Maryland Black Caucus Foundation members close out 29th Annual Legislative Weekend with dinner gala
By AFRO Staff
The Maryland Black Caucus Foundation’s 29th Annual Legislative Weekend closed out on a high note Nov. 23 as members of the Maryland State Senate and House of Delegates came together to honor local changemakers.
The event was held at Maryland’s Live! Casino and Hotel and was led by Mistress of Ceremonies Tameka Harris. The night was truly an evening of Black excellence as multiple awards were given out. Emerick Peace, operating partner for Keller Williams Preferred Properties of Upper Marlboro, Md., received the Outstanding Business Award. The President’s Harriett Tubman Award went to Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, who currently serves as president of Bowie State University. Other legislators, such as Senator of The Year C. Anthony Muse (D-Md-26) and Delegate of The Year Aletheia R. McCaskill (D-Md.-44B) also were recognized.
Ceremonial street signs in Baltimore honor Dru Hill members
By Rishele Ellison
On Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, legendary R and B group Dru Hill, whose soulful harmonies and timeless hits have defined an era of music, received a heartfelt tribute as ceremonial street name signs were unveiled in their honor. Presented by their longtime manager, Kevin Peck, and Director of Digital Media Rishele Ellison, the ceremony took place during the first night of their sold-out weekend at the Bethesda Theater in Bethesda, Md.
The group, celebrated for hits like “In My Bed,” “Tell Me,” “Beauty,” and “How Deep Is Your Love,” was honored with street signs located at the very intersections and neighborhoods that shaped their upbringing and inspired their music.
The honor not only recognizes their contributions to the R and B genre but also cements their legacy in the heart of Baltimore. For decades, Dru Hill has been a source of pride for the city, known for their iconic harmonies and electrifying performances that have influenced generations.
The unveiling at the Bethesda Theater was an emotional moment for the group and their fans, many of whom have followed them since their 1996 debut. The audience erupted in cheers as each member was recognized, celebrating not just their music but their enduring impact on the community.
“This is not just an honor for us as individuals but a tribute to our city, our families, and our fans
who have supported us since day one,” said SisQo, reflecting on the milestone during the ceremony.
Baltimore residents can now find the following ceremonial street signs across the city:
SisQo’s Way – 2000 Block of Hillenwood Rd
Nokio’s Way – North Ave and Eutaw Ave
Scola’s Way – Monroe Ave and Lauretta Ave
Jazz’s Way (not pictured) – Greenmount Ave and North Ave
The street signs symbolize a full-circle moment for Dru Hill, marking their journey from Baltimore streets to international stages while honoring their roots. Fans can now visit these locations, etched with the names of the group members who helped shape the city’s musical history.
Dru Hill continues to tour and create, bridging generations with their timeless sound and unforgettable performances. Their three sold-out Bethesda Theater November shows testify to their enduring influence and the deep connection they share with their fans.
For the city of Baltimore, these signs serve as a reminder of what can be achieved through passion, talent, and perseverance.
Dru Hill will return to Bethesda Theatre for a special New Year’s Eve performance on Dec. 29.
AFRO Photo/ Wesley Robinson Tamir “Nokio” Ruffin (left), Rufus “Skola” Waller, and Mark “Sisqó” Andrews, a few members of the R and B group Dru Hill, hold street signs bestowed upon them. The signs will be visible in Baltimore, where the artists grew up and formed the group.
Mistress of Ceremony Tameka Harris takes to the stage to lead attendees through the evening’s events.
Del. Melissa Wells (D-Md-40), shares the impact of Del. Melvin L. Stukes, whose life was honored at the gala.
Doug Ruffin, of Urban Legacy Filmworks, enjoys the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation Gala dinner gala.
Co-Pastor Dr. Susie C. Owens of Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church delivers the invocation.
Maryland Del. Marlon Amprey (D-Md-40) (left) and his wife, Normandi Amprey, share a moment at the dinner gala.
Rosalind Ellis (left) enjoys the event with her husband Sen. Arthur Ellis (D-Md-28), the deputy majority leader for the Maryland Senate.
Natasha M. Dartigue (left) Maryland Public Defender and Del. Stephanie M. Smith
Quintin and Megan Lathan, owners of the hair and cosmetic supply store, Beauty Plus, enjoy a night on the town.
Haki S. Ammi, a parliamentarian for the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation, arrives dressed to impress.
Senator Antonio Hayes (D-Md40) speaks to gala attendees.
Benjamin Brooks (D-Md-10)(left) stands with long time friend, former Senator Michael Mitchell (D-Md.-39).
Shown here, Sheryl Swoopes (center) with Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (left), and Maryland Speaker of the House Adrienne Jones.
Rev. Jules Dunham Howie serves as an administrator for the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation.
Emerick Peace, operating partner for Keller Williams Preferred Properties of Upper Marlboro, Md., receives the Outstanding Business Award.
Elle Odoi (left) and Yvette Pappoe are owners and operators of Decorelle, LLC.
The President’s Harriett Tubman Award goes to Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, who currently serves as president of Bowie State University.
Delegate of The Year Honoree Aletheia R. McCaskill (D-Md.44B) (center) accepts her award alongside other members of the Maryland Black Caucus. Shown here: Del. Karen Toles(D-Md-25), Del. Melissa Wells (left) (D-Md-40), Del. Stephanie M. Smith (D-Md-45), Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D-Md-20), Del. Marlon Amprey (D-Md-40), Del. Jamila J. Woods (D-Md-28) and Majority Leader Arthur Ellis (D-Md28).
Senator of The Year C. Anthony Muse (D-Md-26) (center) and other members of the Maryland Black Caucus. Shown here, Del. Karen Toles (D-Md-25), Del. Melissa Wells (D-Md-40) (left), Del. Marlon Amprey (D-Md-40) , Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D-Md20), Del. Stephanie M. Smith (D-Md-45), Del. Jamila J. Woods (D-Md-28) and Maryland Senate Majority Leader Arthur Ellis (D-Md-28).
AFRO Photos/James Fields