AUGUST 15-18, 2024
MIDDLEBURG,
VIRGINIA SALAMANDER
WASHINGTON, D.C.
HOTEL BENNETT
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
HALF MOON
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
INNISBROOK
TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA
AUGUST 15-18, 2024
MIDDLEBURG,
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
INNISBROOK
TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA
to The Family Reunion! It’s hard to believe this is our fourth year of hosting the country’s preeminent culinary gathering of color and excellence. We’re thrilled to gather once again to celebrate diversity in the hospitality, culinary and beverage communities with thought-provoking panel discussions, topical cooking demonstrations, inspiring recreational activities, daily “family” meals, and signature evening parties. And, we’ll have an amazing time doing so while raising money for our new charitable philanthropic beneficiary – the Culinary Institute of America.
Each year, we continue to harness the momentum from previous years and embrace the energetic and unique approach which so many of you have enjoyed. This year’s enriching programming is highlighted by some of the industry’s top talent (new and returning), and our incredible array of speakers, chefs and sommeliers will share past lessons and focus on building a better and more inclusive future.
We’d like to thank the hard-working people who make this event a reality, including sponsors, partners, and the Salamander Middleburg service professionals.
And, don’t forget: come as friends and leave as family!
KWAME ONWUACHI
James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Restaurateur, and Author Co-Host, The Family Reunion
SHEILA C. JOHNSON Founder & CEO, Salamander Collection Co-Host, The Family Reunion
DAY 1 THU
5 PM TO 9 PM
AUGUST 15, 2024
MIDDLEBURG TERRACE TENT
Presented by United & Virginia Tourism Corp.
Join us as we kick off the weekend Family Reunion Style. There’s nothing like a BBQ especially a Family BBQ featuring some of the best pitmasters and legendary half smokes you can find.
Featured Chefs: Bryan Furman, Rodney Scott, Virginia Ali, Kevin Bludso, Rasheed Philips, Salamander Culinary Team
9 PM TO 12 AM
Presented by Appleton Estate
HARRIMANS
Late Night Snacks
THE LIBRARY
The Wine Down
THE DISTILLERY AT GOLD CUP
Craft Cocktails by Appleton Estate
Join us inside to keep the party going with live music and late night libations.
10 PM TO 12 AM
“RHYTHM
MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM
*Only Available to All-Access Pass Holders
Join us for a special R&B Night with a surprise guest. Attire - Mint Green
DAY 2
FRI AUGUST 16, 2024
7 AM TO 10 AM GOLD CUP & HARRIMANS
“RISE AND DINE” BREAKFAST
Featured Chefs: Mawa McQueen and Salamander Culinary Team
10:00 AM TO 12:30 PM MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM
Presented by Toast
10:15 AM TO 11:15 AM
The food industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving sector offering numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs, chefs, restaurateurs, and food product innovators. Whether you’re looking to start a food truck, launch a new restaurant concept, develop a food product, or leverage digital platforms for culinary content, let’s explore the diverse pathways to financial success.
Panelist: Mawa McQueen, Carla Hall, Erick Williams
Moderator: Nancy Giles
11:30 AM TO 12:30 PM
A conversation with Adrian Holmes and Caroline Chikezie Holmes led by Jamila Robinson.
12:30 PM TO 3 PM MIDDLEBURG TERRACE TENT
Enjoy a family style lunch under the tent by some of the hardest restaurant reservations to snag.
Featuring: Kwame Onwuachi & Kamat Newman with Tatiana, Gregory Gourdet with Kann and Maya-Camille Broussard
BREAKOUT SESSIONS B BREAKOUT SESSION
*Only Available to All-Access Pass Holders. Pre-registration is required.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM
EQUESTRIAN LAWN
Have you ever wanted to learn about how to make BBQ from the pros? Well, you’re in luck. We have got the best in the game here to walk you through it and feed your soul.
Featured Chefs: Bryan Furman, Rasheed Philips
3:30 PM TO 5 PM ACROSS FROM THE HARRIMANS FIRE PIT
Presented by Appleton Estate
Jerk is a dish of freedom and resilience. Join us in a masterclass on traditional jerk and how that dish came to be, along with the importance of rum to the Jamaican people and its special connection to Jerk.
Featured Chefs: Andre Fowles, Chef Picky and Master Blender, David Morrison
3:30 PM TO 5 PM EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Compete on Chopped! Four teams of up to four will work together to turn mystery ingredients into an incredible dish. Work as a team to mix, chop and cook up a special dish for our chefs to judge.
Judges: Carla Hall, Vallery Lomas, Tiffany Derry
3:30 PM TO 5 PM LIBRARY
Join us as we learn the history and origins of African American cuisine and glean from the acclaimed food historian Dr. Jessica B Harris and knowledge of the culinary diaspora.
Moderator: Jamila Robinson
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MIDDLEBURG 2
Presented by Wells Fargo
Join Wells Fargo’s Kristy Fercho for a panel discussion with entrepreneurs Kerri Harper-Howie and Nicole Harper-Rawlins (McDonalds mega-franchise owners) as well as Dee Robinson (CEO, Good Trouble Spirits Company), as the four successful Black businesswomen unpack how they scaled their business, amassed wealth, developed a social media following, and are building a legacy for the next generation.
3:30 PM TO 6 PM HARRIMANS
Presented by Amazon
It’s not a family reunion without Spades. Choose your partner wisely.
Featured Chefs: JR Robinson, Mashama Bailey, Tavel Bristol-Joseph
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM 3
Join Sommelier Ken Pettus to test your palette’s savoir faire with a blind taste test of reds and whites that may save your wallet or break the bank. Learn which you like best.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM THE GRAND LAWN
Let the games begin. Join the different Family Reunion teams to compete in a series of field games to see which family will reign. Earn bonus points for your Family Team!
Team Captains: Camari Mick, Georgiana Viou, Pierre Serrao, Shorne Benjamin
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MEET AT GAZEBO
Captain: Charlie Mitchell
3:30 PM TO 5 PM SALAMANDER MOVEMENT STUDIO
Reset for the evening activities with yoga lead by Matthew Lyons.
7 PM TO 10 PM MIDDLEBURG TERRACE TENT
Presented by Appleton Estate
Take a trip to the dirty south. Taste the soul food and feel the funk!
Featured Chefs: Adrienne Cheatham, Brian Jupiter, Damarr Brown, David Thomas, Douglass Williams, Preston Clark, Lamar Moore, Melba Wilson, Millie Peartree, Nyesha Arrington, Tonya Thomas, Salamander Culinary Team
10 PM TO 12 AM HARRIMANS
Late Night Snacks
THE LIBRARY
AFTERGLOW
Presented by Appleton Estate
THE DISTILLERY AT GOLD CUP
Craft Cocktails by Appleton Estate
The Wine Down DAY 3 SAT AUGUST 17, 2024
7 AM TO 10 AM HARRIMANS & GOLD CUP
Featured Chefs: Mawa McQueen, Salamander Culinary Team
10:00 AM TO 12:30 PM MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM
Presented by Wells Fargo
10:15 AM TO 11:15 AM
Our legacies impact and encourage the path taken by future generations, but at what cost to us?
Panelist: Jamila Robinson, Preston Clark, Alexander Smalls
Moderator: Nina Oduro
11:30 AM TO 12:30 PM
A conversation with Sheila Johnson led by Nancy Giles.
12:30 PM TO 3 PM MIDDLEBURG TERRACE TENT
Enjoy a family style lunch under the tent by some of the hardest restaurant reservations to snag.
Featuring: Kwame Onwuachi & Martel Stone with Dōgon, Erick Williams & chef friends with Virtue and Camari Mick
B BREAKOUT SESSION
*Only Available to All-Access Pass Holders. Pre-registration is required.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM EQUESTRIAN LAWN
BBQ 101
Have you ever wanted to learn about how to make BBQ from the pros? Well you’re in luck. We have got the best in the game here to walk you through it and feed your soul.
Featured Chefs: Rodney Scott and Kevin Bludso B
3:30 PM TO 5 PM ACROSS FROM THE HARRIMANS FIRE PIT
Presented by Appleton Estate
Jerk is a dish of freedom and resilience. Join us in a masterclass on traditional jerk and how that dish came to be, along with the importance of rum to the Jamaican people and its special connection to Jerk.
Featured Chefs: Andre Fowles, Gregory Gourdet and Master Blender, David Morrison B
3:30 PM TO 5 PM EQUESTRIAN CENTER
Compete on Chopped! Four teams of up to four will work together to turn mystery ingredients into an incredible dish. Work as a team to mix, chop and cook up a special dish for our chefs to judge.
Judges: Carla Hall, Melba Wilson
3:30 PM TO 5 PM CULINARY GARDEN TENT
Presented by Food & Wine
Join us for a conversation on the origins of rice in America with Alexander Smalls,George McCalman, and Serigne Mbaye led by Hunter Lewis, Editor in Chief, Food & Wine
3:30 PM TO 6 PM HARRIMANS
Presented by Amazon
It’s not a family reunion without Spades. Choose your partner wisely. Featured Chefs: Lamar Moore, Nyesha Arrington
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM 1
Embrace the flavors of the island and participate in a competitive, creative cocktail-making session with one of Appleton’s master blenders for a chance to win Appleton Estate’s Signature Rum.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM
BALLROOM 2
Presented by Wells Fargo
Following a 2025 financial forecast presentation to help you shield your business from economic headwinds, join Salamander Collection founder & CEO, Sheila Johnson, and Wells Fargo executive, Gigi Dixon for a fireside chat on the importance of women’s financial independence and preparedness. Be there as they launch a new Women’s Empowerment Initiative designed to equip women with the resources and knowledge to bet on themselves, overcome imposter syndrome and accomplish their goals.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MIDDLEBURG BALLROOM 3
Join us to meet the winemakers behind some of the best Black-owned wines from the region. Listen to their stories, bring their incredible liquid to your lips, and cast your vote to help us crown the Family Reunion’s favorite wine this year.
3:30 PM TO 5 PM THE GRAND LAWN
Let the games begin. Join the different Family Reunion teams to compete in a series of field games to see which family will reign. Earn bonus points for your Family Team!
Team Captains: Adrienne Cheatham, Brian Jupiter, Douglass Williams, Maya-Camille Broussard
3:30 PM TO 5 PM MEET AT GAZEBO
ZIP-LINING
Captain: David & Tonya Thomas
2 PM TO 3:30 PM
5 PM TO 6:30 PM
SALAMANDER MOVEMENT STUDIO
Pre-registration is required.
Find balance and reset for the evening activities with the healing effects of a sound bath lead by Matthew Lyons.
7 PM TO 10 PM
MIDDLEBURG TERRACE TENT
Presented by Wells Fargo
It’s not The Family Reunion without our signature block party. Great food, a special Lifetime Achievement Award presentation, and the DJ spinning all night. Come dressed in nostalgic 90’s gear, and party like it’s 1999.
Featured Chefs: Charlie Mitchell, Georgiana Viou, JR Robinson, Mashama Bailey, Chef Picky, Pierre Serrao, Serigne Mbaye, Shorne Benjamin, Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Tiffany Derry, Vallery Lomas, Salamander Culinary Team
HARRIMANS
Late Night Snacks
THE DISTILLERY AT GOLD CUP Craft Cocktails by Appleton Estate THE LIBRARY The Wine Down
Late Night Brunch with Ghetto Gastro.
10 PM TO 12 AM DAY 4 SUN AUGUST 18, 2024
10 AM TO 10:30 AM
MIDDELBURG TERRACE TENT
Let’s all gather in gratitude as we have made it through another year. It’s time to say our farewells and be thankful for what we have.
A bold new design begs for adventure while a tech-forward, drivercentric cabin encourages greatness from within. Just one glance at the All-New Lexus GX will inspire next-level joy. It’s up to you to live up to it.
Celebrate your heritage and discover Black history and culture in Portugal, Egypt, France or Colombia on one of AmaWaterways’ unforgettable Soulful Experiences river cruises. Embrace the power of community while exploring the hidden history of the African diaspora with itinerary-exclusive excursions, such as a culturally immersive visit to a Nubian village in Egypt, and an enlightening Josephine Baker tour in Paris. Plus, enjoy an exquisite, specially curated Juneteenth-inspired menu on every Soulful Experiences departure
Enticing Douro
November 13-23, 2024 OR November 11-21, 2025
3 nights pre-cruise Lisbon, 7-night Douro River cruise roundtrip from Porto
Secrets of Egypt & the Nile
May 14-25, 2025
4 nights pre-cruise Cairo, 7-night Nile River cruise roundtrip from Luxor, 1-night post-cruise Cairo Accompanied by an expert Egyptologist throughout your journey!
Colors of Provence
August 21-31, 2025
7-night Arles to Lyon river cruise, 3 nights post-cruise Paris
Magic of Colombia
October 18-25, 2025
7-night Barranquilla to Cartagena river cruise
Optional: 3 nights pre-cruise Medellín
Spacious accommodations in an elegantly appointed riverview stateroom or suite, most with signature view-enhancing twin balconies
Exquisite locally sourced food and wine at every meal
Daily complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hour
Nightly onboard entertainment
The services of an extraordinary Cruise Manager throughout your journey
We also welcome you to join existing groups on the following standard river cruise departures:
Enticing Douro
August 26-September 2, 2025
Someday Vacations | For reservations, please call: Hazel Boone (443) 212-8106
Charms of the Mekong
August 3-10, 2026
Travel with Sparkle | For reservations, please call: Nadia Henry (201) 688-7478 or email travelwithsparkle@gmail.com
Contact your preferred travel advisor or call 800.626.0126 to reserve your Soulful Experience river cruise today!
ADRIENNE CHEATHAM
Chef
& Author
CHEFADRIENNECHEATHAM
James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Restaurateur and The Family Reunion’s 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient ASMALLS777
Chef, 3x Food Network “Chopped” Champion, Miss Lily’s CHEFFOWLES
Chef and Owner of Frontier, Ina Mae Tavern, Jup’s Soup, and Jup’s Chicken Coop CHEFJUP
BRYAN FURMAN
Pitmaster, Chef, Owner, Bryan Furman BBQ BS_PITMASTER
Executive Pastry Chef, The Musket Room & Raf’s CAMARI_MICK
CARLA HALL
Chef, Restaurateur, Author CARLAPHALL
CHARLIE MITCHELL
Executive Chef & Partner at Clover Hill CHUCKGOOD CAMARI MICK
DAMAAR BROWN
Chef de Cuisine Virtue
Restaurant & Bar and Top This Mac N’ Cheese BROWNDAMARR
DAVID MORRISON
Deputy Master Blender, Appleton Estate Jamaican Rum BLENDWITHDAVID
DAVID THOMAS
Executive Chef & Partner, H3irloom Food Group CHEF_DKT
DOUGLASS WILLIAMS
Chef/Owner, MIDA South End, MIDA Newton, APIZZA Boston MIDABOSTON
Food Historian, Award-Winning Author, Journalist DRJESSICABHARRIS
Chef & Owner of Virtue Restaurant, Mustard Seed Kitchen, Daisy’s Po-Boy & Tavern, and Top This Mac N’ Cheese CHEFERICKWILLIAMS
GEORGIANA VIOU
Chef at ROUGE restaurant in Nimes
GEORGIANA _VIOU
GHETTO GASTRO
Culinary Collection
GHETTOGASTRO
Chef and Founder - Kann and Sousòl | Author, Everyone’s Table: Global Recipes for Modern Health 2022 James Beard Award Winner and 2023 James Beard Award Winner for Best New Restaurant GG30000
Food Media Leader and Food Editor, Philadelphia Inquirer
JAMILAROBINSON
Chef & Owner, Kitchencray MRCHEFFITO
Chef de Cuisine, Tatiana NVJMVHMUHVMMVD
KEN PETTUS
Founder, Unwine101 KENPLUSH
KEVIN BLUDSO
James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Restaurateur, TV
Personality, Author KEVINBLUDSOBBQ
KWAME ONWUACHI
James Beard Award-Winning Chef, Restaurateur, and Author CHEFKWAMEONWUACHI
LAMAR MOORE
Executive Chef, Bronzeville Winery CHEF_ LJM
Chef de Cuisine, Dōgon CHEFMARTELSTONE
Co-Founder & Exec Chef, Grey Spaces MASHAMABAILEY
Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Healing Guide MATTHEWDLYONS
Chef and Owner McQueen
Hospitality, Mawa’s Kitchen, Mawita, The Crepe Shack, Mawa’s GrainFreeNola MAWAMCQUEEN
Chef and Owner, Justice of the Pies MAYACAMILLEBROUSSARD
MELBA WILSON
Chef, Restaurateur, Author MELBASHARLEM
Actor, Podcast Host, and Emmy-Award Winning Contributor to CBS News Sunday Morning NGILESNY
Co-founder, Dine Diaspora and Black Women in Food Initiative NINAODURO
NYESHA JOYCE ARRINGTON
Chef and TV Personality, Next Level Chef NYESHAJOYCE
Owner of Picky Eaters Restaurant, Ariapita Restaurant and Chef Picky Events and Catering CHEFPICKY_
Chef + Entreprenuer CHEFP
Executive Chef and Culinary Director of Lure Fishbar CHEFPRESTONCLARK
RASHEED PHILIPS
Pitmaster, TV Personality, Philanthropist, Owner of Philips Barbeque Co. RASHEEDPHILIPS
RODNEY SCOTT
James Beard Award-Winning Chef and Pitmaster Founder & Owner, Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ PITMASTERRODNEYSCOTT
SERIGNE MBAYE
Chef SERIGNEMBAYE_
Culinary Artist, Owner of Fat Fowl NYC CHEFSHORNE
Pastry Chef and Partner at Emmer & Rye, Hestia, Kalimotxo, Henbit, TLV and Canje TAVEL19
Chef/Owner at Roots Southern
Table, Roots Chicken Shak, Radici and Shef Spice MASTERCHEFTD
Executive Pastry Chef & Partner, H3irloom Food Group LADYTTHOMAS77
Baker, Author and Winner of Great American Baking Show FOODIEINNEWYORK
VIRGINIA ALI
Chef and Founder, Ben’s
Bowl BENSEVERYTHING
When it comes to your event, INSPIRE is with you every step of the way. Whether you are planning a board meeting, breakout meeting or require full event production we have the expertise and experience to make your event a success. From setup & teardown to concept & creative we are here to make your event exceptional.
WE ASPIRE TO INSPIRE.
INSPIRE’s creative and technical teams are focused on providing the most inspiring production solutions, flawless execution and unparalleled customer care. We are your inhouse hospitality partner, we have the team and equipment to handle your event, no matter the scale or complexity. Contact us for your next event and let us bring your vision to life.
Reserve your appointment for men’s cuts and shaves, women’s hair, styling, make up, and more, to show off your style.
Visit the boutique in the Cooking Studio for a curated selection of featured talent books, apparel, accessories, and more.
Check out the Middleburg Terrace Tent throughout the event for all things Family Reunion. Find your new favorite shirt, hoodie, or hat and celebrate in Family Reunion fashion all weekend long.
#TheFamilyReunion
It all started with us. Black culture in America began in Virginia when the first enslaved Africans arrived more than 400 years ago. They brought their foods, traditions, and seasoning blends to the English colonies, sparking a culinary revolution that continues to evolve in Virginia and throughout the country. Well-known Virginians like James Hemmings and Edna Lewis popularized recipes that not only solidified the Commonwealth as a key player in Southern cuisine but have become cornerstone dishes of family reunions. These originated to reunite the formerly enslaved with the relatives they were separated from. The Family Reunion at the Salamander Middleburg is an ode to this history and a celebration of connection, cuisine, and community.
During your time in Virginia, discover Black-owned restaurants and historic spots around the state with this QR code.
CENTRAL VIRGINIA
• Penny’s Wine Shop, Richmond
• MarieBette Bakery, Charlottesville
• Barb’s Dream Hut, Lynchburg
• Jackson Ward, Richmond - Black Wall Street
• Monticello, Charlottesville
Chef James Hemmings popularized Southern dishes
• Birthplace of Edna Lewis, Orange
• Robert Russa Moton Museum, Farmville Part of Brown v Board of Education Case, part of US Civil Rights Trail
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
• Delaplane Cellars, Delaplane
• Foode, Fredericksburg
• Fredericksburg - First stop on Freedom Rides, Trail to Freedom
• Alexandria Black History Museum
• Salamander, Middleburg
EASTERN SHORE
• Kendall’s Kountry Kitchen, Onley
VIRGINIA MOUNTAINS
• Caribbica Soul, Roanoke
• Historic Gainsboro Neighborhood, Roanoke
SOUTHWEST VIRGINIABLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS
• Union 41, Bristol
COASTAL VIRGINIAHAMPTON ROADS
• Mango Mangeaux, Hampton
• Cobalt Grille, Virginia Beach
• Tipsy Bean, Williamsburg
• Emancipation Oak, Hampton
First Southern Reading of Emancipation Proclamation
• Fort Monroe, Hampton
First enslaved Africans arrived in English colonies
SHENANDOAH VALLEY
• Merge Coffee Co, Harrisonburg
Scan to place your bid before the auction closes at 10:00 PM ET on Sunday, August 18.
Thank you to all of our sponsors. Proceeds benefit the Culinary Institute of America.
Share your experience and follow along: @chefkwameonwuachi | @salamanderresort | @salamanderhotels View Event Schedule