Special Edition Winter Issue 2022 - Suite Love & Black Excellence

C O N C I E R G E

M A G A Z I N E

Suite Life SoCal

BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPECIAL EDITION

The History of Black Excellence

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BUSINESSES

Suite Love & Black Excellence I SS U E

Changing of the Guard SARAH HARRIS NAMED BBA INTERIM PRESIDENT & CEO

Farr’s best

Causes

A Celebration ofBlack Love

Andre’ & Jay SPECIAL EDITION 2022 $7.95 US

Farr

Contents

CONTENTS

9 COVER FEATURE

When The Stars Align The Union of Jay Brown and André Farr STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHER PHARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY 6 | Heritage Suite The History of Black Excellence: 5 Examples of Black Brilliance, Black Excellence & Black Love Black History shines through successful Southern California Black-owned businesses. + STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON 9 | Life & Style When the Stars Align: The Union of Jay Brown & André Farr Before Jay Brown and André Farr officially joined in holy matrimony, Suite Life SoCal had the opportunity to have a candid conversation with the bride and groom about their journey, wedding plans, and the future. + STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON + PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY 19 | SuiteCauses Samone Anderson: Empowered Students Empower Students Samone Anderson, fourth-year college student at the University of California, Los Angeles, has created much change for the Black community since her arrival. From her advocacy for the Black Bruin Resource Center (BBRC) to the demands of change on behalf of Chancellor Gene Block, Anderson persists to hold administration accountable for the neglect and mismanagement of her community. + STORY BY KAMEA TAYLOR 22 | SuiteCauses Farr's Best – Better Together: #1 Urban Family The spirit of Black excellence and Black brilliance is evident in Farr's Best as they share the story of what it looks like when family and community work together to change the world. + STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON 25 | SuiteBiz Changing of the Guard: Sarah Harris takes the helm as the BBA's President & CEO We speak with Publisher-in-Chief Sarah Harris on the experience of working with the legendary President and CEO of the Black Business Association (BBA), Earl “Skip” Cooper II, for over twenty years and becoming his successor as the first woman President & CEO in the organization's history. Harris gives her thoughts on the future of the BBA and what's on the docket for 2022. + STORY BY EDDIE TRUJILLO GRIJALVA + PHOTOGRAPHY BY XAVIER HARRIS Credits Head Makeup: Drini Marie Makeup Assistant: Brittany Scott Hair: Kiyah Wright Dress: Lili Bridals Veil: Julie Harris Flowers: Celebrate Rentals: Bright & Harry's Rental Venue: Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey Lighting: The Lighter Side Linen: Luxe Linen Cake: Joanie Leighs Cakes

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Wedding Coordinator: Natalie Sofer Wedding Planner & Designer: Jay Farr Photography & Videography: Pharris Photography DJ & MC: Brian Henry DJ & MC: Dj Shorty Smooth Performances: MAJOR. “This Is Why I Love You” Roniece Levias “The Lord's Prayer” Rashaad Brown “So High” Ken Meredith (Trumpet)

from the PUBLISHER and EDITOR C O N C I E R G E

M A G A Z I N E

Suite Life SoCal

SPECIAL EDITION VOLUME 4, NUMBER 2 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

PUBLISHER-IN-CHIEF

Sarah R. Harris

MANAGING EDITOR Angela Jackson, ABD, MS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Sarah R. Harris

TECH PR SALES MANAGER

Lela Christine Lance Washington

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Kennedy Duvall

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kamea Taylor Eddie Trujillo Grijalva CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Pharris Photography Xavier Harris THANK YOU TO OUR ADVERTISERS Angela Rena & CO Anthony Hemingway Productions Bilionair Carter Black Business Association Derrick Faison Foundation Distinguished Gentlemen of EMG Farr's Best Farr's Best Women's Minitry MAJOR. Quintin E. Primo III, Capri

Something Suite, Something Special!

Leave it to Suite Life SoCal magazine to venture toward something new during a pandemic. As two entrepreneurs who sit at the forefront of the magazine; the creative visionary and loyal cheerleader, we had 3 stories that couldn't wait for the Spring issue. As a result, we decided to create a special issue to celebrate Black History Month which highlights Black Love, Black Excellence, and Black Brilliance.

This issue has God's hands all over it. Covering the majestically spiritlled Jay Brown and André Farr wedding, shouting out the changing of the guard with our new Black Business Association interim president, Sarah Harris, and saluting the chair of UCLA's Afrikan Student Union, Samone Anderson, for her tenacity and strength to take on UCLA administrators alongside her peers while standing on the backs of our ancestors who paved the way for her voice to reverberate in the halls of Murphy where the administration often sits too comfortably.

While this issue is a condensed version of what our readers normally receive, it holds the same impact and serves to empower and inspire you to live a Suite Life.

Stay Suite,

SPRING 2022 SUSTAINABLE LIVING ISSUE ADVERTISEMENT DEADLINE: MARCH 18, 2022 For sales, contact Lance Washington at: Phone: 323.708.6427 Email: lwashington@suitelifesocal.com For mailings, please send to: Address: 6709 La Tijera Blvd, #625, LA, CA 90045 Visit us online: www.suitelifesocal.com

Subscribe Today!

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2 years $49 (8 issues)

(Price includes shipping & handling.)

Pay online at: suitelifesocal.com

Sarah R. Harris

Angela Jackson, ABD, MS

Publisher-in-Chief

Managing Editor

@suitelifesocal suitelifesocal.com

#suitelifesocal

@ajgrateful2be

@_angelarena

authorangelarena.com

Suite Life SoCal magazine is published quarterly. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Letters to the publisher are welcomed. Email submissions to suitelifesocal@gmail.com. © 2022 SuiteLifeMedia

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The Black Business Association announces the Retirement of its longtime President & CEO,

Earl “Skip” Cooper, II and welcomes the new Interim President & CEO

Sarah R. Harris A tribute presentation in August 2022 honoring “Skip” will be announced soon.

Stay tuned for details. Follow us at: @BlackBusinessAssociation @black_business_association

BBALA.org

Est. 1970

A New Year. A New BBA.

Heritage Suite

The Hiory of Black Excellence

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Examples of Black Brilliance, Black Excellence & Black Love

I

f I had to choose one word to describe Black History, it would be “triumphant.” The story of Black people is a story of Black excellence, Black Pride, and Black Love. Despite America’s racist roots and systems, Black people have overcome and continue to persevere. Every issue of Suite Life SoCal magazine chronicles this truth.

In this special edition on Black Brilliance, Black Excellence, and Black Love Suite Life SoCal looks at the history of Black success in California through the lens of Black-owned businesses that have persevered and who have for decades provided services to Southern Californians.

Business Brilliance Despite the historical attempt to tear down condence in Black-owned businesses, they are still created and sustained with community support and assistance from organizations like the Black Business Association. Today there are many well-established Black-owned businesses in every industry.

In Southern California, one business at the top of my mind, Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs is a Blackowned law rm established in 1943 by a former Superior Court Judge, the late Earl C. Broady. In 1980 the law rm became Ivie & McNeill after two partners received their judicial appointments. The rm expanded again in 1991 to become Ivie McNeill & Wyatt and once again in 2019 when it became Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs.

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STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON PHOTO: IDA B. WELLS

The rm is the largest Black-owned rm in California.

Ivie McNeill, Wyatt Purcell & Diggs’ years of Black excellence are due to their “hands-on” approach, commitment to professionalism, and care of clients. The rm is also known for its commitment to the community by raising money through its annual golf tournament gala to raise funds to support students. The golf tournament is held in honor of its cofounder, the late Robert H. McNeill Jr. To connect with Ivie McNeill, Wyatt Purcell & Diggs, visit their website at imwlaw.com.

Excellence in Education The eld of education often goes unnoticed. There has been a push to recognize teachers, but Black-owned businesses like New World Education (NWE), founded by Education & Community Planning Consultant, Mandle Kayise in 2000, barely get recognized but signicantly impact students' lives.

These types of organizations ll the gaps that educational institutions miss. New World Education is one such organization.

New World Education focuses on college access, student retention, and student leadership development. Through workshops, programs, and workshop series NWE empowers students to advocate for themselves and help them navigate the educational landscape. In addition, it offers professional staff training and curriculum and program development for college access.

For more than twenty years, NWE has serviced students and staff at colleges like the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Cal Poly Pomona, and Cerritos College. For more information about New Word Education, contact Kayise at newworlded.com.

For The Love of Community Since the Black Press is busy following the story and reporting to our communities, not much light is shined on the news outlets that have committed to ensuring the Black voice is heard, that Black people are informed, and the Black community is uplifted. Three weekly news outlets that have been consistently publishing weekly for decades are the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint (1960) - Dr. John Warren, Black Voice News (BVN) (1972) - Dr. Paulette Brown-Hinds, and the Los Angeles Sentinel (1933) - Danny Bakewell Sr. Each of these newspapers committed to the communities they serve. The publishers each sacrice to publish weekly for the love of the community. According to the BVN website, “As a newspaper that publishes in the spirit of the Black Press, the Black Voice News has given a voice to the voiceless and shined a light on systemic inequities and disparities since 1972.”

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint states the publishers have “worked diligently with the community to make a publication that the people want.” While the newspaper covers news to a diverse market, they cover everything from the African American perspective. The Voice & Viewpoint is known for recognizing extraordinary everyday people making a difference in the community.

The Los Angeles Sentinel is just ten years shy of beginning the planning for its centennial.

The owner is known for bringing the community together through publication and events. He is a well-known activist, and like all the publishers, he understands the power of the word and the role of media.

Finally, speaking for all Black publications, it takes the community's full support to have a successful news outlet. The publishers commit to the community, and the community must consistently support these news outlets. Through Black Brilliance, Black Excellence, & Black Love, the above three outlets found a way to express dedication to the people, and the community responded with their ongoing support. +

Salutes

Sarah Harris as the newly appointed Interim President of the Black Business Association.

Looking forward to partnering with the BBA under your leadership to ensure the BBA's great legacy is continued.

Author Angela Rena authorangelarena.com SUITELIFESOCAL.COM | SPECIAL EDITION 2022

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Life & Style

Suite Life CONCIERGE MAGAZINE

SoCal

SPECIAL EDITION 2022

A Celebration ofBlack Love

André & Jay FARR

Life & Style | LOVE

When the Stars Align The Union of Jay Brown and André Farr STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHARRIS PHOTOGRAPHY

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he photos in this magazine represent the joy, love, and strength of a couple who recognizes their union was ordained from the beginning of time. Suite Life SoCal is honored to highlight Jay & André Farr as an example of Black Love, Black Excellence, and Black Brilliance.

When I sat down to meet with Jay Brown and André Farr virtually, I was greeted with smiles and strength from the bride and groom. I immediately recognized that I was in the presence of a couple who had become one despite their wedding being two weeks away.

SUITELIFESOCAL.COM | SPECIAL EDITION 2022

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Life & Style | LOVE

I settled into my seat with great anticipation, looking forward to hearing their love story. As Brown shared how she and Farr met by chance, I listened and smiled, mirroring the joy emitted as she spoke.

"Before I met André, I was in a girl group. I realized it was not for me. I wanted to understand the back business of the entertainment industry. I went on a lunch break in the library area of the studio we were in, and I heard André talking to two young men about entrepreneurship, micro-market economy, and delayed gratication."

Brown's interests peaked, and after Farr nished, she did something uncharacteristic of herself and approached him after he was nished saying, "I heard what you were talking about with the DRE Program (Disciplined Respected Entrepreneurs Program), and if you need an assistant or an intern, I am willing because I really want to lear n the business side of entertainment."

André explained that he refused the request at rst; sharing his internship was challenging, and it was very laborious at the time. Brown was persistent, and eventually, Farr decided to give her a chance. "It turned out that she was the best intern and assistant I ever had, and now she's the president of all of my companies," Farr afrmed as Brown smiled in the background.

As I was listening to the two love birds, I envisioned a complicated combination lock that miraculously unlocked with each act of obedience. Brown stepped outside of her comfort zone to introduce herself and inquire about the DRE Program, which opened Farrs' heart to say “yes” to Brown's request eventually, and the rest is history.

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I shared my vision with Farr and his bride; he replied, "God preordained our relationship. When you get in alignment with your assignment, you end up nding what you have always sought. It is easy when you are in alignment with God." I grinned and agreed; Brown sat with a big smile and quietly soaked in the words of her future husband. She gleaned quiet condence, and Farr exhibited unshakable faith.

It's easy to see how much Farr and Brown are in love once you are in their presence. I wanted to know more about what made them so condent in their love. Farr did not leave me in suspense. "We've been knowing each other for 12 years. I'm not marrying a stranger. I am marrying my best friend, for real." Just as one would expect, Jay joined in, and they both said, "For real, for real," in unison, wearing winning smiles that lled the screen.

As all conversations with Farr and I go, we went deep. I was so excited to write this article on these two because their union is an excellent example of Black Love. Historically, Black families and Black love have been under attack. In our interview, Farr shared his insight on why Black Love is still challenged.

SUITELIFESOCAL.COM | SPECIAL EDITION 2022

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Life & Style | LOVE

“The dysfunction that came from generations of slavery are still found today. Emasculated men, men who are insecure and that try to get their way by force. Women who don't realize the best way to a man is by supporting him. Understanding the truth is if you want your man to be the best he can be, you have to raise your standard; you have to make him raise his. That is what a real woman does."

Farr not only shared his insight, but he offered a path to changing the trajectory. "A lot of this redening of who we are, really cursing the generational illness of the effects of slavery is something that you have to do every single day. It's not something that you do just on Thursday and expect something to change.

You have to do this every day."

Furthermore, "What we have to do as a people is show up every day consistently, every single day and then all of the sudden they'll start to learn not by what we say because it's not about what you say, it's about what you do. That's concrete. It's your actions, not your words," Farr concluded.

And just as it got a little heavy, Farr looks at me and says, "You can go ahead and tell her (Jay) the selling point for this whole article." He turns to Brown and says, "Babe, I agreed to do a (use your imagination) for the magazine. We all break out laughing as Brown res back, "You know what, people will get to see the greatness I've been seeing for so long." And almost matter of factly, Farr says, "You have to have humor."

As our time together continued, I was humbled to be in the presence of this beautiful blissful couple. But before our time ended, I had to ask how they managed to persevere in planning a wedding during the pandemic.

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"Trying to plan a wedding through a pandemic, I wouldn't recommend it at all," Brown said as she shook her head. Farr and Brown planned their wedding three times due to COVID-19.

Brown shared how the latest variant, the Omicron variant caused her some concern, but when she learned it was more like a bad cold, she felt comfortable moving forward with their plans to marry on January 15, 2022.

Cool as a cucumber, Farr added, "I look at it as proceed with caution and whatever the Lord wants to happen that's what will happen. I just put all my trust in Him. I stopped putting my trust in men. Man will always let you down. Put your trust in God and relax through it. Whatever it is going to be, it's going to be great."

Standing by a man with extreme assurance in God, there was no room for a "bridezilla," but that doesn't mean that Brown can't relate to why brides can turn into bridezillas after the many ups and downs. In short, Brown and Farr found that many people are ready to take advantage of the bride because she is dealing with a myriad of emotions. As event planners and entrepreneurs, the couple was determined not to be taken advantage of by "professionals" who ask for your budget before they ask what your needs are for your wedding.

Brown found the perfect dress, a referral from Niecy Nash through their nail tech led her to a Black custom veil maker who adorned her crown. Through faith, grace, and love, the couple was assured that their nuptials would come off without a hitch under the watchful eye of a faithful God.

SUITELIFESOCAL.COM | SPECIAL EDITION 2022

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Life & Style | LOVE

Wedding Day Bliss

Special Guest MAJOR. singing "This Is Why I Love You"

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I arrived at the Brown and Farr wedding held at the Ritz Carlton in Marina del Rey with great expectation. I didn't even ponder the tsunami warning or the clouds that hovered over the garden wedding. While there was a brief drizzle, I had spent signicant time in our interview, and I knew that God was in the midst.

As I took my seat, I recognized the traditional owers over the gazebo, the smiling expectant guest, and the calmness of everyone involved in making the wedding beautiful. Farr entered to music t for a put-together groom preparing to spend his life with his bride while displaying his more t and lean stature and commitment to the Farr's Best Chairman's Challenge, which challenged participants for 100 days to strive for more excellent health. His groom's men arrived with supportive struts to the altar, followed by the dazzling ring bearer.

While the men were dashing, all guests awaited the bride.

The bridesmaids entered in beautiful dresses, which made a statement and alerted the guest that the lady of the day was nearby. Once the bridesmaids were in place, The adorable ower girl paved a beautiful trail of roses for the bride to follow.

The sound of a trumpet played near the top of the staircase to alert the guest and grab their attention. The guests were alerted; the bride was preparing her entrance. Every head had turned by the trumpet's call as the bride began her walk to meet her groom. As she started walking, the song "This Is Why I Love You" began.

The bride walked down the steps as everyone awaited her to approach the altar. She walked down the aisle as the guest gawked and smiled in amazement. Once the bride made it to the altar, to my surprise, I noticed that the recording artist, MAJOR., was singing the song that I thought was being played on an electronic device. As if the moment could not be more memorable, MAJOR. personalized the song with the bride and groom's names declaring their love for one another.

As the wedding began, the pastor started ofciating by recognizing that the clouds represented the presence of God. As the ceremony progressed, while Rashad Brown beautifully sang, "So High," 7 doves miraculously appeared and ew high above the gazebo to conrm what the pastor shared and declared the depths and heights of the bride and groom's union. At that moment, I knew I wasn't just at a wedding but experiencing an ordained moment, and that Suite Life SoCal was a part of something extraordinary.

At last, it was time for the two friends who became lovers to exchange their vows before God, family, & friends. The groom declared, "You are my good thing created for me." while the bride proclaimed, "I love you as I love myself; you are my whole heart." As the bride and groom exchanged vows, hearts were inspired.

The pandemic may have cut the guest list, but the beauty and signicance of the Farr wedding were not to be denied.

Indeed, Black Brilliance was entirely on display with the love and support of many great men and women who attended and participated in the Farr wedding.

Enjoy the photos displayed, highlighting the Brown/Farr wedding and the reception. +

SCauses uite

Suite Life CONCIERGE MAGAZINE

SPECIAL EDITION 2022

Samone Anderson STUDENT LEADERSHIP UCLA AFRIKAN STUDENT UNION

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Farr’s Best Better Together Featuring Frank E. Brady Dr. Shekena Farr Moore

Monte S. Brooks Dr. Lenora Levias

SoCal

Khalid David Bobby Robinson, ESQ.

SuiteCauses

Empowered Students Empower Students UCLA ASU CHAIR SAMONE ANDERSON HOLDS ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNTABLE STORY BY KAMEA TAYLOR PHOTOS COURTESY OF UCLA AFRIKAN STUDENT UNION

T

hrough activism, scholarship, and service, student leadership can empower and inuence others towards a greater goal. And when spearheaded by those equipped to inuence and guide, one can only begin to imagine the strides towards reform. Who is this person, you may ask? Who obtains the qualities of a leader, motivator, and activist? The answer to your question is a woman by the name of Samone Anderson. From Richmond, California, and a current fourth-year student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Anderson has connected and carved out spaces for Black Bruins in hopes to “see the community in a better state than what it was when [she] got there.”

Although assimilating to her role as the Community Service Coordinator, Anderson knew that her community deserved much more. After her recent success in becoming the Afrikan Student Union’s (ASU) Chairperson, the hurdle to creating a safe space for Black students became one of many challenges.

After seven years of persistence and determination and an extra push from the racial unrest and Black Lives Matter protests during Summer 2020, Black students at UCLA were granted the opportunity to have a Black Bruin Resource Center (BBRC). In hopes to develop community, encourage leadership, and foster relationships, this space serves the cultural and social needs of the community from retention efforts, programs, and activities to build and celebrate the all-inclusive African diaspora. However, the utilization of the center has not been as easy as it seems.

Aside from these accomplishments, the greatest obstacle has been the advocacy for ASU’s programs to be rehoused in the BBRC since their withdrawal from the UCLA Community Programs Ofce (CPO) on November 18th, 2021. Anderson shares, “It was heartbreaking to cut a ribbon this Fall for projects that are not being housed.” It comes as no surprise that the hostile and toxic work environment from staff members of the CPO provoked such a decision. She afrms, “The space initially created by Black students is now the most anti-Black environment on campus today.” From the mishandling of student leadership funds, verbal and physical harassment within the workplace (mainly towards Black women) to the violations and

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LOS ANGELES, CA

“

The “collective quest for liberation…,” as Anderson puts it, “...is vital in the fight for our Black legacy.” manipulations of public policy, CPO is now facing the repercussions of terrorizing the livelihood of Black-student workers and activists.

Concerning such disappointments, Chancellor Gene Block and Vice-Chancellor Monroe Gordon’s tremendous lack of efforts to mend and repair this issue has left many of ASU’s vital projects from being utilized by Black students within the BBRC. Anderson states, “...such lack of involvement is expected, as many turn a blind eye to the mismanagement of nances when it’s meant to be utilized by students of color,” and she adds, “But I intend to hold Gene Block accountable to that.”

With the service disruptions of the Afrikan Education Project (AEP), Students Heightening Academic Performance through Education (SHAPE), and the Academic Supports Program (ASP), Anderson has been ghting for “the university to see the value of student-initiated resources.”

Though this becomes an ongoing battle, Anderson persists in being relentless in her efforts and intentions to fulll the demands of ASU and hold Gene Block accountable. Following

@blackbruins | @unstoppable_21

these demands, as well as the solidarity amongst the Mother Org Coalition (MO), it is clear ASU will not enable administrators to oppress and endanger the safety of students of color nor permit them to neglect their responsibility to protect and support the physical and mental well-being and educational journeys of Black Bruins.

Since then, Anderson has exuded pride and hope in her community to foster such spaces for those within the Afrikan diaspora. The “collective quest for liberation…,” as Anderson puts it, “...is vital in the ght for our Black legacy.” This Black legacy encompasses the projects and programs that have brought Black students to the forefront of retention and access. With AEP catering to the youth in elementary and middle school, SHAPE providing retention and resources for high school students, and ASP providing counseling for Black Bruins, this lineage of opportunities to higher education is nally being seen through the Black lens.

It remains true to Anderson that the importance of such activism, advocacy, and demands for change inspires other students to take the initiative and leadership in their communities. She says in condence, “We have always led rst,” which commonly appoints Black leaders to lay the groundwork for this progressive and inclusive change. It is irrefutable that the Black community persists to be empowered through this form of activism and active voice.

Samone Anderson has proven to be a vital part of the community, using her role to project the voices of others. And despite such opposition, one thing is clear to Black Bruins: “UCLA wouldn’t have made it to 100 years without us.” + SUITELIFESOCAL.COM | SPECIAL EDITION 2022

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SuiteCauses

Farr's Best

– Better Together #1 Urban Family STORY BY ANGELA JACKSON

W

hen I met André Farr, Chairman, and CEO of Farr's Best, as a student at UCLA more than 30 years ago, I knew he was an extraordinary individual. His condence shone in his teens as brightly as it is shining today, putting a stamp on what he calls Black Brilliance. Today Farr heads several businesses and continues to sponsor and host magnicent entertainment events that keep attendees talking for years to follow.

A few years ago, Farr told me about his nonprot Farr's Best. I was immediately impressed as he shared the family premise that we are better when working together to accomplish similar goals. On his website in his chairman's address, he writes, “Our core values begin with Faith, Family, and Foundation - we promote and support these values throughout every phase of our organization.”

When Farr talks about family, he is not only talking about blood; he is talking about the people God puts in your circle to help you become your best self and to accomplish the vision God has for your life. Farr's best is for family and extended family. In the same address, he writes, “Here at Farr's Best, we purposely engage extended family members because we know change can begin with one person or even one tribe, but evolutionary change must include us all. “ I talked to some of Farr's Best family and extended family. They are impressive movers and shakers in their communities and the world. They all recognize the power of collective effort. Here are just a few of Farr's Best to encourage you to always be “Faithful, Accountable, Respectful, and Reliable.”

Dr. Lenora Levias There are times when you meet someone, and it feels like you have known them forever. That is the feeling I got when speaking with Dr. Lenora Levias. While talking to this amazing woman of God who holds a doctorate in theology and eschatology, I found out that Levias is one of Farr's best members who does indeed have Farr blood running through her veins. Her paternal grandmother was a Farr.

But according to Levias, that is not a prerequisite to be a member of Farr's Best.

“You don't have to be blood-related; you only have to know someone who is related.

Ultimately we are all family. That's what the Farr's are emulating. Because we are family, we are going to have that love and commitment, Levias proclaimed. “When I met André for the rst time, all I could feel was the love for family. This family is like a huge pot, and everyone that becomes a part gets mixed into that huge pot of love,” Levias gleefully shared.

When asked what part of Farr's Best she appreciates the most, Levias had a list of reasons she is an active part of the organization. As the head of the Women’s Ministry, Levias denitely highlighted the newly convened women's ministry as “her heart.” She also stated that

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MONTE S. BROOKS

the family service on the rst Tuesday of each month is one of her favorite programs. On the rst Tuesday of February, she will be sharing a word with attendees. The different initiatives and fundraisers also keep Levias active and grateful to be a part of Farr's Best. Finally, she stated the Saturday morning messages are not to be missed.

“Ever since I tuned into the rst Zoom meeting, I have not missed one.

It's been unbelievable. I have also introduced others, and they feel like if they miss a meeting, they are going to miss a blessing.” One of her friends she invited said,” I need to pay cousin André for what he said.” He added that the knowledge he receives is as good as what one gets from seminars you pay to attend.

Through Levias, I learned that the organization has a place for anyone who feels connected to Farr's Best and is Faithful, Accountable, Respectful, and Reliable.

Frank E. Brady Frank E. Brady, Educational Consultant, Youth Development Expert, and Poet, heard about Farr's Best through his mentor. “André Farr is my mentor. I learned about Farr's Best through him. I have been consistently involved on the Saturday calls and with some of their general initiatives,” Brady shared.

“The rst piece that drew me to Farr's Best is that André Farr has been my mentor for 13 years. I knew whatever he put his attention to was going to be executed at a high level and is going to have an impact on people's lives and would be done with integrity,” Brady afrmed.

When asked what he has learned from Farr's Best, Brady stated, “The most signicant lesson to learn is to see what a healthy family unit looks like; what does it look like to build a healthy family spiritually, emotionally, and economically.”

Of the Saturday meetings that start at 7:30am PT like clockwork Brady had this to say, “I look at Saturdays as a recharge or jump-start to my battery. I am a little more effective and efcient after the call.”

Brady, one of the Distinguished Men, attended the wedding and had this to share about the event. “It was incredible and mindblowing. I've been blessed to watch the process of their love unfold.

The bride, Jay, really has André's back. The wedding was like the culmination of the process of love. It show's what it's like to build love over time, not to just fall into love.” That was beautifully said and is not surprising coming from a distinguished man and a poet.

LOS ANGELES, CA “I didn't have a big family. But now I have one, and they welcome me with open arms. We all have something to offer a skill, a gift, a talent. We use these gifts to build everything but our family.

Farr's Best gives us an opportunity to bring our gifts to the table. There's enough room at the table for everyone to contribute.”

Dr. Shekena Farr Moore Dr. Shekinah Farr Moore is the Director of Communications for Farr's Best and the founder of Formidable Woman, an international condence and women's empowerment brand.

“André reached out to me about 1 ½ year ago. I heard the vision, and I was immediately on board. I started bringing my bricks to the table. Now I am a board member and a shareholder.” Farr shared with the condence you would expect from a member of the #1 urban family in America.

KHALID DAVID & FAMILY

Since Dr. Moore has been a part of Farr's Best, she shared that her “personal development has increased by leaps and bounds.” She credits her growth to the sincere celebration and edication one receives as a member of Farr's Best. “It is very rare that you have people that speak into your life and are genuine and edify you. It builds a spirit of safety and fosters a sense of belonging that you just don't often get”, Dr. Moore added.

One of the highlights about being an active member for Dr. Moore is to see people's growth. “We want to see you doing your best. One of the biggest things for me is watching people become shareholders and stakeholders with Far r's Best. For a lot of A frican Americans, employment is the only thing they have known. They never dreamed about being owners of a company.”

“The wedding was a world-class event. It was a clear reection of the Farr's and their standard of excellence, “ Robinson afrmed. The Farr wedding was lled with dynamic people. The people chosen to be in and at the wedding are why it was so spirit-lled. As Robinson said, “love, gratitude, and appreciation” are what Farr gives to those God has chosen to journey with him.

These same characteristics make up Farr's Best.

Khalid David BOBBY ROBINSON, ESQ.

Fa r r ' s B e s t ' s i m p a c t o n t h e community is also signicant and why Dr. Moore continues to bring her bricks.

“To see the impact in the community where other families are saying, 'How can we connect with Farr's Best? How can we do what they are doing?' is one of the reasons why I am proud to be a part of the #1 urban family in America.”

Bobby Robinson, ESQ.

Robinson is such an integral part of the Farr family that he was asked to be a groomsman. “I was honored to be asked

by André Farr to be a distinguished gentleman and groomsmen. I know that was a very intimate decision,” Robinson humbly reected. “Everyone he selected represents him and the nature of the relationship,” he added.

FRANK E. BRADY

Bobby Robinson is an entrepreneur and a Trademark and Social Media Attorney. Of his connection to Farr's Best, he shared, “I was introduced to the family through Monte S. Brooks, who has been a Senior Advisor to André Farr for more than twenty years.” Brooks and Robinson attend church together in Charlotte, North Carolina, and were both in the Farr wedding as distinguished men and groomsmen. They are a part of his close circle.

What made Robinson, a successful businessman, and family man, stay connected to Farr's Best after his initial introduction, “I really connected to the family. It's rare that you see Black families love on each other, encourage, inspire, and worship together. That's why I'm connected,” Robinson explained.

Among the many distinguished guests at Jay and André Farr's wedding was Khalid David, owner of TracFlo. Many people may recognize his name as the recent recipient of the $1 million startup investment awarded by Invesco QQQ Legacy Classic at the end of 2021.

I know his name because before receiving the start-up award, Suite Life SoCal Publisher Sarah Harris and I were invited to hear him pitch TracFlo to other potential investors and mentors to help him tap into community investments. I remember the impression he and his lovely supportive wife made that evening.

David shared how he became a member of Farr's Best. “I heard about Farr's Best through André. In 2021 as I was beginning this public fundraising campaign, I thought about mentors who could be helpful. I reached out to him. He was a bit upset because he wanted me to reach out sooner.”

David was a part of the DRE Program in 2009 as an undergrad at Columbia University. He explained how a $300,000 deal fell apart before reaching out to Farr for his mentorship. “In 2020, I began touching base more often. I began thinking about my business and the type of partnerships I wanted, David reected.”

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SuiteCauses

“When we were on the fundraising campaign, we decided to do a six-city tour and to stop in LA as a part of Farr's Best. I asked André if Monte S. Brooks could be my advisor.” Advice from Brooks was essential to David because he had come to know Farr's Best as a space to afrm that Black families could take care of you and be genuinely invested in your success. Support from family is something he had not found.

During that meeting in Los Angeles, David learned to “activate the culture; I'm talking about Black investors. Bobby Robinson and Monte S. Brooks modeling for us at what they call “cottage parties.” You ask a friend to invite people over, and you pitch to them. In the evening, he (André Farr) invited friends over so Robinson could pitch again to create an environment, and for the rst time, it was demonstrated how unapologetic he was to nd Black investors.”

David was then called up to pitch Trako. “It started rough, but it became this thing that demanded more. I had to break out my investor presentation. Brooks asked tough questions so I could demonstrate my expertise and practice raising money.”

That evening, I remember being so impressed by David and his wife that I told David that I wanted to invest in him and that I believed in him. While we were talking about the impact of that evening organized by Farr's Best, David shared the effect that my desire to invest in him and my belief in his business made a profound impact on him. “I was educated on what investing from my own community would look like,” David humbly shared.

“Farr's best was creating a space for me to be ready to receive that, the community invested in me,” David said insightfully.

Eventually, David and his team raised more than $400,000 through equity crowd-funding. After winning the pitch competition, these investors were able to see a return in their investment when David and his team were awarded the start-up funds.

“Farr's Best gives you permission to not only go where you're seen but to not play small because you're afraid to rattle the social networks that you were born into. I became a public gure around the idea that we need to galvanize the idea,” David explained.

When asked about Farr's Best's impact on his relationship with his wife and family, David appeared most gracious. Being a part of the organization has provided him and his wife with excellent examples of husbands and wives who work together.

Through those relationships, David's wife, who is responsible for creating the face of TracFlo, was able to see her role clearly, and the two decided since she is already working for TracFlo, she might as well be hired by the company to do what she has been doing to grow the company. Today she works full-time for TracFlo. David's story is profound, and the impact of Farr's Best is evident in his story. His story afrms what other members have shared. It was tough to end my interview with David. The knowledge and wisdom he has gained as a student of life, intern of the DRE Program, and member of Farr's Best are overowing. He

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is the product of what it looks like when you nd community and have a supportive tribe behind you. Farr's Best is changing lives and is an example of Black Brilliance.

Monte S. Brooks Farr's Best came to fruition two years ago; however, the idea of an organization like Farr's Best was shared with Monte S. Brooks, André Farr's Senior Advisor, a prominent businessman, and respected mentor many years ago. "André always has these mindboggling ideas oating through his head, "Brooks shared.

According to Brooks. Farr shared that he wanted to create an organization that brings his family together. When he explained the vastness of the organization, Brooks shared that he asked Farr if he had that much family, and André responded, "No, but we are going to invite everyone."

Brooks was impressed because, as he stated, "that changes the denition of family." Many conversations about microeconomics and how to change the internal negative bias that African Americans have about doing business together have taken place between Farr and Brooks. Farr's Best is a byproduct of those conversations.

Brooks talks about Farr's best like a proud Father. "Our core has grown. It's phenomenal. It's laying the foundation for success in the future." Brooks reports. He is most proud of the tremendous growth Farr's Best has seen.

While reecting, Brooks said, "The most impactful part of being involved with Farr's best has been "the snowball effect. It's seeing the snowball as it begins to roll down the hill. It started out as this little ball in a hand, and by being committed, true, and consistent, that snowball is now unrecognizable."

One of the things that Brooks echoes is that the mantra, "bring your own brick," really means something in Farr's Best.

According to him, people are bringing their bricks and looking to nd how to place their bricks, so they build community. They are also committing to do what's necessary to be consistent in bringing their gifts to the table.

Brooks shares Robinson's view on the honor that came with being in the Farr wedding as a groomsman. "The wedding represented Black purpose, Black power, Black love, and Black excellence. All four of these were in full effect."

At the wedding, Brooks addressed the attendees at the reception on the importance of relationship building. He honored the Farr's for putting people together for the mutual purpose, to benet one another.

Farr's Best is an extension of André Farr's vision, Jay Farr's commitment to support and build with her husband, and a reection of the love, commitment, and faith of the people that make up the organization.

Visit farrsbest.com to learn more about Farr's Best and connect with the vision. +

Suite Biz

NEW LEADERSHIP AT THE

BLACK BUSINESS

ASSOCIATION SPECIAL EDITION 2022

Suite Life CONCIERGE MAGAZINE

SoCal

SuiteBiz

Changing of the Guard

SARAH R. HARRIS SUITE LIFE SOCAL PUBLISHER TAKES THE HELM AT THE BLACK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION STORY BY EDDIE TRUJILLO GRIJALVA | PHOTOS BY XAVIER HARRIS

T

he Black Business Association (BBA) is a wellrespected institution in Southern California. It was created in L os Angeles in 1970 to foster an environment conducive to African American and minority small business owners. By dedicating the organization to the advocacy, promotion, and development of African Americanowned businesses with the hopes of creating an economic base to allow the African American community true self-sufciency.

For more than forty-six of its fty-two years, the BBA was led by its celebrated president and CEO, Earl “Skip” Cooper II. Though by the summer of 2021, the writing was on the wall. After giving the organization a lifetime of service, Cooper would be letting it be known that he was planning to retire. The person picked to take the helm and guide the BBA through this time of transition and into the future is Suite Life SoCal's very own creator and publisher-in-chief, Sarah R. Harris --- a woman who has worked alongside Cooper on many projects and events over the past twenty-plus years. On January 1, 2022, Harris was appointed by the board as President and CEO of the Black Business Association.

Born in Riverside, CA, Harris attended Riverside Polytechnic High School, where she was active in student government. After graduating in 1985, she continued her education at Scripps College in Claremont, CA. Harris is a self-described “late bloomer” when it comes to a career. She admitted, “I've had detours in my life,” though detours are usually a path around the mess. As a self-taught graphic designer, Harris added, “I found my way when I joined my older sister's event planning service, Personal Service Plus.”

Harris began genuinely engaging with her community during these times through company events. It was also at this time that her creativity shone. In her own words: “The magic came when I began to design the event collaterals like yers, invitations, signage, etc., for company events.” Her graphic design background had paid off and would continue to serve her well into the future.

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By the year 2000, Harris had begun a publication called SAVE THE DATE, a community events calendar that would serve as the master calendar of all the “who's who” events taking place in the greater Los Angeles area. It would evolve into an actual magazine by 2005. SAVE THE DATE made Harris a small business owner, which began her productive twenty-year working relationship with the BBA and Cooper.

Fast-forward to today, and Harris is taking control of the oldest ethnic and active business support organization in California committed to the well-being of the African American small business community. When asked how it felt to follow a “literal living legend” by Suite Life SoCal's managing editor, Angela Jackson, Harris said, “It's awe-inspiring in terms of knowing the [man's] journey, his legacy, his commitment and measuring up to that commitment. It could be intimidating if I really think about it. The good thing is I've had more than twenty years to get to know him and work alongside him and just witness and experience on a day-to-day basis.”

When asked about her specic goals, she stated: “Making things more clear cut…. updating the bylaws to represent this modern generation, including references to gender….we're looking to move into a space where we're doing things a little differently, and we're able to meet people where they're at in this day and age, with the tools and resources we need today.”

Commenting further on her responsibilities, Harris added: “To reset and fortify the foundation….and making it so that when the permanent president is in place, they have all the tools to make a board that is sustainable and can move forward.”

When pressed if she had any interest in the permanent position, she replied: “In the beginning, I wasn't 100% there because it was a new idea. Though I believe I can make a difference with setting a next level path for the BBA, do I want to go further? What really helped me to say yes was the acceptance by the board as well as the reception by many people in the community for me in terms of people telling me they were supportive, and that they were there for the BBA. That was very encouraging and meant a lot.”

In 2022 the BBA and its new president have no shortage of responsibilities, and the need for the organization in the small business community is all the more signicant. While they move forward with condence in leadership and an eye on the future, they will be looking back to honor the past with proper recognition and a celebration of the accomplishments of the BBA under Cooper's leadership.

As a part of Harris' talk series, SuiteTalk, an interview between Harris and Cooper will stream on the BBA's and Suite Life SoCal's Facebook and YouTube pages with a larger celebration planned for the summer. Harris will be continuing her limited series every Friday in February.

As the BBA works through its transition period and with limitations due to COVID, annual events are being reimagined with announcements to be made soon. To keep in touch with the BBA or if you want to become a member, visit the BBA online at www.bbala.org or call (323)-291-9334 or email to mail@bbala.org. The BBA is a 501(c)(3) nonprot organization. +

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Congratulations André and Jay Farr, May God grant you a lifetime of love and happiness!

Farr’s Best NonProfit Board of Directors: Bettye Farr Hickerson Calvin Farr Ebonie Smith Kevin Singletary

Lisa Farr Patterson Larissa Moore Regina Faison

FARRSBEST.ORG MISSION We serve to empower individuals to be their best through academic achievement, financial literacy and leadership training that will result in self-sufficiency, cohesive families, stronger communities, and a better world.

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