Deborah Powell
History Made Under the Blue MoonA day that began with crisp blue skies ended beneath a rare Full Blue Moon as guests gathered for the African American Spirit and Retail Association's All-White Rooftop Celebration on May 31, 2026, at the beautiful Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Convention Center.
As rare as the Blue Moon itself, history was being made that evening as African American-owned spirit brands came together in a powerful display of unity, culture, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. The rooftop experience featured complimentary tastings of Black-owned spirits, networking opportunities, media arrivals, book authors, artists, community leaders, and business professionals.
The rooftop was filled with stylish, grown-and-sexy guests dressed elegantly in white, alongside beautiful models who added to the evening's sophistication. Dr. Larry White welcomed attendees and introduced Roger Gore's vision and leadership in advancing the African American spirits industry. The event marked a milestone moment, highlighting the growth, visibility, and collective strength of Black-owned spirit brands, now earning dedicated retail shelf space throughout the region.
Maryland continues to spotlight and preserve African American history, culture, and business leadership through organizations and initiatives that support Black heritage, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
Guests were entertained throughout the evening by an outstanding lineup of performers, including saxophonist Eugene Chapman, jazz and R&B saxophonist Stanley Cooper, guitarist Vivian Taylor, female vocalist Vivian Taylor, and male vocalist Stephen Gillis. Their performances created an atmosphere of celebration and pride.
The event also marked the official launch of the African American Spirit and Retail Magazine, commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and memorable photo opportunities.
As the evening progressed, Asia from Magic 102.3 and DJ Supreme recognized Dr. Tauheed Burke for his contributions and leadership. DMV models then took to the rooftop runway in a dynamic fashion presentation. As the energy grew, guests enthusiastically joined the runway walk, creating an unforgettable experience filled with music, excitement, and community spirit.
The celebration concluded beneath the glowing Full Blue Moon as guests danced the night away to popular line dances and the unmistakable sounds of Go-Go music, bringing the evening to a joyful close.
Continuing the theme, "We Rise Together When We Work Together," this launch represented far more than a business achievement. It was a celebration of collaboration, legacy, community empowerment, cultural pride, and economic progress—a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together with a shared vision for success.
By Deborah P.
Celebrating Culture, Entrepreneurship, and Community Excellence
As rare as the Blue Moon itself, history was being made that evening as African American-owned spirit brands came together in a powerful display of unity, culture, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. The rooftop experience featured complimentary tastings of Black-owned spirits, networking opportunities, media arrivals, book authors, artists, community leaders, and business professionals.
The rooftop was filled with stylish, grown-and-sexy guests dressed elegantly in white, alongside beautiful models who added to the evening's sophistication. Dr. Larry White welcomed attendees and introduced Roger Gore's vision and leadership in advancing the African American spirits industry. The event marked a milestone moment, highlighting the growth, visibility, and collective strength of Black-owned spirit brands, now earning dedicated retail shelf space throughout the region.
Maryland continues to spotlight and preserve African American history, culture, and business leadership through organizations and initiatives that support Black heritage, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
Guests were entertained throughout the evening by an outstanding lineup of performers, including saxophonist Eugene Chapman, jazz and R&B saxophonist Stanley Cooper, guitarist Vivian Taylor, female vocalist Vivian Taylor, and male vocalist Stephen Gillis. Their performances created an atmosphere of celebration and pride.
The event also marked the official launch of the African American Spirit and Retail Magazine, commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and memorable photo opportunities.
As the evening progressed, Asia from Magic 102.3 and DJ Supreme recognized Dr. Tauheed Burke for his contributions and leadership. DMV models then took to the rooftop runway in a dynamic fashion presentation. As the energy grew, guests enthusiastically joined the runway walk, creating an unforgettable experience filled with music, excitement, and community spirit.
The celebration concluded beneath the glowing Full Blue Moon as guests danced the night away to popular line dances and the unmistakable sounds of Go-Go music, bringing the evening to a joyful close.
Continuing the theme, "We Rise Together When We Work Together," this launch represented far more than a business achievement. It was a celebration of collaboration, legacy, community empowerment, cultural pride, and economic progress—a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together with a shared vision for success.
By Deborah P.
Celebrating Culture, Entrepreneurship, and Community Excellence