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Discover the Best Things to Do in THE DMV
Grand Central Restaurant & Bar: Adams Morgan’s Go-To Spot for Food, Drinks & Fun
Located in the heart of Adams Morgan, Grand Central is a vibrant multi-level bar and grill offering American cuisine with a global twist. With a lively dance floor, plenty of TVs for sports, live DJs on weekends, and great drink specials, it’s the perfect place to catch a game, host a party, or enjoy a night out. Casual, trendy, and full
Located in the heart of Adams Morgan, Grand Central is a vibrant multi-level bar and grill offering American cuisine with a global twist. With a lively dance floor, plenty of TVs for sports, live DJs on weekends, and great drink specials, it’s the perfect place to catch a game, host a party, or enjoy a night out. Casual, trendy, and full of energy, Grand Central has been a DC favorite for over 15 years.
Address: 2447 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: (202) 986-1742
Menu: grandcentraldc.com
Ben’s Next Door DC
Family Owned. Black Owned. U Street Grown.
Since 2008, Ben’s Next Door has been a staple on U Street in Northwest Washington DC. We are proud to be a Black owned, family operated restaurant and bar offering a unique twist on dining — what we call fun dining.
At Ben’s, we believe in more than just great food. We are about community, comfort,
Family Owned. Black Owned. U Street Grown.
Since 2008, Ben’s Next Door has been a staple on U Street in Northwest Washington DC. We are proud to be a Black owned, family operated restaurant and bar offering a unique twist on dining — what we call fun dining.
At Ben’s, we believe in more than just great food. We are about community, comfort, and connection. Our warm, welcoming vibe and hyper local spirit make every visit feel like coming home.
Whether you are here for brunch, cocktails, or dinner with friends, you will find a familiar, communal energy that keeps people coming back time and time again.
MK Lounge DC ON U STREET
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
MK Lounge DC, established in 2013, is a premier nightlife destination nestled in the historic U Street area of Washington, D.C. Known as the first African American Lounge on 9th Street, MK Lounge offers a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and nightlife seekers.
The two-story venue features two fully stock
MK Lounge DC, established in 2013, is a premier nightlife destination nestled in the historic U Street area of Washington, D.C. Known as the first African American Lounge on 9th Street, MK Lounge offers a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and nightlife seekers.
The two-story venue features two fully stocked bars and a trendy hookah lounge, making it a go-to spot for diverse crowds looking to enjoy great drinks, hookah, and music. A rotating DJ plays a variety of music genres, enhancing the lounge's vibrant energy. Whether you're unwinding with friends or celebrating a special occasion, MK Lounge promises a stylish and unforgettable experience.
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
Discover why The Wharf is Washington DC’s go-to spot for unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving from fine dining and cozy cafés to gourmet bites on the go.
Unwind with cocktails after work, reserve a table for a romantic date night, or gather the family for
Discover why The Wharf is Washington DC’s go-to spot for unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving from fine dining and cozy cafés to gourmet bites on the go.
Unwind with cocktails after work, reserve a table for a romantic date night, or gather the family for a weekend meal with waterfront views. With a diverse array of restaurants, the choices are all yours.
Plan your visit
For reservations, full menus, and seasonal specials, please visit each restaurant’s website.
Asefu's Palace - Ethiopian Restaurant & Bar
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
Sleek Solutions for MGM National Harbor Theater
Named after legendary Ethiopian singer Asefu Alemayehu, Asefu Restaurant & Lounge brings soulful tradition and modern flair to Washington’s 9th Street corridor. Founded by Alemayehu herself, the space blends heritage and hospitality through a menu that fuses classic Ethiopian flavors with contemporary American influences.
Enjoy curated win
Named after legendary Ethiopian singer Asefu Alemayehu, Asefu Restaurant & Lounge brings soulful tradition and modern flair to Washington’s 9th Street corridor. Founded by Alemayehu herself, the space blends heritage and hospitality through a menu that fuses classic Ethiopian flavors with contemporary American influences.
Enjoy curated wines, traditional coffee, and herbal teas in a beautifully renovated setting featuring soft yellow seating, floral accents, and warm lighting. Whether you’re here for a relaxed evening or a lively gathering, Asefu offers a refined yet welcoming experience rooted in culture, music, and memory.
Sleek Solutions for MGM National Harbor Theater
The Wharf: DC’s Premier Waterfront Dining Destination
Sleek Solutions for MGM National Harbor Theater
Sightline Commercial Solutions brought safety and style to the Theater at MGM National Harbor with 600 feet of sleek black anodized aluminum railings topped with rich red oak. Built for flexibility, the custom rail and stair systems roll out effortlessly with the retractable seating, perfect for rocking concerts, thrilling sports and ever
Sightline Commercial Solutions brought safety and style to the Theater at MGM National Harbor with 600 feet of sleek black anodized aluminum railings topped with rich red oak. Built for flexibility, the custom rail and stair systems roll out effortlessly with the retractable seating, perfect for rocking concerts, thrilling sports and everything in between.
Plan your visit
For reservations, full menus, and seasonal specials, please visit The Theater’s website.
The Nightlife Visionary Behind Some of D.C.’s Biggest Venues
Walking With Derek Owens: The Nightlife Visionary Behind Some of D.C.’s Biggest Venues
I recently had the opportunity to walk and talk with Derek Owens, a key figure in Washington D.C.'s nightlife scene and the former owner of 2K9 Nightclub. Strategically located between two Metro entrances and just steps from the U Street Corridor, 2K9 was once one of the most prominent nightclubs in Shaw and a staple of the city’s vibrant party culture.
Among the many events Owens produced, one that stands out was a large-scale celebration specifically organized for members of the deaf community. It was an inclusive and high-energy gathering that left a lasting impression on attendees.
Owens also played a role in shaping other major venues. He was a co-owner of Oxygen the Venue, which now operates as Bliss Nightclub under different ownership. Bliss remains a well-known destination in the District's nightlife landscape.
His vision has extended beyond the D.C. city limits. At MGM National Harbor, Owens organized one of the DMV’s largest networking events in the Fête Room, a space that accommodates 600 people in a seated arrangement and up to 2,000 for receptions. The event reflected his ability to blend entertainment with meaningful community engagement on a large scale.
With deep ties to the music and entertainment industries, Derek Owens remains a powerful connector and creative force in the region. Judging by his track record, he shows no signs of slowing down.
Stay tuned for a full interview with Owens on his journey, his vision, and what’s next for nightlife in the D.C. area.
It's Time to Reclaim the Truth About Black Fatherhood
It's Time to Reclaim the Truth About Black Fatherhood
Black fathers care deeply about our children, and we love our communities just as fiercely as anyone else. Yet for decades, we have been portrayed as absent, lazy, or indifferent. This narrative is not only false, it is damaging. It fuels systemic injustice, weakens families, and undermines the very communities we are working hard to uplift.
Like many others, I believe government assistance, whether it be Section 8 housing, food stamps, or cash benefits, should be restructured to empower those striving to contribute to the American economy. Assistance should go to both women and men who want to go back to school, start businesses, or gain the skills needed to thrive in a fast-moving, technology-driven world. Our kids are learning new things every 30 seconds. Parents need to be learning too.
There are countless fathers, some who have grown up in foster care, others who have spent time incarcerated, who want nothing more than to guide their children through life. We want to teach them about entrepreneurship, faith, politics, and self-worth. Too often, the system does not support that. It prioritizes financial metrics over relationships and labels us as unfit before we are even heard.
The impact is visible. Children without strong paternal influence are more vulnerable to the streets, substance abuse, incarceration, and exploitation. Many mothers do their best, but when fathers are shut out of the picture, often by biased courts and a system that assumes women are always right, the full support structure children need is weakened.
Judges and social workers often fail to evaluate whether a mother is equipped to raise a child alone. Are they providing emotional stability? Do they need parenting or anger management classes? Are they fostering growth or passing on pain? These are questions that rarely get asked.
Too many boys grow up without seeing a healthy, responsible man in their daily life. Too many girls grow up absorbing emotional abuse, only to seek love from men with unresolved trauma. Meanwhile, we pour resources into programs that do not challenge recipients to grow, learn, or lead. The goal of government aid should be empowerment, not lifelong dependency.
Let us be honest. The economic and cultural decline in many urban communities cannot be reversed without strong men who are present, equipped, and allowed to lead. If that were not true, the neighborhoods we now see being gentrified would not have been neglected in the first place.
This is not just about Black men. It is about all men who are tired of being shut out of their children's lives by a system that rarely listens to them. We are builders. We build homes, businesses, and dreams. But we are also fathers, mentors, and protectors.
It is time to end the deliberate erasure of Black fatherhood from our national story. We want our children to have the best, not from the government, but from us. It is time the system started helping us do that.
Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf
The 13th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf Brings Big Fun to DC
The 13th Annual Running of the Chihuahuas took place today, Saturday, May 3, 2025, at The Wharf, attracting hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of lively entertainment, cute dogs, and community spirit.
From 2-5PM, visitors enjoyed the free event, which featured the much-anticipated Chihuahua races. Over 150 Chihuahuas raced in groups of eight on a 60-foot track, with all the action captured on a large video screen. The winners took home pet-friendly prizes, and the event’s proceeds will benefit Rural Dog Rescue, an organization dedicated to rescuing dogs from high-kill rural shelters.
In addition to the races, the event offered a Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ spinning tunes, and an All-Breed Dog Costume Contest. Attendees also had the chance to meet adoptable pets in the Adoptable Pet Parade and take photos with a giant inflatable Chihuahua. For those looking to relax, the Tito’s Chihuahua Lounge on Transit Pier offered dog-friendly cocktails, made with Tito’s Vodka for Dog People.
The event, presented by Pacifico and emceed by Tommy McFly, was a resounding success, bringing together dog lovers, families, and community members to celebrate all things Chihuahua.
With its fun atmosphere and charitable cause, the Running of the Chihuahuas remains one of the Wharf's signature events.
Metro, We Still Believe in You
Metro, We Still Believe in You, But You Have to Fight for Us Too
Life in the DMV is always in motion. Our cities are growing and changing. New buildings are rising, and old ones are fading. Storefronts are closing while cranes continue their slow dance over D.C. We all try to keep up with the pace, and for many of us, Metro is how we do it.
Whether it’s a train to a museum in D.C., a bus across Maryland, or a ride home to Virginia, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has always been more than just a way to get from point A to point B. Metro has been our city’s bloodstream. It is how we’ve experienced life here: diverse, fast-paced, sometimes chaotic, but always connected.
And yet today, something feels broken.
Trains are stalling. Buses are late or missing altogether. Sparks on the tracks, signal failures, and tense rides through darkened tunnels are no longer rare incidents. They’re becoming routine. Drivers seem more stressed than ever, with some afraid to speak or smile. Routes are being cut. Riders feel unsafe. The love we once had for Metro feels like it’s slipping away.
I remember when our Metro drivers used to greet us with warmth. Their smiles were genuine and their conversations real. Riding the bus felt like being part of a small community. That human connection is vanishing, replaced by silence and surveillance.
Metro has its reasons. There are staffing shortages, fare evasions, and a surge in security incidents. While the problems are real, so is the growing disconnect between WMATA and the people it serves.
It doesn’t help that Metro doesn’t face real competition. Unlike businesses that have to innovate to survive, WMATA exists in a space where public frustration doesn’t always lead to consequences. But this is starting to change. Uber and Lyft, even with driverless vehicles, are becoming real alternatives. While they may be convenient, they’re not affordable. At the end of a month, they can cost a rider hundreds more than Metro.
That’s why I still believe in Metro. For \$13 a day, you can explore the entire DMV. No rideshare app can compete with that. But value isn’t just about price. It’s also about experience, respect, and trust.
We don’t just want Metro to work. We want it to work for us, the riders, the taxpayers, and the people who depend on it every single day.
Let’s be clear: we’re not shirking our part. Riders should pay their fares. We should treat drivers and fellow passengers with respect. But it’s time for WMATA to show us a vision. Not just for next year, but for the next decade.
What’s the plan for safety, for modern trains, and for cleaner stations? Where is the commitment to better customer service? How are our tax dollars and fare money being used to build something great?
WMATA projects rising revenue for 2026 and 2027, which is promising. But a return on investment isn’t just financial. It’s emotional too. Riders want to know that we’re not just funding a system, but a future. One where public transit is a source of pride, not anxiety.
In the end, we’re all Metro has. We are its lifeblood. And we want to be fought for. We want to believe this system still believes in us.
A Love Letter to the Golden Era of DC Nightlife
When D.C. Was Popping: A Love Letter to the Golden Era of Nightlife
There was a time when Washington, D.C. nightlife was more than just a weekend plan. It was a culture, a community, a scene you had to earn your way into. Clubs weren’t just venues. They were institutions. And getting in took more than a ticket. It took connections, respect, and a place on the list.
I remember it vividly. Names that still echo with nostalgia: Love, Fur, Ibiza, Zanzibar, Lux Lounge, VIP, H2O, Platinum, Ultra Bar, The Ritz, The Legends, DC Star, Mirrors, Palladium. These were more than clubs. They were stages for moments that defined a generation. Back then, promoters weren’t just hustling bodies through doors. They were gatekeepers. If your name wasn’t on the list, you weren’t getting in. Status mattered. Reputation mattered. You didn’t just show up. You belonged.
It wasn’t just about the music, the models, or the bottles, though we had plenty of all three. It was about an unspoken code: respect, trust, loyalty. Promoters were responsible for their guests. You were accountable for your crew. That level of professionalism kept the energy high and the drama low.
Today, it feels different.
A new era of club ownership has arrived, and the business model has changed. The focus is less on exclusivity and more on foot traffic. Everyone’s let in. The velvet rope doesn’t mean much anymore. Accountability has faded, and with it, a piece of the magic. The big rooms still exist, those that hold 500 or more, and some still invest in the marketing trifecta: radio, digital, and street. But many clubs now rely on volume over vibe. The formula remains, but the intention behind it feels diluted.
Back then, if marketing wasn’t enough, clubs would spend \$20,000 to \$100,000 to book top-tier talent, from NBA stars and NFL players to hip-hop artists and reality celebrities. We dressed to impress. We danced. We celebrated. We worked hard and played harder.
Today, people pregame in their cars. They come out with empty pockets, sipping from flasks, nodding to the DJ instead of hitting the floor. Maybe it’s the economy. Maybe it’s a shift in culture. Either way, D.C. nightlife isn’t what it used to be.
But I’m back, and I’m here to build again. Not to recreate the past, but to reimagine the future. To recapture the energy, the glamour, and the trust that once made Washington, D.C. the place to be until sunrise.
Because when D.C. was popping, it was unforgettable. And with the right vision, it can be again.
From Georgia Avenue to Adams Morgan
From Georgia Avenue to Adams Morgan: Finding Rhythm at Bukom
Sometimes, a night out in Washington offers more than just entertainment. It offers escape. Last night, I needed just that. So I left Georgia Avenue in search of something different, something that felt alive.
I began the evening in Adams Morgan with a stop at Grand Central. The comedy was sharp, the room buzzing with laughter that cut through the week’s weight. It was the kind of release only a good set can offer. But as the final joke landed, I wasn’t ready for the night to end.
A few blocks away, Bukom Café was already humming. Named after a neighborhood in Accra, Ghana, this West African restaurant and lounge has long been a cultural anchor in D.C.'s nightlife. The scent of jollof rice and suya drifted out the door, mixing with the steady thump of live music including Afrobeat, highlife, and a touch of reggae.
Inside, the tables were full, the bar was alive, and the band was deep in the groove. Bukom offers seats, but I didn’t want one. I wanted to stand, to move, to let the rhythm take hold. And it did.
In a city known for its politics, nights like these remind me that Washington is also a city of pulse and soul. At Bukom, I found both.
A Wednesday Night in Washington DC
Laughter in the Moment: A Wednesday Night in Washington DC
Washington, D.C. rarely slows down. These days, the weight of the city feels heavier than usual. People are anxious about job security, shrinking grant funding, and whether their cryptocurrency dreams will ever rebound. But tonight, for a few precious hours, I was reminded of something simple and essential: laughter still lives here.
I spent the evening at Grand Central in Adams Morgan, a place I once visited to party, meet pretty women, and drink until I could no longer stand. This time I returned for something different: comedy. And it delivered.
Montenegro Comedy, hosted by Zak Haines, took over the space with a lineup of local comics who brought honesty, energy, and a lot of heart. Every Wednesday at 9 p.m. they turn the venue into a sanctuary for anyone in need of a laugh, and tonight that was all of us.
What struck me most wasn’t just the jokes, though many landed beautifully. It was the atmosphere. The comedians did not take themselves too seriously, and that spirit was contagious. In a city known for its ambition and tension, the room felt refreshingly light. We were strangers who came together simply to laugh, and that felt like enough.
Grand Central may have once been my go-to for dancing and drinks. Tonight it became something more, a place to reconnect with joy, even for just one night.
Montenegro Comedy happens every Wednesday at 9 p.m. at Grand Central in Adams Morgan.
Instagram: @montenegrocomedy
https://instagram.com/montenegrocomedy
#comedy #comediansoftiktok #comedyvideos
The Heartbeat of Washington, DC's Nightlife
The Heartbeat of Washington, DC's Nightlife
Washington, DC is a city that never sleeps, and it’s one I’ve come to know and love. From trendy rooftop bars to intimate open mic nights, comedy shows, and exciting networking events, there’s always something happening. The energy here is unmatched, with celebrities frequently passing through and adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
This is my city. I understand its pulse, and I’ve gained a deep knowledge of the nightlife scene. I’m passionate about the people, the places, and the events that make DC’s nightlife truly special. Whether it’s the thrill of a new spot opening or the buzz around a local event, Washington, DC is where the action is, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.!
Dunbar Heritage Music Festival
South Carolina’s Dunbar Heritage Music Festival Celebrates Community with Style and Soul
Clio, S.C. — In the heart of Marlboro County, the Dunbar Heritage Music Festival is set to debut on Saturday, June 7, 2025, promising an afternoon of culture, community, and celebration at the historic Dunbar Heritage Place in Clio, South Carolina. The event was planned for last September, but Hurricane Helene forced organizers to re-schedule the music festival.
From 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., attendees will gather at 3023 Hebron Dunbar Road for an “All White Affair,” a themed event that invites guests to wear white attire as a symbol of unity and tradition. The festival pays homage to the rich cultural history of the Dunbar community, bringing together generations through music, food, and fellowship. Many old-timers across Marlboro County may remember the Minturn and Bluff Picnics that brought people together for generations through music and fun for decades. The Dunbar Heritage Music festival hopes to reimagine and recapture those good times.
This year’s festival lineup features performances from comedian Jakeel McClary, the powerful vocals of The Queen’s Court, and the soulful sounds of The Michael Bennett Project. Live bands and DJs will keep the energy high throughout the day, while local vendors and food trucks will offer a variety of Southern cuisine and handmade goods.
Founded to honor the legacy and contributions of the Dunbar area’s African American community, the festival hopes to grow into a vibrant annual tradition. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and tents for comfortable outdoor viewing.
Early bird admission is $25 and parking is free. The ticket price will increase on May 1st. The event is family-friendly and open to all who want to experience the enduring spirit of the South through music and culture.
Media, Justice, and the Future We Must Build Together
Media, Justice, and the Future We Must Build Together
Media has always been a powerful tool. It informs, influences, and shapes the narratives that define who we are. For Black communities and the African diaspora, media is not just a platform. It is a lifeline. It gives us the power to tell our own stories, elevate our voices, and control our image in a world that has too often tried to define us through a distorted lens.
We have the capacity to build our own television networks, radio stations, publications, and films. And we should. But as we do, we must not shame or judge other ethnicities who choose not to shop, eat, drink, or spend time with us. Their role is to uplift their communities just as our responsibility is to uplift ours. The goal is not separation but empowerment. And with mutual respect, we can find ways to collaborate, build up our cities and towns, and strengthen the fabric of this nation together.
True unity starts with respect, and that includes respecting each other’s freedom of speech, civil rights, right to protest, right to defend ourselves, and the right to exist in a democratic society. These are not privileges. They are fundamental rights.
Capitalism must evolve. It should not be based on race, ethnicity, sexuality, or disability. It should be based on vision, innovation, relationship-building, and the ability to lead and generate value in positive, transformative ways. When capitalism demands war, people die, and their families live with pain and resentment. We must ask ourselves what kind of future we want for our children and grandchildren.
We cannot ignore the legacy of slavery in this country. For generations, Black people were placed in chains, exploited, and dehumanized. And today, that painful truth still makes many uncomfortable, especially the descendants of those who benefited from it. Some argue that reparations are unnecessary and a thing of the past. But history has consequences, and the burden of that legacy continues to weigh on the Black community.
We must be allowed to build without interference, without violence, without fear of guns, drugs, or disease being intentionally introduced into our neighborhoods. The success and potential of the Black community should not incite jealousy or suppression. It should inspire collaboration and admiration. These harmful tactics must end.
If we are to compete, let it be on the basis of education, talent, skill, and integrity, not oppression. I am not talking about fairness in the abstract. I am talking about a society where no one is enslaved, assaulted, robbed, or dehumanized just so others can thrive. If we are to coexist, let it be because of our merit and vision, not at the cost of someone else's humanity.
Moving forward, anyone found guilty of human trafficking or modern-day slavery must face life in prison. Their wealth and assets should be directed toward restoring the lives of those they exploited. Justice must not only be symbolic. It must be real and measurable.
And that is why media is essential. We must continue to create content that reflects our values, preserves our history, and speaks truth to power. That does not mean we exclude others, but collaboration must be a choice, not a condition.
The time for empty promises is over. The time to build something lasting, equitable, and just is now.
America Doesn’t Need to Change. We Do.
America Doesn’t Need to Change. We Do.
There was a time when trading service for service felt noble, when building with your neighbor was a badge of honor. We took care of each other because that’s what survival required. But that era is gone. We are no longer bound by the constraints of slavery, socialism, or communism. We are living in a capitalist society, one that rewards boldness, ownership, and unapologetic ambition.
This is America. The land of resilience. The country where you can fall flat on your face, stand up, dust yourself off, and take another shot at greatness. But here’s the truth that too many of us have been slow to embrace: in order to thrive in this system, you must understand the rules of the game.
We marvel at the billionaires, the industry titans, the dynasties. But their success isn’t magic. It’s strategy. They hire experts to raise capital, protect their interests, and multiply their wealth. They use money to purchase not just products, but talent, creativity, and time. That’s the currency of power in a capitalist society.
Yet many in our communities are still operating under outdated codes of loyalty and labor. We give away ideas, time, and resources for free. We offer our services in exchange for friendship, hoping that loyalty will be reciprocated with opportunity. But capitalism doesn’t run on hope. It runs on transactions.
This isn't about selling out. It’s about leveling up.
Our people come from cultures of care, community, and collective responsibility. We’re used to sharing what we have, even if it’s not much. But in America, it’s every family for themselves. This country is not run by individuals. It is run by families. Powerful ones. They own the banks, influence politicians, and write the rules of money. And if we want a seat at the table, we have to build families too. Economic families. Strong, united, legacy-minded families that can grow businesses, protect assets, and play the long game.
In the hood, in the projects, in the blocks we call home, we haven’t been taught to think like that. We’ve been conditioned to create and give without protection. That’s why loyalty, respect, and honor are so sacred to us, because we don’t have much else. But while we cling to community values, developers, investors, and opportunists are buying up our neighborhoods, beautifying them, and selling them back to the world without us.
And we’re getting pushed out. Not because we lack value, but because we haven’t learned how to protect and monetize that value.
But change is coming.
More and more Black Americans are waking up. We’re learning how to leverage the system instead of being victims to it. We’re suing those who block our paths. We’re incorporating, negotiating, and organizing. We know the game is rigged, but we’re studying the playbook and building our teams.
America doesn’t need to change. We do. Not by abandoning our roots, but by learning how to turn those roots into capital. We have the culture, the creativity, and the courage. Now we need the contracts, the corporations, and the capital.
How Smart Promotions Could Be the Key to Survival
Why So Many Businesses Fail Each Year and How Smart Promotions Could Be the Key to Survival
Every year, millions of businesses launch with high hopes, bold ideas, and a hunger for success. Yet the harsh reality is that a significant number of them won't survive past their first few years. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 20 percent of new businesses fail within the first year, and nearly half close their doors within five.
The reasons for this high failure rate are as complex as the economy itself. Business owners today face a perfect storm of challenges: ongoing supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressure driving up costs, shrinking access to capital, and ever-present cash flow issues. Add to that the difficulties in hiring skilled labor and the growing threats of cyberattacks, and the uphill battle becomes even steeper.
But failure is not always about the macroeconomic forces at play. Sometimes, it comes down to a lack of visibility and connection with customers, a void that strategic promotions can help fill.
“Promotions are not just about slashing prices,” says Lisa Grant, a small business strategist based in Chicago. “They are about building relationships, creating urgency, and giving people a reason to choose you over the competition.”
Promotions are a vital yet often overlooked growth lever for businesses looking to scale or simply survive. Effective promotional strategies can increase brand awareness, attract new customers, and keep existing ones engaged and loyal. Whether it is a limited-time discount, a referral program, or a targeted social media campaign, promotions serve as a crucial touchpoint between a company and its audience.
The rise of digital platforms has made it easier and more affordable than ever to reach consumers directly. Tools like email marketing, influencer partnerships, and paid social media ads allow even the smallest businesses to launch impactful campaigns without the need for a massive budget. In an era where consumers are flooded with choices, a well-timed promotion can be the difference between making a sale or losing one.
Despite their benefits, many businesses either underutilize promotions or rely on outdated tactics that no longer resonate. Experts suggest that the most effective promotional strategies are those that are personalized, data-driven, and aligned with a company’s broader brand narrative.
“People want to feel seen,” says Grant. “They respond to offers that reflect their interests, habits, and values. Businesses that understand that and act on it tend to thrive.”
As millions continue to launch new ventures, spurred by the post-pandemic entrepreneurial wave and the accessibility of digital commerce, the stakes are high. The good news is that with the right strategies, including consistent and thoughtful promotion, survival is not just possible. Growth is, too.
Teacher Appreciation Night Brings Families Courtside
Teacher Appreciation Night Brings Families Courtside for Capitol Seahawks Victory at Bowie State
Bowie, Md. April 17, 2025 - Teacher Appreciation Night took center court at Bowie State University as the Capitol Seahawks faced off against the Connecticut Crusaders in a spirited college basketball matchup that brought community, education, and sports together under one roof. The game, held at the Leonidas S. James Physical Education Complex, was more than just a contest between two competitive teams. It served as a celebration of local educators and an opportunity for families to come together in appreciation of their work.
Among the attendees were local families who received special invitations to attend. One parent shared that it was the first college basketball game he and his son had experienced in person, and that enjoying it together made the night especially memorable. This was the second meeting in just over a week between the two teams. The first, also held at Bowie State on April 8, welcomed fans to an exciting in-person experience that set the tone for the April 17 rematch.
In Thursday night’s game, the Capitol Seahawks emerged victorious, defeating the Connecticut Crusaders with a final score of 105 to 96. The game began at 7 p.m. and concluded just before 10 p.m., drawing cheers from fans gathered in and around Parking Lot H, the event’s primary entry point.
The Leonidas James Physical Education Complex, located at 14000 Jericho Park Road, provided a collegiate backdrop that highlighted the importance of community support for both athletics and education. As the final buzzer sounded, the night stood as a reminder of the lasting connection between schools, families, and the power of shared experiences in and beyond the classroom.
Planting the Seeds of Legacy
Planting the Seeds of Legacy: How Andria Swanson Is Cultivating Healing and Wealth in the DMV
At a recent Black Wall Street Reimagined event at the University of Maryland, I had the privilege of meeting someone whose words stayed with me long after the event ended. Her name is Andria Swanson, a teacher, activist, and passionate humanitarian serving children and families in underserved communities across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region.
In a quiet moment between panels, Andria shared a deeply moving story about the consequences of not having life insurance, a will, or a trust in place. It wasn’t just a cautionary tale. It was personal. And it served as a powerful reminder that planning for the future is a form of love, protection, and empowerment, especially in communities that have long been denied access to generational wealth tools.
Andria is the founder and CEO of The Swanson Family Academy (SFA), an organization born from vision, purpose, and deep community roots. Her goal is to build a center where children and families can heal, learn, grow, and build the foundation for generational success. In her words, “Our program is a comprehensive community resource that offers families solution-driven, step-by-step direction, guidance, and mentorship.”
SFA is not your average nonprofit. It offers a diverse range of services including adult literacy, youth sex education, financial literacy, urban trauma healing, and community village-building programs. Each offering is carefully designed to meet people where they are and guide them toward lasting transformation.
The Academy’s mission is grounded in family values, and Andria speaks often of the ancestors who shaped her path. “Our grandfather, James Swanson, was a cotton picker with only a third-grade education,” she says. “But he became a husband, father, and a neighborhood leader who took kids on field trips and planted apple trees in the community.”
She continues with admiration, “Our grandmother, Jeanette Swanson, embodied commitment and hard work. She laid the foundation for a legacy of strength and service.”That legacy is now alive and thriving in the hands of Andria and her dedicated team of educators, mentors, and community leaders. Together, they are equipping families with the tools to overcome adversity and rewrite their futures.
In a world where we are often told what is not possible, Andria Swanson is creating space for what is. Her work is not only reshaping lives today. It is laying the groundwork for generational transformation.
And perhaps now more than ever, it is time for all of us to move from conversation to commitment. Leaders like Andria need our support. Let us ensure that those working at the heart of our communities have everything they need to educate, uplift, and empower the generations to come.
Meet and Greet With Anthony Tilghman
Anthony Tilghman Brings Proven Local Leadership to Maryland District 25 Delegate Race
Anthony Tilghman, a longtime public servant and community leader, is running for Maryland State Delegate in District 25 with a platform grounded in tangible accomplishments and a commitment to grassroots empowerment.
As Commissioner for the City of District Heights, Tilghman has spearheaded initiatives that have significantly improved municipal services and community wellbeing. He led the creation of the first in-house workforce development program in the municipality, providing residents with direct access to job opportunities and training. The initiative not only equips individuals with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive job market but also strengthens the local economy.
Recognizing the need for modernization, Tilghman oversaw the digital transformation of the District Heights Recreation Department by transitioning from paper-based systems to efficient digital platforms. This shift has enhanced accessibility and communication, making it easier for residents to engage with city programs.
Tilghman’s leadership extends beyond local governance. Through his work with the National League of Cities and Prince George’s County Council, he has successfully secured vital grant funding to support services and infrastructure in District Heights. His efforts also helped reestablish the Boys & Girls Club in the city and designate District Heights as a safe summer site, providing youth with structured, secure spaces during critical out-of-school months.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tilghman served as Constituent Services Manager for Senator Nick Charles. In that role, he coordinated the distribution of thousands of masks and meals to families in need while actively fielding constituent concerns throughout District 25. This experience deepened his understanding of the challenges residents face.
Tilghman also pioneered the first volunteer-led Safe Passage pilot program in collaboration with Prince George’s County Public Schools. This initiative was designed to ensure safer commutes for students traveling to and from school.
Now, Tilghman is aiming to bring that same hands-on, community-first approach to Annapolis. With a track record of practical solutions and a clear vision for equity, safety, and opportunity, he presents himself as a candidate ready to deliver results for District 25.