We Are Excited to Welcome our 2025 Special Guests!
The Storytellers Lab
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
Storytellers Lab a HBCU Partnership To Cultivate BIPOC Content Creators
The StoryTellers Lab
- https://deadline.com/2024/02/showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios-storytellers-lab-launches-hbcu-partnership-1235832571/
- https://www.paramountact.com/features/the-storytellers-lab
& hopefully The Tom Joyner Foundation https://tomjoynerfoundation.org
Storytellers Lab a HBCU Partnership To Cultivate BIPOC Content Creators
The StoryTellers Lab
- https://deadline.com/2024/02/showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios-storytellers-lab-launches-hbcu-partnership-1235832571/
- https://www.paramountact.com/features/the-storytellers-lab
& hopefully The Tom Joyner Foundation https://tomjoynerfoundation.org/
The Storyteller’s Lab is an immersive 9-month program designed to equip students with the essential skills to master the art of storytelling. Through dynamic workshops, comprehensive resume reviews, impactful masterclasses, and invaluable mentorship, participants are prepared for roles across creative, storyteller, and tech careers in the entertainment industry, creating a strong pipeline for trained talent. The program centers on three core pillars: Skill Development, Mentorship & Networking, and Cultural Empowerment.
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
A perfect opportunity to discuss the status of our HBCUs in today's political climate, topics on Endowments and Alumni Giving / membership, to gather and reflect on our progress, acknowledge our challenges, and look forward to the future of our beloved Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Friday,
STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
A perfect opportunity to discuss the status of our HBCUs in today's political climate, topics on Endowments and Alumni Giving / membership, to gather and reflect on our progress, acknowledge our challenges, and look forward to the future of our beloved Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Friday, August 1, 2025
12p - 2p
The Oak Bluffs Public Library
56r School St, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Currently for Programming we have:
Keynote Speaker / Guest: Dr. J / President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston https://g.co/kgs/9TH7KVM of Norfolk State University
https://g.co/kgs/bwgBQ9j
- Moderator: April Woodard, https://www.wtkr.com/april-woodard
- Gregory J. Vincent https://www.talladega.edu/uploadedFiles/File/vincent-bio.pdf served as the 21st President of Talladega College located in Talladega, Alabama
- President Jonathan Koppell https://g.co/kgs/PrjnYcV Montclair State University, Montclair New Jersey, https://www.montclair.edu/president/jonathan-g-s-koppell-biography/
Paula Harrell Wines
The Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS
Paula Harrell Wines
Paula J. Harrell is a San Francisco native and founder of P. Harrell Wines. She is the daughter of an immigrant mother from Panama and an American military father, who raised her and her four siblings and built a series of thriving residential care facilities in San Francisco. https://pharrellwines.com/
Paula describes her passion: ”Th
Paula J. Harrell is a San Francisco native and founder of P. Harrell Wines. She is the daughter of an immigrant mother from Panama and an American military father, who raised her and her four siblings and built a series of thriving residential care facilities in San Francisco. https://pharrellwines.com/
Paula describes her passion: ”The creation of P. Harrell Wines has emerged from my long standing passion and appreciation for wine, from the smell of freshly picked grapes after a successful harvest to sampling wines in barrel, and ultimately indulging in the enchanting wine culture with others. I love all things wine because it is one of those simple pleasures that seamlessly intertwine people from ALL walks of life, no matter the color, gender, or background, creating genuine friendships & connections.”
Legacy Week on the Vineyard 2025 Schedule
Daily
- PICK UP YOUR BINGO CARD from Sideline https://sidelinebrand.com/ 49 Main St, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 for a grand prize announced 8/1 830a @ The Inkwell [ See Attached ]
- PICK UP YOUR BLACK OWNED BUSINESS DIRECTORY OF MARTHA’S VINEYARD https://www.blackownedmv.com/
- 630a - 730a Daily Yoga
w/ Natalie Cosby [ Xavier University ] https://www.blackownedbrooklyn.com/stories/stacked-yoga ] TICKETS: https://events.eventnoire.com/e/stacked-yoga-mv-at-inkwell-beach
- 730a - 830a Polar Bear Swims
@ The Inkwell https://www.today.com/news/news/marthas-vineyard-polar-bear-group-began-safe-space-black-swimmers-cont-rcna44589
- Continue your workout regime...or begin one... @ the Martha's Vineyard YMCA ask for the daily or weekly offer of 50% off ONLY for the dates of July 27 - Aug. 2nd, 2025
- Beaches of Martha's Vineyard https://www.mvy.com/beaches-marthas-vineyard/
- FAMU
Rattlers on the Vineyard https://www.rattlersonthevineyard.com/
- HBCU SECTION @ The Oak Bluffs Public Library. Every day is a cause for celebration in Oak Bluffs in the summer! Look out for the display space for HBCU books and the honoring the authors who are here.
- MV Documentary Week https://mvfilmsociety.com/documentary-week-marthas-vineyard/
- Nightly Parties
9p - 1230a
- Order Sheryl on the Beach
[ summer signature series cocktail ] { Tequila, Pineapple
, Mint & Ginger Beer
] @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant hhttps://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
EAT
- https://www.blackownedmv.com/where-to-eat
- https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-marthas-vineyard
- [Black Owned] Chef Deon's Kitchen https://www.chefdeon.com/
- [Black Owned ] Biscuits [MON - SUN 7a-3p] https://www.mvbiscuits.com/
- [ Black Owned ] Fat Ronny's Burger https://fatronniesburgerbar.com/
- [ Black Owned ] Black Joy Kitchen https://www.blackjoykitchen.com/
- [ Black Owned ] Edgartown Diner https://edgartowndiner.com/Edgartown Diner 65 Main St, Edgartown, MA 02539
- [ Black Owned ] 11 Circuit https://www.elevencircuit.com/ 11 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs
- [ Black Owned ] Winston's kitchen https://www.winstonskitchen-mv.com/
- [ Black Owned Genos BBQ https://www.genosbackyardbbq.com/
- [Black Owned] Mocha Motts https://www.mochamotts.com/
- [Black Owned] Vineyard Caribbean Cusine https://www.vineyardcaribbeancuisine.com/
- Back Door Donuts - rated #5 Donut Shop in The U.S.! https://www.backdoordonuts.com/
- [Vegan Option] The Pawnee House https://www.thepawneehousemv.com/
- https://theblackdog.com/pages/the-black-dog-tavern
- Midnight Tacos https://www.midnighttacomv.com/
- El Barco Tacos https://elbarcomv.com/
- [Obama sightings] https://www.salvatoresristorante.com/
- [Obama sightings] https://www.redcatkitchen.com/
- [Obama sightings] https://www.atlanticmv.com/
- [Obama sighting ] Sweet life cafe https://www.sweetlifemv.com/
- Tony's Market https://www.tonysmarketmv.com/
- Artcliff [ great breakfast ] http://artcliffdiner.com
- Simone's Belgian waffles https://simonesbelgianwaffles.com/
- Behind the Bookstore - speakeasy-ish vibes https://www.btbmv.com/
- Atria https://www.atriamv.com/
- Alchemy Bistro & Bar https://www.alchemyedgartown.com/
- Pizza Giordano's https://www.giosmv.com/
- 19 Raw Oyster Bar https://www.19rawoysterbar.com/
- The Bite, Menemsha, https://www.instagram.com/thebitemenemsha/?hl=en
- For a drink The Pelican Club https://www.farawaymarthasvineyard.com/pelican-club?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gbp
- For a drink, order the Dirty Bana by Donovan's Reef [via Jamaica] @ Nancy's https://www.nancysrestaurant.com/menu
- Scottish Bakehouse https://www.scottishbakehousemv.com/
- Rosewater Market https://www.rosewatermv.com/
- Coop de Ville https://www.coopdevilleshuckshack.com/
EXPERIENCE
- https://www.blackownedmv.com/
- African American Heritage Trail https://mvafricanamericanheritagetrail.org/black-businesses/
- Black Owned Hostspots on MV https://www.sistersletter.com/travel/black-owned-marthas-vineyard?fbclid=IwY2xjawLasS5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHmR9NpTkbDeIyInXaGffdu6GEtz6w3XhlEhXiOydhA7Th8TEv4oGH-erYPyX_aem_ZXYYNxeJGucnFwkOZ2-rWA&sfnsn=mo
- Healed Retreat Foundation Inc. They are planning on running many specials during Legacy week and offering a discount code for HBCU members only to our advanced therapies especially Liposculpt and HBOT amongst many other wonderful therapies. https://drroniretreats.my.canva.site/healedtherapyandspa
- Flying Horses Flying Horses Carousel a Vineyard Preservation Trust Property https://g.co/kgs/XhtZepg
- Movie Night? Edgartown Cinemas https://www.yourneighborhoodtheatre.com/edgartown-cinema-2
- Boch Park, Vineyard Haven, waterfront, allowing public access to the Beach Road property. Wedged between the MV Tap restaurant and the Martha’s Vineyard Times. Set on a 31,000 square foot lot, the park has colorful flowers surrounding a circular lawn, with benches set on the edge for parkgoers to sit and enjoy the plants and oceanview. The park will be open from morning to dusk. There is no parking. https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2025/07/02/boch-park-opens-vineyard-haven
- Alpaca Farm Island Alpaca Company https://g.co/kgs/F9n2Z5g
- Need somewhere quiet to work? https://www.havenmv.com/
- DAY TRIP TO NANTUCKET for the African American Museum https://www.maah.org/nantucket-location curated w/ Howard University alumnae https://blackmuseums.org/dr-noelle-trent/
- Beaches https://www.mvy.com/beaches-marthas-vineyard/
- Martha's Vineyard Museum https://mvmuseum.org/
- GinerBread Houses https://www.bostonmagazine.com/property/2021/07/01/gingerbread-houses-oak-bluffs-history/
- Where to find the best Sunsets: https://www.mvy.com/2024/10/26/marthas-vineyard-best-sunset/
- Gayhead Cliffs / Aquinnah https://gomarthasvineyard.com/places-go-things-do/gay-head-cliffs
- Documentary DOC WEEK https://mvfilmsociety.com/2025/06/doc-week-all-access-pass-6/
- Rent a Bike https://www.mvy.com/2024/08/21/biking-on-marthas-vineyard/
- 7/30th 530p - 830p Waves of Remembering: Ancestral Healing and Transformation on Martha’s Vineyard Honoring the Past, Healing the Present, Awakening the Future https://seeingwithyourheart.com/events/
- Featherstone Art Gallery - 'Interiority' July 27 - Aug 17th https://www.featherstoneart.org/galleryshows.html
- Friday's 6p - 9p Noman’s Outdoor Dance Party w/ Martha's Vineyard's own DJ Smooth B https://www.nomansmv.com/events
- Forest Bathing https://www.pollyhillarboretum.org/
- All the Ways You Can Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jaws https://www.shelbystar.com/story/entertainment/movies/2025/06/16/jaws-trivia-50th-anniversary-facts/84223285007/ & https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/movies/a65075571/how-to-watch-jaws-stream-50th-anniversary/ & How Martha’s Vineyard became the most important character in Jaws Fifty years later, an oral history of the most New England movie in history. https://www.boston.com/culture/entertainment/2025/06/17/how-marthas-vineyard-became-the-most-important-character-in-jaws-2/
- Mytoi contemplative Japanese-inspired stroll garden, Martha’s Vineyard, https://thetrustees.org/place/mytoi/
- Things to Do on Martha’s Vineyard: Top 23 Most Unique Spots https://stantonhouseinn.com/things-to-do-on-marthas-vineyard-attractions?fbclid=IwY2xjawLBVmRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFvUHdYWk93SERMQksza0MwAR7OBtyY3IFWKkog_qG_wko1qLP8d_-ZqI4jThluhdkuKznSZx9baUNTf9tKpA_aem_uKF1glw86b7bZG4e-2Iz5A
- 8/10 Pastor Jamal Bryant Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, 80 Trinity Park, Oak Bluffs
- Sunrise / Sunset Kayaking https://www.islandspiritkayak.com/
- 10a - 2p Thur. 7/31https://vineyardartisans.com/summer-festivals/ at the Historic Grange Hall in West Tisbury. A Vineyard Summer tradition and the only weekly juried art show where the public can meet over 70 Island artisans and buy directly from them. Free parking, free admission, great food, and a playground for kids.
- Oak Bluffs Public Libary - Check their Calendar https://oakbluffslibrary.org/
- Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary https://www.massaudubon.org/places-to-explore/wildlife-sanctuaries/felix-neck
- [Black Owned] Knowhere Art Galley [2] locations 91 Dukes County Ave, O.B. & 73 Circuit Ave #724,O.B.
- MEDITATION Bodhi Path Buddhist Center 21 Laurand Drive, West Tisbury, MA 02575 http://bodhipath.org/marthasvineyard group meditation Tuesday and Thursday 6 to 7 p.m., and Sunday 10 to 11 a.m. Sessions are available both in person at Bodhi Path, 21 Laurand Drive, West Tisbury and online via Zoom. Go to bodhipath.org/marthasvineyard for Zoom link.
SHOP
- https://www.blackownedmv.com/
- [ Black Woman Owned ] ISLAND LIFE STUDIO https://www.mvislandlifestudio.com/
- [ Black Owned ] Sideline https://sidelinebrand.com/
- [ Black Owned ] C'est La Vie https://www.facebook.com/cestlaviemv/
- [ Black Owned ] Jubilee https://jubileemv.myshopify.com/
- [ Black Owned ] M&R Stylz [ right next to 11 Circuit ] https://www.instagram.com/mandrstylz?igsh=MTRraGVrY2w5ejFqZA==
- https://theblackdog.com/
- Morning Glory Farms https://morninggloryfarm.com/
- Stop & Shop Grocery Store - Vineyard Haven 50 Water St, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 & Edgartown 245 Vineyard Haven Road, Edgartown, MA 02539 - GET YOUR LOYALTY CARD
- Cheapest GAS on the Island Shell Gas - GET YOUR LOYALTY CARD for up to 6 Cents off Address: 86 Beach Rd, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Lobster Rolls
- https://www.mvseafood.com/
- https://www.lookoutmv.com/
- https://chowdermv.com/home-page
- https://www.nomansmv.com/home-2
- https://www.menemshafishmarket.com/
- https://www.graceepiscopalmv.org/summer-lobster-rolls.html
- 7/29 @ 430p Lobster rolls and clam chowder at the American Legion Post 257. Takeout and indoor seating available. 47 Martin Road, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
- 7/29 @ 430p Summer Lobster Rolls at Chilmark Community Church Chilmark Community Church, Back Terrace, 9 Menemsha Crossroad, Chilmark
Tickets will soon be available on here
Sunday, July 27th
- 830a Self-Guided Labyrinth Walk https://www.massaudubon.org/places-to-explore/wildlife-sanctuaries/felix-neck
- 930a Worship Service @ Union Chapel https://www.unionchapelmv.org/ 2025 Join us for featured speaker Rev. Frederick Haynes,III, Ph.D., Senior Pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas https://www.friendshipwest.org/our-pastor
- 11a - 3p Sunday Soul Brunch w/ DJ Damon Dee @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant hhttps://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
- 7p Bowling* https://www.thebarnmv.com/ [ optional ]
- 7p Dinner [ at will / optional ]
- 9p - 1230a Nightly Party [ DC's Go- Go music ] Dedicated to HBCU Howard U. Alumni > DJ Damon Dee of Norfolk U. https://www.instagram.com/djdamondee/ @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant hhttps://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
Monday, July 28
- 630a Yoga w/ Natalie [Xavier U. ] @ The Inkwell
- 9a Breakfast @ [ Black Owned ] Biscuits [ suggestion ] https://www.mvbiscuits.com/
- *JAWS Bridge [ suggestion ] https://www.mvy.com/jaws-on-marthas-vineyard/
- 3p - 6p LEGACY WEEK Welcome Reception @ [ Black Owned ] Sideline https://sidelinebrand.com/ 49 Main St, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 Presentations, Wine by Black woman-owned P. Harrel Wines https://pharrellwines.com/ & [HBCU Hampton U. Alumnae Black Female owned New England Sweetwater https://www.newenglandsweetwater.com/ Snacks served
- 6p - 8p Beauty & The Beach Sunset @ Menemsha Beach https://www.marthasvisit.com/beaches/menemsha-public-beach
- 9p - 1230a Nightly Party [ The Ohio Players tribute ] Dedicated to HBCU Wilberforce & Central State w/ DJ Brina Payne https://www.brinapayne.com/ @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant hhttps://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
Tuesday, July 29th
- 630a Yoga w/ Natalie [Xavier U. ] @ The Inkwell
- 10a - 12p Interview & Podcast w/ The Chi Cast https://g.co/kgs/4b945qz (Time TBD) MVY Zoom [ virtual ]
- 10 - 1p Shop on Circuit Ave / Beach [ optional ]
- 10a The Art of Beading Learn the art of knotting between beads, and choosing the right beading technique for each kind of bead. https://featherstoneart.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/featherstoneart/eventRegistration.jsp?event=4223
- 12p - 1pm Calling all College Students & / or those interested in the Film Industry! [ @ The Oak Bluffs Library ] The Storytellers Lab https://www.paramountact.com/features/the-storytellers-lab Welcomes all to engage with Ms. Taylor K. Shaw, Head of Film Outreach Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/, the crowdfunding platform designed to support creative endeavors.https://variety.com/2025/film/news/kickstarter-indie-producer-taylor-k-shaw-film-outreach-1236326952/
Calling All HBCU Students, College Creatives & Future Filmmakers! Join Us for a Free Film & Storytelling Workshop
Date: Tuesday, July 29
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Join via zoom - https://paramount.zoom.us/j/8312697889#success- 1p - 5p Virtual HBCU Art tour featuring Art pieces and history from [ The AUC ] The Atlanta University Center Consortium https://aucenter.edu/ Atlanta University HBCU Day! Featuring Virtual Art tour of HBCU Art Collections of: Robert W. Woodruff Library, Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College and Morehouse College. This event is presented by Dr. Kimberly Bugg, Director of Robert W. Woodruff Library (www.auctr.edu ) and Valerie Cooper, Director of HBCU Digital Art Project https://www.picturethatconsultants.com/hbcu-digitalartproject @ The Oak Bluffs Public Library. This unique virtual tour will highlight rare and iconic artworks from HBCU collections, providing insight into the rich artistic legacy of the AUC. A celebration of culture, scholarship, and creativity — this is a must-attend event for art lovers, history buffs, and HBCU supporters alike. Hosted by: Valerie A. Cooper, Community Outreach Liaison, Smithsonian American Art Museum, take a behind -the-scence tour of the rich fine art and archival collections of the Atlantic University Center - the nation's larges consortium of HBCUs. Explore the powerful stories held in the collections of Clark Atlantic University Art Museum, Morehouse College, Spelman College Museum of the Fine Art, the AUC Art Collective, and the AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library.
- *Beach Clean Up w/ https://hbcugreenfund.org/ [ tentative / tbd / tba ] / https://vineyardgazette.com/photography/vineyarders-give-beaches-helping-hand-earth-day
- 5p-7p Opening Remarks @ The Martha's Vineyard Museum from Sheryl Wesley, Founder & Producer of Legacy Week along with ParamontTV's HBCU initiave The Storytellers Lab introducing The Power of Images: A Journey Into a World on the Edge of Change with HBCU alumnae Glenda Jones showing photos from her time in the Omo of the various people, as they go through their daily life. Members $25 & Non Members $30 tix
- 6p The Sip & Shop Experience @ Jubilee https://jubileemv.myshopify.com/ 42 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
- 6p - 8p Late Library Lounge Looking for a peaceful place to work, study, or unwind with a good book after hours? Join us for Late Night Library Lounge—a calm, quiet environment where you can make the most of the library’s relaxed atmosphere after closing time. https://oakbluffslibrary.org/event/late-night-library-lounge-2/
- 730p Dinner [ Support Black Businesses ] Black Joy Kitchen https://www.blackjoykitchen.com/ / 11 Circuit / Chef Deon's Kitchen https://www.chefdeon.com/ [ optional ]
- 9p - 1230a Powered by EventNOIRE https://www.eventnoire.com/ [ Quincy Jones Tribute Dance Party w/ DJ Monday Blue https://www.djmondayblue.com/ Dedicated HBCU Stillman College @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant hhttps://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
Wednesday, July 30th
- 630a Yoga w/ Natalie [Xavier U. ] @ The Inkwell
- 8a - 915a Mat Pilates - Judy Oak Bluffs, 80 Trinity Park, Oak Bluffs, BYO Mat $15 per class All levels welcome!
- 930a Breakfast [ optional ] @ Edgartown Diner or 11 Circuite [ Black Owned ] https://edgartowndiner.com/
- 10a - 12p or 2p StoryTellers AA Tour
- 11a - 1p Art & Soul Stroll
https://www.artsinob.com/ Start point [ TBA ] then we visit 6 - 7 art galleries [ 1 - 3 Black owned ] refreshments will be served w/ a raffle drawing @ the end, including wine tasting by https://pharrellwines.com/ [ Cousen Rose Gallery https://g.co/kgs/xp944m4 ] 71 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
- 2p Building Generational Wealth through Franchising w/ Spelman Alumna The Honorable Dee Clemmons https://g.co/kgs/BwGkR1L @ The Oak Bluffs Public Library https://oakbluffslibrary.org/
- 4p - 6p A’Lelia Bundles presenting Joy Goddess: A'Lelia Walker and the Harlem Renaissance seekers. https://calendar.vineyardgazette.com/featherstone_center_for_the_arts
- 5-7p Jim Thomas dedication @ The MV Museum https://www.mvtimes.com/jim-thomas-spirituals-choir-jpg-2/
- 6-8p Spelman Sistas on the Vineyard - Beach Picnic https://events.eventnoire.com/e/spelman-sisters-on-the-vineyard-picnic-2025?fbclid=IwY2xjawJmJ8xleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHv0gjuU239IQTKvbFIkEGVRVWxHPiVNYYKB0pW_CrS6jUmaGogbl__nJIb2X_aem_1UzHKS7R6mwgYiEzQcnCaQ
- 9p - 1230a Nightly Party I Put A Spell on You Dedicated HBCU Spelman College Alumna w/ Spelman Alumnae DJ Monday Blue
https://www.djmondayblue.com/ @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant https://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
Thursday, July 31st
- 530a Sheryl on the Beach Sunrise Sip & Sea The Inkwell - Watch the sunrise w/ us https://www.facebook.com/share/1BasgDE1Ni/ [ location to be determined ]
- 630a Yoga w/ Natalie [Xavier U. ] @ The Inkwell
- 12P -2P | Self-Reflection Workshop: Session 2 @MV Radio w/ The Storytellers Lab
- 10a - 2p African American Heritage Trail https://mvafricanamericanheritagetrail.org/ & Aquinnah Cliffs https://mvafricanamericanheritagetrail.org/black-businesses/
- 11a -2p Fishing [ 6 slots ] https://www.facebook.com/mybrothercharters/
- ** Lunch @ 11 Circuit ** [ optional ]
- 1P - 4P New England Sweetwater tasting @ Black Joy Kitchen
- 230p 330p Relax time / beach
- 3p Sankofa Festival Begins @ Oak Bluffs Library https://oakbluffslibrary.org/sankofa/
- 5-6p Anchored in Purpose: HBCUs Navigating Today, Shaping TomorrowFeatured Speakers: Ja'Ron Smith, Former Deputy Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy and Deputy Director of the White House Office of American Innovation, under the first Trump Administration, and Dr. Joseph Leonard, VP,External Affairs, Howard University Moderated by: Shawna Francis Watley, Senior Policy Advisor [ @ The Oak Bluffs Libary ]
- 7p Netflix Forever Screening Episode 5 w/ a discussion with director Mara Brock Akil https://circuitarts.thundertix.com/events/249631
- 8p Screening of The Chi & Cast Q&A [ MVAAFF ]
- 9p - 1230a Night of The Divine 9 w/DJ Dern https://www.vineyardspin.com/ [ party ] Bring your BGLO paraphernalia @ 11 Circuit Bar & Restaurant https://www.instagram.com/elevencircuit/?hl=en
Friday, August 1st
** Yoga Cancelled ** due to rain
630a Yoga w/ Natalie [Xavier U. ] @ The Inkwell
830a Bingo Card Winner[s] Announced @ TheOak Bluffs Library @ 11a
- 10a - 2p & 5p - 11p First Friday in Vineyard Haven https://www.firstfridayvh.com/
- 10a Sankofa Festival @ Oak Bluffs Library https://oakbluffslibrary.org/sankofa/
- 11a Educated Flows: HBCUs and the Legacy of the Hip Hop Generation Discussion w/ Delaware State U. Alumni / Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity https://apa1906.net/ Chuck Creekmore of All Hip Hop. com [will be zoomed in] www.allhiphop.com, Grammy Award winning producer and poet, Malik Yusef https://share.google/VwNU9KlUs7b1j0YF4 [ will be zoomed in ] & Bryna Jean-Marie [ in-person ], Chief Communications Officer and Chief Storytelling Officer of The Hip Hop Museum ☆☆ For The Sankofa Festival https://oakbluffslibrary.org/sankofa/
- 12p-2p Inaugural Annual STATE of the HBCUnion ADDRESS @ Oak Bluffs Public Library A perfect opportunity to discuss the status of our HBCUs in today's political climate, topics on Endowments and Alumni Giving / membership, to gather and reflect on our progress, acknowledge our challenges, and look forward to the future of our beloved Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Keynote Speaker / Guest: Dr. J / President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston https://g.co/kgs/9TH7KVM of Norfolk State University
https://g.co/kgs/bwgBQ9j Moderator: April Woodard, https://www.wtkr.com/april-woodard Panelists: Gregory J. Vincent https://www.talladega.edu/uploadedFiles/File/vincent-bio.pdf served as the 21st President of Talladega College located in Talladega, Alabama, President Jonathan Koppell https://g.co/kgs/PrjnYcV Montclair State University, Montclair New Jersey, https://www.montclair.edu/president/jonathan-g-s-koppell-biography/ and Invited * National Alumni Association President: Kandace Harris https://alum.howard.edu/huaa/leadership, [ HUAA ] Howard University - 3p - 6p FRIDAY'S ONLY >>Best* Lobster Rolls @[Church] Grace Episcopal Church Address: Woodlawn & William St, Woodlawn Ave, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 go on app or call to pre-order 508-693-0332 https://www.graceepiscopalmv.org/summer-lobster-rolls.html
- 4p-6p Reception for Ujima The National Center on Violence Against Women in the Black Community, addresses the pervasive issues of sexual assault, and domestic and community violence within the Black Community. We champion the empowerment and resilience of Black women and girls. https://ujimacommunity.org/
- 6p - 730p Brother's Y'all Alright? Cigars, Cocktails, and Conversations about The Power of Place [ private home ] Address will be released [ 2] hrs before the event. [Oak Bluffs]
- Martha's Vineyard African American Film Festival begins MVAAFF https://www.mvaaff.com/ Aug 1 - 9
- 9p Film Festival Reception - invite only
- 8p Drive-In Movie: Little Shop of Horrors https://www.driveinmv.com/littleshopofhorrors Gates open @715p film begins @ 8p, 1hr. 34min. Rated PG-13 Tickets for this screening are general-admission and pay-what-you-can. The suggested ticket price is $40. If you can pay more, they will greatly appreciate it!
Saturday, August 2nd
- The Oak Bluffs Public Library Sankofa Festival https://oakbluffslibrary.org/sankofa/
- 10a - 1130a Carolyn Quick Tillery author of the Historical Black College and University (HBCU) Cookbook Series https://www.instagram.com/carolyn_tillery/ @ The Oak Bluffs Public Library
- 3p HBCUArts: Chamber Music for a Cause, Showcasing Excellence in HBCU Classical Composition www.hbcu-arts.org
- 4p - 8P DAY PARTY @ 11 CIRCUIT
- Nightly Party DJ TBA / Reggae Criss Cross
- Farewell. 2026 Dates July 26 - Aug 1st
IN TODAY'S NEWS
Home-Sewn-Fabric-Reflection-Ralph-Laurens-Tribute-Black-Oak-bluffs
And this moment in fashion converges so beautifully with Legacy Week on the Vineyard (July 27–August 2, 2025)—our annual homecoming of HBCU alumni and families hosted right here in Oak Bluffs. Legacy Week is a weeklong celebration created to engage, empower, and highlight the bond and value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities through curated experiences that include beachside yoga, storytelling circles, literary panels, cookbook author talks, musical performances, and more. Events like the Spelman Sisters on the Vineyard Picnic, Stacked Yoga at Inkwell, and fireside chats foster intergenerational connection and cultural pride.
Ralph Lauren pays homage to generations of Black Martha's Vineyard visitors in a new collection The
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/ralph-lauren-black-marthas-vineyard-oak-bluffs-rcna221968
Ralph Lauren pays homage to generations of Black Martha's Vineyard visitors in a new collection The way Sheryl Wesley sees it, the collection represents deference to the deep history of Black people on this island about 90 miles south of Boston. “What it has done is illuminate what we’ve already been doing here for years,” said Wesley, a Howard University graduate who organizes HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard, a multiday celebration of Black culture featuring social, professional and political events. Locations like Inkwell Beach and the Shearer Cottage, though created out of the forces of racism, have become sites steeped in history. The Ralph Lauren campaign launches as “Black August” approaches, with events like HBCU Legacy Week and the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. Wesley said the collection and campaigns have reflected strongly on Oak Bluffs’ history and the community’s ties to HBCUs. “He did a great job of making this campaign feel organic and authentic,” Wesley said of the designer. “And he did it very carefully, with a scalpel instead of an ax.” We’ve been here,” Wesley said. “We’re going to be here during the campaign launch, and after it.”
About Legacy Week on the Vineyard
2025
Sunday, July 27 - Saturday, August 2nd
The Ferry
IF you drive... ferry reservations USUALLY open in Jan/Feb FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS! Check @steamship authority https://m.steamshipauthority.com/ [MV Ferry] for updates! At some point I will be having a MV 101 "webinar" for First Time visitors!
Ferry port on the mainland is Woods Hole. There are 2 ports on the Island. [ you must say ON Martha's Vineyard...NOT in MV ] #1 Vineyard Haven and #2 Oak Bluffs.
Accomodations
A good start is www.weneedavacation.com for accomodations! This site strictly focuses on Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod, and Nantucket. When booking MV DO NOT Stay on the mainland..... if you see Falmouth or Mashpee, or Woods Hole... those are towns on the mainland. You want to be ONLY on Martha's Vineyard!
Use 11 Circuit Ave, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557 as a point of reference for distance as far as your accommodations. You TYPICALLY do NOT want to be more than 15 min. driving from that address.
Here are towns to consider:
- Oak Bluffs [ you must say Oak BluffS..... NOT OakS Bluff ], East Chop, West Chop
- Vineyard Haven [ Tisbury, West Tisbury, West Chop ]
- Edgartown
Airport Code is MVY do NOT think Martha's Vineyard is Boston
Ask Carleen Cordwell <carleen168@gmail.com> for rental information as an additional resource 5083333078
Talk of the Town
SHEnanigans
https://www.youtube.com/live/AA1agTlzX64?si=R9DSVZLCNRocY1UB
Discover Legacy Week on the Vineyard
Celebrating HBCU Legacy on the Island
- HBCU Presidents, Dr. Reynold Verret [ Xavier University, Louisanna, Sheryl Wesley, Founder, Legacy Week on the Vineyard, and Dr. Rochelle Ford [ Dillard University ].
https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2024/07/25/celebrating-hbcu-legacy-island
Community
Fireside Chat: Brother’s, Y'all Alright? Cigars, Cocktails & Conversations about The Power of Place
The panel and discussion are designed to provide a holistic experience for Black Men to impact them to their core & give them tools & strategies they can implement to better their lives and those around them. It is our duty to create a space for Black Men to build community, legacy, health, and wealth.
WORKING [ relevant ] TOPICS:
- Relationships
- Sex
- Men's [ mental / physical ] Health
- Family Head [ family structure / Spirituality / finances ]
- Self Care / Love
- Pour Into You session - affirmation exercises
https://www.mvtimes.com/2024/08/14/comradery-in-the-community/
EventNoire link of 2025 Legacy Week on the Vineyard
Sign Up Here for 2025's List of Events - in progress
MV 101: Know Before You Go!
Never Been to Martha's Vineyard? Join for a chit chat on the in's & out's of my 'Happy Place!'
Details
- Q&A forum
- How to Get to MV
- Where to Stay
- How to Get Around
- Solo Travelers
- What to Do
- Things to Do
- What to Say
- What to Wear
- For the Kids
https://events.eventnoire.com/e/2025s-mv-101-know-before-you-go-2
I don't know Everything... but I know a lot! :)
Let's Talk This Through!
About Us
2025 Dates!
July 27th - August 2nd
Media Mentions
Our Family is Growing
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/ralph-lauren-black-marthas-vineyard-oak-bluffs-rcna221968
https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2023/07/19/oak-bluffs-town-column-july-21
What Destinations are Black Travelers Targeting in 2022? | TravelPulse
The Vineyard Vibe – Your Travel Guide to "Afro-Centric "Martha's Vineyard
Fourth Annual Legacy Week from the HBCU returns - The Martha's Vineyard Times (mvtimes.com)
Beach Excursions and Black History: Martha's Vineyard and More (sistersletter.com)
HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard Martha's Vineyard Times Calendar (mvtimes.com)
https://www.mvtimes.com/2018/07/24/legacy-week-hbcu/
https://divagalsdaily.com/best-month-marthas-vineyard-august-week-in-july/
https://mvol.com/events/hbcus-legacy-week-vineyard/
