By Doni Glover, Publisher

(BALTIMORE – June 1, 2024) – When Nicole Kirby calls, I answer. Why? Because she is such a huge supporter of our efforts at BMORENews and our parent company, DMGlobal Marketing & Public Relations, LLC. Rarely does one find such a talented and gifted person willing to share resources and even pay you – when it is called for. She does not want someone to work for free, insists people get paid, and consistently has some pretty extraordinary clients. She loves business as much as I do, and it is always a pleasure to work with her.

She called recently on behalf of the Afro-American Newspaper and asked if I would attend their Black Business Matters event at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum on Thursday. I said yes. I have been busy working on my third book, but I made an exception.

Dr. Robert Draper and his wife, Wanda Draper.

When I got there, it was a homecoming – a reunion of sorts. Among the attendees were the ever-special Wanda Draper and her husband, Dr. Robert Draper. A longtime family friend and the person who launched my television career, Wanda Draper is the best friend a young journalist could have. She is rare, and it was a shock to see her. Nowadays, she’s retired (presumably) and simply living her best life.

Frances Toni Draper and her husband, Andre, were also in the house. A pastor, Mrs. Draper, is the publisher at the Afro-American Newspapers, and her son, Kevin Peck, is her right hand.

I am so proud of them. Their teamwork is above par, and they are all about the community. They kindly carry the family newspaper tradition in the highest regard and make their ancestors proud. Kevin, my Poly and Morehouse brother, is one of the kindest people I know. Also the manager of R&B group, Dru Hill, he is one brother who never let stardom change him. Rare, to say the least!

And that’s how the evening went: A constant stream of quiet giants in their own regards, outstanding individuals in their own fields – like Carolina Kitchens owner Lance London. A Morgan State University alumni, London is the quintessential serial entrepreneur. So, too, is Roger Gore who was representing his new vodka brand. And there was Baltimore’s own LaRian Finney.

In my generation, Finney has set the gold standard for business networking events.

We all stand, however, on the broader shoulders of business giants who are no longer with us, like Robert Lee Clay, Raymond V. Haysbert, and Ackneil Muldrow.

All in all, the Black Business Matters event showcased some of the best and brightest businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, and it was a very special honor to be among such accomplished people.

Great job, Afro Newspapers!