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2024 Special Guests

Bone Crusher Photo "Bonecrusher"
Entertainer
More about "Bonecrusher" . . .

"Bonecrusher" AKA Wayne Hardnett Jr. is an American rapper and hip hop producer. He is credited as being one of the inventors of the crunk sound. In 2003, at the height of his career, his debut album AttenCHUN! reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, and his debut single "Never Scared" reached the top 10 on the R&B and Rap charts. The success of the single led him to win a Source Award along with a Grammy Award nomination and an American Music Awards nomination. "Never Scared" was the theme song for the 2003 Atlanta Braves MLB, and was featured in the Madden NFL 2004 video game. Read more . . .

Jimmi Littles Photo Jimmi Littles, III
Master of Ceremonies
More about Jimmi . . .

Jimmi is a professional master of ceremonies and event host. He embodies the elements of class, wit, and charm which captivate the audience. Known as an eloquent speaker, Jimmi tactfully interactives and engages with the public. Some of his hosting duties include the world-acclaimed UniverSoul Circus in Atlanta GA. He has also provided voice-overs for various companies. Read more . . .

Kiplyn Primus Photo Kiplyn Primus
Guest Host & Tasting Judge
More about Kiplyn . . .

Kiplyn hosts The Local Take With Kiplyn Primus. This public affairs show features discussions about critical issues facing Atlanta and profiles of organizations doing important work in the communities served by WCLK. Kiplyn is a graduate of Howard University with a BA inJournalism and English. Additionally, she graduated from Clark Atlanta University, where she obtained an MBA in Marketing. Read more . . .

Chris Cocktails Photo E. Christopher "Cocktails" Cornell
Guest Host
More about "Cocktails" . . .

E. Christopher "Cocktails" Cornell always deliver high-energy performances that leave listeners on the edge of their seats. He has been wowing crowds with his colorful prose for the past twenty years. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University, Mr. Cornell got his start in promoting and hosting events during his college days as Student Government President. After college, he founded E Period, LLC. Read more . . .

Tom Jones Photo Tom Jones
Guest Host
More about Tom . . .

Tom Jones is a native of Houston, Texas. He graduated from Texas Southern University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Tom has reported the news in Amarillo, Texas, Shreveport, Louisiana and Las Vegas. He has worked at WSB-TV as a General Assignment Reporter for more than a decade. Tom considers himself a news junkie. He enjoys covering crime and court stories. Read more . . .

Willie Anderson Photo "Mr. Geminii"
Entertainer
More about "Mr. Geminii" . . .

"Mr. Geminii" also known as Willie Will Anderson, is an independent R&B artist and owner, manager, and CEO of Southern Gentleman's Production Incorporations. His successful album ("100% R&B") have included hits such as: "Queen for a Day", "Let's Make This Happen", "It's My Party", "Separate Ways", "I Need My Girl Back", and the fan-favorite "Dismissed". Mr. Geminii's smooth and silky voice always captures the attention of his audience. Read more . . .

Stepp Stewart Photo Stepp Stewart
Entertainer
More about Stepp . . .

Stepp Stewart has been in show business for over 30 years touring in the United States, Europe, and Japan with his company Dynamite Productions. He attended Ohio State University with continuing studies in New York City. Stepp is best known as the Dance Fitness Star of the Emmy award-winning television show, The Dr. Oz Show. He has worked with Tony-award winning legends such as Ben Vereen and Jennifer Holliday. Read more . . .

MzWallstreet Photo Michelle "Mz Wallstreet" Hodges
Entertainer
More about "Mz Wallstreet" . . .

"Mz Wallstreet" AKA Michelle Hodges has performed as an actress, comedienne, poet, celebrity mistress of ceremonies, and plus-size model. Her unique flair during her high-energy performances consists of colloquial flavors from the North and the South. She has graced the stage as an opening act for Slick Rick, Jon B, Mint Condition, Dru Hill, Jodeci, and Theodis Ealey. Read more . . .

Kevin Ashford Photo Kevin Ashford
Celebrity Chef
More about Kevin . . .

Kevin is Director & Chief Operating Officer at Catered Cakes which specializes in creating The Ultimate Dessert Experience for all occasions. Chef Kevin's company focuses on delivering high quality and bespoke confectionery creations that include custom and traditional flavors, designs and consultation. Food is art and art is an experience. Let Catered Cakes curate yours. Read more . . .

Johnnie Winston Photo Johnnie Winston, III
Celebrity Chef
More about Johnnie . . .

Johnnie is the owner of a successful company called Exclusive Designs, LLC. His establishment is a full-service event planning and catering company that also specializes in floral arrangements and drapery. Chef Johnnie served Chargrilled Salmon Bites and Bourbon BBQ Meatballs. He has been an active part of the Family Food Fest Atlanta team for many years. Read more . . .

Raúl Thomas Photo Raúl Thomas
Celebrity Chef
More about Raúl . . .

Raúl is a New York native of Puerto Rican descent. He discovered his culinary identity at a young age, watching his mother cook typical Puerto Rican dishes. He is the founder and owner of RT Hospitality Group where he operates Raúl's Catering Service. Chef Raúl's versatility has expanded with the recent release of several cooking videos. He served vegetarian tacos to patrons. Read more . . .

Marvin Arrington Photo Marvin Arrington, Jr.
Honorary Chair
More about Marvin . . .

Marvin Arrington, Jr. is a renowned lawyer with over 25 years of litigation and judicial process and serves as District 5 Commissioner of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. Mr. Arrington, Jr. has created opportunities to provide education, entertainment, and empowerment to GA communities through his various entrepreneurial enterprises and civic initiatives. Read more . . .

Melvin Coleman Photo Melvin Coleman
Honorary Chair
More about Melvin . . .

Melvin is the President & CEO for the Atlanta Black Chambers (ABC), an organization of over 1,000 Entrepreneurs committed to the creation and growth of competitive, profitable and sustainable Black owned entities. During his time as Executive Director, the Chamber had experienced phenomenal growth in both membership and programming. Read more . . .

Jamahl L. King Photo Jamahl L. King
Honorary Chair
More about Jamahl . . .

Jamahl is the founder of S.T.E.P.S. Event Planning Firm, Inc. which is a full-service event planning firm. They has a well-respected staff skilled in handling everything from event conception to completion. Jamahl graduated in 1993 from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA studying Mass Communications. He is an active part of the Family Food Fest Atlanta team. Read more . . .

Nancy Flake Johnson Photo Nancy Flake Johnson
Honorary Chair
More about Nancy Flake . . .

Nancy Flake Johnson is the President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Atlanta (ULGA). She is an advocate, educator, coach, collaborator, strategist, and champion for closing the racial wealth gap. She is dedicated to advancing the Black community through promoting civic engagement, improved race relations, and equity for all people. In her tenure, Nancy has more than tripled the size of the ULGA. Read more . . .

Pastor Brandyn C. Pierce Photo Pastor Brandyn C. Pierce
Invocation & Honorary Chair
More about Pastor Pierce . . .

Pastor Pierce is the visionary founder of The Place of Change Church, an innovative church with a very comprehensive vision to reach the world for Christ and Help believer become devoted Christ Followers. Pastor Brandyn strives to amplify the voice of the marginalized by challenging the conventional notions of religion by continuing to focus on relevance rather than tradition. Read more . . .

Ashley Keyes Photo Ashley Keyes
Honorary Chair & Head Tasting Judge
More about Ashley . . .

Ashley is a Georgia-grown chef who has completed her studies and graduated from the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. She participated in a 4-month hospitality and culinary internship at Disney Corporation in Florida. Chef Keyes became the Partner & Operations Manager for The Atlanta Bread Company kiosk at the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Read more . . .

Glenn J. DaCruz Photo Glenn J. DaCruz
Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge
More about Glenn . . .

Glenn J. DaCruz (Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge) passion for food was ignited as young man growing up in the small town of Providence, RI, where he spent time in the kitchen with his grandmother Laura McBride. Glenn later earned a Business Marketing degree from the respected culinary fortress, Johnson and Wales University. He has served as Chef Coordinator with Family Food Fest. Read more . . .

Walter Brooks, Jr. Photo Walter Brooks, Jr.
Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge
More about Walter . . .

Walter Brooks, Jr. (Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge) is the founder of Brooksmade Gourmet Foods. He has always been committed to delivering food that tasted good no matter the request or occasion. Chef Walter created his line of gourmet clean-label sauces to make it easy for everyone to create delicious, soulful food in the comfort of their kitchens while helping cultivate the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. Read more . . .

Christopher A. Daniel Photo Christopher A. Daniel
Tasting Judge
More about Christopher . . .

Christopher A. Daniel (Tasting Judge) is an Atlanta-based, award-winning journalist, cultural critic, ethnomusicologist, and former journalism professor. He is currently the Black Culture Reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and has done features on Family Food Fest in the past. Christopher is alumnus of Johnson C. Smith University and The University of Georgia's Grady College of Mass Communication. Read more . . .

Dr. Maria Boynton Photo Dr. Maria Boynton.
Tasting Judge
More about Dr. Boynton . . .

Dr. Maria Boynton (Tasting Judge) is a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and member of the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. She has been named among Atlanta's Top 100 Black Women of Influence by the Atlanta Business League and is a member of the Board of Trustees for Albany State University. Maria has degrees from Albany State University and Trinity International University of Ambassadors. Read more . . .

DJ Ms. Eclectic Photo DJ Ms. Eclectic
Tasting Judge
More about DJ Ms. Eclectic . . .

DJ Ms. Eclectic (Tasting Judge) is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University and the host of “Good Vibes with Ms. Eclectic” every Friday from 7pm - 9pm ET on News & Talk 1380 WAOK. She has made recurring DJ Appearances on Radio One and is known for her energetic interviews with National recording artist, producers and actors in the studio and on the red carpet. Read more . . .

Attorney Denise Holmes Photo Attorney Denise Holmes
Tasting Judge
More about Attorney Holmes . . .

Attorney Denise Holmes (Tasting Judge) is a sole practitioner in Atlanta, GA where her primary area of Practice is Personal Injury since 1999. She has degrees from Temple University and the Atlanta Law School. She has been involved with the State Bar of Georgia, Atlanta Bar Association, Gwinnett County Bar Association, Dekalb County Bar Association, Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, and more. Read more . . .

Juandolyn Stokes Photo Juandolyn Stokes
Tasting Judge
More about Juandolyn . . .

Juandolyn Stokes (Tasting Judge) is a well-known voice and high-profile part of the Atlanta community. She is host of a daily weekday radio talk show - “On Point w/ Juandolyn Stokes", heard daily 10am - 1pm ET on the Audacy Network on 1380 WAOK Radio Atlanta. A native of Savannah, GA, she moved to Atlanta and attended Clark Atlanta University, Beulah Heights University and the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. Read more . . .

Bone Crusher Photo

"Bonecrusher" (Entertainer) AKA Wayne Hardnett Jr. is an American rapper and hip hop producer. He is credited as being one of the inventors of the crunk sound. In 2003, at the height of his career, his debut album AttenCHUN! reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, and his debut single "Never Scared" reached the top 10 on the R&B and Rap charts. Read more . . .

Jimmi Littles Photo

Jimmi Littles, III (Master of Ceremonies) is a professional master of ceremonies and event host. He embodies the elements of class, wit, and charm which captivate the audience. Known as an eloquent speaker, Jimmi tactfully interactives and engages with the public. Some of his hosting duties include the world-acclaimed UniverSoul Circus in Atlanta GA. He has also provided voice-overs for various companies. Read more . . .

Kiplyn Primus Photo

Kiplyn Primus (Guest Host & Tasting Judge) hosts The Local Take With Kiplyn Primus. This public affairs show features discussions about critical issues facing Atlanta and profiles of organizations doing important work in the communities served by WCLK. Kiplyn is a graduate of Howard University with a BA inJournalism and English. Additionally, she graduated from Clark Atlanta University, where she obtained an MBA in Marketing. Read more . . .

Chris Cocktails Photo

E. Christopher "Cocktails" Cornell (Guest Host) always deliver high-energy performances that leave listeners on the edge of their seats. He has been wowing crowds with his colorful prose for the past twenty years. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University, Mr. Cornell got his start in promoting and hosting events during his college days as Student Government President. After college, he founded E Period, LLC. Read more . . .

Tom Jones Photo

Tom Jones (Guest Host) is a native of Houston, Texas. He graduated from Texas Southern University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Tom has reported the news in Amarillo, Texas, Shreveport, Louisiana and Las Vegas. He has worked at WSB-TV as a General Assignment Reporter for more than a decade. Tom considers himself a news junkie. He enjoys covering crime and court stories. Read more . . .

Willie Anderson Photo

"Mr. Geminii" also known as Willie Will Anderson, is an independent R&B artist and owner, manager, and CEO of Southern Gentleman's Production Incorporations. His successful album ("100% R&B") have included hits such as: "Queen for a Day", "Let's Make This Happen", "It's My Party", "Separate Ways", "I Need My Girl Back", and the fan-favorite "Dismissed". Mr. Geminii's smooth and silky voice always captures the attention of his audience. Read more . . .

Stepp Stewart Photo

Stepp Stewart (Entertainer) has been in show business for over 30 years touring in the United States, Europe, and Japan with his company Dynamite Productions. Stepp attended Ohio State University with continuing studies in New York City. He is best known as the Dance Fitness Star of the Emmy award-winning television show, The Dr. Oz Show. He has worked with Tony-award winning legends such as Ben Vereen and Jennifer Holliday. Read more . . .

MzWallstreet Photo

"Mz Wallstreet" (Entertainer) AKA Michelle Hodges has performed as an actress, comedienne, poet, celebrity mistress of ceremonies, and plus-size model. Her unique flair during her high-energy performances consists of colloquial flavors from the North and the South. She has graced the stage as an opening act for Slick Rick, Jon B, Mint Condition, Dru Hill, Jodeci, and Theodis Ealey. Read more . . .

Chef-Kevin Ashford Photo

Kevin Ashford (Celebrity Chef) is Director & Chief Operating Officer at Catered Cakes which specializes in creating The Ultimate Dessert Experience for all occasions. Chef Kevin's company focuses on delivering high quality and bespoke confectionery creations that include custom and traditional flavors, designs and consultation. Food is art and art is an experience. Let Catered Cakes curate yours. Read more . . .

Chef Johnnie Winston Photo

Johnnie Winston, III (Celebrity Chef) is the owner of a successful company called Exclusive Designs, LLC. His establishment is a full-service event planning and catering company that also specializes in floral arrangements and drapery. Chef Johnnie served Chargrilled Salmon Bites and Bourbon BBQ Meatballs. He has been an active part of the Family Food Fest Atlanta team for many years. Read more . . .

Raúl Thomas Photo

Raúl Thomas (Celebrity Chef) is a New York native of Puerto Rican descent. He discovered his culinary identity at a young age, watching his mother cook typical Puerto Rican dishes. He is the founder and owner of RT Hospitality Group where he operates Raúl's Catering Service. Chef Raúl's versatility has expanded with the recent release of several cooking videos. He served vegetarian tacos to patrons. Read more . . .

Marvin Arrington Photo

Marvin Arrington, Jr. (Honorary Chair) is a renowned lawyer with over 25 years of litigation and judicial process and serves as District 5 Commissioner of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. Mr. Arrington, Jr. has created opportunities to provide education, entertainment, and empowerment to GA communities through his various entrepreneurial enterprises and civic initiatives. Read more . . .

Melvin Coleman Photo

Melvin Coleman (Honorary Chair) is the President & CEO for the Atlanta Black Chambers (ABC), an organization of over 1,000 Entrepreneurs committed to the creation and growth of competitive, profitable and sustainable Black owned entities. During his time as Executive Director, the Chamber had experienced phenomenal growth in both membership and programming. Read more . . .

Jamahl L. King Photo

Jamahl L. King (Honorary Chair) is the founder of S.T.E.P.S. Event Planning Firm, Inc. which is a full-service event planning firm. They has a well-respected staff skilled in handling everything from event conception to completion. Jamahl graduated in 1993 from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA studying Mass Communications. He is an active part of the Family Food Fest Atlanta team. Read more . . .

Nancy Flake Johnson Photo

Nancy Flake Johnson is the President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Atlanta (ULGA). She is an advocate, educator, coach, collaborator, strategist, and champion for closing the racial wealth gap. She is dedicated to advancing the Black community through promoting civic engagement, improved race relations, and equity for all people. In her tenure, Nancy has more than tripled the size of the ULGA. Read more . . .

Pastor Brandyn C. Pierce Photo

Pastor Brandyn C. Pierce (Invocation & Honorary Chair) is the visionary founder of The Place of Change Church, an innovative church with a very comprehensive vision to reach the world for Christ and Help believer become devoted Christ Followers. Pastor Brandyn strives to amplify the voice of the marginalized by challenging the conventional notions of religion by continuing to focus on relevance rather than tradition. Read more . . .

Ashley Keyes Photo

Ashley Keyes (Honorary Chair & Head Tasting Judge) is a Georgia-grown chef who has completed her studies and graduated from the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. She participated in a 4-month hospitality and culinary internship at Disney Corporation in Florida. Chef Keyes became the Partner & Operations Manager for The Atlanta Bread Company kiosk at the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Read more . . .

Glenn J. DaCruz Photo

Glenn J. DaCruz (Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge) passion for food was ignited as young man growing up in the small town of Providence, RI, where he spent time in the kitchen with his grandmother Laura McBride. Glenn later earned a Business Marketing degree from the respected culinary fortress, Johnson and Wales University. He has served as Chef Coordinator with Family Food Fest. Read more . . .

Walter Brooks, Jr. Photo

Walter Brooks, Jr. (Celebrity Chef & Tasting Judge) is the founder of Brooksmade Gourmet Foods. He has always been committed to delivering food that tasted good no matter the request or occasion. Chef Walter created his line of gourmet clean-label sauces to make it easy for everyone to create delicious, soulful food in the comfort of their kitchens while helping cultivate the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. Read more . . .

Christopher A. Daniel Photo

Christopher A. Daniel (Tasting Judge) is an Atlanta-based, award-winning journalist, cultural critic, ethnomusicologist, and former journalism professor. He is currently a Black Culture Reporter for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and has done features on Family Food Fest in the past. Christopher is alumnus of Johnson C. Smith University and The University of Georgia's Grady College of Mass Communication. Read more . . .

Dr. Maria Boynton Photo

Dr. Maria Boynton (Tasting Judge) is a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and member of the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. She has been named among Atlanta's Top 100 Black Women of Influence by the Atlanta Business League and is a member of the Board of Trustees for Albany State University. Maria has degrees from Albany State University and Trinity International University of Ambassadors. Read more . . .

DJ Ms. Eclectic Photo

DJ Ms. Eclectic (Tasting Judge) is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University and the host of “Good Vibes with Ms. Eclectic” every Friday from 7pm - 9pm ET on News & Talk 1380 WAOK. She has made recurring DJ Appearances on Radio One and is known for her energetic interviews with National recording artist, producers and actors in the studio and on the red carpet. Read more . . .

Attorney Denise Holmes Photo

Attorney Denise Holmes (Tasting Judge) is a sole practitioner in Atlanta, GA where her primary area of Practice is Personal Injury since 1999. She has degrees from Temple University and the Atlanta Law School. She has been involved with the State Bar of Georgia, Atlanta Bar Association, Gwinnett County Bar Association, Dekalb County Bar Association, Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, and more. Read more . . .

Juandolyn Stokes Photo

Juandolyn Stokes (Tasting Judge) is a well-known voice and high-profile part of the Atlanta community. She is host of a daily weekday radio talk show - “On Point w/ Juandolyn Stokes", heard daily 10am - 1pm ET on the Audacy Network on 1380 WAOK Radio Atlanta. A native of Savannah, GA, she moved to Atlanta and attended Clark Atlanta University, Beulah Heights University and the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. Read more . . .

Family Food Fest Atlanta Palm Card