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ART & SOUL: Hamptons, a Summer Festival for Arts & Culture Enthusiasts

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Dr Georgette GrierKey Chief Curator of Eastville Community Historical Society

ART & SOUL: Hamptons, a Summer Festival of Arts & Culture Returns for it’s 3rd Year, in Partnership with the SOUTHAMPTON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM and the SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER

Southampton, New York Jun 11, 2024 (Issuewire.com) – Join us July 19 & 20, 2024 at ART & SOUL: Hamptons for a weekend filled with art and cultural experiences, celebrating influential and emerging BIPOC artists living in the Hamptons community and beyond. The series of experimental events will encourage people to visit Southampton to engage and connect with artists of color, as well as support art and cultural organizations who are passionate about diversity in the arts. Curated experiences include an art walk, culinary experience, film screening, live music and entertainment, a cocktail party, and more.

ART & SOUL: Hamptons will kick off on July 19th at the Southampton Arts Center — a hub that is helping to strengthen arts and culture for the entire community. Featured artists include Art Sims and Reynoir Lewis. A culinary tasting will be presented by the Black Culinary Expo featuring Chef Sandy Pierre, Chef Osei Blackett, and Chef Ronica Copes. New England Sweetwater will host a sipping experience and educate guests about their spirits and cocktails, handcrafted in New Hampshire at their family-owned distillery. To enhance the Hamptons experience, there will be champagne toasts, live music, beauty and lifestyle activations, and a wellness lounge. The evening will end with ‘Art After Dark’, after party hosted in the sculpture garden.

On July 20th, Jeremy Dennis will host a private guided museum tour of Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio where guests will learn about the history, culture, and contributions by the Native American Shinnecock Tribe. Following the art tour, visitors are encouraged to participate in the ‘Art Walk’ happening in Southampton – the art hub of the Hamptons, where they can view artwork by the artists in residency.

The first stop will be at the Southampton African American Museum (SAAM), founded by Brenda Simmons. “I’m proud to say this is SAAM’s 3rd year partnering with ART & SOUL: Hamptons. They have been profoundly instrumental in inviting, enlightening, and engaging visitors from near and far to the Hamptons, who are discovering the rich history of art and culture contributed by the BIPOC community”, says Simmons. Artist Alvin Clayton’s latest art collection premieres at SAAM on July 20th.

The second stop will be at the Southampton Arts Center, featuring artwork by various artists participating in the ‘Beyond The Streets: Post Graffiti’ art exhibition. Southampton Art Center’s mission is building community through the Arts, and we are delighted to once again collaborate with ART & SOUL: Hamptons and our neighbors at SAAM and Ma’s House to welcome all to the center and engage with us!” says Strassfield.

The third and final stop of the art walk will be at Hidden Gem NY, a home decor and lifestyle boutique owned by sisters Tanya Willock and Temidra Willock-Morsch. After visiting the vibrant art organizations in Southampton, a private brunch will be co-hosted by Brown Skin Brunchin’.

The festival wraps up with an opening reception to celebrate artist Alvin Clayton‘s residency at the Southampton African American Museum, which is available for viewing through October 2024. Guests will enjoy an interactive digital experience, live music and entertainment, soul food and Caribbean bites, and Caribbean-inspired cocktails sponsored by New England Sweetwater. A screening of ‘CROWN’, a short film that celebrates Black hair, will be presented by co-writer/co-director Karisma Jay.

EVENT PARTNERS / SPONSORS:

SOUTHAMPTON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM was founded and created by Brenda Simmons to promote an understanding and appreciation of African American culture by creating programs that will preserve the past, encourage learning, and enhance the life of the community.

SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER provides a dynamic venue to present the highest quality programming to the entire community through partnerships with a diverse slate of world-class artists, performers, educators, and cultural institutions.

MA’S HOUSE & BIPOC ART STUDIO is a project that serves as a communal art space based on the Shinnecock Indian Reservation in Southampton, NY. The family house, built in the 1960s, features a residency program for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), an art studio, and a library, along with hosting an array of art and history-based programs for tribe members and the broader local community.

BLACK CULINARY EXPO is a culinary experience highlighting Black-owned restaurants, caterers, and chefs. The platform hosts experiences that highlight Black Culinarians, while providing visibility to entrepreneurs within the industry, including wine and spirits.

WLNG 92.1 FM is an oldies/adult hits radio station licensed to Sag Harbor, New York, and serving the Hamptons and Eastern Long Island, but over the years it has reached out, and today can be heard in the Towns of Brookhaven, and the Coastline of Connecticut and Rhode Island. WLNG is owned and operated by Bark Out Loud Dogs Media, LLC, a company led by meteorologist Bill Evans and his wife Sandra Foschi.

ABOUT ART & SOUL: HAMPTONS:

ART & SOUL: Hamptons is a weekend festival designed to highlight, showcase, and celebrate art created by influential and emerging Black, Indigenous, and Artists of Color living in the Hamptons and beyond. It was created by Yaya Reyes, who curates a series of experimental events to encourage people to visit Southampton to engage and connect with artists of color, as well as support art and cultural organizations who are passionate about diversity in the arts. The weekend will consist of an art walk, culinary experiences, spirit and cocktail tastings, live music and entertainment, film screening, fireside chats, a celebration of Black hair, supporting local Black-owned businesses, and learning about the Native American Shinnecock tribe.

SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES:

Yaya Reyes, Chief Culture Creator

ART & SOUL: Hamptons

Instagram: @ArtandSoulHamptons

VIP guests at the after partyVIP guest admiring artwork during the outdoor art exhibitionVIP guests ESNAVI and husband Elijah BlandDJ Zeke and wife Tiffany posing at the private VIP brunch

Source :ART & SOUL: Hamptons

This article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.


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Long Lake Camps Announces Exclusive 2025 Musical Theater Summer Program Featuring One-on-One Coaching – Limited Spots Remaining, Enroll Now!

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A self-directed summer theater experience with expert guidance, immersive rehearsals, and unforgettable performances in the heart of the Adirondacks.

Dobbs Ferry, NY, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRELong Lake Camp for the Arts is proud to announce its much-anticipated 2025 Musical Theater Summer Program, offering teens ages 8 to 16 a unique and empowering experience rooted in full creative freedom and professional-level support. With enrollment now open and spots filling fast, families are encouraged to secure their teen’s place in one of the most dynamic performing arts programs available.

Set on a stunning 200-acre lakefront campus in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Long Lake Camp has cultivated a warm and nurturing artistic community for over 55 years. The camp’s musical theater program remains a standout opportunity for young artists to grow in confidence, skill, and self-expression—all while crafting unforgettable memories through performance.

Giving our campers full control over their program, with seasoned guidance alongside—not in front of—them, makes all the difference. They leave not only with polished scenes and songs, but with a profound sense of ownership over their artistic growth.”

In 2025, Long Lake is offering two immersive six-week sessions and three intensive three-week sessions. The six-week sessions begin on June 22 and July 14. The three-week sessions start on June 22, July 14, and August 4. Pricing and additional information are available on the camp’s official website.

What sets Long Lake’s musical theater program apart is its approach to growth and creativity. Campers are granted 100% choice in their training experience. Each performer decides which roles to pursue, what styles to rehearse, and how deeply to engage with specific skills, all while working under the guidance of experienced directors, choreographers, and instructors. This structure helps young artists develop their voice, presence, and style in ways that feel natural and personal.

Rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all curriculum, Long Lake empowers every camper to take ownership of their artistic journey. Whether they arrive confident and experienced or nervous and new to the stage, each camper is met with genuine care and mentorship that helps them thrive on their terms.

Through rehearsals, stage time, and structured lessons offered daily, teens are supported in strengthening their vocal abilities, sharpening their acting technique, and expanding their physical presence through movement and choreography. As they grow throughout the summer, campers become more comfortable not just in performance, but in themselves.

One parent shared that their child, once shy and hesitant, returned home from Long Lake transformed. “He stepped off the bus, standing taller and more confident than I’ve ever seen him. He told me, ‘I found myself on stage.’ That’s the power of Long Lake.”

The camp’s facilities include full performance theaters, rehearsal studios, and costume and set shops, providing teens with the experience of real production work while also maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment. Campers enjoy traditional outdoor activities in addition to rehearsals, from watersports, campfires, and talent nights.

Long Lake’s commitment to fostering independence and artistic discovery makes its programs not only impactful in the short term but lasting in the lives of its alumni. Many go on to continue their arts education or remain involved in theater throughout high school and beyond. What they take from camp is more than technical training—it’s self-assurance, lasting friendships, and the pride of creative accomplishment.

As spaces fill quickly for both session types, families are encouraged to register now to secure their preferred dates. With experience and a reputation built on trust, growth, and exceptional care, Long Lake Camp remains one of the country’s most respected summer programs for young artists.

About Long Lake Camp for the Arts

Founded in 1969, Long Lake Camp for the Arts offers immersive performing and fine arts experiences for teens in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. With a focus on camper-led training, supportive instruction, and a vibrant, creative community, Long Lake fosters personal growth, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the arts.

Contact Information

Address: 199 Washington Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Website: www.longlakecamp.com
Phone: 914-693-7111 (no texts)
Text:  914-430-7535 (texts only)

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Nakuja Expeditions Reveals New Custom Safari Packages for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers

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Nakuja Expeditions offers new custom safari packages that reaffirm the company’s role as a leader in the luxury safari space.

Morogoro, TZ, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRENakuja Expeditions, a premier travel and tourism company specializing in tailor-made African adventures, has unveiled an exciting new lineup of custom safari packages designed for modern travelers who crave authentic wildlife experiences and meaningful cultural encounters. These new offerings reflect the company’s dedication to providing unforgettable journeys across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa, with flexible itineraries catering to couples, families, solo travelers, student groups, and colleagues.

From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to witnessing the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti, Nakuja Expeditions’ updated collection of safaris is curated to immerse travelers in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Each itinerary is carefully designed by experienced local tour operators who bring deep regional knowledge and cultural insight to every journey.

Among the newly announced safaris are the popular 10-Day and 6-Day Tanzania Safaris, offering wildlife lovers a chance to explore Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar. These tours blend classic big game viewing with relaxing downtime on the coast, perfect for both thrill-seekers and those seeking tranquility. Adventurers can also opt for the 9 Days Luxury Cape Town and Kruger Safari for South Africa’s luxury city experiences and world-class wildlife encounters.

Another standout is the 11-Day Private Safari in Tanzania and Kenya, taking guests from Hell’s Gate and Lake Nakuru to the legendary Maasai Mara and on to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The itinerary offers a seamless transition between countries and ecosystems, giving travelers a front-row seat to the best of East Africa’s wildlife corridors.

For those drawn to Uganda’s lush terrain, the 6-Day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari delivers encounters with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other species in Bwindi, Kibale, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. Similarly, the 6-Day Rwanda Adventure Safari explores the volcanoes and savannahs of Rwanda with visits to Volcanoes and Akagera National Parks as well as Kigali, the country’s dynamic capital.

Adventurers can indulge in a luxurious 11-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari Adventure, combining the serenity of Volcanoes National Park with top-tier game drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. For wildlife migration enthusiasts, the company also features an 8-Day Wildebeest Crossing Safari, offering a dramatic view of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacle.

We believe that every traveler deserves an experience that speaks to their spirit of adventure,” said a spokesperson for Nakuja Expeditions. “Our new safari packages are more than just vacations, they are immersive, life-changing journeys crafted by locals who know Africa’s lands, wildlife, and cultures inside and out. Whether you’re watching a lion stalk its prey in the Serengeti, standing face-to-face with a gorilla in Rwanda, or watching the sun set over Ngorongoro, these are moments that stay with you forever.

Beyond preset packages, Nakuja Expeditions prides itself on creating fully custom travel itineraries. Each journey can be adapted to individual travel styles, seasonal preferences, and special requests, allowing for a truly personalized African adventure. Whether it’s a luxury family safari or a romantic honeymoon, the team ensures each trip is as unique as the traveler embarking on it.

About Nakuja Expeditions

Nakuja Expeditions is a boutique travel and tourism company offering expertly crafted safari adventures across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Africa. Known for their local expertise and commitment to personalized service, Nakuja Expeditions provides a diverse range of custom itineraries, including family safaris, romantic honeymoons, student expeditions, and wildlife migration tours. With a passion for connecting travelers to Africa’s natural and cultural heritage, Nakuja Expeditions turns ordinary trips into unforgettable journeys.

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Road Freight Transport Drives Growth in Azerbaijan’s Service Exports

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Baku, Azerbaijan, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, For over two decades Azerbaijan has consistently worked to modernize and expand its transport sector, achieving significant results and elevating it to a new level. In recent years, the development of international transport routes has become especially important, leading to notable successes. The country’s long-term efforts to strengthen its transit potential are now having a major impact on the rapidly growing road freight sector.

A forward-thinking strategy and large-scale infrastructure projects have modernized the national road network and positioned Azerbaijan as a key international hub. The country now serves as a crossroads for important regional and transcontinental transport routes, including the increasingly significant Middle Corridor. This route holds great promise for Azerbaijan, which has seen remarkable growth in international road transit freight over the past two years.

Azerbaijan’s reputation as a reliable partner has grown thanks to its adherence to international agreements, improved driver training and enhanced service quality. These factors have increased trust among cargo senders and recipients enabling Azerbaijani carriers to gain a stronger position in international freight markets. Today, they not only dominate bilateral transport but also operate successfully between third countries, including those in Europe.

A key achievement has been Azerbaijan’s strengthened cooperation with the International Transport Forum (ITF). Due to its high performance and reliability Azerbaijan was elected President of the ITF for 2025–2026 and currently serves as First Vice President for 2024–2025. This reflects the international community’s trust and recognition of Azerbaijan’s leadership in transport.

In 2023, the ITF confirmed Azerbaijan’s full compliance with the Charter on Quality for International Road Transport, adopted in 2015. The Charter outlines requirements in business reputation, financial stability and professional competence. Azerbaijan’s freight carriers operating in more than 40 countries under multilateral ITF permits fully meet these high international standards.

Statistical data highlight the sector’s rapid growth. According to the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency (AYNA), the market share of national carriers in bilateral international freight transport rose from 39% in 2021 to 49% in 2024 with 74,283 more trips completed. The number of freight shipments carried out by Azerbaijani transport operators to and from third countries increased from 13,979 in 2021 to 45,902 in 2024.  

This growth translates into higher profits for local carriers and increased foreign currency inflow from service exports, contributing to the expansion of the non-oil economy. For example, while total road transit freight was 1.5 million tons in 2020, it reached 7.2 million tons by 2024. The largest annual increase occurred in 2022, with a 95% jump compared to 2021. In 2023, this figure reached 6.3 million tons.

The geographic scope of Azerbaijani carriers now stretches from the UK to Southeast Asia. Naturally, this growth has led to an increase in the number of freight trucks, drivers, support staff and mechanics. From 2021 to 2024, around 12,000 new jobs were created in Azerbaijan’s international road freight sector.

Digital technology has also played a key role, streamlining documentation, saving time, reducing paper use and ensuring transparency. A recent example is the use of electronic permits in freight transport between Azerbaijan and Turkey. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have also agreed to fully implement e-permits by September 1, 2025, and pilot shipments using the system have already begun.

In short, digitalization, infrastructure development and international cooperation have positioned road freight as a vital engine of Azerbaijan’s transport development and non-oil export growth.

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