The AAECF's Holiday Building Fundraiser & Awards Gala

🎉 Welcome to the AAECF’s Holiday Building Fundraiser & Awards Gala!

Hosted by the Hotel Indigo Long Island – East End | An IHG Hotel

Join us on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM for a spectacular evening of celebration, community, and giving back.

✨ Let’s come together to support the vital mission of the African American Educational and Cultural Festival, Inc., while honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public service and cultural advancement.

Enjoy an unforgettable night filled with:
🎶 Live Entertainment
🍽️ Elegant Dining
🏆 Award Presentations
💃 Dancing & Celebration
🎁 Silent Auction & Special Surprises

This is more than just a gala—it's a night of gratitude, joy, and impact.

Let’s celebrate. Let’s uplift. Let’s make a difference—together. Cultural attire is welcomed and encouraged as we celebrate the rich diversity of our community.

Only attendees who have pre-purchased tickets will be admitted

We can’t wait to see you there!

COME AND MEET OUR HONOREES & PRESENTERS!!

We are thrilled to announce our ‘Keynote Speaker’ for the

AAECF Building Fundraiser & Awards Gala

Join us in welcoming
New York State Lieutenant Governor Antonio R. Delgado

Meet our Master of Ceremonies — Mr. Phil Andrews!

We are honored to welcome Mr. Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC)—New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce, serving Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Kings Counties.

Under his leadership, LIAACC has earned significant national and regional recognition. In 2019, the Chamber was named the Small Business Champion by the Metro District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration. That same year, LIAACC launched its impactful, ongoing campaign to “Retool, Refocus, and Rebuild” Black businesses across New York State.

In 2021, during one of the most challenging periods for small businesses, LIAACC’s leadership was honored on Long Island Business News’ “Most Powerful Long Islanders” list. That year, Mr. Andrews himself was inducted into the Long Island Business News Hall of Fame, marked with a permanent plaque at the Zarb School of Business.

LIAACC continues to expand its impact as a multi-year “spoke” organization in the SBA’s Community Navigator Pilot Program. In recognition of its outstanding service, the Chamber was named “Spoke of the Month” by the United States Black Chambers, Inc.

Through all its initiatives, LIAACC remains steadfast in its mission: to advance economic development, support responsive government, and champion quality education for small businesses throughout Long Island and the metropolitan region.

Beyond his work with LIAACC, Mr. Andrews is also the Founding President of the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc., and serves as a Board Member of the AAECF, Inc.

Please join us in welcoming our distinguished Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Phil Andrews!

Meet one of our entertainers! “Timeless Music. Unforgettable Vibes.”

Deverne & The Vintagesoul is a premier live band delivering high-energy, soul-stirring performances!

Led by the charismatic Deverne, the group features seasoned vocalists and skilled musicians who bring a powerful blend of classic and contemporary hits to the stage. With a diverse repertoire that spans 1970s Motown and funk, 1980s and '90s R&B and rock, to today’s top Hip-Hop, Soul, Pop, and Jazz, this band caters to every musical taste and generation.

Dr. SANDRA TAYLOR

Co-Director of Entertainment

Sandra Taylor, a Long Islander, is Co-Director of Entertainment for the AAECF, Inc, on the Board of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, a National Independent Education Consultant and Motivational Speaker. She has served as an educator in the capacity of teacher, staff developer, Assistant Principal and Principal with the New York City Department of Education for 30+ years. Sandra Taylor is the daughter of legendary blues singer, songwriter and Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame Inductee, Sam “Bluzman” Taylor, who instilled within her a passion for music and the arts. She continues her father’s legacy as the front singer for “A Band Called Sam”. In addition, Sandra is a member of The Cookies, “Chains, Don’t Say Nothing Bad About my Baby and The Toys, best known for “A Lover’s Concerto”.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!
TwiinDaG, the electrifying Hip Hop Street Style dancer from NYC, is known nationwide for dominating dance battles across all major cities. A respected leader in the street dance scene, TwiinDaG brings unmatched energy to every stage he hits—whether it's a concert, competition, or special event.

Don't miss this high-energy performance!
TwiinDaG returns as a featured lead dancer in this year’s Event!

GOOD TO KNOW:

This is more than just a gala—it's a night of gratitude, joy, and impact.

Let’s celebrate. Let’s uplift. Let’s make a difference—together. Cultural attire is welcomed and encouraged as we celebrate the rich diversity of our community.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Silent Action Pre-Gala Viewing (Place Your Bids) https://aaecf.afrogs.org/#/index

 Digital Journal Ad link - https://www.aaecfinc.org/digital-journal-ad-form

ALTERNATIVE HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS:

Hotel Indigo is already booked


Group rate of $149 under AAECF at the

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Long Island-East End
Call the Hotel Directly to book & pay for your Reservation -
Reservations: 631-558-1000 - extension 0
1707 Old Country Road Riverhead, New York 11901 United States


Complimentary shuttle

Will pick up and drop off from the

Holiday Inn express to Hotel Indigo at:
6:45pm & 11:30pm (confirm with the Hotel)
BLOCK ROOMS: under AAECF at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Long Island-East End
Call the Hotel Directly to book & pay for your Reservation -

Reservations: 631-558-1000 - extension 0
1707 Old Country Road Riverhead, New York 11901 United States