People remember Sid Booker’s spots

If you remember back in the late 80s, Broad Street and Belfield Avenue was the hot spot in the city of Philadelphia–either you were going to the legendary Stinger or the LaPointe and ended up at Sid Bookers Shrimp where everybody was ordering his colossal shrimps.
And that tradition continued over the years, but now the city of Philadelphia is mourning the loss of Sid Booker, a businessman, community leader, and beloved icon, who passed away at the age of 87.
Sid Booker’s Shrimp Corner, renowned for its famous fried shrimp takeout, and the Stinger/La Pointe nightclub, known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment, became staples in the city’s cultural fabric. In October 2023, the City of Philadelphia recognized Sid Booker’s significant contributions by renaming the 4600 block of North Broad Street to “Sid Booker Way” in honor of his lifelong dedication to the community.
Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson released the following statement, “The passing of Sid Booker is the loss of a legendary business owner in Philadelphia’s African-American community. His bar has been a must-visit location for elected officials for decades. His support of elected officials is legendary, playing a pivotal role in the election of Philadelphia’s first African American Mayor, Wilson Goode, and the first African American President of the United States, Barack Obama.”
“I can remember the many days I went to that corner to get wings,” said Joe, who lived around the corner from Sid Bookers. “Everyone was going for shrimp, but a lot of us was going for the wings, which were mouthwatering.” Sheila said, “If you were smart, you would order your meal before you left the club so it would be ready when you left.” She added, “That’s what us regulars did.” Val and Dave said everyone hung out at the club and went to Sid Booker Shrimp Corner afterward. A special place in the city of Philadelphia that will not be forgotten.

Romona Riscoe Benson says farewell after
12 years at PECO
I met Romona Riscoe Benson when she was President of the African American Museum in Philadelphia for seven years and worked with the Urban League of Philadelphia, making her mark-building relationships and fundraising to bring AAMP out of debt and thriving again. But for the past 12 years, Romona was the Director of Corporate and Community Impact at PECO, cultivating relationships with nonprofit organizations and making a difference as a woman in the corporate world.
Benson retired on December 31, 2024, but plans to continue to be engaged in the community and will maintain seats on the many boards she serves.

A Visit Philadelphia social media campaign launching February 1, highlights Black family-owned businesses across the city. The campaign “Legacy and Love” celebrates the generations of families behind those businesses.
From the catchy music to the sweetest stories, it’s small family businesses that make Philadelphia just so Philly.
Visit Philadelphia’s Director of Diverse Marketing, Daniel Davis, shared how this campaign began. “Our city is filled with a lot of great businesses and really just families that look at Philadelphia as a place to develop and grow their legacy,” Davis said. “To really tell their story from the beginning of their business opening to the current place of where their businesses are at.”
The businesses include North Philadelphia’s Paul Beale’s Flowers; Vera Doyle, a boutique in Mt. Airy; Hakim’s Bookstore, the first of its kind in the U.S.; and Arterial Coffee, a café run by two sisters. Davis says it all comes down to inclusion, the legacy of these families, and the love they share serving Philadelphians. “We really feel this will bring a great civic pride to businesses they know or don’t know,” Davis said.
Head to VisitPhilly.com/LegacyandLove for more details.

The next chapter in the Black Panther saga has been revealed. Titled “Black Panther 3: Shadows of Wakanda,” the film will feature Michael B. Jordan reprising his role as Erik Killmonger, with Will Smith joining the cast as the main antagonist.
Following the tremendous success of the previous Black Panther films, Marvel Studios takes viewers back to Wakanda. The kingdom faces new threats and challenges, and the return of Michael B. Jordan as Killmonger adds an intriguing twist to the narrative. While the details of his resurrection remain a mystery, fans are speculating on how he will fit into the evolving story.
In a surprising casting move, Will Smith has been announced as the new villain in “Black Panther 3: Shadows of Wakanda.” Known for his versatility and charisma, Smith’s addition promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the film. His character, whose details are kept under wraps, is rumored to be a formidable adversary that will test Wakanda’s strength and unity like never before.
The plot of “Black Panther 3: Shadows of Wakanda” is expected to delve into the mystical and political complexities of Wakanda. With new alliances and old enemies emerging, the kingdom must navigate through dark times to protect its legacy and future. The film aims to explore the shadows within and beyond Wakanda, shedding light on its hidden history and untold secrets.

Recently, at the 15th Annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood, Larenz Tate and other stars came together to honor the incredible Nia Long. Celebrated for her outstanding contributions to film and television, Nia takes the stage to deliver a heartfelt and empowering acceptance speech that leaves the audience inspired. She reflects on her journey, shares wisdom for future generations, and embraces the love and recognition of her peers. This was an unforgettable moment celebrating Black excellence in Hollywood!
Well, that’s the Philly Beat!! Make sure you tune into the New World View with David Barnes and Yanina Carter on Sunday from 12 to 2 p.m. on WURD 96.1 FM, 900 AM, and on Facebook and WURD TV Live!!!People remember Sid Booker’s spots