Feeling Villa Good
Date posted: April 10, 2026
Will Packer’s newest film, “You, Me & Tuscany,” puts Black love in the Italian countryside.
Renowned filmmaker Will Packer, whose blockbuster hits include “Girls Trip,” “Ride Along,” “Night School,” and “Think Like a Man,” is back with a romantic comedy that promises laughter, love, and a little chaos in the Italian countryside. His latest film, “You, Me & Tuscany,” takes audiences on a charming journey where one little lie and a sprawling villa set the stage for unexpected romance.
The story centers on Anna, played by rising star Halle Bailey (“The Little Mermaid,” “The Color Purple”). Anna is a young woman who has put her culinary dreams on hold and finds herself drifting through her twenties, navigating a series of missteps. When she suddenly loses her house-sitting job — and her place to live — she encounters Matteo, a handsome Italian with a villa in Tuscany that’s sitting empty. Despite the cautionary advice of her best friend Claire (Aziza Scott, “Home Before Dark”), Anna takes a leap of faith and heads to Italy, hoping for a quick escape and maybe a taste of adventure.
But things take a twist when Matteo’s mother, Gabriella (Italian film legend Isabella Ferrari), unexpectedly arrives at the villa. In a moment of panic, Anna convinces Gabriella that she is Matteo’s fiancée — a harmless white lie that quickly spirals out of control. The situation becomes even more complicated when Matteo’s cousin, Michael (Rege-Jean Page, “Bridgerton,” “Black Bag”), enters the picture. Suddenly, Anna finds herself caught in a whirlwind of attraction, laughter, and the kind of romantic tension that could change her life forever.
The film boasts an international cast that includes Lorenzo de Moor (“The Legend Hunters”) as Matteo, Marco Calvani (“The Four Seasons”) as a friendly Italian taxi driver, and Academy Award nominee Nia Vardalos (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) as Anna’s house-sitting client, Mrs. Dunn.
Directed by Kat Coiro (“Marry Me,” “Matlock”) from a screenplay by Ryan Engle (“Rampage,” “Beast”), “You, Me & Tuscany” is produced by Packer and Johanna Byer (“Point Blank,” executive producer of “Praise This”) for Will Packer Productions, with Ryan and Kristin Engle serving as executive producers.
With its picturesque setting, star-studded cast, and the signature charm Packer brings to the big screen, “You, Me & Tuscany” promises a romantic escape filled with laughter, passion, and a little taste of the unexpected.
Hearing VOICES
Date posted:
By Dr. Tya Mathis-Coleman and Latoschka Nether
Las Vegas American Cancer Society Ambassadors celebrate Women’s History Month, launch groundbreaking study to support Black women.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently hosted a gathering of women and community leaders in Las Vegas to introduce VOICES, a collective commitment to understanding and improving the health of Black women across the nation.
Designed to better understand the multi-level drivers of cancer incidence, mortality and resilience within this demographic, the long-term study will gather valuable data from Black women between the ages of 25 and 55 from diverse backgrounds and income levels who have not been diagnosed with cancer. The organization aims to enroll more than 100,000 Black women across the U.S.
Dr. Tya Mathis-Coleman, ACS Board Member, ACS Voices of Black Women Ambassador
As an African American woman raised by a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the power of resilience. My mother’s courage taught me that health equity is not just a conversation; it is a movement. Today, as I raise my own young Black daughter, I am committed to ensuring that her future includes access to lifesaving information and care.
Last year, the American Cancer Society launched the VOICES campaign, amplifying stories from communities most impacted by cancer disparities. As a board member of ACS Nevada and now a proud VOICES Ambassador, I have seen firsthand that sharing our experiences can inspire change. When we launched Nevada’s VOICES in October 2025, it was a powerful reminder that Black women face unique challenges in cancer prevention and treatment and that our voices are essential in driving solutions.
This Women’s History Month let’s honor our strength by speaking up, advocating for equity, and ensuring that every sister knows she is not alone. Join the VOICES movement, schedule your screenings, and encourage the women you love to do the same because our health is our power and our power is our legacy.
Latoschka Nether, Senior Grassroots Advocacy Manager, ACS Cancer Action Network
As a VOICES Ambassador working in advocacy and policy, I have the privilege of inviting lawmakers into meaningful conversations about the disparities affecting the communities they serve. Their constituents rely on them to champion policies that improve lives, especially in healthcare and cancer care.
As a Black woman, I feel a deep responsibility to ensure my community, and others historically underrepresented, are seen and heard. Encouraging engagement is essential to building equity in a system that has long marginalized care. Change doesn’t happen instantly; it requires participation. VOICES offers a powerful pathway to begin that transformation.
To learn more, visit voices.cancer.org
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS: Spring is the season, love in the air
Date posted:
This April issue of Las Vegas Black Image is a celebration of love. With the arrival of spring, there is a renewed sense of warmth, growth, and connection in the air.
The new film “You, Me & Tuscany” beautifully exemplifies Black love, offering a powerful and uplifting image on the big screen — something we can all take pride in. We celebrate Will Packer for yet another blockbuster success that continues to elevate Hollywood storytelling.
At the heart of this issue is the belief that each of us has the power to shape our own narrative. In Community Speaks, readers embrace this idea by creating their own headlines — reflecting self-love, purpose, and inspiration in deeply meaningful ways; Under the Glittering Lights puts a spotlight on the smooth, captivating sounds of Najee, following his outstanding performance at the Aliante Hotel; Healthier You focuses on Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17), as Dr. Marguerite Brathwaite sheds light on health disparities and offers valuable insights into healthier outcomes for Black women; and Peace remains a constant within Las Vegas Black Image, with our ongoing journey of awareness continuing to guide us toward new awakenings.
Elsewhere, our Living section invites you to embrace the beauty of everyday life — from savoring a delicious orange roughy recipe, to planting vibrant flowers as we transition into summer, and creating a home environment filled with inspiration through meaningful art and imagery.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated contributing writers, whose voices continue to inform, motivate, and educate. We are equally thankful for our advertisers, whose support ensures that Las Vegas Black Image Magazine remains a vibrant and impactful platform in our community.
We proudly acknowledge our exceptional executive publishing team — our editor, graphic designer, and distributors — whose commitment to excellence brings each issue to life. And to you, our loyal readers and supporters, we offer our deepest thanks. Your continued engagement and encouragement are what keep Las Vegas Black Image Magazine rising.
Rise,
Charles Tureaud & Kimberly Bailey Tureaud
Publishers
(702) 615-8216
cdalasvegas@gmail.com
LasVegasBlackImage.com
Part II: Race In America, Where We At?
Date posted:
BY LOUIE OVERSTREET
To gain greater appreciation of how my Facebook friends see the state of race in America, I asked them to respond to a question: “Which will prevail in America: Whiteness or Rightness?”
One of the five most principled friends I have, Bill Campagna, noted, “Many Americans of all races are afraid of each other because of the lack of contact or interactions. Yes, there are bad people in every group but most people in every group are good people. MAGA is the exception, they spread hate, they are mostly white supremacists who have built their reasoning on fear and ignorance through many generations … ignorance and fear are the true enemies of civilization.”
Paul Hill Jr., a friend of 60-plus years (since our days at Ohio University), laid it out in a treatise-length post: “The United States was not organized around rightness — around justice, truth, or moral coherence. It was organized around whiteness as power … Rightness demands truth about origins. It demands accountability where harm was done, foundational, not accidental. It demands repair rather than apology, dignity rather than charity!”
Will Laws, who followed Paul and me at OU, said (on the run and with little need for research): “Whiteness deems business as usual or as it should be. In fact, there have always been laws or statutes built to protect whiteness.”
My friend Mabry M. Merv stated: “In my lifetime, there has never been rightness. Whiteness dominates … Give folks a champion for change rather than bitching about ‘the dude,’ giving him all of the attention.”
A Facebook favorite, Sylvia Billups, believes there is value in the movement to “keep teaching and reaching one at a time!”
Larry Fleisher succinctly observed, “The rightness. The whiteness will never disappear as it has been active for so long. Power to the people!”
Dave Ashbrook did a lot of amen-ing to the comments!
Next month: America’s racial climate!
PEACE: Awakening the Conscious Mind
Date posted:
BY KIMBERLY BAILEY-TUREAUD
There comes a point in all of our lives when what we see begins to capture us, and what we experience begins to enlighten us. Everyday life is filled with moments — some that call for our attention and others that quietly pass us by. Yet every moment carries a story.
We move through life accepting the stories we choose to feel, those we are willing to absorb, and those we decide to ignore. Too often, we take consistent occurrences for granted, assuming they will always be there. But nothing is forever. The people, places, and things we encounter daily become labeled by our subconscious as, “I already know.”
Life is fleeting. What we choose to see and experience is either stored as treasured moments or dismissed as passing distractions. Yet even distractions leave an imprint — they carry memory. And when we sense a blockage or a negative energy approaching, our instinct is to avoid it.
Still, the awakened mind seeks something greater. It searches for positive fuel — those experiences that pour into us, grounding us and strengthening our confidence when we stand firmly on our own two feet. The Almighty places before us a landscape of lessons, each one designed to guide us, to elevate us, and to sharpen our ability to truly see.
Within each of us lies a sacred space, quietly calling for our attention. It feels like a warm blanket, a flowing waterfall, a moment beneath a radiant purple moon. This is the place of awakening — the place where we meet ourselves fully.
To be at peace is to embrace this awakening. It is to understand that your willingness to grow, your openness to divine gifts, becomes the very doorway to salvation.
Everything you are has brought you to this moment. You hold the power to manifest your dreams through awareness — through the careful selection of what you choose to value and carry forward. Even life’s challenges, the perceived wrongs, contribute to your unique flavor — your personal roux.
So now the question becomes: What are you going to do with it?
Clear the pathways. Make room for your creativity, your movement, your rhythm. Step into a space of joyful exploration, where purpose and passion meet.
This place is yours. Wake up — and embrace all of it.
HEALTHIER YOU: Knowledge is power in understanding birth defects
Date posted: March 18, 2026
BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN
For many expectant mothers, pregnancy is a time filled with hope, excitement, and heartfelt prayers for a healthy child. While most pregnancies result in healthy births, it is important to acknowledge and understand the realities surrounding birth defects — a challenge that affects thousands of families each year.
Birth defects are physical or biochemical changes that are present at birth. They can affect nearly any part of the body and may interfere with how the body develops or functions. Some birth defects are mild and manageable, while others can be serious and require ongoing medical care. Understanding what they are — and what may contribute to them — empowers families to take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection.
Birth defects can develop at any point during pregnancy, but many occur during the first trimester — the first three months — when a baby’s organs are forming. This is a critical period of development. However, defects can also occur later in pregnancy while the baby’s organs continue to grow and mature.
Early prenatal care plays a vital role in identifying potential concerns. Advances in screening and diagnostic testing allow many conditions to be detected before birth, giving families and healthcare providers valuable time to prepare and plan.
While not all birth defects can be prevented, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of occurrence:
● Genetic or Chromosomal Changes. Some birth defects are caused by changes in a baby’s genes (mutations) or chromosomes. These changes may be inherited or occur randomly during development.
● Environmental Exposures. A mother’s environment includes everything she encounters in daily life. Exposure to harmful substances — such as cigarette smoke, toxic chemicals, or radiation — can increase risks during pregnancy.
● Preexisting Health Conditions. Certain maternal health conditions, including diabetes and other chronic illnesses, may raise the risk of birth defects if not properly managed before and during pregnancy.
● Medications. Some medications taken before or during pregnancy can pose risks. For example, drugs such as isotretinoin are known to increase the likelihood of serious birth defects. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication while pregnant.
● Substance Use. Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using street drugs during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of birth defects and other complications. Avoiding these substances is one of the most important steps an expectant mother can take.
● Infections. Certain viral or bacterial infections during pregnancy can impact fetal development. Staying current on recommended vaccinations and practicing preventive health measures can reduce this risk.
● Maternal Age. Women who are pregnant after the age of 34 may face a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities and certain birth defects. While many women in this age group deliver healthy babies, additional monitoring is often recommended.
Knowledge is one of the strongest tools in promoting healthy pregnancies. Regular prenatal visits, proper nutrition, taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid, managing chronic conditions, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can significantly reduce risks.
Healthcare providers play a critical role in supporting expectant mothers through education, screening, and personalized care plans. Early detection allows families to access specialists, explore treatment options, and prepare emotionally and medically for any challenges ahead.
Every pregnancy journey is unique. With the right support, education, and medical guidance, families can face the realities of birth defects with strength, knowledge, and hope.
Women’s Innovative Care is dedicated to supporting healthy pregnancies and identifying potential complications as early as possible. Through compassionate care and advanced screening services, the team works closely with mothers-to-be to ensure the best possible outcomes. If you have questions or concerns about your pregnancy, consider scheduling an appointment by calling (702) 413-7740 or visiting 851 South Rampart Blvd., Suite 160, Las Vegas, NV
YOU! HAVE THE POWER | Believe It And Seize It: Unlocking Your Own Potential
Date posted:
BY DR. ELLEN W. BROWN
Divine power manifests from God to us through prayer, through a message, or even through a quiet revelation.
We are living in troubling times. While this is not the first season of uncertainty our world has faced, trouble has a way of slipping quietly into our lives. Often, we don’t recognize it until challenges begin to surround us. That is why staying positive, keeping our eyes open, and our ears attentive to clarity is so important. Awareness prepares us for the unknown — yet often expected — changes that appear along our journey.
Looking Back to Move Forward
One powerful way to prepare for present challenges is to look back at the ones we’ve already overcome. No matter how difficult — or how manageable — they seemed at the time, those challenges came, caused disruption, demanded response, and were ultimately resolved. The outcome may not have been exactly what we expected, needed, or even wanted — but resolution came. And with resolution came lessons.
Ask yourself:
- What past challenges caused chaos in my life?
- How did I respond?
- Who supported me?
- What strengths did I discover within myself?
When we reflect, we often think about “next time.” How will I handle a similar situation differently? Who will I turn to? What wisdom, experience, and resilience can I draw upon?
Confidence grows when we remember: I’ve been here before—and I made it through. This time, you can face the challenge with a Power Plan — equipped with clarity, confidence, and determination about what you expect and deserve.
Inner strength is not accidental. It is a built-in defense system, designed to protect, guide, and empower you. Consider these your spiritual and personal “weapons”:
- Prayer
- Passion and belief
- Confidence in your inner strength
- Claiming what is yours
- A clear plan
- Supportive people
- Options and flexibility
- Action-oriented focus
- The unwavering belief that victory is on the way
Facing challenges and giving your very best effort is never easy — especially in unfamiliar territory. The unknown will always be a factor. But preparation transforms fear into faith.
As Philippians 4:13 reminds us: “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.”
You are stronger than you realize. You are more prepared than you think. And you have more power than you sometimes claim.
Sharing strengthens our collective voice. Send your ideas, questions, stories to me at ebrown.nci@gmail.com.
KNIGHT MOVES | Marching into Spring madness
Date posted:
By Craig Knight
March is here!
We welcome the arrival of Spring, the close of the first quarter of the year, the excitement of March Madness, and the celebration of Women’s History Month. This month carries energy, reflection, and inspiration all at once.
Women’s History Month kicked off on March 1, giving us the opportunity to honor, recognize, and celebrate the incredible women who shape our lives and our world. From wives, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, sisters, aunts, nieces, cousins, and friends who are like family — to the trailblazers who have made historic and present-day contributions across every field — this month is a reminder to pause and say thank you. Thank you for being loving, caring, resilient, and inspiring role models each and every day.
March is also National Nutrition Month, a perfect time to reassess our eating habits and recommit to healthier choices. Balanced nutrition fuels not just our bodies, but our focus, productivity, and overall well-being. Small adjustments today can create lasting benefits tomorrow.
In addition, March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month — a time when communities around the globe unite to raise awareness and support for those living with this chronic illness. Awareness leads to understanding, and understanding leads to compassion and action.
And yes, March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day. I know what some of you may be thinking: why is this Black man acknowledging that? (Laughing.) Well, my mom once shared that on her mother’s side, we have two great-grand uncles who were Irish. I was like, “Whaaaat?!” But yes — facts! There’s a little Irish blood running through my veins. Many of you might discover the same if you dig into your family history. So with that being said … cheers to green beers!
Of course, we can’t talk about March without mentioning the Madness of the NCAA tournaments. It’s that time of year to gather with family, friends, and coworkers, fill out brackets, debate Cinderella teams, and embrace the unpredictable excitement. And sincerely speaking, I find the NCAA Women’s
Basketball Tournament just as compelling as the men’s. How fitting that Women’s History Month coincides with the intensity and excellence of women competing at the highest collegiate level.
Whether you’re watching college basketball, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, focusing on better health, or simply stepping outside to enjoy the longer days and the first hints of Spring—take time to appreciate the changing season. Engage in activities that uplift and inspire you, and do so responsibly.
Until the next edition of Knight Moves, continue to educate yourself—and share knowledge with others. God bless!
ETERNAL HOPE
Date posted:
Rev. Jesse Jackson’s legacy burns bright with the passing of the civil rights leader and cultural icon, whose powerful voice and moral clarity led millions to embrace the dignity of all people.
A quiet reverence swept across the nation on Feb. 17 with the passing of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, as the world lost one of the most prolific humanitarians and steadfast champions of social justice. Rev. Jackson was more than a leader — he was a movement. A warrior for equality in the 20th century, he possessed a rare and masterful ability to galvanize people across race, gender, class, and faith.
His rallying cry, “Keep Hope Alive,” became more than a slogan — it grew into a spiritual anthem that stirred optimism and forward-thinking action among millions. In moments of national despair, Jackson’s voice was a reminder that progress was still possible and that unity was still powerful.
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson came of age during the era of Jim Crow segregation. Despite the harsh realities of the time, he demonstrated exceptional academic and athletic talent, earning a scholarship to the University of Illinois. He later transferred to North Carolina A&T State University, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in sociology — a discipline that would deeply inform his life’s work.
While still an undergraduate, Jackson became actively involved in local civil rights demonstrations. By 1965, he had fully immersed himself in the Civil Rights Movement. He participated in the historic Selma to Montgomery marches alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an experience that led to his involvement with King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Jackson eventually rose to serve as director of its economic branch, focusing on empowerment and opportunity.
After departing the SCLC, Jackson founded Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity), an organization dedicated to economic justice and educational advancement. Years later, he helped establish the National Rainbow Coalition, expanding the fight for equality to include African-Americans, women, the poor, and the LGBTQ+ community. The two organizations ultimately merged to form the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, which became a powerful force for advocacy and change.
Jackson also broke political barriers. He served as a shadow senator for the District of Columbia and made history as the second African-American to mount a serious national campaign for the presidency in 1984 and again in 1988. His campaigns energized millions and reshaped the national political conversation around inclusion and coalition-building.
Beyond domestic advocacy, Jackson played a pivotal role on the international stage.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he successfully negotiated the release of American captives abroad, demonstrating his diplomatic skill and moral authority. In recognition of his lifelong service to humanity, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton.
Today, in moments when hope may seem on the verge of extinction, we can still hear the echoes of Rev. Jackson’s enduring mandate: “Keep Hope Alive.” His life stands as a testament to faith in action, courage in the face of injustice, and the unwavering belief that change is possible when people stand together.
His voice may be silenced but his legacy continues to speak with the strength and dignity that defined his extraordinary life.
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS: Push The Legacy Forward
Date posted:
We are proud to present this special Black History Month 2026 issue, featuring an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Historic Moulin Rouge Hotel & Casino through the eyes of one of its original dancers: Anna Bailey.
While many stories have been told about the Moulin Rouge, few come directly from someone who lived its history in 1955. From her journey from Brooklyn to Las Vegas, Bailey’s personal account gives us a unique perspective on this landmark — the first integrated hotel and casino in the country — where Black and white guests came together to enjoy entertainment, food, and gaming. We couldn’t imagine a more fitting story to share during Black History Month.
This issue also highlights the recent Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, a true celebration of unity and community. Thanks to the dedication of Clark Gabriel McCarrell Jr., our official Las Vegas Black Image Magazine photographer, we are able to share striking images that capture the spirit of Black Las Vegas. Clark’s work continues to bring the vibrancy of our community to life, earning well-deserved recognition as an award-winning photographer and man of character.
Among the parade highlights, we were inspired by the “Historic Brotherhood Westside” — a group of men celebrating the contributions of the Historic Westside, Las Vegas’ predominantly African American neighborhood. Founded by Rickey Mickey Ormond, this was their first year participating in the parade, and their presence exemplified community pride and unity. We also celebrated the contributions of longtime community supporters like renowned Marlon “DJ Thump” Rice, business consultant Tiffany Ward, Nevada Partners Executive Director Lizette Collins, and Ward 5 City Councilwoman Shondra Summers Armstrong, who took time to congratulate the many young people participating in the event. Additionally, the staff of the Las Vegas-Clark County Library and local sororities and fraternities brought joy, love, and togetherness to the parade.
We extend heartfelt thanks to our loyal advertisers, executive publishing team, and contributing writers, whose dedication and creativity make each issue possible.
Here’s to celebrating Black history, community, and the stories that inspire us all.
Rise,
Charles Tureaud & Kimberly Bailey Tureaud
Publishers
(702) 615-8216
cdalasvegas@gmail.com
LasVegasBlackImage.com