“With From Afros to Shelltoes, Ed Garnes, Sugar Johnson, and company, have created a tour, a multidimensional experience that, I feel, brilliantly illuminates their intellectual and artistic genius. Moreover, at a time when fresh perspectives and approaches are so desperately needed on this planet, From Afros to Shelltoes represents the sort of vision, leadership, and raw honesty that makes some of us think and, more importantly, makes some of us want to do something other than just think.”

Kevin Powell, Writer, Political Activist, CEO and Founder of True York Entertainment

"Brother Garnes work is cornerstone to our youth. A balance of our culture as it stands within American Culture is pivotal in positive youth development. From Afros to Shelltoes is the bridge between generations for our folks. Black America must understand our ancestors, embrace our social and cultural factors, Be Bop, Hip Hop, conservative, liberal, black and more...Black Arts embraced, appreciated and loved."

Dr. Carl S. Taylor
Professor, Department of Sociology
Senior Fellow, University Outreach and Engagement
Bergstrom International Fellow, Tufts University

“From Afros to Shelltoes shows that this generation is not lost, and we recognize we have a history. We understand that our cultural identity and survival is not determined solely on what we do now, but how that connects us with who have been and who we are becoming as a people."

Jessica Care Moore --Apollo Legend & Publisher Moore Black Press

“I have heard nothing but thanks and praises from students and staff who attended From Afros to Shelltoes. The team is super talented, funny, witty, incisive, powerful, and inspirational. I am thankful for the nourishing experience.”

Andrew Williams
Multicultural Affairs Director; Carleton College

“Like Garnes, Johnson's successes also fly in the face of the stereotypes; funny and modest.”

Rose Cooper--3blackchicks.com

From Afros to Shelltoes educates African-Americans, as well as the community as a whole about prevalent issues. It explores different subject matters in a new and vibrant voice that displays the collaborative and learning spirit of those who are constantly seeking growth and awareness. It is an inspiring, an informative, and a needed voice!"

Tiffany Goode
Co-CEO of Goode Stuff Entertainment
Co-Founder of the "Southern Poetry Conference"