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Love Beauty and Planet Celebrates New Product Launches at Freehand New York

August 31, 2018

When it comes to unforgettable summer nights in New York City, nothing tops the ambiance of rooftop parties and events.

Recently, I got the chance to celebrate the end of the balmy season in fashion with one of my favorite brands, Love Beauty and Planet.

Held on the rooftop of the Freehand Hotel, the swanky event showcased the brand’s latest offerings ranging from all-natural deodorants to moisturizing, multi-purpose oils. Decked out in gorgeous florals and sumptuous greenery, the space was the perfect backdrop to complement Love Beauty and Planet’s eco-friendly products and sustainable message of doing our part to preserve earth by doing small acts of love (for the planet).

To highlight the beauty of caring for the planet, attendees were offered eye-catching manicures featuring artwork that supports the brand ethos like a globe, leaves or regular polishes without the detailed embellishments. I opted for the latter.

Throughout the event there were opportunities to drink, eat and mingle with other bloggers/editors soaking up the last few days of summer. Plus, we got the chance to smell, touch and test the products on display.

It was a magical night that brought back a lot of memories. The hotel where the event was held, was the first place I lived while interning at Honey magazine more than a decade ago. It used to be a dorm that housed students from the School of Visual Arts and other schools.

Attending the event as a blogger/editor felt like a glorious full-circle moment and I’m so grateful to have the lovely opportunity to reflect on my journalism journey with a brand that I love and respect.

How are you planning to spend the last few weeks of summer? What do you love the most about the summer?

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Michael Jackson’s Friends, Fans and Family Gather to Celebrate His Diamond Birthday in Las Vegas

August 30, 2018

Ever since I was 4-years-old, Michael Jackson has been my all-time favorite artist and entertainer. Like many people around the world, I was fascinated with him. For me, I never knew the young, wide-eyed handsome boy from Gary, Ind. who stole everyone’s hearts singing, “Who’s Lovin’ You.”

The Michael Jackson that I knew wore a perfectly coiffed Jheri curl, glittery jackets and penny loafers. He was magical, captivating and spellbinding. His killer dance moves, charisma and undeniable sex appeal were unmatched. Even as a child, I knew I was witnessing something that the world had never seen before.

Throughout the years, like millions, I was mesmerized by his music, impressed by his philanthropy and inspired by his undying passion to be the greatest entertainer on earth.

When he died on June 25, 2009, the world lost a part of American culture. Michael Jackson’s impact on music, artistry, dance, film and fashion is indisputable. He single-handedly transformed music videos and laid the foundation for others, especially black artists to follow.

That’s why I was so honored to cover and attend the King of Pop’s Diamond Birthday Celebration at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas yesterday. He would’ve been 60 years old. The legendary musician’s memory was commemorated with two special performances of “Michael Jackson ONE” Cirque du Soleil show at the Michael Jackson Theatre.

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Me with my cousin and photographer, Nicole Rogers.

If you’ve never seen “ONE,” which is in its fifth year of production, make your way to see it – trust me, you won’t regret it.

One part of the show brought me to tears because of the intense, raw emotion that Michael’s music exudes. It was jam-packed with some of his most popular songs coupled with awe-inspiring acrobatic feats.

From entertaining dance moves to thrilling costumes, it’s a feast for the eyes and ears.

Preceding the shows, there was a star-studded VIP red carpet with Gabrielle Union, Tito and Jackie Jackson, DJ Quik, Vanessa Hudgens and a host of others. The night was topped off with an off-the-charts (or is it off the wall?) after-party held at Daylight Nightclub featuring celebrity DJ Mark Ronson.

At the party, guests were treated to a special performance by the multi-talented entertainer, Usher.

While the Grammy-award-winning singer got the crowd pumped and party started with his upbeat hits like “OMG,” “Yeah” and “DJ Got Us Falling In Love,” he brought the house down when he paid tribute to the Gloved One with riveting renditions of “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough,” “Rock With You,” and “Day and Night.”

If there was anyone who could possibly fill Michael’s entertaining shoes, it would be Usher and that was evident last night.

At the end of the fun-filled celebration, Michael’s kids Paris and Prince Jackson accepted the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation Legacy Award for their father and launched an auction for the charity.

Although Michael is no longer here, his legacy and spirit lives on and it was felt last night in Las Vegas.

It was an incredible, unforgettable celebration that will stay with me forever.

Long, live the king!

What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Featured, Features | 2 Comments

Review: Beyoncé & Jay Z On the Run Again at Soldier Field

August 13, 2018

When it comes to music legends, only a few names come to mind. Michael, Prince, Whitney and of course Beyoncé.

Unfortunately, I never got the chance to see Michael Jackson, Prince or Whitney perform live before their untimely deaths, but I did get the opportunity to see the incomparable former Destiny Child frontwoman this past weekend.

To be clear, I saw Beyoncé in concert 15 years ago when she joined Tamia, Alicia Keys and Missy Elliott for Verizon’s Ladies First Tour in 2003. Sure, I saw Beyoncé, but not THE Beyoncé we know and love today. At that time, she was coming into her own as a solo artist beyond the confines of the quartet-turned-trio pop group that made her a household name. Oh, and Miss Knowles wasn’t even the tour’s headliner. Hard to imagine, right? Well, a lot has changed in 15 years.

Fast forward to today and she’s Mrs. Carter, a mother of three selling out stadiums with her husband, Jay Z. The power couple joined forces a second time for their “On the Run II,” tour—making stops around the country following their international leg of the show.

Although I live in Brooklyn, as a native Chicagoan, I wanted to see the show in the Windy City with my cousin and am glad I did. Seeing the powerhouse duo take the stage together at Soldier Field with the city’s gorgeous, gleaming skyline in the background was an unforgettable experience.

Chicago’s breathtaking architectural beauty was the perfect backdrop for what would be a phenomenal, music-filled night.

With scores of hit songs between them, it’s a difficult feat squeezing two Grammy-award winning catalogues into one show, but they did.

From Beyoncé’s chart-topping songs like, “Formation,” “I’m Sorry,” and “Crazy in Love,” to Jay Z’s “Song Cry” and “The Story of O.J.,” the couple performed songs that got the crowd going well, apeshit.

But nothing got the audience more excited than when they performed together. That is what people paid to see, right? The superstar singer and the hip-hop legend make music magic for loyal, enthusiastic fans. And magic was made. When they graced the stage performing renditions of their classic duets like, “Me and My Girlfriend,” “Drunk in Love,” and “Déjà vu” the crowd went wild.

Throughout the night, the pair took audiences on a musical journey — essentially, it was a love story set to song. Like every love story, there are ups and downs and it just so happens that their story has been in the spotlight for years, spawning subsequent musical masterpieces. Hello, “Lemonade” and “4:44.”

The nearly two-and half-hour show was filled with amazing costume changes, energizing music and love. The bond between Beyoncé and Jay Z is palpable. Like most relationships, they’ve been through a lot, but seem to still have “Love on Top.”

If you get an opportunity to see the living legends live, take it – you won’t be sorry. Check out Beyonce.com for the remaining tour dates.

Have you ever seen Beyoncé/Jay Z in concert? If so, what was your experience?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

GoGo squeeZ Wants to Send You on Dream Vacation to Walt Disney World

August 8, 2018

Ever dreamed of taking your family on a Walt Disney World vacation? If so, keep reading.

My friends at GoGo squeeZ are hosting an incredible sweepstakes that includes an all-expense paid 4-night/5-day trip for four to the most magical place on earth, Walt Disney World Resort.

With four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom) to explore, one lucky winner can make priceless, magical memories that will last a lifetime. From the new Toy Story Land attractions at Hollywood Studios to Pandora’s World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom, each park is uniquely distinct and filled with delicious eats, exhilarating rides and unforgettable experiences for all to enjoy.

Additionally, the winner will also receive a $500 Disney gift card for food, souvenirs and other fun things to make the trip even more magical. If that wasn’t enough, the prize pack also includes a one case of GoGo squeeZ—72 pouches of nutritious goodness.

My family and I love GoGo squeeZ and Disney so it’s a no-brainer that we’re going to enter this sweepstakes too!

So, now until October 31^st, you’ll have the chance to meet Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the Disney gang in Orlando. Enter today—your dream vacation awaits. Good luck!

For full sweepstakes details, visit gogosqueez.com/squeezthemomentsweeps

Have you ever taken a Disney World vacation? If so, what’s your favorite park?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

‘Insecure’ x Tidal Event Recap Plus 5 Reasons Why It’s the Best Show On TV

August 7, 2018

It’s time to clear your Sunday evenings for the next couple of months.

Our favorite besties Issa (Issa Rae) and Molly (Yvonne Orji) are back for the third season of HBO’s hit show, “Insecure,” premiering Sunday, April 12.

Set through the lens of Issa, a young black woman living in Los Angeles — the groundbreaking series brilliantly showcases the ups and downs of life for young black women. The hilarious, yet thought-provoking semi-topical show will undoubtedly keep us glued to our screens as we watch the relatable and likable characters navigate their way through the insecurities that come with dating, friendship, work and all-around “adulting.”

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a private screening and pop-up event hosted by HBO and Tidal to celebrate the upcoming season premiere. From carnival-style games to a karaoke station staged like Issa’s bathroom mirror rap sessions, the cheeky “adulting ain’t easy” theme was personified at every turn.

After settling in with tasty bites and refreshing drinks, attendees got a sneak peek of the season’s first episode. If the premiere is any indication of what’s to come, fans are in for tons of laughs and awkward, cringe-worthy moments.

Here’s why I’ll be watching “Insecure” this season (and seasons to come):

It showcases the intricacies of true black female friendships, which is rarely seen on television.
Between Issa’s beautiful braids and regal corn rows to Kelli’s (played by Natasha Rothwell) gorgeous wash-and-go styles, the natural hair inspiration showcased is endless.
Hardly anyone’s path to love is without detours, a few wrecks and countless bumps in the road. The series shows just how messy the journey can be as the varied characters make their way through the good, the bad and the ugly of dating.
The show manages to highlight the racial microaggressions young black professionals face in the workplace in a comical, light-hearted way, which in reality is far from funny. I believe showing these conflicts can open people’s eyes who may be guilty of inflicting similar microaggressions at their jobs, which will hopefully inspire them to change their ways.
It exemplifies black excellence. Sure, some of the characters have their flaws, but don’t we all? The fact that the series was created by black people, written by black people, features black people, represents black people and showcases music made by black people, I think that makes it the epitome black excellence!

Below, check out pics from the event:

Are you an “Insecure” fan? If so, what do you love the most about the series? Also, if you’re not already streaming the soundtrack on Tidal, what are you waiting for?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

5 Inspiring Quotes to Celebrate National Friendship Day

August 4, 2018

They say the best things in life are free.

When it comes to friendship, that sentiment couldn’t be truer. This Sunday, celebrate your besties in honor of National Friendship Day.

Throughout life’s ups and downs, friends are always by our sides. Whether they’re cheering us on, giving advice or lending their shoulders to cry on, friends play an incredible role in our lives. Essentially, they’re the family that we’ve chosen for one reason or another. Maybe you went to elementary school together or bonded over the fact that you both love the movie “Brown Sugar” or started chatting in the playground while your kids played hopscotch, no matter how friendships blossom, it’s a beautiful thing when they do.

I’ve been blessed with many friendships throughout the years. Sure, some have fizzled while others have flourished, but I’m grateful for them all. I believe we learn a little bit about ourselves by the friends we choose. Perhaps a friend brings out your humorous side while another encourages you to explore the world — good friendships have a positive impact on our well-being. Like rare gems, no two friendships are the same. Each person adds something different to our lives and that’s what makes them special.

The Joy of Friendship by Jackie Corley available here, $12.

Collecting books on friendship has been a hobby of mine for more than a decade. No matter how many books I read, I’m always intrigued and fascinated by the intricacies that result in two people clicking and connecting socially. I’ve recently added, “The Joy of Friendship,” a new release from Jackie Corley to my growing collection. The book features 200 inspiring and uplifting quotes about you guessed it, friendship. From Aristotle to Muhammad Ali, the book is chock full of funny, thought-provoking and delightful quotes about the beauty of friendship.

Genuine friendship is a precious, two-way street relationship that should never be taken for granted. I’m grateful for my friendships and I’m proud to be a friend.

Here are 5 of my favorite quotes from the book:

*”The pieces I am, she gather them and gave them back to me in all the right order.” —Toni Morrison

*”Honesty and openness is always the foundation of insightful dialogue.” —bell hooks

*”It’s the friends you can call up at 4 a.m. that matter.” —Marlene Dietrich

*”The best time to make friends is before you need them.” —Ethel Barrymore

*”Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.” —Muhammad Ali

What’s the most thoughtful thing your friend(s) have ever done for you?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 1 Comment

Samsung and Boys & Girls Club Partnership Empowers Students to Explore STEM

August 1, 2018

With summer winding down and back-to-school season around the corner, it’s time to get your kids prepared for the school year ahead.

Thanks to Samsung and the Boys & Girls Club of America, children ages 9 to 12 can get an academic jumpstart on STEM-centric (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects to prevent summer “brain drain.”

Through the partnership, kids can participate in science-based activities keeping their minds sharp and active for rest of the summer. With fun experiments and observations that focus on everything from creating a circuit board to making a fidget spinner—the 5-week program is filled with enriching, hands-on projects that help them understand how things work in the world around them.

Not only does the program help kids learn and stay busy, it also aids in sparking interest in STEM subjects that will undoubtedly drive the jobs of tomorrow. Exposing young people to STEM and giving them the opportunity to explore those concepts, sets them up for success by fostering a passion that will lead to lucrative careers in the future that will help maintain a strong economy.

With so many children faced with limited access to learning during out-of-school time, specifically STEM-related programs, this partnership is crucial and groundbreaking because it’s available to everyone. Whether it’s in-Club or in the comforts of their homes, youth can enjoy DIY-STEM projects (with adult supervision) to keep them engaged all summer long.

Simply visit the Boys and Girls Club of America’s website and download all the STEM projects and experiments here.

Week 1: The first week will explore the fundamentals of energy and electricity.

Week 2: The second week will educate youth on the basics of engineering and design.

Week 3: Kitchen skills will be put to the test during the third week’s focus on food chemistry.

Week 4: The fourth week will investigate aeronautics and how they affect everything we do.

Week 5: Physical education will be front and center as youth are educated on the human body during this final week.

If you know a child who will enjoy learning about STEM through exciting, educational experiments, then this summer program is something you don’t want to miss!

Has your child expressed interest in STEM-related activities? How do you keep your child mentally stimulated during the summer months? Share your comments below and via Twitter using the hashtags, #BGCAandSamsung #DIYSTEM.

Category: Featured, Gumbo Mix, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment