Tag: Entertainment

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Former NFL Player Keion Carpenter and The Carpenter House – Building Blocks Awards Gala

The Carpenter House will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary with the Building Blocks Awards (BBA) Gala black-tie fundraiser on Sunday May 1. Created with the mission to create affordable housing, funds raised at the annual BBA Gala will help provide adequate shelter for families in need. The BBA Gala will be hosted by Q Parker of the R&B sensation 112, with a live performance by Stellar Award Winner Jason Nelson.

In addition to the special awards presentation, the BBA Gala, which will be held at the Lower Level of the Mondawmin Mall, will also include dinner and dancing. Tickets for the event are available to the general public at $100 per person. Table sales and sponsorship options are also available.

When asked about the annual Gala Chief Executive Officer and Founder of The Carpenter House, Keion Carpenter said “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care. Giving back to the city that has giving me so much, is a dream come true. The city will never be same after Sunday night May 1st!”

Since 2006, the Carpenter House has been committed to delivering services that rebuild communities through education, mentorship, physical activity and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The Carpenter House aims to strengthen and empower families from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing access to resources, activities, and environments that enable them to reach their highest social and economic potential. Recognizing that creating safe and affordable housing is the center for strengthening families, the Carpenter House addresses the issue through the Carpenter House Communities (CHC) program.

Working in partnership with local government agencies and community/civic organizations, CHC purchases and accepts donated homes within Baltimore City. CHC then rehabilitates the homes making them available to qualified low-income and single-parent families that would otherwise not be able to experience the dream of homeownership. Through a partnership with the Wells Fargo Community & Urban Stabilization Program and M&T Bank, The Carpenter House purchased its first home in 2015. Since its purchase, the home has been completely rehabilitated and currently has a single-parent family living in the home.

The Mondawmin Mall is located at 2800 Liberty Road, Baltimore MD and the event begins at 7:00 PM. For tickets and or sponsorship information for the Building Blocks Awards Gala visit www.blocksgala.org.

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Shirley Murdock Celebrity Interview – Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love

Style + Life + Fashion had the opportunity to interview Shirley Murdock, R&B singer-songwriter and superstar.  She can also be seen performing during the upcoming event, “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love” on April 9, 2016 at the Murphy Fine Arts Center.

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Who are your inspirations? (as in other artists)

My inspiration comes from artists who sing from a deep place, able to not only tap into their emotions, but make you experience the story and make you feel something thru the songs they sing: Aretha, Gladys, Stevie, Patti, Luther, Michael Jackson, Shirley Caesar, The Clark Sisters.

How did you get started as an artist?

I was discovered by the late Roger Troutman, front man for the funk band Zapp. He heard me singing “Jesus Is Love” for a gospel crusade, on a cassette tape that my cousin Jill beg my mom for a copy to let him hear.

Like the many previous offers that I received to do R&B, I said thank you, but no thank you, because after giving my life to the Lord at 15 years old, I believed I was only suppose to sing Gospel. Roger informed me that he didn’t have any connection there, but left the door open, should I ever want to give it a try.

I basically left there asking God why are the only doors opening are R&B and not Gospel? After praying, soul searching, talking to my family, pastor and remembering that my relationship and witness was constant, regardless of the jobs I’ve held. We take our faith and light everywhere God plants us.

So, I walked by faith thru the open door and it’s been and continues to be an amazing journey!

Who are your favorite singers?

As mentioned before, Aretha, Gladys, Stevie, Patti, Luther, Michael Jackson, Shirley Caesar and The Clark Sisters are my biggest inspirations, but I have to say, I love me some Whitney Houston, Vesta and Teena Marie, Natalie Cole (Gone Too Soon) and Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Lalah Hathaway, Kelly Price and Mary J. Blige!

What do you think about when your preforming?

When I’m performing, I think about how incredibly blessed I am to be living my dream and how these wonderful people have played such an incredible role in making that happen. It’s very humbling, because there are so many artists out there to choose from. I’m grateful, because it doesn’t have to be me!!!

This make me want to give my audience my all. I’ve been given so much, now it’s my turn!

What else can we expect from you in the future?

These 30 plus years in the business has allowed me to hone my skills as a singer, writer, arranger, actor and speaker. My desire is to continue to use my gifts to bring joy and inspiration to the world. I have books to write and Master Classes to do, to share knowledge and experience with the next generation.
I think we should die empty!!
I’m currently working on a “Life Song” project that has a nice balance and blend of inspirational songs with songs about life and love!

Entertainment /

YUNA FEATURED ON VOGUE – MALAYSIAN SINGER-SONGWRITER

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Malaysian singer-songwriter, entrepreneur, and fashion designer, Yuna, was featured in Vogue Online. The feature focuses on Yuna’s upcoming album, Chapters, which is set for a May 20th release date via Verve Records. Read the feature here.

“The Malaysian-born, LA-based singer-songwriter is preparing to release a new album, Chapters, in May, made with a host of Hollywood super-producers.”

The feature comes right of the heels of Yuna’s release of “Places To Go” produced by DJ Premier. Watch the official video for the track here.

The mesmerizing songstress is kicking of her US Tour on April 29 in Washington D.C. – tickets can be purchased online here.

Stay Up To Date With Yuna
http://yunamusic.com/
https://twitter.com/yunamusic
https://www.instagram.com/yunamusic/
https://www.facebook.com/yunamusic/

Accessories /

Beyonce and Blue Ivy Carter – White House Easter Roll

The Carter family attended yesterday’s White House Easter Roll in Washington D.C.  According to the photos, Jay Z, Beyonce, and Blue Ivy created a lot of media buzz.  Celebrities such as Monica and the cast from Blackish snapped pictures with the famous family.

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Readers also shared their enthusiasm for Beyonce (as a mother) allowing Blue Ivy to participate in such a tradition.  In true fashion frenzy, Blue Ivy wore a white fur coat and cute bunny ears.  Beyonce was seen in a Marco De Vincenzo midi dress.

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Crystal L. Bass Returns to Baltimore – Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love

Find out what happens when a mother chooses romance over family in Crystal L. Bass’ Inspirational stage play “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love.” Bass is the first female alumni to bring her hilarious and inspirational stage production to the Murphy Fine Arts Center!

Playwright and Executive Producer Crystal L. Bass gears up to share her highly anticipated stage play “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love” for a three show performance in Baltimore at The Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center on Friday, April 8th – 8pm, and Saturday, April 9th -3pm and 8pm featuring an all-new, star studded cast.

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Bass shared “I am so excited to perform at my alma mater! Especially since it’s an HBCU during the one-year anniversary of the passing of Freddie Gray and the Baltimore riots. This event will be a great time for everyone to come together- laugh and have a good time. It’s really important to me that we change the narrative behind what the world saw last April.”

Bass assures that this show about a Baltimore family’s struggles will deliver on the laughs, the drama and powerhouse singing. The new cast includes International R&B Superstar Shirley Murdock, Actor Cross Thompson, Grammy nominated artist, Brittney Wright, American Idol Finalist, Wayne Wilson and from HBO’s The Wire, Comedian Howard G. Joining the production for the second time, from the CW’s “The Next” Finalist, Shannon Ramsey and National Gospel Recording Artist, April Hall and rising star, Kirk Thomas, Jr.

A past attendee stated “I can’t wait to see this amazing production again! Crystal L. Bass is remarkably talented. A great playwright! I’m officially a fan!”

The hilarious urban stage play chronicles the story of a family torn by the decision made by its matriarch to pursue romantic love over her children. Filled with interesting twists and unpredictable turns Bass promises an entertaining experience the entire family can appreciate. The play is an adaptation of Bass’ top selling novel “Dark Clouds: A Charm City Family’s Struggle” and loosely based on her experiences growing up in Baltimore.

Ticket prices range from $30-$58 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at

ticketmaster.com.

EVENT DETAILS:
STAGEPLAY: Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love DATE: April 8-9, 2016
SHOWTIMES: April 8th – 8pm | April 9th – 3pm & 8pm

LOCATION:

Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center

2201 Argonne Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218
TICKET PRICE: Range $30-$58
Purchase tickets from ticketmaster.com OR at the Murphy Fine Arts Box Office

ABOUT AIN’T NO LOVE LIKE A MOTHER’S LOVE:

What’s a mother of three to do when she has two fully-grown children and the youngest clamoring to become a woman? Doesn’t she deserve happiness? Shouldn’t she be able to get her groove back? In “Ain’t No Love Like A Mother’s Love” mom feels it’s time to move on with her life but when she finds herself at the feet of a man with a dark side it spells disaster for the entire family. During this emotional rollercoaster ride we watch this Baltimore family fight to pull through some of life’s harshest realities as family secrets are uncovered and rescue attempts fail. But all hope is not lost. We find that nothing can fill the void of a mother’s love. In the midst of the drama this engaging stage production will have you laughing, crying and gasping at the twist and turns. One thing’s for sure, this inspirational story of redemption and forgiveness will leave theatergoers with an entirely new appreciation for family and the depths of a mother’s love. Based on the original novel by Crystal L. Bass, “Dark Clouds: A Charm City Family’s Struggle.”

ABOUT PLAYWRIGHT AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER CRYSTAL L. BASS:

Playwright and Executive Producer, Crystal L. Bass is an American author, writer, and motivational speaker with a track record of success. Throughout her career, this Baltimore native has used her platform to uncover and illuminate issues that are important to young women, to ultimately empower and strengthen them.

A two-time author, Bass’ life’s work is rooted in the desire to raise awareness and inspire people to fulfill their true purpose. Her goal is to expand her publishing company and publish other talented writers who share her desire to inspire through their stories. Bass was honored and recognized by the Rainbow Push Coalition a Top Inspirational and Engaged Leaders of 2013.

Event /

Alabama Gulf Coast Convention Joins Food Sport

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Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, known across the country as Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (www.orangebeach.com), has signed as the 2016 title sponsor of the World Food Championships (www.WorldFoodChampionships.com), making Orange Beach, Alabama the Official Host Site of this year’s ultimate food fight.

The arrangement ensures the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area capitalizes on the energy, excitement and economic impact of an anticipated 1,200 chefs, home cooks and competition teams who will compete for World Food Championships’ $350,000 prize purse and its industry-leading $100,000 grand prize.

The event, which last year attracted competitors from 45 states and 17 countries, will take place Nov. 9-15 at The Wharf (www.alwharf.com), a resort destination with a full-service marina, retail, dining and entertainment options anchored by a multi-use event center and a 10,000-seat amphitheater.

“Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism and our Sports Commission are excited to step into the arena of competitive food sport with the World Food Championships coming to our beach destination,” says Vice President of Sales Beth Gendler. “Sports has truly diversified our destination, and this event helps us diversify even further.

“One of the focuses of the sports commission is to build shoulder season business, and the World Food Championships will be a very impactful event in both room nights and number of people visiting our community during the fall shoulder season,” Gendler said. “It is our pleasure to welcome these national and international food competitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast this November.”

All told, World Food Championships is expected to bring an estimated $2 million in direct local spending as it draws thousands of foodies and Food Sport enthusiasts to the Alabama Gulf coast, elevating hotel and vacation rental bookings, restaurant spending and other community revenue metrics that come with such signature events.

The deal also connects Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism with World Food Championships’ universe of marketing assets, including national media exposure which eclipsed 794 million impressions last year, as reported by independent media monitoring service BurrellesLuce.

The World Food Championships has experienced rapid growth since its creation in 2012 as the richest and largest Food Sport competition in the world. From a 30% annualized growth in competitors, to its second TV series scheduled to air summer 2016 on Destination America, the WFC has evolved into a year-long quest for thousands of competitors and foodies, as well as a marketing platform for innovative companies.

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism welcomes more than 5.7 million individuals to the Alabama Gulf Coast each year for family reunions, vacations, meetings and sporting events. Marked by its sugar-white sand beaches, deep-sea fishing and countless family attractions, the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area is one of the world’s leading beach destinations, annually attracting more than 5 million visitors. Centrally located along the Gulf Coast, and a short drive from airports in Pensacola, Fla. and Mobile, Ala., Orange Beach’s lodging properties are ideal for beach-side access or inland retreats that are both convenient and affordable. A spectrum of local dining, upscale shopping, fishing, golf, nature and adventure-based excursions also contribute to a spectacular vacation, holiday or leisure experience.

The bulk of these Orange Beach-based food fights will occur in Kenmore Kitchen Arena, the largest outdoor kitchen in the world, measuring a full city block at 7,800-square feet. The competition space features $250,000 worth of Kenmore branded stoves, cooktops, countertops and cookware – enough for 50 chefs to cook simultaneously. An additional $100,000 worth of professional grills from Bull Outdoor Products affords open-flame grilling.

To learn more about the WFC and its qualifying events, tournament-style process or consumer experiences, visit www.worldfoodchampionships.com.

To learn more about Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, visit www.orangebeach.com

To learn more about The Wharf, visit www.alwharf.com.

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About the World Food Championships:
The World Food Championships (www.WorldFoodChampionships.com) features hundreds of competitors seeking food fame and fortune. The fifth annual event, scheduled for Nov. 9-15, 2016 at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama, invites the champions from the biggest and best food competitions around the world into a single highstakes culinary showdown for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. Follow World Food Championships on Twitter (@WorldFoodChamp), and Facebook and Instagram (@WorldFoodChampionships).

About Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism:
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism serves as the official destination marketing organization for the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in addition to the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan. To learn more about the whole different state of discovery on Alabama’s 32 miles of white-sand beaches, visit either www.GulfShores.com or www.OrangeBeach.com. This convention and visitors bureau is an accredited Destination Marketing Organization (2012-2016). Follow Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism on Twitter (@AlabamaBeaches), Instagram (@GulfShoresOrangeBeach) and Facebook (@AlabamaGulfCoast).

Accessories /

LALA ANTHONY, NATURI NAUGHTON, AND LELA LOREN – THE BEAUTY OF POWER EVENT

LALA ANTHONY, NATURI NAUGHTON, AND LELA LOREN LOOK STUNNING AT THE “BEAUTY OF POWER” EVENT
PRESENTED BY STARZ AT THE CROSBY HOTEL

On Friday, the cast of STARZ’s #1 show “Power” came together to discuss everything beauty related

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LaLa Anthony

Dress: Rachel Zoe
Shoes: Christina Louboutin

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Naturi Naughton

Dress: Tiger of Sweden
Shoes: Tamar Collection

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Lela Loren

Dress: Tory Burch

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From L to R: Naturi Naughton, Lela Loren, LaLa Anthony

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From L to R: LaLa Anthony, Naturi Naughton, Omari Hardwick, Lela Loren

Celebrity /

Saoirse Ronan at the Oscars: Get The Look

HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 28: Actress Saoirse Ronan attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 28: Actress Saoirse Ronan attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 28: Actress Saoirse Ronan attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)
HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 28: Actress Saoirse Ronan attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

The Look: Sultry, youthful and voluminous

The Inspiration: Celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel was inspired by the construction and details of the Calvin Klein dress. “I wanted to give her an undone, textured blowout with a brushed out beautiful wave hand raked back away from the face,” he says.

How to Get the Look:

  • He started by applying John Frieda® Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full™ Mousse all over the roots on towel dried hair. He then air-dried the hair with 100% cold air to achieve maximum volume.
  • Then using a medium sized round brush, he dried the hair applying hot air to form the style.
  • Then he divided the hair in two-inch sections and wrapped each section into a Velcro roller allowing it cool and set. He did this throughout the entire head.
  • Before removing the rollers, he sprayed John Frieda® Luxurious Volume Forever Full™ Hairspray to set the look. He then removed the rollers, applying more spray to a Mason Pearson brush and brushed the hair into soft textured sexy waves.
  • He then backcombed the front pieces of hair to create height for a sexy sultry side swept effect.
  • To finish, he misted John Frieda Luxurious Volume Forever Full™ Hairspray to lock in the style for the night.