Month: March 2022

Birmingham /

BLOOM: FAITH, FASHION, AND BUSINESS EMPOWERMENT SERIES SPOTLIGHT: LaToya Thomas

BLOOM readers, I would like to introduce LaToya Thomas.  Realtor, Motivational Speaker, and Empowerment Coach, LaToya has BLOOMED in the Birmingham, Alabama community.

With her newly trademarked platform, Breakfast With Toy™, she imparts empowerment to those around her; making the bridge between women in entrepreneurship and female power!

BLOOM SPOTLIGHT:  LaToya Thomas

  • When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person who comes to mind and why?

When I think of a successful person, or the first person that comes to mind, it’s my Mother Sharon Kelley. I’ve always had a very good role model to look up to. She’s what I call pretty powerful. Ambitious. Always goal oriented and succeeding. She’s a wife of 35 years, a mother of two girls and Grandmother of two girls. She’s conquered so much in life and forever looking to grow in her purpose.

  • What is the number one way we can make a difference in our community?

I don’t know if there’s a number one way but I know change begins in the mind and at home first. As children our parents teach us about “self esteem”, confidence, gratitude, thankfulness, and most importantly God.

  • What has helped you get to where you are and what advice would you give to others on the same path?

My personal relationship with God. My parents set the foundation, the standard and my heart for God grew from there. As far as business I worked hard at my 9 to 5 and did the best I could, most of the time. Knowing life isn’t perfect and when I don’t get it right or I fail, give it another try. Continuing to grow in my Faith. And really when the time was right, God saw fit for me to get into the real estate business with my husband.

  • Do you have a specific experience where you wish you had done things differently?

I wish I had been brave enough to attend college out of state. Like Atlanta. I’m a homebody and I love it. But there’s so much more out there to witness. I know God knows my heart and knows I’m telling that young girl who had the opportunity to go anywhere, that my family would be right there when I returned home. So that’s one reason for God making me an entrepreneur. He’s giving me another shot at exploring more.  (smile) Being an entrepreneur allows me to grow in so many ways. I lost quite a bit during the pandemic, as far as business goes, but I gained an even amazing woman in myself.

  • Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?

I try to remember as much as I can about what the word of God says. Not verbatim but just what I need.

Follow LaToya Thomas and learn more about her platform on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, and Keller Williams website.

“EMPOWERED WOMEN, EMPOWER WOMEN!”
Accessories /

4 Simple Yet Effective Ways To Jazz Up Your Outfit

If you are real life fashionista and like to take care of your appearance, then this article could be of great use to you. Everyone likes to look their best as the clothes that you wear and the way that you present yourself can tell the world a lot about you. So, it is important to project a positive image out there for all to see. Continue to read on in order to learn some simple, yet effective ways that you can jazz up your outfit.

  1. Jewelry

A simple yet effective way to make any outfit pop is to add some sparkle and character in the form on jewelry. If you are unsure of how to choose the right jewelry for your outfit then don’t worry as some tips are listed below:

  • Focus on the necklines – for example, if you are wearing a V-neck then you may want a shorter necklace. Alternatively, if you have a boat neck, then you want a necklace that is longer. A turtleneck is great for earrings and bracelets, and pearls would go well with a sweetheart neck.
  • Do not go overboard – adding one or two pieces of jewelry is often more than enough. This is especially true for formal events when you want to look elegant. Choosing a few high-quality pieces such as crystal silver rings is highly recommended.
  • Choose a focal piece – if you have lots of loud and bold jewelry, it is advised that you do not wear them altogether. Instead, choose one bold piece out of your collection to be the focus.
  1. Shoes

Never underestimate the power of shoes! While you may not realize it, your shoes are one of the first things people look at when they see your outfit. So, be sure that your shoes match well and compliment your outfit. It is important to remember to clean your shoes too. Do not neglect this as leaving the house with muddy or dirty shoes is not a great look. Be sure to read the care instructions so that you can take care of the fabric of the shoe properly.

  1. Have the right bag

Another important consideration is the bag. Of course, not all outfits require a bag. However, if you plan on taking some essential items with you, taking a bag with you is recommended. A bag is a great way to add some color into your outfit if color is what you are lacking. So, if you are feeling an all-black look then you could pair this with a colorful bag to break up all the black shades.

  1. Makeup

Makeup for many is a great way to jazz up your outfit. You could go for a natural look if you please or you can find a way to match your makeup look with your outfit. For example, if you are wearing an orange shirt as part of your look, then why not compliment this with some orange eye make-up.

Kamala Harris /

New Biographies for Kids About Trailblazing Women of Color – Women’s History Month

Publishing just in time for Women’s History Month (March)  National Geographic Kids Books is debuting three new biographies that feature three game-changing, inspirational women of color who have made an indelible mark on the world.

Speak Up, Speak Out! The Extraordinary Life of Fighting Shirley Chisholm, by Coretta Scott King Honor winner Tonya Bolden with a forward by voting rights activist and current Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, is a middle grade/middle school title that is already receiving rave early reviews.  A daughter of immigrants, Shirley Chisholm’s story is remarkable — she battled racism and sexism, broke barriers and made history.  Shirley boldly spoke up for what was right and changed the political landscape by becoming the first Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, followed by a historic run for President.  And while the presidential campaign trail in 1972 did not end in victory, Shirley Chisholm shows us how you can make change happen when you speak up and speak out.
 
And….
 
This winter, the critically acclaimed National Geographic Readers series introduces the youngest readers to two modern-day women who, like Shirley Chisholm, are also political pioneers.   National Geographic Readers: Kamala Harris and National Geographic Readers: Stacey Abrams are both fully illustrated Level 2 readers penned by African American writers whose age-appropriate text bring these women — and their accomplishments — to life, helping the youngest of readers better understand who these headline makers are.  

    

 
 

National Geographic Readers: Kamala Harris (L2) by Tonya K. Grant  (National Geographic Kids Books, ages 5-8, Jan 2022, PB $4.99) Explore one of the most powerful and highest-ranking female figures in American history with this biography of Vice President Kamala Harris in this Level 2 reader.  On January 20, 2021, Kamala Harris made history. That day, she became the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to be elected as Vice President of the United States. Young readers will learn about Harris’s childhood, her early career, and her journey that led to winning the vice presidency. This early reader also explores how Harris devoted her life to helping others, from serving as the Attorney General of California, to being elected as a U.S. Senator, to working alongside President Joe Biden on the campaign trail and in the White House.

About the Author: Tonya K. Grant is an elementary school librarian and an active member of the #BlackCreatorsinKidLit community. She is committed to promoting reading and strives to inspire all children to read and see themselves in books. She lives in McDonough, Georgia with her husband and two sons. Follow her on Twitter – @TKGrant1

Essence Festival /

THE 27TH ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE HOSTED IN NEW ORLEANS

ESSENCE Communications, Inc., the leading media, technology, and commerce company dedicated to serving Black women and their communities deeply, has announced the 100% physical return of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ to New Orleans with extended virtual experiences and a commitment to creating opportunities that will economically benefit, invest and contribute to Black-owned businesses. The Festival will host a multi-generational experience entrenched in culture, equity, and celebration.

“As the nation’s largest festival by per day attendance, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture is a staple that celebrates community and empowers equity.  We are excited to welcome the family back live to New Orleans and thrilled to connect with more of our diasporic family through new digital experiences,” said ESSENCE CEO Caroline Wanga.  “Whether it be those that have three years of outfits reflective of the Festival tradition that was disrupted by the pandemic, or those who will have their inaugural Festival experience in 2022 , all are invited to immerse in the crown jewel of culture known as the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. Our almost three-decade-relationship with the City of New Orleans has been critical to the fiber of the Festival and we fully recognize and appreciate the City and its citizens for all they do to create memorable experiences for all attendees. Lastly, it is critical that we understand that what we deliver with this Festival—live and virtually—also impacts Black economic inclusion. The ability to have those that benefit from this be Black businesses is my favorite manifestation of our 2022 Festival theme, ‘It’s The Black Joy for Me.’ See you in July.”

ESSENCE looks forward to physically returning to the City of New Orleans after a hiatus due to the pandemic. The partnerships with this culture filled city have spanned more than 25 years. As the brand expands its footprint, it will continue to focus on the positive economic impact to the City and Black-owned businesses.  As ESSENCE intentionally connects deeper within the City’s culture, it is excited about bringing back new and returning activations, including concerts at the Superdome, Superlounges, ESSENCE Wellness House, ESSENCE Eats Food, Wine & Spirits Festival, the ESSENCE Studios Screening Room, The Men’s Experience, The Marketplace (which economically impacts thousands of Black-owned businesses), the Girls United track which highlights Gen Z experiences, Day of Service, E-Suite, Wealth & Power Stage, The Tech Summit and more.

Festival-goers will witness Black Joy live featuring performances from our stellar headliners including: Janet Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Kevin Hart, New Edition, The Isley Brothers, The Roots & Friends, Jazmine Sullivan, Summer Walker, D-Nice & Friends and many more. Additional talent and experiences will be announced soon. 

Tickets are now on sale. For tickets, access and updates on this year’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture, visit www.essencefestival.com. Join the conversation via social @ESSENCEFest. Experience The Festival on ESSENCEStudios.com and ESSENCEFestival.com. 

 

*Proof of full Covid-19 vaccination is required to participate in ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ events. 

Lifestyle /

Influencer-Owned Lifestyle Brand, Rachel Parcell, Launches SS22 Home Collection

Lifestyle brand, Rachel Parcell, launches its RP Spring Home Collection! The whimsical collection includes a floral napkin set and table runner, wicker placemats and napkin rings, as well as precious melamine plates, bowls, and glasses that are perfect for your Easter tablescape or spring soiree.
The brand, founded by influencer Rachel Parcell, is adored by celebrities including Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union, Eva Longoria and more, who have been spotted in Rachel Parcell’s feminine and flirty frocks. You can find the entire collection on their website here (affiliated with ShareASale 64685 and Skimlinks 85273) ranging from $58-$128.
Rachel’s journey to owning her own brand began with Rach + Drew, an online journal she made in 2010 to document her newlywed life with her husband. Rachel had intended this personal blog to be read only by friends and family, but her content soon proved appealing to her growing readership. Rachel formally changed Rach + Drew to Pink Peonies, focusing on her her personal style. Rachel was able to leverage her success as an influencer by launching a capsule clothing line in her name —all timeless, elegant, and feminine pieces, attainably priced for women all over the world. Rachel Parcell has grown into a lifestyle brand, offering not only highly crafted womenswear, but also mommy + me designs, home décor, and more.
Birmingham /

2022 WORLD GAMES TO CELEBRATE THE PEOPLE, POWER, AND RICH MUSICAL HISTORY OF ALABAMA IN OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONY PERFORMANCES

The initial line-up and details of The World Games 2022 Opening and Closing Ceremonies have been announced, promising two nights of unforgettable performances celebrating the rich musical and cultural history of The Games’ 2022 host city Birmingham, AL. Set for July 7 and 17 respectively at Birmingham’s Protective Stadium, the ceremonies will feature musical and theatrical performances spanning a broad range of genres and generations. With funk legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Bootsy Collins serving as Master of Ceremonies, the lineup of performers includes: Yolanda Adams, Alabama, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Bo Bice, Sara Evans, Taylor Hicks, Jamey Johnson, Nelly, Pastor Mike Jr., Martha Reeves, Sheila E., Ruben Studdard, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Worth The Wait, and Yung Bleu.
The World Games 2022 will kick off on July 7th at Protective Stadium with Unlocking The Magic: Celebrating The Power of The One. The evening will be a colorful celebration of sport and Birmingham history. Presented by Alabama Power, the presentation will feature live entertainment, special effects, honorable dignitaries and a parade of athletes representing more than 100 countries. Produced by Birmingham-based LRY Media Group, the Opening Ceremony will celebrate Birmingham’s past, present and future. Spoken word artist, musician, educator, and Birmingham native, Sharrif Simmons will be delivering a poem in the Opening Ceremonies.
On July 17th at Protective Stadium, the grand finale of The World Games 2022 – One World-One People: Celebrating Legacy, Achievement & Unity – will commemorate The Games with incredible performances and the opportunity for athletes, fans and volunteers to bid farewell to Birmingham. Presented by Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, the final presentation will include the ceremonial passing of The World Games flag to representatives of the 2025 host city: Chengdu, China.
“The World Games will bring a once-in-a-lifetime level of focus and attention to Birmingham and Alabama,” says Dr. Henry Panion, Artistic Director of The World Games 2022. “It is our goal to showcase and celebrate the very best of Alabama in presentations that are both festive and reflective, commemorating our past yet articulating the hope of our future. I wanted to combine the elements of Olympic ceremonies and Super Bowl half-time shows, with the best of my true loves… the sounds of a symphony orchestra and the pageantry, artistry, and precision of professional drum corps. Gospel Music and the sound of Gospel have influenced virtually every form of music across the globe. So, as an indigenous art form of America and Alabama, it is only appropriate that it be featured so prominently in these World Games.”
Developed in partnership with the cohort of global partners and advisers, Birmingham, AL-based Audiostate 55 Entertainment has been brought on by The World Games to create and direct the ceremonies. This year’s Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be a feast for the eyes and ears. Each evening will showcase elaborate custom costumes, props and performances, set to the backdrop of one of the largest LED displays amassed in America. The choreographed presentation of synchronized lights and immersive sound will feature a cast of over 700 combined performers across the two nights (including dancers, field pageantry artists and more), a 75-piece orchestra, and an array of choral ensembles including gospel, classical, and youth choirs, all embarking on a journey across the history of Birmingham, from its incorporation in 1871 into its future.
The World Games are returning to the United States in 2022 for the first time in more than 40 years. This year over the course of 11 days, The World Games will feature events across 34 sports, showcasing some 3,600 athletes from more than 100 countries. A total of 24 competition venues will participate in this year’s World Games, including the newly renovated Birmingham Jefferson Civic Complex.
Stay tuned for more information, including news on the forthcoming theme song of the 2022 World Games.
About The World Games:
The World Games is an extraordinary, international sports event held every four years, in the year following each Summer Olympic Games. Staged over 11 days, The Games represents the pinnacle of competition for 3,600 of the world’s best athletes in 30+ unique, multi-disciplinary sports. The World Games generates worldwide exposure for participating sports and provides a highly visible stage on which athletes from more than 100 countries compete for gold. More than 600 medals will be awarded to the competing athletes, including 200 gold medals for the ultimate champions in each discipline.
The World Games is led by the International World Games Association (IWGA), a non-profit organization that is composed of 37 International Sports Federations and recognized by The International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Follow The World Games here: