Tag: Lifestyle Blog

Lifestyle Tips /

Life in Balance Retreat in The Florida Keys

This summer the kids may be Finding Dory, but Mom is simply trying to find balance in her life.  Mom can reel in the answer this fall at Osi Mizrahi’s Life in Balance Retreat in the beautiful Florida Keys, at Largo, a private sanctuary, Sept. 26-30th. .  Largo is one of the most unique and truly private Retreat Destinations, enveloped by mahogany, palm, buttonwood trees, on the Gulf of Mexico. Largo is the all-inclusive perfect, private site for the Life in Balance retreat. The walled and gated estate, which boasts a Sunset Pier, ensures complete privacy that ensures an exclusive, relaxed luxury, eco-friendly experience yet just an hour south of Miami. This private sanctuary is the perfect destination to find balance in your life!

Presented by Retreats Unlimited, Mizrahi brings together Ayurveda, yoga and meditation in her powerhouse Ayurveda Oils and Yoga Retreat.

The retreat is designed to teach participants how to live an Ayurveda lifestyle in order to create a life filled with joy and vibrancy. They’ll learn what their Dosha is and how to optimize it through food, exercise and other self-care practices.

Days will be filled with learning rituals to take home, from morning and evening yoga and meditation to how to use Ayurveda oils to calm the nervous system to promote better skin and hair, less chronic pain and better sleep.

unnamed-99

Mizrahi studied with Ayurveda master Dr. Lad at the Ayurvedic Institute and is a certified Kundalini, Hatha, and Anusara Level 500 Yoga instructor and certified Shambhala meditation guide.  She used the practices she teaches to cure herself of 15 years of digestive issues.

The retreat is 5 day/4 nights and includes all meals, shuttle service to and from the airport, all taxes and tips, and a daily gift bag. Early bird promotional pricing for the Largo Retreat is in effect until Aug. 26th and is $3850/double occupancy or $5350/single occupancy. Airfare isn’t included, but can be booked through Retreats Unlimited.

Food & Beverage will be prepared fresh by Bill Hansen Catering, the exclusive caterers at Largo. During the past 35 years, Bill Hansen has served four U.S. Presidents, Pope John Paul II, Bill Gates, top professional athletes, singers, and hundreds of Fortune 500 firms.

The Life in Balance Retreats are curated by Retreats Unlimited. To make a reservation, review the detailed itinerary or for additional information visitRetreats Unlimited or call 312-961-3280.

Retreats Unlimited

Retreats Unlimited is a full-service retreat company offering fitness, self-improvement and wellness vacations. Unlike any other, our retreats and wellness holidays are in destinations that are unique. The resorts are luxurious and each retreat offers unique experiences. http://www.myretreatsunlimited.com/

ABC /

Talk of Alabama Lifestyle Segment – Safe Decorating for Kids Rooms

I was invited to host a lifestyle segment on ABC 33/40, Talk of Alabama and share safety tips for kids rooms. The segment was a lot of fun because I truly enjoy discussing new products with a local audience!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH:  TALK OF ALABAMA

The main focus was to bring safety awareness of products for kids rooms.  Parents must ask are home decor items functional and eliminate hazards for little ones?

As a mom, I love to decorate my kids room (especially in character themes) but there’s also consideration for electric plugs, heat consumption, contained storage bins, and comfortable sleep.

The products shown below are beneficial and can be successful in everyone’s home:

 

 1.  Blindsgalore (BG Kids Brand) Shade – recommends completely cordless blinds or shades when children in the home.  The company offers hundred of independently certified child safe blinds and shades.


2.  Kidzooz Pillow – Designed by a chiropractor, parent and grandparent, this is more than just a stuffed animal or pillow but a product that combines the two while encouraging good sleep habits.


3.  BPA Free Storage and Organizers –

  • Available in three colors – grey, pink and blue
  • Includes three pieces – a caddy, bucket and tote
  • The storage items are BPA Free and made of a durable canvas exterior.


4.  Interactive Finding Dory Wall Friend –  The interactive light-up, talking Wall Friend from uncle Milton toys is a perfect addition to a child’s bedroom.

  • Just touch the remote control button and watch as Dory lights up and talks with many fun, familiar phrases from the new Finding Dory movie.

 

Fitness /

FOREST BATHING IN COLORADO’S CANYON COUNTRY – Resort & Spa

unnamed-60

Forest bathing, a fancy term for getting back into nature, is one of the hottest trends in the wellness travel space and no one does it better than Renee Diamond, a Yogi and creator of the DiamondFit program.

From June 22-26 she takes her yoga/fitness program into the great outdoors in Colorado’s stunning Canyon Country at the boutique Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa.

During the five-day retreat participants will enjoy hiking the Lumsden Canyon, Cutler Trail and Juanita Arch hikes, toning their body and letting the beauty and serenity of the area relax and tone the mind. Daily yoga and meditation classes’ focus on building strength and flexibility of mind and body, and luxurious spa treatments pamper the spirit and soothe sore muscles. Plenty of free time is built in to the program so participants can paddle a river, ride a horse, climb a rock or simply sit poolside and drink in the Red Rock setting.

Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa has garnered awards from Forbes, Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure and Virtuoso. Its’ location nestled in Unaweep Canyon, one of the most unique red rock canyons in the world, is the ideal setting for this retreat. The program includes 5-days/4 night’s accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, shuttle service to and from the airport, all taxes and gratuities, and a daily gift bag. An Early Bird Promotion is available until June 7th for . The retreat does not include airfare, but flights can be booked through Retreats Unlimited.

The DiamondFit Retreat is curated by Retreats Unlimited and Wild Wellness Travel. To make a reservation, review the detailed itinerary or for additional information visit Retreats Unlimited or call 312-961-3280.

Retreats Unlimited

Retreats Unlimited is a full-service retreat company offering fitness, self-improvement and wellness vacations. Unlike any other, our retreats and wellness holidays are in destinations that are unique. The resorts are luxurious and each retreat offers unique experiences. http://www.myretreatsunlimited.com/

Wild Wellness Travel

Wild Wellness Travel creates balanced vacations based on a philosophy that includes stress reduction, fitness, cultural involvement, self-care and food education. With these five pillars we promote and offer transformational wellness experiences internationally. www.wildwellnesstravel.com

Celebrity /

MoCADA 2nd Annual Masquerade Ball – Celebrity Attendees

THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN

DIASPORAN ARTS CELEBRATED 16 YEARS

WITH 2nd ANNUAL MASQUERADE BALL ON

MAY 19th AT THE BROOKLYN ACADEMY OF MUSIC

Derrick Adams, The Rockefeller Foundation &

Studio One Eighty-Nine Founders Rosario Dawson and

Abrima Erwiah Were Honored with Advocacy Awards

Honorary Gala Chair Attendees Included Maxwell and Estelle – Celebrity guest attendees included Jillian Hervey of Lion Babe, Justine Skye, Fab Five Freddy & More

VIP Cocktail Reception Presented by Martell Cognacs Featured A Special Performance by Bilal and Visual Artist Laolu Senbanjo

Featured Benefit Paddle8 Art Auction Curated by Mickalene Thomas

Yesterday in Brooklyn New York, The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA), celebrated its 16th anniversary of serving the community through the arts with its 2nd annual MoCADA Masquerade Ball held on Thursday, May 19, 2016, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) Lepercq Ballroom. The annual Spring Gala fundraiser is aligned around an annual campaign to raise monies for community programs and to continually fund the development of their new larger museum in Brooklyn.

The MoCADA Masquerade Ball celebrated individuals who have positively influenced the Contemporary African Diasporan Arts and the community, including Derrick Adams who received the Artist Advocacy Award, The Rockefeller Foundation who received the Philanthropic Advocacy Award, and Studio One Eighty Nine Founders Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah who received the Social Justice Advocacy Award. The MoCADA Masquerade Ball was hosted by Tai Beauchamp and Emil Wilbekin and featured honorary Gala Chairs: Maxwell and Estelle. Celebrity guest attendees included Lion Babe, Justine Skye, Fab Five Freddy and more.

The MoCADA Annual Gala attracts individuals from New York’s most distinguished artistic and professional communities. This year, additional attendees included: Artist Kehinde Wiley, American fashion designer Charles Harbison, Isolde Brielmaier (Director of Contemporary Art Initiative, Westfield World Trade Center), Joi Brown (SVP Marketing & Brand Partnerships Atlantic Records), Kevin Parker (New York Senator), Legendary Damon, DJ MOMA, Laurie Cumbo (MoCADA Founder and New York City Council Member), Nausheen Shah (Fashion Influencer), Brett Johnson (Executive Producer of the Oscar nominated film The Butler) Zia Khan (Rockefeller Foundation) and more.

The MoCADA Masquerade Ball was underwritten by several generous corporations committed to supporting the community. The evening’s sponsors included Black Enterprise, Cholula Hot Sauce; FOX Audience Strategy, Habana Outpost, HBO, JetBlue and Martell Cognac.

Additionally, MoCADA partnered with Paddle8, the award winning online auction house that offers museum-worthy works and contemporary collectibles. Paddle 8 offered an unprecedented online auction that was curated by Mickelene Thomas and include works from artists Renee Cox, Sanford Biggers Carrie Mae Weems and more. The online auction went live on May 5th and concluded post event on May 19th. For more information, please visit www.Paddle8.com

During the MoCADA Gala’s VIP Cocktail Reception, guests enjoyed a specialty cocktail menu that featured Martell Cognac favorites. Guests also were treated to an intimate performance by R&B artist Bilal as well as live art by Nigerian visual artist Laolu Senbanjo.

MoCADA uses art to strengthen community, both locally and internationally. Through exhibitions and programming, MoCADA incites dialogue on pressing social and political issues facing the African Diaspora, and fosters a dynamic space for the creation and continuous evolution of culture. Serving both youth and adults, MoCADA challenges the traditional definitions of the “museum”, using art to impact lives both within its physical walls and throughout the wider community.

unnamed-54 unnamed-45 unnamed-43 unnamed-44 unnamed-46 unnamed-50 unnamed-47 unnamed-51 unnamed-48 unnamed-49 unnamed-53

About MoCADA
The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA) was established in 1999 as Brooklyn’s first and only museum dedicated to the creation and interpretation of contemporary Black arts and culture. Starting from humble beginnings on the fourth floor of a Bedford-Stuyvesant brownstone, MoCADA has since expanded from a grassroots startup with a social justice mission, to an internationally-recognized arts institution. Now located in Fort Greene, the museum has established a reputation for cutting-edge exhibitions and programs that cross artistic disciplines and create opportunities for emerging artists. MoCADA has produced over 60 exhibitions and 500 public programs, expanding from the museum’s main gallery to the streets, parks, schools, and public housing of Brooklyn and beyond, challenging the boundaries of the traditional museum to build community and increase public access to the arts.

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

AFRICAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL 2016 – CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

unnamed

SINGER/ACTRESS CHINA ANNE MCCLAIN AND BRAVO’S “THICKER THAN WATER” STAR CYRENE TANKARD ADDED TO “THE ROAD TO THE FESTIVAL” EVENT AS PARTICIPANTS AT THE 2016 BROWNGIRL VILLAGE RETREAT

 

Hosted by actress and producer Vivica A. Fox (Empire, Kill Bill, Set it Off, Independence Day) and actor and writer Jonathon Slocumb (The Steve Harvey Show, Meet the Browns), July 4thweekend is going to be two fun-filled days of entertainment for the entire family.

Our newest festival activation, BrownGirl Village, will debut their one day retreat during “The Road to the Festival” events on Saturday, May 21st at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, sponsored by EMC. Produced by Synregy Communications and greiBO Entertainment, this event for girls of color between ages 12-17, will empower and encourage Brown girls in underserved communities to see beyond their current situation and expose them to new possibilities through mentorship, conversation and programming.  More than 100 attendees will participate in breakout sessions, panel discussions which will instill self esteem and encourage them to continue to dream and pursue their goals.  Actress/Singer China Anne McClain (House of Payne, Daddy’s Little Girls, A.N.T. Farm) and Bravo’s “Thicker Than Water” star Cyrene Tankard will join Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Comptroller Joan Pratt to address the young girls in powerful conversation about image, the beauty within and more.

“BrownGirl Village is a great way to partner and give back to the community we live and work in.  This amazing organization also helps us to expand our brand visibility,” says Jackie Glenn, Global Chief Diversity Officer at EMC.

XFINITY Live, sponsored by Comcast and Music Choice, is the hub of the festival’s social media experience onsite and will feature a Twitter wall, live performances and must-see celebrity interviews. Music Choice will be interviewing artists and celebrities, providing candid conversations and behind-the-scenes footage from XFINITY Live. To gain exclusive access to XFINITY Live, visit the XFINITY onsite display or a local XFINITY Store.

 “BrownGirl Village and the African American Festival can only happen with the support of our sponsors and partners.  We appreciate their support and look forward to the exciting activations they are bringing to our attendees this year,” states Shelonda Stokes, CEO at greiBO Entertainment, Producer of African American Festival.

The African American Festival takes place at the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Complex on Lots B & C, between Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadiums.  Join the conversation on social media by logging on to AAF’s multiple social media platforms:

  • On Twitter by using hashtag: #BmoreAAF40, #BmoreAAF @BmoreAAF
  • On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/BmoreAAF
  • On Instagram by liking the fan page at Instagram.com/BmoreAAF

 

The 2016 African American Festival sponsors are: Comcast, Music Choice, Under Armour, Visit Baltimore, BGE, Diageo, Maryland Lottery, Caribbean Digital Network, Verizon, Dynamic Healthcare, EMC, Evergreen, Howard Stirk Holdings (HSH), Maryland Transit Authority, ShopRite, Washington Mass Transit Authority, Morgan State University, StateFarm, Care First, Colgate, Cricket, Whiting Turner, Maryland Highway, Geico and Bluffa Jo Cosmetics.

The African American Festival is hosted by Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the City of Baltimore and produced by greiBO Entertainment.

For festival updates and more information about the African American Festival, please log on to http://www.africanamericanfestival.net.

About Comcast Cable:

Comcast Cable is one of the nation’s largest video, high-speed Internet and phone provider to residential customers under the XFINITY brand and also provides these services to businesses.  Comcast has invested in technology to build an advanced network that delivers among the fastest broadband speeds, and brings customers personalized video, communications and home management offerings.  Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) is a global media and technology company.  Visit www.comcastcorporation.comfor more information.

#####

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Vino 301 Chocolate and Wine Tour – Recap

Vino 301 is a wine concierge, showcasing some of Maryland’s finest vineyards.  This amazing service allows those in the DMV area the opportunity to taste (new) wine pairings and partake in events.  I have previously shared one of their events on this site and was invited to the Chocolate and Wine Tour.

IMG_3537

Leslie Frelow (the Managing Director) greeted tour participants at the Baltimore Visitors Center.  Our luxury van included a complimentary Vino 301 tote bag, wine goblet, bottled water, and snacks.

The tour started with a brief history of local Maryland vineyards.  Leslie shared there’s seventy-two vineyards in the region and Julia Roberts was filmed for the movie Runaway Bride at Boordy Vineyards.

Our first stop was at Parfections, handmade gourmet truffles and chocolates.  During our pairing, we received a delectable array of chocolates, paired with specific types of wine. My favorite from the Chocolate pairing was the Dry Rose 2013 and Raspberry Bark chocolate (dark chocolate blended with dried and freeze dried raspberries.)

IMG_3564 IMG_3565IMG_3536

We left Parfections and drove to Boordy Vineyards in Hydes, Maryland.  The historic winery was beautiful and our wine tasting included Pinot Grigio, Dry Rose, Chardonnay, Petit Cabernet, Riesling Baltimore Oriole, Chambourgin Merlot, and Jazz Berry.  We also participated in a guided tour of the vineyard and concluded the afternoon sitting around the outdoor fire pit.

IMG_3563IMG_3560 IMG_3562 IMG_3558

The Vino 301 Chocolate and Wine Tour was a wonderful experience.  I encourage anyone who’s interested in learning more about wine and pairings to visit their social media page for upcoming events.  I will also continue to share new tours here (on our site) as they come available!

About Chocolate and Wine Tour:

DESCRIPTION

Chocolate and wine is the perfect paring. Vino 301 Wine Concierge and Parfections, Baltimore’s premiere chocolatier, presents chocolate tasting and regional Maryland wine tours. Maryland wine is paired with handmade gourmet truffles and chocolate.

Vino 301 Wine Concierge will transport you to Parfections store where the tour begins. You are lead through a tastings of handmade gourmet truffles and chocolate and wine pairing. You are later taken to one of the Patapsco Valley region’s vineyards where you enjoy a wine tasting and tour of the vineyard. Tour includes:

Parfections gourment truffles and chocolate tasting
Chocolate and wine paring instructional
Visit to a Maryland vineyard
Meet local winemaker
Light snack & beverages on the trip
All tasting fees
Receive a collectible wine glass and tote bag
15% discount on confections purchased at Parfections on tour day

Lifestyle Tips /

Sparkling Ice Teas New Flavors – Product Review

WHAT: Sparkling Ice®, part of the Talking Rain® Beverage Company portfolio, announced a new packaging design for its great tasting, zero calorie, Sparkling Ice Tea product line, which now includes Lemon Tea, Raspberry Tea, Peach Tea and new Half & Half flavors.

Sparkling Ice

The introduction of the Sparkling Ice Tea collection in early 2015 provided the brand with a new opportunity to expand on-shelf presence at retailers nationwide by offering a variety of products in assorted categories to meet a wide-range of consumer demands. The new packaging features bold colors and bright fonts designed to reflect each of the Sparkling Ice Tea flavors and refreshing characteristics.

As part of the new design debut, Sparkling Ice will also merge its current Sparkling Ice Lemonade with Tea product into the tea collection, renaming the flavor “Sparkling Ice Tea Half & Half.” Half & Half has the same great taste that consumers have come to love, and makes the perfect addition to Sparkling Ice Tea’s line of refreshing pick-me-ups that deliver just the right amount of fizz.

The full Sparkling Ice Teas collection now includes, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea, Peach Tea, and Half & Half flavors.

WHEN: April 5th, 2016

WHY: As the leaders in the sparkling water category, Sparkling Ice continuously seeks out new opportunities to meet the demands of our dedicated customers. Through the redesign and expansion of its Ice Tea collection, Sparkling Ice is responding directly to consumers searching for healthier beverage options.

WHERE: The new teas packaging is currently available in select retail outlets across the country via single serve bottles. For more information about Sparkling Ice products and flavors, please visit www.SparklingIce.com and www.facebook.com/SparklingICE.

About Sparkling Ice Beverages:
Sparkling Ice beverages combine sparkling water, natural flavors, fruit juice, vitamins and antioxidants to offer a great tasting lightly carbonated beverage, all without the calories. Sparkling Ice is the Bold Side of Water, offering a bold, flavored, lightly-carbonated beverage that appeals to all age groups. Available in eleven refreshing flavors: Black Raspberry, Orange Mango, Pink Grapefruit, Kiwi Strawberry, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Blueberry, Peach Nectarine, Lemon Lime, Crisp Apple, Cherry Limeade, Strawberry Watermelon and new in 2016 Black Cherry. Sparkling Ice Lemonades, launched in 2013, are available in three refreshing flavors: Classic Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade and Peach Lemonade. Sparkling Ice Teas launched nationally in 2015 and include Peach Tea, Raspberry Tea, Lemon Tea and Half & Half flavors. SPARKLING ICE can be found in retailers nationwide. Sparkling Ice is part of the Talking Rain family of beverages, and retails for $1.19-$1.29. To locate Sparkling Ice, visit www.sparklingice.com/locate/.

Review – 

Truthfully, we consume too many beverages that are not healthy.  Our selections are either loaded with sugar, sodium, acid, or caffeine.  In a previous life (teaching Nutrition and Foods) I learned that anything your body craves is considered a deficit.  This means your body has a lack of the proper vitamins or minerals.

Sparkling Ice is a great substitute from our normal unhealthy beverages because it’s caffeine free, gluten-free, and zero calories.  To make this beverage more appealing, it comes in a variety of flavors!

My first connection with the product was actually through my husband.  He tested one for me (smile) and said, “Kim this tastes really good!”  From that point, I have started to sip Sparkling Ice as a soda substitute.  My favorite flavor is the Raspberry Tea.

Take my advice and try Sparkling Ice Tea to get on track with your dietary needs!

IMG_3625IMG_3623

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center – Spa Week

It’s been a while since I’ve indulged in a good spa service. Life can get very busy and we often forget to take time out for ourselves!

Luckily, we can (all) visit the spa and still splurge on a new pair of pumps.  Spa Week is a great time to check out local wellness or beauty centers.  Anyone can sign up on the website and find discounted treatments.  A few of the $50 services include Eucalyptus Mint Massage, Cat-Eye Lash Extensions, Aloe Vera Jelly Pedicure, or Chemical Peel Treatment.

IMG_3488-2

I was invited to visit Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center.  The service I received was the Custom Lotus Bliss Massage.

Prior to starting my treatment, the owner (Nicole Stokes) shared a few facts:

  1. The center specializes in wellness and all of the products used are organic (bath salts, lotions, candles.)
  2. The services also include special enhancements such as sinus relief massage, scalp massage, thermal softening treatment, and custom aromatherapy.
  3. The practitioners have a medical or science background which enhances the total spa experience.

 

Lotus Bliss Spa Review – 

My massage started with selecting a few essentials oils, depending on my personal preference.  I made the selection based on relaxation.  From there, I was able to smell the aroma while Nicole created a special lotion. My treatment also included a stimulating face massage (infused with essential oils.)  The steam instantly relaxed my facial muscles and allowed for easier breathing.

Nicole also shared information about the Chronic Pain and Lymphatic Massage.  This particular treatment is encouraged (or suggested after doctor recommendation) for those suffering with specific illnesses such as fibromyalgia.

IMG_3568-2

The experience of visiting Lotus Bliss Therapeutic Massage and Wellness Center was truly an educational session.  I learned a lot about aromatherapy and the health benefits associated with receiving a massage.  The center also sales products to their customers that will enhance their body treatment at home such as bath salts, essential oils, or massage balls.

Visit their website to learn more and book an appointment.

IMG_3569-2 IMG_3492-2

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.

MothersLove_Webflyer_Jan19_2016_New10-3

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.

How To /

Spa Week Spring 2016 Event – Wellness and Fitness

Technology gives us a wealth of opportunities to have a more comfortable life. We have become accustomed to tech indulgences such as shopping online, working on our tablets, posting to social media and binge watching Netflix anywhere. Everything we need to do or share is a call, text or post away. While all of these modern lifestyle techniques are extremely convenient, they are doing actual physical harm to our minds and bodies. From April 11th-17th, Spa Week is back to remind us about the importance of taking care of ourselves by treating technology-related injuries and stress. Spa Week has successfully spread this message for over a decade and their biannual events enable millions to lead a healthier lifestyle. Hundreds of spa, wellness, and fitness facilities will be offering premium full-service treatments at a major discount of $50 each. During Spa Week, set your favorite technology device aside and allow yourself the time to truly rebalance and heal your mind and body.

Using tablets, computers, and cell phones on a daily basis leads to issues such as back and neck pain, poor posture, muscle fatigue, carpal tunnel syndrome, facial sagging (phone face), vision damage, sore thumbs, anxiety, stress and more. Technology dependence has become a part of everyday life. To help alleviate these symptoms and reverse the damage caused by technology overload, spas have created treatments that specifically focus on and alleviate these technology-related conditions. During Spa Week, from April 11th-17th, signature treatments will be offered at a special rate of $50/treatment (normally $100-$500) at participating locations.

This spring, Spa Week has teamed up with spas across the country to deliver healing and therapeutic treatments to combat the effects of technology. Long hours hunched over a computer can create a myriad of problems. Haven Spa in New York City offers a unique Geek Massage (Reg. $100, Spa Week $50) that was created to address and relieve the ailments that are created from hours of computer usage. Having your phone connected to your face all day and texting leads to clogged pores and wrinkles from squinting your eyes. Holistic Touch in Virginia offers Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture (Reg. $130, Spa Week $50). With this natural face-lift you will notice a great improvement in skin tightness, clarity and evenness of tone. Lines will show improvement and meditation exercises are taught during the session to help break the habits of expression that contribute to these. Anxiety brought on by our fast paced lifestyle can be healed through the power of water. The Elizabeth Adams Salon in Illinois touts their Spa Oceana Stress Relief Treatment (Reg. $100, Spa Week $50)– a water-based stress-relief body treatment. Long day at the office? KUR Skin Lab in New York City has created an Office Relief Massage (Reg. $125, Spa Week $50). This massage treatment with guided meditation will help heal you mentally by alleviating subconscious tension along with physical and mental strain. As we sit for hours a day, tight muscles and tense necks often occur. Red Door Spas nationwide are offering a De-Stress Body Treatment (Reg. $255, Spa Week $50) including exfoliation, an aromatherapeutic body wrap and a relaxing scalp massage to melt stress away and rebalance your spirit.

In order to receive exclusive information on participating spa and wellness locations and their $50 services, spa-goers should register on SpaWeek.com as early as possible. The complete list of treatments, available on March 21st, will allow consumers to begin booking their desired services. It is recommended that spa-goers sign up and book in advance on www.SpaWeek.com to ensure they reserve their top treatment choices. Visitors to SpaWeek.com also have the opportunity to spread the gift of wellness by conveniently purchasing the Spa & Wellness Gift Card by Spa Week®. Accepted at over 8,000 spas and wellness locations across North America, Spa & Wellness Gift Cards may be used during Spa Week or any time of the year without expiration. Recipients will have the freedom to choose from thousands of locations and services, all while knowing that you have their long-term health, balance and happiness in mind.

Spa Week was created and founded by Cheryl Reid, who hails from successful careers within the luxury spa industry and publishing spheres. Joining Spa Week for the Spring 2016 Event, sponsors include Exclusive Destination Sponsor: Sandals; Exclusive Cosmetics Sponsor: Hynt Beauty; Exclusive Apparel Sponsor: Yummie by Heather Thomson; and Exclusive Trade Association Partner: International Spa Association (ISPA). The event is co-sponsored by Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) and a portion of the proceeds from the Spring and Fall Events is donated to CancerAndCareers.org

About Spa Week Media Group, Ltd.
Spa Week Media Group, Ltd. is the leading health, beauty and wellness marketing company across North America. Through its website SpaWeek.com, millions of consumers from coast to coast benefit from an abundance of resources necessary to experience a healthier, well-rounded lifestyle, 365 days a year. Since its inception in 2004, Spa Week has continued to revolutionize the industry with the success of its biannual Spring and Fall Events with signature $50 spa services, life-changing promotions and a robust gift card program. Spa Week continues its dedication of delivering the best in health and wellness year round with its Spa & Wellness Gift Card, the premier spa gift card of choice by consumers. This gift card is accepted at over 8,000 spa and wellness locations across North America and is sold in over 60,000 retail stores nationwide including Target, CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and on SpaWeek.com. It’s never been more convenient to give and enjoy the gift of wellness.