Month: March 2016

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

Style + Life + Fashion

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.

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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.

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Spa Week Spring 2016 Event – Wellness and Fitness

Style + Life + Fashion

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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.

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Easter Celebration – Simple Lifestyle Tips

Style + Life + Fashion

Easter can be an exciting holiday for everyone.  It’s the ultimate symbol of the Spring season and a time of rebirth.  Although celebrating Easter can be a lot of fun, the preparation for this joyous holiday can also be overwhelming!

As a new mom (many years ago) I wanted to attack the holiday from all angles.  My eagerness stemmed from the excitement of having my very own children.  Over the years, I’ve learned to focus on what really matters.   The small details will come together once you concentrate on the priority of the day.

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Easter Brunch 2015 – Flemings Prime Steakhouse

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Caesar Salad and Omelett

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National Aquarium visit with the boys

Easter Celebration Tips:

  1. Create your dinner menu – Decide whether your family will dine in or out.  Either option provides a good opportunity for quality fellowship.  Traditional Easter meals (if you’re cooking) include a honey glazed ham, roasted leg of lamb, baked salmon, green bean casserole, rice pilaf, scalloped potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or home-style dinner rolls.
  2. Coordinate Easter crafts with the kids – This particular tip can vary depending on your interest but the idea is to teach your family the meaning of Easter.  Quick holiday crafts include decorating eggs, planting a Spring garden, or designing Easter bookmarks.
  3. Consider taking Easter photos – Start thinking of the right location, lighting, and even the weather.  Also, we can’t forget to coordinate the perfect attire whether a traditional suit or casual spring outfit.
  4. Decorate, Decorate, Decorate – Nothing brings more excitement than putting out spring decorations.  Add a wreath to the front door, create a tablescape, or flower arrangement in the hallway.
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Easter Tablescape

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Pre-school Easter Celebration

Some of my favorite Easter traditions include Sunday morning worship, egg hunt, brunch, and spring photos.  What are some of your favorite Easter traditions, share them with us here?

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Keep Clothes Bright and Less Fading – Laundry Secrets from Downy Ball

Style + Life + Fashion

Surveys show that Americans spend a decent amount of money on clothing. Women spend about $59 and men spend about $25 a month. The average family bringing in an income of $50,000 spends about $2,000 a year on new outfits. On top of the money being invested in new shirts, pants, sweaters and other garments, laundry can be a real pain in the neck. Stain removers don’t always eliminate the entire mark left behind by spilled coffee or mystery smears, and color-enhancing detergent only extends the lifetime of clothing for so long. To help prevent having to purchase new clothes there are tips to help keep darks from fading, sneakers from tumbling into pieces in the dryer and white shirts from having ugly armpits.

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Downy Ball has compiled some of the best laundry secrets and shortcuts since the invention of the modern washing machine and dryer to help consumers look their best with minimal effort. These tips include:

  1. Buy a sneaker dryer bag to eliminate the loud banging from your shoes.
  1. To prevent color fading, toss your clothes in the wash with a teaspoon of salt for a brighter look.
  1. Wash dark clothes inside out to keep them from fading. The detergent won’t drain the color and this easy trick will keep favorite shirts and pants looking newer longer.
  1. Save time, energy and money by throwing a dry towel into the dryer with wet laundry – this will reduce moisture in the machine and speed up the drying process.
  1. Remove underarm stains with a homemade recipe instead of bleach or stain sticks. Mix Dawn dishwashing liquid, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda to create a scrub that gets stunning results.
  1. Remove grease stains with a piece of chalk. Even if you have already washed a garment hoping soap and water would do the trick, that stain isn’t a permanent part of your wardrobe and chalk can still save the day.

About Downy Ball

No more waiting for the rinse cycle. No more cleaning out the dispenser. With the Downy Ball, fabric softener is automatically released during the rinse cycle. To enjoy the convenience of Downy Ball just pour the Downy fabric softener of choice up to the right fill line in the Downy bottle cap, pour into the ball, seal it, and drop it in at the start of the wash on top of fabrics. Downy Ball will release the softener on its own, making laundry less complicated.

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