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Secret Spots To Dine in NYC: Chinese Club Lexington and Gallow Green!

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The DivaGals are officially in Paris, but we never stop thinking about home. In New York City, there are a ton of secrets spots offering delicious fare. Of course, we’ve got the key to some of the coolest!

Chinese Club Curry Hill (102 Lexington Avenue) Does a mix of Chinese and Indian cuisine work? Indeed it does! Brooklyn’s Chinese Club opened their newest location on Lexington Avenue and owners Salil and Stacey Mehta celebrated their newest venue with a private tasting for friends and VIP guests. Chinese Club Curry Hill has some really delectable offerings – be ready for the spicy items! You need to be sure and then sure again of your commitment to having a spicy dishes because the Chineses Club doesn’t waver on the spices.

Some menu favorites include the Chinese bhel salad- the only spicy salad I’ve ever had! We also enjoyed the Manchurian entree, a Mumbai dish that comes as a chicken or vegetarian kofta dish with a yummy desiwala sauce. There’s the tasty Hakka Chili Chicken, pictured above. And of course, we couldn’t leave without a little dessert in the form of the pineapple orange ice cream. All in all, our tummies were happy!

Gallow Green (542 West 27th Street) There’s a rooftop hideaway at The McKittrick Hotel – part bar, part restaurant – all gorgeous! The DivaGals spent an evening enjoying Gallow Green’s eceletic healthy menu with fresh local ingredients.

Start the evening with a plate of assorted raw vegetables with black olive tapenade and ramp aioli.

Then dig into the Vegetable pizza with baby spinach, sweet peppers, red onions, micro amaranth and kale pesto. If you’re thinking of adding anything to it – don’t. It’s perfect as is!

End your meal with the Chocolate Budino, it’s delish.

Of course, no meal is complete without a cocktail and french fries! Visit Gallow Green on the weekend for their tasty brunch, a buffet-style meal with live entertainment for just $35 per person.

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Divas Do Good! Servir Foundation Gala To Fight Chronic Kidney Disease in Africa!

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Our LA DivaGal Patrice Majorie spends an evening hanging with the former First Lady of the Republic of Cote d’ Ivoire, Africa – all for a good cause!

The Kings Law Enterprise and Servir Foundation curated a lovely fundraising gala in their efforts to fight chronic kidney disease in Africa. Founded in 1996, the Server Foundation is an international non-profit organization created by Madame Henriette Konan Bédié, who was the wife of Ivorian President Henri Konan Bédiéformer and former first Lady of the Ivory Coast from 1939-1999. The foundation’s mission is to bring together committed volunteers and donators to serve the disadvantaged in the fight against Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Africa as more than 14 percent of the adult population suffers from the disease.

Kicking off the social hour, I met Maj of Marhaba Concierge, a luxury travel company and Adele & Kristy Corwin of Build A Better World Foundation, whose aim is to support the youth by sponsoring charity concerts and events.

Hors devours catered by Wolfgang Puck were passed as guests mingled and shared resources while the DJ played all the hits, from old-school Michael Jackson to Cardi B and Bruno Mars jams. Cocktails were hosted by Royal Elite Vodka, where guests were able to select from three cocktails created by Royal Elite Vodka owner Mark Williams.

Hitting the market soon with intentions to change the vodka and liquor industry, Royal Elite Vodka lives up to its name due to its refreshing and smooth finish. In addition, modern-day nutritionists are not left out of the enjoyment as this brand carries a completely Gluten free vodka line! On the cocktail menu was a drink called “The First Lady,” which was my favorite! Light, smooth and a touch of citrus, the perfect summer cocktail!

After a good while of mingling, Madame Henriette Konan Bédié took to the podium to speak to guests, thanking everyone for their attendance and donations. She shared a bit about Servir and why this non-profit means so much to her and the people in Africa. Shortly after, Kings Law Enterprise held an auction of several notable items, including beautiful pieces of art, bottles of Royal Elite Vodka and a private jet trip to Napa Valley.

Farzam Kamalabadi of Future Trends International ended the evening’s speeches with a brief word regarding the importance of bridging the gap between North American and Africa. To finish out the night, the DJ began to turn up the volume again and we all joined the middle of the dance floor for a couple last dance-offs. Leading the pack in style was Madame Henriette Konan Bédié herself – a perfect ending to a perfect night!

This fundraiser marks The Server Foundation’s 4th International Gala. Servir targets unresolved social issues and injustices and utilizes international and national partnerships and resources to solve them. Madame Henriette raises nearly $750,000 per year in the advancement of this fight.

In addition to raising funds and awareness for CKD in Africa, Kings Law Enterprise and The Servir Foundation also aim to bridge the gap between Africa and North America to build a multicultural and multi understanding between the two lands.

FB/IG: @PatriceMarjorie

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Drink Greek. Soothe Your Skin. Stay Relaxed & Get In Shape – Old School Style!

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WEAR. After a week in Paris, we plan to hit our workouts hard! Reebok wants us to look stylish while we do. They’ve relaunched looks from their original styles back in the nineties.

The iconic athletic brand has also launched performance wear with a cool metallic vibe, as well as clothing styles from designer Pyer Moss – who is blending the line of where athletic wear ends and fashion begins. Learn more at Reebok.com.

 

 

DRINK. We may be in France, but we’re still thinking about Greece as it is a great place to visit with wonderful wines. This weekend discover the charm of Greek wines. They have a delicious red that we are loving and a sparkling Rose. Akakies Sparkling has a bright rose color, bubbles and a light floral aroma. It’s a perfect balance of dry with a touch of sweetness.

WEAR. The temperature is rising, even in rainy Paris, and our skin is going to need a little extra TLC. We discovered PROcure products. PROcure’s new Bruise Remedy Gel contains Arnica and MSM. It’s 1 percent pharma and 99 percent ingredients found in nature. Apply on bruises, eczema or other mild irritations and encourage your body’s natural healing power.

LIGHT. We love to refresh ourselves with aromatic goodness, so we’re loving the newest fragrances by NEST. We adore that they make our home smell like summer all year round.

 

 

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Five Great Birthday Gifts For The Music Lovers In Your Life!

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Got a Divagal pal who can’t live without her Rihanna? Is your nephew always tinkering with beats on his Mac? If you have a friend or family member who appreciates live performance, listens to music all the time and knows everything about their favorite bands – or even has a group of their own – you will want to choose a present that will hit their chords. Below you will find a few tips on what to get for them to be remembered for years to come.

Music Concerts.  You know  which genre and bands your friend or family member is into! So top music gift ideas include vintage concert tees, tickets to an upcoming performance maybe even  meet and greet! At Charitybuzz, they offer the chance for the highest bidder to reach their fave musicians and stars – all for a good cause. And if they love festivals and have more than one favorite band, you can get them weekly or daily tickets to a music fest that features the genres that make their heart skip a beat.

Noise Canceling Headphones. The people in your circle who would rather listen to music than make it will love a pair of professional noise canceling headphones. They will be able to enjoy music on the go; while working out, sitting on the train or bus, or simply relaxing in their room. Choose a style that they can use while running, or a Bluetooth headphone if they prefer listening to the music at home while doing household chores or DIY.

Music Lessons. Some people dream of becoming a professional singer or musician but never take the first step. If you know that deep down your friend is dreaming about a music career, you might give them a voucher for music lessons. From guitar to voice lessons, you are likely to find a friendly local school that will help them achieve their full potential and improve their skills.  You might purchase block lessons or get vouchers for an introductory course.

Studio Equipment. In case your loved one has always wanted to start a band or is thinking about getting their first demos released, you might want to look for some professional studio equipment. From soundproofing, amplifiers and professional sound systems to microphones, there are plenty of great ideas you can use to make their studio better and their recordings sound much clearer.

Personalized Guitar Pick. Some of the best gift ideas for guys and gals are personalized. If they play the guitar, you can get a personalized engraved pick for their birthday. The gift will not only make them remember you, but also be useful when they are practicing. You might even get a matching sticker for their guitar or a custom case, so they can express themselves through their personalized equipment.

Divas, these are some of the coolest ways to impress your music enthusiast friend or family member! Just start with how they love their music (as a spectator or creator); think a little outside the box and then present them with your creation! We know they will appreciate your care and thought.

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DROP THE MIC! A Divalicious Interview with Rising Songster #WBWD Kody From ATL

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Watch out Justin Bieber and Sam Smith! There’s another dope white boy we’re digging and gals we found him right in the heart of Chocolate City, the A-T-L!  Hot, new pop star Kody is bringing a sultry mix of R&B, soul, with a splash of EDM and reggae on his new debut EP entitled “Inception.”

The 21-year-old classically-trained pianist and singer, who works a full-time job while recording music at night, says he’s not just a rich white boy with privileges; music is something that lives in his blood!
At a private listening party inside Atlanta’s infamous Patchwork Studios, the birthplace of platinum-selling acts like John Legend and Keyshia Cole, a small group of industry insiders listened to Kody’s songs that take you from the beaches of Jamaica to the folding table in your laundry room.

Listen to all five tracks from “Inception” and you won’t hear lyrics like the B-word or N-word. Kody says he wants a clean, organized sound that challenges and channels emotions but not in a disrespectful way, a sound that took him time to develop an artist. On the first three tracks: “One,” “You and Me” and “Time to Waste,” you’ll hear an old soul belting out tunes to you. Kody says his music is for sex, bad breakups, cleaning up days or just having fun! “Inception is the beginning of where we’re allowed to go, Kody says. Best explained as the birth of ________ (feel free to fill in the blank based with an adjective that describes your best self)!

Raised in a military family, Kody says his inspiration for making music everyone can vibe to comes from having all types of friends from around the world, from places like Guyana, Trinidad and Amsterdam. Kody says he takes time out to really live, to create meaningful memories and to learn from other artists. Kody is currently signed to an independent label run by his parents. That’s right – his parents are the brains behind Corps Dynamic Music!

“Inception” will be out soon but for now, check out the newest single from Kody called “Higher,” available on Sound Cloud at kodymusicofficial. Follow Kody on Instagram @kodymusicofficial.

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Should You See Ocean’s 8? Our Movie Diva Caroline Cao Reveals Her Thoughts!

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Divas! Meet our newest contributor, movie expert Caroline Cao – with her review of the newest caper in the Ocean’s Eleven franchise!

Ocean’s 8: The Ensemble Deserves a Better Payday. In this all-female reboot and spinoff of the classic caper 2001 Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s 8 feels a bit pedestrian under Gary Ross’ direction and didn’t need the franchise patent to exist on its own. Riddled with plot-holes and tensions, the film overtly pats itself on the back, pretending it has committed something audacious when the heist operations just feel passable, despite some promise of ingenuity.

But worth the admission price is Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, and Rihanna as the gang! Each performer has her steal-stealing moment or quip. Lastly, the surprise eighth-ranger Anne Hathaway, who acquires a priceless – and surprisingly human – motivation for her recruitment in the thievery of a historic diamond necklace.

The casual revel in the femininity of jewelry and sparkling gowns is a refreshing change in a culture of blockbusters overtly reverent of leading masculine heroes. In a telling scene, ringleader Debbie (Bullock) stares into the mirror and gives herself this motivational speech: She’s not doing this for revenge (lies!) or money (lies again!), but she’s doing this to be a role model to little girls who aspire to be thieves. Such anti-heroism is underrated.

While the heist needs better coordination on the director’s part and is drained of close-call tensions, you’ll enjoy the ride with the cast. I just wish the payday felt worthier for its ensemble. But, if you have your own band of fierce divas who work together for the common (and hopefully legal) goal of empowerment, grab your popcorn and evening wear and head on down.

Ocean’s 8 is now playing nationwide.

Caroline Cao is screenwriter, playwright, poet, and film critic studying for her Nonfiction MFA at the New School. She has contributed to Birth Movies Death, Film School Rejects, The Mary Sue, Bitch, and Reverse Shot. Follow her on Twitter @maximinalist and Instagram @amaximinalist.

photo credit: Warner Bros.

 

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Celebrity Page of The Week! Amara La Nerga Makes Compassionate Plea at Cielo Gala – WATCH

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Hello Divas! Your Celebrity Page video of the week, starring our own divalicious EIC Delaina Dixon takes us inside the Cielo Benefit for the Latino Commision on AIDS with special guest Amara La Nergra! She also gives the scoop about the latest Bella magazine beauty cover – WATCH!

Catch Delaina and Celebrity Page every weeknight on Reelz Channel!

photo credit: Amanne Media

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#CocktailsWithMuna! How To Pick Your Perfect Rose For The Summer!

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It’s Rosé season! Divas, it’s time to find some new rosé wines and we decided to help you by attending La Nuit en Rosé, a cruise on a yacht filled with a multitude of rosé vendors.

With over 150 rose wines to sample, this diva wasn’t sure where to start. The event is in its third year and as popular as ever because in addition to rosé, there were artisanal food offerings, DJs, and fun lounges like the Chandon lounge. Best of all were the views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and the cityscapes of New Jersey and New York. Ahead are some of our favorite offerings!

There’s a new trend in rose best exemplified by Mouton Cadet’s Ice Rosé where you put an ice cube in your glass after pouring and it enhances the taste of your rosé.

Remy Pannier’s Rosé D’Anjou was a sparkling welcome from the Anjou district of France’s Loire Valley. With a beautiful color and aroma, this wine is not too sweet, not too dry. We enjoyed Day Owl‘s newest Rosé offering as well.

Aimé Roquesante is a light rose cuvée that’s a good balance of a fruit and a dry finish- great for dinner and light meals.

Angry Orchard decided to get in the rosé game with a hard cider rosé and I am into it. It’s a fun and casual rosé and will be great for summer barbecues.

Last but not least, the Listel Cuvee Pinks were an easy favorite and come in two variations- the grapefruit rosé and the sparkling rose. They were a light and fruity rosé and absolutely perfect for brunch or happy hour with the girls. I can’t choose between the two, so I’ll let you divas decide. Let us know which one you prefer!

All in all, it was a great event and if La Nuit en Rosé docks anywhere near you, get on board and make your own rosé list for summer.

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What To Do This Weekend In NYC – African Dance with PHILADANCO. Pool Parties At The Ravel Hotel. Rethinking Barbie With HULU!

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SEE. The legendary African American-led Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO) has returned to the Big Apple! Under the direction of Founder and Executive/Artistic Director Joan Myers Brown, PHILADANCO is premiering three of its four new works in NYC for its 48th season. Known as a company that champions African-American traditions in dance as well as using the art form to tackle social issues which impact African-Americans, PHILADANCO has curated a program that shines light on the current social climate that affects all people of color. Get your tickets and catch its Friday and weekend performances at the Joyce Theater.

SWIM. It’s gonna be hot in NYC this year – why not spend some time at the pool! New York’s largest rooftop pool, The Profundo Day Club at The Ravel Hotel, kicked off their summer 2018 season with an appearance and DJ set by Chantel Jeffries – who was spotted getting up close and personal with NBA star Kyrie Irving. Guests were treated to an open bar highlighting Profundo Day Club’s signature cocktail and delicious bites courtesy of the hotel’s executive chef Seth Levine. This seven-day rooftop party will feature more celeb hosts with The Profundo Day Club Summer Friday appearances. Open to the public for $50/a day passes that include access as well as a complimentary pool bag with a velour pool towel and other goodies.

WATCH. It’s hot outside so there’s nothing wrong with staying in with the air conditioning blasting. While your cooling off on the couch – tune in for HULU’s engaging documentary Tiny Shoulders, Rethinking Barbie. The 60-year-old toy phenom has gone through quite a few changes in her tiny world, but none so big as the one taken in 2016 when Mattel launched its iconic dolls in new sizes that include Tall, Petite and Curvy. Written, produced and directed by executive team/Diva besties Andrea Nevins and Cristan Crocker, the documentary reveals those who adore Barbie – and her haters. “It was very important to truly show a balanced view. People have very strong feelings about [Barbie]. We wanted people to be represented in her discomfort for her and for people to feel represented in her passion for her, ” the team shared in an exclusive interview. In the end, we think Barbie lives to stand for female empowerment, pride and beauty – now as it can be defined in every sector. Diva gal pal and feminist activist Roxanne Gay is featured in the cast. Catch it on HULU now.

 

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Five Tips On How To Make Yourself Happy – Mind, Body & Soul!

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It’s important to make your happiness a priority. But it’s not always easy to know what you need to do to make this happen. We all tend to get swept up in our everyday lives, and it gets hard to make changes or to prioritize something different. So those changes just get added to the bottom of your to-do list and you’ll find that you’re constantly just forgetting about them. When you DO decide to try and be happier and healthy, you go at it full force because you’re in a rush and you want to see instant results. Instead of letting yourself get stuck in a vicious circle, why not trying working on your health from an entire lifestyle perspective? Here is how to do it.

Physical Health

To be happy, you have to have your physical health. Here, we’re referring to two things. First of all, you have the idea of exercise, because you know that you need to do it.  It’s not only to keep your waistline in shape but your heart too. But it’s not only that, you’ll also want to ensure that you’re staying on top of your medical health too. Make sure that you’re seeing your doctor as regularly as you need to be, and getting the checkups that will keep your health in check.

Nutrition

The body is happy when its nourished the right way. That means you have to make sure that you’re eating well. It’s okay to indulge in your favorite foods every now and again, but ideally you’ll want to stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible. So opt for healthy breakfasts and healthy snacks rather than going all out on bad foods too much of the time. If you can be good 80 percent of the time, then those 20 percent indulges are balanced out. Try a healthy snack bar like 


Recovery

You’re sluggish and depressed when you don’t get enough sleep. You need to make sure that you’re prioritizing sleep and rest as much as you can. If you want to be able to avoid burnout,  allowing your body to rest and relax is going to be crucial. Make sure that you’re sleeping a solid 7 to 9 hours each night, and that you’re not overworking yourself. If you do, cracks will start to show in your health both mentally and physically. Of course, a good night’s sleep starts with a good mattress. Try the NECTAR Sleep Mattresses for your best rest yet.

Mental Wellness

You also need to focus on your mental health. It’s important that you feel calm and centered most of the time to achieve a happy state. If you suffer from stress or anxiety, then long distance healing and other alternative methods could help you. Just make sure that you take action to find wellness as soon as you can.

Happiness

Last but certainly not least, you really need to make sure that you’re working on your levels of happiness. Envisioning your idyllic life is the first step to being happy in it. Is it time for a job change, or time to leave a relationship, move cities or stay away from a certain friend? If it means you’ll be happier, do it.  Do what you have to to find happiness in your life again. Need some guidance? Check out the four books listed above to set you on the right path.

Photo by Eye for Ebony on Unsplash

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YOUR WEEK IN PARIS. Make Your Travel Experience Luxurious!

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The DivaGals just spent an incredible week in Paris for the wedding of our dear pal and love expert Samantha Bessuedo Drucker – her new married name – who wrote our series 90 Days To Find A Husband, yes, you know you want to read this!

The first step of any memorable trip is the actual travel itself. We’ve got a few tips to ensure your experience goes smoothly, so you arrive relaxed and ready to take own your exotic destination.

Come Prepared. There’s nothing worse than rushing to get to your ride. Arrive at the airport early. Have all your travel documentation neatly together and easily accessible (tickets, passports, IDs). Flying first class? Then you’ll most likely have access to your carrier’s lounges where you can enjoy a cocktail (no more than two!) and a bite before your flight! If you have an American Express Platinum Card, you’ll have access to their exclusive lounges in select locations, as well as complimentary enrollment in the Priority Pass program, which gets you into lounges across the globe. If you’re taking a carry on, try the line from Max Mirani. It’s sleek, stylish hard-case luggage that can hold a ton.

Dress Not To Stress. Arrive at the airport smelling and looking your best in a neat clean non-clingy outfit that is comfortable to travel in. Watch out for outfits that are too revealing – they’ve been known to get people kicked off a plane. Remember, class attracts class. Please remember, no one wants to sit next to that person who has poor hygiene or overdoses on fragrance. If it’s a full day of travel bring along a toothbrush and some mints. After a six-plus hour ride, you’ll want to brush your teeth! Try
Mouthwatcher’s Travel Toothbrush which is compact but packs a big brush punch.

Keep It Clean. There’s nothing worse than discovering something unexpected in your seat pocket once you sit down on a plane. So please, throw away your trash and wipe up your spills. Make it easy for the next passenger to enjoy the space that you previously inhabited. We like to travel with a ziplock bag with cleaning wipes to wipe down our surfaces — the seat and tray table — before we buckle up. Have hand sanitizer close by. A space that feels and smells fresh leaves you with the confidence of knowing that it is in fact clean!

Quell The Tea. No one needs to overhear the gossipy details about what’s going on with your squad, family or your job before the plane takes off. If you are speaking out loud and sharing dish, remember you don’t know who is overhearing that salacious conversation. People have lost jobs, opportunities and relationships due to conversations that they “overheard” in public places. If you want to spill some tea wait until you can make a call once you’ve landed, or better yet, when you are face-to-face.

Leave The Drama At The Gate. We’ve all seen less than human attitudes in flight. Now is the time to behave well and act like the best version of yourself. Control your emotions, even in tense situations. Whatever drama you came from doesn’t have to follow you unless you want to create more of it. There are hundreds of people traveling to the same destination as you and hundreds of different tragedies and dramas that they too are working through. Sometimes it’s all about you but today lets make it about a safe and good travel experience for everyone.

Show Some Respect. Be patient and understanding of the staff who are employed to serve you and over a thousand other people on a daily basis. Don’t treat service staff as if they are less than human or equal. Be kind to everyone — you never know who you will meet on your path up or on your way down when you really need some kindness and mercy. Be generous with tips, compliments and smiles. Karma will repay you handsomely.

Eat Right. Don’t make it an all-day buffet of bad food choices. Travel with an empty bottle through security and then fill it with water to stay hydrated in flight and keep your complexion looking dewy. Pack apples and nuts or seeds. They provide protein and fiber. You will arrive at your destination without the gross feeling of a day spent consuming pricey fast food and high-calorie snacks loaded with grease, chemicals and sugar. Plus, you will save money and you can sit down and enjoy a meal without binge eating guilt.

Stretch It! Long flights can wreak havoc on your body. Take a short walk up and down the aisle every few hours and allow your body to stretch. Your joints will thank you. If you have a short layover get near a window and get some much needed natural light and fresh air. This is also a great time to do a little meditation or prayer. Take a few minutes to quiet your thoughts and practice gratitude.

#NoSpaceOut. Don’t spend the entire trip staring at a screen. Bring along a book to catch up on your reading. Take a notebook with you and use the quiet time to journal. We spend so much time speaking and listening that sometimes you can become deficient in hearing your own thoughts and putting words to something you are going through. A long flight is the perfect time to connect with your own thoughts.

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FIT SUMMER. Run Your Butt Off With On Your Mark: W New York – Downtown Run Club

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Hi Divas! As you know I’m a fitness fiend. But doing the same routine day after day, year after year gets boring. This summer, I’m on a mission to try new forms of exercise to challenge my mind as well as my physique. And if I lose a few pounds in the process, well that’s just icing on the protein shake! First up, a new weekly run hosted by W New York Downtown.

If I’m going to run I want to do it outside, so joining this new weekly fitness, On Your Mark: W New York – Downtown Run Club, in its partnership with Mile High Run Club seemed ideal. I was told that each session will “start with a 4 min dynamic warm-up followed by a 30 – 40 min run, finishing with 10 – 15 min of resistance training & core work,” which I figured I could handle. And then I saw the other participants. These are hard-core runners – indeed we went in a circle with the instructor and shared “Why We Run.” I explained it allowed me to do my first 5-K with my little sister (yes, shameless family plug here).

Still, I figured I could handle it. I’d just run at my own pace, which is exactly what I did once the pack tore off at what could only be a 6-plus MPH speed. I trotted along just fast enough to catch them as they did their warmup near the Hudson River. Our instructor then stated we’d be running a half-mile or so to the first pier off  our park route – and off they went. My PR guide stayed close to my pace so I could figure out where finally wound up. And indeed, with the water as my backdrop, it was a lovely run.

Once at the destination, the instructor partnered up runners: one would do a lap around the pier while the other did a lunge and pushup series. Due to a nagging injury, I partnered with myself to run in place (100 steps) plus my lunge/pushups. The instructor made sure to come over to me to give me some “you go girl” encouragement even if I wasn’t hitting the laps.

Then it was back to the start. I’ll admit, I took a little shortcut through the park to try catch up with the group. Once back at the hotel, I looked at my Endomondo – we had actually put in 3 miles over the course of the entire run!

This workout isn’t for everyone – you really need to have a good base of running beneath you to keep up with the pack. But if you have been running and want that extra push of camaraderie and competition, this is the perfect way to spend a Thursday evening. The best part? Heading upstairs afterward to the hotel’s fifth Floor Living Room for the No Shower Happy Hour, which boasts a live DJ and a specialty mocktail – ours had watermelon and coconut, yum! – and cocktail menu to discuss what personal run record you’ll be breaking next.

Strap on your running sneakers and join the On Your Mark Run Club at W New York Downtown (8 Albany St.), every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $25 or $80 for a month.

 

 

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What to Do In NYC Today: See The Incredibles 2

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Hello Divas! If you didn’t contribute to the whopping $180 million The Incredibles 2 made over its opening weekend, the largest ever for an animated feature – we say take you fistful of cash and go check it out tonight! Fire crackling with energy, returning director Brad Bird dishes plenty of gumption in this CGI romp. The Incredibles 2 does not hang onto the coattails of audience nostalgia for its 2004 predecessor, as Marvel and Disney properties often do – we’re talking about you Solo!

Clearing throat for my best recap voice: Previously, on the 2004 Pixar The Incredibles, the superpowered Parr family were blithely confronting a new supervillain. However, the sequel introduces this obstruction: illegal superheroism. When an opportunity to revive the golden age of superheroes pops up in the form of an affluent advocate played by Bob Odenkirk, the Parr matriarch Helen (Holly Hunter) – a.k.a Elastigirl – who is still stretchy cool as ever with her own celeb fan base  –  is selected to become an advocate for supers in the explosive on-field danger. Meanwhile, her beleaguered husband Bob (Craig T. Nelson) holds the fort down at home to care for the three children, Violet (Sarah Vowell), Dash (Huck Milner) and baby Jack-Jack. Samuel L. Jackson is back as Lucius Best a.k.a Frozone as well.

On paper, plenty of the elements and some of its Pixar trademarks may appear cliché. But even the most classic of Pixar like WALL-E, Finding Nemo or Coco didn’t sweat its rudiments and focused on the fun. Incredibles 2 is no exception.

A potent sign of the quality of the film: Brad Bird’s dialogue would be at home in speech bubbles fresh from comic pages. It tosses out a few digs at common superhero tropes in reference to DC grimy reboots (Elastigirl laments her new rebranded costume is too “dark and angsty”), but the film locks itself in its present charm, paying tribute to tropes without succumbing to them. As the family members’ arcs remain grounded in familial simplicity: Mr. Parr seeks to be a competent stay-at-home dad, Violet confronts teenage troubles, and Dash needs to comprehend math. Bird resourcefully mimes fun and idiosyncrasies in his archetypes.

You may be there for the popcorn action mixing and mingling with humor, but you’re staying for the family heart.

The Incredibles 2 is now playing city-wide.

photo credit: Pixar

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YOUR WEEK IN PARIS. Things You’d Never Think To Bring To Your Hotel (But You Should!)

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The DivaGals just spent an incredible week in Paris for the wedding of our dear pal and love expert Samantha Bessuedo Drucker – her new married name – who wrote our series 90 Days To Find A Husband, read it!

We learned a few things while spending time in the city of love – mainly, all the things you should pack to make this gorgeous foreign country feel a little more like home. Read on – and tune in all this week for our coverage of this amazing and historic city!

Our first hotel in Paris was the Ibis Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport Hotel. If you’ve never been to Paris, know that when the room states it can only host two people, they mean it! Our room was super tiny with two twin-sized beds pushed together. But it was clean and efficient, and the hotel has a nice little restaurant/bar on site. We did take note that the beds were only dressed with a fitted sheet and comforter (no flat sheet!), so if you need one, you better bring it.

Then it was time for our big stay at Aparthotel Adagio Paris Centre Tour Eiffel. Located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, the hotel (pictured up top) offers apartment-like studios and one and two-bedroom spaces complete with a living room, a fully-functional kitchen with a mini-fridge, stove, microwave and dishwasher. This will easily be some of the biggest accommodations that you’ll find in Paris, which was great for me and my fellow Diva in tow, and our room offered incredible views of the Eiffel Tower. Those are the positives.

The building is a high-rise, which means missing out on that rustic Paris city charm found in hotels built into the city’s historic buildings. And then there’s the air-conditioning – or lack thereof. Paris is an “open the window and let the air in” kind of town,  which can’t be done at the Adagio. And the air conditioner does not cut it. Keep it in mind if you’re planning to go during the warmer months. We’ll admit, at times, the lack of air was unbearable – we moved rooms after the first night in hopes of finding relief.

With that in mind – here are some of the things we say pack in your suitcase to make the trip feel more like home.

3M Hooks. There’s never enough hooks to hang your washcloth/loofah/jewelry. So bring some 3M hooks. You can stick them on the wall to create your own convenience hanging spots and easily remove them when you leave.

Extension Cord. We’re sure you packed your adapter for international use. Now pack an extension cord with at least 3 prongs. You’ll be able to charge a few items at once and have a little more wiggle room on using your phone while it’s charging.

Washcloths. Our hotels in Paris didn’t offer washcloths and when you’ve got a face full of makeup, you’ll want to wash it off. Take one or two in a dark color so you can get in that good scrub every night.

Firm Fruit. Pack some firm fruit (apples, pears, etc.) in your luggage that will survive to the other side of your trip. They’ll be great for snacks and salads, and to brighten up a room.

Atomizer/Candle. Speaking of ambiance, have a fragrant spray like Fabreeze or a candle with you to refresh the scent of your room and make it homier. Just be cautious if you do bring a candle and make sure to put it out before you head out sightseeing or go to sleep.

Paper Towels. If you stay in an aparthotel, you may want to bring a roll of paper towels. They serve as napkins and cleaning wipes throughout your trip.

Disinfectant Wipes. Of course, you should pack travel size cleaning wipes to give your whole space a good wipe down once you arrive to ensure its cleanliness.

Travel Blanket. The couch in our Aparthotel wasn’t in the best condition – make your travel blanket do double duty to cover up the dingy spots, and make it more appealing to sit on. Just remember which side is down so you can reverse it once back on the plane!

Poo-pourri. Traveling with pals? This one is obvious.

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What To Do In NYC Today: Join Inspired Empire Live And Improve Your Life Now

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Most of us have spent our lives looking outward – to parents, teachers, friends, society – – for guidance, acceptance and validation. Over time, this separates us further and further from our innate desires and creates a “divide” inside…a divide between what we do and feel in our lives…and what we WANT to do and feel.

Do you want to live a life expected of you rather than a life you truly desire? Join “Inspired Empire Live” and the launch of this new online community with the common goal of helping others live their best lives yet,  from 8 to 9 p.m. EST.

Simply add your email address @ INSPIREDEMPIRE.COM to access this highly anticipated LIVE LAUNCH EVENT & STREAMING, and join millions of viewers unlock the key to rediscover how great life is when thoughts and actions are aligned with desires, rather than expectations and obligations!

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DROP THE MIC! He Ain’t Better Star Nick Hissom Gives Women A Reason To Choose!

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A music hottie is arousing the fans and dancing on the top charts. And he’s there to stay. Swoon.

“He Ain’t Better” is the latest work of #WBWD Nick Hissom, AKA, Hizzy. A British singer and songwriter, he has prevailed in the USA charts. “He Ain’t Better” premiered in summer 2017 and garnered a whopping 1 million streams on Spotify in its first month. Woo-wee!

Confession time: I’m coming in new and blind to this brand of music. You might accuse me of living in a cave, though I have my own mind on how to process it. I can respect its commercialist intents, the wish-fulfillment of a man promising he can give me something better. And while it’s not to my personal preference, I can’t deny that he’s on the mark of the appeal. The subject of the song assures woman that “he’ll be ready to fall / when the time is right” because he truly respects a woman’s agency to choose him. He makes a pitch that he will treat her right, better than the dude she’s currently hooked up with (thus the refrain of “He ain’t better than me”), but it’s all up to her to come to his open arms.

His music video has the hypnotic quality in any desirable music video. Maneuvering his well-pecked body, Nick gazes wistfully at his imagined lover, dancing close to her, insisting he would be there for her should she choose him.

It’s obvious Nick isn’t dancing off top charts anytime soon. He’s got an alluring style and a likable swagger. He earned his iHeart Radio’s Emerging Artist of the Week. His rise to fame involves an intriguing origin story, which started with songwriting in the college dorm. Like any millennial, Nick has confronted rejection after rejection but was able to reap the rewards of his ladder climb in the music industry. Impressively, Nick is his own boss man, who owns his own label, Massive –  distributed by RED Distribution and Sony Music  – at only 25 years old. Wow. This dude writes his own rules and his music inspires young millennials.

Along with viral rapper Zoey Dollaz, Nick is currently promoting the remix of “He Ain’t Better.” It debuts July 11 and airs all over radio airwaves worldwide July 31. Stay tuned for it.

Hizzy’s gorgeous face will surface on Billboard Magazine and on billboards in Time Square featuring clips of the new “He Ain’t Better” between July 11 and July 31. #HEAINTBETTER.

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What To Do In NYC Today: NYC Comedy Stand-Up Review: Causal Town Time!

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Hey New Yorkers, come join us in the basement of an East Village bar! It’s not as creepy as it sounds – I swear!

Down in the basement of the Sing Sing Ave A, below the karaoke bar is Casual Town, a weekly stand-up show. The witticisms of Casual Town cover the little quirky intimacies of everyday life, whether it’s the pursuit of getting laid by a good man, surviving awkward dinners with traditionalist parents, or hunting for that right therapist.

The night of June 14 had quite the intersectional line-up of funnies. The queue consisted of penetrative episodes to frank discussions about the quirks of confronting mental illness. Those who survived relationships, be prepared to nod your head and mutter, “I relate,” or “I feel personally attacked for this.”

So who you gonna see while you’re there? Here’s a sampling:

Clare O’ Kane (Viceland) – A proud loudmouth feminist who divulges backstory about her grandmother. Points for her running gag of addressing Planned Parenthood as “PP.”

Carly Ann Filbin (UCB) – Her tale reminds all the ladies, practice your safe sex. Also, she fears if she were to have a baby, it will come out as an omelet, which is equally part gross and appetizing.

Josh Johnson (Daily Show) – Spews out pointed observations on the nature of mugshots and the labor of empathy. Makes a priceless Batman impression when quoting his girlfriend’s snores

Sonia Denis (Comedy Central) – Of course, we need our dose of #BlackGirlMagic, and Sonia is a fresh closing act, chatting about black womanhood (‘Don’t make me defend white women!”), along with anxieties and trying to find that right therapist.

Causal Town serves up chuckles every Thursday night. It’s produced by Jamie Rubinovitch and hosted by Albert Kirchner, Jane Harrison and Evan Morrison.

So catch a comedy show in a private karaoke room located on 81 Avenue A. Admission is $5.

Caroline Cao is screenwriter, playwright, poet, and film critic studying for her Nonfiction MFA at the New School. She has contributed to Birth Movies DeathFilm School RejectsThe Mary Sue, Bitch, and Reverse Shot. Follow her on Twitter @maximinalist and Instagram @amaximinalist.

Check out her blog

photo credit: Twitter

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YOUR WEEK IN PARIS. What I Wore For The Week (Calvin! Amazon! CAT Footwear! The Spa Dress!)

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The DivaGals just spent an incredible week in Paris for the wedding of our dear pal and love expert Samantha Bessuedo Drucker – her new married name – who wrote our series 90 Days To Find A Husband, read it!

Of course, we had to have some incredible outfits. So, without further adieu, are some of TV DivaGal’s favorite looks from Paris!

For Samantha’s “Welcome to Paris” cocktail hour at Le Hotel Cinq Codet, I wore a ruched Calvin Klein dress with Coach heels. C’est tres jolie!

Feeling vintage? This lace and feathered vintage dress got some sparkle from a gold purse and Louboutin heels, which I wore for Samantha’s Civil Ceremony at City Hall. Add your own shine with this gold round clutch.

A  rainy day near the Panthéon needs an umbrella – and a dose of color! My jumpsuit is from SheIn.com, the tote is from Zara (purchased in Paris!) and the funky leather shoes are from Pikolinos.

Walking all day long? I made sure to pack my CAT Footwear. I’m wearing the Verse shoe in Cherry Blossom to hit nearly every arrondissement in Paris.

A wedding on the Seine calls for a gorgeous evening gown! This electric blue stunner comes from Amazon. Quick Tip: Have it tailored like I did so it fits perfectly!

I don’t travel anywhere without my Spa Dress! It’s perfect for getting ready, hitting the beach and of course, lounging in a window with Eiffel! Get yours STAT at thespadress.com.

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YOUR WEEK IN PARIS – Get An American Breakfast – WATCH

When Is Too Much Sex …. Too Much? Caroline Cao Reviews The New Film Unlovable!

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Sex can be appetizing, though in the case of a young 20-something woman, it is a tiresome pursuit of love – being loved for that matter.

In Unlovable, Rooftop Films has dishes out an endearing oddity about a taboo matter: A young woman’s sex and love addiction. In the starry night breeze of the William Vale Rooftop, Unlovable met a warm reception of applause.

Screenwriter Charlene deGuzman stars as her fictional alter-ego Joy, woman navigating the sludge of her relationship and her sex and love addiction. Her sexual pursuits led to a breakup and eviction, so she ends up joining a 12-step support group led by Maddie (Melissa Leo). Lodged her sponsor’s guest room, she forms a friendship with the shut-in brother of her 12-step meeting sponsor (John Hawkes), a connection that perhaps fit the definition of a “platonic comedy.” Through guitar strums and drum banging, they make music together, not necessary to impress the world but to find themselves.

At times, I worried it traversed into tasteless territory, but the film keeps low-key throughout, even in its more off-kilter moments. Bursting with zingers within the honesty, Unlovable is the opposite of its title. The chords are right.

Post-screening, deGuzman and Hawkes played the film’s music live, as if to let us know, yeah, their talent and camaraderie are not an onscreen fabrication.

Unlovable is a quirky piece indie, a vintage Duplass Brothers-produced project, directed by Suzi Yoonessi, who doesn’t shy away from the earnestness of womanhood and sexuality.

photo credit: Courtesy SXSW

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