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Heard on the Street: John Legend Explains Original Song ‘In America’

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” ‘In America’ was born around the same time I was working on my most recent album Darkness and Light. It’s a song I was writing while thinking about the duality of America, where it’s known to be this place of freedom, equality and where anyone can make it. The song points out the tension between the promise of America, the ideals of America, and sometimes us not living up to those ideals in practice. ‘In America’ was perfect song for Underground, a series I’m incredibly proud to be a part of, and one that does a beautiful job of portraying a challenging time in our nation’s history while reminding us that change is possible.”

— John Legend explains the meaning of the song “In America,” which he and Dave Tozer wrote for WGN America’s Underground. “In America” was heard exclusively during the season two premiere of the hit show on March 8th. However, the song is available beginning today for streaming and download. In addition to serving as executive producer, alongside his producing partners Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius at Get Lifted Film Co., Legend will also guest star as renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass in the episode airing Wednesday, April 5th. But here’s a sneak peek of him as Douglass now. Listen to “In America” below.


Shelly Sumpter Gillyard Is Nickelodeon’s New Executive VP, Talent, Music, and Events

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Nickelodeon Group has promoted Shelly Sumpter Gillyard from senior VP of talent to executive vice president, talent, music, and events.

According to Variety:

In her new role, Sumpter Gillyard will oversee talent relations across all Nickelodeon brands for live TV events, music, and live-action programming, inclusive of casting for live-action and animation properties.

She will be based in Nick’s Burbank office and will continue to report to Nickelodeon Group president Cyma Zarghami.

During her 19-year tenure with Nick, she’s brought kids-favorite celebrities like Blake Shelton, Justin Timberlake, Kobe Bryant, Nick Jonas, Will Smith, Dwayne Johnson, and Mark Wahlberg into much of the studio’s programming and tentpole events, such as “The Kids’ Choice Awards” and “Kids’ Choice Sports.” She also oversees selection and curation of talent for the studio’s annual pro-social-themed concert event, “Nickelodeon HALO Awards,” which honors teens who make a difference in their communities. The 2016 event featured Nick Cannon as host and performances by Jason Derulo, Hailee Steinfeld, Zedd, Alessia Cara, and Daya.

Sumpter Gillyard has also played a key role in developing talent for such current and new live-action Nickelodeon series as Henry Danger, Game Shakers, The Thundermans, and Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn.

9 Questions with Chef Lawrence Page of ‘Hustle & Soul’

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Chef Lawrence Page

Hustle & Soul is the latest series to join the WE tv reality show roster. It focuses on Chef Lawrence Page and his ragtag group of servers, managers, and bartender as he attempts to elevate the famed Pink Tea Cup soul food restaurant to Michelin-Star status.

Pink Tea Cup was established in 1954, and was initially located in the West Village. Many celebrities and notable people have counted it as a favorite in the past. The restaurant was slated to close as a result of financial hardship, but Page resurrected it and moved it to Brooklyn. During the premiere event in New York City, Page revealed that he was homeless for a time after purchasing the Pink Tea Cup. That’s how dedicated he is.

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Clockwise from left: Ana Lavender, Thandi Stewart, Sana Akibu & Candice Roach

After watching the premiere episode, it’s obvious a Michelin Star is quite the lofty goal for the eatery. The main problem is the dissension between his staff. There are two cliques. Ana Lavender, Page’s child’s mother and general manager, has formed an alliance of sorts with Thandi Stewart, the floor manager. Their target is bartender Candice Roach, who mainly eats fried chicken behind the bar while gossiping about Page’s clandestine romantic intentions towards her with Sana Akibu, who is supposedly the hostess of the restaurant, but there haven’t been any scenes of her working in two episodes. The one bright spot among the staff is identical twin servers Dominic and Stefen D’Angelica, who often provide much-needed comic relief.

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Dominic & Stefen D’Angelica

The other issue with securing that Michelin Star is the unprofessionalism. Stewart and Roach fought in the restaurant during the first episode, and arguments in front of customers aren’t rare. In fact, the women of the Pink Tea Cup toss classist insults like “ghetto” and “hood rat” at each other like hair weave over their shoulders. All of this has proven to be “good reality TV,” but likely won’t elevate the reputation of the Pink Tea Cup.

After viewing the first and second episode, which airs tonight on WE tv at 10 p.m., I sent Chef Lawrence Page questions about how he plans to secure a Michelin Star for the Pink Tea Cup, how the drama will affect the restaurant’s reputation, how he came to hire three women who are in love with him, and more.

UPTOWN: How did you discover your love of cooking soul food?
Lawrence Page: Growing up in a southern household, I watched my mother cook full meals without any of the fancy tools that I saw chefs using, and that’s when I fell in love. Everything was cooked with her heart and that’s what I carry with me to this day.

U: Describe your soul food style.
LP: My soul food style is a bit unconventional. I like to take new and fresh ingredients that you would typically find in other cuisines from around the world and incorporate them into traditional southern dishes. This allows me to give a fresh new outlook on a staple like grandma’s fried chicken.

U: Why do you think soul food is having a “culinary moment” now?
LP: I don’t believe it is, and it never has in the last 50 years. I’m giving it its moment, and I’m going to keep working at it until culinary institutes are teaching [the art of soul food] around the world.

U: What was your involvement in The Pink Tea Cup when it was in the West Village? Full disclosure: I ate there twice and the experiences left a bad taste in my mouth, even though the food was tasty.
LP: I grew up knowing the Pink Teacup as a place where celebrities could hang out and eat, so when I saw that it was closing its doors after over 40 years, I didn’t feel comfortable with letting such an institution go.

U: It seems your staff serves up more drama than food. Are you worried that the restaurant will become more known for unprofessionalism than an awesome meal?
LP: I’m worried, I’d be crazy to say that I wasn’t! But I do understand the passion and hunger for success that my staff has, so hopefully we can come together and find a way to channel that passion into hard work!

U: Please explain your “cash only” philosophy. It seems counterproductive in this digital age in which most millennials don’t carry cash. Plus, it could limit the amount patrons are prepared to order.
LP: We’ve been cash only since 1954. Most restaurants are becoming cash only because it’s a lot easier on everyone financially. We stay away from debt. You can’t spend what you don’t have! Gone are the days of restaurants pulling 200k credit lines to pay for a refrigerator, when they’re not even breaking even, especially with banks charging astronomical processing fees on swipe transactions.

U: What’s the one dish a newcomer to the Pink Tea Cup should try and why?
LP: For brunch, I would suggest that everyone try the Holy Trinity Shrimp and Grits. And for dinner, for sure, the classic southern staple of buttermilk fried chicken with six-cheese baked mac and cheese and collard greens.

U: How did you manage to hire three women who are in love with you?
LP: It wasn’t my intention, but when you have that “thing” that women recognize love comes naturally.

U: What steps are you taking towards securing that Michelin Star?
LP: I’m making sure that I keep up with consistency, cleanliness, culture, atmosphere, and of course the taste!

Hustle & Soul airs Thursdays on WE tv at 10 p.m.

RELATED: NYC: WE tv’s ‘Hustle & Soul’ Premiere

[Images: WE tv]

Jack Daniel’s & K. Michelle Team Up for New Southern Peach Flavor

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What do Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails and K. Michelle have in common? Their Tennessee roots, southern values, and now a new malt beverage flavor.

K. Michelle teamed up with Jack Daniel’s to create the newest Country Cocktails flavor — Southern Peach.

“Jack Daniel’s is a brand with rich history. Also being from Tennessee, I’ve always appreciated how JD falls in line with my southern values,” said K. Michelle in a press release. “This collaboration with Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails is a celebration of all those values, and I’m excited to share that with my fans.”

The chart-topping R&B singer collaborated with the liquor brand to craft Southern Peach from beginning to end. She was even the driving force behind the custom gold crown cap, which is exclusive to the Southern Peach flavor.

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Jack Daniel’s will roll out Southern Peach in the Southeast — Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Tennessee — beginning in April. The flavor will be available for purchase nationally early in the summer just in time for BBQ and cookouts.

Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails premium malt beverages are also available in Jack Apple, Black Jack Cola, Cherry Limeade, Berry Punch, Downhome Punch, Lynchburg Lemonade, and Watermelon Punch.

Weekday Distraction: Faith Evans Releases ‘Ten Wife Commandments’

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Faith Evans just released a brand new track, “Ten Wife Commandments,” off of her highly-anticipated duets album The King & I. The album is slated to be released on May 19, 20 years after the tragic death of her husband and iconic rapper, The Notorious B.I.G., and includes rare and unreleased vocals by the legendary rapper.

‘Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu’ Opens in Cincinnati

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Today, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (50 East Freedom Way) in Cincinnati opened the exhibit Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu.

The exhibit will take visitors on a visual journey with the photography of Matthew Willman as their guide through former South African President Nelson Mandela‘s life and legacy.

According to the Freedom Center, “From humble beginnings to a life dedicated to resistance, Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu tells the story of a young South African boy who became a man prepared to die in the name of equality, justice, and freedom. This exhibition provides a platform for a sharing of values so richly present in Mandela’s life to understand the role forgiveness, leadership, truth, and sacrifice play in overcoming the challenges we face in society today.”

The Nelson Mandela Foundation commissioned Willman to capture the last 10 years of his life. The photographer turned his lens on South African regions important in the life of Mandela: Mvezo Village, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Robben Island.

Mandela: The Journey to Ubuntu also features artifacts from Mandela’s life that the Nelson Mandela Foundation loaned to the Freedom Center.

“Journey to Ubuntu” is an apt way to describe the legacy of Mandela because Ubuntu loosely translates to “I am because we are,” and Mandela was a humanitarian above all else.

Visitors will have until Aug. 20th to get an up close and personal look at the man who defied an entire racist government to bring equality to South Africa. Admission is $5 with general admission, and the exhibit is located in the Skirball Gallery, which is located on the third floor of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

RELATED: Surprise, This Is Cincinnati!

[Image: National Underground Railroad Freedom Center]

Cheers to National Cocktail Day!

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Not only is today “FriYay,” but it’s also National Cocktail Day! To help you celebrate and wind down from the work week, we’ve culled together cocktail recipes featuring whiskey, rum, bourbon, and tequila. Cheers!

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HAVANA CLUB Rum Mule

Ingredients:

  • 1 part HAVANA CLUB Añejo Clásico
  • 2 parts chilled ginger beer
  • 2 lime wedges
  • 2 dashes aromatic bitters
  • mint sprig or seasonal berry for garnish

Method: Fill a copper mug with ice and squeeze in lime wedges. Pour in HAVANA CLUB Añejo Clásico rum and ginger beer. Complete by adding a dash of bitters and stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig and a seasonal berry.

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La Fuente
Created by Mixologist Erin Ashford

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 oz Tequila Don Julio 70
  • 1/2 oz Aperol
  • 3/4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 tsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp simple syrup
  • 2 drops chili lime bitters
  • sparkling mineral water to top
  • pinch of salt
  • grapefruit peel for garnish
  • rosette skewer for garnish
  • Ideal serving glass: Collins Glass

Method: Combine Tequila Don Julio 70, Aperol, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and chili lime bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain contents into a Collins glass over ice. Top with sparkling mineral water and pinch of salt. Garnish with grapefruit peel and rosette skewer.

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Garden Party
Created by Mixologist Erin Ashford

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 oz Tequila Don Julio Reposado
  • 1/2 oz orange liqueur
  • 1/4 oz honey syrup
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • lime wheel for garnish
  • Ideal serving glass: Double Old Fashioned Glass

Method: Combine Tequila Don Julio Reposado, orange liqueur, honey syrup, fresh lemon juice and Angostura bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain contents into a double old fashioned glass with fresh ice. Garnish with lime wheel.

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Ode to Atole
Created by Mixologist Erin Ashford

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 oz Tequila Don Julio Añejo
  • 1 tsp sweet vermouth
  • 1 tsp turbinado sugar
  • 1 dash Bittermen’s mole bitters
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • orange peel for garnish
  • Ideal glass for serving: Double Old Fashioned Glass

Method: Combine Tequila Don Julio Añejo, sweet vermouth, turbinado sugar, and Bittermen’s mole bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain contents into a double old fashioned glass over fresh ice. Garnish with orange peel.

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Laphroaig Best of Both
Created by top Chicago mixologist Benjamin Schiller

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 parts Laphroaig Select
  • 1/2 part Canadian Club 100% Rye Whisky
  • 1/2 part maple syrup
  • 2-3 dashes orange bitters
  • 1-2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Method: Combine all liquid ingredients into a mixing glass. Add ice and stir. Strain the cocktail into an Old Fashioned glass with 1 large piece of ice. Garnish with an orange peel swath studded with toasted cloves and a wooden cocktail skewer with alternating dried cranberries and maraschino cherries.

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Cruzan Mango Sunset

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 parts Cruzan Single Barrel Rum
  • 3/4 part Cruzan Mango Rum
  • 1 1/2 parts fresh lemon sour
  • 1/2 part mango puree
  • 1/2 part pomegranate juice
  • lime wheel
  • pomegranate seeds

Method: Shake all ingredients, except the pomegranate juice, with ice until well blended. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Slowly pour pomegranate juice into the center of the cocktail so that it settles to the bottom. Garnish with a lime wheel and pomegranate seeds.

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Knob Creek Roasted Old Fashioned
Created by Celebrity Chef Michael Symon

Ingredients:

  • 2 parts Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon
  • 1 part vanilla-infused sweet vermouth*
  • 4 dashes of Angostura Bitters
  • 2 dashes of orange bitters
  • coffee bean

Method: Add Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon, vanilla-infused sweet vermouth, Angostura Bitters and orange bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice. Stir mixture and strain into a Coupe glass. Finish with freshly grated coffee bean as garnish.

*Vanilla-Infused Sweet Vermouth Ingredients:

  • fresh vanilla bean
  • 1 750ml bottle of sweet vermouth

Method: Drop fresh vanilla bean into a bottle of Sweet Vermouth. Set aside and let sit 24 hours.

Quick Pics: Selena Gomez & Coach ‘Step Up’ for LA Students

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In support of The Coach Foundation and Coach’s national charity partner, Step Up, Selena Gomez surprised unsuspecting students at two Los Angeles high schools by making a special appearance.

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Margaret Coady, Selena Gomez, Victor Luis & Jenni Luke

Gomez, who is the new face of the iconic luxury brand, joined Coach CEO Victor Luis to help raise awareness for Step Up, which aims to empower young women from under-resourced communities.

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She wasn’t there to look pretty and show off her Coach duds, however. At each of the schools, Gomez and Step Up CEO Jenni Luke led “the students in a curriculum lesson designed to promote and celebrate the global girl community,” according to press materials.

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And the style icon looked fabulous, of course, while doing so. She wore the Camo Rose Varsity Jacket with Raglan Sleeve and the Reversible Satin Jacket.

[Images: Donato Sardella for Getty Images]


#RHOP’s Gizelle Bryant: ‘If You Said It, You Gotta Own It’

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[Image: Bravo]

Gizelle Bryant hasn’t minced words from the moment she appeared on our television screens in 2016 as one of six cast members of The Real Housewives of Potomac, but even though she’s opinionated, she has no problem owning what she says and apologizing if necessary.

Her outspokenness during the off-season is what gets the drama rolling at the start of season two, which premieres Sunday, April 2nd. Without giving too much away, Gizelle and Charrisse Jackson Jordan are on the outs as a result of something Gizelle said on Watch What Happens Live. However, Gizelle says she was only retaliating for Charrisse indirectly calling her a “whore” during the season one reunion and refusing to own up to it.

Even though drama leads the storytelling on RHOP and we as fans eat it up, there’s much more going on in Gizelle’s life. The socialite is a mom of three daughters — 12-year-old Grace and 10-year-old twins Angel and Adore. She’s also an entrepreneur gearing up to release her mineral makeup line EveryHue Beauty.

I caught up with Gizelle to discuss the newness in her life, the conflict with Charrisse, which Housewives have longevity (considering one of the original Potomac ladies has already quit the show), what “asset” she’s looking for in a mate, and more.

UPTOWN: Since season one wrapped, what have you been up to?
Gizelle Bryant: I have been working diligently on my makeup line, EveryHue Beauty. So that is going to launch probably in the next three to four weeks.

U: If I remember correctly, the makeup line was attempting to include a wider range of colors.
GB: Absolutely, it’s for women of color but we’re not excluding anyone. We’ll have a very light color that the average white woman would match her all the way to our darker sister. So it’s a great range and we’re worked really hard to match skin tones perfectly.

U: Will EveryHue Beauty be available online and in stores also?
GB: We’re going to start online so we’ll be direct to consumer, which we’re excited about because I really want to know exactly who’s buying and what the hottest colors are. So I really want to control it a little bit in the beginning. But we are in talks with a couple of department stores. So I’m excited that we haven’t even launched yet and they’re willing to talk to us.

U: Will it be a full range of makeup in addition to foundation? Can we expect eyeshadows, lipsticks, etc. also?
GB: Yes, we’re starting with a tinted moisturizer and we’re going to follow up with this tinted highlighter, which I love. Highlighters are like my new favorite go-to; I love them! Then, we’ll have brushes and blenders for the face, and then we’ll move to lip glosses and traditional eyeshadows, blush, and that whole spectrum.

U: Being a mom of three daughters, what does it mean for them to see you starting your own business, even though you’re on a reality show also?
GB: It means everything actually. You know, my oldest is 12 and I have twins who are 10. And they’re at the age that they really, really look up to me — like their end all, be all role model. And I show them what I’m doing as it relates to business and seeing it from beginning to end. They were with me when I was matching colors. They’ve been with me through each process, so they’re as excited about it as I am. They want to be the ones that get to name the colors, the lipsticks, name the blushes. Of course, they want them to be named after them.

As far as me being on a reality show, that’s always a little tricky when it comes to kids because they might hear maybe negative things about their mom or just social media is a beast to deal with. But they’ve always told me, “Mommy, we just want you to have fun on your show. You’re our mom.” They’re very in tune to separate me as mommy from the show.

Instagram Photo

U: I saw the first episode of season two, and I know you and Charrisse have some turmoil or conflict. Without giving away too much, do you two resolve the issue as the season goes on? Or does she even admit her wrongdoing? I agree what she said during the reunion was harsh, even though it was an inadvertent dig.
GB: Charrisse and I have been friends for awhile and I want us to remain friends forever. I really want her to be someone who is always in my life. So we’re working on it, I will say that. We’re working on it.

U: Now dating is a big part of your story on the show. And you mentioned being a little attracted to Teon the dance instructor on the show. Did anything ever come of that?
GB: Uh, no, actually I mentioned him being attractive and possibly hitting on Ashley [Darby]. But for me? No.

U: I’ve been a fan of the Housewives franchise for a long time, and sometimes there’s a cast member who sets herself up as the villain of the show. Do you think Potomac has a definitive villain, or are you all reacting how you would naturally react?
GB: I think we’re very authentic to who we are. A villain? I don’t want to give anybody that title, but I will say we’re definitely opinionated and some hold back more than others. I don’t necessarily hold back. I don’t think Ashley holds back. I don’t think Karen [Huger] holds back. That can cause others to feel like we’re being mean girls, but we’re just being honest.

U: Is there any point this season in which you feel like you were being misunderstood and wish you had a do-over?
GB: Yes. But I guess I can’t really talk about it because it was later on when we were filming. But there were times when, you know, you’re just tired and you’ve had a long day, and true to form with anyone, things can come out your mouth that you want to take back. But you gotta own it. If you said it, you gotta own it. So I think I had several of those.

U: Speaking of owning it, you mentioned certain male anatomy being too long or too short during the season premiere. What for you is too long or too short?
GB: (laughs) Everyone, I think, likes a long package when they are dating, but you never know what you are going to get — this is girl talk — you never know what you’re going to get. But at the end of the day, does it really matter? No. I mean, if you find a wonderful guy, hopefully the package is appropriate.

U: Is there anything you’re really excited for the audience to see this season? Do you guys go on a girls’ trip as is pretty standard for the Housewives franchise?
GB: Mmhmm, we do go on a trip. I can say I’m super excited about my mom. My mom was able to film with me this season. We didn’t see her season one, so I’m very excited for the world to see my mom. She has been so influential in my life with me growing up and I see myself in her as I raise my girls. I’m just happy and proud of my mom and who she is, so I’m really happy for the world to see her. And she’s funny, and she’s classy, and she puts me right in my place.

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[Image: Bravo]

U: As moms have to do even as we’re adults, sometimes. It’s interesting because with the exception of Robyn [Dixon], all the other Housewives have daughters. It’s interesting to see the relationships you all have with your daughters, and the dynamic with a grandmother coming on will be equally intriguing.
GB: And her relationship with my kids, you’ll also see, so that’s a pretty special thing. I think she likes them way more than she likes me.

U: Well thinking back to season one a little bit, which Housewives do you think have longevity on the show, considering Katie Rost was let go after just one season?
GB: I don’t necessarily think Katie was “let go.” She chose not to continue. That’s the way I would put it, and we really miss Katie. We still see Katie out and about, or I do. So Katie is missed. I don’t know. To be honest with you, just to look at other franchises, obviously people come and go, but I would like for us to stay together for as long as we can because we knew each other prior to the show. And to see one of us go would change the dynamic.

U: Well, I’m very excited to see the rest of the season. Are there any parting words you’d like to leave with the UPTOWN readers? Anything to amp us up for the new season?
GB: I’ve said that I felt like season one, you guys got to know us and there was a lot of nice-nasty going on between the girls, but season two is just like nasty. There are some moments that are just like WHOA! So everybody kind of like let loose and let their opinions take over. And everybody just kind of like dug their heels into the sand and held on for dear life, so you’ll see a lot of that.

Follow Gizelle Bryant and EveryHue Beauty on Twitter and Instagram. And be sure to tune into The Real Housewives of Potomac season two premiere on Sunday, April 2nd, at 9/8c on Bravo.

Former ‘ANTM’ Model Shot in Houston

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Former America’s Next Top Model contestant Brandy Rusher was shot Sunday night in a Houston apartment complex.

A car reportedly drove up to the complex, and someone inside the vehicle opened fire with a high-powered rifle.

Rusher is in critical condition in the intensive care unit after the incident. Two people died from the gunshot wounds, and four others were also shot.

Police are hunting for the assailants.

Rusher competed on ANTM during season four.

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Sonnenalp Hotel Proves Vail Has More to Offer than Winter Sports

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The Sonnenalp Hotel Meadow Drive view

The Sonnenalp Hotel and Wild Wellness Travel are giving picturesque Vail, Colorado a new reputation by providing mind, body, and soul healing during the summer and fall months.

The resort partnered with Wild Wellness Travel to offer exclusive, four-day holistic living retreats curated by the health and wellness industries’ leading experts. The themes for the retreats range from creative writing to relationship building and self-empowerment.

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Along with working on your mind and soul, each retreat allows visitors to take full advantage of The Sonnenalp Hotel’s facilities, which have Vail’s beautiful mountains as its backdrop. There are breathtaking hiking trails, horseback riding, stand-up paddle boarding, biking, and a gorgeous golf course. Yoga classes will be given in Sonnenalp’s state of the art studio, and the exquisite Sonnenalp Spa offers all the pampering necessary after a day of reviving the body and mind.

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At the end of each day, the guest rooms and suites at The Sonnenalp Hotel, which was awarded the No. 4 spot for Top 10 Best Resorts in the West in Travel + Leisure’s 2016 World’s Best Awards, provide the luxury to recharge for the next day’s itinerary.

With health-focused guests in mind, Wild Wellness Travel has curated retreat programs that include signature workouts, nutrition menus, and health-conscious guided activities. The 2017 retreat schedule includes:

  • Creative Writing Retreat, June 1-4, 2017: Reconnect with your body, your creative spirit and your joy through yoga classes, hands-on healing workshops, daily creative writing, pampering body treatments, and amazing cleansing food with this creative writing retreat. This exciting program provides a sanctuary to recharge, reconnect, and return home feeling renewed. Led by experts Sophie Jaffe and Kathryn Stull, learn essential self-healing practices, hike and explore medicinal plants of the Mountain West, eat beautiful meals, and find creative voices in an intimate and encouraging atmosphere. As this retreat falls so close to Mother’s Day, it is a wonderful chance for moms and daughters to celebrate or reconnect in a gentle, supportive space.
  • IGNTD Nourish Your Soul, August 10-13, 2017: The IGNTD Nourish Your Soul Retreat encourages participants to celebrate body and mind by participating in yoga, movement, nutrition, coaching, and meaningful and provocative dialogue. The itinerary includes spa treatments, superfood workshops, meditations, and yoga sessions in addition to free time to enjoy beautiful Vail and Sonnenalp’s amenities.
  • IGNTD Women, September 28-October 1, 2017: With expert leaders, Sophie Jaffe and Caley Alyssa, find the clarity to realize your dreams with The IGNTD Women Retreat. This program will focus on removing obstacles standing in the way of reaching your full potential. This transformational weekend will be further enhanced with group meditations, yoga practices, and a Philosophie Mama Superfood workshop.
  • IGNTD Couples Retreat, November 16-19, 2017: Led by husband and wife team, Adi Jaffe, PH.D and Sophie, this retreat focuses on utilizing expertise of physical and mental health, nutrition, exercise, neuroscience and self-actualization to positively impact individual’s relationships, career, and well-being. Using varied approaches such as cognitive behavioral education, mindfulness techniques and the latest in biofeedback and neurofeedback, Dr. Jaffe is known for changing lives. Itinerary highlights include daily activities such as yoga and hiking, an introduction to biofeedback, meditation, and stargazing.

Prices for retreats range between $2,600 and $5,200 based on occupancy. To book a retreat or for more information, Sonnenalp.com.

[Images: The Sonnenalp Hotel]

Go Inside the ‘Greenleaf’ Mansion [VIDEOS]

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Just like New York City was the fifth main character in Sex and the City, the mansion that houses Bishop Greenleaf, Lady Mae, and their family on the hit OWN series, Greenleaf, is an integral character. Even though it’s not living, the Greenleaf mansion knows and holds all the family’s secrets and schemes. As they say, the walls have ears.

Lynn Whitfield, who extraordinarily portrays matriarch Lady Mae, treated fans of the show to a tour of the Greenleaf mansion. In part one, she gave us an insider’s look at the dining room, which is where they shot the very first scene of the series, and the staircase leading to the mansion’s front door, which is where many pivotal scenes have occurred.

Greenleaf airs on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. on OWN. Tomorrow’s episode, titled “A Mother’s Love,” is a must-see: After one of Mac’s (GregAlan Williams) victims attempts suicide, Grace (Merle Dandridge) makes a rash decision that may have lasting consequences. Kevin’s (Tye White) mother visits, exposing old wounds. Lady Mae (Lynn Whitfield) tries to reason with Jacob (Lamman Rucker).

[Image: OWN]

First Look: Anthony Anderson, Boris Kodjoe in ‘Ferdinand’ [VIDEO]

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Anthony Anderson and Boris Kodjoe have lent their voices to 20th Century Fox’s animated feature, Ferdinand, which stars John Cena in the title role.

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Ferdinand is a bull with a big heart, but he’s mistaken for a dangerous beast and thrown into the bullfighting arena. He rallies a team of different animals to help him return home to his family.

Anderson voices the character of Bones, a goofy-looking bull, while Kodjoe takes on Klaus, a handsome steed.

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Jerrod Charmichael voices Paco, and Daveed Diggs of Hamilton fame plays Dos.

Ferdinand also Kate McKinnon and Gina Rodriguez.

Ferdinand hits theaters on Dec. 15, 2017, just in time for the holidays.

Hollywood’s Black Renaissance Celebrates #BlackGirlMagic in Film & TV

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Press release:

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LOS ANGELES, California – March 28, 2017 – New digital platform Hollywood’s Black Renaissance (HBR) focuses on news, stories, interviews, and features about African-American women in film and television and provides exclusive, coverage of this group of pioneers and power players. HBR celebrates how women of the African Diaspora capture the human experience on big and small screens, and acknowledges the impact of black girl magic in front of and behind the camera. HBR’s focus on black women is driven by a passion to shine a light on those who tell our stories to the world.

We’re at an interesting time in our nation’s history. With the continued push for more diverse stories in the media, and social movements like #OscarSoWhite, the demand for inclusive voices in the media is clear. With close to 1,000 articles (and counting!) HBR strives to address this need by featuring black women pioneers in film and television such as Neema Barnette, Julie Dash, Yvette Lee Bowser, and more. The platform also highlights the next generation of women in media including Nijla Mu’min, Stella Meghie, Janicza Bravo, and Garrett Bradley. There has never been a community for women of color that focuses solely on the women who are pushing boundaries, breaking through barriers, and making history in film, television, and digital media. This unique platform gives women often overlooked by mainstream platforms, the opportunity to receive the media coverage that they deserve.

“For too long, the perspectives and contributions of black women have gone unheard in Hollywood, and HBR is here to shine a light on the hidden figures who shape and define the images we see,” K. Nicole Mills, HBR’s founder said. With a background in Programming & Development in film and television, Mills understands the need for a platform like HBR first hand. “At a time when the conversation about diversity in Hollywood remains prevalent, recognizing and honoring the powerful presence of black women in film and television, further contributes to the push towards a more inclusive and diverse Hollywood community.”

Mills, left her career on Wall Street to pursue her passion in the world of film and television. She was accepted into the NBC Page Program, and from there joined the Universal Pictures Apprentice Program. Mills then went on to work in programming at NBCUniversal and Showtime. Through her journey she was inspired by all of the amazing women in the industry; however, many people outside of the industry were not aware of their impactful contributions to the media industry. “Our stories matter, and our stories need to be shared with the world. HBR is on a mission to do exactly that.”

Our society is in the throes of an important transition and HBR is here to document how black women are shaping and leading it’s future.

HBR’s coverage addresses a major void and provides rich, unique content that can’t be found anywhere else.

For more information, please visit HBR at http://hollywoodsblackrenaissance.com/ or contact us at info@hbrmedia.org
Web/Social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HBRMediaLLC
Web Site: http://hollywoodsblackrenaissance.com/
Twitter: @HBR_Media

Heard on the Street: Janet Hubert Calls Alphonso Ribiero a ‘Media Hoe’

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[Images: Facebook/Instagram]

“I know the media hoe Alphonso Ribero has posted his so called reunion photo. Folks keep telling me about it. He was always the ass wipe for Will. There will never be a true reunion of the Fresh Prince. I have no interest in seeing any of these people on that kind of level.

I am not offended in the least, by this photo… it was an event for Karen’s charity. It does however prompt me to take some meetings in Hollywood to pitch my memoir PERFECTION IS NOT A SITCOM MOM, and tell of the behind the scenes story before I leave this earth.”

— Blacktress Janet Hubert went on a rant on Facebook to address Alphonso Ribeiro’s Instagram photo, which he captioned: “Always amazing to spend an afternoon with my Fresh Prince family. Wishing that James Avery was still with us to make this complete.” This isn’t the first time Hubert, who will always be the real Aunt Viv to me, has thrown shots at her former co-stars, so it’s understandable that she was left out of the unofficial The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air reunion. She called out Will Smith for boycotting the 2016 Academy Awards not because the #OscarsSoWhite, but because he wasn’t nominated for Concussion.

Is Hubert bitter or does she have a right to be angry?


Deadly Butt Injections Will Cost ‘Toxic Tush’ Doc 10 Years in Prison

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Oneal Ron Morris during a bond hearing in 2015

Oneal Ron Morris, who has been dubbed the “Toxic Tush” doctor, was sentenced in a Broward County courtroom to 10 years in prison, on Monday, for using a toxic mixture to enlarge the backsides of her customers.

The 36-year-old transgender woman plead guilty to manslaughter and injecting several women with a mixture of silicone, mineral oil, Fix-a-Flat tire sealant, cement, and Super Glue.

Morris reportedly injected Shatarka Nuby, 31, as many as 10 times from 2007 to 2010. She earned as much as $2,000 off Nuby, who died after undergoing the illegal botched procedures.

Morris is not a licensed doctor and previously served a year on related charges.

Several of her customers, who also report becoming sick after receiving Morris’s butt injections, were in the courtroom for her sentencing. They say they believed the toxic mixture was actually medical-grade silicone.

“You gave us your word that the products you was using was A-1 products. And come to find out they were not,” said victim Kisha Jones. “Maybe in the beginning, but greed really took over, because you was pocketing the money from every victim.”

What a sad state of affairs all around …

[Image: AP]

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Weekday Distraction: Carol’s Daughter Debuts First TV Ad [VIDEO]

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Premier multi-cultural beauty brand Carol’s Daughter partnered with women-led agency TAG Creative to release its first television campaign, titled “Born in Brooklyn. Made with Love.”

“I began Carol’s Daughter in my Brooklyn kitchen more than two decades ago, and I couldn’t be more excited and proud to see how far the brand has come,” said Lisa Price, Carol’s Daughter founder, in a press release. “My mission has always been to inspire and empower women, and provide high-quality, accessible product solutions for every hair type. To have my story, which all started with hand-crafted recipes in my kitchen, be shared with millions of people in their own homes is truly a dream come true.”

Carol’s Daughter was a pioneer in the natural beauty movement and the commercial highlights the brand’s most beloved and best-selling products: the Black Vanilla, Hair Milk, Almond Milk, and Sacred Tiare collections.

“Our visual inspiration for the creative came from Lisa’s wonderful product recipes,” says Gina Delio, chief creative officer of TAG Creative, in a press release. “And we wanted to express inclusivity for all women. These products and ingredients are great for everyone and every type of hair. Carol’s Daughter has always had diversity at the heart of the brand; it’s the centerpiece of who they are, and we wanted to communicate that.”

Dove Taps Shonda Rhimes to Helm Real Beauty Productions

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“Too long, the definition of beauty has been too narrow, and let’s face it, unreal,” says Shonda Rhimes in a promotional video for Dove‘s new production company, Real Beauty Productions.

Rhimes is heading Real Beauty Productions as creative director. The mission of the new collaborative content studio is to showcase real women’s stories in media and culture, and to be more inclusive and represent more diverse beauty.

“Sixty-nine percent of women agree that they don’t see themselves reflected in advertisements, movies, television — and Real Beauty Productions will change that,” according to a press release. Dove is inviting women to share their stories at DoveRealBeauty.com, and some of these real women stories will inspire Real Beauty Productions’ first films. That means these storytellers will work closely with Rhimes on set to bring these films to fruition.

It’s time all women and girls see their #RealBeauty reflected in media and culture.

[Image: Dove]

Is This Malia Obama’s Beau?

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Malia Obama was spotted walking around New York City’s SoHo neighborhood Wednesday night accompanied by a handsome young guy. Of course, we don’t know whether he is her boyfriend, but here’s what we do know judging from the photos.

The mystery guy is rather tall. He looks to be about three inches taller than Obama, who is 6’1 like her father.

He’s also stylish, rocking a knit cap that’s placed just so atop his head and a leather backpack. He’s also a devotee of the NYC uniform of an all-black or a nearly all-black outfit.

We’re also assuming he’s intelligent because we’d like to think Obama doesn’t associate with people she can’t hold a conversation with or whom her parents don’t approve.

Both Obama and the Mr. Tall, Stylish, and Handsome were accompanied by a third wheel, a female friend, and likely the Secret Service, so they could all just be friends.

Story developing …

Source

[Image: Splash News]

Heard on the Street: Jordan Peele on the Lesson ‘Get Out’ Teaches Hollywood

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“I think the lesson is that when you give Black voices a platform and the opportunity to tell our story, we will tell good stories just like anybody else. The power of story and the power of a well-crafted film or television show is really all you need to speak to people. I think Hollywood is sort of catching up to that. We’re at the beginning of a renaissance where people are realizing Black films can not only work at the box office, but they can work because there’s been a void. Get Out is fresh and novel and new because at the base level it has a Black, male protagonist in a horror movie. It is no mistake that the iconic image from this movie is Daniel’s face with tears streaming down his cheeks. We haven’t seen that before. Usually in horror movies — as in Blair Witch — it is the white girl’s crying face.”

— Jordan Peele discusses with The Hollywood Reporter the lesson his film Get Out and other successful Black films teach Hollywood, in an exclusive interview titled “Jordan Peele on What ‘Get Out’ Teaches Hollywood.” The Key & Peele star, who CinemaCon is honoring as director of the year, also revealed to THR that he has quit sketch comedy for good, preferring “to focus on writing, directing, and producing” and to “nurture his own voice.”

We’ll definitely be watching, Peele.

[Image: Rich Fury/Invision/AP]

RELATED: Get Into This ‘GET OUT’ Art Gallery

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