Arts and Entertainment

See Cities Like Never Before with Go City Explorer Pass

October 29, 2019

When I moved to New York City way back in 2003, I never thought I’d still live here 16 years later. After becoming a mom, I made it my mission to show my two children as many of the city’s top sights and cultural attractions that the Big Apple has to offer.

Throughout the years, I’ve taken them to quintessential places around the city like Ellis Island, the American Museum of Natural History and a host of others, but there were three iconic spots we’d yet to visit: the Empire State Building, Luna Park during Halloween Harvest and the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center.

That all changed when we got the opportunity to check out the Go City New York Explorer pass. The super cost-effective pass gives tourists and locals alike, the keys to more than 20 cities including New York, Dubai, Chicago, Las Vegas, Sydney and New Orleans. With seemingly limitless possibilities at your fingertips, you can choose packages for 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 attractions. Plus, it’s super easy and can be downloaded straight to your smartphone. The best part? You can visit any of the attractions at your leisure within 30 days after the first attraction has been activated. This alleviates the pressure of trying to squeeze everything into one day.

empire-state-building-go-pass-karla-pope

Our visit to the Empire State Building using the Go City Explorer pass in New York City.

With the New York City pass, those interested in seeing the Empire State Building have an incredible bonus on Tuesdays and Thursdays: exclusive early access before it opens to the public! We experienced this remarkable perk and we couldn’t have been more pleased. No crowds and no hustle and bustle so we could enjoy our time and take it all in virtually uninterrupted. I’ll never forget my kids’ excitement when we finally arrived at the top. It was a priceless moment that I won’t soon forget.

We also had the chance to visit Luna Park at Coney Island for our first visit during Harvest Fest. Having access to 24 unlimited rides was a dream come true. They rode their favorite rollercoasters, swings and rides over and over again. We’ve gone to Coney Island plenty of times in the past, but our Go City pass provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience that my kids were so grateful to have.

Our visit to Luna Park at Coney Island during Halloween Harvest in Brooklyn.

Our visit to the Empire State Building using the Go City Explorer pass in New York City.

Our visit to Luna Park at Coney Island during Halloween Harvest in Brooklyn.

Finally, within 30 days of our first pass activation, we made our way to the Top of the Rock. While the pass didn’t provide early access like the Empire State Building, it did have one major advantage: breathtaking views of the Empire State Building!

Our visit to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center using our Go City Explorer pass in New York City.

Our visit to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center using the Go City Explorer pass in New York City.

Whether you enjoy bike rides, museums, skyscrapers, landmarks, walking tours or something in between, the Go City Explorer pass is your ticket to countless memories. Even if you call the city home or if you’re traveling abroad, your pass grants you access to a world of discovery.

For passes and more information, please visit Go City.

**Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. I was provided four tickets for review purposes only.

Have you ever used The Go City Explorer pass? What’s your favorite New York City attraction?

Refinery29’s 29Rooms is Heading Back to Brooklyn

October 23, 2019

Cynics who thought selfies and perfectly curated Instagram feeds were going to fizzle out, fat chance. The photo-sharing craze that sends millennials into frenzies is here to stay, at least for the near future.

To satisfy the cravings of the photo-obsessed set, Refinery29’s 29Rooms is heading back to Brooklyn. That means it’s time to grab your bestie and your best outfit and get ready to strike a pose in front of some cool backdrops and artistic installations.

This year’s immersive exhibit will boast a bevy of local and nation, emerging and established collaborators across sectors including art, entertainment, politics and style. Each of the 29 rooms will be designed and curated under the “Expand Your Reality” umbrella, which encourages attendees to step into the unexpected and unleash their curiosity and creativity. The tour has already touched down in Chicago, Dallas and Atlanta. Now it’s time for the interactive phenomenon to return home.

The Expand Your Reality tour continues at 25 Kent Avenue in Brooklyn from December 6-15. Get ready to rack up “likes” because your social media feed is about to get a major upgrade.

Check out some of the upcoming rooms:

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JULY 17: Art installation featured in 29Rooms: Expand Your Reality Chicago Tour opening night on July 17, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for IMG/Refinery 29 )

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – AUGUST 28: The Art Park Atlanta piece by NNEKKAA at 29Rooms: Expand Your Reality Atlanta Tour Opening Night at The Works on August 28, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Refinery29)

TORONTO, ONTARIO – SEPTEMBER 26: General atmosphere at 29Rooms: Expand Your Reality Toronto Tour Opening Night at Exhibition Place on September 26, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by GP Images/Getty Images for IMG/Refinery 29)

Tickets are available now at 29Rooms.com starting at $25.

Have you ever attended 29Rooms? If so, what was your experience?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Review: ‘The Pout-Pout Fish’ Leaves Audiences Smiling

October 17, 2019

As a mom of two, I’ve seen my fair share of grumpy faces and endless grimaces. So, I was intrigued to find out the story behind TheaterWorksUSA’s latest stage production, “The Pout-Pout Fish.”

I knew it would center around an ocean pout, which is a real marine creature typically found in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of New England and eastern Canada. But, what I didn’t know was how much my kids and I would enjoy this impeccable blend of puppetry, music and awesome storytelling. Well, ok, maybe that’s not exactly true – my expectations are always high when it comes to shows at The New Victory Theater. They consistently deliver top-notch performances and this was no exception.

Photo credit: Jeremy Daniel

Based on the best-selling children’s book series by Deborah Diesen, “The Pout-Pout Fish” takes audiences on an underwater ride of self-discovery and exploration. The protagonist is a big, blue fish who wears a perpetual pout and sees his world through a dark, pessimistic lens. Despite his ocean friends’ unceasing pleas for him to get out and enjoy life and experience new things, he resists. That is until one fateful encounter with a magnificent pearl that inadvertently gives him a positive glimpse into who he truly is.

Unfortunately, he loses the precious gemstone, which sends him on a quest to reclaim this ocean-shattering revelation. Along his journey, he’s faced with challenges and meets new friends that show him that life isn’t so bad after all.

If your children are fans of the book, they’re going to really enjoy this stage adaptation. It’s chock full of awe-inspiring puppetry and catchy songs that will have you humming them long after you leave the theater. Ideal for children ages 4-7, the show will keep them engaged and entertained throughout.

For tickets and more information, visit The New Victory Theater.

“The Pout-Pout Fish” runs through October 20, 2019 at New Victory Theater is located, 209 W. 42nd Street, New York, NY

Has your child read “The Pout-Pout Fish” book series?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments

Recap: Finding Ashley Stewart 2019

September 18, 2019

Every year there are events that I look forward to attending, but none of them are ever as fun as the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale.

This past weekend marked my second year covering the crowd-pleasing show. Part pageant, part concert, the event is a culmination of a year-long search for an ambassador who embodies what the global fashion brand stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: A view outside Kings Theatre during the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Over the past year, Ashley Stewart made stops in several major cities including Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago, on the hunt for Finding Ashley Stewart 2019. This year, eight beautiful finalists were flown to New York City to showcase their style, curves, smarts and unique personalities in front of a live audience at King’s Theatre in Brooklyn. No contest is complete without a master of ceremonies and a roster of judges and this year was no different.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Loni Love speaks onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Hosted by talk show host/comedian Loni Love, the event was chockfull of talented judges and special guests including Kid Capri, DJ Olivia Dope, producer and media mogul Yandy Smith, drag queen, performer, and Season 11 contestant of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Silky Ganache, American journalist and essayist Charisse Jones, as well as past Ashley Stewart winners Tiffany Flamer and Theresa Larsen.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Faith Evans performs onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

After each of the hopefuls strutted their stuff across the stage and answered hard-hitting, topical questions, the audience was treated to an unbelievable concert.

R&B legend Faith Evans opened the show with hits like, “Soon As I Get Home,” and “I Remember (You Used to Love Me).” She ended with the dance party anthem, “Love Like This.” As a diehard “faithful” (the endearing term Evans uses to describe her loyal fans), I was in heaven as the talented singer took me back to the ‘90s with her powerful voice. Hip-hop pioneers Salt-n-Pepa shut the show down after performing classics like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Shoop,” and “Push It.”

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Sandra Denton, Pepa and Cheryl James, Salt of Salt N Pepa perform onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Finally, after the soul-stirring musical acts, it was time to crown Ashley Stewart 2019. After much deliberation, the finalists which included a teacher, news assistant, makeup artist and other professionals, were narrowed down to one: Addlia Edwards.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Addlia Edwards (2nd L) receives award onstage at the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

The Atlanta native and hairstylist walked away with the title of Ashley Stewart 2019 and a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

In addition to show’s grand prize, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart finale event also awarded over $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, partnering with organizations such as Susan G. Komen, Black Retail Action Group, and others.

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has been a stalwart on the plus-size fashion scene, as well as a positive pillar in the community. With more than 89 stores across the country, and a booming online presence, Ashley Stewart has undeniable staying power and we’re here for it!

What article of clothing makes you feel confident and empowered?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Fashion | Leave a Comment

Don’t Wait Until ‘Pigs Fly’ to Plan a Family Game Night

September 17, 2019

Before there were video games, there were board games.

For centuries, playing games has been a fun bonding experience for families around the globe.

Sure, video games garner a lot of attention with their incredible graphics and action-packed themes, but they’re no match for gathering with family over a good, old-fashioned interactive game.

In fact, my kids can’t get enough of the new Flying Pigs game by Cra-Z-Art. As little plastic pigs whirl around a clear, motorized globe, players try to help the farmer get his piggies back to the barn. By using colorful wands, players try to catch as many flying pigs as they can.

The Flying Pigs game is suitable for children ages 4+ and is available here, for $20.

Not only is the game fun for the whole family, it also helps with hand-eye coordination for young children who are still mastering those skills. While catching plenty of piggies is the name of the game, don’t catch the white one! If you do, all your piggies get placed back into the globe putting you in a not-so-good position. The player with the most piggies/points at the end is the winner!

My son absolutely loves this game. He’s got this piggy catching thing down pat! As a parent, it’s such a pleasure watching my kids enjoy the simple things in life. With all the tablets, gadgets and digital technology that bombard children today, it’s refreshing to just go back to the basics.

This non-tech game is a prime of example of classic fun that creates lasting memories for the entire family. Oh, and who ever said pigs don’t fly?

What is your family’s favorite board game? How often do you plan game nights?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Google Photos Adds New Features to Make ‘Memories’ Even Sweeter

September 12, 2019

If you know me, you know there are few things I love more than photos. In fact, I take thousands every year. When I’m not snapping selfies or shots of my two kids on my camera phone, I’m taking a digital trip down memory lane looking through all the wonderful moments I’ve captured over the years.

Today, Google Photos made my photo-loving life even better. Honestly, I didn’t think the already innovative app could get any better, but it has. The Silicon Valley-based tech powerhouse rolled out three game-changing features that will make reminiscing easier and creating tangible memories simpler.

Memories made easy

Like I mentioned, I love sifting through old photos. However, due to the large volume of pictures in my gallery, it’s nearly impossible to sort through them all. Therefore, a ton go into an imaginary photo graveyard likely to never be viewed again. That’s where Memories come in. Now, users can see their photos from previous years that were taken around the same time period. For instance, photos that were taken five years ago this week, can be seen at the top of the home screen. These photos are pooled into “stories” similar to social media, highlighting some of your best shots from that timeframe.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Turn memories into masterpieces

What parent doesn’t have a ton of frame-worthy shots of their children? Well, thanks to Google Photos’ new canvas prints, moms and dads can up their ante and turn their favorite pictures into canvas masterpieces! It’s so easy, even the most tech-challenged can seamlessly navigate and purchase. Starting at only $19.99 and in three different sizes (8×8, 11×14 and 16×20), this makes an affordable and perfect gift for grandparents. Plus, is there a better way to decorate your place than with the faces of your loved ones?

Courtesy of Google Photos

Take memories into your own hands

In today’s digital world, it’s easy to get used to looking at things on screens. Photos are no exception. However, special pictures have an even more powerful impact when we can hold and feel them in our hands. There’s something magical about seeing a memory figuratively come to life. With Google Photos’ photo prints, you can take your best shots and display them in albums, stick them on the fridge or put them in a frame – the options are endless.

Courtesy of Google Photos

And the cost is the cherry on top. There’s not much you can get for under a dollar, but these high-quality prints are only a quarter each! Talk about affordable. Plus, the process is virtually seamless. Select your photos, swipe up, check out and they will be available to purchase at your local Walmart or CVS. In fact, CVS, which offers same-day pickup at more than 7,400 stores, are all supported by Kodak Moments Prints partner program. Nothing says quality quite like Kodak.

Innovation + nostalgia

What’s more? The brilliant minds behind Google Photos have even developed a way to search photos by text. Confused? Don’t be. For example, say you’re looking for a book you snapped in the bookstore, but can’t remember the full title? Simply type the part of the title you remember into the search field and the photo should instantly appear.

In the coming months, Google Photos is also making it easier to share and send photos with family and friends. Now, your favorite photos will be added to a private conversation, making it easy to access all the photos you’ve shared with each other without leaving the app.

What will they think of next?

Do you use Google Photos? What’s your favorite feature?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Gumbo Mix | 4 Comments

Event Recap: Back-to-School with Nintendo

August 22, 2019

Nothing says nostalgia like Nintendo.

As a child growing up in ‘90s, I vividly recall playing video games for hours on end. From Super Mario Bros. to Paperboy to Castlevania, I have so many fond memories of playing a variety of games on the trailblazing system.

Fast forward to today and now my kids are getting a taste of that same fun. Although we don’t have any gaming consoles at home, both of them have had several opportunities to play and create their own video game memories.

For example, this past weekend we were invited to attend a back-to-school event with Nintendo at their flagship New York City store. In celebration of the upcoming school year, attendees were encouraged to design their own pencil cases using exclusive Nintendo stickers, glittering gems and other eye-catching accessories. In addition, kids got the opportunity to demo the interactive Nintendo Labo: VR kit, and of course, play video games like Super Mario Maker 2 and more! Plus, they even got to meet the main character behind the iconic brand, Mario!

Even though the event was obviously geared toward kids, we parents/bloggers weren’t left out. In fact, we heard from Nintendo reps and learned about the new VR kit, code-centric games and the new parental control offerings to keep our kiddies’ playing time in check.

While we don’t own a Nintendo system, I’m seriously considering purchasing one (they absolutely love Mario Kart!). Many of the games are educational, improves problem-solving skills and are downright fun! Thanks to the parental controls, I can monitor their screen time and ensure that they’re maintaining a healthy balance.

My childhood wouldn’t be the same without those countless days and nights playing the latest Nintendo games with my cousins. I’ll forever cherish those priceless memories and hope that one day my kids will do the same.

Check out more pics from the cool back-to-school event!