The Recap Report Staff – Page 2

A Night of Strength and Self-Care: Moniek Garside Journal Signing

Written by The Recap Report Staff on October 24, 2024. Posted in Business, Education, Health and Beauty, Lifestyle.

On Thursday, October 17th, Moniek Garside, LCSW, celebrated the launch of her first journal, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You”, at Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The event was an inspiring evening centered on empowerment, strength, and self-care, as Moniek connected with attendees who are passionate about personal growth and wellness.

The highlight of the night was a fireside chat between Moniek and Star94 Personality Alyssa DiTomasso, where Moniek shared insights about the importance of self-care and how her journal can serve as a tool to help others on their journey. The atmosphere was warm and uplifting, filled with thoughtful conversations and powerful reflections on achieving balance in life.

While enjoying delicious food and cocktails, attendees had the opportunity to engage with Moniek and gain valuable insights about how to improve their well-being. Moniek’s journal, “I Can. I Will!”, is designed to help users set goals, reflect on their progress, and ultimately create a pathway to a more fulfilling life.

Guests had the opportunity to browse an array of exclusive merchandise, including t-shirts, coffee mugs, and a special “balance” candle, all available for purchase. Moniek also took time to personally sign cards and connect with family, friends, and fellow wellness enthusiasts, making the event a personal and memorable experience.

For those who couldn’t attend, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You” is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu. To stay updated on Moniek’s work and wellness journey, follow her on Instagram at @fitlifewellnessllc.

The evening was not just about celebrating a journal launch—it was about fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and inspiration for everyone in attendance. Moniek Garside continues to encourage others to prioritize self-care and embrace their journey toward personal growth.

Honoring Legends, Shaping the Future: Inside the 2024 Living Legends Gala

Written by The Recap Report Staff on October 7, 2024. Posted in Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Influential People, Lifestyle.

The Thomas J. Blocker Society hosted its highly anticipated 3rd Annual Living Legends Gala at the Loews Hotel in Midtown Atlanta. Over 100 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a night of honor, inspiration, and the impactful leaders shaping the future of healthcare.

The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception, where influential guests and sponsors had the opportunity to network and engage in intimate conversations. Among the attendees were high-profile leaders from various industries, all united by a common goal: to support the next generation of healthcare professionals.

With Emmy Award-winning actress Jasmine Guy as Mistress of Ceremonies, the formal gala commenced in spectacular fashion. Thomas J. Blocker Society (TJBS) President Dr. Vandy Gaffney opened the program with Wayne Martin, President and CEO of Covenant HealthShare, and Dan Walden, executive at PNC Bank, among the key speakers. The night also featured moving testimonials from two students, who shared their personal stories about how TJBS and its members have positively impacted their academic journeys and career trajectories.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Dr. Harold Jordan and Dr. Willie Underwood III for their dedication and services to Georgia’s medical landscape. This segment offered a powerful moment with an intimate discussion featuring honoree Dr. Willie Underwood III and facilitated by 11 Alive’s Emmy-nominated anchor Jonathan Martin. The conversation covered Dr. Underwood’s remarkable career and provided an insightful look at the current state of healthcare.

Guests also participated in a lively auction, where generous bids were made in support of scholarships and programs designed to empower future leaders in healthcare and biomedical sciences.

The gala was made possible due to generous contributions from this year’s sponsors, including Covenant HealthShare, PNC Bank, Henry Schein, Northside Hospital, United Healthcare, Morehouse School of Medicine, Rucker Roots, Carter Hill, Sonder Health Plans, Law Offices of Cameron Hawkins, Olly, Pop Socket, Dax Hair Care, Best-Selling Author Bonika Wilson, Skin Leaf Cosmetics, True Citrus, and many more.

For more information on how you can support Thomas J. Blocker Society initiatives or participate in next year’s gala, please visit www.thomasjblockersociety.com.

Celebrating National Vodka Day with Blackleaf Organic Vodka: The World’s First Black-Owned Organic Vodka

Written by The Recap Report Staff on October 4, 2024. Posted in Business, Featured, Food, Lifestyle, Trending.

Co-founders Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow. Photo Credit: Trarell Torrence

On October 4th, vodka enthusiasts everywhere celebrate National Vodka Day, a day dedicated to appreciating one of the world’s most popular spirits. Since 2009, this occasion has been marked across the United States, spotlighting the finest vodka brands. Today, we’re paying tribute to a standout brand that is revolutionizing the industry—Blackleaf Organic Vodka, the world’s first Black-owned organic vodka.

Founded by Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow, Blackleaf Organic Vodka is not just about creating a premium drink; it’s about crafting a high-quality, eco-friendly experience. As the first French organic vodka in the U.S., Blackleaf is made from 100% organic French wheat and distilled five times. This meticulous process ensures that every sip delivers an ultra-smooth taste, perfect for both seasoned vodka drinkers and those seeking something new and refined.

A Vodka of Distinction

Blackleaf Organic Vodka has earned prestigious accolades from around the globe, solidifying its place among the best. The brand took home a Double Gold Medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition, as well as at the New York Wine & Spirits Competition and the Singapore World Spirits Tasting Competition this year, marking two consecutive years of Double Gold wins at all three events. These awards highlight Blackleaf’s dedication to quality, taste, and sustainability.

According to the co-founders, the mission of Blackleaf is simple: to create a great-tasting experience. Their passion for premium vodka and their commitment to using organic ingredients set them apart in an industry that often prioritizes mass production over quality. “We’re proud to deliver on this promise and be recognized by discerning taste buds,” they affirm.

A Taste Like No Other

What makes Blackleaf stand out beyond its organic certification is its unique flavor profile. Tasting notes describe a satiny mouthfeel, with sophisticated hints of peppercorn, nut, and spiced pear. The vodka starts sweet and finishes with a silky smoothness that leaves a lasting impression. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, Blackleaf Organic Vodka offers a luxurious experience that elevates any occasion.

A Brand with a Purpose

More than just a spirit, Blackleaf represents a step forward in both diversity and sustainability in the spirits industry. As a Black-owned brand, it continues to pave the way for inclusivity, while its commitment to organic production shows a dedication to environmental consciousness.

As we celebrate National Vodka Day, there’s no better time to raise a glass to Blackleaf Organic Vodka—a trailblazer in the world of spirits, blending taste, tradition, and innovation.

Happy National Vodka Day!

For more information on where to find Blackleaf Organic Vodka, visit: www.blackleafvodka.co

The Pink Frog Foundation: Providing Vital Support to Breast Cancer Patients

Written by The Recap Report Staff on October 2, 2024. Posted in Health and Beauty, Influential People, Lifestyle.

The Pink Frog Foundation, founded by Tammy L. Bolton and Robert H. Bolton, has become a beacon of support for breast cancer patients, offering essential services to ease the burdens of those undergoing treatment. Inspired by Tammy’s own battle with breast cancer, the foundation aims to extend the same love and care that Tammy received during her treatment journey to others facing similar struggles.

Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997, Tammy faced one of the toughest challenges of her life. However, she was fortunate to have an extraordinary support system, including her husband Robert, his mother, and a close-knit family and friends. They rallied around her, cooking meals, cleaning, and providing emotional support. It was through this experience that the Boltons realized just how crucial such support was during the fight against cancer. This realization led them to create The Pink Frog Foundation, ensuring that other breast cancer patients would have access to similar resources.

The foundation offers a range of services to help patients through their treatment, including meal preparation, a buddy system for emotional support, nutrition guidance, and transportation assistance to and from medical appointments. These services make a tangible difference for patients, alleviating some of the day-to-day challenges that can feel overwhelming during treatment.

Tammy’s vision for The Pink Frog Foundation continues to grow. While the organization currently serves breast cancer patients in the Metropolitan Atlanta area, Tammy hopes to one day expand their reach to all corners of Georgia, ensuring that women throughout the state receive the support they need during their journey.

The foundation’s annual signature event, the Pink Frog Affair, will take place on Friday, October 4th, at 7:30 pm at the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, Morehouse College. Proceeds from the event will benefit breast cancer patients in the metro Atlanta area, helping to provide them with vital resources as they undergo treatment. This year’s gala promises to be an unforgettable evening, featuring a special performance by renowned gospel artist Ricky Dillard.

Tammy hopes that attendees of the Pink Frog Affair leave with an important message: stay positive and never give up, no matter how tough the journey may seem.

To purchase tickets for the Pink Frog Affair, click here. For more information on The Pink Frog Foundation and how to support their mission, visit here.

Empowering Wellness and Inclusivity: The Visionary Leadership of Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden at iSee Technologies

Written by The Recap Report Staff on September 20, 2024. Posted in Business, Education, Featured.

Kamille Richardson: Turning Rejection Into a Vision of Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson, founder and CEO of iSee Technologies, has turned the challenges she faced into powerful tools for change. Born blind, Kamille’s early career search was marked by rejection and biases, as many hiring managers were unwilling to accommodate or understand her blindness. These setbacks, rather than deterring her, fueled her resolve to create her path. Instead of being defined by the barriers imposed by others, Kamille decided to hire herself, which became the solution to the problems she faced.

Kamille now leads iSee Technologies, a company dedicated to providing corporations and government agencies with the tools to address unconscious biases and foster more equitable and inclusive work environments. Her unique perspective and experience enable her to help organizations unpack the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, ultimately creating more inclusive workplaces.

One of Kamille’s signature achievements is her keynote speech, “The Magic of Being Differently Disabled.” In it, she reframes the concept of disability, shedding light on common misconceptions about blindness and other disabilities. Through her journey, and the stories of others, Kamille inspires her audiences to challenge their preconceived notions and adopt actionable steps to foster inclusivity in their daily lives.

Kamille’s advice to individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in public speaking or entrepreneurship is practical and empowering: start small and grow from there. Whether it’s conducting short Instagram Live sessions or speaking to smaller audiences, she emphasizes the importance of building confidence gradually. For those interested in entrepreneurship, Kamille suggests joining local business networks, such as the Chamber of Commerce, to establish connections, grow a network, and create visibility in the community.

Her greatest career accomplishment so far is building iSee Technologies, a company that reflects her vision of inclusivity and empowerment. By turning the countless “no’s” she received into a business that benefits not only herself but countless others, Kamille has proven that barriers can be transformed into opportunities.

Lakila Bowden: Championing Wellness and Leadership

As COO and co-founder of iSee Technologies, Lakila Bowden brings a unique approach to leadership that is rooted in both corporate success and a deep commitment to personal wellness. Having transitioned from a traditional corporate background, Lakila now dedicates her time to helping high-achieving women unapologetically prioritize self-care. She encourages women to celebrate self-care in every facet of their lives through her keynotes, breaking the idea that focusing on oneself is selfish or indulgent.

Lakila’s role as COO is ever-evolving, but her leadership style remains consistent. She focuses on honoring rest, building a strong team, and engaging with clients that align with iSee Technologies’ core values. Under her guidance, iSee has worked with major companies like Walt Disney, Kraft Heinz, and government agencies—organizations that have made wellness a key pillar of their corporate culture. Lakila emphasizes that companies willing to invest in wellness for their teams see real results, including improved collaboration and enhanced productivity.

In her own life, Lakila practices what she calls “Lakila’s Self Care Cheat Codes”—a set of simple yet impactful practices that keep her grounded and balanced. These “cheat codes” include exercise, mindfulness, and practicing deep self-compassion. But perhaps one of her most important strategies is surrounding herself with people who uplift and support her. She believes that self-care isn’t just about the individual; it’s about creating an environment where people around you contribute to your wellness and motivation.

Lakila also brings intentionality to her work at iSee Technologies. Not every organization is the right fit, and that’s okay. She prioritizes working with clients who genuinely value inclusivity and wellness, ensuring that iSee Technologies can make the greatest impact. Despite retiring from corporate America at just 37, Lakila’s proudest achievement is her impressive career accomplishments and her ability to consistently celebrate every win, no matter how big or small, even during uncertain times.

iSee Technologies: A Shared Vision of Wellness and Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden have taken their distinct paths and combined them to create iSee Technologies, a company that provides people development solutions with a focus on workforce wellness, performance enhancement, and inclusive workplaces. Their work shifts the hearts and minds of organizations, helping teams collaborate more effectively, boost profitability, and motivate employees to perform at their best.

At iSee Technologies, wellness, and inclusivity are not just ideals—they are actionable, transformative strategies that are embedded into every partnership. Together, Kamille and Lakila are redefining what it means to lead, offering organizations the tools they need to create cultures that not only embrace diversity but thrive because of it.

To learn more about iSee Technologies.

Follow Lakila Bowden on Instagram @lakilaj and Kamille Richardson @kamillealia

Dahéli Hall’s Journey Through Infertility and Creativity: The Birth of SPADURA

Written by The Recap Report Staff on September 19, 2024. Posted in Education, Health and Beauty, Influential People, Lifestyle.

Dahéli’s creative journey for her project, SPADURA, began in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown—a period she describes as particularly isolating. This challenging time coincided with her struggles with infertility, creating an intense need to process her emotions and experiences in a meaningful way. For Dahéli, expressing herself through performing, journaling, and making people laugh has always been a therapeutic outlet. However, with the world on pause and her usual ways of coping out of reach, she turned to writing as a means of navigating her IVF journey.

One of Dahéli’s most significant challenges was the emotional weight of shame and guilt. She found herself grappling with the societal and familial expectations of conceiving after marriage. Dahéli recognized that marriage often comes with an underlying assumption of starting a family, or expanding it if a couple already has children. These external pressures compounded her internal struggle, making the journey even more isolating.

As a comedian, Dahéli faced an additional layer of complexity. She realized there weren’t many visible examples of comedians successfully balancing motherhood with their careers. This realization motivated her to pursue motherhood on her own terms, which soon meant navigating the demanding process of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) while continuing her work on stage. The experience was grueling: performing for an audience, awaiting test results, and repeating the cycle night after night.

When the lockdown finally eased, Dahéli took a brave step towards opening up about her journey. She rented a small theater near her home for $20 an hour and invited friends to hear her story. The choice to share was prompted in part by the constant inquiries from friends and family about when she would start a family. By speaking openly about her and her husband’s struggles, she hoped to shed light on the complexities and hardships of their journey.

Dahéli emphasizes that the path to motherhood—or even deciding if motherhood is right for someone—is far from straightforward. In many cases, women only speak about their infertility struggles after achieving pregnancy, but Dahéli was navigating her journey in real-time. Through her performances, she wanted to explore how one can endure losses and setbacks without allowing them to become defeating.

Through SPADURA, Dahéli aims to provide a platform for conversations that are often swept under the rug, including issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, endometriosis, hysterectomies, and miscarriages. Her goal is to infuse these discussions with humor to make them more engaging and break the stigma that often surrounds these topics. By doing so, she hopes to help more women feel seen and understood.

Ultimately, Dahéli wants her audience to leave the show feeling uplifted. Her vision for SPADURA extends beyond a single performance; she dreams of turning it into a series that continues to explore the complexities of women’s health and fertility in a way that is both honest and humorous. Through her work, Dahéli hopes to foster a sense of community and solidarity among women, creating a space where their stories are not only shared but celebrated.

Follow Dahéli on Instagram at @daheli.hall and @spadura_show.

Dahéli Hall Captivates Atlanta with SPADURA: A Powerful Journey Through IVF

Written by The Recap Report Staff on September 12, 2024. Posted in Education, Entertainment, Lifestyle.

Dahéli Hall brought an electrifying energy to the stage during the Atlanta showing of her one-woman show, SPADURA. Her unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and heart. She made even the most complex aspects of her story accessible to all. From the moment she stepped on stage, her presence was magnetic, guiding the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions. Some laughed, some cried, but by the end, every person left the theater with a smile on their face, uplifted by the power of her storytelling.

At its core, SPADURA delves into Dahéli’s personal journey with IVF, shedding light on the often unspoken struggles many women endure. IVF is far from an easy journey, and Dahéli made sure that the message was clear. However, her effort to make the topic relatable truly shone through, allowing audience members to connect deeply with her experience. Her authenticity and warmth radiated, letting women in the crowd know that they’re not alone, while also breaking down the stigma surrounding the all-too-common “When are you going to have a baby?” question that many married couples face.

The show received glowing reviews from attendees, with many praising Dahéli’s ability to blend raw emotion with humor, creating an experience that resonated deeply with everyone in the room. Her delivery was as heartfelt as it was engaging, offering a space for shared understanding.

Following the performance, Dahéli hosted a Q&A session, where audience members had the chance to share their own stories, ask questions, and reflect on the themes of the show. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and support, as others opened up about their experiences, feeling seen and heard in a space that Dahéli so thoughtfully created.

SPADURA is more than a show—it’s a conversation starter, and Dahéli Hall’s brilliant performance in Atlanta left a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to witness it.

Now Dahéli is headed to her hometown of Miami to give another riveting performance. Tickets for SPADURA are available at SPADURA.com/tour.

Follow Dahéli on Instagram at @daheli.hall and @spadura_show

Terry McMillan’s Latest Film “Tempted By Love” Hosts Successful Atlanta Premiere

Written by The Recap Report Staff on August 16, 2024. Posted in Entertainment, Featured, Influential People, Trending.

The red carpet premiere of Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love lit up Atlanta with all smiles as local cast, crew, and supporters gathered for a special screening ahead of the film’s TV debut on August 17th. The event showcased a star-studded cast, including Garcelle Beauvais, Vaughn Hebron, and Donna Biscoe, with appearances by Waiting to Exhale alums Lela Rochon-Fuqua and Loretta Devine, who delighted fans with their first on-screen reunion since the 1995 classic.

Tempted By Love weaves together a steamy May-December romance, centering on Ava (Beauvais), an esteemed chef based in Europe, who is grappling with the future of her career and her battle with arthritis. While visiting her aunt (Biscoe) after an accident, Ava finds herself drawn to her younger and irresistibly charming driver, Luke (Hebron). As their connection deepens, Ava becomes conflicted about her newfound romance and faces the challenging decision of what her future with Luke will hold. With themes of love and self-discovery, the film captivated the audience, balancing heartfelt moments with lighthearted humor.

The film features guest appearances by Waiting to Exhale stars Lela Rochon and Loretta Devine, who portray family friends in the film. Their reunion on screen adds a nostalgic touch, as fans are treated to seeing them together again nearly three decades after their iconic performances.

Executive produced by Beauvais, McMillan, D’Angela Proctor, Richard Foster, and Chet Fenster, and directed by Taliah Breon, “Tempted By Love” also marks Proctor’s debut in theatrical film production.

Proctor previously expressed her excitement, stating, “I am elated to make my theatrical debut with Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love.” This film represents everything Undaunted Content stands for—fearlessly telling the beautiful love story of a seasoned Black woman dealing with relatable real-life issues.”

The evening ended with a standing ovation, as attendees celebrated the hard work of the cast and crew, who reflected on seeing their project come to life on the big screen.

“Tempted By Love” continues its theatrical run from August 9 to August 16, before premiering on Lifetime on August 17th at 8/7c.

Blackleaf Organic Vodka Highlights Sustainability and Premium Quality at Atlanta’s Mixologist of the Year Awards

Written by The Recap Report Staff on July 19, 2024. Posted in Business, Food, Lifestyle, Trending.

The vibrant city of Atlanta recently experienced a celebration of sustainability, premium quality, and exceptional cocktails as Blackleaf Organic Vodka sponsored the Season 5 Mixologist of the Year Awards (MOYA). In partnership with Chambord Liqueur, this remarkable event showcased Blackleaf’s mission to create unforgettable moments through eco-conscious craftsmanship.

Rellie’s Founder Terrill Patterson with Blackleaf Organic Vodka Co-founder Montè Burrow

Held at One Street Over in downtown Atlanta, the competition brought together the city’s top bartenders for a thrilling contest to determine the nation’s most prolific bartender. Kicking off at 7 PM, the event featured innovative riffs on the classic French Martini, highlighting the superior quality of Blackleaf Organic Vodka and Chambord.

The opulent ambiance, enjoyed by 50 guests, was complemented by a selection of tapas and cocktails, all infused with the award-winning Blackleaf Vodka. Blackleaf Organic Vodka, founded by Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow, is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and excellence. The event, presented in collaboration with Chambord Liqueur, owned by Brown-Forman, emphasized the dedication of both brands to crafting premium beverage alcohol products.

Winning cocktail by Nick of Twisted Soul

After a fierce competition, the title of Mixologist of the Year was awarded to Nick from Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, representing West Midtown. The grand prize included $300, a trip to Atlanta in January 2025, the prestigious title of the nation’s most prolific bartender, a $5000 prize, swag, and a trophy. This event was one of 13 qualifiers for the MOYA Finals, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition.

Drawing a diverse audience of industry professionals and cocktail enthusiasts, the event showcased Blackleaf Vodka’s commitment to sustainability and premium quality and their mission to create memorable experiences, celebrating the best in mixology talent and craft.

For more on Blackleaf Organic Vodka and upcoming events, visit their website and follow them @blackleafvodka across social media.

Cobb County Democratic Chairwoman Essence Johnson Hosts Successful Debate Watch Party at Luckey’s BBQ Place

Written by The Recap Report Staff on June 28, 2024. Posted in Education, Featured, Influential People, Lifestyle, Trending.

In honor of the first presidential debate, on June 27th, Essence Johnson, Chairwoman of the Cobb Democratic Committee, hosted a highly successful presidential debate watch party at Luckey’s BBQ Place. The watch party was strategically chosen at Luckey’s BBQ Place, a beloved black-owned restaurant in the community, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to supporting local businesses and celebrating diversity.

The watch party saw an impressive turnout, with over 100 attendees packing the venue to show their support for the Democratic Party. Among those present were delegates, elected officials, and several candidates currently running for office. Before the debate started, attendees enjoyed a lively game of trivia with an opportunity to win a prize, demonstrating the widespread interest and engagement in the upcoming election.

Courtesy of Cobb County Democratic Committee

Essence Johnson took the floor before the debate began to deliver an inspiring speech. In her speech, she highlighted the critical importance of education and the power of community. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, igniting a sense of enthusiasm and solidarity that set a positive tone for the rest of the evening. Essence’s speech emphasized the Democratic Party’s commitment to these values and motivated attendees to continue their support and activism.

In recognition of her leadership and dedication, Essence Johnson was selected to be the liaison for President Biden as he embarks on the next leg of his campaign trail. Following the debate, Johnson accompanied President Biden to an Atlanta area Waffle House, where they continued to engage with local constituents and furthered their message of community.

Essence Johnson’s successful hosting of the debate watch party and her subsequent role alongside the President underscores her significant influence and dedication within the Cobb Democratic Committee. Her efforts in encouraging community engagement and her leadership in political activities continue to inspire and mobilize support for the Democratic Party.

Author: The Recap Report Staff