Good Morning, Gorgeous!

Just imagine what positive self-talk and powerful affirmations could do to your diabetes life.

Self-talk is the practice of talking to oneself, either aloud or silently. It can be positive or negative depending on your thoughts and external influences.

My good friend, Kathie Dolgin, professionally known as ‘High Voltage,’ uses affirmations daily to manage her health by avoiding added sugars.

According the American Heart Association reports American adults consume an average of 17 teaspoons of added sugar every day, more than 2-3 times the recommended amount for men and women respectively. This adds up to around 60 pounds of added sugar consumed annually. 

To keep all of this in perspective, it’s helpful to remember the American Heart Association’s recommendations for sugar intake.

• Men should consume no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams or 150 calories) of added sugar per day.
• Women, the number is lower: 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 100 calories) per day. Consider that one 12-ounce can of soda contains 8 teaspoons (32 grams) of added sugar!  There goes your whole day’s allotment in one slurp.

Often, High Voltage starts her day by saying, “I am happy! I am healthy! I am the best, and I deserve the best!”

My friend Paulette McWilliams offers this beautiful rendition of Luther Vandross’s song, “So Amazing”, arranged by Grammy winner ( Gregory Porter) Kamau Kenyatta.

Whatever the case, self-talk is the most potent form of communication because it either empowers you or defeats you.

Join us for our Luther Vandross: Never Too Much celebration featuring a Panel discussion, Fashion Show, Luther Games, Live Performances, and Live DJ on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at Thread Lounge in New York City. Come dressed in your Big 80s Bling!

Luther Vandross was known for wearing rhinestones, tuxedos, and tailcoats on stage. He wore Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford off-stage! He wasn’t afraid of wearing bright colors, animal prints, geometric patterns, and/or fringe. His style and incredible showmanship brought him legions of fans worldwide.

We’re celebrating the glitz and glamour that made his concerts more memorable and set him apart from other entertainers.

PANEL: How the Magic on Stage happened! Luther’s Vocalist, Cindy Mizelle, Luther’s Choreographer, James Ervin, and Graffiti Glamour Makeup Artistry Founder Alicia Mitchell help us get a closer look at the Shine of the Rhinestones, Big Luscious Hairstyles, and Bold Makeup to the Graceful Moves and Tight Harmonies. Hosted by Max Szadek.

FASHION SHOW: Designers showcase their gorgeous creations inspired by the romance and elegance of Luther Vandross. See the latest styles from Harlem’s Heaven and Modafleur, and more! Hosted by

PERFORMANCE: Luther’s most iconic songs performed by Luther’s most iconic songs by vocalist Keith Anthony Fluitt.