#MaytheFourth — May the Fourth is here, so it’s time to pay homage to the epic world of Star Wars! Whether or not you’re a fan, I guarantee you recognize the distinctive, backward, proverb-like delivery of the character, Yoda. But what makes Yoda-speak so unique? Syntax. What is Syntax? Vocabulary, articulation/pronunciation, syntax, context, and other…

Comfort foods have enjoyed a surge of popularity during the pandemic. And even as things return to normal, the residual stress people feel due to lifestyle changes, the threat of illness, political unrest, and racial violence and tension cause people to take comfort in the foods they enjoyed during childhood. …

The History of Pumpkin Spice: A Documentary with Director Q&A Friday, October 23rd, 7 p.m. Take a journey through the evolution of our favorite spice blend from the historic spice trade of the East to the humble American pumpkin pie to the introduction of the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte that remains synonymous with the Fall season today. The Question of Allspice Saturday, Oct…

Quaranbeans Available Now! — Bertie Bott’s is pleased to introduce Quaranbeans — a limited edition version of our signature Every Flavor Beans. Our confectioners have been hard at work — remotely, of course — perfecting new and unique flavors to reflect 2020, this most bizarre year in our history. This themed box of jelly beans is strictly for adults and includes none of the delicious “normal” jelly beans you know and love.

Donate now to my Facebook fundraiser — My birthday is just around the corner, and this year I want to give back to those who are less fortunate than me. It’s a cause that is close to my heart. Did you know that some kids can’t afford to go on Spring break? I didn’t. Until I did. …

Documenting my “naked-faced” experiment — The last day I did my hair and my makeup was the last day I went to work. By 8 p.m. on Monday, March 16th, 2020, businesses in New York — including gyms — were subject to mandated closure to stop the spread of coronavirus. I had a 6 p.m…

For when everything goes your way in a pandemic — I wake up at twilight and meditate for one hour. I take an exercise class, then make a green juice. I write 1,000 words a day and before I know it, I’ve crafted an entire fictional universe that becomes a best-selling trilogy. I unglue my butt from the sofa and…

COVID-19 is zoonotic disease, not a “Chinese disease.” — There has been an increase in anti-Asian sentiment since the spread of the new coronavirus aka COVID-19, which originated in Wuhan, China (unlucky day for them.) Our president is planting seeds of misdirected blame by calling it the “Chinese virus,” which is a misnomer. But Chinese people — or anyone…