Review: Chicago Auto Show 2017

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This year’s Chicago Auto Show was slightly scaled down. I assume the extra test tracks are the main reason for the downsizing. When BTSCelebs attended opening day, thousands flocked to McCormick Place just to get a glimpse of automobile future. The majority of the vehicles looked the same as they did the past few years. (With some stunning exceptions, of course). The only brand that stood out to me the most was Mercedes Benz. They occupied two sections of the show with their standard white cargo vans on one side, and “The Jetsons” inspired cars near the test tracks area. I highly recommend sitting in any of their brand new models to be transported to another world. It literally feels like you are sitting in an upscale spaceship! That’s something I have been anticipating to see in cars for years!

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Chevrolet didn’t disappoint with every make and model to choose from. You recognize many fan favorites like the Malibu, but they continue to make them more appealing to the eye while making it an even more comfortable ride. They proudly showcased durable trucks and sport cars for their dedicated fan base. The Lego treasure was a special treat!
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Luxury dealers like Porsche and Alfa Romeo caught my eye, but the fact that they don’t let you sit in the cars or touch the interior is quite the turn off. I understand that the materials used to create the vehicles are expensive, but potential buyers come from far and wide to see this show so it would be nice to accommodate them by opening up a couple of models.

BTSCelebs recommends you pick your favorite brands and solely focus on these exhibits at this years’ show. There is so much to see, but many designs mirror ones from the past few years. The special extras and revisions in your favorite models are the main things that will hold your interest. As for the test tracks, Ram Mercedes-Benz’ “Iron Schöckl” and Camp Jeep are for the thrill seekers. Steep hills and treacherous turns await you. Toyota’s RAV4 & Highlander Experience appeared to be the most tamed out of all the test tracks.

The Chicago Auto Show runs thru February 20th at the McCormick Place.

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 *A Special Thanks to the Chicago Auto Show for the press pass.*

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Album Review: David Dunn’s “Yellow Balloons”

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Recording artist David Dunn outdid himself!

After listening to his incredible new album “Yellow Balloons” a few times, I finally realized the meaning behind the entire project. It’s about a man’s journey (in his Christian faith) to realizing that he needs to surrender everything to God. When Christians don’t understand why things happen, or when it seems like everything is falling apart…don’t focus on it, but rather surrender to God’s perfect will instead.

Personally, I feel David Dunn is a poet. and I was anxious to hear his new album mainly for his intense lyrics. His words connect with listeners on a different level. Of course, his voice is pleasant to the ears as well. “Yellow Balloons” maintained 1990s-2000s styled music with its pop rock feel while seasoning it with a few modern elements to make it competitive against fellow 2017 tunes. It was so hard to pick favorites amongst his gems! If I had to choose stand out tracks, they would be “Kingdom”, “I Don’t Have To Worry” and “Ruins”.

I recommend people of all ages and religions to check out this inspirational album shining a light of hope in the middle of despair.

David Dunn’s “Yellow Balloons” will be released on February 17.

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*A Special Thanks to Merge PR and David Dunn for the digital version of “Yellow Ballons”.  Image and Video Credit: BEC Recordings/Capital CMG .*

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Album Review: Hollyn’s “One Way Conversations”

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Hollyn‘s new album “One Way Conversations” is more of a personal diary than a standard worship album. I wouldn’t go as far and say it mirrors Britt Nicole’s 2016 self titled project, but it definitely feels like the 20 year-old recording artist is starting to branch out. She sings about her personal view of God, self-esteem, friendships and romantic relationship issues.

“One Way Conversations” overall has that urban, hip hop feel with a 2017 flair. The tunes are very easy on the ears and seems tailormade for road trips or the next youth/family friendly Hollywood film. I enjoyed the album and would say the stand out tracks are “Can’t Live Without”, “In Awe”, “Lovely” and “Go”.

On a scale of 1 to 5, I would give “One Way Conversations” a 4 on the mainstream scale.

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*A Special Thanks to Merge PR and Hollyn for the digital version of “One Way Conversations”. Image and Video Credit: Gotee Records/CapitalCMG Publishing.*

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A&A Ballet Wins Big at the “2017 Youth America Grand Prix”

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A&A Ballet is already off to a great start!

Dancers, ages 9 – 19, lined up to compete in one of the largest ballet competitions in the world last weekend. The young students (and instructors) from the new A&A Ballet company showed everyone what they are made of, and they are already being honored with awards prior to their first major production.

Check out the incredible A&A Ballet winner’s list below:

Grand Prix Award (Juniors) – Grace Curry

Outstanding Teacher Award – Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev

Outstanding Choreographer Award – Tara Drew (“Dying Swan”)

1st Place Ensembles – “Ashes to Ashes” (Justin Allen)

“Moonlight Rush” (Alexei Kremnev)

1st Place Classical (Juniors) – Isabella Boyd 2nd Place Contemporary (Seniors) – Kennedy Brown

3rd Place Classical (Seniors) – Jiayi Guo

Top 12 – Taylor Arseneau, Madison Braaksma, Dahila Winders, Emma Alicz

Congratulations once again to all the winners!

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*A Special Thanks to A&A Ballet’s President/Director Alexei Kremnev for the info and images*

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Book Review: Regina Jennings’ “For The Record”

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You can’t judge a man by his hooded mask!

Author Regina Jennings put a unique spin on crime and criminals in her latest book “For The Record”.  Deputy Joel Puckett and Betsy Huckabee’s budding love story pales in comparison to the unexplained violence plaguing the small town of Pine Gap.

After fleeing Texas, Deputy Joel is determined to start a new life as a lawman without the alleged “womanzier” stigma following him everywhere he goes. Not only does he quickly get mixed up with young, fiction writer Betsy; his new neighbors (who ride around in hooded masks to fight crime) despise him! Domestic violence, arson and attempted murder all seem to fall into the deputy’s lap before he can earn the townspeople trust and respect. To top it all off, Betsy’s romantic fiction columns are bringing his dark past back to life.

“For The Record” was an interesting read, but there is so much more to the story than what the synopsis outlines. Its more about community and not being quick to judge others. With that being said, give this book the benefit of the doubt and discover all it has to offer.

*BTSCelebs thanks Bethany House for the complimentary copy of the book.*

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BTSCelebs Is Going To The “2017 Chicago Auto Show”

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Today, BTSCelebs received the official press pass to cover the “2017 Chicago Auto Show” for you!

I’ll head over to the annual vehicle event, which is one of the largest in the nation, and try my best to feature even more autos than last year. Camp Jeep, Fiat Chrysler Automobile’s multi-brand track, Toyota’s RAV4 & Highlander Experience,  Ram Mercedes-Benz’ “Iron Schöckl” are all offering test tracks at the show, and I’ll make sure to tell you how the vehicles ride.

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This year’s auto show sponsors are: State Farm, Fifth Third Bank and Shell, Xfinity, Steel Market Development Institute and the Chicago Tribune.

The thrilling virtual tour awaits you in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to BTSCelebs for all the car goodies!

*All rights to the images belongs to The Chicago Auto Show.*

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Kurt Schneider Shares MAX and Alyson Stoner Reunion MV

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They’re back!

It’s been almost two years since Kurt’s dream team has performed a duet on his YouTube channel. March 5th, 2015 was the last time MAX and Alyson covered a hit song together. Since then, they have continued their entertainment careers, MAX got married, and both of them sang alongside other stars.

It’s great to see the former Nickelodeon actor and Disney star join forces once again. Check out their nostalgic cover of a popular Backstreet Boys song below:

Even though I’m allergic to Butterfingers, great job on the classic song, guys!

*All rights to the video and screencap belongs to Kurt Hugo Schneider. *

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Falcons and Patriots are “Superbowl 51” Bound

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Atlanta and New England represent!

On February 5th,  Superbowl 51 kicks off in Houston’s NRG Stadium. The Falcons and Patriots beat their opponents today fair and square for a shot at football glory next month. Falcons won 44 to 21 against the Packers, while the Patriots scored 36 to the Steelers 16 in the end.

I wish it was the Bears, but I’m excited to see these two fight for the title! May the best team win!

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All rights to the images belongs to the Patriots and Falcons.

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Wayne Brady Gets Comfortable in “Hamilton” Role

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Wayne’s in town!

The “Let’s Make A Deal” host is excited about his new role in the hot Broadway musical. Chicago’s “Hamilton” audience has already given him a warm welcome, and he seems to be quite happy here.

Mr. Brady recently tweeted this friendly message to accompany the selfie above, “More A big thank you to everyone that’s come out so far to catch me as A.Burr in @HamiltonMusical Chicago! 3 shows in & I’m lovin’ it!”

All the best to Wayne Brady during his run with “Hamilton” at The PrivateBank Theatre.

All rights to the image and quote belongs to Wayne Brady.

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Hairspray’s Dove Cameron and Jennifer Hudson Take a Birthday Selfie

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Jennifer Hudson Instagrammed: “Happy 21st bday @dovecameron i love u, I do!”

*All rights to the image and quote belongs to Jennifer Hudson.*

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