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I Sailed On Royal Caribbean’s President’s Cruise, And Here’s Why I Would Do It Again

Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

[BEYOND the 615Travel Feature]  What’s the President’s Cruise on Royal Caribbean? It’s a special, annual cruise that the President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Michael Bayley, plans a fun-filled, week-long cruise onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s modern, innovative ships and travels on along with the Executive Staff to celebrate all things Royal Caribbean with their most loyal cruisers.

Michael Bayley and the Executive Staff onboard Allure of the Seas for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Anyone can book this cruise.  No invitation is needed to sail on it, but it depends on your tier level with Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program, the Crown & Anchor Society, as to what special events onboard for the week you’ll be invited to take part in.

There were plenty of fun activities for everyone onboard, regardless of loyalty tier level, to enjoy every day.  Plus, there were more intimate, exclusive events that week planned for the two highest tiers: Pinnacle Club and Diamond Plus that included cocktail parties, trivia with the Executive Staff & hosted by Super Mario, Common Ground meeting with the president, sharing memories & memorabilia from past Royal Caribbean cruises with the President and Executive Staff by individuals, and a fun pool party.  There were also daily activities reserved for only the highest and most loyal tier of the Crown & Anchor Society, Pinnacle Club, with daily meals shared together and exclusive surprises for them.

Pinnacle Club & Diamond Plus loyalty tier members enjoying a special Crown & Anchor Society Pool Party onboard Allure of the Seas in the Solarium during the 2023 President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit:  Joe Zicari

Loyalty gains you special privileges, perks, and recognition onboard every Royal Caribbean cruise throughout the year with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society, but during the annual President’s Cruise, your loyalty is uniquely-rewarded in different ways and taken to a heightened level depending on your tier status with them.

Each day I received surprises and special theme memorabilia to take home with me. Pictured are a few of the fun gifts I was given onboard during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Each day I was treated to a fun gift in my cabin or at an event that included a President’s Cruise-themed magnet on my cabin door to greet me on embarkment day along with my themed cowboy hat in the color of my choice at the cruise terminal, a bottle of champagne with a special note thanking me for my loyalty, a President’s Cruise-themed insulated bottle to take home, themed beach bag, a chocolate bar from Royal Day at Costa Maya, and a limited release 25th anniversary baseball hat.  It was so much fun to open my cabin door to find special treats left for me.  There were also daily drawings for luxe prizes that everyone onboard the cruise was entered in to at the largest events that week.

Watch a short video of highlights HERE.

Some of the managers of crew onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise greeting passengers. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

Now in its 6th year, this year’s President’s Cruise took place on the beautiful Allure of the Seas, part of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class of ships, from July 23-30, 2023 to the Western Caribbean ports of Roatan, Honduras, Costa Maya, Mexico and Cozumel, Mexico.

Allure of the Seas
Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

Sailing out of Royal Caribbean’s brand new cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, this President’s Cruise promised to be bigger & bolder than previous President’s Cruises with the much-awarded cruiseline celebrating 25 years of the Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program, a new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal, and the most phenomenal comeback of all the cruiselines following the pandemic shut down back in 2020 as their stock prices continue to soar and prepare to launch 2 brand-new ships in 2024 (The highly-anticipated Icon of the Seas in January and Utopia of the Seas in July.)

Royal Caribbean’s brand new, state-of-the-art, multimillion dollar cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas that opened in November 2022. Photo credit: Royal Caribbean International

The oasis class is currently the largest class of ships in the world out of all the cruiselines, featuring: Wonder of the Seas (newest, launched March 2022), Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas.  With the final ship in this innovative class to be unveiled in July 2024, Utopia of the Seas.

Watch a short video of highlights HERE.

This was my first President’s Cruise to have the pleasure of sailing on, but it definitely won’t be my last if I can help it.  I can say without hesitation that this was my very favorite cruise I have ever been on in my 30 years of cruising.  Being a long-time fan of Royal Caribbean since my very first cruise ever onboard their then state-of-the-art Sovereign of the Seas back in 1993, I was sailing as a Diamond Plus tier member with their loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society.  I have so many past cruises to compare this one to, so saying it was my favorite is no small feat.

Watch a short video of highlights HERE.

As an added special treat, 10-time GRAMMY Award winner & musical icon, Chaka Khan, was onboard sailing all week with her family and band.  She performed an exclusive concert twice while sailing during the 7-night voyage.  Only a limited number of guests were able to see her perform in-person in the ship’s Amber Theater, but the concert was livestreamed all across the ship for special viewing parties in various venues onboard for all guests onboard to enjoy.  You can watch some clips from her performance onboard HERE.

I had access to most of the special events planned, including seeing Chaka Khan perform live onboard this mammoth vessel, which was one of the highlights of the cruise for me.  Hearing her iconic hit songs again and seeing her perform in-person brought back so many great memories for me as a teenager growing up in the 1980’s, which was during the heighth of Chaka Khan’s career.  She still has an incredibly-powerful voice after all these years and puts on a great show.  I couldn’t help myself as I stood and sang along to “I’m Every Woman”, and I was out of my seat dancing for most of the show, as well.  So much fun!

Super Mario having a little fun with the Executive Staff as he hosts a trivia game with them during the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

This special cruise included a milestone silver anniversary celebration of 25 years since the creation of the Crown & Anchor Society, which offers the best perks for loyalty out of all the cruiselines, in my opinion.  Everyone onboard was able to enjoy this beautiful, silver-themed celebration in the ornate Royal Promanade.

There was the fun day at the port of Costa Maya where Royal Caribbean took over the entire port to celebrate Royal Day with free food, drinks, and entertainment at every turn that all guests onboard got to enjoy.  You can see some of the highlights of the celebration HERE.

Royal Caribbean tookover the port of Costa Maya in Mexico for one day dubbing it Royal Day. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

The Royal Roundup, a country music-themed party held in Studio B, was a big hit among guests as drinks were served and people took to the dance floor for some fun linedancing doning their complimentary President’s Cruise cowboy hats that we all received on embarkment day at the new cruise terminal in Galveston as we prepared to sail away later that day.  A great time had by all for some fabulous, boot-scootin’ fun!

Another highlight was the Garden Spritz party I got to enjoy along with other Diamond Plus tier members in the Central Park neighborhood of the ship, which was beautifully-decorated with touches of orange since sponsored by Chandon for this special occasion.

The Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in the Central Park neighborhood onboard was beautifully-decorated and decked out in orange for Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club tier members only to enjoy. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

New Pinnacle Club members, Patrick and Janice Moan, enjoying the Garden Spritz mixer sponsored by Chandon in Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas during the President’s Cruise 2023. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

The Central Park neighborhood is always one of my favorite places to visit because it is so beautiful and a wonderful place of tranquility to escape to for a nice dinner at one of the specialty restaurants, a peaceful stroll, listen to some jazz music, or to enjoy a nightcap whenever sailing on one of Royal Caribbean’s oasis class ships only.

This is a view of the Central Park neighborhood onboard Allure of the Seas from a little-known, tucked away public balcony accessible from deck 9 by the elevators on both sides. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

There is just so much I could write about, but I’m afraid this article would become a long novel if I go on about it much longer.  So, I’m going to wrap it up now! I would book this particular themed cruise again and again in a heartbeat.  It was a level of amped up fun that only Royal Caribbean International, its President and his Executive Staff knows how to truly bring!

The Island Jam with Michael Bayley held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras for the President’s Cruise. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

This cruise had everything, even all-you-can-eat lobster tails with a full, fresh seafood spread available for all guests on the first day in the Windjammer Cafe along with specialty procured excursions filled with unique experiences designed for the President’s Cruise only, like the Island Jam with Michael Bayley, held at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatan, Honduras featuring an all-you-can-eat, mouthwatering spread of local favorites, fresh coconut water served in handcrafted coconuts with the President’s Cruise logo emblazoned on it, local music, dancing, and tasty tropical drinks with little umbrellas served by an attentive staff on sugar white sand beaches overlooking clear, turquoise-colored water.  It was a slice of paradise for the day that I never wanted to leave!

If you are looking for an all-inclusive vacation that will appeal to the entire family, you can’t go wrong with a Royal Caribbean cruise onboard one of their 26 ships, but especially on an oasis class ship like Allure of the Seas.  From great food, included in the cruise ticket cost per person, full Broadway shows like “Mamma Mia” in the Amber Theater, an aerial, acrobatic, highdiving, water-themed spectacular show in the Aquatheater that is a must-see (on oasis class ships only), an ice skating rink by day turned into an entertaining ice skating show inside Studio B featuring elite level ice skaters from around the world, comedy club featuring rotating featured comedians, highly-organized  by staff kids programs for all ages, a surfing simulator, pools, hot tubs, waterside, a zip-line, arcade, movies, shopping, live music in various nightclubs, dance classes, theme parties, parades through the Royal Promanade, trivia, bingo, full-access ship & kitchen tours with brunch, shipboard activities designed for athletes &

Enjoying breakfast in Coastal Kitchen on Allure of the Seas.
Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

foodies, specialty dining, spa, health club, staff-led exercise classes, the adult-only fun of the Solarium featuring a pool & bar area and Casino Royale. (Don’t forget to insert your Seapass into the slot machines as you play or hand to the dealer at table games to become a member of Club Royale to earn points towards perks like free drinks, free cruises, onboard comps, invitations to special casino events, and more.)

Enjoying a cosmopolitan in the Diamond Lounge during Happy Hour onboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. July 2023 – Photo credit: Patrice Majors | BEYOND the 615 (part of FOCUS on the 615)

There is just SO much to experience and do onboard Royal Caribbean’s innovative fleet of ships that will appeal to all ages and you’ll never be bored.  I promise! So, what are you waiting for? Go to their site by clicking HERE to book a cruise now to see how fabulous a vacation at sea can be.  Whether you’re a solo traveler, celebrating your honeymoon, a family traveling together, or enjoying retirement in your golden years, there is something onboard for everyone on a Royal Caribbean ship to the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Panama Canal, Europe, Greece, Asia, Australia, and more.

Want to find out when & where the next Royal Caribbean President’s Cruise is? Just watch the video below to find out!

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Launch Of BEYOND the 615

We are excited to launch a new section of FOCUS on the 615 called BEYOND the 615 to include travel and entertainment from outside of Nashville aka the 615.

Be on the lookout for a feature here soon as we started things off for BEYOND the 615 sailing onboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas from July 23-30, 2023 for their annual President’s Cruise.

 

 

 

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Kelsea Ballerini Shows A Rawness, Vulnerability, And Growth In Short Film

This short film from Kelsea Ballerini is next level for her all around. I’ve always enjoyed her music, but this shows a growth, rawness, and vulnerability that will resonate with a lot of people.

We’ve seen the playful and fun side of Kelsea in her early twenties that garnered so much praise.  Now, we have a glimpse at the woman she is becoming as she leaves her twenties behind along with the end of her marriage as she carves herself a new path bravely forward.

Can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented artist!

 

 

 

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A Special Night At The Judds Farewell Concert Taping

CMT and Sandbox Productions in conjunction with country music legend Wynonna Judd will headline a history-making concert event with “The Judds: Love Is Alive – The Final Concert” on Thursday, Nov. 3, at the Murphy Center at Middle Tennessee State University.
The event recreates “The Judds 1991 Farewell Tour” for a special televised event airing in March 2023 on CMT.
Wynonna’s current tourmates Ashley McBryde, Brandi Carlile, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town and Martina McBride are also slated to perform.
Photo credit: MTSU

I was one of the fortunate ones to be invited to attend The Judds Farewell Concert taping produced by CMT and Sandbox Entertainment.  The concert took place Thursday, November 3rd in Murphy Center at MTSU in Murfreesboro, located just 45 minutes outside of Nashville.

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This was the original location of the farewell concert back in 1991, so it was a re-creation of that night made for CMT.  For me, it was extra special since I was a student at MTSU back then.  It was a night filled with nostalgia.

Wynonna Judd was joined by several special guests throughout the two hour concert on this beautiful fall night, including: Little Big Town, Ashley McBryde, Kelsea Ballerini,  Martina McBride, and Brandi Carlile. 

Understandably, this was an emotional night for Wynonna after the tragic loss of her mother, Naomi Judd, only a few months ago before they were to set out on the final tour together.  Thankfully, she has all these incredibly-talented friends in the industry to help her sing the iconic duos’ many well-known hit songs.

The audience held up lit up phones, sang along, danced, and many tears were shed throughout the evening without any prompting like you normally get at tv tapings.  You could feel such incredible, uplifting energy throughout the building from the moment Wynonna and her band stepped on stage through to the very end.  It was truly a magical night.

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My very favorite part of the concert took place at the very end when Wynonna was joined on stage by all her special guests and a choir joined into the audience to sing, “Love Can Build A Bridge”.  It gave me chillbumps as I fought back tears.  It was a very moving and powerful moment in a night full of special moments .

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkpDRl3sDN-/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

This special will be airing exclusively on CMT very soon.  I will be sure to spread the word when the special is to air.  You don’t want to miss it!

 

 

 

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A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Live On Stage At TPAC Through December 22nd

Cast of A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Live On Stage playing at TPAC.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Live On Stage that is currently running through December 22nd in downtown Nashville at TPAC.  I thought might be a little too geared for the kids for me to really enjoy and would probably be completely surrounded by kids, too.

Well, I was wrong and I’m so happy that theatrical productions are back after the start of the pandemic.  You will have to wear a mask and provide proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test to attend, but these are minor inconveniences done for the safety of all involved and the audience so we can still enjoy these types of live events.

I really enjoyed this musical based on the beloved Christmas classic cartoon that has aired on TV since 1965.  Yes, there were a lot of kids as expected, but it was mostly adults in the theater.   It’s meant for all to enjoy.

The whole show was well done.  Maybe not eye catching and dazzling costumes, but a talented cast performing this family-friendly Christmas treasure.  I really liked the unexpected intro/opening segment.  The scene with Lucy fantasizing about being the Christmas Pagent Queen was fun and the Christmas pagent itself was a really nice treat.  My favorite part of the show was watching all the antics of Snoopy.  He’s always the best part of the cartoon and steals this live show, as well.

Don’t miss this endearing live stage production this holiday season that gets to the heart of what Christmas is really all about.  There is only one day left to see it, so you better act fast by getting your tickets at: www.tpac.org!

 

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Review: Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier 4L by Everlasting Comfort

Winter can be brutal, cold outside and dry heat on the inside.  For me personally, it always means I have difficulty breathing and sleeping at night because of it.  Every night I experience a nosebleed due to dry heat in the colder months, something that has plagued me ever since I can remember.  I know…GROSS, but what can you do?

If you have thin membranes like me, you seek some relief from it during the winter time, so buy yourself one of these.  Your sheets will thank you.  Your night time apparel will thank you.  Your significant other will thank you, I’m sure.

The Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier 4L with essential oil tray made by Everlasting Comfort has been a lifesaver for me this winter.  If I forget to plug it in and run it while I sleep, then I will inevitably wake up to a nosebleed.  However, I am not dealing with those issues at all this winter as long as I have this running at my bedside.

It retails for $39.95 on their website here.  However, Everlasting Comfort is offering a special 20% off discount for our readers.  Just go here to get your promotional discount and mention FOCUS on the 615 or click on the link on photo below.

I highly-recommend it to my readers.  Reasonable price made even better with our special discount.

It’s lightweight, easy to use, multiple settings, and a large enough water tank to last 2 full nights before refilling with regular tap water.  I personally enjoy the added lighting on it, too.  You can add essential oil into the added tray for aroma.  The

I rate it 4 out of 5 stars only because it is not AS fancy as some I have seen, but it does a great job.  Those other fancy ones will cost you a lot more.  This is made from a durable plastic in the color black and not metal or glass like some I have seen on the market.  Grab one at this special price before they run out! Price is subject to change and availability while they last.

About this item

  • Cool Mist Humidifier: Features a 4 liter (1 gallon) water tank, with a high mist output. Our ultrasonic humidifier works in rooms up to 300 square feet and lasts up to 40 straight hours between refills. This makes our air humidifier a room essential for the house, apartment, office, nursery, or college dorm
  • Essential Oil Tray: More than just a humidifier, we added a tray for essential oils. Your oil diffuser humidifier circulates the oils into the cool mist, giving you a clean, pure, and fresh smelling aroma. Ideal for creating an at home aromatherapy experience. Our humidifier for babies also features a blue LED night light
  • Filterless Design: Our ultrasonic humidifier design is filterless, eliminating the need for expensive replacements. Important: Running the humidifier in humid conditions can cause water accumulation on surfaces. Use a hydrometer to monitor humidity levels. It is recommended to keep humidity between 40 and 60 percent. Exceeding 60 percent of humidity can cause water accumulation and can damage wood, electronics, and other surfaces
  • Auto Shut Down, Whisper Quiet: The vaporizer humidifier automatically shuts down when out of water. This helps prevents damage to the unit and keeps you protected. Our home humidifiers are nearly silent, making them the ideal air humidifier for baby rooms and bedrooms
  • ETL Certified: We took extreme care when designing our room humidifier, and back it up by meeting the highest safety standards. The power cord and all electrical components are ETL certified by Intertek to ensure safety and reliability. Don’t go with someone else that uses inferior parts, go with the humidifier certified to last.
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2020 CMT Music Awards Recap

Morgan Wallen performs inside a cave near Nashville for CMT Music Awards.

This year has been so different in every way, including the 2020 CMT Music Awards held last night in Nashville and surrounding areas, not only for the audience, but for the artists, as well.  Hosted by Sarah Hyland, Kane Brown, and Ashley McBryde, what sets it apart from the ACM Awards and CMA Awards is it is the only country music awards show that is fully fan voted.

Usually, the CMT Music Awards are held one day prior to the start of CMA Music Festival in June at Bridgestone Arena in front of a full audience with most of the country music industry in attendance.  This year, there was no red carpet, no live audience, and no press at any of the various on-site locations.

There was a Ram Trucks sponsored fan viewing party with several emerging artists (Mickey Guyton, Travis Denning, Ingrid Andress, Caylee Hammack, Riley Green, and HARDY) that a few lucky fans got to attend outside in downtown Nashville near the Cumberland River.  Production staff was very careful to make sure all wore masks, socially distanced, no large crowd, and held outside.  It looked like a fun time for those in attendance for some great performances from the Ram Trucks stage.  You can view full performances from each of the artists HERE.

 

Opening the night was a fun collaboration with Luke Combs and Brooks & Dunn singing “1, 2 Many” live together for the first time.

Just so many standout moments from the night like Breakthrough Video of the Year winner, Gabby Barrett, with her #1 hit, “I Hope”.   Ashley McBryde always brings something special to every performance.   live from Switzerland.  Jennifer Nettles being honored with the first CMT Equal Play award as an advocate for the women of country music who have been struggling for the last several years to be heard on country radio.

Carrie Underwood ended up, unsurprisingly, being the biggest winner of the night winning both Female Video of the Year and Video of the Year.

Little Big Town wrapped up the night with their newest release, “Wine, Beer, Whiskey”.  There were so many standout performances, but this was my favorite of the night.  I love their fine-tuned harmonies, their energy, and this song is a jam that I want to keep on repeat.  A clip of their performance is below, but for the full performance, go HERE.

The CMT Music Awards is always one of my favorite events of the year.  Even though 2020 with the pandemic changed many things, it was still a night to remember.  Great production and performances.

For much more from the night, go to: www.cmt.com.  All video footage & photos courtesy of CMT.

“2020 CMT Music Awards” winners include:

 

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Carrie Underwood – “Drinking Alone”

 

FEMALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Carrie Underwood – “Drinking Alone”

 

MALE VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Luke Bryan – “One Margarita”

 

GROUP VIDEO OF THE YEAR 

Old Dominion – “One Man Band”

 

DUO VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Dan + Shay – “I Should Probably Go To Bed”

 

BREAKTHROUGH VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Gabby Barrett – “I Hope”

 

COLLABORATIVE VIDEO OF THE YEAR 

Blake Shelton with Gwen Stefani – “Nobody But You”

 

CMT PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

From CMT Artists of the Year: Chris Young – “Drowning”

 

CMT EQUAL PLAY AWARD

Jennifer Nettles

 

QUARANTINE VIDEO OF THE YEAR (SOCIAL ONLY AWARD)
Granger Smith – “DON’T COUGH ON ME!”

 

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Kane Brown And The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project Team Up With Veterans To Release “Homesick (Veterans Version)” And Give Back To American Heroes

NASHVILLE, Tenn., August 5, 2020 Anchored in its longstanding belief that ‘it’s not about what you have, but about what you give,’ Crown Royal is giving back to support American heroes who are serving on the frontlines and minority veterans in their fight for social justice. The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project is enlisting the help of award-winning, multi-platinum country music artist Kane Brown and a team of veteran singer-songwriters to remix his number one single “Homesick,” launching on the one-year anniversary of the song’s original release date.

For every stream of “Homesick (Veterans Version)” The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project will pack 1 bag to be donated as a care package to non-profit Packages From Home as part of the brand’s goal of one million bags by the end of 2020, and will donate $1 to community-based 501(c)3 organization Minority Veterans of America, up to $100,000. Crown Royal and Kane Brown are committed to supporting the American heroes who have generously served our country during these unprecedented times, including frontline and essential workers, first responders, healthcare workers, active-duty military servicemembers and those who are fighting for social justice in the minority veteran community.

Originally written by Brown, “Homesick” was dedicated to members of the military. The “Homesick (Veterans Version)” track, available on streaming services on August 5th, is a reimagined ballad featuring the vocals of veterans Generald Wilson, Retired Petty Officer First Class, U.S. Navy; J.W. Cortés, Retired Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marines; and Sal Gonzalez, Retired Lance Corporal, U.S. Marines. It is available to stream HERE.

“I’m honored to partner with The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project and release ‘Homesick (Veterans Version)’ in recognition of the American servicemen and women who have given so generously during this difficult time,” said Kane Brown. “I also recognize the incredible importance of acknowledging the service our minority veterans have made for this country. My hope is this remix shines a light of hope and generosity, to uplift our heroes during this time.”

“As a veteran, it means so much to work with a brand that has a long history of supporting service men and women,” said J.W. Cortés. “I want this remix to serve as an anthem for all American heroes as we continue to work together for a better tomorrow.”
“Our iconic purple bag is a symbol of generosity and we’re proud that The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project can help give back to those who have given so much of themselves,” said Sophie Kelly, SVP, Whiskies, Diageo NA. “We’re so grateful for the support of Kane and our veteran partners, as well as Packages from Home and Minority Veterans of America, as we continue to give back to those who protect and serve our country.”

While life looks different today than it did before, Crown Royal hopes you raise a glass at home while listening to the “Homesick (Veterans Version).” As always, please drink responsibly.

About The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project
After over a decade of giving back to military servicemembers, in 2018, Crown Royal formally launched The Purple Bag Project to use the brand’s iconic purple bags in a greater, more purposeful way. In partnership with non-profit Packages From Home, Crown Royal announced its goal of packing one million care packages for American military heroes by the end of 2020.

About Crown Royal
Crown Royal Canadian Whisky is the number-one selling Canadian whisky brand in the world and has a tradition as long and distinctive as its taste. Specially blended to commemorate a grand tour of Canada made by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain in 1939, Crown Royal’s smooth, elegant flavor and gift-worthy presentation reflect its regal origins – it is considered the epitome of Canadian whisky. For more information, visit www.crownroyal.com. Crown Royal encourages all consumers to please enjoy responsibly.

About Diageo
Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives and ways to share best practice.

Follow us on Twitter for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

About Kane Brown
With his #1 Billboard 200 release, Experiment, Kane Brown became the only male country artist in more than 24 years to debut at the top of the Billboard 200, and only one of three country artists to top the Billboard 200 chart all year (2018). An “artist to pay attention to” and “the future of country” (Billboard), Brown was named a Breakthrough Artist of the Year by the Associated Press and one of “31 People Changing the South” (Time).

The AMA, ACM, Billboard and People’s Choice Award winning and nominated artist is one of only five country acts with multiple 5X Platinum hits (joining Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Sam Hunt and Taylor Swift). Brown first topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart with the release of his self-titled debut album (2016) and again with the release of Kane Brown Deluxe Edition (2017), which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums and Top 5 on Billboard 200.

With his debut album, Brown made history by becoming the first artist to top all five Billboard Country Charts with his breakthrough #1 Top Country Album; #1 debuting Country Digital Song, the 5X Platinum “Heaven” and #1 Country Airplay, Hot Country Song and Country Streaming Song, the 5X Platinum “What Ifs.” For more on Kane Brown, visit KaneBrownMusic.com.

About Packages From Home
Packages From Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded by an Army mom after she realized that her son was the only soldier in his unit receiving care packages and letters from home. Today, Packages From Home serves active duty U.S. military members from all branches who are stationed or deployed overseas, as well as homeless, transitioning, and at-risk veterans by providing them with requested food, hygiene, and entertainment items to boost morale and quality of life. Since 2004, Packages From Home has shipped more than 115,000 care packages and 282,000 lbs. of bulk supplies overseas, provided more than 66,000 lbs. of food and personal care items to homeless veterans, and served over 575,000 individual servicemembers. In 2020, in partnership with The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project, and in service of the “Homesick (Veterans Version)” track, Packages From Home will expand its distribution network beyond the military to also include other American heroes such as frontline workers, essential workers and healthcare workers.

About Minority Veterans of America 
Minority Veterans of America (MVA) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that was designed to create belonging and advance equity for underrepresented veterans, such as women, people of color, LGBTQ, and religious minorities. The organization aims to transform the narrative of the American veteran by building an interconnected community, fostering greater understanding of our memberships’ identities, and serving minority veterans through the development of targeted programming and advocacy. For more information, visit www.minorityvets.org.
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The Bachelor’s Colton Underwood Has Tested Positive For Coronavirus

Colton Underwood, 28, of “The Bachelor”, “Bachelor In Paradise”, and “The Bachelorette” just announced via his Instagram that he has tested positive for coronavirus.

Instagram will load in the frontend.

Everyone needs to understand that this virus can infect anyone. I have heard so many people who don’t think it could possibly effect them or say it is “just a cold”, “only affects the weak”, “affects the elderly”, etc. So many people thinking they are somehow immune because not falling into the high risk category. He is in top physical shape, works out, only 28 years old, and no pre-existing medical conditions. This is serious. No one is immune. We must all be cautious at this time.

I am so glad that he used his large platform to share this with others to try educate people that this is a virus that no one is immune to.

I wish the best to Colton. I hope he makes a full recovery. Thoughts and prayers sent his way.

Please everyone heed the advice of the CDC, doctors, and experts with thorough handwashing, social distancing, quaratining yourselves, and only going out if it is an absolute necessity.

About coronavirus:

People may be sick with the virus for 1 to 14 days before developing symptoms. The most common symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. More rarely, the disease can be serious and even fatal. Older people, and people with other medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), may be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill.


People may experience:

cough

fever

tiredness

difficulty breathing (severe cases)

For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for advice. Source: World Health Organization

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My First Professional Soccer Game Experience With Captain Morgan And Nashville SC

This past Saturday night I was invited by sponsor Captain Morgan to enjoy the season opening of Nashville SC vs. Atlanta United FC with them. It was also their first game held at Nissan Stadium.

First, let me be completely honest, I am not a big sports fan. I’ve attended many sporting events in my lifetime, but I end up socializing with whomever I am with more than watching the actual game. This goes back to my high school days spent in the marching band when I was required to be at every football game, yet rarely knew who even won. What can I say, I’m a little ADD and easily distracted! ha

Despite it being cold out, it was a nice, clear evening. I thoroughly enjoyed the fun tailgate party prior to the game with the folks at Captain Morgan. They really did it up right with their area that included photo ops in a fun swing area, games, an actual pirate posing for pictures, and serving some tasty rum. Your choice since left it up to the customer to add their mixer to the rum or not, plus a choice of fruit slices to add. I went full on pineapple with my rum along with a pineapple slice.

The fun did not end there, as the night was just beginning as we made our way to their suite on the top floor of the stadium. Not only did I enjoy the best, most comfortable seat in the house, in my opinion, to watch the game, but we were treated to a nice spread of tasty food that included sandwiches, hot dogs, hot wings, and sausage with sauerkraut. Plenty of vegetables and snacks to much on throughout the game, too. They were also so kind to send me an official Nashville SC t-shirt and my own bottle of Captain Morgan Spiced Rum to enjoy anytime I want that arrived at my doorstep a few hours before the game. What a treat!

Nashville SC is partnering with Captain Morgan for the 2020 Major League Soccer season including Inter Miami CF, Los Angeles FC, Minnesota United joining existing partners D.C. United, New York City FC, Philadelphia Union and Seattle Sounders FC as partners of the official spiced rum of MLS. 

“We couldn’t be more pleased about being in partnership with such a globally recognized drinks brand as Captain Morgan,” said Nashville SC CEO Ian Ayre. “Their activations in MLS to date mirror the energy, tribalism and fun elements, that we aim to create around our games and our club. We have talked a lot about creating a uniquely Nashville culture, and about our games being a festival of soccer. Having a brand like Captain Morgan in the heart of all of that is a fantastic win for both of us.”

Later in the season, limited-edition Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum bottles featuring the club’s colors and crest will be available for purchase, so look for those to come soon.

I thoroughly enjoyed the game with the nice folks at Captain Morgan and hope to get the opportunity to attend again. I think I am becoming a bit of a soccer fan now. I love that Nashville has another professional sports franchise to enjoy. The city seems to really be embracing the new soccer team since despite cold temperatures, the stadium was close to being full. I think as temperatures warm up, they’ll be even more fans. There were definitely a lot of diehards with their drums and chants. I loved the energy! I highly-recommend buying a ticket, which are reasonably-priced, and checking out a game very soon.

Thank you so much for inviting me, Captain Morgan! I had a great time, plus love my t-shirt and your always tasty rum.

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