Earth Day Expo Outshines Stormy Weather

A sacred drumming and sage-burning tribute to Mother Earth, led by acclaimed women’s advocate Sierra Bender, transformed the lobby of Stonehenge's Ritz Plaza luxury rentals into a welcome refuge from the rain Sunday. Residents coming in and out of the Midtown high-rise were pleasantly surprised by positive energy on tap during the 2012 Earth Day Expo hosted by Natural Awakenings Magazine.

The free event was open to the public, and provided good food, music and vibes from its 11 a.m. start through finish. Children's entertainment included storytelling, juggling and face painting. Even X96.3 radio personalities Lulu and LaLa of the Luis Jimenez Show joined the Earth Day festivities. And, everyone welcomed the high-octane, live performances by world roots band Brown Rice Family, New Yorker Social Dance Club, Denitia Odigie and DJ Cocody.

This year’s Earth Day Expo with Stonehenge was a first of its kind for Natural Awakenings Magazine, and part of a unique wellness series that offers a platform to support and promote healthier lifestyles. Natural Awakenings and Stonehenge Properties have launched the initiative encouraging a more holistic approach to living in Manhattan by bridging the gap between Stonehenge residents and the communities where they live.

Many attending the Sunday’s event said initially they weren’t quite sure what to expect but appreciated all the effort. Dozens of participating vendors were happy to answer questions and share useful information on an array of health and wellness products or services. Among those at the Expo: Stonehenge Partners, Serving Those Who Serve, Hip Hop Saves Lives, Mauricio Hair Salon, Olivia Rose Cosmetics, AngelRox, Mushana, Natural Health Care, Doctors at Trump Place, Patients Medical, Simplicity Health Associates, D’Adamo Personalized Nutrition, EastGate Acupuncture, Brain Balance Centers, Heart Juice, Yor Health, Team Northrup, Dr. Michael Wayne, Namaste Bookshop, Amber Tawn, Dancing Moon Furniture, Tuckaroo, Rooware, Wendy Walk (for finding a cure for Liposarcoma), Frost Valley YMCA, The L.O.V.E. (Local Organic Vegan Eatery) and Mama's Planet Earth author & illustrator.