Posts tagged with "Manhattan"

William Anthony Allen – Harlem’s Renaissance

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Earlier this month, 360 had the opportunity to sit down with the award-winning community activist William Anthony Allen. After many years of serving Harlem as a community leader and on the District Council, Allen is exploring the possibility of running for City Council serving the 9th District.

Harlem has long been a beacon of Black culture, community, and heritage since the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, the Harlem that William Anthony Allen knew was one of unity, familiarity, and freedom. According to Allen, “Crack cocaine came and killed all that. It stopped people from going to the community. It created mistrust. It changed how people participated politically and how they saw themselves. A great number of the working class and middle class of Harlem began to look at other options.” Allen describes his childhood in Harlem as poor but centered in the community, “people were so loving like they were aunts and uncles, but they really were not a blood relationship. The way they treated you, felt like family.” He watched as crack cocaine and the crisis to follow attacked the infrastructure of Harlem and divided the community, giving way to gentrification. “Black people don’t own the businesses in their own neighborhood anymore and young people say that can’t afford to come back to Harlem,” he says. Allen has completed housing and community development efforts in New York, as well as health care and social services proposals on a local, state and federal level. His efforts have always been lead by a desire to uplift the community and uphold the “great legacy” of Harlem, “particularly for African Americans.”

But what are his plans? How does Allen intend to use his experience in the community to serve them at a City Council level? He told 360 he would begin by “sitting down with parent leaders, senior citizen leaders, youth leaders, and really talk about mapping it out in terms of how do they see the future of this community, what do they want from it, and make that the blueprint.” He calls for the people of Harlem to define their own community and make their own decisions, with himself as a representative of their interests. “I’m going to be fighting very hard to address the housing inequities and disparities, helping to lower the cost of housing,” he told 360, “making sure that folks that really want to make a contribution to the life of this city can afford to be here.”

Allen lamented that a particular program that had been around for nearly fifty years, the Addicts Rehabilitation Center (ARC), has closed, “without those services, gentrification moves us all out.” Allen is fighting to get these programs reestablished, but he specifies that black and brown people should be running these programs for the community, “I want to make sure that the people that are running the program are culturally correct.”

In his youth, William Anthony Allen attended Fordham University in the Bronx where he was the first non-white person to serve as Vice President of the Student Council. Later, he transferred to CUNY where he was the Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper. Now, he is the founding member of a local charter elementary school. He recognizes that education is of the utmost importance. In City Council, Allen plans to create a network through Historically Black Colleges. “We need to make learning and knowledge sexy,” he says, so everyone, regardless of there circumstance can step up and participate in the betterment of their community.” Of his current efforts, he says, “I’m organizing a network of black influencers to address crisis issues that affect black people across the country.” These crisis issues include police relations, employment discrimination, gentrification, and inadequate schools.

For himself, Allen’s goal is, in his own words, “to be known as the guy who brings everybody together to have dialogue and then create action.” He says to not only the Black community but to the youth of Harlem and the LGBTQ+ community, “Tell me how I can support you to have a strong voice.”

“Harlem represents a great legacy, particularly for African Americans. And our entry, not only here into the city but what we have done for the nation,” says Allen, “We need to leverage that.”

Super Model Simonetta Lein Opens NYFW Show For Fashion Designer Stevie Boi

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Super Model Simonetta Lein Opens NYFW Show For Fashion Designer Stevie Boi

1) From your viewpoint what was it like walking for famous designer Stevie Boi?

“It was like being home. Many people reach out to me and they are always very surprised when I talk to them with no problem. They think that because I have been named as one of the top 5 in the world I should be unapproachable. I firmly believe that the more you grow the more you should stay humble, and thank every blessing you receive. Stevie has my same philosophy. He is a very talented man who put together a professional yet kind team. That to me is synonymous of real success.”

2) How was the event different from anything you’ve ever done?

“I had many stylists dedicated to me and what I loved is that they were constantly asking me if I felt good in my outfit or I needed to change something. I truly felt that it was Stevie’s special touch and heart. Also it was the first time I got to open a NYFW show. That special feeling of butterflies in my stomach was different, as I felt responsible for the good start of the show. It was a good feeling and also tested me, I feel even stronger now.

3) What kind of vibe did the event hold?

It was an urban grunge type of vibe. My makeup and hair were different from anything else I have ever done and as a model that made me happy, as I could experiment with something different. It was artistic yet contemporary, which I appreciated.

4) As an influencer and trendsetter what did you think of his collection?

I think it was futuristic yet sellable, which is something very important for an artist and a designer. His silver touch and plastic inserts made it very particular and bold, and mixed with fashion staples as jackets, mini skirts, jeans, created an ensemble of clothes that urban people can wear to be seen yet be comfortable and edgy. I also appreciated him being inclusive with a mom with a baby, different sizes shapes and colors of models which represents the world of today.

5) What was your take on New York fashion week this year?

Knits are the new normal. Volume and movement. Plaid is back, as we have seen in my outfit. Everyone is going sustainable. I have been advocating for that for a while now and it is so great to see it happening on the runways.

6) What was your opinion of the outfit you walked in?

I would definitely wear it for an event or a day of work in the city. Perfect to be elegant but different. A retro style with plaid pattern with irregular fringes, a mini skirt and a top that made me feel so cute and feminine.

7) What was the highlight of the event from your point of view?

The show itself was really well done, and that is the major highlight. I think sometimes in fashion we look for too many external components and we forget the basics. A well organized performance leaves the public and buyers happy. He also had performers and a very cool graphic. When I got into my moment and walked for him and I saw the entire room surrounded by waves moving on the wall I thought: this is nothing but the great Stevie Boi.

Pictures on the runway by DWSNAPSHOT

Other pictures by Nicole Tienken

Rideshare Rooftop Ads

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Today more than 80 members of the Independent Drivers Guild descended on City Hall to call for the city to reverse its ban on rooftop advertising for for-hire vehicles. The Guild testified at a City Council Transportation Committee hearing in favor of City Council bill Intro 1738, sponsored by Transportation Committee Chair Ydanis Rodriguez, which would allow for-hire vehicle drivers to earn much-needed extra pay through rooftop advertising.

Exterior roof-top advertising opportunities are currently only afforded to medallion owners, but not FHV owner-operators, including drivers for app-based and livery services. Drivers can earn as much as $300 per month and $3600 per year through rooftop advertising without driving extra hours and adding to congestion. Intro 1738 is the first of a handful of bills in the works to address the demands and concerns raised in IDG’s Drivers’ Bill of Rights, which has the support of more than nine thousand drivers so far.

“For years, drivers have been struggling to make ends meet. Rooftop advertisements are an easy way for drivers to supplement their income without having to drive longer hours and add to congestion,” said IDG executive director Brendan Sexton. “In the life of an Uber or Lyft driver, an extra $300 per month can mean the difference between being able to afford health insurance or not. It can cover a month’s worth of fuel expenses or after school child care.”

“We are thankful to Chairman Ydanis Rodriguez and Members of the City
Council Transportation Committee for listening to drivers and we urge the Council to support this bill as an important step to provide immediate and much-needed relief to drivers,” added Sexton. “We are also pleased that the Taxi and Limousine Commission today voiced support for rooftop ads with the amendment we have urged which would require that ad revenue goes to drivers, rather than Uber or Lyft, leasing companies, or big fleet owners, as has occurred in the taxi industry.”

The IDG led a years-long campaign to win the nation’s first minimum wage for app-based drivers in New York City at a rate of $27.86 per hour, however app companies violated these rules and city regulators failed to take enforcement action. In response, more than 100 IDG members unveiled the Drivers’ Bill of Rights at City Hall this past fall, calling for the city to address concerns affecting drivers’ livelihoods. A week later, thousands of IDG members temporarily closed down the Brooklyn Bridge and the FDR in protest and in response to the city’s TLC ignoring Uber and Lyft’s violation of the City’s own minimum pay law. Now more than nine thousand drivers have signed on to the Guild’s Drivers’ Bill of Rights. Members of the Transportation Committee responded and have told the Guild they are working on a number of bills addressing the issues raised in the Drivers’ Bill of Rights. Today marks the first hearing addressing one of these issues and what the Guild hopes is the first of several bills to come before the committee to provide relief to struggling drivers.

Here is IDG’s prepared testimony for today’s hearing:

Testimony of Brendan Sexton, Executive Director
Independent Drivers Guild (IDG)
Before the City Council Committee on Transportation
January 22, 2020

Good morning Chairman Rodriguez, members of the Transportation Committee. My name is Brendan Sexton and I am the Executive Director of the Independent Drivers Guild, otherwise known as IDG. We are here to wholeheartedly support Intro 1738.

Joining me today on this panel are some drivers who will help me tell our story — the story of how app-based drivers who, despite the reforms passed by this Council and despite what TLC claims, continue to struggle to make a fair and livable wage. (and I’d also like to acknowledge the IDG members drivers who have joined us here today in the audience) As we explained to this Committee back in September, the minimum pay rules are failing to meet their intended goal as Uber and Lyft continue to circumvent the rules and the TLC continues to ignore our pleas for assistance and enforcement.

More than 100 IDG members came before you that day to seek your help as we rolled out our Drivers Bill of Rights to address these and other concerns affecting drivers’ livelihoods. A week later, thousands of our members temporarily closed down the Brooklyn Bridge and the FDR in protest and in response to TLC ignoring Uber and Lyft’s blatant violation of this City Council’s own minimum pay law. I am pleased to know that the City Council, and especially the Members of this Committee, have heard our pleas and a number of bills addressing the issues raised in our Drivers’ Bill of Rights are in the works. Today marks the first hearing addressing one of these bills and what we hope is the first of several bills to come before this committee to provide immediate and much-needed relief to drivers.

As many members of this Committee know through our discussions over the last few months, we believe Intro 1738 is a very important measure that would provide app-based and livery drivers with an opportunity to supplement their income from driving. This is money that will go directly into the pocket of FHV owner-operators – not base owners, not Uber, not Lyft.

This legislation would require that the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) issue permits to allow for exterior rooftop advertising on any type of for-hire vehicle, provided such advertising complies with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Exterior roof-top advertising opportunities are currently only afforded to medallion owners, but not FHV owner-operators. This bill would provide for parity, equality, andNa significant step in the fight for the fair treatment of these hard-working New Yorkers.

We were all dumbfounded when, in August of 2019, TLC took away this ability — and only from FHV drivers. Given the continuing struggles FHV drivers continue to go through, this just added insult to injury.

Intro 1738 corrects this injustice by affording FHV drivers the opportunity to contract with TLC approved advertising companies for digital rooftop advertising and earn $300 per month/$3600 per year in
supplemental income. As you will hear from the drivers themselves, this additional income can and will make a big difference in the lives of FHV drivers as it can cover any number of expenses, such as health insurance, which is not provided by the app-based companies, a months’ worth of healthy groceries (according to the USDA), or 100% of a driver’s monthly fuel expenses.

It is also important to note that this opportunity to earn additional income comes without any obligation to spend additional hours on the road and, as a result, will not increase congestion. It will also allow hardworking drivers to bring home the same income while spending less time on the road and more time with their families.

All that being said, we also want to ensure there are additional driver protections built into this legislation to ensure that it is the drivers who benefit from this opportunity, not the app companies, not leasing companies and fleet owners. ALL drivers must be afforded this opportunity without undue interference from the exploitative nature of app-based or leasing companies. While 80% of our industry’s drivers own their own cars, 20% do lease. And as you all know, our industry’s drivers have major issues with predatory leasing companies. (and we have been talking with Council Member Moya about his leasing legislation). Therefore, while this legislation as currently drafted will definitely benefit a majority of our drivers, we are less certain, given the leasing industries tendency to take advantage of our drivers, about the rest.

We would like to see an amendment to Intro 1738 that provides TLC with the regulatory authority to ensure drivers are protected and not further exploited by preventing leasing companies as well as the app companies from either requiring or prohibiting drivers from obtaining rooftop advertising and ensure that any and all revenue derived from such advertising goes directly and fully to the driver at a fair and mutually agreeable rate.

In speaking with some of you on this Committee, another concern has been raised that I would like to address. We have spoken to a major rooftop advertising company (who we understand will be testifying here today) who currently provides exterior rooftop advertising to the taxi industry and it is very clear: the existing benefits to the taxi industry from digital rooftop advertising will not be diminished or diluted by this bill in any way. To the contrary, if advertisers and drivers are able to deploy rooftop advertising on both taxicabs and FHVs, the advertising coverage to advertisers would be expanded within the city, and rooftop advertising becomes more attractive to advertisers and ultimately becomes more sustainable for all vehicle classes.

For the past few months, our team has engaged numerous council members on this and other pressing issues, and I’d like to thank Chairman Rodriguez for spearheading the effort to introduce this bill. I’d also like to take a moment to thank those of you who have chosen to stand with IDG, our drivers and working-class New Yorkers by sponsoring and supporting this bill – it’s clear that you all truly understand just how important this income will be for drivers and their families. Your care is also demonstrated by the other issues on the agenda today–with regard to legislation that would create a Black Car and Livery Task force, we applaud any efforts that would assist with the viability of this industry and help our brother and sister black car and livery drivers. We would only recommend that the legislation be amended to provide for driver and/or driver labor organization representation on the task force.

It’s important to note that Intro 1738, which is related to exterior advertising, is very different from the internal panel advertising legislation. The policy question regarding internal panels entails different considerations that have been the subject of litigation, and although IDG supports any effort to provide increased opportunities to supplement FHV driver income, we believe these issues should be separated. The exterior advertising legislation already has broad support within this committee and we want to ensure that the support that we have worked to secure is in no way jeopardized by an unrelated piece of legislation.

In closing, I want to thank the Committee for all the work you have done and all we have accomplished together over the last few years in providing relief to 80,000 working families – specifically the approval of landmark driver income and transparency legislation in 2018. And while this has provided some needed relief, the TLC’s resulting regulations and their lack of enforcement has caused some real problems whereby the full intent and goal of this legislation has still yet to be realized.

More work needs to be done, but Intro 1738 is an important and significant first step and FHV drivers need to know that this committee, that the City Council is listening and doing all they can do
to help.

NORDSTROM NYC FLAGSHIP

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By Armon Hayes × Vaughn Lowery

Co-President, Pete Nordstrom, along side of corporate partners hosted a tour for retailer’s newly largest single project investment in their history. On Oct 24th, Nordstrom will launch its first flagship in Manhattan since the 1920s. An exclusive onestop shop adjacent to the Nordstrom Men’s store located on West 57th street & Broadway. The seven-level flagship store, designed in collaboration with James Carpenter Design Associates, forms in the base of the ‘tallest residential building in the Western Hemisphere.’ With 320,000 square feet, it will embody an experience which is responsive and reflective of its customers. After all, a great design encourages people to stay longer and shop more. And, with 19-foot ceilings, it’s an open canvas for an interchangeable yet flexible floor plan.

The new floor plan allows for discovery, with range to explore and transition through brands freely that they haven’t experienced before. The infrastructure is designed to funnel natural light through transparency with floor to ceiling glass, intertwining the shopping experience to the city’s skyline. The atrium possesses a waveform glass façade which allows for interaction from customers inside and out. Chain-mail veils and lighting installations lend character to the location, reflecting the city’s cultural events as well as major holidays.

“A rapidly growing younger consumer who’s engaged has emerged,” asserts Pete Nordstrom. Instinctively creating a new culture and how we shop that’s relevant to life experiences. Today one-third of sales are e-commerce, which represents 30% of Nordstrom’s business.

For over 100 years, the retailer has stood the test of time. The climate of brick and mortar for many retailers have shrunk and/or has become nonexistent. Nordstrom understands as their customer evolves, their level of service and retail atmosphere should be elevated as well. Using technology and innovation, the new store’s communication system will allow employees to order beverages and/or garments throughout the location.

In addition, customers will have access to 24/7 buy online & pickup, in-store personal stylists and tailoring while you wait. The Vice President of Creative Projects, Olivia Kim, has fabricated initiatives like Pop-In@ Nordstrom – an exclusive space for emerging designers. Merchandising will include a curated depth of products (clothing, accessories, shoes, beauty, children’s, home etc) across price points.

Lastly, there will be 7 food and beverage options with 4 full-service restaurants, 2 bars and an innovative, gluten-free doughnut stand:

¤ Shoe Bar will feature handcrafted cocktails, speciality coffee drinks and a selection of small plates.

¤ 2 restaurants are in collaboration with Chef Tom Douglas.

¤ 1 restaurant is in collaboration with Chef Ethan Stowell.

For a mega metropolis that’s often explored while on foot, this fashion marquee’s newest residence seems to be long overdue.

Lokal Eatery & Bar

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By Vaughn Lowery

Jersey City officially opened up one of the swankiest restaurants on their waterfront with magnificent views of Manhattan. Mona Panjwani is the proprietor and visionary of this establishment. After 12 days of having their doors opened, they have built a team of individuals who are personable, approachable and possess a strong sense of ownership. Literally a recipe for prosperity.

With sufficient space, Lokal Eatery & Bar can comfortably sit up to 200 customers and is the perfect destination for a rehearsal dinner, trunk show, celebratory engagement and/or corporate gathering. Towards the rear, there’s a semi-private area with its own seating, lounge and sound system to drown out the clutter of what’s taken place in the main arena. “Lokal” murals, perfect for social engagement, are sprinkled throughout the spot which were constructed by a local commissioned artist. Adding an element of youth and elegance similar to its milieu. Overall the architecture and intent of this eclectic eatery have an industrial yet modern feel. Iron gates frame the bar and above the 30-foot island hangs a custom lighting installation.

Nestled in the heart of a rising luxury neighborhood within JC, this venue is destined to become one of the area’s most popular draws. Executive Chef, Walter Donadio, has managed to fabricate a tantalizing menu of appetizers, small plates and entrees which are certain to keep you coming back. Some of his best infused tapas and items include succulent scallops, rock shrimp, sauteed mushroom bowls as well as a vegan surf and turf packed with savory lentils. Most of their components are locally sourced and fresh from the Garden State – right down to the blueberries featured in some of their signature drinks.

Often times, you inflict a new place and the waitstaff is uncertain on what to recommend. That’s not the case for Lokal. Many of their squad members were well-informed on what they offer and even had ample recommendations for their handcrafted cocktails. Our favorites were their Elliott Stubb (reminiscent of an old fashioned) and Jerry Thomas – cucumber water iced cubes make this drink refreshing.

The future is bright for Lokal Eatery & Bar. And, with a strong location, menu and bar, it’s set to be one of the most prestigious brunch/dinner spots for global foodies, making it a firm contender for three Michelin stars and a James Beard Award. Subsequently, it’s extremely apparent that Mona and her crew are meticulous and pay close attention to details.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

*Brunch is Saturday & Sunday from 11am-3pm. A perfect place to relax and kick back with friends as well as family before the week starts. If you eat meat, be sure to try the lamb burger. The Bloody Mary and Margarita are sure to get almost any party started.

**Happy Hour is daily from 5-7pm.

ABOUT TEAM LOKAL:

CHEF: Walter Donadio will serve as Lokal’s Executive Chef.

Donadio is a Michelin star kitchen trained chef with over 17 years of versatile culinary professional experience managing the provisions of fine dining for hotels, restaurants and country clubs. His experience spans the globe from various chef positions at Richy’s DMCC and Café Habana in Dubai to The Smith, Nobu Fifty Seven, Le Circ and Brasserie in New York, along with supervising kitchens at Hilton and Marriott in New Jersey. Passionate about food since growing up in his grandmother’s own restaurant, he loves combinations of flavors from different cuisines and is always searching for the perfect balance. He is a graduate from the French Culinary Institute (now International Culinary Center).

OWNER: Mona Panjwani

Panjwani opens Lokal as an events industry vet in the Northern New Jersey region. She launched an events production company in 2014 and came across the idea to create Lokal more recently while seeking a venue for her own company. The gorgeous waterfront eatery in Jersey City – which will primarily serve as a full service restaurant and bar is also complete with event and private dining spaces – combines all of Panjwani’s skills, passion, experience and goals into one. Panjwani is a member of the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce, Hudson County Women Rising and LadyDrinks South Asian Women Entrepreneurs Networking Professionals. She has been a Jersey City resident for a decade.

ARCHITECT: Abraham John ARCHITECTS

A multidisciplinary architecture, interior design, landscaping and urban planning firm founded in 1967. Abraham John & Alan Abraham are the Joint Principal Architects of Abraham John Architects. Abraham John Architects’ design approach is to re-connect architecture with nature, make optimum use of space, natural materials, lighting & landscape to reinvent and transform living environments and urban spaces. The firm works at multiple scales and with various organizations right from private clients to corporates & NGOs allowing itself to experiment and diversify its work.

LOCATION: Crystal Point Condos

2 2nd St, Jersey City, New Jersey, 07302

PHONE: +1 201-222-6800

Introducing G-STEEL

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By Vaughn Lowery × Armon Hayes

As of late, we got to tally out the all new G-STEEL while having sips and getting our hair as well as our beards trimmed at Blind Barber in Manhattan’s Alphabet City. The new GSTB100G-2A models feature Bluetooth connectivity and can link up to the G-SHOCK app for accurate time and record keeping. This is one of the best models within their roster as this timepiece can easily travel from the office to the gym as well as the club. This stainless steel accessory possesses a double layer bezel and carbon fiber enclosures which make it sleek yet sporty. In addition to this unit being intuitive with various app settings, it’s water, shock resistant and solar powered. If you’re in the marketplace for a high quality product that’s durable yet upscale then this is the perfect arm candy. At $380 USD, our choice would be the navy with rose gold accents to add a dab of European style and magnificence.

About G-SHOCK
CASIO’s shock-resistant G-SHOCK watch is synonymous with toughness, born from the developer Mr. Ibe’s dream of ‘creating a watch that never breaks’. Over 200 handmade samples were created and tested to destruction until finally in 1983 the first, now iconic G-SHOCK hit the streets of Japan and began to establish itself as ‘the toughest watch of all time’. Each watch encompasses the 7 elements; electric shock resistance, gravity resistance, low temperature resistance, vibration resistance, water resistance, shock resistance and toughness. The watch is packed with Casio innovations and technologies to prevent it from suffering direct shock; this includes internal components protected with urethane and suspended timekeeping modules inside the watch structure. Since its launch, G-SHOCK has continued to evolve, continuing to support on Mr. Ibe’s mantra “never, never give up.” www.gshock.com.

About Blind Barber
Daytime haircuts & drinks in the front room morph into a lively back-room cocktail bar at night.

Uber/Lyft Drivers Shutdown Rush Hour Traffic in NYC

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On Tuesday morning thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers with the Independent Drivers Guild led a slow vehicle procession over the Brooklyn Bridge and up to Gracie Mansion to call for the Mayor and City Council’s help in response to new app changes from Uber and Lyft in New York City that will harm drivers’ ability to make a living. Approximately 6,000 drivers participated in the action which slowed rush hour traffic to a near stand still in a procession that stretched across the city at times covering the full length from the Brooklyn Bridge up FDR Drive to Gracie Mansion.

Starting on Tuesday Uber launched new policies to kick drivers off the apps between trips and in areas of lower demand in order to avoid paying drivers as required by New York City’s pay regulations. Lyft enacted a similar policy earlier this summer to protests from the Drivers Guild. The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission has failed to take action, so the Drivers Guild is calling for the Mayor and City Council to stop the apps from violating the pay rules in an attempt to scam drivers out of fair pay. The Guild, a Machinists Union affiliate representing and advocating for New York’s 80,000 app-based drivers, led a two year campaign to win the nation’s first minimum pay rate for Uber and Lyft drivers. Rules which the apps are now violating.

“Uber and Lyft are flouting New York City’s driver pay rules to avoid paying drivers what they have earned and the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission has done nothing to stop them. Today drivers are saying: We will not be ignored. We are calling on the Mayor and City Council to step in and help us fight back against the app companies. More than 1,000 Uber and Lyft drivers logged off the apps to take part in a procession over the Brooklyn Bridge and through Manhattan to Gracie Mansion today to protest the app companies and demand action from the city,” said Brendan Sexton, Executive Director of the IDG, a Machinists Union affiliate which represents and advocates for more than 80,000 app based drivers in NYC. “For months we warned that if the city failed to take enforcement action against Lyft for violating the pay rules, that the other apps would follow suit and drivers’ pay would suffer. Already thousands of drivers are struggling to pay their bills because Lyft is blocking them from the app.

Now with Uber following suit more than 80,000 New York City families will pay the price if the city refuses to stand up for drivers and crackdown on the app companies.” Council Member Brad Lander who sponsored the law requiring a minimum pay rate for Uber and Lyft drivers has also spoken out against the app companies’ actions and voiced his support for the drivers today. “Kicking drivers off the app between rides and controlling where and when drivers can work directly undermines Uber and Lyft’s pretense of employing independent contractors who set their own hours. Far from providing flexible work schedules and a solution to transit deserts, Uber and Lyft are forcing drivers to avoid serving low-income outer boroughs and limiting their ability to make a living wage, in violation of the spirit of NYC Council’s ground-breaking legislation to guarantee for-hire drivers a minimum hourly wage.

These are the same companies that have been arguing that they don’t control their drivers’ work and it isn’t central to their business model. Uber and Lyft can’t have it both ways. Either recognize drivers as employees entitled to minimum wage, overtime pay, health insurance and all the rights that entails, or follow the law we passed to ensure that drivers make a fair wage,” said Council member Brad Lander.

Today’s protest shows growing driver anger at the app companies and the city’s failure to protect driver pay. Just last week more than 100 IDG members gathered at CIty Hall to call for the city to abolish the TLC due to its failure to stand up for drivers, including on this issue of enforcing the pay rules. The Guild also called for the city to pass a Drivers’ Bill of Rights, which specifically included blocking apps from trying to get around the pay rules.

Further Background:

For months Lyft has been kicking New York City drivers off the app to avoid paying them and the Independent Drivers Guild has been calling on the city to take aggressive enforcement action, warning that without enforcement other apps may follow suit. On Friday, just days after more than 100 IDG members rallied at City Hall calling for action, Uber announced in an email to drivers that it would indeed begin the same practice to flout the city’s pay rules on Tuesday.

In June, the Guild wrote a letter to the City’s Taxi and Limousine Commission calling for enforcement on this issue and drivers testified to this issue in July calling attention to the fact that Lyft was using this policy to further enrich the company by giving preferential access to drivers who pay them upwards of $400 per week to rent a vehicle from Lyft’s Express Drive program. However, the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission failed to act and failed to include any further regulatory guidance during its summer rule making, despite having the clear opportunity to do so.

TONIGHT Wednesday September 18th: Members of Living Colour, Blues Brothers, Ringo Starr and Billy Joel’s Band Perform For Jimi Hendrix Birthday at Felicia’s Jukebox LIVE at The Cutting Room

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This Special Wednesday Night Jam Session Has Become the New Hot Spot for a Gathering of Famed Musicians, Actors and Influencers Each Week – Open to All!

CONFIRMED FOR TONIGHT: Felicia Collins of CBS Orchestra, Vernon Reid and Corey Glover from Living Color, Mark Rivera from The Billy Joel Band/Ringo Starr Band, Lee Finkelstein of The Blues Brothers Band, Shannon Conley, Danny Keane, Militia Vox, Queen V, Sophia Ramos, Jann Klose, Frank Gilchrest, Alec Shantzis, Bruce Edwards, Frank Gravis, Scott Yahaney and WHO KNOWS WHO ELSE WILL STOP BY…

Could be Comedian Bill Burr – drums, Paul Shaffer, Bill Murray, Chris Noth, Ben Vereen, Valerie Simpson, Julio Fernandez, Ilene Kristen, Dave Stewart, Comedy Central’s Wali Collins or others!

New York City has always had its share of hip performance rooms where on any given night you may end up rubbing shoulders with legends of music and film. Normally you have to be “in the know” to find these spots, and lately the landscape has been barren in this respect in general. Now, Felicia’s Jukebox LIVE has taken the torch and started the fire blazing again; creating an all star community jam which is truly open to all – happening every Wednesday night starting at 10:30pm at the legendary The Cutting Room 44 E 32nd St. New York, NY, 10016. www.thecuttingroomnyc.com

Famous Musicians and Actors have been stopping down regularly, jumping up on stage to jam with other stars and local musicians alike in support of one of their own – professional musician and former vocalist/guitarist for the CBS Orchestra on The Late Show with David Letterman, Felicia Collins.

This week, they celebrate the birthday of arguably one of the best guitarists ever to strap one on, Jimi Hendrix – with a night of Hendrix songs performed by Felicia alongside Vernon Reid and Corey Glover from Living Color, Mark Rivera from The Billy Joel Band/Ringo Starr Band, Lee Finkelstein of The Blues Brothers Band, Shannon Conley, Danny Keane, Militia Vox, Queen V, Sophia Ramos, Jann Klose, Frank Gilchrest, Alec Shantzis, Bruce Edwards, Frank Gravis, Scott Yahaney and others, including local artists without a big name – yet! Come see tomorrow’s stars today performing alongside established musical artists (and actors who like to dabble in a little rock and roll) and immerse yourself in the culture of NYC entertainment.

Past guests to get up on stage with Felicia and her band The Throwdown:

Comedian Bill Burr – drums, Paul Shaffer, Bill Murray, Chris Noth, Ben Vereen, Valerie Simpson, Julio Fernandez, Ilene Kristen, Dave Stewart, Comedy Central’s Wali Collins to name a few. You really never know who will show up!

Prior to Late Show, Felicia was the lead guitarist and vocalist in Al Jarreau’s band and then a member of Cyndi Lauper’s band throughout her Hat Full Of Stars tour. As a member of Shaffer’s band, Felicia performed every year in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony and has shared the stage with the likes of 50 Cent, Allman Brothers, Aretha Franklin, Ashford And Simpson, Barry White, Ben Harper, Billy Joel, Billy Bob Thornton, Bon Jovi, Bonnie Raitt, Candy Staton, Carol Burnette, Carrie Underwood, Cee-Lo, Chaka Khan, Chuck Berry, Dan Fogerty, Darlene Love, David Fathead Newman, David Sanborne, Diana Ross, Donna Summer, Elton John, Elvis Costello, Emmy Lou Harris, Faith Evans, Faith Hill, Foo Fighters, George Benson, Glen Frey, Green Day, Harry Connick Jr., Kathleen Battle, L.L. Cool J., Megadeth, Metallica, Little Richard, L.L.Cool J., James Brown, Jay-Z, Jeff Beck, Jef Lee Johnson, Joanie Mitchell, Joan Jett, Joan Osborn, Joe Walsh, John Mayer, Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake, Kathleen Battle, Kris Kristofferson, Pharrell, Luther Vandross, GrandMaster Flash And The Furious Five, Martin Short, Liza Minelli, Luciano Pavorotti, Mary J. Blige, Martin Short, Marty Stuart, Narada Michael Walden, Nate Dog, Naughty By Nature, Ndea Davenport, N.E.R.D., Nile Rodgers, Nona Hendryx, Paul McCartney, Pete Townsend, Ray Benson, Ray Charles, Ringo Star, Rod Stewart, Salt N Pepa, Samuel L. Jackson, Jr., Siedah Garrett, Sheila E, Sheryl Crowe, Slash, Snoop Dogg, Spinners, Staple Singers, Stevie Winwood, Stevie Wonder, Temptations, Tina Turner, Tito Puente, Tom Jones, Tom Scott, Urge Overkill, Warren G, Warren Zevon, Weezer, The Wailers, Whitney Houston, Willie Nelson, Will Smith and so many more.

For more information on Felicia’s Jukebox and to get tickets, please visit: https://tickets.thecuttingroomnyc.com/e/felicia-s-jukebox-live-72536357197

For more information on The Cutting Room please visit: www.thecuttingroomnyc.com

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

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As of late, 360 Magazine attended a mixer held to mark the newly restored Bar Seine, Arabelle Restaurant and Spa Valmont at Hôtel Plaza Athénée.

By Armon Hayes × Vaughn Lowery

Since 1984, elite travelers and celebrities alike have referred to Hotel Plaza Athénée as their ‘home away from home.’ Nestled in Manhattan’s Upper East Side (in tight proximity to MOMA and the Central Park Zoo), it’s heavily revered for its decor and 5-star services. A tranquil treasure and best kept secret for over 30 years.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée sets the gold standard with it’s onsite dining – curated by Chef Oliver Keegan. The “Athénée sliders” are the perfect appetizer made with black angus, smeared with Sriracha mayo will make your taste buds tango.

After devouring our starters, we were whisked over to Bar Seine for handcrafted cocktails. A signature Gin Martini deeply infused with floral accents was dubbed as a “Hendrick Midsummer Solstice.” Splashed with cherry liqueur and garnished with edible flower buds, it was an effortless blend of both femininity and masculinity.

Shortly after, we stepped over to Spa Valmont. Stocked with Valmont cosmetics (which are exclusive to the property) for both men and women to topple the signs of aging alongside of therapeutic sessions which encompass natural resources from Switzerland.

In short, this 143-room stately accommodation comes with an array of suites and amenities which would be sure to enhance your stay while in NYC.

Book now.

NEO TOKYO

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CASIO G-SHOCK INTRODUCES ALL-NEW NEO TOKYO SERIES

Line-Up Includes 4 New Models with All-Black Bezels and Striking Color Accents

Today, Casio G-SHOCK announces the all-new, “Neo Tokyo” series of men’s timepieces. Inspired by the colors of the futuristic metropolises of classic anime films from the 1980’s, the four new watches boast blacked-out bezels with yellow, red, and blue hands as dial accents to represent the city’s lights.

The series is made up of G-SHOCK’s most popular digital and analog-digital models, featuring updated styles from the DW6900, GA140, GA700, and GAS100 line ups.

The GA140BMC-1A boasts a large case design reflective of the new GA140 series, with an updated dial that includes an analog speed indicator sub-dial and LCD displays at both 6 and 12 o’clock. Boasting an extra-large case is the GA700BMC-1A, which comes with a front-facing LED light button and 3D bold hands to provide ease of use from day to night. Arriving in a mid-size digital model, the DW6900BMC-1A comes in one of the original G-SHOCK case shapes and has a built-in multi-function alarm and flash alert.

As the fourth timepiece and part of the Tough Solar GAS100 collection, the GAS100BMC-1A comes with the line’s classic stainless steel bezel, showcasing a simple design that goes well with a wide range of fashion styles. The large case size and double Super LED light provides maximum visibility in low light conditions. A video has been created to showcase the features of the new Neo Tokyo series – watch here: http://bit.ly/NeoToyko.

In addition, the GAS100 timepiece comes equipped with Tough Solar self-charging capabilities, ensuring its longevity.

Each watch in the series also boasts G-SHOCK technology such as:

● Shock Resistance
● 200M Water Resistance
● Stopwatch

● Countdown Timer
● 12/24 Hr Time Formats

The DW6900, GA140, and GA700 models retail for $99 each, and the GAS100 model will retail for $150, and will be available for purchase starting this September at select G-SHOCK retailers including Macy’s, G-SHOCK Soho Store, and gshock.com.

About G-SHOCK

CASIO’s shock-resistant G-SHOCK watch is synonymous with toughness, born from the developer Mr. Ibe’s dream of ‘creating a watch that never breaks’. Over 200 handmade samples were created and tested to destruction until finally in 1983 the first, now iconic G-SHOCK hit the streets of Japan and began to establish itself as ‘the toughest watch of all time’. Each watch encompasses the 7 elements; electric shock resistance, gravity resistance, low temperature resistance, vibration resistance, water resistance, shock resistance and toughness. The watch is packed with Casio innovations and technologies to prevent it from suffering direct shock; this includes internal components protected with urethane and suspended timekeeping modules inside the watch structure. Since its launch, G-SHOCK has continued to evolve, continuing to support on Mr. Ibe’s mantra “never, never give up.” www.gshock.com/home

About Casio America, Inc.

Casio America, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Established in 1957, Casio America, Inc. markets calculators, keyboards, mobile presentation devices, disc title and label printers, watches, cash registers and other consumer electronic products. Casio has strived to realize its corporate creed of “creativity and contribution” through the introduction of innovative and imaginative products. For more information, visit www.casiousa.com/home.