With the impending TCS New York City Marathon, a long-distance run that sprawled all five boroughs of NYC and over 26.2 miles, New Balance decided to host an event to spotlight specific individuals that had signed up for the marathon, and with the help of New Balance, had taken their game and motivation to the next level. These individuals came from all walks of life and had varying levels of expertise running, and they therefore served as the perfect panelists to channel motivation and generate excitement for the upcoming event.
The event space itself was exuberant and lively, with a bar serving champagne, beer, and wine, and cater waiters walking around with hors d’oeuvres, such as spicy rigatoni vodka and vegetable dumplings. The surrounding walls were emblazoned with the words, “Run Your Way.”
The history of the 1080 sneaker
Along the back of the room was also a display of some of New Balance’s newest creations in terms of footwear, specifically focusing on the 1080 line. A visual diagram of the shoe’s history over 12 iterations was also displayed. I walked around and examined each one while trying a rice ball from the kitchen, and soon enough, the interview with the panelists was announced to begin soon.
Walking onto the stage first was Greydy Diaz, who would serve as the moderator and interviewer for the event. Her backstory was interesting because she had a natural connection with New Balance; she grew up extremely close to a New Balance factory, and could see first hand the impact that brought onto her community. Now, she works as a journalist, producer, and host of the show “Test Run”. She quieted the audience, introduced herself, and ushered in the individuals that would be interviewed.
Moderator Greydy Diaz
Jess Movold, Tommie Runz, Harry Hudson, and Marlon “Chito” Vera walked onto the stage, each person with their own special connection to New Balance and running, and each a participant in the upcoming marathon. Through the interview process, I was able to learn about what motivates each individual, and their unique stories that allowed them to discover running. Jess Movold is an elite runner that is focused on using running as a way to build a community for others, and connect newcomers to the sport. Working as an athlete, coach, creator, and journalist, she works to spread awareness about the benefits of running and make it as assessable as possible.
Tommie Runz used running as a way of coping with his struggles growing up in Detroit while battling addiction, sobriety, and fatherhood. He now works as a content creator and hosts his own Youtube series, which he uses to bring people together and maintain inclusivity, and also uses the platform to talk about his vulnerability and how running has helped him.
Harry Hudson is the most recent advocate of running from those on stage, having only started several months ago, but his story was no less powerful. He battled Hodgkin’s lymphoma early in his life, and as a musician, he used music and running to maintain his physical and mental health. He will be participating in the TCS marathon for the first time this year, and raising money for his charity.
Lastly was Marlon “Chito” Vera, an Ecuadorian UFC fighter who utilizes running to build mental and physical strength, by running thirteen miles each Sunday as part of his training. With this increasing his stamina in and out, he can stay more focused during fights and last much longer than his opponents. The most unlikely out of the panelists to be thought of as a runner, he demonstrated to us that anyone could run.
I truly felt inspired after hearing the panelists’ stories, and I began to reflect on my own workouts and how I may incorporate running to be a part of them. I have traditionally overlooked cardio exercises, but after learning about the overwhelming benefits to the heart, body, and mind, I decided that I would take the initiative to begin running.
Rapper Action Bronson gave a stellar live performance to end the night
I could not run in the TCS marathon this year, but I really want to do so next year, and this would only be possible after becoming comfortable with running. Of course, New Balance would be there with their amazing products along the way.
At the end of the night, we were greeted by a performance by Queens-based rapper Action Bronson and his band, who played a myriad of covers, original pieces, and Action Bronson’s own music. Donning New Balance 990s, his energy and care towards lyricism were truly a sight to behold. On the way out, New Balance employees were giving sneakers to all media attendees, much to my surprise. Internally acknowledging that I had no excuse to avoid running now, I added a reminder to my phone to go on a run the next day. I no longer felt threatened by the prospect, because after all, I would be running my way.
In the heart of Los Angeles, a city renowned for its glitz, glamour, and car culture, the red carpet premiere of “Drive with Swizz Beatz” unfolded in a celebration of community, passion, and the unyielding spirit of drive.
Rhymefest is a prominent musician, songwriter, and advocate who is currently serving as one of the Pritzker Fellows at The University of Chicago this semester.
During the holiday season, there are very few places more festive than the heart of Rockefeller Center. Between it’s iconic Christmas tree, dazzling ice skating rink, tons of shops, and close relation to the SAKS windows and their remarkable light show, spending a cozy winter evening there with a cup of hot cocoa is surely a bucket list item for many.
As if the renowned location wasn’t festive enough, it just got even jollier, with it’s latest pop-up, The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic! Nestled within the Chanel Gardens, this sugar-coated wonderland is an immersive, family-friendly escapade designed to infuse the holiday spirit with a dash of whimsy.
Running now through January 2nd, the Candy Cottage promises an experience for all ages. It will take guests on an adventure that will invite them to embark on a journey through a magical, candy-filled Christmas tree.
Inspired by a fabled tale of an old cottage within a Christmas tree trunk, overflowing with magical sugar turned into edible delights by the cottage keepers, the Candy Cottage experience beckons visitors into a swirling, sugar-laden fantasy. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the feverishly working Cottage Keepers, spinning sugar into delectable treats while encouraging visitors to pluck candy from the cottage walls—truly a dream come true for those with a sweet tooth!
Once the sugary wonderland cravings are satisfied, visitors are equipped with a specially crafted map, setting them on a scavenger hunt throughout Rockefeller Center. This quest, teeming with hidden Christmas magic, leads participants through the iconic landmarks of the Center.
The journey culminates as guests return to the transformed Candy Cottage, where they receive a magically conjured gift along with a personalized message, as if crafted from thin air. The entire experience is curated to leave a lasting impression of the holiday spirit, wrapping visitors in the magic of Christmas.
The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic is the brainchild of We Are Smile Studio, a creative force founded by seasoned theater and film producer Arielle Tepper and Creative Producer Vance Garrett. Their expertise in crafting immersive experiences is evident in this delightful collaboration, marking the first of many to come from this innovative studio.
The design, courtesy of Nate Bertone and Adam Blumenthal, promises an enchanting atmosphere, while fabrication and production management by Nicolas Locke and Jonathan Zencheck ensure a seamless and magical execution of this whimsical concept.
The Candy Cottage of Christmas Magic at Rockefeller Center promises an immersive, magical experience ideal for families, friends, and anyone seeking to infuse the holiday season with a sprinkle of enchantment. With its darling design, creative storytelling, and a touch of theatrical expertise, it’s destined to create lasting memories that capture the essence of Christmas.
The experience operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing ample opportunity for families and visitors of all ages to partake in the festivities. Ticket prices range from $25 to $45 per person, depending on the day of the week and time of visit. Tickets are available here!
The highly anticipated debut book from the acclaimed comedy-writing duo releases on November 14 from HarperCollins.
I was able to sit down with the creator of “Kenan and Kel” Kim Bass as he went over his fantastic career in the television sitcom world.
He got the bug to be in the television and film industry very young. He was seven years old when his grandfather took him to his first movie and he thought that he would find a way to figure it all out. Moreover, “Kenan and Kel” was based on Bass’ relationship with his best friend Tyrone and his other show “Sister, Sister” was based on his twin sisters. He was also involved with a sketch comedy show called “In Living Color”.
In 2022, Bass had a film called “Tyson’s Run” and it began streaming on Netflix outside of the U.S. and it will begin streaming in the U.S. on Netflix on February 28, 2024 and has performed well globally, becoming the top 8 film on Netflix.
His other film “A Snowy Day in Oakland” began streaming recently on Starz, as well.
Obviously, Bass has been very busy with his work and doesn’t seem to be showing signs of slowing down as he will be shooting his next film entitled “A Lawyer, The Devil, Three Priests and a Nun” next spring.
On Monday night, Netflix hosted a DC Special Screening of the RUSTIN in partnership with the HBCU First Look Film Festival at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Former President and First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama were in attendance, and introduced the film’s director, George C. Wolfe, who was also a producer for the film, along with the Obamas’ production company, Higher Ground Productions.
As a die hard Marvel fan, I felt compelled to have to see the MCU’s 32nd studio film release because I’ve seen all the other theatrical releases. I’ve been invested from the moment I saw Iron Man and excited for every movie to come out after until now.
As many people are suffering from “superhero movie fatigue”, I went in with very low expectations because the last thing I want to be is disappointed in a Marvel project (I’m a HUGE Marvel fan BUT very unbiased when it comes to my job).
This film was definitely geared towards a younger audience with the inclusion of Ms. Marvel as one of the film’s protagonists. Iman Vellani does a terrific job of being the ultimate fan girl and superhero at the same time. Her bubbly attitude and eagerness to please Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel is just adorable. Most of her moments made me chuckle, especially when she asks Nick Fury (Samuel Jackson reprising the role) if she was being tested to be an Avenger.
Another addition to the film was Monica Rambeau making her MCU film debut sans code name (I’m assuming they will eventually call her Photon or Spectrum OR do they have a bigger role for her planned down the line?). Ms. Marvel makes a funny comment about “workshopping” a code name for her that made the audience giggle. Teyonnah Parris is just perfect as Monica Rambeau. She did a superb job of embodying the character and I just can’t imagine anyone else playing the role. The on screen chemistry between her and Brie and Iman was undeniable. I felt the sisterhood bond they formed and wouldn’t be surprised if the three of them are friends in real life.
Apart from the light hearted moments, the film does have incredible fight scenes that looked like they were a nightmare to choreograph (kudos to the film editors and stunt coordinators for their precision). The CGI was handled with a very delicate but heavy hand ensuring the realism of the landscapes and enormous worldbuilding that looked like a world that really existed is a far away galaxy. Also, our favorite furry flerken Goose is back and it turns out it/she/they (how do you refer to alien species that can procreate on their own) have a little secret that ends up saving the entire crew of the space station S.A.B.E.R. towards the end of the film (you gotta see it to believe it…the wackiest scene EVER).
So with that said, I will say that The Marvels was a furry, fun filled romp through the space time continuum. It made me smile and the last five minutes have definitely convinced me to stay the course and see where the MCU takes us next (YOU MUST STAY UNTIL THE MID CREDIT SCENE…it’s X-cellent (insert winkie emoji).)
On Sunday, November 5th, the UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital marked a milestone as they hosted the 24th annual Party on the Pier at the Santa Monica Pier. Personalities such as Nathan Kress, Bachelorette Charity Lawson, and her fiancé Dotun Olubeko, as well as Merrick Hannah, were among the guests who lent their support to the cause.