Father Stavros and his grown-up kids Anastasia and Andreas Aktipis are the family trio who are running Butterflied Chicken in midtown Manhattan.
An extraordinary weekend filled with inspiration and hope unfolded as New Yorkers had the privilege of witnessing the legendary Jane Goodall in action. From the moment she took the stage at Kings Theatre to deliver her captivating presentation, “Reasons for Hope,” to the thought-provoking conversation at the renowned 92nd Street Y, Dr. Goodall’s enduring optimism for our planet illuminated the hearts and minds of all in attendance.
Dr. Goodall, a world-renowned primatologist, environmentalist, and UN Messenger of Peace, has dedicated her life to studying and protecting chimpanzees and advocating for conservation efforts. Her unwavering commitment to creating a better world for future generations is truly awe-inspiring.
During her presentation at Kings Theatre on Saturday September 30th, Dr. Goodall shared stories of resilience, highlighting the importance of individual action and collective responsibility in tackling the environmental challenges we face. Her words resonated deeply, reminding us that even small acts can have a profound impact.
What struck me most was Dr. Goodall’s emphasis on the power of the youth. She spoke just as passionately the following evening on Sunday October 1st at the 92nd Street Y, about the role young people play in shaping the future and encouraged them to become active agents of change. Her ability to instill hope in the hearts of the next generation was a testament to her belief that together, we can make a difference.
Leaving both events, one couldn’t help but feel grateful for having witnessed Dr. Goodall’s unwavering dedication and contagious spirit. She is undeniably a gift to our world—a beacon of hope shining brightly amidst the challenges we face. Her legacy serves as a reminder that each of us has the power to contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate future.
In a world that often seems marred by uncertainty, Jane Goodall’s extraordinary work and her enduring optimism remind us that the actions we take today can positively impact tomorrow.
This sake is transcendent and blows other sake brands out of the water
Set against the backdrop of Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn, NY, Max hosted an immersive screening of Matthew Cherry’s new animated series Young Love this past Wednesday. The Chicago-based show follows an African American couple voiced by Issa Rae and Kid Cudi as Stephen & Angela, along with their daughter Zuri, played by Brooke Monroe Conaway. The animated series was greenlit by Max in 2020 and launched 9/21 for streaming on Max.
The new series for Max is created by Cherry, who will showrun with long-time animation creative Carl Jones (The Boondocks, Black Dynamite). The series will be executive produced by Blue Key Entertainment’s Monica A. Young (producer of Hair Love) along with Lion Forge Animation’s David Steward II and Carl Reed.
For the family-friendly event Max hosted immersive activations in partnership with Scene In Black & The Lay Out based on the 12-part TV show including:
- Angela’s Salon: Hair Braiding presented by Yeluchi by Un-Ruly
- Stephen’s Studio: Beats Making presented by BeatClub & Serato
- Zuri’s Reading Corner: Kids Activities presented by Penguin Random House
- Photo Moment: Family House
DJ BMAJR kept the mood alive and upbeat as the official DJ of the evening playing throwbacks and new singles for their set.
The event kicked off promptly at 6 PM, drawing a crowd of eager parents and their little ones, all grabbing snacks and preparing for the evening’s screening. However, the show didn’t start until after sunset, around 7 PM, heightening the anticipation among the attendees. While some episodes had already been released on Max the week before, the opportunity to gather and celebrate a Black TV show in the heart of Brooklyn felt like a powerful statement.
Notably, the local partners that Max collaborated with were predominantly Black vendors or organizations, further emphasizing the event’s intentional commitment to diversity. This choice was in line with the show’s creator and showrunner, Matthew Cherry, who is a Black filmmaker and first-time father. It was an inspiring moment, given the historical significance of Black hair and how it has defined the Black community, to see a light, family-friendly show portraying everyday struggles such as dealing with family expectations, life after a setback, and parenthood, especially to a bright young Black girl. These are challenges that the young couple must contend with, and the TV show skillfully highlights their journey.
Amidst these pressures, the TV show shines a light on the joy and love that the family members have for each other and those around them. Angela’s return to her life after her cancer remission includes relearning her trade as a hairstylist, with mistakes made but ultimately giving herself grace. Stephen grapples with embracing his musical talent and recognizing that his work may not appeal to everyone, understanding that artistic taste is subjective. Meanwhile, Zuri, as cute as ever, urges her parents to participate in a school project, not just to fulfill an assignment, but to showcase how cool and supportive her parents are. Angela and Stephen manage to arrive just in the nick of time, making Zuri proud and treating the kids to some great music for dancing.
Photograph Courtesy of Max
Max screened the first two episodes interactively, engaging the audience with trivia questions related to influential Black movies and TV shows embedded in popular culture. As the evening came to a close, Matthew Cherry, along with other key members of the show, took the stage to express their gratitude to the guests for joining in the celebration of the continuation of their storytelling journey, from Hair Love to Young Love. The Brooklyn audience gave Cherry a well-deserved round of applause, echoing their appreciation for the screening.
A new aging technique that helps develop even more flavor in the Maker’s Mark bourbon
With all the events commemorating the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, none are like Hall des Lumières interactive museum**. Hip Hop Til Infinity is** an immersive trip across 50 years of Hip Hop. The exhibition is co-produced by Mass Appeal and SUPERBIEN. The exhibition, sponsored by Nike, brings 50 years of Hip Hop to life with an immersive experience through Hip Hop’s celebrated moments.
Last week, the one-year anniversary of the Hall’s opening was marked by an all-day free visitation. Hip Hop Til Infinity takes places through the entire history of the genre highlighting early emcees to current hip hip star. The venue transported guests through Hip Hop’s different eras and regions by using the entirety of the museums space from the skate parks to the stage, to the metaverse.
Hip Hop 50 is a tribute to hip hop from Mass Appeal. The exhibition is a demonstration of the business’ dedication to showcasing culture in the most genuine and influential manner possible. Hip Hop 50 is promoting itself through telling creative stories that are realized in enduring content, original music, live performances, strategic alliances, unique products, and much more. The Universal Hip Hop Museum is a humanitarian organization that is represented in every aspect of the Hip Hop 50 Universe. Online, on the air, and on the street, look for #HipHop50.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.halldeslumieres.com. Follow @halldeslumieres on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
Daniel Caesar, the Grammy-winning R&B sensation, graced the stage at the iconic Hollywood Bowl for a concert event that will be etched in the memories of all fortunate enough to attend. Celebrating his latest album, “NEVER ENOUGH,” this event promised a musical journey filled with soulful melodies and raw emotion, and it delivered that and more.
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
**Daniel Caesar: The Star of the Show**
The night began with anticipation and excitement as fans gathered at the Hollywood Bowl, a venue known for hosting legendary performances. Daniel Caesar, with his velvety voice and unmatched talent, did not disappoint. From the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear that this was going to be an unforgettable evening.
Caesar opened the show with tracks from “NEVER ENOUGH,” instantly captivating the audience with his signature blend of R&B and soul. His rich, emotive vocals filled the open-air amphitheater, creating an intimate atmosphere that belied the size of the venue. The carefully choreographed visuals enhanced the experience, with the screens bathed in a mesmerizing array of POV angles that highlighted Daniel in sync with the music.
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
Throughout the evening, Caesar took fans on a musical journey through his discography, revisiting fan favorites while seamlessly integrating new tracks like “Always” “Do You Like Me?” and “Please Do Not Lean”. Each song was delivered with an authenticity and vulnerability that left the crowd hanging on every word. Hits like “Get You” and “Best Part” showcased his ability to connect on a deeply emotional level, and the new material from the album continued to solidify his place as a modern R&B icon.
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
But it wasn’t just Caesar’s vocal prowess that left a lasting impression. His stage presence was magnetic, drawing the audience in with every gesture and expression. The result was an atmosphere of genuine connection and shared emotion, a rare and precious quality that elevated the concert to something truly special.
**Opening Acts: Orion Sun and Flying Lotus**
The evening’s musical journey didn’t begin with Daniel Caesar alone. It was enriched by two exceptional opening acts: Orion Sun and Flying Lotus (and a surprise guest Thundercat).
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
Orion Sun, an indie singer-songwriter and producer, set the stage with her ethereal sound and introspective lyrics. Her performance was a captivating blend of soul, R&B, and electronic elements that set the tone for the night. Orion Sun’s unique style and emotive delivery left the audience eager for what was to come.
Flying Lotus, the renowned electronic music producer and artist, brought a different energy to the stage. His genre-defying set was a sonic journey that pushed the boundaries of electronic music. With a mind-bending visual display to accompany the music, Flying Lotus along with Thundercat, took the audience on a psychedelic trip that left them in awe.
Randall Michelson/Hewitt Silva-Live Nation
**A Night to Remember**
In conclusion, Daniel Caesar’s “NEVER ENOUGH” concert at the Hollywood Bowl was a night of musical magic. Caesar’s soulful performance, complemented by the mesmerizing opening acts of Orion Sun and Flying Lotus, created an experience that transcended the ordinary. It was a celebration of artistry, emotion, and connection, reminding everyone in attendance that there can never be enough of such transcendent moments in music. This concert will be remembered as a highlight in the career of Daniel Caesar and a cherished memory for all the fans in attendance that now know how to wield their SUPERPOWERS.
Club 90s presents Guts Night: Olivia Rodrigo’s Official Album Dance Party was held at the Gramercy Theatre in New York!
There’s always time for a negroni
Boston is officially on island time!
Coconut water brand Vita Coco and Captain Morgan have recently teamed up to bring the Caribbean to store shelves nationwide. As part of a multi-city “Tropical Takeover Tour” in celebration of Vita Coco Spiked with Captain Morgan, Jamaican rapper Sean Paul gave an exclusive performance at The Grand in Boston on Sept. 14.
The Grand was transformed into a tropical paradise with everything from palm trees and hammocks to signature Captain Morgan mixed drinks. The good vibes got even better when Paul took the stage to perform his top hits, including Sia’s “No Lie,” Clean Bandit’s “Rockabye,” and of course, “Temperature.”
Noteworthy guests of the night included 106 and Park host, Free.
Paul expressed his excitement regarding his partnership with the brands earlier this year in an exclusive interview with The Knockturnal. “In Jamaica we have a culture of rum tasting and drinking and when we do beach parties we usually put coconut water in our rum so it’s a perfect match for me,” the rapper said in June. “I love how it tastes.“
And Paul is right—this collab is so good that it will make you want to shake that thing. Made with real coconut water and Caribbean Rum, Vita Coco Spiked with Captain Morgan canned cocktails are available in three flavors: Piña Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri and Lime Mojito.
“It’s a way for me to spread a part of my culture as a Jamaican boy,” Paul continued, “and let people know how we do it.”
If you are 21+, visit captainmorgan.com to purchase your own vacation in a can.