NYC TOP 5 VENUES LIST

It's that time again where the Life of a New Yorker shouts out the most notable venues in NYC!

If you would like your venue featured on the list email details and location to jherelleb@gmail.com

NYC TOP 5 VENUES

1. Saturday Mass Mic @ Nicholas Brooklyn

Every Second Saturday of the month Nicholas Brooklyn opens it's doors to poets, musicians, and performing artists of all kinds. The scent of healthy delicious dishes and incense mingle with creative vibes and to top it off, they have free wine! Shop for some jewelry, natural products, cultural garments, books and more while being entertained and be sure to get there early for a spot on the open mic list!

 570 Fulton St, Brooklyn NY 11217

Nicholas Brooklyn Website

2. Babble
"Founded in 2010, Babble in the Bronx is an open mic series that provides artist a platform to come and share there talents to a live Bronx audience in an intimate venue located in the Castle Hill Section of the
 Bronx."

Babble in the Bronx Spoken Word Open Mic Series

3. Brooklyn Swirl
Brooklyn Swirl claims they have "the best frozen yogurt in Brooklyn" and it's up to you to choose from various flavors of yogurts and smoothies to prove them right or wrong. They also hold events and host kid parties from time to time at this unique venue located in the heart of Bed Stuy.

445 Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn NY 11216
http://brooklynswirl.com/

4. FIERCE
Fierce is an organization dedicated to building and developing the leadership power of LGBTQ youths of color in NYC. According to their site, " FIERCE is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of social justice movement leaders who are dedicated to ending all forms of oppression." They host and participate in several events every month.

147 W 24th St. New York, NY 10011
http://www.fiercenyc.org/

5. Sugar Cane
This spicy restaurant near downtown was voted "Best Caribbean restaurant in New York" according to their website. The food is delicious but it is a little on the pricey side so come prepared to spend plenty U.S dollars if you plan on wining and dining at this spot. They also have a full bar and event space available.

238 Flatbush Ave. Brooklyn NY 11217
http://www.sugarcanerestaurant.com

Nichole Acosta's Epic XII takes over NYC

"When I say EPIC, you say TWELVE! EPIC! TWELVE! EPIC! TWELVE!!!!"

Welcome to the wonderful world of poetry where similes are as frequent as smiles and "wordplay is a poet's foreplay" (Nichole Acosta). In this world there exists a hub where poets, musicians, storytellers, dancers, and performing artists of all kinds are offered a mic, a stage, and a home. The Inspired Word in it's four year history has encouraged and inspired (as it's name suggests) many many talented individuals including, Nichole Acosta, the Collabo Queen.

Acosta with mentor, Mike Geffner (founder of Inspired Word)

Nichole Acosta, a published author and performance poet, began frequenting the Inspired Word about 2 years ago and earned the title of Collabo Queen after accomplishing her goal of collaborating with 25 other performing artists this year and founding the group: The Epic XII. The Epic XII is "a quarterly changing cast of 12 performers of various genres bridging gaps in a divided world through collaboration."

 When asked, why 12? Nichole stated, "12 was the cap for me. The number that made sense. I saw it everywhere. 12 months in a year, average about 12 likes on Facebook posts, 12 apostles. It felt right. Epic 12 the name stuck. In the span of two months, artists who never met before became a forever family of collaborators and put together a successful show of all our work."

 

Epic XII Cast Season 1

Since their debut showcase performance in July of this year at the sidewalk cafe, the Epic XII has been an expanding and evolving force, fueled by Acosta's dedication and constantly feeding off the positive energy of the Inspired Word. The Epic XII has sneak peaked and featured at notable NYC venues such as Tammany Hall and most recently Local 61 on Bergen St. Downtown Brooklyn and many of their performances and behind the scenes videos can be found on Acosta's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb9BNSkyq9U-Fe8kaR9Zu2A?feature=watch

"Working with so many people has really really helped me grow as a person and artist, to see through others perspectives more often and write every day and just come out of my shell fully with an open heart" - Nichole Acosta.

Mix of Epic XII cast Season 1-3 after Poetry Showcase @ Local 61

Despite the success of Epic XII, Nichole still pushes herself to higher heights by taking on the role of Director of community relations for The Inspired Word,  adding members of Epic XII seasons 3 and 4, publishing her first chap book entitled, Field of Fireflies, and traveling overseas to teach poetry workshops and perform in Singapore this month. Nichole says, "No one can say for sure the exact path the Epic XII will go but I am certain we are headed in the right direction. Some things that will stay constant: We'll  always have a live band, speak on various topics, have performers of all art forms and collaborate, collaborate, collaborate, not just with me but with each other."

Catch the last sneak peak of Epic XII before the season two November showcase this Saturday at Nichole Acosta's Book release Party.

Where: Funkadelic Studios
When: October 12th 2013
9:00pm - Midnight
Cost: 10$ gets entry and signed copy of book
RSVP HERE



And be sure to see the magic of collaboration live with the Epic XII led by the Collabo Queen herself on November 13th 2013!

RSVP HERE 

For more information on Nichole Acosta, The Inspired Word, or The Epic XII, check out the links below:
www.inspiredwordnyc.com
 http://nicholeacosta.wix.com/poetry#!__epic-xii
facebook.com/theepic12
instagram.com/theepicxii

NYC Top 5 Venues List

The time has come again for The Life of a New Yorker (.com) to select 5 venues in this grand city that are worth mentioning.

Remember if you have a venue you want to see on the list send an email and we'll be happy to check it out.

It's all about NY all the time!

NYC'S TOP 5 VENUES

1. Abiodun's Open House Sundays

Legendary Abiodun Oyewole, founder of  The Last Poets, has opened his home to musicians, poets, and creative thinkers alike each and every Sunday to share and learn in a open and positive environment complete with salmon croquette and constructive critique from the legend himself.

110 Morningside Dr, New York, NY 10027

The Last Poets

2. Tammany Hall

A restaurant and performance space on Orchard St. in the city that can only be accurately described as  fancy. "The venue features an expansive main floor with a 24-foot modular stage, classic big bar and banquette-style seating. A mezzanine overlooking the main floor is ideal for listening and mingling, and is equipped with its own private service bar."

Tammany Hall hosts a variety events regularly, for instance the Inspired Word will be featuring tomorrow (Wednesday Sept. 17th 2013), flexing their musical wings and displaying some of the most talented musicians in NYC!

 152 Orchard St. New York, NY 10002

tammanyhallny.com 

https://musicallstarsnyc.eventbrite.com/

3. 6th St. & Avenue B Community Garden

Photo by Michael Phillip Geffner

This community garden is a piece of history as it has been around since the 80s. "Today the garden serves as an anchor of local community garden groups and as a working model of preservation for an energetic greening movement." The garden hosts a variety of free events and workshops which their website gives detailed information about.

Photo Taken by Michael Phillip Geffner

 Corner of 6th St. and Avenue B New York, NY

http://www.6bgarden.org/

4. Don Pollo Restaurant

Exotic Peruvian cuisine, always fresh and always delicious! Taste the savory flavors of Peru right here in the big city!

83-02 95th Ave, Ozone Park NY 11416

http://www.donpollonyc.com/

5. Dassara

Brooklyn restaurant specializing in a variety of noodles/ramen dishes at an affordable price in a cozy little space.

271 Smith St. Brooklyn, NY 11231

www.dassara.com/‎

Brooklyn Poet's "YAWP"

There is poetry brewing in Brooklyn.

"Brooklyn Poets is a non-profit literary organization celebrating and cultivating the poets, poetry and literary heritage of Brooklyn, the birthplace of American poetry." Brooklyn has been known to breed some of the world's most notable poets. This dedicated organization holds several events and workshops to engage Brooklyn poets and bring together a community of artists in a safe and inspiring environment.

Every 2nd Monday of the month Brooklyn Poets holds "YAWP" which is a monthly poetry writing class followed by an open mic. For 5$ you can experience both the poetry writing class (taught by a Brooklyn Poet's member or guest poet) and the open mic. 

The next Yawp will be held on September 9th at 61 local on Bergen St. taught by Jeff Simpson and begin at 7pm. The open mic will follow at 8pm and the list fills up fast so visit  http://brooklynpoets.org/events/yawp/ to sign up early and reserve your spot!

The experience is memorable and will definitely keep you on your toes regardless of your experience as a poet. For more information visit the Brooklyn Poets website: http://brooklynpoets.org/

Taken from brooklynpoets.org

Happy Writing!!!

Top Five Venues List

Good Day New Yorkers (and troublesome tourists who we love oh so much). It's that time again where The Life of A New Yorker.Com explores various New York City venues in a top five countdown.

NYC'S TOP 5 VENUES

1. Joe's Pub

 "Joe's Pub at Public Theater is a nightclub that hosts live performances regularly." Drinks are affordable and the evening is always enjoyable at this reputable NYC venue.

425 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10003

www.joespub.com

2. Dixon Place

 "Dixon Place is an Obie Award winning, Off-Off-Broadway New York City theater devoted exclusively to presenting original pieces of theater, dance, performance art and literature that are works in progress"

 161 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002

dixonplace.org

3. Paint & Poetry

"A collaborative effort of all things art." Paint and Poetry is a unique monthly event created by Mojo disco featuring underground artists in NYC; poets, Emcee's, and musicians, giving them a chance to showcase their talents.

https://www.facebook.com/PaintAndPoetry

4. DALLAS BBQS

A well known family restaurant serving up giant specialty frozen drinks and that southern corn bread just like mama use to make!

241 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 

 180 Livingston St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

 www.dallasbbq.com/

5. Locs of Royalty

 Located in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, Locs of Royalty is a natural hair care salon brought to you by Kdaloctician.

 295 Livingston St, Brooklyn NY

https://www.facebook.com/Locs.of.Royalty

Relle Independence Day Performance

Relle the Poet opens for Hip Hop Legends Digable Planets on Independence day 

In NYC

Check out her FB page: Facebook.com/relle.the.poet

Featured Artist: Taylor Flash

Taylor Flash

Have you ever had your soul captured so uniquely by a photographer that you didn't even recognize yourself ?

The Life of a New Yorker Presents the most recent featured artist: Taylor Flash. To call him a talented photographer would be an insulting understatement to say the least. Taylor is an original. With all the so called photographers appearing on the "scene" someone with an eye for natural beauty, respect for the art, and actual talent is much appreciated.

Photo Taken by Taylor Flash

Taylor has been taking photos for about 2 1/2 years and says people are his inspiration. " People inspire me through hearing and seeing their work everyday. Channeling their energy is what allows me to portray them. It makes me happy when people see the end result image and through that , see a spirit in themselves that they previously might have not saw. Its almost like giving back." - Flash

Taken by Taylor Flash

Landscape by Taylor Flash

While Taylor is well versed in portraits, and studio photography he is also well known for his landscapes and has most recently added videography to his list of credentials. He charges anywhere between 100$ - 200$ per photo shoot depending on the situation. For the high quality photos he can produce his prices are always very reasonable.

Taken by Taylor Flash

Working with Taylor was an honor and a pleasure. If you are looking for a professional, affordable, talented, and original photographer, Taylor is your man!!!

Check out his fan page: https://www.facebook.com/Taylorflashphotos

and Portfolio: http://www.wix.com/taylorflashphotos/astoryofakid

Top Five Venues List

The time has come again for The Life Of A New Yorker's Top Five Venues List! below you will find some of NYC's most intriguing and useful venues.

1. Jambox Recording Studios

Jambox Entertainment offers professional recording services at this top of the line studio equipped with all the essentials for song writers, demos, mixes, mastering and more!

352 7th Avenue, New York NY 10001 

www.jamboxstudio.com/‎

2. Village Underground Open Mic Night

Join an undoubtedly talented group of artists as they come together every weekend to indulge in a night of entertaining live music.

Reoccurring every Sunday evening at 9:00pm

130 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012

thevillageunderground.com/‎

3. YoungMikeyTV.com showcase/ Music Concert & Open Mic

"The .com Community music Concert takes place July 12th @the .com community Lounge. If you're a poet, rapper singer or comedian and take it seriously this is place to showcase your talent."

 Date: July 12th 2013 (Reoccurring every month)

1760 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn NY 11226

 http://www.youngmic-keytv.com/

4. AFRIKART Custom Garments

Custom Garments made and African Fabrics available for all occasions.

295 Livingston St, Brooklyn NY 11217

Website Coming Soon...

5. Perfections Gentleman's Night Club

"The Most trendsetting gentleman's club in Queens, New York with more than 100 exclusive female entertainers hand picked and selected."

 6205 30th Ave, Woodside NY 11377

 clubperfections.com/

Top Five Venues List

1. The Inspired Word Presents; The All-Star Showcase

The Inspired Word series presents the start of the brand new All-Star Showcase! The best of the best comedians, poets, musicians, and storytellers from the Inspired Word.

 **Beginning Thursday, June 20th (Re-occurring the third Thursday of every month)**
BareBurger Restaurant 85 Second Ave, New York NY 10003
http://inspiredwordallstars.eventbrite.com/

2. Club Allure
Lets get grown and sexy! Club allure is a spacious and classy club in Long Island City. Hold your birthday party or event here or just come out to enjoy a Saturday evening with friends.

33-02 Queens Blvd. Long Island City, NY 11101
http://www.cluballurenyc.com/

3. Rimes of The Ancient Mariner Monthly Open Mic

Every Month the legendary Ancient Mariner Phillip Giambri offers this exciting open mic series open to all performing artists in NYC. Admission is 7$ and there is a 21+ age limit.

 **First Thursday of every month**

Identity Bar and Lounge @ 511 East 6th St. New York, NY 10009

https://www.facebook.com/events/417345091686612/

4. The Brooklyn Pyramidz
In addition to ensuring experienced engineers and top of the line equipment/software (Pro tools), this unique studio also offers artist friendly rates of 35$ per hourly session

 1313 Sterling Place Brooklyn NY 11213
https://www.facebook.com/brooklyn.pyramidz?fref=ts

5. Club Amnesia
Club Amnesia has over 35 Spacious V.I.P sections, a state of the art sound and lighting system, & 7,000 Square feet to party in. Located in West Chelsea, Club Amnesia combines non-stop energy and entertainment that give guests an experience not felt in NY nightlife.

 609 West 29th St. New York, NY 10001
amnesianyc.com

Girl Problems by Jherelle Benn

The Life Of New Yorker Presents A Digi Poem By Jherelle Benn

Directed by Duane Chivon Ferguson

Produced by Jherelle Benn

Duane Chivon Ferguson

Zita Zenda

Shot right here in the good ole City of New York

Top Five Venues List

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

This Museum offers hundreds of events each month—including lectures, films, tours, family activities, and more!

1000 5th Ave, New York NY 10028

www.metmuseum.org/

2. Red Bamboo

This unique and cozy restaurant seasons their food to perfection and carries some of the freshest and tastiest vegetarian cuisine in New York!

140 West 4th St, New York NY 10012

http://redbamboo-nyc.com/site/

3. The Inspired Word's Music Box Open Mic at Funkadelic Studios

Lets get funky! Every first Friday of the month this diverse open mic is open to all musical performance artists.

335 West 35th St, New York NY 10001

http://inspiredwordnyc.com/

funkadelicstudios.com/

4. The Bronx Zoo

The famous Bronx zoo boasts over 4,000 animals and represents about 650 species around the world.

2300 South Blvd, Bronx NY 10460

www.bronxzoo.com/

5. The Woods

Equipped with Full bar, spacious dance floor, and outdoor smoking area patio, "The Woods" makes for a perfect Friday night Adventure.

48 South 4th St, Brooklyn NY 11211

The Woods Website

Justice For Jabbar

Given the heavily weighted title of “Law Enforcement”, sworn to providing protection for innocent civilians, armed and equipped with lethal weapons; this is how all NYPD officials are let loose in the city. From flagrant racial profiling to blatant disrespect of civil rights it has been made clear the police have a different agenda.

Jabbar Campbell, who I have personally known to be a very caring, intelligent, and non-violent individual was attacked by several officers in his own home.It was highly disconcerting news to hear that a fun night with friends had unfortunately resulted in a visit by cops who were intent on violating his rights both by damaging his property and using unwarranted excessive force.

 
"The incident happened around 3 AM Sunday  January 13th. There was a gay underground party  going on at my place. 1 patrol car pulled up curb side around 2:45 AM and ordered me to turn the music down. I kindly complied with their request and proceeded to my home to turn the music down. In a few moments, more cops showed up at my front door and tampered with my surveillance system. Shortly after that, I was attacked by those officers inside my own home. I've received 9 stitches on my lip, bumps and lumps all over my face , head neck and back. I plan on fighting back by promoting awareness on police brutality and letting my story be heard. My lawyers and I are planning a civil suit against the city of New York" -Campbell's Statement

Violent acts such as these are more then unnecessary and beyond unscrupulous. Let our freedoms be granted as humanity demands it. Let there be Justice.

Top Five Venues List

Back at it again with The Life of A New Yorker's Top Five venues list.

1.  The Barclays Center

Brooklyn's latest sports and entertainment arena and home of the Brooklyn Nets. Catch concerts, games, and events every day of the week at the Barclays!

620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn NY 11217

http://www.barclayscenter.com/

2. The Inspired Word Organic Open Mic at BareBurger Restaurant

Calling all artists! The Inspired Word open mic series is a loving and open community providing a haven for all performing artists to come together and share their work. Each and every Tuesday night this open mic offers 25 5 min slots beginning at 7:00pm.

85 2nd Ave, New York NY 10033

http://inspiredwordnyc.com/

http://www.bareburger.com/

3.  Escuelita ("Escoes")

"Ayyyy Papi Chulo Bailar Conmigo!!!" You may hear quite a bit of these common phrases when visiting Escuelita; a popular club near times square in the NYC homosexual community. Of course Heterosexuals are always welcome to enjoy the colorful festivities! Fridays at escoes everyone gets in free of charge before midnight!

301 W 39th St, Manhattan New York 10018

www.escuelita.com/

4. Play Lounge
The adults place to play while the children are away. Equip with pool tables, bowling lanes, beer bong, flip cup and full bar, the Play Lounge is the perfect place for anyone over 21 to relax and let loose.

77-17 Queens Blvd, Elmhurst NY 11373

http://play-ny.com/

5. Kinokuniya

One of the most interesting book stores in NYC. Kinokuniya is predominately a Japanese book store however their versatile merchandise caters to every type of consumer. Books, snap back caps, office supplies, references, plushies, and collectibles are just a few of the interesting items that can be found while browsing the isles. And if you get hungry, not to worry they have a cafe on the 2nd floor of the establishment where you can enjoy a break and some tasty Asian cuisine.

1071 Avenue of the Americas, New York NY 10018

http://www.kinokuniya.com/