Happy Joe’s CEO on Recent Growth, Ongoing Challenges, and Future Outlook

NY Weekly Staff on January 17, 2023

Image Commercially Licensed From: Unsplash

Tom Sacco, the CEO and Chief Happiness Officer of the iconic pizza and ice cream restaurant chain Happy Joe’s has had a remarkable year. The first restaurant was founded in 1972 by Joe Whitty in Davenport, Iowa, who wanted to fuse pizza and ice cream – two of America’s favorite foods – into a family-focused and festive offering. Today, in 2022 alone, the company won the “Top 50 Contender” award by QSR Magazine, as well as the “Top 200 Concept” by FastCasual, the “Top 400 Business” by Franchise Times Magazine, a “Top 500 Restaurant” by Nation’s Restaurant News, and inducted into Pizza Marketplace Magazine’s “Hall of Fame”. Over the last two years or so, the company opened more franchises and locations than it had in the past 10 years and underwent a digital and branding transformation that laid the foundation for growth and outreach in new markets.

With 28 new franchise agreements inked during this time – representing a 60%+ increase in store count – as well as Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4’s 2022 sales comping 12% or higher than 2020 figures, Tom Sacco and Happy Joe’s are turning the post-pandemic page and are rewriting the “eatertainment” narrative for all.

Q4  of 2022 was the eighth consecutive quarter that Happy Joe’s experienced positive sales growth and the company’s in-house, curbside, drive-thru, and dine-in channels all experienced significant sales upticks during this time. Whether you want a unique pizza creation for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, or want to celebrate a holiday, graduation, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or other festivities with friends and family, Tom Sacco wants Happy Joe’s to be your destination of choice. The same goes for schools, offices, and community organizations, all of which can avail of special discounts, vouchers, and time-specific offerings based on their needs and tastes.

2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Happy Joe’s. Much of the company’s recent successes and the increases in same-store sales and year-on-year revenue between 2020 and 2022 were driven by new franchise openings. The launch of a new loyalty rewards program built on a tech platform designed to integrate online, dine-in, and curbside channels also helped drive sales during this time.

According to Tom Sacco, what defines Happy Joe’s as a successful business is that it is one of only a handful of worldwide brands that connect emotionally with its guests. It is a very different type of pizza brand, one that looks at its pizza dough as a blank canvas. Happy Joe’s is not restricted by preconceived ideas of what toppings go on a pizza; instead, each pizza is like a canvas on which any new idea or innovation can be brought to life. The company is 50 years old but still growing because it has a brand that families value more now than at any time in its iconic past.

Some of the main challenges that the company faces is reaching critical mass. Tom Sacco has said that if Happy Joe’s had more restaurants spread across the country, it would be easier for it to sustain its growth. The company also faces many of the same economic issues facing everyone in the country and worldwide since having a stable workforce and a stable supply chain are prerequisites for successful growth and continued expansion in any industry.

In terms of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the company’s current and future plans, Tom Sacco said that COVID hurt the company in the first few months until the leadership team got the company’s strategy aligned. Happy Joe’s already had its own in-house delivery and pick-up windows so that guests do not have to get out of their cars to pick up their pizzas and pasta, but these offerings required promotion. Once the marketing team started promoting them, they immediately set the company apart from the crowd. After the first six months of COVID, Happy Joe’s has had eight consecutive quarters of positive store sales increases over its pre-COVID sales numbers.

In terms of how the company positions itself against its main competitors and what differentiates Happy Joe’s from the rest, Tom Sacco says that it comes down to a focus on family connections. It focuses on being the place to celebrate any family event, and that offering is extended to school and community groups and events. Happy Joe’s says it creates lifelong magical memories for its guests and has put in the investment and foundation needed to deliver on that promise.

Happy Joe’s also relentlessly supports charities and causes. The company requires every franchisee to have an organization that supports special needs, the less fortunate, individuals in need, and those afflicted with certain illnesses or diseases. “Doing the right thing, for the right reason, and with a servant’s heart,” to paraphrase CEO Tom Sacco, is what the company’s corporate social responsibility mission statement might look like.

While Happy Joe’s has long been a US-only company with locations spread across the Midwestern and Southern US, it recently opened a new franchise in Egypt. Plans for additional locations in Egypt and across the Middle East are under contract now.

Talking about the company’s strategy for entering the Middle Eastern market as well as the challenges, opportunities, and plans for further expansion, Tom Sacco said that the company had gotten some press about its brand and had two different groups reach out to the management team over the same four-month timeframe expressing interest in bringing Happy Joe’s to Egypt and the Middle East. With this interest and Sacco’s experience operating American restaurant brands around the globe, this being his third time opening an American brand in Egypt, the company chose to move forward with the group that had the most familiarity with the brand and a better understanding of Happy Joe’s family-centric culture. The Egypt launch was wildly successful, with families queuing up in the exclusive Roxy neighborhood of Cairo to get their first taste of the gourmet menu.

The biggest challenges that the company faced came from pandemic-related supply chain issues, which were compounded by the war in Ukraine, which is where the majority of flour imported into Egypt came from. However, while working within this challenging context, the company hopes to expand into new countries and territories across North Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Australia, and Asia, when the time and opportunity are right.

Tom Sacco has said that much of the company’s future success will be built on doing what the company’s early leaders did. The only exception, he says, would be to focus more on nurturing new franchises and helping them expand slowly. Getting the building size right, operating with positive cash flows from day 1, and increasing annual sales of every new franchise takes time, and doing that the right way is critical for the success of new Happy Joe’s outlets.

The current and ongoing recession has had an impact on Happy Joe’s because the company did not increase its prices for over 3.5 years. However, the cost of labor and the rate of inflation for the goods and services the company buys had increased beyond the point that the old prices could not be justified, so prices for items invariably rose in 2022. However, sales continue to grow organically, and new tech-driven options continue to drive additional growth as well.

According to Tom Sacco, some of the best-known and successful Happy Joe’s restaurants include Happy Joe’s on Century Blvd., in Dubuque, IA, and Happy Joe’s on Spruce Hills, in Bettendorf, IA. These locations continue to lead the chain, year in and year out, in sales and guest counts. They both offer consistently excellent food and great value for the dollar, are heavily involved in their local community, operate with a Servant’s Heart and a Warrior Spirit, and are passionate about their business.

However, thanks to some of the company’s latest milestones – which include opening in Egypt in July and reaching the half-century mark, something that 90% of all US restaurants have not done – Tom Sacco believes the future is bright for all of Happy Joe’s franchises. With a new image (new building design), new branding (new website), and a new loyalty app (online ordering with technology enhancements) in place, the company achieved significant progress in areas where it had been lacking.

As a restaurant concept that focuses on serving America’s two favorite foods – pizza and ice cream – in a family-friendly, celebratory environment, and with rapid expansion underway, Happy Joe’s is living up to the awards it has received. Under the leadership of Tom Sacco and a rich, family-focused heritage that is beloved by people from all places and backgrounds, Happy Joe’s hopes to continue expanding and living up to the vision of its founder for decades to come.

Alpha Fashionista: The New Streetwear Brand Set to Revolutionize the Fashion Industry with High-End Fedora and Streetwear Collections

NY Weekly Staff on January 17, 2023

Alpha Fashionista, an up-and-coming fashion brand founded in Highland Park, Los Angeles, is set to officially launch in March 2023. The black-owned company specializes in premium fashion wear and has gained a large following across the country and the attention of fashion influencers in recent weeks.

What sets Alpha Fashionista apart from other fashion brands is its unique approach to blending culture, art, and music into its collections, which go beyond accessorizing. With a focus on high-end fedoras and streetwear, Alpha Fashionista offers ultimate confidence, unmatched style, and limitless opportunities for self-expression. The brand was founded by Juan “Jay” Love, who serves as the brand’s Founder and Creative Director, and has years of experience in the high fashion industry.

Juan “Jay” Love has years of experience in the high fashion industry. He recognized a significant industry gap that Alpha Fashionista could significantly impact. Its focus and inspiration on urban culture and daily live music, movies, and art can be seen in its collection and give confidence to people.

Alpha Fashionista fedoras are made of high-quality materials and felt and decorated with intricate ribbon work. The fedoras have a classic look and feel, as they were made to evoke an era gone by. Sage green, cappuccino, rhino grey, and charcoal grey are just some of the hues that will be offered, expanding the range of possible uses for each. When the right design pieces are put together, they may not only make an outfit seem more put-together, but they can also become indispensable staples.

The Alpha Fashionista fedoras are expected to be priced between $250 and $750, making them accessible to the style-conscious consumer for a high-quality, timeless accessory that can elevate any look. Whether you’re looking for a fedora to complement a streetwear outfit or a formal look, Alpha Fashionista has something for you. 

One of the key features of Alpha Fashionista is the use of organic materials in its clothing, which minimizes the brand’s environmental impact. The brand’s slogan, “Be bold, be confident, be a fashionista,” speaks to its designs and its dedication to empowering its customers to express themselves confidently through their fashion choices.

Alpha Fashionista’s streetwear collection will be equally impressive, blending urban culture, art, and music to create unique, stylish pieces that inspire confidence, ambition, and ceaseless achievement. From the materials and fabrics used to the design and style, every aspect of the collection is intended to help customers express themselves and stand out from the crowd.

Alpha Fashionista’s launch is highly anticipated, and the brand is expected to make a big impact on the fashion industry with its unique approach to fashion, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to empowering individuals through their fashion choices.

Alpha Fashionista is a brand to watch in the fashion industry. High-end fedoras and streetwear that inspire unparalleled confidence, style, and space for personal expression will be its primary focus. The brand’s use of organic materials, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to empowering its customers through its fashion choices set it apart from the competition. Keep an eye out for Alpha Fashionista’s debut and mark the date on your calendar; you won’t want to miss it.

Media Contact

Company Name: Alpha Fashionista

Contact Person: Rachel King, Sr. Marketing Manager

Email: info@alphafashionista.com

Phone: (310) 684-2554

City: Los Angeles

State: California

Country: United States

Mexican-American Rapper MC Nulty Makes His Mark in the Urban Music Industry

NY Weekly Staff on January 17, 2023

Aspiring artists flood the music industry every year, making it increasingly difficult for dreamers to stand out and showcase their unique talents. However, rising rapper Michael McNulty, better known as MC Nulty, has never let this deter him from pursuing his passion for urban music. With over 20 years of experience and a love for the genre, MC Nulty has managed to set himself apart from the crowd and make a name for himself in the industry.

Born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, MC Nulty discovered his love for music at a young age and began producing his first demo when he was just ten years old. Throughout his teenage years, he worked various gigs, including hosting cultural and music shows in his community. He had his first big break at 13 when he presented his music at the Hard Rock Cafe and had the opportunity to showcase his talents across local bars and clubs.

Despite facing challenges, MC Nulty never gave up on his dream. He packed up his life in Mexico and moved to the United States to grow as an artist. Today, his songs are streamed and loved by thousands of listeners worldwide, particularly in the US and Latin America.

MC Nulty’s new single, “Wanna Make You Dance,” showcases his artistry and spreads good vibes, encouraging listeners to get off their feet and dance. The rapper’s goal is to make people feel good about themselves and to help them live a better life through his music.

The Mexican-American rapper can make music in both Spanish and English, thrilling listeners with sick beats, seamless musicality, and jaw-dropping lyrics that speak of his personality. He has also made waves as a Latin rapper and has recently collaborated with one of his idols, Bizarre from D12, Eminem’s band.

MC Nulty has a growing fanbase with listeners from Mexico, the United States, Latin America, and even Europe, and has garnered thousands of streams across Spotify, YouTube and other music and video streaming platforms.

As MC Nulty says, “I saw that life was a hard thing to do, so I went into the urban road, making music and expressing my feelings this way. Music has saved my life so many times in so many ways that I get that fame is not the most important thing in art. It is to express the good and bad things of life.”

Animation Eclipse of Reason 2020: The Creative Art Work Illustrated By Li xin Li Studio

NY Weekly Staff on January 17, 2023

The effects brought by the Coronavirus that hit the United States are profound. Even till today, despite the death rate not being as high as it was, the unemployment rate and the inflation rate will say the opposite. Not surprisingly, some start to wonder what the world would be like if the Covid-19 was taken seriously at the beginning of 2020. Li xin Li Studio, an art studio that aims at illustrating emotions, launched Eclipse of Reason 2020 in regards to this sentiment.

Xinli Li, the founder of the studio, noticed that it‘s pretty interesting Covid-19 is not the first pandemic that provoked racial hateness. Same thing happened with Japan when the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster took place. People tend to see laying hands on the responsible party as their priority instead of dealing with the situation immediately, which is unbelievably sick, in Li’s opinion. 

“Humanity can be misled easily, especially when something devastating happens, something  that none of us has experienced before,” Li says, “and that is where the inspiration of Eclipse of Reason 2020 comes from.” 

Li created approximately 7 scenes in this project to present the different reaction of parties when a pandemic begins. While the main characters are fighting against each other and trying to find out whom to blame, innocent citizens are dying on the side, which was a reflection of how the US government was attacking China but failing to realize that saving their own people’s lives was what mattered in early 2020.  

Li xin Li Studio

Sourced Photo

“I wanted to generate an ironic story version of Covid-19 to remind people of what’s important in life when an unexpected disaster happens,” Li demonstrates, “it broke my heart when I saw multiple innocent Asians getting attacked on streets or being pushed off platforms by random people and how each party has led the whole country against another. It’s not that complicated at all and everyone was just getting carried away.”

Li pointed out that there was and there will always be one certain group taking their anger and the unfairness from real life out on another group to feel satisfied. Even though each individual is stressed out at some point, they will assemble and come to an agreement when an obvious target appears.

Each frame of Eclipse of Reason 2020 is hand-drawn by a carbon pen, according to Li. And he followed a routine where the next scene was always created after the last scene was erased, establishing a sense of tracking that mirrors the profound effects of Covid. As a visual artist, Li strategically combines animation and the traditional painting methods to expand the dimensions of his work and successfully adds social values to it.

Breaking Through The Noise: A Profile on DJ Bander, as Seen in Forbes Magazine

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

With the electronic dance music scene in full swing, it is no surprise that world-renowned DJ Bander has been sparking up conversations with plenty of elite names and publications. After years of hard work and dedication to honing his skills, the music industry mogul has built a pristine reputation as a producer and entrepreneur that extends all over the globe. More recently, he’s left his unforgettable mark on Forbes Magazine, discussing trends within the industry.

But what sets DJ Bander apart from the rest? Let’s take a closer look.

Zachary Schnall, aka DJ Bander, is a multi-faceted artist with a vision that knows no bounds. With an eclectic musical background encompassing Moby, Vangelis, Eliot Golden, Kaskade, and Markus Schulz, DJ Bander’s sound never grows stale.

While he has climbed to great heights in this arena, DJ Bander is more than just the man behind the decks. He is also a successful composer, producer, recording artist, and capital manager. When you consider his impressive marketing success, there’s no denying that DJ Bander is one creative entrepreneur who isn’t afraid to take risks.

To better understand his career up until this point, let’s dive into where it all began.

DJ Bander’s journey to becoming an acclaimed producer and business owner started in Brooklyn, New York. Through hard work and dedication, DJ Bander trained extensively in music composition at the prestigious Berklee College of Music (BAM) before moving on to the University of Southern California (USC) and the Musician’s Institute in LA. From there, he went on to produce and compose electronic beats before founding his own music production company, ‘Bander Productions.’

Flash forward, and DJ Bander has made quite the name for himself in the music industry. Early in his career, he earned recognition and appreciation by taking home a Hollywood Music Media Award for Best New Producer. He also successfully charted on Beat Port’s Top 100 twice with the singles ‘Last Sunset’ and ‘NASA.’ 

On top of that, DJ Bander’s sounds have been blasted through Las Vegas FM airwaves, leading to remixes and collaboration opportunities with major artists such as Katy Perry, Vanessa Daou, Jon B., Taryn Manning, and Automagic.

After proving he was more than ready for larger projects, DJ Bander partnered with industry giants including Sol Republic and Yamaha Music, where he has become an original ambassador alongside Skrillex. 

There’s no doubt that DJ Bander puts out nothing but fresh beats and is one to keep an eye out for within both the music and finance industries. 

While he has been met with remarkable success throughout his career, DJ Bander has soared to new heights within the past few years. Through his experience, he has cultivated a bridge between high finance, real estate stock investing, and hit music to create his own 8-figure media company and label. Better yet, his expertise in finance and sales strategies has allowed him to mentor and aid many other artists and entrepreneurs in building and developing their own successful brands.

With such wide-reaching experience within the music industry, it’s no surprise that DJ Bander has seen the swinging tides of the market as both a composer and producer. As he put it in his Forbes feature, the music business is a “rough game,” and competition within the industry poses quite a challenge, especially for up-and-coming artists. 

With that said, DJ Bander has shown time and time again that he can conquer any obstacle. In fact, his expertise in production, coupled with his entrepreneurial skills, has already proven invaluable when it comes to breaking through the noise.

Nadja Sayej’s new book, “Paparazzi Bitch,” casts an intimate look into the glitz and glamor of Paparazzi Photography

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

Nadja Sayej, a New York-based culture journalist with over 15 years of experience interviewing celebrities like Heid Klum, Susan Sarandon and Jerry Seinfeld, has released her latest photography book, “Paparazzi Bitch.” The book features over 100 candid photos of celebrities, art stars, and fashion luminaries, including Lady Gaga, Catherine Deneuve, Spike Lee, Karl Lagerfeld, and Tilda Swinton.

While she has been a journalist since 2003, Sayej’s journey into photography began in 2011 when a friend in Berlin gave her a Nikon camera. From then on, she brought her camera with her everywhere, from the Venice Film Festival to the Oscars. Her first trip to Art Basel Miami Beach in 2016 changed her perspective on photography and access to celebrities, and it became an annual pilgrimage for her to build her portfolio of celebrity photographs.

Sayej shoots for the photo agency Backgrid and has had her photos published in Vanity Fair London, V Magazine, and the New York Post. “Paparazzi Bitch” symbolizes her success as not only a female photographer, but also her determination to gain access to celebrities through her know-how, getting on the right guest lists, and being fast in the face of other photographers.

“I love photographing celebrities because they bring the hype to any party, film premieres, or red carpets,” says Sayej. “While many photographers and smartphones are always ready to shoot celebs when they make public appearances, I hope my shots offer something more – a genuine glance or behind-the-scenes shot that offers more insight to my viewers.”

“My book features photos of Sarah Jessica Parker, Marina Abramovic, Naomi Watts, Sofia Coppola, and more, and they’re shot in a different light than we’ve seen them through the male gaze,” said Sayej. “They’re not just objects of desire. I hope to raise awareness of all the women photographers who spend their lives behind the lens—often fighting for their spots on the red carpet, in Hollywood or on the streets of New York. Why are women photographers still overlooked in the entertainment industry?”

Nadja Sayej’s works feature unique, sporadic, in-the-moment shots that capture the essence of the modern-day paparazzi. Her photos are black-and-white shots of celebrities at galas, dinner parties, behind the scenes, and on the red carpet.

The art of paparazzi photography is more than the titles pop culture has attributed to it. “It’s more than just getting the money shot,” explains Sayej.

“I’m not actually a paparazzi photographer,” she says. “I’m a journalist who uses a paparazzi style to shoot celebs.”

But Sayej takes a different approach by capturing candid, unscripted moments, giving her photos a sense of authenticity and realism that sets them apart from the rest. Sayej’s photos also offer a fresh perspective on the lives of the celebrities she photographs, as she avoids the typical “object of desire” shots often seen in traditional paparazzi photography. She strives to capture genuine glances and behind-the-scenes moments that offer more insight into the lives of her subjects.

Nadja Sayej’s passion for photography is evident in her work, as she has spent years honing her skills and perfecting her craft. Her dedication and hard work have paid off, as she has become one of the most sought-after women photographers in the industry. With her ability to capture candid moments in a unique, artistic way, Sayej’s works are a must-see for anyone interested in the world of celebrity photography.

Sayej’s book is a must-read for culture fans, art fans, and celebrity and entertainment enthusiasts. Her unique style of paparazzi photography offers a fresh perspective on the lives of the celebrities who dominate our headlines. With her wit and quick reflexes, the author-artist is able to capture candid moments of celebrities in a way that other photographers cannot. Her book is a testament to her talent and the hard work she has put in over the years to make a name for herself in the industry.

About Nadja Sayej

Nadja Sayej is a New York-based writer, journalist, and photographer with over 15 years of experience in the industry. With a background in culture journalism, she has interviewed over 500 celebrities, from Salma Hayek to Susan Sarandon and David Lynch. Her work has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, Vanity Fair, VICE, and VOGUE, where she has covered celebrity news, music, film, TV, and more from a critical pop culture lens.

Sayej is the author of several books, including “Red Carpet Ho,” a collection of stories from the red carpet as a woman photographer, and “The Celebrity Interview Book.” Her latest book, “Paparazzi Bitch,” is her first photo book, and it was released in the 100th year of the first-ever film premiere red carpet, which was for Robin Hood at the Egyptian Theater in 1922.

Sayej’s writing is known for its hilarious commentary and unforgettable anecdotes from A-list celebrities, from Robert de Niro to Heidi Klum, all captured in poppy, entertaining detail. Her works give a fresh perspective on the lives of celebrities and offer a glimpse into the world of celebrity photography.

“La Vida No Es Complicada,” the Single by Clinton Benoit: A Bold Take on Latin Music and a Call for Unity

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

Haitian musician Clinton Benoit has made a bold move with his latest single, “La Vida No Es Complicada,” by infusing heavy metal guitar into the traditional merengue genre, hailing from the Dominican Republic. This fusion is not only a fresh take on music, but also a cultural, diplomatic move by Benoit’s to bridge the gap between the two countries.

Clinton’s 2010 album, Funky Konpa, was a blend of rock and compas direct, and he continues to push boundaries with his newest track. He worked closely with Dominican producer Romanti Montero and various Dominican musicians, as well as his bandmate Ralphe Conde, to add a Haitian compas groove to the heavy metal guitar.

His sound was inspired by his roots. Clinton Benoit’s new single, “La Vida No Es Complicada,” is not just another musical endeavor; it’s a mission. Clinton’s dream of fostering unity and reconciliation between his homeland of Haiti and the Dominican Republic through music is the heart and soul of this single. Growing up in Jacmel, a city that straddles the border between the two countries, Clinton was exposed to the rich and diverse musical culture of the Caribbean. This experience has shaped him into an artist who is not afraid to experiment and blend different genres, as seen in his fusion of heavy metal guitar and merengue music in his latest release. Clinton’s past experience in high school in Haiti, where he started the first band to perform Latin music live in Haiti, has also played a role in his decision to release this new single. Clinton Benoit’s new album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a call to arms to bring people together and promote harmony.

Music is a universal language that has the power to bring people together and unite cultures. It is a medium that transcends borders, languages, and backgrounds, and creates a shared experience that can be enjoyed by all. With the ability to break down barriers and promote understanding and acceptance of different cultures, it brings people of diverse backgrounds together, encouraging them to learn about and appreciate one another’s traditions, customs, and beliefs.

Merengue, the musical genre of the Dominican Republic, is a lively and upbeat style of music that has become a staple in the Caribbean and Latin American music scene. The origins of Merengue can be traced back to the late 19th century, and it has since evolved to include various influences such as African rhythms, European melodies, and even American Jazz. Merengue is characterized by its fast tempo, and syncopated rhythms played on drums and the accordion. The genre has a wide range of sub-genres, including traditional, modern, and electronic Merengue. With the incorporation of modern elements such as hip-hop and reggaeton, Merengue has become a favorite among young audiences. Merengue is not just limited to the Dominican Republic; it has also become popular in other Latin American countries, the Caribbean, and even in the United States. With Clinton Benoit’s latest single, “La Vida No Es Complicada,” he has successfully integrated his love for Heavy Metal guitar and merengue music.

The Haitian-born star has always been vocal about his love for his country and culture through his music, and this collaboration is no different. By bringing together the sounds of the two neighboring nations, Clinton Benoit hopes to ease political tensions and promote peace on the island of Hispaniola.

“La Vida No Es Complicada” is now available on all major music platforms, and fans can also catch the music video on Clinton Benoit’s YouTube channel. With his passion for music and desire for unity, Clinton Benoit is definitely an artist to watch in the Latin music scene.

www.clintonbenoit.com 

About Clinton Benoit

Clinton Benoit was born on July 20, 1973, in Jacmel, Haiti. He is a musician, producer, and singer known for his innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music. He first gained recognition with his 2010 album Funky Konpa, a blend of rock and compas direct. He continues to push boundaries with his latest single, “La Vida No Es Complicada,” a fusion of heavy metal guitar and Merengue, a traditional Dominican genre. Clinton Benoit hopes to bridge the gap between Haiti and the Dominican Republic through his music.

Kasdyn Click, Author of “Saddlebrook” talks inspiration, real-life events and past relationships

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

Meet Kasdyn Click, the author of the captivating equestrian novel “Saddlebrook.” From horse enthusiast to successful author, Kasdyn takes us on a journey of inspiration and real-life events that shaped his debut novel. Get to know the man behind the book and the women who have played a role in his life, including Olympic Equestrian Athlete Torrance Watkins. Kasdyn opens up about love, life, and the equestrian industry in this candid interview:

Interviewer: Kasdyn what was your inspiration for the book Saddlebrook?

Kasdyn Click: After some time reflecting, I found out that I love the equestrian industry. I’m a horse enthusiast, I don’t like to ride them, but there just awesome to be around so I wanted to do something that would get the horse community involved.

Interviewer: Is Saddlebrook based off real-life events?

Kasdyn Click: Yeah, I would say that a lot of the scenarios, places, things, occurrences have a lot of similarities to real life events that have happened.  But not entirely, it is hard to come up with anything without having experienced it yourself, so I tend to believe that most fiction books or movies stem from a real-life event.

Interviewer: Is your current significant other one of the characters in Saddlebrook?

Kasdyn Click: If I was seeing someone, I would probably try to incorporate her in the book in some sort of way, shape or form.  However, I am very much single and have not been with or in a serious relationship with any girl since around August 2021.  Right now, I am focusing on meeting new people, traveling, getting faster on my dirt bike, and enjoying life.  The last 8 years or so, I have grinded when it came to work, and I have taken about a year now where I have been grateful to have had the time to relax more.  It isn’t 16-hour workdays anymore, on average I would say I try to be productive about 10 hours a day right now.

Interviewer: Have you been in a serious relationship in the past?

Kasdyn Click: Yup, I have been in two serious relationships in my life.

Interviewer: Okay! So, what were they like and how did you meet them? Do you think maybe one of them you will end up getting back together with?

Kasdyn Click:  My first serious relationship was with a woman named Annie Thibault and at the time she was from Goshen, Connecticut.  She was from the country, had two horses, very laid back and a nurturing personality.  I met her around 10pm during a snowstorm.  I owned a snow plowing business at the time and it was my job that night to plow and then salt a parking lot.  There was a brand-new Jeep spinning donuts in the parking lot, and I drove up to the driver side door of the jeep and it was Annie driving the jeep.  I asked for her phone number to take her out on a date to Chili’s and we were together for about two years.

My second serious relationship was with a woman named Jordan Hamer and at the time she was from The Plains, Virginia where she trained with Olympic Equestrian Athlete Torrance Watkins.  She was from the country, had two horses, and a more uptight personality like a perfectionist type person.  I met her at a coffee shop, and I remembered that she smelled like hay fresh from the barn and I think it reminded me of horses again.  She was standing in front of me in the coffee line and after she got her coffee, I said to her, “Miss your real pretty” and it made her laugh which got me the cell phone digits!  I remember she was driving a nice classic Blue Ford pick-up truck when she drove away from the coffee shop, I was also with her for about two years.

As for getting back with one of the girls I dated, I don’t think that is possible! They are both happily married to my understanding, and I heard that Annie now has a kid or two as well!

Interviewer: Did you happen to get a chance to meet Olympic Equestrian Athlete Torrance Watkins?

Sourced Photo

Kasdyn Click: Now that I think of it, I am pretty sure I did.  I’m not very well at remembering names, but I can feel it when I am talking to property owner or business owner when I am somewhere.  One winter after Jordan Hamer and I broke up, we were still trying to make things work.  I was in a Hino 268 Hook Lift truck, and I drove it to Virginia to pick up some materials for the dumpster business I owned at the time.  When I was there, I got the opportunity to stay a few days in one of the living quarters at Torrance’s property there.  I am about 85% sure that Torrance was asking me about the nice dumpster truck I was driving as it was brand new at the time and Torrance told me something very funny about Jordan that I never knew about.  (Torrance and Jordan grew up together, I believe Jordan was training with Watkins since her first pony as a little girl) (See below for a picture of Torrance Watkins)

Interviewer:  Have you met anyone who sparks your eye moving forward that you might want to spend the rest of your life with?

Kasdyn Click: Not yet! One of my Best Friends Nicole Smith from Boston, Massachusetts the daughter of the owner of Factory Five Racing car building company is Instagram famous. Once or twice a year she invites me to a get together with people our age! So, I’m hoping to possibly meet someone at this year’s 4th of July event!

Interviewer:  Well, what about Nicole Smith then? Would you date her?

Kasdyn Click: Oh, in a heartbeat she’s awesome!  She is a beautiful woman for sure! Blonde, long, and silky-smooth hair, but she too is also in a very committed relationship and engaged now!  She is one of the Saddlebrook Team members helping to edit the book to make sure the novel wraps together nicely.  After breakup with ex Jordan, Nicole was one of the only people who still included me in the horse industry.  At the time, Nicole was just getting into horseback riding and would tell me about her riding stories after a long day of training!  She doesn’t talk about it, but Nicole has been going through chemotherapy for Colon Cancer recently and support to her would be much appreciated through this hard time.  Nicole and her best friend Steph manage a Horse Boarding facility all on their own about 30 minutes west of Boston. (See below a picture of Nicole and Steph)

Kasdyn

Sourced Photo

Interviewer: Is there anything else you wanted to share with the readers of Saddlebrook?

Kasdyn Click:  The support I’m getting on the book from the Equestrian Industry is awesome.  I wasn’t expecting it at all to be honest.  If anyone wants to get involved to help with the book, there’s an email address on my website to contact! Be safe out there. 

As the interview comes to a close, it’s clear that Kasdyn Click is a force to be reckoned with in the literary world. His passion for the equestrian industry and his dedication to hard work have resulted in the creation of a novel that has captured the hearts of readers everywhere. With the digital landscape constantly changing, it’s inspiring to see an author like Kasdyn who is willing to adapt and evolve with the times. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for this talented author and the impact he will continue to have on the literary world.

For more information you can visit the official website: www.KasdynClick.com  

The Ambition-Fueled Journey of Stanley Donkor, Entrepreneur and Fitness Mogul

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

Ambition is a powerful force that drives individuals to reach their goals in life and career. It is the burning desire to achieve something great, to push boundaries, and to strive for excellence. Furthermore, it can propel a person to take risks, overcome obstacles, and persevere through challenges, and it is the driving force that can turn a dream into a reality. With ambition, the sky is the limit.

At just 23 years old, Stanley Donkor has already made a name for himself as a successful entrepreneur from Westerville, Ohio. A recent graduate of The Ohio State University, Stanley is the driving force behind Stanley Donkor Fitness, a company that has helped over 5,000 individuals transform their lifestyles and approach to diet and fitness. With a mantra of “Find Your Inner Strength,” the business has gained a massive following on Instagram and reached seven-figure heights.

But Stanley’s ambitions continue beyond. He’s also the founder and co-owner of 325 Exotics, an exotic car rental company with the goal of giving the younger generation access to the luxury vehicles of their dreams. Growing up with a passion for exotic cars, Stanley is now making it possible for others to live out their dreams, too.

Stanley is dedicated to giving back to the community through outreach events such as an annual toy drive and aims to inspire and motivate the youth to believe in themselves and their potential.

For Stanley, becoming his own boss was all about the freedom and flexibility it offered. He values family above all else, and being his own boss allows him to care for his loved ones just as they take care of him. “One of my favorite sayings and how I like to impact the community is, ‘Where I come from, it’s an accomplishment to get a job with a name tag, so I decided to put my name on the Impossible instead,'” he shared. “What I mean by this is you create your own future and your own worth, not people around you,” he explained.

Tina Turn Up Navigating Itself Towards the Top

NY Weekly Staff on January 16, 2023

People say that the only way to grow is to get out of one’s comfort zone and experience the challenging reality of the world. Growing means flourishing, and flourishing only happens after experiencing the obstacles, struggles, and hardships that the world gives. Taking the first step is already a difficult decision to make, but being able to walk towards success while pursuing one’s passion proves that it is worth the courage. This is how Tina Turn Up navigated itself towards the top.

Founded by Valentina Ferrer, Tina Turn Up is a company built from love and passion. Producing quality music and transmitting positive energies to its listeners, Tina Turn up motivates its audience to keep on going. Using its platform to influence the public, the company empowers women through the message of their songs.

Tina Turn Up’s history roots back to Valentina’s teenage experiences. At a young age, she immigrated to the United States, leaving her whole life behind. She was expected to adapt and survive, and instead of looking at this change as a challenge, she used it as an opportunity to grow, learn, and pursue her passion. This is a milestone to the establishment of Tina Turn Up’s.

Confident in the company’s desire and passion, Tina Turn Up’s takes pride in considering itself as its very own competition. Unlike other companies in the music industry, Tina Turn Up’s is focused on getting better each day and improving based on the quality of music it provides and not on what other companies do. One’s greatest critic is itself, and Tina Turn Up’s uses this as an instrument to keep on making improvements. Motivated by passion and love, Valentina’s hard work to make Tina Turn Up’s successful does not feel like work at all.

Tina Turn Up’s is looking for music lovers who aspire to work without really feeling like they are working. Building a team to come up with content ideas, write new music, and visualize upcoming videos, the company aims to produce unique and quality music.  A believer that critics pave the way for improvements and represent growth, Tina Turn Up’s stands firm on its ideals that multiple brains think better than one.

With Valentina’s continuous pursuit of passion and the dream team who will make it possible, Tina Turn Up’s goal is to release new music every month and be one of the top artists by the end of this year, 2021. Keeping their eyes to the goal, Tina Turn Up’s also works to motivate everyone to pursue their dreams, enhance their knowledge, and perfect their skills regardless of where they came from. For people with the desire and drive to succeed, anything is possible.

The path to success is never an easy feat. However, the only way for someone to succeed is to learn how to take the first step. The first step is the hardest one, and after one finds oneself taking it, all the other steps will automatically follow. Tina Turn Up’s is built from passion and love, and taking the first step to go out and make its name in the music industry navigated its way towards the top.

For more information about Tina Turn Up’s, you may visit her Instagram.

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