Susan Sarandon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Cruise… New Jersey has launched many superstar careers. It’s with this in mind, that “In The Cookie Jar” will be featuring some talents whose roots are New Jersey, but have gone off to some pretty amazing things.
First up: Jovanni Jimennez Pedraza, who has gone from local Paterson, New Jersey boy to manager of one of the biggest nightclubs in New York City – Industry.Here, Cookie chats with Jovanni on how he balances his daily life with managing New York City’s newest hotspot, Industry.
Jovanni, it’s great to sit down with you. How has the world of nightclub management been treating you?
It’s been an exhilarating experience! Industry is a great atmosphere and I work with the greatest group of people.
You’re originally a “Jersey boy”. What part of Jersey are you from? How does it differ from where you live currently?
I lived in Paterson, which is pretty much opposite of where I live now. In New York, you’re constantly on the go, and I really enjoy the fast pace of it.
You’re now the manager of one of New York’s hottest new spots, Industry. Tell me a little about the club. How is it going to bring back the nightlife of years past that many people are looking for?
Owners Bob Pontarelli and Stephen Heighton also own Barracuda and Elmo, and started their career with the legendary Crowbar in the East Village. Industry combines the best elements of everything they’re ever done. If anyone can shake things up, these guys can! I definitely think Industry raises the bar.
You guys have had some amazing DJ’s at Industry; DJ’s Scotty Rox, Kevin Graves; who is on your “DJ Wish List” to spin at Industry?
Don’t forget DJ Steven Paul! We do have amazing DJ’s; I wouldn’t say I have a wish list, I just like good music with a great crowd, just like we have at Industry.
Music-wise who is in your current Ipod rotation right now?
Pink (Raise Your Glass), Robyn ( Stars 4-Ever), Lady Gaga (Judas) Britney Spears (Till the World Ends-The Femme Fatale Remix), Carrie Underwood (UnAppolgize), Jessie J (Price Tag ), Cee-Lo (Bright Lights Bigger City) and Glee (I Feel Pretty/ Unpretty)
Susan Sarandon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Cruise… New Jersey has launched many superstar careers. It’s with this in mind, that “In The Cookie Jar” will be featuring some talents whose roots are New Jersey, but have gone off to some pretty amazing things.Summer is always a huge time for the Jersey Shore, Asbury Park, Atlantic City, etc. Have any plans to come join the Jersey boys this summer?
Of course Asbury Park! Watermark for their cocktails and the gorgeous view, Paradise for a the good music and my favorite bartender Kelly Martin making me some wicked drinks!
“The A-List New York” was a big summer series last year. Did you find it to be an accurate representation of our community?
Our community is as diverse and inclusive a group of people as any on the planet. I think the show’s primary goal is to be good TV. Everyone talks about it!
In your non-nightclub days, what will we find you doing?
Ha! Probably thinking about getting back to work! Its a really, really exciting time for us right now and a lot of boys are looking for a great night out. But when I’m not running around for work, I’m hitting the gym hard or spending quality time with my boyfriend…..
First up: Jovanni Jimennez Pedraza, who has gone from local Paterson, New Jersey boy to manager of one of the biggest nightclubs in New York City – Industry.
