Week of June 28 – July 05, 2010

GEM is SOOO excited about this 4th of July celebration… We’re ready to look great, eat fantastically, and dance the night away.

_____________________

FREE FOOD & PERKS:

A hit with New Yorkers and visitors alike, the Southwest Porch is a gorgeous, comfortable space within Bryant Park where folks can relax in one of their rocking chairs or porch swings.

Their casual menu offers 15 handcrafted specialty sandwiches, along with a variety of snacks and desserts. Enjoy a uniquely crafted beverage from their cocktail menu, a glass of wine, or a pint of the Southwest Brew along with a variety of snacks and desserts. Summer Menu.

Southwest Porch is teaming up with Southwest Airlines to provide you with three days of specials and perks!

Monday, June 28: Business Select Day
*Come learn about the premium benefits of their Business Select fare, and enjoy the following perks: They're giving away Yankees tickets! 8 winners will be drawn during lunch (12pm-2pm) and an additional 8 winners will be drawn during happy hour (5:30pm-7:30pm). Come out there for a chance to win!

*Get a Southwest Airlines souvenir cup with the purchase of a beverage during lunch (12pm-2pm) or happy hour (5:30pm-7:30pm).

Wednesday, June 30: "Appy" Hour
Have our App? Get a free app! Just show that you have the Southwest iPhone® App on your phone, and you'll get a free appetizer of your choice between 6:00-8:00pm. Plus, they'll be giving away two pairs of roundtrip tickets with Southwest Airlines every hour during "Appy" Hour!

Thursday, July 1: Anniversary Cookout
'WichCraft will be grilling sliders and serving up sweet treats to Southwest Porch patrons today, all complimentary (until supplies run out)! They'll also be giving away fun Southwest Airlines prizes (including free tickets) throughout the day, so come out and celebrate to win your free perks!

Southwest Porch Hours of Operation:
Monday - Saturday, 12:00-9:00pm
Monday - Sunday, 12:00-6:00pm

Location: Southwest Corner of Bryant Park - 40th Street at 6th Avenue

Food and beverage service provided by: 'WichCraft

____

FASHION:

The idea of a denim dress sounds like a rejected fad from the 80s not worthy of reviving, or something horrendous your mother used to dress you up in for Picture Day at school… but this season’s denim dresses are a must-see and must-get! Chambray stretch denim, and a variety of light and dark washes makes the material more versatile than ever for a slew of different dress styles, from body-contoured to even cowl-necked and cocktail styles (who’d have thunk)! Chic details like sweet ruffles and exposed zippers make the look anything but dated and transform the traditionally casual fabric to something unexpectedly upscale!

I love the versatility of this Anlo Ruffle Neck Dress, available at Nordstrom — because its ability to be easily dressed up or down, depending on the use of some strategic summer accessories, make it the perfect summer buy. It would be the perfect dress to rock at a 4th of July barbecue with a pair of cork wedges or gladiator sandals! For a sexier night-out look, the Nanette Lepore Bell Dive Dress, available at Bloomingdales — hugs the body in all the right ways and adds visual interest with an exposed zipper down the front. Whether casual or dressy, this season’s dresses are bound to change your perception of denim!


SAMPLE SALE: Semi-Annual FENDI Warehouse Sale

When: 6/29/10 at 3:00pm to 7/1/10 at 3:00pm

Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, North Pavilion - 110 W 19th St
Phone: (212) 463-0071

The Metropolitan Pavilion invites you to the semi-annual warehouse sale for Fendi. Choose from GEMtastic collections including Women's Ready to Wear, Handbags, Small Leather Goods, and Fur.

Tuesday, June 29th, 3-8pm Wednesday, June 30th, 8am-8pm Thursday, July 1st, 8am-3pm


_____

CELEBRATION: 4TH OF JULY!

Come join Lower Deck Productions at their "4th of July Fireworks IndepenDANCE Cruise" aboard the multi-level and climate controlled boat – The Paddle Wheel Queen. This is a great opportunity for you and your loved one to witness NYC's breathtaking fireworks display on the water first hand.

WHEN: SUNDAY, JULY 4, 2010

WHERE: Docking from the Skyport Marina, - 23rd Street & FDR Drive, (East Side of Manhattan)

WHAT TIME: Boarding begins at 5:00PM and Docks at 10:00pm

HOW MUCH: Tickets are $130.00, EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

ADULT ADMISSION: 21 & Over || Trendy Attire

WHAT DOES THE ADMISSION GET YOU:
- 5 Hour Top Shelf Open Bar
- Complimentary Appetizers
- Live DJ
- Amazing View of the 4th of July Fireworks
-This Cruise is NOT a sit-down dinner cruise.

TO PURCHASE tickets click here.

For Info Call: 917-567-7459 or email 4thofjuly@lowerdeckproductions.com

_____

THEATRE:

Thalia Spanish Theatre is Queen's original home for Latino culture. They are the first and only bilingual Hispanic theatre in Queens, serving one of the most diverse communities in the United States, including more than 600,000 Hispanics from every Spanish-speaking nation in the world. In 29 years they have produced more than 100 productions of the best Spanish plays, zarzuelas (Spanish operettas) and folklore shows of music and dance, and earned national recognition as a leader in New York City’s celebrated Spanish theatre movement. Our mission is to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of Spanish and Latin American culture with unique productions of plays, musicals and dance. Theatre classes for children are available this summer, so for more information about the available programs and to learn more about this theatre please visit the Thalia Spanish Theatre website here.

Support the Arts. You can also help the Thalia Spanish Theatre win a caring donation from Chase’s Community Giving Program! In order to cast your vote, you must search for the theatre by name, and be logged into Facebook prior to voting: http://www.facebook.com/ChaseCommunityGiving. Prizes range from $20K-250K USD.

______

MUSICA:

GUAJIRO: Bilingual punk rockers Guajiro (pronounced GÜA-hero) don't consider themselves a Latin Rock band, but a Miami band. The Hialeah, Florida quartet is comprised of bassist Jorge Gonzales, vocalist-guitarist Willy Lopez, drummer Douglas MacKinnon and vocalist-guitarist David Santos. Regional pride aside, Guajiro's punk rock does have some Latin flair: they're mostly Cuban-American.

Guajiro's debut album, Material Subversivo, takes a cue from old school English and recent American punk, injecting melodic choruses with populist politics. While "Espanglish" bands aren't quite mainstream yet, Guajiro is making some important strides: they've played with Rancid and Flogging Molly, charted on CMJ, and played on the ubiquitous Warped Tour. Learn more about this band here: www.myspace.com/guajiro

FIDEL NADAL: Nadal was born into an academic family in Buenos Aires, his mother was an anthropologist and his father a film director and a leading fighter for the recognition of the rights of black Argentines. According to his own recalls, he was heavily influenced by the music listened to his parents, mainly blues and jazz. Ideology held by Fidel Nadal involves deep Rastafarian culture initiated in many countries like Jamaica and Haiti, where Fidel reflects the love music as a way of life and reality; one of his inspirations, as with many reggae groups, is Bob Marley. His main influences are related to the reggae rhythms and Afro-Argentine culture.

In 1984 he played for the first time as a singer in a band. A year later he founded the band Todos Tus Muertos, which blended in their music reggae with punk influences and samples. With this mix, the group was very successful and already their first album in 1988 succeeded her a record deal with Universal Music. Influenced by reggae rhythms and the music of the Afro Argentine community, Nadals is best known for his work with Todos Tus Muertos. Created in the 1980s and separated in 2000, the band produced 6 albums before its dissolution. In its final years, Lumumba appeared on the rasta stage with Lumumba. In its short but productive history, it released 3 albums which met with approval by followers of reggae, but then it was dissolved. In the last albums of Todos Tus Muertos and Lumumba, Fidel felt the need to play more reggae and leave the hard music behind, but when both projects disappeared, he decided to go on by himself.

In 2001, this new project was born, with a completely rastafarian image and style. The same year, he launched three albums, Selassie I Dios Todopoderoso, with lots of reggae and lyrics with pure rasta feeling, including a cover of Mexican group Los Tigres del Norte, Cuando gime la raza, and Cabeza negra, with numerous guest musicians (which gave more variety to the album and made it different from the first one). Finally, Repatriación appeared, with a number of collaborators, and with another cover of a Tigres del Norte tune, La Puerta Negra. In 2008 he released the hit single International Love, off the album of the same name, whose dreamier/electronic sound has made it a hit on many Latino radio stations and attracted newer non-reggae listeners. In 2009, his hit single International Love was included on the "FIFA Trax" on the latest edition of EA SPORTS FIFA games, FIFA 10. Learn more about this band here: www.myspace.com/fidelnadal

Week of June 21 - June 27, 2010

EXHIBIT

ANDY WARHOL: THE LAST DECADE
The Brooklyn Museum is on a roll with one hot, “must-see” exhibit after another. This time the focus is on American artist; Andy Warhol (1928 – 1987). Warhol’s art defined popular culture with distinct images ranging from Campbell’s soup cans to portraits of Hollywood’s elite like Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe. Andy Warhol: The Last Decade is the first U.S. museum survey to examine the late work of the artist. One of my favorite Andy Warhol collaborations in the 80’s was with Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose painted words and graffiti-like skulls made a great contrast to Warhol’s interest in abstraction. Through September 12th.

Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Pkwy at Washington Avenue. (718) 638-5000.
For more information on hours and admission visit www.brooklynmuseum.org .


FWACATA!! LOOK AT MY HANDS
Featured as the visual art exhibition component of the Dominican Village at the Abrazo Interno Gallery. FWACATA!! Look At My Hands, is both a visual arts exhibit and a comic book, addressing Caribbean history through sequential art. Comic books were first published in the United States around the 1930s. By the 60’s it had become clear that they were not really all that “comic”, and that their artists were really graphic novelists creating what Will Eisner later called sequential art. The featured contemporary Latino comic book creators focus on hands, those hands that played the drumbeat of Caribbean history. Opening reception and comic book premiere, Friday, June 25th , 7p.m. – 11 p.m. Exhibit through July 9th.

Abrazo Interno Gallery at Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & Educational Center
107 Suffolk Street, between Rivington and Delancey, New York, NY
(212)260-4080 or http://fwacata.blogspot.com. Free Admission.



MUSIC

BOBBY SANABRIA & QUINTETO OKOBIO
In the heart of NYC’s El Barrio is one of the true Latin Jazz GEMS in town; FB LOUNGE. Legends from lead vocalist Herman Olivera to Grammy Award winner Dave Valentin have graced the stage on any given night. Dance the night and your troubles away to Quinteto Okobio and multi-Grammy nominee Bobby Sanabria's explosive musical brotherhood as they explore jazz and Latin, Latin and jazz, and beyond. June 23rd.


FB LOUNGE, 172 E. 106 Street, between 3rd and Lexington Avenues. (212) 410-7292.
Doors open at 5 p.m., shows 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Dinner reservations (212) 348-3929. $10, $5 w/ student I.D. or WBGO membership card.



WATER TAXI BEACH
Don't let the idea of a summer stay-cation get you down. Summer in the city, unparalleled city views, and long summer beach nights are the perfect recipe for fun from sun to sunset. With locations in South Street Seaport, Long Island City and Governors Island, the Water Taxi Beach is easily accessible and the perfect sandy, “beach-like playgrounds” for 21+ crowd this summer. Check out the website for live performances at these various locations throughout the summer. www.watertaxibeach.com


CASTING CALL

“QUIERO MIS QUINCES”
Calling all Quiceañera's for new MTV Tr3s season of ”Quiero Mis Quinces”. If you're becoming a Quinceañera and you're planning to have the most memorable, incredible and special party of your life, MTV Tr3s wants to know about it. Email MTV Tr3s immediately at mtv3casting@mtvnmix.com and tell us why your party should be one of the select few featured on “Quiero Mis Quinces Season 5”. For more information click on this link http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1628234/20091214/story.jhtml .


CONFERENCE 


LAMC (Latin Alternative Music Conference)
The 11th Annual LAMC returns to New York City on July 6 - 10, 2010. As in past years, LAMC features panels and exhibitions, concerts, parties and art highlighting the best of Latin Alternative. LAMC is the only major conference geared towards the marketing of Spanish-language alternative music - the voice of today's Latinos. This five-day event providing networking opportunities with the genre's leading artists, label executives, journalists, managers, retailers and programmers, is the most extensive gathering. July 6th through July 10th. For conference event locations and time visit www.latinalternative.com. Online registration $99 through June 30th,after June 30th walk-up registration will be $299. 


Week of June 14 - 20, 2010

FASHION

Badichi, the new atelier and retail spot offers fashion-conscious men and women the opportunity to design their own belts and tailor them to perfect fit in less than two minutes. “Our new belt boutique offers a fashion concept that New York City is currently lacking, the chance to design their own belts and fit them to perfect size in less than two minutes,” says Yinon Badichi, Managing Director of Badichi.

Housed in a quaint boutique located in the heart of Soho, the walls are lined with a vast variety of handcrafted, unique and edgy buckles and immense amount of fine leathers from Italy, India and South America. With the opportunity to put their design skills to the test, men & women can both create their own belts to fit their unique style. From skulls and handcuffs to painted florals and encrusted crystals, the intricately detailed buckles add variation to the many options of leather waist bands.

Badichi Customized Belts is located at 159 Prince Street, New York, NY 10012; 212.533.2107; www.badichibelts.com

____

HEALTH

Our skin is our largest organ. It protects us from injury, infections, and regulates our body’s temperature. It stores water, fat, and Vitamin D. But for the one in five Americans who will be diagnosed with skin cancer within the next year, skin is a painful reminder of past sun damage.

More than 90 percent of skin cancer is caused by sun exposure, when sun damage may be the easiest to prevent. Robert Miller, M.D. of Wellspring Oncology weighs in, “Most people are surprised to learn that even UV exposure over short periods of time can still dramatically increase the risk for cancer.”

Due to the amount of sun damage that can accumulate earlier in life, children and teens need to be protected. “Many cases of cancer are connected to severe burns from the adolescent stage in life,” says Miller. “Men are also twice as likely to develop skin cancer as women. It is the most common form of cancer in men over 50.” Miller still advises, “There is no such thing as a safe tan that involves any form of UV exposure. Darker pigmentation is the skin’s way of protecting itself- it signifies damage. The only safe tan is a sunless tan.”

Try one of the new spray formulas like the Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Clear Spray Sunscreen. The can sprays at any angle offering quick and even coverage formula is very water resistant and is available in SPFs 30, 50 and 80 available at www.amazon.com/beauty.

____

EVENTS

This June 17th is Eyebrow Intervention Day at NYC Duane Reade LOOK Boutique Ramy Brow Bars. Celebrity makeup artist and New York City “Brow King”, Ramy Gafni and his team of brow specialist will be at each location providing brow services from 11am – 7pm at the following locations:

Eigth Avenue Between 16th & 17th Streets Phone: 212-929-0650
1350 Broadway at 35th Street Phone (212) 695-6346
51 West 51st Street at 6th avenue Phone (212) 582-8525

In anticipation of the event, we asked Ramy some of our burning brow questions:

*What 'trends' if any are you seeing for brows this summer and into fall? The trend is for classic brows which are full but with an obvious, but soft, arch.

*What's the single most important tip for women when getting their brows shaped? Express your desire to your brow expert, then let him or her work their magic without interupting. The person who gets the best result is the one who says, "You're the expert, do your thing!"

*Do you recommend tweezing, waxing, threading, etc? What are the benefits/disadvantages for each method? Waxing is for cars. Threading is for flossing your teeth. You get the most precision with tweezing and trimming. It offers the most control and is the gentlest method on the delicate skin around the eye area.

*What products do you recommend for filling in, definition, etc? What are the benefits? My bestselling brow product is the Perfect Brow Wand. It's a double ended pen that has a universally flattering brow filler on one end and a highlighter on the other. I also have the Miracle Brow Compact, which is more of a pomade and it comes with a double ended brush for filling and blending. The benefit of filling your brows is that it can make even a perfect eyebrow look more dramatic and finished. It's also key if you are filling in a gap or covering strays as you grow in a skimpy eyebrow.

For more on Ramy and the Ramy Spa visit www.ramy.com

____

TECHNOLOGY

As gift for dads or grads, what makes FLO TV Personal Television cool is that you can enjoy TV wherever you go. Whether it’s a 2-hour delay at the airport, time on the treadmill at the gym or with your kids in the grocery store, a handheld TV comes in, well, handy. But you don’t always have to be out to tune in. With integrated speakers and a built-in adjustable stand, the FLO TV Personal Television is at home wherever you are. Put it on the counter while you’re making dinner, on the vanity while you’re getting ready or at your desk while you’re working.

The FLO TV Personal Television is about freedom. It’s about fun. It’s mobile TV, there is no waiting and no downloading. With the FLO TV Personal Television and a subscription to the FLO TV service, you can watch the shows you love on the channels you know at the touch of a button. For a limited-time, you can buy a FLO TV Personal Television (PTV) for only $199 with 12 months of the Essentials package included, featuring four great channels: ABC Mobile, CBS Mobile, FOX Mobile and NBC 2Go. Upgrade at any time to the Ultimate package for a full programming line-up for just $14.99 per month. Visit www.flotv.com for details on where to buy.

____

BEAUTY

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend! So it makes sense that the new Smooth ‘N Shine Diamond Luster Poof Eraser, $4.99 available at Drugstores nationwide, is not only inspired by diamonds, its formulated with quartz crystal to give hair prismatic shine while offering heat protection up to 425 degrees.

Now how do we use it on our hair? We asked Larry Sims, Celebrity Hairstylist for Smooth 'N Shine. Sims has worked on the tresses of many Latinas including: Dayanara Torres, Christina Milian, Eva Longoria, and Jennifer Lopez.

Sims offered us the following taming tips: "As we move into the summer heat, it's essential to be on top of your hair game. To give that everlasting beautiful first impression, I suggest using Smooth 'N Shine Diamond Luster Poof Eraser. This product is amazing because it works on both wet and dry hair. It's 425 degree heat protector agent protects your hair from daily thermal styling procedures. It also provides nourishment and is infused with wheat protein and vitamin E agents. Lastly, your hair will look its best with benefits of anti-frizz and quartz crystals that are infused in this product as well. The end results are beautiful, healthy, shiny, hair."

Week of June 09 – June 15, 2010

Last week we had a blast shopping for the latest trends and eye-popping designs, just in time for the theatre debut of Sex and the City. Now that we’ve got our fashionista flair in check, let’s focus on what else is flourishing with the summer heat! This week, we found ourselves loving these rare GEMs.

------------------------

SUMMER GEAR:

These summer days are getting hotter and hotter by the minute, so why not visit your local pool, beach, resort or country club? Well, if you ate one too many hotdogs two weeks ago during the holiday weekend, you may feel a little inhibited. You should shake that feeling off – and revive your GEM-tastic flair with this fun and breezy “Geoffrey” drawstring tunic. This black and white swimwear coverup is the perfect length for petite or tall ladies alike (as you can wear it higher or lower on your hips. The shoulder and collar bone cutouts give you an air of elegance that’s sure to turn heads everywhere you go. Just don’t forget to wear matte “Diva” red lipstick, and a white large brim hat to top it all off this summer. For more information about the “Geoffrey” and for pricing information click here.


SUMMER RELAXATION:

Yoga at the Great Lawn – aaahhhh, peace and relaxation. As a free event, on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, more than 10,000 yoga-lovers will gather on Central Park's Great Lawn. With such a high attendance, this event could become the largest event of its kind in yoga's history.

The class, starting at 6 PM, will be taught by Elena Bower, who has trained celebrities like Naomi Watts and Christy Turlington. Free yoga mats, courtesy of JetBlue, will be given to all attendees. Also, the event will feature performances by Buddy Wakefield Wah!, O'Konsi Rhythms and others.

The event is open to all ages and skills level. But, unfortunately, to participate you need to register in advance for your chance to win your spot. Visit the registration page to do so; drawings will be held at random. For those of you who live outside of the metro NYC area, you can win a trip to this event, courtesy of Flavorpil by registering before this Wednesday, June 9th here.

FOOD:

In both decor and spirit, Industria Argentina may be New York’s most thoroughly modern Argentine steakhouse. The presentation begins with a miniature flaky empanada delivered as an amuse-bouche—it’s more artful than it sounds. The tuna “Tiradito”, often a rustic raw fish jumble at other places, is a delicate appetizer that layers frothy avocado puree atop silky tuna slices. Sliver-thin oven-dried tomato is added to a ramekin of oozing smoked provolone, making for another stellar starter. For the main event, the kitchen hews more closely to the classic steakhouse formula, serving flame-kissed steaks with chimichurri “picante”. Check out the Tuesday night “Parrillada” special, a mixed grill for two, featuring a platter of lamb chops, sausages, hanger steak and short ribs. Hours of operation are Mon–Sat noon–5pm, 6pm–midnight.

Industria Argentina - 329 Greenwich St (between Duane and Jay Sts ) - Tribeca | Map
212-965-8560 | Make a reservation
http://www.iatribeca.com

DRINK & BE MERRY:

There's no better way to cool off on a sweltering summer day than with an ice-cold drink – and this week GEM tried the White and Golden Sangria. The beauty of this simple White Wine Sangria recipe is that it is as delicious as it is easy, and it only gets better as you add your favorite fruits!

Prep Time: Less than 10 minutes

Ingredients:
1 Bottle of white wine (Riesling, Chablis, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc)
2/3 cup white sugar
3 oranges (sliced) or may substitute 1 cup of orange juice)
1 lemon (sliced)
1 lime (sliced)
1/2 liter of ginger ale or club soda (ginger ale for those with a sweeter tooth!)

Preparation:
Pour wine in the pitcher and squeeze the juice wedges from the orange, lemon and lime into the wine. Toss in the fruit wedges (leaving out seeds) and add sugar. Chill overnight. Add ginger ale
If you'd like to serve right away, use chilled white wine and serve over lots of ice.

Addition ideas: sliced strawberries, peaches, kiwi, a shot or two of gin, brandy or Dewar’s rum.

or club soda just before serving.
SUMMER HAIR:

Who to better represent versatile summer hair than Zoë Saldaña? To get this look, you’ll want the layering to look natural and blended in (not like your cut was planned layer by layer), so ask your stylist to slice in some invisible layers, aka – tousled layers. Most face shapes look best when the hair starts to angle right at the nose. For a rounder face, try going up a little higher closer to the eye. For more course hair consider a longer cut, and for thinner/straighter hair consider angling the layers up for a “lighter, tighter wave”.


SUMMER FUN – PARADAS LATINAS

The 2010 National Puerto Rican Day Parade will be held on Sunday, June 13, 1010. The parade kicks off at 5th Avenue in New York City. The day before, Saturday, June 12th, there will be a Music Festival in Roberto Clemente State Park in the Bronx. The music festival is a part of an all day event in the park called Juegos Boricuas, which begins at 9:00 a.m. For a schedule of activities, view the PR National Parade site here.

Urban Latino will be present at this parade, and the National Puerto Rican Day Parade 2010 will be aired on NYC's FOX 5 and WOR Channel 9.


MUSICA REVOLUTION:

Mexican-American hip-hop artist Mexia, the eldest son of Los Tigres Del Norte’s co-founder Hernán Hernandez, is like many Latinos in this country, frustrated over Arizona’s controversial SB1070. He exerts his opinions by writing his latest single titled: “Todos Somos Arizona” to which speaks of how the law that targets immigrants, specifically Latinos. According to sources, Mexia wrote the song in an effort to unite other Latino-Americans in this plight.

Via this song, Mexia raps "There's something wrong with that picture there/ No lo puedo creer, no lo puedo ver, tu forma de ser es lo de ayer/ And we’re Latinos on the rise like blood pressure yeah, trying to control us with fear.”

Mexia, who has dual American and Mexican citizenship, says, “I was born and raised here to think that this is the land of the free and the home of the brave, but now we have to watch our backs in our own backyard. It’s terrible to live in fear. Our grandmother was born in Jerome, Arizona, and we have other family and friends who live there. I think ‘What will happen to me if I leave their house without my wallet?’”

For more information about this song and to hear the track “Todos Somos Arizona” click here.


ARTE:

92Y Tribeca is proud to partner with Judios Latinos for a very special exhibition of work from emerging Latin artists. Based on the conflict that arises from belonging to two worlds at once, DUALITY showcases multi-disciplinary work from Mirta Kupferminc, Jessica Kaire, Denise Flasz, Karen Dana, Jennifer Renee Caden Merdjan, Liora Rimoch, Tamara Bogolasky, and Marcos Bucay. Exhibit runs from June 12th through Sunday, Aug 1.

Snippets about the artists:
Mirta Kupferminc is a Buenos Aires native awakening interest in the venerable art of etching. Her art is sustained under the sign of a strong spiritual track and triggers essential questions about the order of the universe, the relationship of men among each other and with their God.

Jessica Kaire is a multidisciplinary artist born in Guatemala City and based in Brooklyn. She develops bodies of work which utilize sculpture and objects as platforms for dialogue, interaction and performance. Among these is the on-going project Confort, a fictional brand of objects seeking to offer a sense of protection and psychological relief to the consumer.

Denise Flasz is a young New York based visual artist and designer born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. Her background is in illustration, visual communication and interactive design. With more than 5 years of experience in the creative industry, she has recently obtained her second Masters of Fine Arts, specializing in Design and Technology from Parsons The New School for Design.

Karen Dana’s paintings portray a sense of a charged psychological place while providing discrete spaces at their base for introspection. They give visceral and immediate impact to abstract dualities such as presence and absence, solidity and intangibility.

Jennifer Renee Caden Merdjan is an artist, designer, and educator. She and her artistic shoe sculptures were featured on Univision's Control. The sculptures are on exhibit in conjunction with the release of her book If Shoes Could Talk.

Liora Rimoch was born in Mexico City where she studied Graphic design at the Ibero University. She continued her studies in NYC, earning a Masters in Communication Design from Pratt and an Associate degree at FIT in Accessories Design. Liora currently lives in NYC working as both an accessories and applied pattern designer.

Tamara Bogolasky was born in Santiago, Chile. She became interested in photography at a young age and began exploring the possibilities of the medium. In 2004, she moved to New York to pursue a career in photography, studying at the International Center of Photography. Tamara’s work has been showcased in New York, Chicago and Santiago, Chile

Marcos Bucay studied Communications at Universidad Iberoamericana and the University of Miami. His short film, Free Jolito, part of this exhibition, has screened at film festivals around the globe.

Location: 92YTribeca
Judios Latinos - Feria Artistica: DUALITY

Time: Saturday, June 12th from 8:00-10:00PM
Adult Audience: 21 and over
Fees/charges: FREE
Directions: 200 Hudson Street, New York - (212) 601-1000

Week of May 18 - May 23, 2010

MENS HAIR
Style like a Sports Star
Get sports star hair! Cristiano Ronaldo shows off his rugged side on the field, but when he goes out his sleek style makes him a magnet to the ladies. To achieve his distinctive cut, a clean, non-flaking gel like got2b’s magnetik, $5.95, is a must. Plus, it has pheremones which are sure to bring your game up to par with Ronaldo’s.





EVENTS
This Wednesday, May 17, Jellybean Benitez encourages you to "Feel The Spirit" at Water TaxiBeach at the Sout Street Seaport. The vibe begins @ 8PM ...until ...it ends! Enjoy house music by resident DJ Jellybean Benitez along with very special guest DJ Tony Smith

General Admission: $10.00
Advance Tickets: To Guarantee entrance, purchase your tickets online at: http://www.wantickets.com?e_id=112590





SAMPLE SALE
One of Jessica Alba’s favorite denim brands is James Jeans - Dry Aged Denim. Right now the label is gearing up for a sample sale. Take note of the dates now so you can get there early to see if you can snag a pair of Jessica’s favorite style the James Jeans Twiggy Jean.

James Jeans Sample Sale!
Tuesday, May 25th---- 9:00 am-7:30pm
Wednesday, May 26th---10:00am-5:30pm
Thursday, May 27th----9:00am-7:30pm
Friday, May 28th----10am-2pm
James Jeans - Dry Aged Denim
500 Greenwich Street #202
New York, NY 10013
www.jamesjeans.us



FOOD
This summer, Starbucks is giving you more ways to create your perfect beverage. Customers looking for lighter options can order Frappuccino Blended Beverage with nonfat milk and select sugar-free syrups for a delicious blended beverage that’s lower in calories and fat. The new However-You-Want-It Frappuccino Blended Beverages are just as you like it!

Here are our suggestions to personalize your However-You-Want-It Frappuccino Blended Beverage for a lighter beverage:

• Choose the ‘light’ option
By choosing ‘Light’, your beverage will have at least 33% fewer calories than the regular Frappuccino Blended Beverages. You can choose the ‘light’option for these flavors: Coffee, Caramel, Mocha, Java Chip and Café Vanilla. ATall Mocha Light Frappuccino Blended Beverage (no whip) is just 100 calories, compared to a Tall Mocha Frappuccino (no whip) at 200 calories – a calorie savings of almost 50%!

For even more info visit www.starbucks.com



FASHION
Fuller sized chicas can check out great line of trendy & affordable pieces by Target’s premiere women’s plus size fashion line, Pure Energy. This summer is all about easy flowy tanks, tunics and dresses, Pure Energy has the same fun pieces in the plus size range and the price is right all are under $40! Check out Pure Energy at Target stores nationwide and Target.com.

Week of May 11 – May 17, 2010

GEM had an excellent time last week with our Cinco de Mayo events, and now we’re ready to welcome May – and all of its wonderful spring weather. This week GEM would like you to kick off your April blues with the following GEM-tastic finds…

ARM-CANDY:
At $30 USD, we no longer need to consider if this accessory can make it to your current collection, it simply means you can buy-buy-buy it! This adorable Oversized Button Paisley Clutch is part of the super popular Ebisu Paisley line. You’ll enjoy the soft cotton with classic paisley print and accents of creamy tan vintage leatherette trim. The front flap opens and closes with a magnetic snap, and includes two open top pockets and one zippered pocket inside for your important treasures. To buy this awesome clutch click here.


The "Slim" is Acme Made's original laptop bag & laptop sleeve hybrid designed to fit most laptops including Apple, Sony, Dell, HP and Gateway. The streamlined design allows the Slim to be inserted into another bag or carried with or without its removable shoulder strap. While minimal in design, the Slim maintains a high standard of protection utilizing "Splash-proof" zippers and a quilted satin lining - all encased in a highly water-resistant, ballistic nylon shell. For more selection and styles visit Acme Made here.


FASHION:

You're the hottest salsa dancer to hit the floor, and your faithful followers are going absolutely loco for you! Dress to please yourself - and the crowd - in this flirty black dress! Its tiered sleeves give your dance moves a fiery movement, its split neckline shows off your collarbone, and its pin-tucked waistband keeps you looking slim and polished both on and off the dance floor. For more selection and styles, visit ModCloth here.



The Takoli Magic Print water short by Speedo™ is both classic and durable with a modern twist. The traditional board short has been given a funky update this time around with a a wide-brimmed drawstring waistline and sufficient stretch in the derriere area to keep them secure while surfing or simply swimming at your favorite beach. For more selection and styles, visit Takoli here.


MUSICA:

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be your own music mix-master? Well, these two Latino gents from around the block have created the perfect source for your learning needs. WinkSound.com was founded by Puerto Rican pop-music guru - Mateo Puig and Mexican mix-master Rick G in 2007. The goal of the site is to serve as a music resource hub and “logic-mix” social network for like-minded people interested in learning the technicals involved in the art of mixing. You’ll find many video tutorials that are quite helpful and clearly organized into “user-influenced” topics – such as (Garage Band, and Beat Making). The magic duo has now set up camp in Brooklyn, deeming it the perfect melting pot in which to stir their diverse pan-Latin, electro-rock broth. Visit Rick and Mateo here at WinkSound.com.

ART:

Art Without Borders, an exhibition curated by Andrea Arroyo, features seven immigrant artists from around the world: Beatrice Coron (France), María Dominguez (Puerto Rico), Felipe Galindo (México), Vita Giorgi (Italy), Bernardo Palombo (Argentina), Pei Sun (China) and Yasuyo Tanaka (Japan).


The exhibit aims to shed light on the many faces of the immigrant experience, as seen through the eyes of each individual artist. The event supports talented foreign-born, New York-based individual artists, by giving them the opportunity to exhibit and discuss their work. The group includes artists ranging from emerging to established, and who vary in age from their 20’s to their 60’s, making this event international and inter-generational in nature. The exhibit features an assortment of subjects and styles. Media includes painting, collage, drawing, paper cut, prints and mixed media. The pieces are now on display, and the exhibit closes on May 29, 2010.

WHEN: This month until Saturday, May 29th
WHERE: El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Broadway, New York, NY 10025
Venue Website
COST: GRATIS! General Admission
MORE INFO: Event info


SOCIAL ACTIVISM:
Voto Latino, www.votolatino.org, is a non-profit organization founded by renowned actors Rosario Dawson and Wilmer Valderrama. In the wake of a new “anti-immigrant” law passed in the United States, the organization is condemning the SB 1070, and urges Arizona governor Jan Brewer to immediately rescind the law. The law encourages the racial profiling of individuals based purely on their physical appearance. With this new legislation, the almost 2 million Arizonans of Hispanic descent run the risk of being targeted and stopped by the police, giving these victims of unwarranted interrogation zero means of recourse against such actions. To make your voice heard, and for more information about VotoLatino’s stance visit them here.

Week of May 4 - May 10, 2010

LET’S CELEBRATE
“CINCO DE MAYO”.

Before we get started on all the fun ideas and things to do this Cinco De Mayo, let’s take a look back at the significance of this holiday.

HISTORY:

Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in the United States and primarily limited to the state of Puebla in Mexico. It marks the victory of the Mexican Army over the French at the “Battle of Puebla” during the French-Mexican War on May 5, 1862. This battle was significant in that the 4,000 Mexican soldiers led by Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza, were greatly outnumbered by the well-equipped French army of 8,000 that had not been defeated for almost 50 years.


DECORATE :

La Sirena
A true NYC GEM featuring the very best of Mexican Folk Art. Owner Dina Leor ensures that this quaint, L.E.S. boutique is stocked with arts and crafts from all over Mexico, from museum quality pieces to traditional marketplace merchandise and in all price ranges. You are sure to find those special touches for your Cinco De Mayo decoration from colorful papel picado to traditional candleholder centerpieces. 27 East 3rd Street, between 2nd Avenue and Bowery. (212) 780-9113. www.lasirenanyc.com.

Crate & Barrel
Stripes it up for Cinco De Mayo with their colorful and festive Raya Collection. The Dining and Entertaining collection includes matching pitcher, platter, bowl, 3-cup saucer, and chip and dip server. Prices range from $5.95 to $29.95. Visit www.crateandbarrel.com for more information.



DRINK:

Agavefest 2010 (Agave is best recognized as the plant from which tequila is made)
Astor Center hosts a tasting of a variety of brands and styles from jovens to añejos, mini-classes that address topics such as what agave distillates really are and are not (is tequila really mezcal? Is Cuervo really tequila?) and last but certainly not least cocktails at the Lounge. May 5th. Astor Center, 399 Lafayette Street at East 4th Street. (212) 674-7501. 6:30pm to 8:30pm. $25.00. www.astorcenternyc.com .


EAT:

Maria's Mexican Bistro
This consistent crowd pleasing Park Slope Mexican Bistro will celebrate Cinco De Mayo with style featuring a live music Trio at 8:30pm, singing everything from mariachis to baladas. Brace yourself because in addition to the all-around good food owners Carlos and Eduardo will invite patrons to do free tequila shots at 8pm and every hour on the hour until Midnight. Owner Eduardo Nacipucha has more than 150 different tequilas and makes all his margarita juices (including lime, pomegranate, blood orange and avocado) from scratch. Maria’s Mexican Bistro, 669 Union Street, at Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn. (718) 638-2344. Hours, Sun-Thu; noon-11pm; Fri-Sat; noon- midnight.


SHOP:

Viva La Girls Night Out
In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, Shecky’s, the event that continuously provides us with the ultimate shopping extravaganza is offering a Cinco de Mayo SPECIAL which includes Shecky’s Goodie Bag + General Admission. $5 OFF with code SPECIAL5, only $20 - $25 (usually $25 - $30). The upcoming Shecky’s “Girls Night Out” event in New York City will take place on June 15th through June 18th. 82 Mercer Street, between Spring and Broome Streets. 5pm to 10pm. This special deal ends May 5th. www.sheckys.com.


CULTURAL:

"The Big Read In The Bronx Celebrates Mexico"
With food, music, crafts, films, theater, and panels about Mexico, all happening throughout the Bronx. The Big Read is a program of the National Endowment of the Arts that encourages literacy and reading culture in local communities. The inaugural Big Read in the Bronx was held in March and April of 2008, with a celebration of the classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. More than 1,200 free books were distributed, many to individuals who had never owned a book before. May 4th through the 15th. For more information visit www.bronxarts.org.


DANCE:

Latin Jazz Legend Eddie Palmieri performing at SOB’s. May 5th. SOB's, 204 Varick Street. (212) 243-4940. 7:30pm performance. Tickets, $25 in advance. For more information visit www.sobs.com.


DJ Camilo will kick off the Cinco De Mayo After-Work party celebrations at Amnesia Nightclub. May 5th. Amnesia Nightclub, 609 West 29th Street, between 11th and 12 Avenues. (212) . Doors open at 5pm, everyone free until 7pm, reduced after on the nocheLatina guest list. For more information visit www.nochelatina.com.