Week of November 29 – December 6, 2010

Last week, GEM NYC volunteered their time with the New York Cares Organization by servicing the underprivileged population of the Church of St. Francis Xavier (Flatiron District) with a hot meal and a warm smile this Thanksgiving. We were pleased to interact with these individuals as they taught us so much about being THANKFUL… Here at GEM, we’re thankful every week to have the privilege of sharing insights about your wonderful city–the Big Apple, New York – and the cool events, places, and products on offer.

Happy Cyber Monday, everybody! This week, we’d like to show you some of the BEST deals “in digital town” - for Cyber Monday (11/29), and much more! Also, don’t forget to share some of your own GEM NYC finds, or if you’d like to drop us a line please do so at gem@ulmedia.net.

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Chances are if you’re online today, it’s probably because you’re trying to buy a gift for someone (or maybe one for yourself!). The National Retail Foundation anticipates that online holiday shopping will increase about 10 percent this year, with over 100 million people pointing and clicking to their holiday heart’s content. So what are some of the best deals out there? See below : )


ICE ICE BABY!

Whether you want to impress the water-cooler gang at the office holiday party, or find Christmas presents that your loved ones won't re-gift, today's deal is for you. Just surf over to Ice.com where today's deal will get you $100 off the site's gorgeous jewelry for just $50. This means that by purchasing a certificate at Livingsocial.com, at a price of $50 – you’ll be able to claim $100 off of your Ice.com purchase today! From bracelets to fashion rings to cuff links and studs, this online jeweler, trusted since 1999, has a massive selection of everything you need to keep yourself, or your special someone, looking like a million bucks. Want to sport some accoutrements with color? Check out the selection of gemstones and pearl jewelry. At 50% off, you can afford to accessorize in style. That's what we call twice the Ice for half the price.

Knock another $1 off this deal when you "like" Ice.com on Facebook.

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FANCY FEET

$20 OFF + FREE SHIPPING = SHOE BLISS! Thanks to ShoeWoo, you can enjoy doorbuster deals starting as low as $29.99 (select styles), plus take $20 off of a purchase of $75 or more online today! The icing on top is that today you get free shipping on ANY purchase, regardless of the sales amount… Now that’s a SWEET deal! Satisfy your shoe-holic tendencies online today by visiting the virtual ShoeWoo shop here.

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MAJOR SHOPPING LOW-DOWN!

The above sales too tame for you? - Not a stranger to online buying, I see – well check out the roster of online sales, savings and deals that will make your mouth water!

Bloomingdale’s: You get $50 off every $250 spend, except for beauty and fine jewelry.

Bluefly: The already discounted stock at this site is getting an additional 10 to 20 percent off.

Endless: Again, the more you spend, the better the discount gets. Just don’t believe that if you spend more, you save more. That just doesn’t make any sense.

French Connection: 40 percent off and free shipping on orders over $125? What’s not to like about that?

JC Penney: Free shipping on all orders over $25, plus discounts on over 40,000 items in the store.

Macy’s: Free shipping on orders over $75, sales on stuff in nearly every department (just not mattresses, sorry) and 25 to 40 percent off on clearance items.

Max and Chloe: Need jewelry? Be sure to check out the deals here — this site is trying out the same spend more, take more off strategy as other smart stores.

Shopbop.com: The more you spend, the better your discounts gets. A cart filled with $250 will earn you $50 off, but if you spend $1,500, you get $500 off.

Stila: Get up to 75 percent off makeup and other beauty products.

Tory Burch: If you spend $300, you get 30 percent off. Plus, there’s a limited edition tote if you spend over $150 and free shipping and gift wrap no matter what your order looks like.

Urban Outfitters: Last day for free shipping! Men’s outerwear is up to 40 percent off, and the Thanksgiving Sale is still going strong.

Now, this isn’t a comprehensive listing, so be sure to search far and wide before you buy — you might be able to get a better deal somewhere else. Happy shopping, and be sure to let us know what deals you score!

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CELEBRATE WINTER

On Monday, November 29, 2010 the Lincoln Square Business Improvement District and presenting sponsor Time Warner will host the Eleventh Annual Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square – New York City’s largest holiday festival!

Winter’s Eve kicks off with a neighborhood tree lighting ceremony and features free entertainment, food tastings, in-store activities and shopping around and about this colorful and vibrant neighborhood. Stores, restaurants, cultural organizations and public spaces in the district will be buzzing with activities for both children and adults.

At the same time, sidewalks along Broadway from Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle to 68th Street will be alive with performers, street musicians, jugglers, stilt-walkers and more, making for a festive fun-filled stroll through the streets of this dynamic Upper West Side neighborhood.

WHEN: Monday, November 29, 2010, 5:30 PM, Rain, Snow or Shine!

WHERE: The celebration begins with a neighborhood tree lighting ceremony at Dante Park - Broadway& 63rd Street! Festivities continue along Broadway from Time Warner Center to 68th Street.

BY SUBWAY: Take the 1, A, B, C, or D train to 59th Street/Columbus Circle or the 1 train to 66th Street and Broadway.

Admission is free, but please bring a canned food donation to Dante Park at Broadway and 63rd Street and help feed the hungry!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please call 212.581.3774 or email mailto:info@lincolnsquarebid.org for more information or to learn how to get involved.

CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL WINTER'S EVE MAP & PROGRAM!


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FOOD & MUSICA

FLAMENCO MONDAYS:
Marco Britti, the musician owner of Favela Cubana, combines his love of Brazil and Cuba (the Italian has lived in both) by offering authentic food and live music to boot! In order to make this mélange of cultures, Britti has tapped Oscar Santana, a chef from his bygone steakhouse, Soho Steak.

Santana serves Brazilian-style grilled sirloin with mashed potatoes and string beans along with other national dishes such as Bahia-style shrimp (prepared with peppers, onions, tomato, and coconut milk) and a grilled whole snapper with coconut rice and mango sauce. On the Cuban side, there’s arroz con pollo, ropa vieja, and the like (take a look at the first, second, and third pages of the menu). Naturally, the $7 to $9 cocktails include an assortment of mojitos (one of them made with basil instead of mint) and fresh-fruit caipirinhas (blueberry, raspberry, kiwi, etc.).

Event Details – FLAMENCO STYLE PERFORMANCE

WHEN: Every Monday from 9:00pm to 10:00pm
WHERE: Favela Cubana
543 LaGuardia Pl
New York, NY 10012
http://www.favelacubana.com/

COST: GRATIS!
AGE:18+

Menu: Mains and Sides
Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Desserts
Menu: Appetizers and Sandwiches

For more information, visit their site, or call directly at 212-777-6500.

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EVENTS

We're headed to Park Slope, Brooklyn for a great cause! Join us for some laughs and libations as an eclectic blend of entertainment and media personalities come together to celebrate the First Anniversary and raise funds for Milagros Day, a courageous endeavor to empower abused women.

About Milagros Day:
Milagros Day, a non-profit organization, provides personal growth and professional development to women who have recently left abusive relationships. Founder Dawn Diaz started Milagros Day in honor of her mother, Carmen Milagros Lugo, whom she witnessed being abused for years. For more info: MilagrosDay.org

* Hosted by GLAAD Award-winning journalist and producer Carlos Anaya.

* Music by the Untouchable, Demolition Crew DJ F.A.M.E

* Comedy showcase featuring Dave Lester, Gina Brillon, and Aldo Marachlian. Combined, these comics have performed on Comedy Central, HBO, Telemundo, and countless other TV, film, and stage appearances with various award credits. Bottom line, they are hilarious!

Agenda for Event on December 2, 2010:

6:45 PM: Doors Open
7PM to 8PM: Happy Hour/Networking
8PM to 10PM: Program (Speakers/Comics)
10PM to 11PM: DJ Fame

WHERE: Garfield's Lounge
274 4th Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 222-0290

Drink and Appetizer Specials All Night

$22 Advanced Tickets / $30 Cash at the Door

For more information and to purchase your tickets in advance online at the: Milagros Day Facebook Page

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www.urbanlatino.com

Week of November 1 - November 8, 2010

Hello GEM NYC followers, I hope you all had a great and safe HALLOWEEN. Before you get started discovering this week’s new GEMS I would like to remind you and encourage you to vote tomorrow, November 2nd!

Voting is a fundamental right and when we make our voices heard, we can keep moving our nation forward, building a fairer, stronger, and just more America…

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COMEDY

NEW YORK COMEDY FESTIVAL
Featuring Gabriel Iglesias Known as the "fluffy" comic in the Hawaiian shirt, comedian Gabriel Iglesias says he gets his material from things that happen every day. His comedy style - telling stories with characters and sound effects that bring all of his personal issues to life - has entertained audiences on numerous televisions shows and in comedy clubs all over the country. Thursday, 11/4. Town Hall, 123 West 43rd Street.

For more information call (212) 840-2824 or visit www.the-townhall-nyc.org. 8 p.m. Tickets, $46.50.

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EXHIBITION

BORIMIX PUERTO RICO FEST 2010 OPENING NIGHT: VEUVE CUCARACHA
Veuve Cucaracha is an exhibition that seeks to honor through contemporary art, the tremendous literary legacy of Pura Belpré (circa 1899-1982) through specific pieces dwelling on the timeless love story between Perez the Mouse and Martina the Roach. The selected work will include a broad cross-section of Puerto Rican, Latino and a diversity of other New York artists. Curated by Miguel Trelles.

Friday, 11/5. Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA), 107 Suffolk Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY. For more information call (212) 529-1545 or visit www.sea-ny.org. 6 p.m.

SHATTERED GLASS: RETHINKING THE MUSEO DE ARTE CARILLO-GIL COLLECTION
Through the study of recent Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and Mexican high modernist masterpieces in the collection of the Carrillo Gil Museum of Art, the curatorial team reexamined a series of important pieces to reveal how bodies and ruins, placed together, relate to an established colonial narrative, making it possible to reassess the significance of images of violence in contemporary Mexican art and rewrite some of that narrative. Extremely brutal images, such as José Clemente Orozco's landscapes of New York, were frequently designed as a commentary on metropolitan modernity. They form the core of the curatorial focus of the exhibition, which, along with the catalogue essays, will present these concepts from four vantage points, each represented by a section in the exhibition.

Exhibition opening, Saturday, 11/6. Americas Society, 680 Park Avenue, New York, NY. For more information call (212) 249-8950 or visit www.americas-society.org. 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

*IMAGE CREDIT: León Ferrari, Apocalípsis, 1988, Collection of Museo Arte Carrillo Gil

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FAMILY ACTIVITIES

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION AT THE AMERICAN INDIAN
COMMUNITY HOUSE
Celebrate El Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with fun activities for the entire family. There will be workshops for children and adults from 12 Noon to 5 p.m., candle light procession with Aztec dancers at 6 p.m., and music and refreshments at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, 11/2. The American Indian Community House, 11 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY.
For more information call (212) 598-0100 or visit www.aich.org.




GALLERY TOURS AT EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO
Hear the stories behind El Museo’s history, far-reaching permanent collection, and exciting temporary exhibitions on display. The gallery tour will be led by El Museo's artist educators. Every Saturday in November. El Museo del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Avenue (at 104th Street) New York, NY. For more information call (212) 831-7272 or visit www.elmuseo.org . Gallery tours begin at 3:00 p.m. Admission to all gallery tours is FREE with museum admission. All tours meet at the entrance of the galleries five minutes prior to start time.

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FOOD

BUDDY VALASTRO: THE CAKE BOSS IN THE BAKIN’ WITH THE BOSS TOUR
TLC’s “Cake Boss” will share the stories behind his hit TV series and his colorful Italian family, answers audience questions, and give a live demonstration of the techniques that have made him one of the most successful and renowned cake artists in the nation. Buddy will even invite audience members to join the fun on stage. Wednesday, 11/3. Town Hall, 123 West 43rd Street. For more information call (212) 840-2824 or visit www.the-townhall-nyc.org. 8 p.m. Tickets, $59.50, $49.50 and $39.50.

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LEARN

PIENSA DIGITAL
El Diario La Prensa, New York’s Spanish Language newspaper is hosting its’ 1st Annual “Piensa Digital” FREE seminar offering (3) levels of online learning tracks from beginner, intermediate, and accelerated, led by experienced professionals in the digital field. Join El Diario La Prensa and sponsors STAPLES and HP at this full day of learning and hands-on experience with topics ranging from” how to troubleshoot basic computer issues” to paying your bills on-line. All instructors are bi-lingual.

Saturday, 11/6. Hostos Community College, 500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY. To register for this event call (212) 807-4625. Once you are confirmed for this event, registration will begin at 10 a.m. on 11/6., classes begin at 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. FREE.

Week of October 26 - November 1, 2010

Event

Procter & Gamble has opened a pop-up store in New York City as part of its Have You Tried This Yet? campaign. The pop-up store will be open now until October 31 at 101 West 57th Street (near 6th Avenue). The Pop-Up will be open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. It will offer free demonstrations and product samples from brands such as Tide, Bounty, Pringles, Charmin, Febreze, Covergirl and Olay, allowing consumers to experience the products first-hand and see what's new.

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Skincare

Recently, skincare companies like Orlane, Perricone MD and Natura Bisee have begun tapping into a new market with regimens formulated for the 25-year-old age group.Too old for acne treatments designed for hormonal teenage skin and too young for full-blown anti-aging treatments, women in their twenties have long been neglected of products that meet their specific skincare needs. Around age 25, the production of substances like hyaluronic acid and collagen, substances crucial for young-looking skin, decreases. The initially hidden effects of these changes emerge five or ten years later as wrinkles on the skin’s surface.Orlane, Paris spearheaded the trend earlier this year with a three-step regimen called Anagenese 25+, including:

• Morning Recovery Concentrate First Time-Fighting Serum ($100)

• First Time-Fighting Care Eye Contour ($85)

• First Time-Fighting Care ($100)

Formulated specifically for women from 25 to 35, Anagenese 25+ postpones the onset of aging using pro-growth factors and crinopexy technology while providing instant, visible improvements to the skin’s luminosity and tone. Available at www.bloomingdales.com

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Running

Marathon season is now in full swing! GEM is pumped about running, especially after watching the recent Chicago Marathon; the Nike Women’s Marathon; and excited about the upcoming New York City Marathon. We decided to break out our kicks and see what else we need for a good run. Whether it’s the great outdoors or the health club treadmill, don’t forget these accessories the next time you lace up your shoes and head out the door.

Zico Coconut Water:
Staying hydrated is a basic rule of thumb when engaging in exercise. Rather than water, refill your bottle with Zico’s 100% coconut water. It contains 5 essential electrolytes, allowing your body to re-hydrate faster by replacing lost minerals. It is available at a variety of organic-based grocery stores including Whole Foods and the Fresh Market.

MiCoach Stride Sensor:
Take control, set goals, and become your own life coach with the help of Adidas miCoach. Simply clip the sensor to your laces and monitor pace, distance and stride rate. Use it in conjunction with Adidas’s other electronic products for the ultimate running experience. The miCoach is $50 and may be purchased at www.adidas.com.


New iPod Nano:
Apple has just introduced “a new way to nano” with colorful, mini iPod Nano’s. Half the size of the original Nano and even easier to play, this new music player has been completely redesigned with Multi-Touch — the same technology that makes iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch so high-tech! Just clip this cute colorful iPod anywhere and you can run to your favorite tunes with ease. To purchase visit any www.applestore.com.


Nike Swift Y-back Women’s Sports Bra:
Its gym class meets chemistry lab with Nike’s new design being the fashionable result. The Dri-FIT fabric offers ventilation by wicking excess sweat away from the body and bringing it to the fabric’s surface, where it then evaporates. This leaves the runner feeling dry and comfortable with the support needed to cross the finish line. Available at www.Nike.com.


Deuce Brand Pink Ribbon Watch:
The ultimate must-have for every work-out, this water-proof watch will withstand the most strenuous of activities, rain or shine. Not to mention, the pink band will add a dash of pizzazz to even the dreariest of mornings. Deuce Brand Pink Ribbon Watches cost $20.00 each and 10% of each watch goes directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The watches can be purchased online at www.deucebrand.com and at various retailers around the country.

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Kicks

Bringing the “Heat” this season is an all new LeBron James signature shoe. The LEBRON 8 uses the best of Max Air 360 and Flywire technology to create a solid performance shoe.
The LEBRON 8 is classically crafted and modeled after the shell of a dress shoe.Functional detailing in the perimeter of the outsole provides flexibility while representing LeBron’s personal inspiration points. Deep cut forefoot flex grooves provide an optimal range of motion. Lightweight multidirectional herringbone pattern specifically designed for LeBron’s first step and his quick cuts.

The lion on the front-side of the tongue represents LeBron’s ravenous nature – like that of a hunter on the basketball court. The tongue-back label is a nod to bespoke off court attire, and highlights the crafted nature of the LEBRON 8 made specifically for Mr. LeBron James. The numbers 828 represent the 82 regular season games and the 28 playoff games.

The height differential between the collar and heel has increased, which results in better lock down and more Achilles flexion.

The structural TPU injected frame around Flywire technology, delivers ergonomic zonally-designed support, for lightweight lockdown only where needed.

The Swoosh design was moved back on the LEBRON 8 towards the rear of the shoe, ending on unique spoiler loop, to symbolize LeBron’s speed on court.

Midsole compression molded Phylon interface works in concert with Max Air 360 cushioning to help guide through the footstrike and further enhance the ride.

Max Air 360 unit was designed for ultimate cushioning and impact protection.

The alternating formation of the laces eye row was created for better fit, with a top eyelet to provide enhanced lockdown through dual pull design, shaped like the number 8.

The fully integrated, seamless mesh innersleeve provides breathability and comfort.

Outsole geometry combined with X Flex design decouples the heel to displace force and pressure.

For more info visit www.Nike.com

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Shopping

With Halloween just around the corner, if you don’t have your costume together visit www.FlirtCatalog.com for an array of fun and flirty costumes, from popular styles like French Maid and Cop, to intricate, high-end get-ups like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” look. One of this year’s most popular collections is the “Adult Tea Party,” which offers a selection of costumes inspired by the hit film “Alice in Wonderland!”

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Day of the Dead

Mexico celebrates the Day of the Dead on November 1st and the 2nd. The tradition suggests the belief that between October 31st and the day of the celebration, the souls of the dearly departed roam the earth to enjoy the pleasures they had in their earthly life. The holiday is meant to honor those who have passed, and celebrate their life.

As a result of the mixing of cultures and their Catholic and Mayan antecedents, the days of the dead are a time of great family togetherness in which the whole family take part and everyone is involved.

Throughout the state of Quintana Roo, “Hanal Pixan” -as the Day of the Dead is known within the Mayan tradition- is one of the most significant traditions, due to all the preparations involved: the building of beautiful altars, adorned with palm crosses, candles, drinks, pictures and the “deceased’s” favorite food comes to life. During “Hanal Pixan”, people pray and sing, sweep the yards and paint the walls to receive the dead with full honors.

Gastronomically, “Hanal Pixan” is a celebration that bursts with flavor. Large portions of the best dishes are prepared, with the idea that the souls enjoy earthly pleasures such as food. Proof of this is the Mucbipollo, from the Mayan “Pib” which means “buried” and is a tamale or corn cake stuffed with chicken, sauce, broth and spices, cooked in a hole in the ground and covered with banana leaves. All the food is arranged on the altars for the souls to have their feast. The belief dictates that the offered food looses its flavor and nutrients by the next day.

Day of the dead was declared in 2003 as a World’s Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, due to the importance it has on Mexican indigenous communities’ everyday lives regarding the different dimensions and perceptions of death.

Week of October 4 to October 11, 2010

This weekend, I thought to myself – “Why do I love NYC so much… Is it because it’s the melting pot of the world and you can interact with people of all walks of life? No, it’s not that… Is it because NYC is hip and fashionable? Yes, but not quite the real reason… Well finally, it dawned on me – that I don’t drive, AND yet I never miss a heart beat with this darn city”!

New York City is amazing for its accessibility to everything and
everywhere worth experiencing:)

Let’s exude our love for the city by trying some of this week’s great GEMs!
Feel free to share some of your own GEM NYC finds, or
if you’d like to drop us a line please do so at gem@ulmedia.net.

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FOOD:

ON-THE-GO:
FiDi – also known as the Financial District - is apparently the hip place to catch the VSpot Cafe food truck on the corner of Hanover and Water streets. I noticed it, because a guy out front was handing out samples of (wait for it) VEGAN empanadas. Oh yeah bring on the tofu! Did I also mention that it’s “Latino Vegan food”? It seems that people are into the healthy eating binge lately because there is always a line that goes around the corner to order food from this truck. Or maybe they’re just like me (a hungry Latina suffering from an overkill of greasy burgers), who gets all –to-much excited when she sees the words empanada and rice and beans together. So “why” Vegan? Well, “why not”?! For starters, eating a strict vegetarian or Vegan diet helps stop the torture that millions of animals experience every day. Not to mention, the health benefits of a Vegan lifestyle are impressive for the waist line. Clearly, nobody is saying that we have to stop eating meat completely, but with options like the VSpot Café Truck’s popular empanadas and famous soy “chicken” burrito, you might just think twice about your diet!


IN-THE-CLASSROOM:
Famous TV chef, Lydia Bastianich is launching her very own “Scuola di Cucina” – in NYC. To my mother’s dismay, my pots look as new as the day I got them from Macy’s – and my stove functions primarily to light my scented candles. So when I heard that Chef Lydia was starting a school in the city, I thought well, this is a GRAND opportunity for those who want to learn to cook Italian food from the best in this industry - sign me up! In addition to being the quintissential Food Channel “chef," independent "restaurateur," and "mother of Joe," – (think Iron Chef), Lidia Bastianich can now add "dean" to her name: that's her official title at La Scuola di Eataly, a new culinary endeavor that the Italian food colossus is launching now in October.

The 24-seat classroom will be used for lessons, lectures, demonstrations, tastings, and dinners; October's classes are largely composed of wine tastings, and establishing the series called “Aperitivo with the Winemaker”. Future classes will feature appearances from the likes of Cesare Casella and Dave Pasternack, as well as agriculturally artisanal producers. Classes will range from $75-$175; more information is available on their academic offerings site: La Scuola di Eataly.

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ARTES:

Feed Your Kids the Arts…
The arts are enriched with the stuff kids need to succeed. Just like kids need to have good nutrition on a daily basis, kids need to have their daily serving of the arts. Studies have shown that involvement in the arts helps kids increase test scores and promotes academic achievement. Kids who are involved in the arts are:

• 4 times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement

• 3 times more likely to be elected to class office within their schools

• 4 times more likely to participate in a math and science fair

• 3 times more likely to win an award for school attendance

Chances are, though, that your kids are not getting enough art—in or out of school. "The Arts. Ask for More." public service advertising (PSA) campaign is designed to educate parents and citizens on why the arts are essential to a child's development and empower them to get more art into kids’ lives, both in and out of school.

Get Involved: Click here for 10 Simple Ways you can get more art into your child’s life. Find an arts organization or PSA Partner in your area to find out more about the arts and arts education in your community.

Get the facts on why an arts education is so important to your child’s development. If you wish to support the Arts for Education initiative by signing an electronic petition click here.

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CULTURE & EVENTS:

Join New York City’s Latin Media and Entertainment Commission as they present the first-ever Latin Media and Entertainment Week here, in the capital of the world.

New York City is the media and cultural capital of the world. It’s where the arts converge with industry, startups, businesses, and much more. New York has also grown to become a major Latin media and entertainment center, where ideas, creativity, innovation, and talent continue to shape our city into one of the most culturally diverse places in the world.

Events range from film, theater, dance, concerts, photography, art, museum exhibits, business functions, and more. It’s a representation of the diverse and dynamic talent of the Latin communities. Featured participants include organizations such as The Met, El Museo del Barrio, El Repertorio Espanol, Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance, Loisaida Inc. and the Spain Arts Festival. To view and attend any of the participating events click here to download the schedule. Entrance fees range from $0 Free to $20.00.

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DÉCOR:

If you’re looking to spruce up your apartment, and do not know how to – GEM recommends the following tricks to inject new life into your home on a limited budget.

*On the backs of open shelving, paint a color (not white!) to make the items on your shelves pop.

*Always keep a couple of cans of spray paint around. A clean, simple coat of high gloss white (any other color will work as well) can instantly turn an old mirror, pedestal, table, or vase from a garage sale find into the perfect decorator piece.

*Wall-to-wall mirrors may seem like a ’70s design leftover, but adding a little glass opens up the area and reflects light. You can also use small mirrors under your flower centerpieces to cause continuity of the image reflected.

Cruise flea markets and garage sales for bargain mirrors and glass jars. These types of vintage items are always easy to repurpose for various areas of your home. Paying attention to these small details shows that you're designing every nook and cranny. Check out any of these markets in the city for great vintage GEMs for your home…

Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market 39th St between Ninth and Tenth Aves - 212-243-5343
hellskitchenfleamarket.com; Sat, Sun 9am–6pm

Here you’ll find designer clothing, vintage vases and plates, and everything in between. It gets crowded quickly, so come early (by 10am) for a first pass at the vendors’ wares.

GEM find: An assortment of designer handbags (including Louis Vuitton and Prada) priced as low as $35, old soul and R&B records from $2 apiece and weathered wooden crates ($40 each).

Antiques Garage 112 W 25th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves - 212-243-5343
hellskitchenfleamarket.com; Sat, Sun 9am–5pm

This is actually a GARAGE - where 100 vendors can be found on two floors. The upper level is less populated, but offers a wide array of vintage prints, while the lower level is where more of the vendors (and shoppers) congregate.

GEM find: Vintage items such as a pristine Optimo cigar canister from 1929 ($50); an assortment of gem-encrusted rings, bracelets and other baubles (ranging from $35 to $85); and a whole section of vintage picture frames, some with old prints included, for $12.

Brooklyn Flea Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School, Lafayette Ave between Clermont and Vanderbilt Aves, Fort Greene; Sat 10am–5pm OR Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park between Main and Water Sts, Dumbo; Sun 11am–6pm; brownstoner.com/brooklynflea

The Brooklyn Flea has expanded quickly, with more than 150 vendors, many of whom can be found at both markets. Hit the Fort Greene location for vintage clothing and records, and the park in Dumbo for upscale furniture and decorative items.

GEM find: A brass birdcage ($60) which can be used as a light fixture – by purchasing a ligh kit from any home improvement store – among other great metal objects, mirrors,furniture.

GreenFlea Columbus Ave between 76th and 77th Sts - 212-239-3027; Sun 10am–5:30pm

This market is a hodgepodge of old and new items; secondhand clothing shares space with discounted beauty goods and handmade jewelry. If you’re looking for furniture, there are at least ten vendors with cool, affordable antiques.

GEM find: There is a vendor called Toaster Central, who sells working vintage toasters for as little as $45.

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FASHION:

Plus Fashion Goes Haute Couture: Saks to Carry Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, McQueen Up to Size 20

Saks Fifth Avenue is testing a placement of “plus sizes” on its high end floor with almost all the big designers participating. According to Racked, this diversification of style will not just include smart suits and evening gowns for the ladies-who-lunch set (though they’ll have plenty to peruse, with extended sizes from Akris, Armani, Carolina Herrera, Escada, Donna Karan, St. John, Oscar de la Renta, Max Mara, Valentino and Michael Kors).

Saks will also be stocking plus-sized pieces by ready-to-wear Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana, as well as from Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Fendi and Roberto Cavalli.

We, at GEM, think this is a major leap forward in terms of plus size fashion. As fashion tends to trickle downwards- meaning high end designers (Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana) set the trends and lower-end retailers (Forever21, H&M, Express) copy what the design houses created. So while the collections will be limited (only one of each size – yikes!) and the prices will be high, this test could have far reaching impact on plus size fashion at all levels of the retail chain.

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ENCOUNTERS:

Want to meet people and practice your “personal pitch” with others? Then you’d probably like to try your hand at speed dating. GEM went on a speed date last week, and we’d like to share our experience with you – so that you know what to expect on your own visit : )

When you arrive......................

Your hosts will greet you and sign you in. You get your introduction pack which includes a scorecard, pen, badge, a list of questions to ease you into your dating conversation as well as information about other events. You can then relax at the bar and gather your thoughts for half an hour before you get down to the serious business of dating.

Time to start dating.......................

Once everyone has arrived it’s time to take your seats in the designated area at your allocated table. One of the Speed Dating team members will explain a little bit about how the evening is organized and then the fun begins!

When you get the signal to start, copy your date’s name and badge number in the first line of your scorecard and then you can get to find out a little more about the person sitting across from you. The clock is ticking and though it might seem like a long time when you’re there, five minutes passes very quickly. And don’t forget - be sure to allow your date a chance to ask some questions too!

Before long, the timer sounds and the guys have to move to date number 2.

Between dates (NOT during), ensure you circle YES or NO next to the dates you have had to record your brief experience with the person. Don’t worry guys - you get to meet all of the women at the event and ladies you will get to meet all of the gents (and better yet, you don’t have to move - the men will come to you). If only real life dating were this simple!

Don’t forget to mark your scorecard after each date and if both of you mark ‘Yes’ on your card to see each other again, you will get your partner’s details sent to you via e-mail.

Breather!.......................

Phew! That wasn’t so bad was it? Now you’ve had a chance to meet and find out a little more about 10-30 people you knew nothing about at the start of the evening.

It’s important to check that you’ve filled in the details you need to on your scorecard. After all, you don’t want to miss out on finding that special someone because you forgot to tick the box!

Finding out about your matches.......................

Within 24-36 hours you will know how many matches you have via email. If the people you said "YES" to also “checked” you - then you have a match, or 2 or 3… With your prior consent, the Speed Dating organizers will pass along your contact details (Name, Tel #, Email Address) to your match(es), and you’ll receive theirs.

If you’d like to try this out, there are two speed dating events occurring this week. See the information below to register:

Latino Singles Speed Dating
Date: Friday, October 08, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Venue: People Lounge, NYC Location: 163 Allen Street (between Rivington St & Stanton St) , New York, NY 10002
Recommended Ages: Women 21 - 35, Men 23 - 38
Cost: $35.00

Single Professionals Speed Dating
Date: Thursday, October 07, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Venue: Sin Sin's Leopard Lounge
Location: 248 E. Fifth St (at 2nd Ave.), New York, NY 10003
Recommended Ages: Women 33 - 45, Men 35 - 48
Cost: $35.00

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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."