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 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 September 13 - September 19, 2010

Though the weather is still warm, with New York Fashion Week in full swing fashion lovers are beginning to think about updating their wardrobes for fall with the must-have trends.

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Fall into Shoes

Making the transition from summer to fall can be as easy as switching up the look of a summer maxi dress or cargo shorts by adding a pair of fall shoes. We asked Marshalls style experts share some suggestions on how to make the move from the hot summer days to the brisk fall mornings:

• Miniskirts get an updated look with a pair of platform booties instead of strappy sandals

• Fall footwear colors like gray, plum or navy blue bring a neutral hue to summer styles

• The romper is perfect with platform heels or knee high motorcycle boots.

For store locations visit: www.marshallsonline.com

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Favorite New Place to Shop

MNG By MANGO Launches Exclusively at JCPenney as shop-within-a-shop. The partnership that brings high quality, affordable European chic runway fast fashion directly to its customers, making them the exclusive U.S. department store retailer for MNG by Mango.

Run, don’t walk to check out the full contemporary offering of career and casual women’s sportswear as well as handbags, accessories and footwear all which fall under JCPenney’s “better” and “best” pricing tiers retailing from $9.90-$19.90 for a tee to $59.90-$159.90 for a jacket.

For additional MNG by Mango trends and chic Fall styles visit your local JCPenney retail location or www.jcp.com.

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Hair Trends

For the 411 on hair we asked Christo, the King of Curls and the owner of New York’s Curlisto Salon for his suggestions for the hottest styles for men and women.

For women, “the tasseled look with lots of colorful ribbons and accessories will be very popular this fall,” explains Christo. Avoid becoming a fashion victim by choosing the right accessory; if you’re going to use a fun ribbon then make that it matches the color of your outfit.

As for men, Christo advises men to “grow their hair a little longer and have more of a structured style.”

Big Tip: “Remember: Less is more! Avoid over using too much product to hold your hair inplace,” says Christo. Visit www.curlisto.com for more tips and info on the salon.

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Back to the Classics

There’s nothing chic about being cold. And that’s why it time to start thinking about great coats. Ryan Roberts treats the coat with the same kind of reverence that most designers accord to the little black dress. With his winter 2010 collection, Roberts offers a complete coat wardrobe designed to cover every need – from office to evening to weekend. Roberts has spun his favorite fabrics – wool cashmere, cotton herringbone, and his signature boiled Italian wool -- into graceful modern silhouettes.

Classic shapes – trench, riding, and walking coats to name a few -- are emboldened with asymmetrical closures, dramatic collars, oversized and covered buttons, and exquisitely cut sleeves.

What do you get when you cross old school glamour with modern comfort and wearability? The Griffin, $770; the black and white washed cotton herringbone piece is soft yet structured. Impeccable retro details include a dramatic funnel neck, dolman sleeves, and self-covered buttons.

For stores, please visit www.ryanroberts.com.

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Food

Usually when you think of Fashion Week food is not the first thing to come to mind. With cupcakes being the trend they are this season they seem to be the latest edible accessory!

For the duration of fashion week CRUMBS launched a yummy limited edition vanilla cupcake, filled with chocolate cream cheese frosting adorned with pink and white hearts around the edge and a heart shaped sugar cookie decorated with pink sanding sugar under light green frosting. The FNO cupcake available in NYC only will be sold for $4 and 20% of proceeds will benefit the New York City AIDS Fund in the New York Community Trust.

Visit www.crumbs.com for locations.

Week of July 6 - July 11, 2010

With the summer now in full swing we’ve got vacation on our minds. Don’t know where to go? How about a 3 hour plane trip to one of the hottest spots in the world?

Whether it’s a week away or just a weekend getaway, New Yorkers flock to Miami for the hot sun, its well-known beautiful beaches and trendy nightlife.

Recently, the team of the website www.Thrillist.com showed us how they took over the Fontainebleau Hotel to create Hotel Thrillist Miami 2010. The Thrillisters not only showed us how to tear it up Miami style, they left behind a blueprint with the key ingredients: where to stay, dine, play…and of course what to wear.
Let’s get set to party VIP style!

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STAY: Nothing is more VIP than the legendary Fontainebleau Miami Beach, www.fontainebleau.com. Located on Collins Avenue, this is the place to be and be seen. It's easy to relax on the beach or oceanfront pools. Fontainebleau’s new poolscape boasts “walls of water” intermingled with a free-form pool. Between the resorts' eleven restaurants and lounges, a 40,000-square-foot spa and the 1,504 guest rooms offer plenty of relaxation for everyone.

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FOOD: Foodies will enjoy the multitude of culinary options Miami has to offer. While at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach check out the trio of signature restaurants:

Gotham Steak – Alfred Portale, chef and owner of New York’s celebrated Gotham Bar and Grill, is at the helm of Gotham Steak. Portale’s menu expands beyond modern American steakhouse fare to include raw seafood towers, exotic meats and 1500+ wines from around the world.

Scarpetta – Scott Conant of Scarpetta in New York City opened a Miami Beach outpost. Known for coaxing the most sublime flavors out of the simplest ingredients, Conant has created a satisfying and soulful meal that encourages guests to pick up a piece of bread and clear their plates.

Hakkasan – Hakkasan at Fontainebleau, conceptualized by Alan Yau of London’s Michelin-rated Hakkasan, provides diners a diverse menu of modern Cantonese cuisine with a wide array of wines, sake and cocktails.

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DRINK & BE MERRY: Speaking of cocktails… for a festive summer drink, try the Bacardi Torched Cherry flavored rum mixed with Coca-Cola. This delicious cocktail creates a Cherry Coke flavor that packs a punch. For recipes explore the free Bacardi Flavors Cocktail Application for the iPhone and iPod Touch available at Apple iTunes.

One of the most popular recipes:
BACARDI TORCHED CHERRY Storm
1 part BACARDI TORCHED CHERRY Flavored Rum
1-1/2 parts pineapple juice
1-1/2 parts cranberry juice
Shake ingredients,pour over ice and garnish with pineapple wedge.

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NIGHTLIFE: Miami locals and visitors flock to the Fontainebleau for trendsetting, high-energy nightlife. LIV nightclub, a favorite for celebrities and those in the know in Miami, offers an eclectic mix of entertainment in a sleek, stylish environment.



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FASHION:

In Miami looking haute is what its all about! Your confidence is your best accessory… that and a hot bikini. For poolside looks that are fun and irreverent, check out swim styles by the House of Jackie Brown. The bold, retro-futuristic swimwear collection can be seen at www.houseofjackiebrown.com.

Another way to make a statement is with your eyewear. It's easy to do that with shades by Stunner of the Month, www.stunnerofthemonth.com. For $9 a month the subscription based program sends members a unisex, usually funky and unique, pair of stunnas. Holla!

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.

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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

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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


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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

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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.

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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 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.

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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