Tell the truth now, who else is sick of all this la-de-da Fourth ‘a July pressure to have the ultimate barbecue crap? Honestly, the last thing I’m desirous of doing this weekend is being marooned outside at some holy terror steaming meat pit of humidity, while sugar-festooned kids lob burning rockets in my general direction. Big noise go bada-boom, the burnt gunpowder smell, ick… no thank you (except for paid vacation days… prego! Uncie Sam). And so in honor of my refusal to celebrate the Fourth with a bottle of Aunt Sally’s sauce and a Bud (call me un-American, I just don’t care), I give to you, freely, and of my own accord, some of my fav little hot spots (and perhaps a taddy more upscale than at first glance) around the island to snack yummy bites and gulp drinkies that are decidedly un-Fourth! Rocket go ka-blam!

ASPEN RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Aspen’s décor is about as quantumly-divergent as it gets from clammy summer nights at the pulled pork pit. The interior is modeled after a ski lodge, but shall we say, mon upscale oui? It’s difficult to describe…but something akin to wandering half-lost through a Swarovski crystal elm forest wearing loden Elvin clogs and howling at the powder sugar November moon (and God bless for the fake mounted deer heads)… it’s really that ethereal (swear). I know the moment I float past the bar that I’m in the former Lola’s. Old rooms in New York have such powerful presence that you never, ever forget a great room (depending heavily upon your level of sobriety which fortunately, is not at issue for me).

You don’t have to be no Suzie Chapstick ski bunny to recognize that the Aspen menu is surprisingly lovely and gratefully devoid of any semblance to an actual ski lodge menu, which is always filled with overpriced greasy bar food and sucky beer (unless you’re in a micro hut in Val d’Isère, eating le pain grille francais avec le fromage soaked in Chardonnay). The summer menu is tapas-style (until 4am…word!), the perfect way to order up a mess ‘a plates ‘n share with your gal gaggle (but don’t invite the grabby girlies, or it’ll be slim pickins). Even this veggie is totally psyched at a great selection to munch on. We order the polenta fries chunky gorgonzola sauce (oh God, I found my soul mate), elote grilled corn-on-the cob with lime-chile aioli & Mexican cheese (takes me back to the jazzy streets of Chicago … deliciosa), roasted asparagus extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs & lime (aligns perfectly with my new green, work-out plan) and hand cut French fries with chipotle ketchup (yah, so kill me, we had two types of frites… what?!). But of all things to love at Aspen, the Gonzo Room hovers head and shoulders above: a private dining room in homage to Hunter S. Thompson, (the “Hunt”), Mr. ultimate electric kool-aid acid test king freak of them all (and role model to millions of kiddies). The G. Room is open late-nights to toast spirits and groove out to groovy spun tunes. And looking to next month, come celebrate Hunter T’s birthday on July 14-21, with Dr. Gonzo (Wild Turkey) Shots and the Raoul Duke cocktail (Wild Turkey, Luxardo Maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice) yowza.) Yick-a-hee-haw!

DUBLIN 6 WINE AND DINE

Waiting for my (late as usual) friend at Dublin 6′s restaurant bar, I attempt to get a lock on the place. Hmmmmm… definitely falls in the realm of the eclectic. Mulling it over a pinch with the aid of a nice frosty Omagong (note: excellent cerveza selection), we ultimately decide that Dublin is a moody, upscale Irish bar with Spago-calibur chow (executive chef, Donal Crosbie, formerly of Spago)… javol ees that goood. And quite brilliantly, a ‘bar-bar’ is attached adjacent to the restaurant… so Dublin patrons have it all.

My wayward friend finally arrives and we take the party outside for a bit of overcast dusky street scope (yes of course we don shades despite the magic hour). Absolutely ravenous, we point madly at the menu and gesticulate wildly. The waiter seems not to notice our frenzy. Since it’s less calories when you share (duh!), we order up a mess’a golden fried Parmesan sticks (Dublin’s chic answer to mozzarella sticks… we’re moving in together), ahi salad (fishies on the side for my girlie’s consumption, thanks matie), French fries (a badgirl staple… are you sensing a theme here?) and of course, a lovely cool Duvel. Keep in mind we’re saving room for what’s rumored to be the end-all of stupendous cakie-cakes…

At the advice of my sage friend (which more than absolves her tardiness), we order the sticky toffee pudding… and the trio of sorbets as an afterthought. Heaven manifests into being and darkness ceases to exist as the desserts arrive. Now I don’t know how they get off calling this bundle of sugary love ‘pudding,’ ’cause it so clearly is the most deliciously orgasmic delicate crumbly melt-in-my-mouth sticky cake concoction I’ve ever laid taste buds upon. But I’ll excuse the pudding semantics, because it absolutely rocks my world. Even for a writer, it’s almost too otherworldly and fleeting to put on paper. (Angels sing, heavens part.) But mark these words, I would swim no-hands, porpoise style from Alcatraz to the East River for another dish of that bliss-inducing, endorphin-releasing slice ‘o nirvana. Oh yah, and the sorbet is tasty too. (And you know I’m slyly dying to know what in the bejeezus is this ‘black pudding’ stuff with the Irish breakfast.)

TRINITY

Penetrating the bowels of Trinity (I know that’s hot, right?), I feel fully certain that I’m entering the Matrix. Passing through a mammoth steely vault door (sooo turn-of-the-century bondage) in what was once one of New York’s original twin towers into the low-lit bar interior (as if Wall St. isn’t matrixey enough on its own). My arse has not quite graced the stool, when Mr. Pink (shirt) sends a glass of Proseco my way. I won’t bore you with the gory details of his gauche banter, but suffice it to say, (even though it sounds sooo dated) I secretly adore being sent a drinkie without so much as an eyelash flutter. Yes ladies, it should be noted in the ledger (Mr. Pink aside) that this venue is a mantrap (we likie that). Good tidings. I’ll drink to that. The bubbly freely flows as me ‘n my girlie peruse the menu for yummy snackie finger bar food. And I can’t help noting the excellent and extensive beer list with many of my Belgian favs. Major props, beer-sommelier-dudes).

Bloomie (already a regular) seems to enjoy his victuals in the somewhat more “mature” dining room, formerly the vault within the vault (and a protectorate of the sovereign nation of Switzerland) as we scarf down French fries with aioli (really more of the tater-tot variety, but as you know, it’s all good to me), creamy cooling hummus Mediterranean platter with a sidecar of beets (I worship the beet madly, must be a Russian thang), and wild mushroom and spinach empanadas with chimichuri sauce (harder to find than you may think and ever so crispy-tasty). My companion uuuummmmm’s her way ecstatically through the shrimp… musta been pretty stellar. And then, my friends… the much anticipated arrival of the tawdry cheesecake. Which can only be described as: dirty filthy rich creamy delicious dangerous… yes, a dangerous dollop of whipped cheesecake with fresh basil sprinkled on top. Jah, not a typo, b-a-s-i-l. And blood oranges. So divine it’s deranged (I think it’s banned in Utah). Trinity’s unique décor and fab food aside, Bloomie gets a round of applause as he exits the joint (there’s no way in tarnation I fantasized that one). Odd… anyhoo, I wonder if he had the cheesecake.

Had enough of my wordy temptation? Are you mad at me now? Then go on and live a little wild, break away from the old smoke pit routine and jaunt into a few new, very hot spots that have blissfully little in common with the Weber grill.

ASPEN
30 West 22nd Street
(212) 645-5040
www.aspen-nyc.com

DUBLIN 6 WINE AND DINE & DUBLIN 6 BAR
575 Hudson Street
(646) 638-2900
www.dublin6nyc.com

TRINITY PLACE
115 Broadway (enter on Cedar)
(212) 964-0939
www.trinityplacenyc.com

DOWNTOWN HOMESTYLE COUTURE
By Amber Roniger

In a city where nothing is truly original and you’ll always spot someone wearing your supposed one-of-a-kind design on the 6 train, it warms the heart to think of handmade pieces, singularly unique, that absolutely no one else has. Indeed, jealousy is a dangerous game. Hence the appeal of summer markets, street and crafts fairs where handmade wares are hocked for a haggle and a femmy smile. Makes me not want to shop in stores anymore (at least for the summer…forgive me, Miucci). I just wanna sashay around town and pick up tons ‘a hip duds on seemingly every street corner (especially weekends). Fortunately, a friend, noting my odd fashion ensembles, had the sense enough to clue me into THE MARKET NYC’S YOUNG DESIGNERS MARKET, an off-the-beaten path collection of up and coming designers, many of whom aren’t selling anywhere outside of the Market yet (not even on Inet). There are so many convention-smashing crazy pieces that catch my critical eye, hot young designers selling their own work, and only too happy to yap it up. Must be mighty easy to place a custom order, me thinks. The Market is just downtown homestyle couture like that. So if you want to sport designers on the absolute fringe of the emerging market, ignore the lack of a.c. and come take a gander at the YDM, trunk show prices with no cover admission.

Below I present to you some of my tastiest finds at the rummage bin that is the Young Designers Market:

ZULASURFING (www.zulasurfing.com)

ZulaSurfing’s jewelry is completely off the chart. I am physically unable to pass Irena Tsafrir’s table by without pausing to gape at the check-it-and-weep-Melania eye-popping rings of gargantuan proportions. Phenomenal raw amethyst, smoky quartz and glass-blown rings literally leave me salivating. Hello shiny, where have you been all my life? Fierce.

Sure, Zula’s other jewelry is gorgeous, especially the amazing Dichroic Glass and Sterling Silver pendants. And I’m especially drawn-in by the Hebrew letters etched in azure blue glass. But I just cannot get over these rings. They haunt me in my sleep. And apparently ZulaSurfing is a newbie to the market, completely ‘undiscovered.’ So sporting those outrageous rings will definitely draw that ‘damn girl, lemme get a load of your bling!’ attention you’re otherwise craving.

LEGS (srkeiser@yahoo.com)

Sara Keiser’s LEGS are off the chain (I know, I keep saying everything is ‘off the…’ but seriously, they are). I call them shredded leggings ’cause, well… just look at ‘em. Now I’m going to date myself, or something, but I absolutely love leg warmers. Love ‘em. Love leggings that look like warmers, (love mufflers, for that matter), just love the snow bunny style. Maybe it stems from being a child of the 70′s, or a modern dancer, or an Irene Cara, Flashdance worshipper, or whatever, but I just dig on ‘em. Can’t really defend it much more than that. So I totally flipped over Sara’s wicked creations. She tells me the original pair was fashioned from leftovers after cutting a denim skirt, and being such the creative conservationist, she sewed them into the crazy rock ‘n roll leg-warmers you see before you. Hot as heck (o yah you betcha)!

ARZADESIGN BAGS & WALLETS (www.arzadesign.com)

Genius. So frippin’ clever. Bag and wallets you can wear like a bracelet while you ballyhoo around town. Hassle free and fashionable whenst running the gamut with o-so many shopping bags in tow. Me, the former club-girl, always looking for handy, minimalistic ways to store my wares… sooo taken in by these bags. Equality of form and function (and we love equanimity).

And they’re not just practical (as in the 1980′s buttbag revolution), they’re sooo dang pretty! The metallic sheen makes ‘em shine like bling-blam ice… loud ‘n large, dahling.

ROCKS AND SALT (rocksandsalt@gmail.com

And speaking of that last-millennium monstrosity formerly known as the buttbag, here are some of ‘em that actually measure up for high fashion. These could be worn with a stylie outfit or sweet suit and not totally ruin them, for chrissakes… nothing less than a small miracle in fannypack dynamics, says I. Props for the high design effect that I always suspected could be artfully applied to the buttbag, but until now had languished in a dearth of hard evidence.

MALI (www.malunyc.com)

Mali Naveh’s kaffiyeh skirts are so innovative yet simple. I dig hard on the drapey, fluttery, girlie effect the traditional headdress makes masquerading as a skirt. Who knew? I appreciate the sentiment of transforming a distinctly mundane clothing item into ethnic high fashion for the summer. Very girlie… yet kick-you-in-your-Laura-Croft-hide tough at the same time. Moto gusto!

A few more designers of note who totally caught the City Pulse ojo:

Wrecords by Monkey (www.recordsbymonkey.com)
CLO Studio (www.clostudio.com)
deadly girl couture (www.deadlygirlcouture.com)
Goldtooth Clothing (www.goldtoothclothing.com)

See ya’ll down on Mulberry Street!

Young Designers Market
11am-7pm
428 Mulberry Street
Weekends this Summer
www.themarketnyc.com

I know, the mere mention of chocolate and you just want to mound and devour it. You ‘n me both sister. My foremost premise in life is the belief that all breathing womens everywhere unanimously view chocolate as the sexiest insentient object in existence. Agreed? Well BOBBI BROWN has maliciously played upon our greatest collective weaknesses by combining two great obsessions into one pert little goddess parcel: CHOCOLATE + Makeup = Nirvana (namaste). Heiffer, you read that right, chocolate fall makeup line…. c-h-o-c-o-l-a-t-e. I know… collective drool.

Break it down for me fellas: Bobbi B. is first and foremost the quintessential makeup artist. She often makes special appearances with her Beauty Team at events around town. Last week at Barney’s, B2 helped customers brush-up on their makeup savvy by guiding them through her signature tips and techniques. Afterward, the Beauty Team gave personalized makeup lessons for beauty ‘tards like me, whose one makeup lesson as a lass was barked by the dance teacher before a performance, “More pancake – and if your crow’s-feet don’t look like a street walker’s you’re not wearing enough!” An ironic makeup education at best.

And the true-to-my-heart breakthrough of next season (read: important) is the “BEAUTY BAR” an actual beautifying chocolate bar created with VOSGES HAUT CHOCOLAT. Is this chocolate malarkey, you gasp?

Beauty Bar is the ultimate antioxidant choco-munchie (halleluiah, all prayers answered!), dark (yes, dark baby) milk chocolate bar with Macha green tea. I defy all you’all (yah you, Jamba giant) to create a more appealing combo of any two objects on the planet. And I have no shame in admitting that despite very carefully etched-out instructions on the label urging one to suck and savor the chocolate, I (with the ‘aid’ of an oh-so-unhelpful friend), scarfed down the entire colossus Beauty Bar in mere minutes. We really were gluttons. Cause hey, girls just wanna antioxidize, they just wanna…

If it seems like Bobbi Brown is everywhere at once, it’s because Bobbi Brown is everywhere at once. Be on the lookout for all these savory up-and-comers: her GOLD COLLECTION; PINK BOUQUET SHIMMER lip-gloss (in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month); expansion of the BEACH COLLECTION; and sure-to-be bestselling guide to aging gracefully, “Living Beauty.” Bobbi advocates for DRESS FOR SUCCESS, helping empower underprivileged young girls and women by teaching them how to prepare for job interviews; and JANE ADDAMS VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL LYFE PROGRAM, providing an array of comprehensive social services so young parents can stay in high school. Be a lovely reader will you, and stay closely tuned to the BeautyNews channel for every luscious morsel and chocolately detail on Bobbi Brown’s full Fall 2006 Chocolate Collection, the créme de la créme, tried to lick-it-up it smelled so yuuuummm, makeup goodies hitting select counters this Fall 2006.

CALLING ALL FASHIONISTAS, WOULD-BE FASHIONISTAS AND BABY FASHIONISTAS
By Alisa Leonard

Hey ladies, check, check this out…top tier celeb makeup artist Orion Willis divulging his celebrity beauty secrets with the hottest 2006 cosmetic lines. No, not selling his secrets to the highest bidder on E-Bay. Uh where/when then…what gives with the suspense? Well I’ll tell ya…at a splendiferous evening with celeb beauty experts (can I have Jen’s hair and Angelina’s lips?), style mavens (I only wear couture, thank you very much), lux cosmetics (for you to love and play with), models (for you to love and… never mind), and even a chance to win a date with Ryan Smith from the Bachelorette. Hmmm, sounds swanky, more info please. Okay, chicas, here it is… time to get seriously beautiful…what say you? Um, yes please, duh! So let’s hear it for the girls…the NEW YORK GIRLS STYLE & BEAUTY CAMPAIGN, that is. Founder, Caroline Rodehau, and fabu sponsors Nikki Beach, Sephora SoHo, Peroni Italy and MPNEWS, have banded together to bring experts, the latest style trends and cosmetics to you in an ‘outside the boxy’ sweet little event. Seriously, this could quite possibly be the best girls’ night out ever; consider the run-down….delicious cosmetics, expert advice, beautiful people (i.e., hunky Ryan Smith), beautiful place (can you say, beds in the bar?!) and wait…did I mention fab prizes?

So where, pray tell, is this night of bliss to be? The jet-set crowd’s NYC destination, Nikki Beach in midtown of course, will be playing host to this all-out glam fest on Wednesday, June 28th from 7-11pm. Gorgeous top model Mariana Coronil will be the event’s spokesperson and just about any and all fashionistas, would-be fashionistas and baby fashionistas will be sorely bummed to miss it…I presume nothing less than tres fantastique, to be quite sure. Come on and learn how to get glam, have some fun, and bring your pack of hungry-for-beauty gal pals to this fete-du-jour that will be…beyond your usual little over-the-makeup counter makeover.

New York Girls Style & Beauty Campaign
Nikki Beach Club
151 East 50th Street
7-11:00pm on Tuesday, June 28th

LINCOLN CENTER
By Lauren Baccus

“I’m bored!” These words out of the mouth of an unfortunate eight year-old babe left in my charge, emotionally scarred by his first encounter with a Victoria’s Secret’s Semi-Annual frenzy. In retrospect… my bad! But for the rest of you, for shame… there’s way too much going on in the gritty city to be bored. I made a summer’s resolution to dedicate more leisure hours to cultural events. And there’s an abundance of special summer programs (aaaaaaah summer) to further enhance the glory of it all going on at LINCOLN CENTER, offering a wonderfully overwhelming array of artistic riches for peoples of all ages and sizes. As an aside mis amigas, lest we forget how spoiled we are here in the NYC, I might remind you that Lincoln Center is the world’s largest performing arts center. All the top brass, the mondo cajones come here to play. It’s home to 12 of NYC’s (nay, the world’s) most illustrious arts programs including: Jazz at Lincoln Center (lead by Mr. Man, Wynton Marsalis), The New York City Opera (eat your heart out Pavarotti) and Ballet (right on point), and The New York Philharmonic (need I say more?). I commit myself to some seriously intensive online research, attempting to get somewhat (of a semblance) of a grip on the dizzying list of intriguing events on Lincoln Center’s summer roster.

It seems the perfect time to get acquainted with Lincoln Center: the 2006 season marks the 40th anniversary of the wildly popular Mostly Mozart Festival, a whimsical celebration of classical music (and happy pockets: the festival is free). Also, some very contemporary and original programs for those less (ahem) enthusiastic about classical music (which is fine, breathe), including: Afro-Peruvian dancing & music, and fiddling from around the world (hoopa!). On my personal to-do (served with a dirty-filthy martini): The Dirty Dozen Brass Band àƒÆ’à¢â‚¬Å¡àƒâ€šà‚­ music to capture the spirit of New Orleans, and Universal Jazz Coalition’s Tap Challenge (o-yah, a tap-off).

There’s always something new at the center, like the Center’s hour-long, guided tours. And just for the kiddies, The American Ballet Theatre offers a one-hour introduction to ballet (ages 4-12) in a series of completely bite-sized and engaging snippets for more “agile” little minds (and kick and plie).

Outdoor lovers must chill this summer with LC’s Out of Doors series of free concerts by The New York Philharmonic and Metropolitan Opera, offered throughout the boroughs and even NJ (pack lots of bug spray, mosquitoes absolutely love Puccini). Other must-sees include: the Lula Washington Dance Theatre of Los Angeles, Caribbean Culture Day and a series of Hawaiian songs and stories from the composer of Lilo and Stitch, all up-coming in August.

So just to recap, the deal is if you’re bored this glorious summer in NYC, you’re just not trying hard enough (read: lame!). And don’t you dare let me hear you whining, “I’m bored!” If you know what’s good for you, you’ll get out there and strap some culture on. That’s how we do.

Visit www.lincolncenter.org for more information

Wanna watch Jon Stewart tweak harder than usual? Learn the word for ‘neighbor whose house is on fire?’ Or know how Will Shortz finagled majoring in crossword puzzles at college? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is most imperative that you check out Patrick Creadon’s effusive WORDPLAY, an innovative movie, which peers into the manic world of puzzle-junkies. Didn’t know such a plane existed? Well neither did I, and it’s still a bit hard to fathom. But after sitting in the IFC Center theatre opening night (which for the longest time was the boarded-up Waverly, right next to the pizza place where me ‘n my high school boyfriend used to… never mind), with an audience chock-a-block with word nerds lobbing rapid-fire questions at Shortz like: “what’s your favorite word”, and “why do you use Brian Eno so much”, I’m a believer. Apparently there’s an entire sub-cultural movement centered on crossword puzzles. Who knew?

I myself am not a puzzle-fiend, but there is something so quintessentially ‘New Yorker’ about the NYTimes crossword puzzle that I just couldn’t resist exploring the phenomena. The movie is genuinely funny and surprisingly moving and I found myself getting emotional near the climax of the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament (yah, there’s an annual competition, and yah, it climaxes, no joke). About 500 top puzzlers from around the country gather at the Stamford Marriot every year to compete for almost no money and somewhat dubious glory. But no matter, because these loquacious word arrangers go for the gusto like it was the Indy 500. Here’s what I love best about this flick: the fact that the filmmakers made it in their spare bedrooms. There’s such an amazing independent spirit to this movie that you just can’t help but be drawn into the film, and intrigued about the why’s and what for’s of storytelling process. It’s a real testament to the willpower of individuals to prevail in the most bizarre of arenas. And as an aside, you wouldn’t believe how many people have crossword puzzle art on their living room walls. Scary!

I’ll tell you what, if you’re feeling a bit intellectually haughty lately and need to be cut down to size, Wordplay is the perfect way to do it. I left the theatre thinking about my unbelievably sparse grasp on the English language and how the next book I read is going to be the dictionary.

www.wordplaythemovie.com
IFC Center: 323 Avenue of the Americas
www.ifcfilms.com

WHERE SIMPLE IS BEAUTIFUL
By Amber Roniger

Black-clad boys pass out truffles in bird’s nests. I think I will, thank you very much. Gurgling serenity fountains and soothing ohm. Architectural design and fierce savoire faire. Killer finger foodies. Stylie all natural nail files (like pooka-shells), earthen pottery wares from the times of Kahn (eer, maybe not that long). Ceramic Moroccan lamb dishes (I was sure they were huge wacky wine decanters, but still… aesthetic). An incense collection from all over the globe that would dazzle and amaze even the globe-trotting Jolie-Pitts. Bubbling Prosecco and designer blue iced tea. Of what, you wonder, do I speak? This Tuesday marked the pre-opening of the stylish new ARCADIA store in the former Big Cup location (a moment of silence for the Cup…okay, over it). Located in Chelsea on Eighth Ave., Arcadia is your new primo hideaway; an oasis of calm (no, really it is) from the honks and hustle of the city streets. Your personal serenity zone/Zen garden/leave-your-worries-behind/spa-shop beautifully stocked with hand-made, fair-trade artifacts and pishy-posh beauty and home products from practically every exotic port of call. The whole joint just kinda screams ‘relax!’ in the most oxymoronic sorta way. You can shop ‘n shop and relax for hours on end in artesian glamour and pampering. Stay all day long if you please (uh, yes please). Each precious product beautifully displayed in Arcadia has been handpicked by owner Jay Gurewitsch to specifically create a counterbalancing force to the insanity storm cloud of everyday city life.

I explore Arcadia’s spa rooms, in which a well-trained staff performs select beauty treatments with DR. HAUSCHKA COSMETICA and MURAD brands for facials, and restorative manicures (as in, fixing the nail nightmare you’re currently sporting from the $7 mani you thought was such a clutch deal), scalp treatments (I hear the men-folk looooove this), skin care consultation, Botox and Restylane.

So if you want it all, and you want it now… then come to Arcadia and see if they can’t satiate your Veruca Salt cravings for the most unique and best-of-the-best products that are out there…anywhere. And be amongst the first to crawl out of the heat and step into the cool of the Zen garden that is Arcadia, before the stomping hordes of Chelsea men discover this as-of-yet, hidden little gem.

Arcadia
228 Eighth Avenue (btw. 21st & 22nd Sts.)
(212) 243-5358
www.arcadianyc.com
Store Interior Picture photographed by Andrew Zrike

KISS THIS
By Alisa Leonard

Kiss me you fool! I’ve sooo always wanted to say that without it coming off somehow ridiculously cheesy… but alas, I think it may be impossible to avoid the cheese. Deepest apologies for that digressive intro, ladies, and straight on to the point! It looks as if the Victoria’s Secret machine has done it again. I mean, the dawn of the IPEX Bra was enough to send this D-cup girl twirling over the moon with glee, but now Vic’s let another kitty out of the must-have bag…luscious lips for summer! Yep, VS’ recently-launched line of bitchin’ balm has an additional six new shades for summer in tres delicious flavors like melon, grape, and sour apple. Remember that old junior high stand-by of Bonne Belle watermelon lipbalm? Well now you can have VICTORIA’S SECRET BEAUTY RUSH LIP GLOSSES…all grown up and delish fabulous. The new shades read like a flirty cocktail menu: happy-hour APPLETINI, pucker up in PINKED LEMONADE, mondo MANGO MADNESS, they’re greeeaaaat! GRAPESICLE, coolin’ COCONUT CRAZE, and I-do HONEY DO….um, yum-yum! Shaken, with a twist, please!

And leave it to Vic to come up with the most innovative way to spread the lip-saving word. Supermodel Izabel Goulart, the newest Victoria’s Secret Angel, was seen screeching around town in a Beauty Rush ice cream truck scooping up no-calorie free samples for the masses. How freaking brill is that?

I must say, me thinks this summer’s forecast is looking hot, tasty and oh-so-kissalicious. With 21 shades and flavors in all, and at only $7 a pop, these lickable flavors may just prove addictive. And despite the awesome price tag, please don’t misunderstand — these ain’t some kiddie lip-smack schmutz you shmear on only for the beach (well you can do that too); they’ve got some serious glam shine going on. Victoria definitely knows sexy, right down to the lips…oh and yes, darlings, they’re kiss-friendly for sure, not eewwy-gooey sticky (of course the kissing scientist tested them personally!). And they have staying shine power….and did I mention tasty? Oh yah, I did. This summer lovin’ I’m gonna have me a blast with a juicy burst of flavor. I’m gonna be that irresistible femme with that begging-to-be-kissed kisser. So come on…and kiss me.

Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Lip Glosses
Visit your nearest Victoria’s Secret
or www.VictoriasSecret.com

THE SLICE GIRLS
By Amber Roniger

This is a warning. This warning is being issued for your own good and the good of all womankind who love pizza. I hope you trust me enough by now to just go with it… there are two of them! Yes, there are two Xerox copies of the same fearless female running SLICE, my fav secret spot for slices on the UES (actually on the whole island). Two identical twins who even I, very savvy in the telling-apart-of-twins-department, have a devil of a time discerning. Why am I bothering with such a lengthy preamble-warning, you find yourself pondering? Because Miki and Radha are so ultra-friendly (and on the premises a lot) that you’re sure to leave after only one visit convinced that you’re BFF. And this can be dangerous. I myself made the predictable mistake of garbling their identities and nobody bothered to clue me in on the twin-scam. And Miki seamlessly picked up on a conversation I’d started with Radha the previous week without even blinking an eye. So be forewarned!

But enough of these peripherals and onto the saucy, crusty content. Slice is a brilliantly simple concept in pizza: healthy organic ‘za that tastes amazing. Easy, right? Not so much. Sufficed to say, I’ve tried just about every purportedly healthy pizza in NYC and some of it tastes like mutilated cardboard topped with rubberized soy crumblies, no friend of this picky palette. Slice refers to itself as the perfect food and I must concur. Each slice at Slice is freshly prepared as you order and you can customize the toppings in any which way (including soy & rice cheese…my personal version of veggie-hog heaven). And they have organic meats as well for the carne connoisseur (see, I’m liberal like that). Although I don’t know why you’d mess with perfection… they have truly terrific pre-fab combinations on their menu, like the Simpleton: honey whole wheat crust, marinara sauce and organic mozzarella (the basic of the basics), the Intermediate: honey whole wheat crust, marinara sauce, caramelized onions, arugula and goat cheese (you cannot imagine how good fresh greens slide over the tongue), and the Wizard: the basics topped with bruschetta (omg, so, so beyond). And don’t be fooled by the apparent gradations of the slices’ names, all are delectable and delicate, suitable to any discerningly fierce palette (which of course, you have).

I was constantly harassing the twins to hike it just one block up 74th Street to check out my faithful raw food friend, BlueGreen. You know how I love to follow the Yellow Brick Road of yummy healthy foods and see where it leads. So I was so pleased to learn that Slice’s slices were going to be available for eats at JIVAMUKTI YOGA CENTER’s new café in Union Square, run by, you guessed it, BlueGreen. Small foodie world, hu? Delicious!

JIVAMUKTEA CAFE is totally vegan, but not raw, which is why Slice’s ‘za fits in so flawlessly. I made a visit to the Jiva café this weekend and it’s absolutely stunning, and hidden away ever so cleverly from the rif-raf and street fray of the Square. There, I was unwittingly coerced into staying for a free lecture by Shivarudra Balayogi, this yogi-guru man wrapped in a red sheet (and yes of course I kept wondering what he was wearing under there… who could resist?). Jiva’s yoga/meditation space is huge and airy and their roster of events is really extraordinary (for yogi-heads… I know deep down you are). And afterward, you can drop on by the café for a fab fresh green juice and leefy salad. And of course a heavenly slice from Slice. The twins told me the center’s opening party was a real bash. (Sting, I’m still awaiting my invitation… it ‘musta gotten lost in the mail. But I forgive you.)

But please indulge me one moment more by allowing me to plug an up-coming event at BlueGreen (the one in my ‘hood at 74th St.) that will be ever so delicious and not to miss: SUMMER DINNER led by chef, Matthew Kenney, is an entire raw food meal served up fresh to you (every two weeks) this Thursday. If you’ve never done raw, you will be floored by the creative concoctions and spellbinding desserts that you’d never in a million years guess were indeed raw.

So indulge yourself in pizza, drown yourself in raw ice cream and feel self-satisfied that you’re eating the healthiest foodie-food out there (and sssshhh…nobody has to know how damn delicious it really is!). And beware of those sneaky Slice twins (see, I got your back).

Slice The Perfect Food
1413 2nd Avenue @ 74th Street
(212) 249-4353
www.sliceperfect.com

Jivamukti Yoga School
841 Broadway, 2nd Floor
(212) 353-0214
www.jivamuktiyoga.com

GLAMOUR IN THE CITY
By Lauren Baccus

Don’t be sad be glad that it’s time for a bit of nostalgia: whenever I visited my grandmother as a little girl, two things were guaranteed. #1: At some point I would be thoroughly interrogated as to the whereabouts of a slice of baloney (or some other equally-unimportant processed meat) that went unaccounted for in her daily tally (yes, for real). #2: For at least three blissful hours, I would have unabated reign over her extensive grandma collection of makeup and jewelry. As I applied and combined colors with abandon, she would sit and watch, chuckling at my excitement.

My grandmother was quite the diva, but more importantly, she was a lady. To me, she will always define an inextricable combination of grace, glamour and beauty that is ever so rare to come by. It was like she had some magical ability to tap into a certain radiant power source within herself. It’s that same source that all of us women share and also that which drives and inspires so many really terrific femmy organizations like GLAMOUR GALS.

When I first met Glamour Gals’ founder RACHEL DOYLE at their GLAMOUR IN THE CITY event this month, I was immediately struck by her genuine passionate for her organization’s work. Glamour Gals connects high school student volunteers with nursing home residents for complimentary facials and makeovers. (Uh, hi, where do I sign up? Oh yah, I’m neither a teenager, nor a senior, but still…) GG began six years ago as a young girl’s initiative to foster meaningful connections between the generations and has now blossomed into a nationally recognized, non-profit organization sponsored by MAYBELLINE and boasting quite an impressive collection of fans, advisors and supporters (me = #a1-fan!).

The Glamour in the City event featured key note speakers Tim Gunn of Project Runway (Mr. Tight-lips himself), and Dr. Sheila Johnson, co-founder of BET and CEO of Salamander Hospitality (yah, how badly do you wanna be her?). Also on board to lend support were Nathaniel Hawkins of Treseme and reps from Maybelline. Their collective presence is a powerful testament to the tremendous impact the organization has had on so many lives.

Throughout the evening, guests were hooked-up with complimentary makeovers and hair styling tips. But the special treat was Glamour Gal’s first ever “GLAMMIES” award ceremony recognizing their outstanding volunteers. With 30 chapters throughout 7 states, Rachel is quick to acknowledge the dedication and work of the high school volunteers who could just as easily spend their time in the mall or chatting online with their peers (too kewl for skool). For these girls (hailing from Irvington High School in NJ and Thomas Edison High School in Queens, among others), the Glamour Gals appeal is a unique opportunity to exercise their strength as leaders in a way that positively impacts them, at least as much as the amazing and beautiful women they dote their attention on.

Rachel, who travels to high schools and speaks on numerous panels, continues the good work of hyping interest in Glamour Gals. And as the glam members enter into college, many establish chapters on their new campuses, further spreading the word to the world beyond high school (as if!). And even if your days of mid-terms and dorm rooms are (thankfully) in the past, there are still tremendous opportunities to participate in Glamour Gals. Contributions can be made through their website at www.glamourgals.org or simply by using the internet search engine “Goodsearch.” And fabulously, once Glamour Gals is established as your preferred charity, the website donates one penny for every search (and your thoughts). So keep those good pennies from heaven raining down on Glamour Gals and keep the all-important connection between the female generations alive and strong for years to come.

It aint easy being a pleaser, that’s fo’shore. I think you hear what I’m saying. And you girls know I had a haggard one last night. That is, if you came to our fabulous party you know it. But there are some splendid events up-coming that are just too grand not to shout about. Call it a compulsion, I don’t care. So City Pulse simply had to do a bonus mailing this week ’cause of Father’s Day and all. There was just no way around it. So, I’ll make this brief and to the point. Here are the two events that I just must dial into your fashionista radar…

SHOP OPERA!

Oh, you know I’m so totally into this… anything pertaining to a pastime where actors simultaneously weep and sing so tragically tops off my list of must-do’s in any time zone. Cause by now you know I’m haughty like that. Really, Meisner has nothing on these opera divas. Which is why it’s so hot that CITY OPERA THRIFT SHOP is throwing DIVAS SHOP FOR OPERA, a shopping event to benefit New York City Opera’s Costume Department. And for yours truly, who was a cardboard robot-loser three Halloweens in a row, this to-do is practically compulsory. This year’s affair will be held at INDUSTRIA SUPERSTUDIOS on WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21ST from 6 – 10pm, and co-chaired by stylist and designer Patricia Field, City Opera Board Member, Alexandra of Greece and Elle Magazine’s, Anne Slowey. Oh yah, the real life divas who make it all happen.

Ok, I’m going to give you the list of donors now. I’m trying to prepare you ahead of time for the utter fabulousness about to unfold and I really don’t fancy seeing you head-to-forehead drama queen tip sideways onto the fainting couch. It just seems overly dramatic. Deal?

Isn’t she fierce? Anyhoo… come on out and rock lobster to the opera aria of apparel and accessories donated by (among others): Giorgio Armani, Manola Blahnik, Bill Blass, Burberry, Celine, Chanel, Emma Cook. I know, you could just lap it up with a spoon…

And the list goes on… Charles Chiang Lima, Christian Dior, Pesavento Couture. Wait, couture mannequins? Do you love it? Do you love it?! Then sing it!

Gucci, Hermes, John Hardy, Carolina Herrera, Sylvia Heisel, Marc Jacobs, Betsey Johnson, Donna Karan, Michael Kors, Helmut Lang, Christian LaCroix, Nanette Lapore, Judith Leiber. I mean hot damn, these dummies are better dressed than I am!

Max Mara, Nicole Miller, Thierry Mugler, Zac Posen, Prada, Pucci, Rapunzel’s Closet, Sergio Rossi, Jill Sander, Yves St. Laurent, Anna Sui, Spoylt, Tuhel. Uh yah, I told you. Breathe, breathe.

Oh and I almost forgot, cocktails to sip while you browse the rows of new and vintage duds. Are you just in hog heaven? I thought as much. So show your pretty puddin’ face and rock ‘n shop until you’ve either maxed out the gold card, or you’re ready to plotz.

DIVAS SHOP FOR OPERA
Tickets purchase or invites: 212 870-4018
or email: thriftshop@nycopera.com
Wednesday, June 21st
Industria Superstudio (Studio 10)
356 West 12th Street

SOMETHING FOR THE LADIES

And for my next magic trick, ladies, treat yourselves to something sweet while the dudes are busy returning those lame ties their mums bought them for Father’s Day. Come tango with one of my absolute favorite things… the perfect plush combination of savory substances rolled into one flawless little treasure. The WINE AND CHOCOLATE MATCHUP is assured to leave you breathless. Brought to you by WEEKLY CRUSH (website for the wine connoisseur) and MARIBELLE SWEETS (chocolatier to the jetset just too slammed this week to jump on their private skiff to the Alps).

Ooooh…ode to the stupendous pairing of blissful eats. The melt-in-my-mouth marriage of equal and opposites, creating the perfect synergy between opposing forces. Firing and electrifying my ‘to die for’ synapses. Yah, it’s that decadent. No really, you know it’s absolute poetry when the right combination of chocolate and wine mixes on your tongue. You could just say a prayer and float up to heaven. Or at least down to Soho on June 21st from 7:00-8:30 to learn from the splendeferous team of Nicole Gammino and Kate Lushpenko about different theories of pairing together chocolate and wine. And the best part is that you get to sample them all to find the perfect match (think Patsy and Adina at the wine tasting).

Not too much into kayaking? Hate the sun? Well then a chocolate and wine adventure is right up your foodie alley. These chocolates are so gorgeous you could just throw them on with a floppy hat and a flash pair of shades and be on your stylie way. Trust the voice of the City Pulse, o-yah, it’s that lush.

WINE AND CHOCOLATE MATCHUP
June 21st, 7-8:30
MarieBelle’s Cacao Bar
484 Broome Street

To reserve your seat:
call Nicole: (917) 502-0019, or Kate: (866) 925-8800, ext. 101
www.weeklycrush.com
nicole@weeklycrush.com

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
By Stef Schwalb

I’m a big believer in karma. I’m quite sure that what comes around always goes around, which can be a pretty sweet deal – especially when you’re indulging in something plush (yes, please) that also supports a great cause (talk to me, daddy): like getting a bombastic haircut. If you’re all for that (do I even have to ask?) then listen up, lovely readers, because here’s a cannot-miss (why would you miss it?) opportunity. Our good pals at REDKEN are throwing a hair party of sorts, an all-day CUT-A-THON with their superstar stylists on hand to cut and fluff some charitable donors’ frazzled crops into super stylie dazzling ‘dos (minimum $25 donation to AMERICA’S SECOND HARVEST’s campaign to end hunger). This closely cropped event takes place on JUNE 23rd from 8am to 4pm at the REDKEN EXCHANGE on Fifth Avenue, in proud partnership with BCAUSE (a nonprofit organization advancing charitable causes of salon industry professionals). You’ll feel fully satisfied flaunting your ferocious-new-do knowing that all proceeds go directly to the charity. This is an awesome way to do some karmic good and get a fab look you’ll love for summer at a simply savory price point (both karma and cash!).

The hottest (of the hot) commodity at the Cut-A-Thon, which will be at your well-heeled disposal, is personal hair-time with Redken coif-artists from all around the country, lending you the benefit of their Edward Scissorhands magic touch. Here’s a partial list of some of the hottie-tottie stylists who will be creating the strands you’ll savor for summer: Noah Hatton, an editorial stylist, working his mojo at the Esteban Cortazar shows the past two seasons; Josh Marquette, a stylist, who made some serious mane music for the hit Broadway show, “Mamma Mia”; Brian Renfro, a stylist for the “The View’s” V.I.P.’s; Sam Leonardi, an editorial and session artist, working with numerous top fashion mags; Giovanni Giuntoli, an editorial session artist, making beautiful ‘dos backstage at NY Fashion Week; Ramie Roth, an editorial and session artist, who styled the “Twinkle” show full of lustrous locks; and Tyler Elizabeth Graee, a stylist, who coifs muchos cool musicians, and worked several one-hit wonders on the A&E series “Breakfast of the Arts.”

Psyched-up and ready to play? Well then take that beautiful head of hair (mayhaps needing a slight trim around the edges, if you don’t mind my saying so) on over to Redken’s Cut-A-Thon and get ready for your close-up, Mz. Monroe. Sign up at the RECEPTION AREA (spaces on a first come, first serve basis). When your name is called, make your donation and prepare yourself to be wowed with a rockin’ new do-gooder’s ‘do, the best kind of style there is.

Redken Cut-A-Thon
June 23rd – 8am to 4pm
Redken Exchange On Fifth Avenue
Enter through Redken Gallerie & up to 2nd Floor

What do you mean you haven’t gone Father’s Day shopping yet? Are you mad?! Time is running out and Father’s Day is just a few little hours away (ok, a few days). And call me nutty, but I don’t think Dad is going to appreciate another wacky tie, his third personalized coffee mug, or anything else pulled off the discount rack (better known as your arse) on your way home to the family bbq. What to do, what to do?

Dads (as in ‘men’) have a tendency to get a little set in their ways as they get older, yet like all youngies, they still wish to be hip and cool. Which is what mom is for, to keep them with it as best she can, and to make sure they don’t leave the house looking… well…less than desirable (you know exactly what I’m talking about and please, for the love of God, pull those socks down below your calves!). These gifts I’ve dug up especially for you are the key to keep Dad on the cutting edge and too cool for golf school!

For Dad On The Links – X1R REMOTE CONTROL CADDIE
Odds are that Dad likes to golf, and despite his age, boys always like to flaunt their toys. The X1R is not only one of the most high tech golf caddies out there, it looks completely geeked-out too (in that dadish sorta way). The standard version is completely remote controlled from up to (approximately) 50 yards away. Running on a rechargeable battery, the X1R will last you from dawn till dusk on a single charge and features a lightweight, highly compact design for ease of transportation.

The Special Edition is available in custom colors, and with custom symbols (far more sane than that tattoo he’s been threatening to get for years). And might I recommend matching the vanity plate on Dad’s Porsche, just a suggestion he’s sure to love…

For More Information: www.stewartgolfusa.com
Price: $1,995

For Dads Workshop – CRAFTWORKS REFRIGERATOR
The Craftworks Refrigerator is the perfect addition to any Pop’s workshop. Stock it with Dad’s favorite brew (c’mon, you know why he sneaks down there every night at cocktail hour). The fridge looks just like a toolbox, with locking wheels and an interior designed to accommodate stacked cans, 2-liter bottles, and gallon jugs. I mean seriously, a beer fridge that masquerades as a toolbox is every faux gear head’s little fantasy.

For More Information: www.craftworksfridge.com
Price: $299

For Dad At Home – LOCK STOCK & BARREL GROOMING
What do you do when Dad’s been using the same old hair products since… forever… that weren’t even all that when they entered the market during the Regan era? Get him the latest from the other side of the pond and rock the Euro-savvy dad-do! Lock Stock & Barrel Grooming offers a full line of men’s hair care that’ll get him up to speed on the ever-changing products scene.

For More Information: www.groomingmenusa.com
Price: $16.25 – $20.50

For Dad At The Office – MOTOROLA Q SMARTPHONE
Stoke Dad up to wow all his friends with the latest and greatest in cell phone technology (hello, moto). The Motorola Q has more bells and whistles than the pimply IT guy’s handset. It sports a QWERTY keyboard, high-speed wireless broadband, Windows Mobile 5.0, Bluetooth, E-mail, and of course, it’s got a camera. And at only .45 inches thick, the Q is the thinnest smartphone on the market, and has a completely DOPE name (think 007, Inspector Gadget)!

Now available…only from Verizon Wireless.

For More Information: www.vzwshop.com/q/
Price: $199.99 (with rebate)

For The uber Health Conscious Dad – GENTS, LLC
Show Paw you want to keep him around for years to come by shopping at Gents, LLC, offering completely natural, men’s-only cosmetics, the perfect gift for the Dad who takes his skin’s health seriously. Recent legislation in California and Europe started a smart trend toward cosmetics which don’t contain (certain) products that could be potential carcinogens. In response, Gents sells only certified all natural products. Love ‘ya, Pop!

For More Information: www.gentsllc.com

For The Simple Dad – JACK BLACK SHAVE IN A BAG
Jack Black grooming presents Shave in a Bag, a very simple and masculine product line designed to create the coveted perfect shave. Shave in a Bag comes in a very manly black flannel sack containing Face Buff, Beard Lube and Post Shave. When used together, these products make for one the best shaves imaginable. So Moms out there, go on and snuggle up with Dad without that wicked fear of the stubbly beard!

Price: $44.00
For More Information: www.GetJackBlack.com
Also Available At: Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Sephora & Bloomingdales

Let’s have an egalitarian Father’s Day, shan’t we? Get caught up with the current century, ladies and gents, and face facts that in the not-so-distant past, men were ingenious enough to buy us womens washing machines for our birthdays and vacuum cleaners for Mother’s Day. And this smarmy practice ensued for generations with little revolt. Well Mr. Mom, it’s time for payback, femmy-style… oh yes it’s time. C’mon now… why not show him who’s really in charge of the purse strings? Train that man in your life for fatherhood with the chicest diaper bags and plushest baby snugglies for the whippersnappers for Father’s Day. And keep saving up to buy yourself that huge rock, girrrl, you know you deserve it. My point is thus: F’s Day is the perfect excuse to buy the honey-babies the cutest little-muffin gear, slap on a perfunctory Dad’s Day card (you vibing on my perfect scam?) and call it a Sunday. You know I’m all heavy into the kiddie cause now because of my new niece (bar none the biggest pumpkin that side of the Mississippi), so in celebration of both occasions, I found some of the most ‘dorable kids’ and hip mommy (eer, daddy) apparatus ever. Ladies, you know there’s nothing hotter than a fine papi strutting his stuff with his gorgeous kid on hand, all duded-out with all the latest young-ones accouterments.

First off, LIL’ DIVA (www.lildivabags.com) makes these supremely stylie-mod diaper bags (as well as totes and clutches, but again, you see the baby obsession) that I’m sure every new daddy is just vying to get his gruff paws on (wink). You could straight-up swing by the go-go club with one of these flung ever so carelessly over your devil-may-care shoulder and be right in stride with the non-mommy (I mean, studly papa) crowd.

The three styles this season each elicit their own sleek kitschy vibe: Mod Groove, Miss Shopaholic and Retro Wave, available in two diaper bag sizes with matching roll-n-go changing pad, with room enough for a laptop. All bags are machine-washable, essential for easy care of the inevitable diaper yuckies.

So okay, enough hip fabulousness for one special little dad’s Sunday? Me thinks not! You must check out WALLCO JR.’s too-too baby outfits. I almost slaughtered myself at the wheels of an onrushing vehicle as I hurl myself across West Broadway (between Spring & Broome) to check out this amazing table of handmade baby-wares (insert cavelling here). Where I find Erin, seamstress extraordinaire, hand sewing felt animals onto onsies and baby tank tops for sale. Her designs have my mouth formed into a permanent ‘ooooooohhhhhh,’ every piece uniquely darling and completely coo-worthy. I rush to buy a froggie onsie for my niece, post haste.

I just have to know… does this chica sew every single adorable piece by hand? Holy crap, yes indeed; unbelievable and damn rare in this mass-produced day ‘n age. And so, where else ‘sides somewheres on West B-way might one buy her designs? Well since it’s pretty dern proprietary the only other spot is this super clutch store, SERIMONY, in Carroll Gardens ( I know, sooo far to BK, but trust me, it’s worth it) with really unique and beautifully handmade goods (and art exhibitions of local artists). Serimony also sells Erin’s stuffed animals and her loopy designs on their exclusive, supremely hip greeting card line. I know, menfolk, you just want to put it in your pocket and carry it around all day its so squidgy (yah, uh-huh).

So guys, forget the golf clubs you’re coveting, forego the luxury suite fantasies and focus in on being that lovable family guy this Sunday. You’ll be such the stud for whoopeeing over those darling diaper bags and onsies (even if you have to fake it a little). Whadd’ya think of them apples?

www.lildivabags.com

Serimony Invitations and Announcements
421 Court Street
Carroll Gardens, BK
718.797.0679
www.serimony.com

One great big sausage-cheesy-gloopy-greasy-oniony-’mo-better-meaty-meat hero-on-a-bun to go, please. Better make that two, I might get hungry in a pinch. Like you’d catch me dead scarfing aforementioned monstrosity into my face on some indiscriminate street corner! But you can view people stuffing it in with such vengeance almost any time, at almost any random food fair during the summer months in NYC, in the soon-to-be wilting weather (oooh yes, you know it’s yet to come, my kitties). So how will the veggie brigade ever balance out this meat binge overtaking the steaming city? Thank goodness EARTHSAVE (founded by John Robbins, Baskin-Robbins heir who rebelled against the ice cream grain) and TASTE OF HEALTH NYC, are having a food tasting that’s much more at my yogi speed. JUNE 17, 2006 marks the fifth annual NEW YORK CITY TASTE OF HEALTH FOOD FESTIVAL at LINCOLN CENTER (sponsored in part by THE INSTITUTE FOR INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION). Taste of Health (www.tasteofhealth.org) is a food fest that is here to save the planet! Well… or maybe just make us city dwellers a teensy bit more conscious about the relationship between the foods we imbibe and products we use, and our breezy beautiful breathable environment.

Join this City Pulse Chica for the free food-tastings and samplings, exhibitions (including Aveda – so brilliant! and Arbonne – so intelligent!), empowering lectures (Brendan Brazier, amongst others) and discussions on health, fitness and aging, amazing recipes, music and food demos, and a silent auction. Edju-mi-cate yourself to prepare healthy meals, shop for eco-friendly foods and environmental products, and fill your fecund mind with all kinds of earth-loving info. This is the perfect activity for conscious parents to tote along the kiddies and say, ‘thank you Mother Earth, you’re sure swell’ on the last Saturday before Father’s Day.

See www.tasteofhealth.org for full program schedule.

How much more can we tease you? Taunt you and tempt you? Flaunt our goodie-wares and lure you sneakily away from all other less-than events on the eve of June 15th, to support a most worthy cause of Amnesty International and celebrate BeautyNewsNYC’s third anniversary? All rolled into one lovely, lusty fete worthy of your best cocktail dress and peacock feathered wrap. If the appeal of free beauty-treaties from Osmotics skin care, Stila, Bond No. 9 and more don’t get your Dorothy-Draper-diva-dinner-bell ring-a-ding-dinging, then I don’t know what will! Mayhaps the lure of having a chance to win a gorgeous piece of jewelry from ROCKRAS, dashing dapper ties from the Alex Hitz collection, a six-month memebership at SportsClub LA…along with new workout gear from Adidas, or one of the other FABULOUS raffle packages that will be yours for the taking (tickets are $20 and 100% of the procedes go to Amnesty International’s campaign to Fight Human Trafficking). And don’t worry if you don’t win one of the amazing raffle items, you can turn that ticket in for a sweet-azz goody bag full of fun!

So do be the savvy femme-fatale-about-town that we know you are and remember to RSVP. It would be deeply lamentable if you are ever so dreadfully forced to hear most terribly at the door, “So sorry, mon amie, you’re not on the list!” Join in with us, schmooze and sippy, celebrate and donate with a simple RSVP to: rsvpbeautynews@gmail.com or (917) 334-7852. This will do the trick kindly and ensure your spot at our celebration to help us to ring in our terrific three’s! We daren’t think of doing it without you!

www.beautywk.com
www.beautywk.com/hotpicks.asp