Find Out How to Make Kim Kardashian YOUR Personal Stylist – and Look Amazing…

Every fashion savvy New York City chick knows that shoes are a very good thing.  And no one knows that better than the LA-turned-NYC-chick Kim Kardashian, who launched a website to sate shoe thirst for gals everywhere.  Shoedazzle is a site where you fill out a fun, quick survey to give Kim an idea of your unique style, and then she and her team of Hollywood stylists will put together a “showroom” for you each month featuring shoes, bags, and jewelry specific to your tastes.  Better than that, each item in your showroom costs only $39.95 – we’re talking sexy shoes, hot purses, and sparkly bling, all on the cheap!

Shoe-loving fiends like myself have been buzzing over this site for months, so if you haven’t checked it out, now’s the time.  It’s basically like having a personal stylist pick out your shoes for you for less than forty bucks a month – better yet, there are no shipping and handling charges, and exchanges are free.  Kim and her team come up with some pretty fab styles each month, and if you don’t like them, you can request to have stylists try again and send you another cute collection.  If you find you’re not in love with anything, you can opt out for that month and you won’t pay a dime… but this isn’t likely to happen, as each of these sweet pairs is sure to make you look like a dime-piece!

As far as the shoes themselves go, they certainly don’t look as cheap as they are, and they’re also well made and comfy.  Kim makes the final call on every shoe in her collection, so you know you’ll be stepping out in style.  The service is fast, reliable, and tons of fun.

Try it out today, and get 50% off your first pair through this link to Shoedazzle when you order the day you sign up.  You have nothing to lose, and you know you need some kickass shoes for all the awesome events on Pulsd you’re going to attend!

Tales of a Live Audience Member at the Wendy Williams Show

Today I decided to take advantage of one of the many great deals we pitch here on Pulsd, and attend a free live audience taping of the Wendy Williams Show.  The outing required me to roll out of bed an hour earlier than usual, which was a bit of a stretch for me, but it turned out to be well worth the loss of some good shut-eye!

Tickets were handed out on a first come first served basis, but because they do some coordination beforehand by signing audience members up a few days in advance, everyone who turned up got in easily.  After hanging out in the waiting area with coffee and donuts, we were ushered into the studio to some early morning hip-hop and disco jams.  Before Wendy even graced the stage, an MC danced with audience members, the DJ got some great sing-a-longs going, and an 82-year-old man and his wife dominated in a dance competition held amongst energetic fans – bear in mind this all happened before 10am.

Probably the most interesting aspect of taking part in a live audience is how big of a role you actually play.  Prior to taping, associate producers led practice rounds of “oohs”, “aahs”, and applause, encouraging us to go completely over the top.  When Wendy finally stepped out, the studio echoed with a multitude of “How you doin’s?” – Wendy’s signature line.  And little did I know, but Wendy’s guest that day happened to be Larry King, live and in studio, the highlight of an already fantastic morning.

There’s a lot more that goes into these shows than you ever see on television, so consider snagging some free tickets today!  People travel from all across the country to New York to take part in these tapings happening right in our very neighborhoods, so take advantage of living here and explore your favorite shows with free tickets offered right here on Pulsd!

She’s The First Turns 1 – and Celebrates in Style!

On November 1, 2010, She’s The First held its very first birthday soiree.  An organization devoted to promoting girls’ education, particularly in the developing world, She’s The First has been creating awareness by way of celebrity spokesperson JoJo; their renowned, fab Girls Who Rock concert; and now their stylish leather identity bracelets.  Indeed, it’s been one heck of a first year – and the celebratory birthday bash was more than worthy!

Held at Pop Burger, the event had it all – birthday cake, dancing, photos, and friends to share it with!  In between burgers, cupcakes, and wine, guests enjoyed music by DJ Kalkutta, a photo booth filled with fun props, and an incredible dance performance by iNFiN8.  A raffle full of fashion, beauty, and entertainment items included a Tory Burch bag that Gayle King rocked on the Red Carpet.

She’s The First also debuted their signature bracelet that night, crafted from genuine leather and brass by Asha Patel Designs.  Twenty percent of proceeds support the organization, so be sure to check it out!

The evening was a success, not just because the party itself was a smash hit – She’s The First raised enough money to sponsor one year of education for a girl at the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project in India, a cost which includes school, housing, meals, medical needs, and recreation.  Even in celebration She’s The First is an organization that makes an impact on girls’ education in the developing world, and has a wonderful time doing it.  Be sure to check out more of their events on Pulsd in the months to come!

Thank you DJ Hipnotic for a number of reasons:

1) Syndicating the hottest music over the air in New York City

2) Access to up-and-coming artists with exclusive celebrity interviews

3) Giving me the chance to embarrass myself on air at least once a week…

But seriously, your show is awesome.  Keep bringing us the beats, and pulsdJFK will continue to send out the pulse of what’s hot in New York City.

“Team Can” Runs for Cancer at the ING New York City Marathon… Can You Do It?

It seems like yesterday I was staring at signs plastered inside the subway and at bus stops advertising last year’s ING New York City Marathon and thinking, “Thank you, public transportation!”  I was a varsity track and field runner all through high school, but all grace and vigor ended at the 200-meter mark; so a 26 mile 385 yard death race just never seemed quite in the cards for me.  Anyhow, as it turns out, 2010’s marathon is upon us, and the application period is in fact over – unless, that is, you decide to run for a charity like Team Continuum.

Team Continuum, also known as “Team Can”, has been running for cancer patients since 2003, providing them and their families with immediate and vital assistance, both practical and personal.  An official Charity Partner of the New York Road Runners, the not-for-profit is a fixture in the ING NYC Marathon, rolling out in the hundreds to  “Turn Cancer into CAN”.

Last week they asked me to join them for a run in Central Park, where they train twice a week together.  Readying myself to join the ranks of bona fide marathoners, I prepared to get left in the dust.  The group I found when I arrived was, indeed, a group of bona fide marathoners, including a woman who had just finished the Ironman.  Dang.  But there were also those who, like me, had shown up to see what this marathon thing was all about, having little or no experience with such an intense test of endurance.  What’s more, the veteran runners held no grudge about mingling with us plebeians, instead going out of their way to encourage and share with us valuable running techniques.

The attitude of Team Continuum is as warm and altruistic as their mission.  Abiding by the rule that no individual will run alone and whoever needs to turn back will have someone to turn back with, this is a team that truly welcomes the curious, the inexperienced, the self-conscious, and the newbies like me just looking to have a good time.

So if you’ve ever had thoughts of running a marathon, why not try it now?  You may not be able to blow them all away with your mad running skills, but I can tell you that the months will certainly blow by, and soon we’ll be looking at next year’s marathon.  Race day is November 7, so there’s still time to get involved and train adequately, and if you join Team Continuum you’ll have access to exceptional coaching, race day gear, a physical therapist, and… a private pre-race pasta party!  Most important, you’ll achieve a great personal victory all while running on behalf of a great cause.

Visit Team Continuum today to register for the race and start fundraising – goal is $2,950 per person.  You can also visit their website at www.teamcontinuum.net or call 917.595.4168 for more information.

This heart-pumping event really puts the “Pulse” in PulseJFK!

Peace, Love, and FREE Ice Cream, Courtesy of PulseJFK and Ben & Jerry’s

Gone are the days of the anxious feeling when that soft, magical chime originated somewhere far off in the distance; you scraped together the coins from your pockets and piggybank; and rushed to the edge of the sidewalk as the sound of “The Entertainer” burst around the corner, and, yes:  the ice cream man had arrived.  We New Yorkers often delight in our bold rejection of suburbia and all of its charms, instead finding solace in the gelato carts, soft serve booths, and frozen yogurt shops nestled onto each street and avenue of this delicious city.  But sometimes the anticipation of frozen delicacies on wheels is more appetizing than any of it; and that is why, yesterday afternoon, PulseJFK brought you the biggest, baddest, yummiest of them all – the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Truck.  Better yet?  It was free.

After the truck made stops outside the Farley Post Office, Parsons The New School for Design, and the NYU Bookstore, PulseJFK scheduled it to pull up alongside the arch on the north edge of Washington Square Park.  The twangy ice cream truck tune of yesteryear gave way to the vibrant tie-dye shirts of B&J aficionados Mic and Terrance, who rocked the scene and kept a steady stream of Cookie Dough, Cherry Garcia, and Peanut Brittle flowing.  I would know, because I hung around the entire time, enjoying frozen treats with passersby, schoolchildren, and many of you, who all turned out to claim your free ice.  I know, sometimes this gig is hard.

Summer 2010 is only three days old, but fortunately for us, the Ben & Jerry’s truck will be making stops throughout the city for the next 3 weeks.  So make sure to stay on top of things at PulseJFK, where we know where that baby is going to be all summer long!

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Urban Girl Squad: Taking NYC by Storm

Last night I attended the Urban Girl Squad Summer Kickoff Cocktail Party on behalf of PulseJFK – sorry team, girls only…  The soiree was held at the Polar Lounge in the Marcel at Gramercy Hotel, a cool subterranean space filled to the brim with eclectic cocktails, shimmering wintry touches, and delightful company.  A ticket to the arctic got you one free drink; a room full of charming, sophisticated gals to share it with; and a raffle ticket to win a stockpile of fab prizes – think Swarovski crystal-studded sports bras, three-hour style and closet consultations, and $200 worth of deluxe skin care solutions.  As far as their swag goes, these ladies certainly know how to bat in the big leagues.

Urban Girl Squad’s roots date back to February 2008, when founder Amanda Hofman saw a need for a space for women in their 20s and 30s to come together and form worthwhile female friendships.  Today, members of the community-based social group explore NYC through various outlets, including food and wine tastings, beauty and fashion nights, dance and fitness classes, and sports events.

Last Saturday I joined other Urban Girls to volunteer at Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN), a national organization providing recreational opportunities for children and young adults with developmental and physical disabilities.  Over the course of the afternoon, each volunteer spent time with a KEEN program participant, leading them through different sports and arts and crafts.  The event was the perfect opportunity to get out and participate in an activity I likely wouldn’t have found on my own, put a smile on a child’s face, and meet a solid group of young ladies.

And so it is with Urban Girl Squad:  a fantastic organization bringing forth a myriad of active, urbane young women into this bustling city; bringing them together in fun, creative ways; and bringing out the best in them.  So make sure to look out for their latest on PulseJFK, where we always bring you everything and anything notable in New York City!

Take it To The Sky – Kevin Rudolf’s Album Release Party & Upcoming Acoustic Concert

While fans spent Tuesday rioting over Drake’s new album release, that day also saw the album release of another big name in the industry:  Kevin Rudolf.  To The Sky, the producer, songwriter, and rock/hip hop star’s sophomore album on label Cash Money Records, has long been awaited after his chart-topping debut album, In The City.  The album’s first single, I Made It (Cash Money Heroes), featuring Lil Wayne, Birdman, and Jay Sean, has already caused quite a stir.  Other names to look out for on the album are Three 6 Mafia, Flo Rida, and Rivers Cuomo.

But what would a great album be without a kickass release party?  Again, we hearken back to the aftermath of Thank Me Later…  Last night PulseJFK took a little stroll down bowling lane at Lucky Strike, a sultry lounge that doubles as an electro-funky bowling alley.  You know you’re high-bowlin when, not only does an establishment play host to a VIP bowling lounge, but said bowling lounge also has a bouncer camped outside the door.

DJ Equal and DJ Mel DeBarge spun tracks at this exciting affair, which had a loaded guest list but somehow managed to retain an intimate vibe.  Joining Kevin Rudolf were Jay Sean, Atomic Tom, Slim and Baby, Emmi Grullon, and Angela Hunte, (and of course, yours truly) among others.

If you missed the party last night, don’t worry.  Kevin Rudolf is playing an acoustic concert this Saturday night at The Boathouse in the Hamptons.  It should be a wonderful, laid-back event and…it’s free.  It’s simple:  just RSVP to TheBoathouse@BrandswayCreative.com and LIKE PulseJFK on Facebook.  What’s more, you’ll be entered to win a free bottle of champagne, just because we love you oh, so much!

Free Drake Concert Cancelled After Riot Breaks Out…Now Let’s All Drink!

Earlier this evening fans took to the South Street Seaport to view a free performance by rapper Drake.  The show was the first in a summer concert series sponsored by Paper Magazine, and was to be opened with a DJ set by Ninjasonik and a performance by everyone’s favorite boy band of yesteryear, Hanson.   Unfortunately, the fans were too many.  As Pier 17 swelled with upwards of 10,000 people, the scene turned violent:  check out this anonymous video from YouTube.  Trying to get a better view of the stage, the crowds began to push forward aggressively.  The number of rowdy, brown-bagging high schoolers seemed to set the tone for the event early on, but no one could have predicted how belligerent the scene would become.

Onlookers on balconies began throwing flowerpots and chairs onto the crowds below, which responded by picking up whatever they could find and hurling it back.  Fights broke out amidst the crowd, and still others clambered onto stands and token booths to get a better look or to avoid the chaos that was ensuing.  One participant claims to have overheard a man saying he was going to “light this place up”.

The NYPD received an influx of 911 calls, and soon onlookers overheard officers warning that the scene was nearing a riot.  With that, the concert was cancelled, much to the already raucous crowd’s chagrin.  Drake released a statement saying, “I am humbled by the crowd that showed up in support of my performance and the release of Thank Me Later [his debut studio album released today].  I love performing for my fans, but unfortunately, the show was canceled by the NYPD due to overcrowding, leaving me without the chance to give my fans a real show.”

Unfortunately, as all PulseJFK readers well know, even when the chips are down, you gotta rage on.  So even though the event was cancelled, many of our own wandered over for Free Chicken & Beer or the myriad of other post-musical-happenings that Pulse hooked you up with.  So if you need to unwind after all that madness, may we suggest a drank?

Party on.

Heeeeere’s Johnnie! ‘House of Walker Experience’ Private Tasting Event Hits NYC

Thursday evening PulseJFK was invited to attend the House of Walker Experience, a Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky tasting event taking place in cities throughout the nation.  Put a group of golden nectar enthusiasts in a room, add in a troupe of smiling JW ladies, and throw in a delicious assault on your better judgment and following Friday morning,  and you’ll begin to grasp the sort of experience I’m talking about.

After sipping on cocktails made from smooth, rich Johnnie Walker Black and Red Labels, guests wandered into the tasting area to sample the Walker trove.  Master of Whiskey Stephen Wilson – himself a classic blend of standup comedian and motivational speaker – led us through a journey that has been brewing since 1819, when John Walker opened his grocery shop doors to the whisky-craving Scots.  The night began with Walker’s signature deep and complex Black Label, and ran the gamut of Red, Gold, and Green Labels, all the way through the rare and exclusive Blue.  The personal whisky arsenal that lay before each guest also came complete with strawberries, pepper, and an eyedropper, all tools to aid and abet the Walker Experience.

For those who weren’t able to sate their whisky tooth at the tasting, the party raged on around the corner at sexy Moroccan-themed lounge, Sway.  And of course Johnnie had hooked all guests up with complimentary tumblers of Black Label to keep us going strong.

The House of Walker Experience will continue to excite the palettes of whisky veterans and virgins alike, so make sure you’re on the list no matter what your affinity for the booze may be.  The event will be taking place again in NYC tonight and tomorrow, and in Philly June 8-12, so check out their website, or RSVP through Facebook today.

Keep Walking…