Hey Little Mama…

By JackieBelle…

Here are three really cool ideas that I kind of wish I had invented- the next time you take the little ones with you on a trip or outing, keep these things in mind and become the Super-Mom (or Super-Auntie) that you always wanted to be!  Okay, I admit that I’m the first person to cringe when I see headlines like “Three Little Things that will COMPLETELY CHANGE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE,” but these three little things really are cool and could totally make a difference in at least a major part of your life!  Check these out:

THE TEXT HOOK

Does this sound familiar?  You’re pushing a stroller with your right hand while searching for a binky with your left hand, and the phone rings, so you quit looking for the binky to look for the phone (which upsets the binky-seeking baby who now escalates his cry from anxious whimpering to Pavarotti-lung-capacity-shouting) and by the time you get your hands on the phone, it stops ringing just in time for you to not get the call?  Here’s your solution:  Texthook is a smartphone holder that attaches to any handlebar (think stroller etc.) providing a convenient and safe place to store your phone.  The mount rotates so that it can be secured to either a single or double handlebar.  No more digging through your bag for your phone!  I’ll let you numerate all the ways in which this invention could improve your day… in the meantime, go to www.thetexthook.com to get one.

KNEEBOUNCERS

And how about this scenario?  You’re in the car with a four-year-old.  That’s it- enough said.  If you’ve ever been in a car with a four-year-old, you know that the entertainment potential of playing “I Spy” is less than stellar even in the best of circumstances, let alone if the trip is an especially long one or the four-year-old is an especially bored one.  Try this:  Entertain little ones in the airport or in the car with Kneebouncers, an innovative website that lets babies and toddlers play computer games- without a mouse.  Just tap on the keyboard and magic happens on the screen!  The site has 20+ games from letter and number learning to balloon pop and more for hours of endless entertainment and no downloading, software or equipment required.  Hint:  You don’t have to be in the car or airport for Kneebouncers to be fun!  Try it with your little one at:  www.kneebouncers.com

DIAPERBUDS

Okay, these are really cool- kind of like that space-age food they make for astronauts or those little dinosaur sponges that soak in water and expand in size.  DiaperBuds are individually wrapped, vacuum-packed disposable baby diapers for on-the-go.  Because of their patented packaging, they are 70% smaller than regular diapers.  When opened they ‘bloom’ into a full-sized premium diaper.  Just like the dinosaur sponges, but way more useful when applied to a baby’s bum!  Remember the last time you traveled with diapers and the diapers took up the whole suitcase?  It doesn’t have to be that way!  (You can pack more than one shirt on your next vacation…)  Get yours at:  www.DiaperBuds.com.

MAMAMIO

You’ve Heard How Woman Have That Special Glow… They do it with Mamamio.

Hollywood is looking really bumpy lately, and I don’t mean the hills!  In the wake of the recent Hollywood baby-boom, red carpets have been flooded with a plethora of baby bumps!  Pregnant celebs such as Kate Hudson, Victoria Beckham, Natalie Portman, Selma Blair and the newly pregnant Jessica Alba are sure to get plenty of notice for their maternity style.  And how will they perfect their looks?  With none other than celebrity skincare expert Mama Mio, of course!  While all of these products are especially formulated with glowing mothers-to-be in mind, you don’t have to be prego to appreciate them!

Boob Tube Bust and Neck Firmer:  While expecting Honor in 2008, Jessica Alba embraced her pregnant physique and notably stellar style by highlighting her assets on the red carpet.  We know she’ll do the same this time around by using her favorite Mama Mio product: Boob Tube Bust and Neck Firmer ($45; www.mamamio.com).  This crinkle-fighting formula promotes firmer, fitter, glowing, dewy, youthful skin from the neck down, a must when preparing for a revealing neckline on the red carpet.  CoQ10 helps defy gravity while Omega 3, 6 and 9 keep your neck and décolleté looking firm and plump.  Milk Thistle, Evening Primrose Oil and Sweet Almond Oil maintain moisture for healthy, brilliant skin!

O-Mega™ Body Oil:  The amazingly beautiful Selma Blair showed off her maternity glow at the recent Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.  You too can achieve a soft sheen like Selma’s by using her favorite Mama Mio product: O-Mega™ Body Oil ($35; www.mamamio.com)  Free of carriers and emollients, this formula is 100% replenishing moisture.  Truly superfood for the skin, Mama Mio’s magic mix of natural Argan, Safflower, Sweet Almond and Jojoba oils delivers much-needed Omegas 3, 6 and 9 to nourish and elasticize the skin for a noticeable and immediate difference.  Thirsty skin drinks up the quenching blend instantly as it quickly sinks in, locks in moisture and throws away the key!

Lucky Legs:  The always fashionable Victoria Beckham never lets her pregnancies get in the way of style!  Pregnant with her fourth child, the Mama Mio Skincare fan was recently spotted in Heathrow wearing her signature stilettos.  At this year’s Oscars, other pregnant celebs also braved the red carpet in heels with the help of Mama Mio Lucky Legs ($19; www.mamamio.com).  Developed to relieve legs and feet when exhausted, swollen, heavy, and in need of intense refreshment, this mini-spa treatment glides on to instantly cool and ease weary limbs—from knees to tippy toes.  Lucky Legs is formulated with V-Tonic, a blend of safe, essential oils handpicked to relieve pain and lighten heavy legs with a tingly cool sensation.  80% of women tested reported immediate relief!  Menthol and Spearmint cool and refresh as Aloe Vera and Chamomile calm and Yarrow helps skin tone.

Me and My Green Toad…

By Christabelle…

I have never had more appreciation for a job, than that of a professional painter. After days of back breaking work re-painting a NYC apartment…I finally found my savior. A little Green Toad.

Anyone who has used a typical paintbrush or roller knows how painful and strenuous it can be on your hands, wrists and shoulders. For some, like those with limited manual dexterity or other physical challenges, painting with a traditional brush is virtually impossible.

Introducing the Green Toad—the first truly ergonomic pivoting paint brush system that makes it easy and comfortable for anyone to paint quickly and accurately. Designed by Margco International in consultation with physical therapists, the Green Toad system combines an exclusive, patent-pending comfort-grip handle with a 360-degree pivoting brush head that reduces the pain and discomfort associated with traditional paintbrushes.

The 360-degree rotating brush head locks securely in eight different positions enabling the application of paint, stain or varnish from any angle. This not only reduces hand and wrist strain, but also improves accuracy in tight spots and challenging trim work. A quick release button on the ergonomic handle makes switching attachments a snap

In addition to being comfortable and convenient, the Green Toad is also actually, well, green. All plastic parts, including the handle, brush heads, bristles and most internal parts, have been treated with Earthgreen™ polymers, which makes them biodegradable, compostable and recyclable.

The Green Toad is compatible with any type of paint, stain, varnish or sealant on the market and it works on any surface. The handle features a lifetime warranty. Available paint head attachments include 1.5- and 2.5-inch tapered brushes, 2- and 3-inch straight brushes, and 4-, 6- and 9-inch rollers. Roller extension poles, paint pad attachments and innovative, earth-friendly paint trays are currently under development.

For more information, visit www.thegreentoad.net. Don’t paint by yourself, when the Green Toad can be your assistant the from start to finish!

Affordable ‘Singles’ Weekend Vacations…

By Christabelle…

Don’t tell him…but these trips sound so fun, I kind of want to break up with my boyfriend!!!!

Singles Travel International announced today their 2011 affordable  Weekend Sample Tours for single adults who love to travel but don’t want to go alone.  This year’s tours include stops throughout the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean, where solo travelers will explore new places and make new friends along the way.  Single Travel’s tours include private parties, singles-only activities, private tours, and access to Single Travel International’s online community of over 13,000 single travelers.

Tammy Weiler, founder and president of Singles Travel International, said “The weekend tours are the perfect ‘mini vacations’ to try solo travel without a big commitment.  They’re affordable and fun.”

2011 Weekend Sample Tours include:

Musical Nashville Weekend,  May 27 – 30, 2011:

Stay and play in the heart of Nashville, including 3 nights accommodations and meals, tours and live music, Grand Ole Opry, Wildhorse Saloon Line Dance Lessons, BB King’s and more.  Starting at only $759.

4th of July Party Cruise, July 1 – 4, 2011:

3 night/4 day Bahamas Cruise on Majesty of the Seas from Miami with a boatload of new friends for a holiday weekend, includes visit to private island, 3 meals daily, private STI parties, singles-only dinner seating.  Starting at only $479.

Chicago Jazz Festival, September 2-5:

Premier jazz festival weekend includes Gospel Brunch at House of Blues, Welcome Cruise on Lake Michigan, bike tour of Millennium Park, and much more. 3 nights  accommodations.  Starting at only $599.

40th Anniversary Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, October 6 – 9, 2011:

Watch hundreds of balloons lift off in the world’s largest hot air balloon festival in New Mexico’s invigorating  early-morning high-desert air, an evening balloon glow with fireworks, tours of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, special dinners and parties, and more.  Starting at only $1,099.

Girlfriend Cruise4Cause, October 13 – 17, 2011:

Cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers girlfriend getaway aboard the luxurious Celebrity Millennium, departs Miami with stops in Cozumel and Key West for a weekend of pampering, playing and support.  4 nights.  Starting at only $529.

Halloween “Hangover” in Las Vegas, October 27 – 30, 2011:

A screaming Halloween weekend package packed with themed nights and fun with 100+ singles in Las Vegas.  3 nights accommodations at Caesars Palace, Rat Pack Night Party, Oktober FrightFest on Fremont Street, and more.  Starting at only $579.

About Singles Travel International

With over 30 years experience in travel consulting, Singles Travel International (STI) is an industry leader in providing worry-free travel for single travelers. STI offers age-specific excursions, short and long trips to close-by destinations and distant and exotic locations for all budgets — from frugal to luxury. Trips include themes (food & wine, jazz, volunteer, dancing) as well as adventure travel. Hallmarks of STI trips are personalized service, special singles events, and flexibility. Singles Travel International also offers an exclusive free online community of 13,000 single travelers. www.singlestravelintl.com

COCKTAIL OF THE WEEK: Mai Kind of Tai with Leblon

By Christabelle…

The first day of Spring just passed us, our days are warmer and longer, our thirst is, well…thirstier. Time to get prepared for sunset drinks and rooftop cocktails and what better to start off the sunny weather season with a bang? Leblon Caipirinha…but of course!

The Caipirinha is the national cocktail from Brazil. Made from fresh lime, muddled with natural sugar, and mixed with Cachaça and ice, the Caipirinha is a cultural classic. The classic Caipirinha is made with fresh lime. Or, make a Fresh Fruit Caipirinha with your favorite in-season fresh fruit, such as pineapple, raspberries, watermelon, or tangerines. Add herbs such as mint, cilantro, or basil for a unique twist. Or a dash of red pepper…

Caipirinha of the Month

Mai Kind of Tai

• 8 oz Leblon
• 4 oz pineapple juice
• 4 oz orange juice
• 2 oz Triple Sec
• splash of grenadine
• 10 chunks of fresh pineapple

Muddle fresh pineapple in a carafe. Add ice, Leblon, triple sec, pineapple juice, orange juice and splash of grenadine. Stir very well, pour into a Leblon Carafe and serve on the rocks. Garnish with some fresh pineapples inside
Simply delicious and refreshing! Perfect for a long day at the Rooftop pool.

(21+ – please drink responsibly).

Well Put, Kenneth…

By Christabelle…

Kenneth Cole’s witty word plays have amused me for years – billboards that have time and time again caused me to almost crash my car on the West Side Highway.  And now, in the wake of the recent earthquake and  tsunami in the Pacific East,  kudos to Kenneth for his most recent word play that is inspirational, heartwarming and philanthropic.

THE SUN ALWAYS RISES IN THE EAST. – KENNETH COLE

Join Kenneth Cole and *AWEARNESS The Kenneth Cole Foundation (and your friends at Christabelle’s Closet who are clicking purchase as we speak) in showing your support for the people of Japan. Purchase your t-shirt for $35 (100% of net profits will be donated to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami relief efforts) by clicking the image above or CLICKING HERE.

*AWEARNESS The Kenneth Cole Foundation is a not-for-profit entity that raises awareness, increases prevention, supports education and eradicates stigma in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Every season, we partner with a progressive, not-for-profit HIV/AIDS organization to create products and host events to support their important mission. Plus, we highlight the inspiring stories of social activists, known as “Change Agents,” who work with each organization to help educate and encourage others to get involved.

Get Your Hands on Some Good Reads

By JackieBelle…

You know why I don’t mind waiting in waiting rooms?  It’s a great excuse to sit and read without feeling like I should be doing something else.  I once chose a dentist not based on his gentle manner and reasonable pricing but because he had the best reading selection I’ve ever seen on a waiting room table.  (I’d like to tell you I’m making this up for the sake of humor, but I’m not.  If you want his name and number, I’d be happy to provide it- I think he’s still taking new patients.)  The next time you find yourself in need of a good read, give one of these a try:

Consider it Done: SRP $15.00
You know those people who know all the tips and tricks to solve of all of life’s little (and big) conundrums?  Julie Subotky is one of them- her book, Consider it Done, will let you in all the cool things you never even knew you needed to know!  Home sweet home might be a nice idea, but managing a household often feels like a full-time job with a seemingly endless array of tasks.  This is something Julie Subotky knows well.  As the founder of Consider It Done, she has made a career out of servicing requests—from the outrageous and seemingly impossible, to the mundane, yet necessary—for her clients, which include Fortune 500 CEOs, celebrities, socialites, and everyday busy people.  Whether the challenge is to locate a matching spoon for your grandmother’s silver set or disassemble and reinstall an antique chandelier, when Subotky is on task, her clients know they can Consider it Done!

Subotky was recently featured on WOWOWOW.COM for How to Tackle the Trickiest of Tasks and was also just featured as an expert on THE NATE BERKUS SHOW.  She is also happy to help you accomplish your own to-do list!

In her book, CONSIDER IT DONE! Accomplish 228 of Life’s Trickiest Tasks (Broadway Books, On Sale: February 1, 2011), Subotky shares down-to-earth tips for the wildest of tasks, as well as whimsical strategies for achieving (or in some cases avoiding) life’s more tedious responsibilities.  (Yes!  I love avoiding tedious responsibilities!)  She includes a special section with advice for the ordinary and sometimes odd duties needed to maintain a home, such as:

How to organize your closet in twenty minutes.

How to be sure you have the necessities in your kitchen.

How to make your move smooth and easy.

How to move a twenty-gallon fish tank.

How to get rid of a mildew smell.

How to turn a closet into a baby’s room.

How to set up a darkroom in your house.

How to keep a plant alive.

How to “green” your home… and get your kids involved.

Clutter Rehab: SRP $12.95
While we’re on the topic of organizing our lives and all of our stuff, here’s another book that is worth checking out- Clutter Rehab.  Would you like to know how to streamline closets by donating rarely worn clothes?  Clear those paper piles on the desk with an e-filing system?  Eliminate grocery shopping stress by designing a menu plan for the week ahead?  With simple projects like these, Clutter Rehab shows how to make even the most chaotic home a well-organized, relaxed environment.

Author Laura Wittmann gets many e-mails each day from stressed out, overwhelmed women looking for help to balance and declutter their lives.  Wittmann says, “Writing this book provides me the opportunity to not only help these women but to reach out to many others as well who might be in a similar situation.”

She can relate to these overwhelmed women because she herself was one of them not long ago: “I was working full time with two young kids and really not knowing how to slow down on the erratic train of life.”  She was finally able to do just that when she became pregnant and was laid off from her job at the same time.  “It gave me the time I needed to slow down, and it was only then that I realized I was far more stressed than I ever knew,” she says.  “I began by making small changes in my life over a number of years, and I’m so thrilled with the journey and what it’s taught me that I can’t wait to share it with others.”

Featuring quick solutions that have been tested and approved by the loyal readers of the author’s popular blog, Clutter Rehab offers a plan to tackle clutter and tidy every room.  And the author’s light-hearted approach makes organizing fun and addictive.  Readers will learn useful skills that help transform the kitchen into a chef’s dream workspace and turn a cluttered bathroom into a relaxing oasis.  (I’ve always wanted a relaxing oasis!)

There are also fun projects and hints for how to get kids involved as well in keeping the home neat!  Readers will learn how to stay on top of everyday chores to make the home run smoothly and restore order quickly when life gets hectic.  (And it usually does…)

Can You Get Hooked on Lip Balm?: SRP $16.95
Years ago my aunt told me that if I kept using lip balm I would get hooked- was she right?  I can’t wait to find out- although, judging by how many tubes and sticks of lip balm I’ve gone through in my life I think I kind of already know the answer!  The people at THEBEAUTYBRAINS.COM are pulling back the curtain and revealing the fascinating science behind the cosmetics we use every day, separating fact from marketing hype and arming readers with the knowledge they need to become smarter shoppers.  They have gathered their best questions and answers about the most popular beauty topics that impact all of us, including hair care, skin care, makeup and even cosmetic surgery.  In addition to learning how cosmetic products work, what advertising claims actually mean and which ingredients really matter, CAN YOU GET HOOKED ON LIP BALM?: Top Cosmetic Scientists Answer Your Questions about the Lotions, Potions and Other Beauty Products You Use Every Day, offers at-a-glance resources such as:

Five ways beauty products can go bad (yes, they do expire- you might want to glace at the expiration date on that tube of goop that expired back when Kurt Cobain was making flannel all the rage.)

Five home beauty gadgets that really do work (You can treat yourself safely and effectively at home!)

The top 10 ingredients that irritate the skin (Having an unusual reaction?  Check for these ingredients on your beauty and skincare products!)

Four types of wrinkles and how to remedy them (Know the wrinkle, know the cure!)

About The Beauty Brains:  The Beauty Brains are a group of chemists who have more than 40 combined years of experience developing and testing beauty products at major cosmetic companies including Proctor & Gamble, Unilever and Alberto Culver.  Perry Romanowski, the public face of the Brains, has spent the past 18 years researching and developing products to solve consumer problems in hair and skin care.  He is also the coauthor of Beginning Cosmetic Chemistry, an introductory textbook of beauty science.  The Beauty Brains blog was recently selected as one of the top three beauty blogs to watch in 2010 by top PR firm Pierce Mattie.

For more information, please visit: THEBEAUTYBRAINS.COM

Fart Without Fear Cookbook: SRP $16.95
Think back to the last party you attended- you ate the snacks, you drank the beer, you ate more snacks, and then what?  (Hint:  Super Bowl Sunday is the second largest food consumption day of the year.  After millions of well-fed Americans eat millions of pigs-in-the-blankets and sausage sandwiches and veggie trays and cheesy dips with spicy sides- what is the only possible outcome for the evening?  Do I have to spell it out?)  Parties might be excuses to eat guilt-free without counting calories, but with that great freedom comes the price we pay for consuming all those fart-inducing recipes.  (Yes, I said “fart-inducing.”)  I’ve never before come across an entire book devoted solely to gastrointestinal peace and calm- until now!  The Fart Without Fear Cookbook has the cure for what ails us and the recipe suggestions to prove it!

This is not just a book for Super Bowl Sunday or Major United States Holidays, but for any day and for those who love to cook.  The Fart Without Fear Cookbook by chefs Wayne Chen and Gary Goss is a tongue-in-cheek cookbook that offers party, holiday, and everyday recipes and tips on how to avoid those embarrassing moments when the food settles and decides to “vent.”  It contains sample recipes, and outrageously entertaining yet fact-based fartoids, which teach you how to:

–Know which ingredients will produce the bad aftermaths.

–Learn how to rate, prepare and change the good or bad level of any comfort food, recipe or other favorite cuisine of choice.

–Amuse and dazzle family, friends and guests with new nutrition and scientific insights.

–Laugh out loud and often.

–Fart without fear or guilt.

–Never look at food the same way ever again.

A Cool Factor in Midtown NYC…Andaz 5th Avenue Bar

By Christabelle…

When I think of 5th Avenue in midtown, I think of shopping, the diamond district, Rockefeller Center and tourists. I don’t think – killer location to hang out and have drinks and dinner. Let me stand corrected. For I stumbled across a cellar bar that not only has the “cool” factor of a downtown lounge with amazing cuisine, but an attentive staff and a crowd that is more than pleasing to the eye.

The Bar at Andaz 5th Avenue

Upon entering the Andaz 5th Avenue Hotel, I felt a tiny bit like I was on a secret mission. The doors looked as though they were quite supposed to open and the long staircase down to “the bar” didn’t openly cry out HERE I AM. I like that.  I thought for a moment I was going to need a secret knock, password and handshake to enter the premises.  Not the case and for as posh as it looks, “the bar” is actually has classy, laid back ambiance.

The Andaz 5th Avenue bar serves small-batch liquors and a carefully curated selection of wines by the glass. Bar staff is comprised of individuals with a natural ability to play the bon vivant host as well as appreciate the shape of a single rough-hewn, hand cut ice cube in traditional whisky service. Two oversized, 14-foot Claro Walnut wood slabs serve as the stations helmed by the expert bartenders serving beer, wine, and delicious handcrafted cocktails.

An open kitchen serves small sharing plates and allows guests to be part of the action as they engage and socialize with the bar’s chefs. Featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms such as Bo-Bo’s Farms Organic Chicken, Meili Farms, Niman Ranch and Steve Connelly’s Dayboat; the bar gives guests a unique culinary experience. Signature dishes created by Executive Chef Roberto Alicea include Stuffed Peppers with Chicken, Olive Oil and Cilantro; Shrimp a la Plancha with Garlic, Lemon Peel, Peppers and Herbs; and Roasted Pork Shoulder with Black Kale, Raisins and Orange Peel.  An assortment of locally sourced cheeses and homemade ice creams are also available.

Convivial, social spaces for cocktails and conversations come in many forms at the Andaz cellar bar. Guests can choose to gather on the warm, comfortable, pin-tucked, amber couch near the candle-lit mock fire.  Alternatively, two 120-year old gigantic cuts of Claro wood act as a sturdy bar where cocktail connoisseurs can be close to the culinary and cocktail action. In addition to the genial space located near the bar and kitchen, guests can find plenty of nooks for quiet conversation in banquette seating that lines the bar.  The most unique space to enjoy the bar’s cocktails and cuisine is at one of the six centrally located communal dark wood tables.  An evening that starts with just two can turn into a memorable night with many new friends.

A “no reservations” policy underscores the unfussy philosophy, allowing a quick handcrafted cocktail to turn into a full tête-à-tête over a shared late-night dinner.  To provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and enjoyable for all who visit the bar, hosts will accommodate only the number of seats available at the time. I cannot recommend the ANDAZ CELLAR BAR ENOUGH!

A PLUS: The empanadas ROCK (but gives  you garlic breath for days and WELL WORTH IT, might add).

A MINUS: Your drinks (water and wine) come in what I can only describe as a shot glass. One swig of a beverage and your drink is gone. Staff, however, is excellent at re-filling (if you don’t beat them to it).

The bar in the cellar is open daily from 5 pm until late.  For more information, check out www.andaz5thavenue.com or call 212.601.1234.

World’s Largest Bake Sale @ NYC’s Grand Central Station

By Christabelle…

SANDRA LEE, EMERIL LAGASSE AND ROSANNA SCOTTO HOST THE WORLD’S LARGEST BAKE SALE AT GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL TO BENEFIT FOOD BANK FOR
NEW YORK CITY

Celebrity appearances by  Emeril Lagasse, Sandra Lee, Rosanna Scotto and Duff Goldman

On March 29, 2011 Editor in Chief of Semi-Homemade Magazine, New York Times bestselling author, and celebrated Food Network personality Sandra Lee will host The World’s Largest Bake Sale in historic Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal in New York. This fundraising event, sponsored by Pyrex, will benefit The Food Bank of New York and will feature sweet and savory baked goods from 30 of New York’s most well-respected chefs and restaurants, including six from Grand Central Terminal. This event will be the impetus for ancillary events happening simultaneously that day in every state in the country to raise funds for local area food banks throughout the United States.

Sandra, who is passionately committed to providing support to America’s food banks, organized this event in collaboration with her friends and fellow food industry icons Mario Batali, Lidia Bastianich, Emeril Lagasse and Rosanna Scotto. Emeril and Rosanna will be in attendance at the New York event on March 29, as will Sandra’s fellow Food Network star, Duff Goldman from “Ace of Cakes”.

The list of Bake Sale participants reads like a who’s-who of the best chefs, restaurants and food shops in New York City. Participants include six Grand Central Terminal tenants – Ciao Bella Gelato, Junior’s Restaurant, Magnolia, Manhattan Chili Company, Murray’s and Zaro’s – as well as a selection of some of the city’s most popular fine dining establishments and bake shops, including Del Posto and Fresco by Scotto.

WHO: Sandra Lee, Emeril Lagasse, Rosanna Scotto, Duff Goldman and chefs from 30 participating restaurants and food shops

WHAT: The World’s Largest Bake Sale to Benefit Food Bank for New York City

WHEN: March 29, 11:30 am-7:00 pm

*Photo opportunity with Sandra Lee and Emeril Lagasse presenting a check to Food Bank for New York City at 11:30 AM*

WHERE: Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal

For a complete list of World’s Largest Bake Sale participants visit www.grandcentralterminal.com or the Grand Central Terminal page on Facebook.

ABOUT SANDRA LEE:

An internationally-acclaimed home and food expert, Sandra Lee has revolutionized the term “homemade” as a popular Food Network host, editor-in-chief of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine, and a New York Times best-selling author. Sandra’s trademark 70/30 Semi-Homemade philosophy translated to television with Food Network’s Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee and to the Internet with SemiHomemade.com. Sandra attended University of Wisconsin – La Crosse as well as Le Cordon Bleu; launched several lines of home, garden, and craft products including Kurtain Kraft; worked with QVC; and produced a successful DIY home improvement series. With a commitment to service and charity, Sandra works with numerous philanthropic organizations including Feeding America®, Share Our Strength® and UNICEF®. Since 2002, Sandra has released 22 cookbooks as well as a memoir “Made From Scratch.” She also hosts Sandra’s Money Saving Meals on Food Network. For more information, visit www.SandraLee.com.