The Urbane Urbanite

The rooftop of Manhattan Motorcars was the place to be in New York City on Tuesday night as celebs, tastemakers and a select group of elite media sipped on NUVO Lemon Sorbet, toked on cigars and noshed on appetizers and cupcakes at the unveiling of the new Lamborghini LP700-4 Aventador. Source Image Source Image  Photo: S. James For a mere $400,000, this speed machine, which features a 700hp V12 engine and comes in an array of colors, including the nero nemesis matte finish (pictured above), can be yours. Too rich for your blood? Mine too. While everyone was ogling over the main attraction, me and my homegirl, The Fab Chick , decided to slum it with the cheap Lamborghinis. You know, the ones that  cost only $205,000. Last night's unveiling was only the beginning of the Aventador's media circuit. It will make its cinematic debut in next summer's surefire hit Batman: The Dark Knight Rises - and will certainly steal the show.

With Oprah on her way out, it's only right that I step in and start my very own favorite things list. It's the same set up: I list my favorite clothing, food, games, books and snacks that I couldn't do without this summer. The only difference is that my list isn't as nice as Oprah's. Or expensive. Or exclusive. And I ain't giving away any of this stuff for free.  But aside from all that, it's just Oprah's. Yes, summer is almost over but I assure you that everything on this list can be used all year long. Enjoy!

Last week, I got pulled over in Essex County, New Jersey for talking on my cell phone while driving. Although the phone wasn't to my ear, I understand that hands-free means hands-free. Period. So, technically, I'm guilty. Fine. But to add insult to injury, I was given a summons for carless driving and moments later, caught a cop driving while talking on her cell phone. Should I have really gotten a ticket for careless driving? Why is it unacceptable and considered careless if we drive and talk on our phones without a hands-free device but okay for cops to do it? Shouldn't they practice the laws they enforce? I spoke with a twenty-year veteran of a police department in the same county my offense took place. (He asked to remain anonymous). We'll call him Detective Williams. Williams hasn't worked the streets in over ten years (he currently works in the Internal Affairs Department). He tells me what I should do the next time I get pulled over, gives me the sc...

I've been driving for 13 years and aside from the occassional parking ticket, I've managed to maintain a clean driving record. No points on my license. No increased car insurance premiums. No car accidents. Nothing. But today, that all changed.

Last week, to kick-off the 2010 New York International Auto Show, Nissan held a wine reception to promote the North American debut of the 2011 Juke. I had the pleasure of attending the cocktail party, which took place at the world famous Morrell Wine Bar and Café in Rockefeller Center.