Chayban's Men's Suits & Custom Tailoring- Downtown Buffalo!

Chayban's Men's Suits & Custom Tailoring-Downtown

By Giovanni Centurione

(as seen on www.BuffaloRising.com 12/16/09)

A longtime business owner with over 37 years of experience expanded to the Ellicott Square Building this past September. Chayban Chayban of Chayban's Custom Tailoring has been tailoring since the age of 11 in Tripoli, Lebanon. Mr. Chayban moved to the U.S. in 1973 to Buffalo with only $50 in his pocket. Within two weeks, he got his first job on Elmwood Avenue as a tailor.

In 1978, he and his wife opened their first Chayban's Custom Tailor Shop on Elmwood. Since then, great sales has spread through word of mouth, and the stores have also spread all over Western New York, with locations at the Galleria Mall, McKinley Mall, Transit Road in Lancaster & Williamsville, Elmwood, and now the Ellicott Square Building in the heart of Downtown Buffalo.

What makes the Ellicott Square location so unique? You can get a brand new suit by names such as Burberry, Prada, Louis Vuitton and more. There are vintage suits, vests and leather jackets in mint condition, designer hats, raincoats, dress shoes, all for half the price of what you would pay anywhere else. Also, if you want a one-of-a-kind suit made from scratch, just choose from any of the many fabrics in the store, get sized up and you have your own suit - made just for you.

From leather repair, alterations, dry cleaning, weaving, and custom made clothing, doesn't matter where you purchased it, just bring it to Chayban's and have it fixed. Find a one-of-a-kind outfit in the Chayban store and it just doesn't fit exactly right? You can have it fitted on the spot.

The downtown Chayban's is owned by both Mr. Chayban and his son, Joe. Both guys have a great eye for fashion and are very helpful in finding just the right look to fit your personality. I believe this is the only store currently located downtown where you can find a suit and big named designers under one roof. It's definitely worth the trip. And ladies, you can come in too if you need alterations, leather repair, weaving, dry cleaning, and you can get a gift certificate for that special man in your life.

Because Chayban's location of the Ellicott Square building faces Main Street, you can park for free right in front of the store. This is the ONLY block along the Pedestrian Mall that allows auto traffic, so take advantage of it. Also, if you spend a thousand dollars or more, you will automatically receive a free gift certificate for $100.

Chayban's Men's Suits & Custom Tailoring

Ellicott Square Building - Suite 123A
295 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14203
716.854.2055
Mon Fri 10AM-5PM

http://www.chaybans.com/

(Models Top pic left-right: John, Jeremy & Zachary of Buffalo, NY)

Holiday Discounts at Weisberg's Jewelers

Holiday Discounts at Weisberg's Jewelers

By Giovanni Centurione

(as seen on www.BuffaloRising.com 12/14/09)

Looking for a gift that will last a lifetime?
Weisberg's Jewelers, one of downtown Buffalo's oldest jewelry stores is offering big discounts right now through the holiday season. All gold pieces are now 50 percent off, and diamond rings are anywhere from 20-30 percent off. This is only from now till December 24th.

Upon entering the store, it's hard to decide just where to begin. There are large display cases and wall displays full of men's and women's watches, earrings, rings, necklace's, bracelets, pins, and more. And after you make your choice, the staff can do personal engravings and customize your items if needed.


A neat little background on Weisberg's is that it has been in Downtown Buffalo since 1914. They have always had a presence on Main Street, and were one of the original retailers in the Main Place Mall until 2001, when they moved to the current Court Street location. Owner, Ed Wicks has been with the business since 1963, and he can tell you anything you'd like to know about --from diamonds, to gold, to Downtown.

Weisberg Jewelers
11 Court Street
Buffalo, NY 14202
716.854.0086
Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

The Gift Loft at the Main Place Mall

The Gift Loft at the Main Place Mall

By

Giovanni Centurione

If you're a last minute holiday shopper like, me, then you must check out The Gift Loft, located in the Main Place Mall. The loft has a wide variety of items, from Buffalo related gifts to unique home and office pieces.
Owner, Edwin Jablonski (that's his design, above) opened this new retail location in late August after eyeing Downtown for some time. The store is located on the ground floor fronting Main Street with an entrance on Main Street, as well as from inside the Mall. There is a great window display along Main Street that changes often, and the store is huge!
The Gift Loft is THE place to find original T-shirts and hats, designed and printed by Edwin and his family, for only $10 each. Among the variety of design choices, there are shirts that pay homage to The Aud, the Buffalo Logo, Buffalo Bills, the Polish, the Irish and more. Also, if you're looking for a poster of the city, a book, calendar, or postcard, this place has them all.
Know that this store doesn't carry only Buffalo related items. The Gift Loft also has a wide selection of amusing coffee mugs, beer mugs, jewelry, scarves, ties, winter hats, picture frames, wine glasses - and new items come in every other week.
It's a great place to shop for a family member, friend, co-worker, or yourself this holiday and beyond.

The Gift Loft - Main Place Mall - 400 Main Street - Buffalo, NY 14202
716.854.GIFT (4438)
Open Mon - Sat. 9AM-5:30PM
(Free Parking under Main Place Mall on Saturdays)

Lu Modern Classics: Downtown Shopping

Lu Modern Classics: Downtown Shopping in Buffalo!

(as featured on www.BuffaloRising.com)

In case you didn't know, Lu Modern Classics moved from the Elmwood Village to the Ellicott Square lobby as of November 19th. They have the same great, quality made clothing from designers like Red Engine, Makers Jeans, Manni O., Nantucket Brand, Conrad C., and more. They also have a large collection of jeans, shirts, coats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, hand bags, socks and other unique items, along with Buffalo-themed literature.
This store's jewelry selection is extra special and made by local artists, such as DNA designs by Donna Angelo and pieces by Jeannie Foster. And there are always new items coming in, so be sure to check back often.

LU Modern Classics was voted "Best of Western New York Clothing Boutique" by Buffalo Spree Magazine recently. When stepping into their store, you'll see why. Friendly service, a personal shopper upon request, and if you are not able to make it during normal business hours, you can call ahead and someone will be available for you shop before or after regular store hours.
This unique retailer also has an artist gallery with current prints, T-shirts, mugs and computer mouse pads by local artist, Cheryl Gorski, and T-shirts by local artist 'Gaunch'. The current displays by Cheryl Gorski will only last through the holidays and with each purchase of her items, the money goes towards the children of Gateway-Longview, orphaned and abandoned children of WNY. So be sure to check these great items out while they last.
Also, for the month of December only, Lu's Ellicott Square location will be open on Saturdays from 11AM to 3PM, and if you know someone who would just love this store, but you're not sure what to get them, gift cards are available at any price (of course, gift cards can be purchased beyond the holiday season and used at anytime).

In closing, if you're looking for that mix of urban hipster-to-office attire, then this is the place to go. Also, remember that you can shop Lu Modern Classics through their website as well as at their other locations in Orchard Park and the Wilson Boat Harbor.

Lu Modern Classics:

Ellicott Square Building lobby
295 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14203
716.881.7283
Mon - Fri 10AM to 5:30PM
Sat 11AM to 3PM
(or by appointment)

Images: models featured are Zachary, Hannah, & Jeremy, all from Buffalo

My First of many Artist Write Ups: Nathaniel

Here is my first of many Artist Write Ups. This is for another great blog site, "The Future", check it out: http://thefutureforward.blogspot.com/

An Artist on the Rise: Nathaniel

By Giovanni Centurione
At only 19 years of age, standing 5'6 in height, a humble, singer, songwriter, and producer, known simply as "Nathaniel" or aka: Nate Fly is getting the attention of many. And if you ever get the chance to hear his music or meet him in person, you see why... Nathaniel started singing in local churches and talent competitions with the encouragement of his mother. At one time, Nathaniel was singing with two of this brothers and called their group, "No Identity" The group were signing songs by the likes of Boyz II Men and The Drifters, and even performing at the world famous Apollo Theater.
The three brothers eventually branched out and Nathaniel went solo with a goal of putting his hometown of Brooklyn, NY back on the map. Staying true in the R&B genre, his style is both club banger as well as influential. Nate has given his talent away at movements such as the Annual Week of People hosted by HUB Ent. Newarks campaign to Stop the Violence; Another Peace Night/No Time for Crime in Boston, Ma sponsored by Chez Vous' community activist, Greer Toney and hosted by 106.1 Touch FM; "Cover Up" an event by Silent Voices to increase HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention in which Nathaniel performed the memorable Get Tested; Covenant House's first Annual "Youth Explosion" raising awareness of the services offered by Covenant House to troubled youth and families.
So far, 2009 has been a busy year for Nathaniel with lots more planned for the near future. From winning the 'Battle of the Boroughs' on June 28Th at the Times Square Arts Center to opening the Brooklyn Community Pride Concert for Papoose on July 25Th in Tompkins Park. Performing at Best Buy in Chelsea to Amachi Lounge in Brooklyn and many more. It's almost daily he and his dancers are out performing and/or rehearsing.
On August 6th, Nathaniel introduced the world to his first ever music video, "Let Me In". Filmed in Boston, Ma at the Chez Vous Ice Rink. People from Boston, Philly, Baltimore and beyond came to his premier at Bamboo 52 in Midtown Manhattan to support and meet this rising star in person. With the increased exposure, his fan base is definitely growing.
What's next for Nathaniel? Well, he and his team, "Fly Nate Team" are booking shows here in NYC and beyond. In the meantime, the next show is August 17Th. for The 1st Annual Marcus Mosiah Garvey Festival in Harlem; A performance at the Times Square Arts Center on August 28Th for the Annual Jambalaya event; September 12Th. at Indiana State College's' Annual Dream Chasa Event.A second music video is in the works, so stay tuned and so many more exciting shows and other projects soon to come. To follow Nathaniel, you can check out:
www.myspace.com/flynate
www.youtube.com/toflynate
Facebook under: Nathaniel

The Socialite Report

This is just a short blog notice reminding you all to check out my new work at another Blog Site for Fashion, Nightlife, and NY History @

TheSocialiteReport.blogspot.com

My Premier on the Tyra Banks Show

Okay, It was actually my second time on the set of the Tyra Show. The first time, I was asked to a runway challenge with guest, Isis King from America's Next Top Model, but the women who was working with me on the set never came to get me or give me my Q to get up and ask to do this. Sometimes these things happen, the show took a different turn and I wasn't needed. Mind you this was back in early-mid November of 2008.

Fast forward to early March of this year and I get a call from the show again, this time from a guy instead of a girl asking me if I would be interested in taking part of the show, based along the lines of the ABC Hit Show, "What Would You Do?". So of course I was like "Yes, Definitely". So he gave me some scenario's to choose from and of course the one's that I wanted to answer were already taken, not sure why he would give a choice for those but anyway. So I was left with the option of saying 'No' to not saying something if a guy slips something into someones drink while they weren't looking or saying 'No' to not saying anything to a waiter dropping food on the floor and then serving it. ...So, if you've seen the show, I think you know which one I picked. If not, here is the link to part one of the show in which I'm up around 3:20 minutes in and then again at approx. 9:40 minutes. Tyra comes back to me for more, lol

Click here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9cOfQAzM98

I wonder if I'll be known as the 'Hot Dog Guy' or banned from ever working in a restaurant now because of this? lol

The over all experience was wonderful both times. My first time, I came in as a guest, waited with a friend of mine, Willie to get to the actual audience part with our special VIP Passes. My second time was a little different. I came to the check in area with the guests as told, only to be re-directed to the studio's main lobby after giving my name to the guest list checker. I go to the lobby section (very exclusive, very friendly). I go in, check in and they made me sit on this very large curved sofa in the waiting area. Then slowly, other people started coming in, checking their names, going through the mini metal detector, giving up cell phones and cameras, just like I did and then sat with me on the sofa.

I met some interested people, and learned how differently we all got called in to do this. One girl was called in after emailing the show for a topic suggestion, which was totally opposite of what she had in mind. Another girl knew a producer for the show, and others were called in from other acting sites, such as myself. (That site is a secret, shhh).

Once, we are prepped on what we are to say and when, we go up to the audience and are told not to tell ANYONE in the audience what the show is going to be about or what we are up to, just act like a regular guest. But it must of made some people curious when we all came in late and had the make-up guy powder each one of our faces , myself included, and having the casting people check in on us during every break saying "you ready?" , "you nervous?", "you excited?". lol.

But before the show even starts, their hype man, I believe his name was Dennis, is very hyper and makes us all dance, shout, and sing to get us all motivated and excited before Tyra comes out and starts the show.

I highly recommend anyone who is a fan to go to her website and request tickets and see her "LIVE" just for the experience.

http://tyrashow.warnerbros.com/

The Latest News

GIO'S WORLD
So, only two shows, what's up? I am currently collecting info for new guests and a new camera guy or gal to work with. If interested, hit me up (g_centurione@yahoo.com) .

Tyra Banks Show
Be sure to watch the Tyra Banks Show, Tuesday, March 17th. to see ME, GIO!! speak with Tyra on my scenero's pretaining to the show's topic, it's hilarious!!!!

"GIO'S WORLD" - Exclusive! Rapper, TOP $ RAZ

Welcome to the Second Episode of "GIO'S WORLD" with an exclusive look at TOP $ RAZ, rap artist from Far Rockaway, Queens. We discuss his first full-length album, "The Narrative" that just came out, the video off his new cd, "KING", and some other questions you have to watch to find out.

Check out our quick interview and don't forget to check TOP $ RAZ 's page out for his latest beats, videos, performance schedual, photos and more at: www.myspace.com/farrockchamp

And because this blog only seems to allow my own videos to be downloaded, I could not include TOP $ RAZ's latest video "KING" however, I am allowed to include the YouTube link right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BipeM58gVMQ from the album, "The Narrative" available now @ www.trashcanmusicproductions.c om Produced by Terrestrial Papo of Traq Runnaz Directed by Philippe Grenade DoP: Jarret Egan

The videos came out kind of blur as we were trying something new and it back fired, so sorry and we will return to clear footage again next week. Till then enjoy!!!

25 Things About Me you may not have known.

1. I was good in school untill I reached Junior High and it went all down hill from there, but I did graduate.
2. I was born under a different first and middle name and legally had it changed to Giovanni D'Angelo in 2004.
3. I can be shy and quiet, but then taken for rude and snobby.
4. I came out of the "closet" at 16 years old to my mother during an agrument at 2 in the morning.
5. At 17 years old, I sneeked out of the house to move to NYC and my parents did'nt find me for 2 months.
6. I was arrested once at age 19 with my cousin and two female friends for vandalism and put in the Holiding Center for 11 days.
7. I was always vocal in my writings and wrote several published comments and short stories for local newspapers since I was about 16 years old. Mostly on issues ranging from school violence, poverty, developments, and politics.
8. I helped write a book "America, My Whore" by Apollo Bruan with my name on the first page and can be found at all book stores.
9. I once got drunk with Shyheim (youngest member of the Wu Tang Clan) back in '05 at a private party.
10. I have five amature photos published in five different photography books.
11. I used to write and photograph for www.BuffaloRising.com and The Downtowner Magazine out of Buffalo, NY for Fashion News.
12. I dabbed into my own fashion line in 2005 with funky hats and t-shirts sold at Apollo Braun Boutique under the label, Gio D. Productions.
13. I have dated a stand up comic, a tennis player, a DJ, a model for Black Inches Magazine, a back up dancer for Janet Jackson, a writer and photographer and will not reveal the names at this time.
14. I am a fan of both red and white wines.
15. I am a fan of classic motown hits, 70's and 80's dance and of course 90's hip hop and new beats (but never liked country, hard rock, or grunge).
16. I hated High School
17. I am quick to react and stay away from people who annoy or who have hurt me.
18. I luv winter fashions but hate the winter cold.
19. I want to write a book on my life story someday.
20. I always wanted to work in a bar but know I couldn't stand serving drunks.
21. I enjoy Live Theater.
22. When it comes to museums, I am more into history museums.
23. I once put opened condums in my English Teachers drawer when she was out in the hallway. 24. I drank two margaritas on my lunch break and went right back to work happier than ever, and I think one girl noticed.
25. I hate writing these Top 25 things, lol.

Old School Mates & Myspace

Okay, I'll have to admit my real age to make a point here. It's been 10 years since I've been in High School and most of those days are a blur as I tried to avoid it while there. So if we went to school together and you find me on myspace, facebook or see me in the street and I have no idea who you are, don't take it personal. My point really is, recently I was on myspace and going into my high school search of people around my age and why do I only recognize maby three or four people only? And the ones I don't remember, remember me? and one who looks familiar actually looks 10 times better now than did ten years ago.
How was I in High School, well, I'll be honest and say I was sort of quiet, but always in detention for skipping classes, mouthing off to teachers if I felt they were in the wrong and once I was suspended after the cops came to the school with their sniffing dogs and found my bong in my locker. Which by the way, I found in my own basement and belonged to my mother from back in her day. Mostly hung out with the stoners and the other bad asses which would explain why I always got into trouble.
With the ten year anniversary nearing, no, I do not plan on attending, didn't like most of you mo fo's then, so why would I want to be in a room with you all again?

Happy Freakin New Year!!!!!

So Happy Freakin New Years Everyone!!!!! ...Let's see, I left Buffalo a day before just so I can go out and party in the city and have my champagne...but.....ended up staying at my apartment with the roomies, Wayne and Terence instead. High Winds, the cold kept me inside and then came the bottles of Vodka, Long Island Ice Tea in a bottle, and several cans of soda's rang in till 3am and I was still in party mode to go out but of course it was too late.
Tonight, I'm making it all up by going to my Thursday nite hang out for $2 Margarita's in Chelsea. For those of you who know the place already and see me out...you better say "Hi" to me there, don't email me the next day or two with "Hey, I just seen you at___" ....cause whats the point? I don't like that, say something to me in person, don't waist time emailing me "hello", I'm not going to bite your head off or catch an attitude in public, it's not my nature. But I will get annoyed with emails of "oh yeah, I was there, I saw you, but__" ...
Anywho, enough with the rants, I need a cup of coffee, black and no sugar.