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Community Corner

"Made in Bed-Stuy" Options for Last-Minute Shoppers

Don't fret if you haven't finished shopping yet; You don't have to go far to support your local artisans

Bed-Stuy Last-Minute Shoppers: We know it's the 11th hour before Christmas, and many of you still haven't finished your holiday shopping. But don't despair. Here's the perfect way to get a little last-minute shopping done without traveling far, while also supporting some of your home-grown local artisans.

We have compiled a list of "Made-in-Bed-Stuy" gifts and stocking stuffers. So, shop local and pay homage to the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood we call home.

"DO THE RIGHT THING," the book

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Spike Lee has fans turning to the bookshelves instead of the silver screen this holiday season, with the release of his new book "Do the Right Thing."  The book commemorates the 21-year debut of Lee's film "Do The Right Thing" and the film's impact on its generation. Filmed in Bedford-Stuyvesant, the movie was a platform that displayed issues in the African-American community such as social division and race.  The 80's film grew to become a classic to Brooklynites and the film industry alike.

With the release of the book, co-written by Jason Matloff, Lee brings readers behind the scenes, with interviews, visuals and commentary of the film. The book also includes a DVD with unreleased material. Be sure to get this stocking stuffer at a bookstore near you.

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BEDSTU FOOTWEAR

Bed|Stu is a footwear collection inspired by the Brooklyn streets of Bedford Stuyvesant. Bed|Stu is a brand that prides itself on authenticity, richness and resilience, leaving no doubt in why the brand turned to Bed-Stuy as its muse.

The brand combines long-lasting toughness with a fashionable vintage aesthetic. |Stu takes pride in being apart of their shoes creation process, which involves hand-picking the leather and practicing traditional crafting methods. This workmanship gives the brand its exclusivity and helps build Bed|Stu's cult-like fan following. The footwear is for both men and women and ranges in broad styles such as loafers, wingtips and boots. It is a closet staple and transitional piece for the fall/winter season.  Check out Bed|Stu.com to find out more about purchasing this trendsetting stocking stuffer.

THE STUYVESANTS

The Stuyvesants are Bed-Stuy natives Allan Cole (producer) and Darien Victor Bricks (record collector).  Their music is 70's-infused hip-hop melodies. Their latest project with SD records is entitled "Brooklyn's Finest". The duo produce an amazing collaborative effort, combining Brick's passion for classic hip-hop and R&B with Cole's ability to sample classics to create a new sound. "Brooklyn's Finest" will take listeners on a journey through the complex cultural richness of Bed-Stuy. Each track, such as "Greene Ave Anthem" and "Stuyvesant Swing" captures the essence of the neighborhood The Stuyvesants call home.

On this project, the duo also gets a chance to incorporate their other talents of graphic design and beat digging. Skip the traditional Christmas carols this season and download The Stuyvesant's "Brooklyn's Finest" here.

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