I am planning on making a trip to the greatest city in the world this summer and am in need of some tips....

first of all,
what are some of the independent providers that you would say are reliable and give a great BBBJ ?

second,
as this is a first trip to NYC,
Are there any things to do or places to go that are can't miss that might not be in the travel guide ?

third,
what are the best strip clubs to go to ?

fourth,
any general tips for a traveler coming to the big apple for the first time ?

My favorite strip club is a "local watering hole" in Brooklyn, i.e., Wild Wild West (see http://stripclublist.com/c.asp?c=8583 ).  Caveat emptor: I haven't been in over a year, but when I did go to strip clubs, I preferred that one.  Manhattan clubs seem to be overpriced to me.

-Hoot.

too much trouble and may not be safe.
Also, use mass transit instead of cabs!
If you can afford it have lunch or dinner in one of the better restaurants (use ZAGAT to determine your likes).
I can't recommend any independents but I can recommend two services: NY Jewels and Belle Du Jour. Both are listed on this board and have good web sites for info.