Personally, I think the "stealth bike" thing is kind of BS. When someone has wrapped their bike in tape or covered their saddle with a plastic bag, I think most thieves know what that means: Steal this one, it's expensive!

I recommend larger tires that 23mm in NYC for most purposes, especially commuting. I usually go for 28's or 32's. You can run them at a somewhat lower pressure which results in fewer flats and a more comfortable ride. I ride Panaracer Pasela Tourguards on my daily rider. They're inexpensive if you buy them online from Niagara or Outside outfitters. Did you sandpaper your tube before applying the glue?

If Brooklyn Bike & Board is your LBS, we probably live near each other. I'm on Clinton right near Fulton. Some of the guys who used to work there have a new shop on Myrtle now, called Red Lantern. I like it a lot.