Junior League of Baltimore: 5 Reasons Why You Should Join

 The Junior League of Baltimore is an organization that has devoted countless volunteer hours into making Baltimore a better place. It’s an organization of determined women who are committed into developing women’s potential, improving communities through volunteerism and who inspire women to be leaders.

Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The Junior League of Baltimore, Inc. reaches out to women of all races, religions, and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to voluntarism.  Besides volunteering, there are also 5 other reasons to join this exemplary organization.

1.)  You can be a part of Baltimore’s rich culture. The Junior League has a rich history in Baltimore from the Flower Mart, Maryland School for the Blind,they helped  Founded the Hampden Family Center, and they began the docent program at the National Aquarium.  Read the rest of the article here.

Examiner:Adult ADD,foods to lessen the symptoms

There’s so much talk about children with ADD and over how to combat this disability but less talk over Adult ADD. Well children do grow up eventually and it’s not always easy to manage those symptoms. Ritalin can only go so far but remember, it’s a metaphetamin too.

Long-term usage of metaphetamines do lead to serious side effects such as strokes and heart attacks.

If you think you have this disability, please see a doctor but also remember that there are other ways to combat it ( instead of solely depending on drugs). Read the rest here.

We Need Graeters in Maryland, Pronto!

Alcoholics, smokers and other addicts tend to suffer from withdrawal effects if they aren’t able to satisfy their inner desires. Withdrawal symptoms stem from shaking, sweating and anxiety. Addiction and withdrawel symptoms don’t  always have to spring from drug usage but it’s also found in not feeding an inherent infatuation for– gourmet ice cream.

Maryland is home to a burgeoning group of gourmet ice cream addicts who are suffering from severe withdrawal symptoms. Each of these Ice cream foodie addicts had a taste of Graeters ( 23 + flavors) and want more of it. Knowing full well that Graeters can be found–in abundant supply, in  Ohio and now 30 other states– this altercation has whet their appetites even further  and ask the inevitable question, why not Maryland?

Several MD- Graeters-addicts, see the merit behind this brand. Many Marylanders wish that grocers would carry this brand since Maryland doesn’t have any yummy gourmet ice cream in the area ( I’m sorry, Ben and Jerry’s and Coldstone, you guys cannot compare); and because of this, many of these addicts have a few things to say:


1.)  ” I am in love with Graeter’s Mocha Chocolate chip. Ever since I went to this  ice cream social, i’ve been craving it ever since. I wish I can access it easier besides traveling down to Northern Kentucky to get it.” -Dennis Tran, Silver Spring

2.) “Graeter’s butter pecan is so yummy.  I love how creamy and tasty it is.”- Celina Gomez, Rockville

3.) “It’s hard to find the right kind of strawberry icecream. I tried breyers, Eddys and Turkey Hill’s soft churned ice cream and it doesn’t do well with me. Graeters strawberry ice cream is smooth, semi-sweet and delicious. It has the right amount of strawberry chunks and I don’t think no other brand could pull it off, as well as they do.”- Jackie Gomez, Rockville

4.) “Whenever I go down to Cincinnati, I always make sure I stop by my local Graeters for their blackraspberry chocolate chip. Recently my girlfriend and I  ate there everyday ( for an entire week) and we both couldn’t stop eating there. Graeters is addictive. It’s a slice of home that I wish could take a permanent residency in my new home, in Maryland.”- Stephen Dupal, Catonsville

5.) ” I’m a new Graeters fan but a fan, nonetheless. My best friend got me into their black raspberry chip ice cream and it was so good, I shared it with my entire family. It’s become a  staple within our dinner rituals, in that after we’re all done eating our main meals, everyone comes together to eat black raspberry chip sundaes. We order Graeters online but wish that we can just drive to a local grocer. This brand has become a part of our family and it’s irreplaceable.”- Chardae Bazemore, Baltimore city

6.) “When I  think of Graeters, I think of an ice cream match. It’s Graeters versus all those other ice cream brands and I can easily see it KO all the others. It’s that freaken good. I wish it was easier to get though.”-Shannon Kramer, Baltimore Co.

7.) “We have Graeter’s back in Louisville KY and it is simply the best ice cream ever. Would love to see it in MD.” Sam Gauss, current Baltimore resident.

8.) “During finals time, my best friend and former roommate would always get a surprise package of 6 pints of Graeter’s in the mail from her family. We then would proceed to have an awesome finals ice cream social! I would love to be able to pick up a pint or two from Wegman’s when she visits from her new place in NYC to share a nostalgic scoop and catch up”- Sarah Elena Supik, Baltimore resident.

9.) “I grew up in a suburb just outside Columbus, Ohio, and the Graeters a few blocks from my parents’ house is a neighborhood institution. When I went off to college at MICA, leaving home for the first time, my parents surprised me (and all my friends and roommates) with the 6-pint box during finals week. It became a tradition, and a special occasion, but I wish grocery stores would carry Graeters so we could celebrate the rest of our special occasions with the best ice cream any of us have ever had!”- Sarah Reber, Former Baltimore resident.

10.) “MMMMMMMM! Graeters is my favorite ice cream of all time!  Every since my old high school buds got me into it, I can’t stop craving it.” -Marian Elbert,  Silver Spring

11.) “Graeters can do no wrong. It’s high quality ice cream at an affordable price. I know that if it was sold in Maryland, I would definitely buy more of it.”- Abhisek Devkota, Silver Spring

12.) “I work long hours at the office and sometimes I need a sweet break. I have a severe sugar tooth for icecream and my favorite is Graeters.” Andrew Beacham, Virginia resident ( but commutes around Maryland).

13.) “This ice cream is absolutely delicious! Why don’t they sell this locally??” Jill Dembek, Savage Maryland.
 14.) “ I have been a huge fan of Graeter’s since visiting Cincinnati with my team in the 90’s. Our whole team would be sure to stop in one of Graeter’s stores and indulge in one of the most indulgent products in the universe” I often ship Graeter’s 6-packs to my favorite clients all over the US. Can’t wait until Graeter’s comes to Maryland. “ -Mike Stankovic, Former Coach and player for the Baltimore Crunch

15.) “ We first were introduced to Graeter’s when we visited the Longaberger museum in Columbus, OH. Patty and my favorite flavor is their signature Black Raspberry chip. We will shop the 1st store to bring this brand in even if it means driving to Maryland!!” Dan Brooks, Lancaster, PA

16.)“ One of the hidden jewels in the food industry… I have represented lots of ice cream brands in my history but none as indulgent as Graeter’s!! Bring it on……” Bill Shewbridge, Baltimore, MD

17.)“Being the director of an ad agency, we get exposed to some great local brands. But there is nothing in this world like Graeter’s. Their recent article in Forbes Magazine said it right—If your product is worth talking about, let it speak for itself?” Donna Sheetz, Lancaster PA

18.) “ As the president of a foodservice company, I know when a brand is going to be a hit. This brand is a winner and we get samples all the time through their mail order. ” Mark Erdin, Kensington.


Women’s History Month:Acknowledging Indian American Women

Women’s history month is a celebration of what American women have contributed to U.S. culture. When most people think of American women and their contributions to women’s history, they may switch between African American or Caucasian role models like Rosa Parks, Hillary Rodham Clinton, or Susan B. Anthony.
 
Though these and several other African American and Caucasian women have contributed a multitude to American culture — they are not the only ones.

The United States is full of successful Asian American, Hispanic and Indian American women who have enhanced the fabric of American culture with bright hues. From politics to entertainment, these women have cracked the glass ceiling.

It’s quite shocking, really, that they haven’t been as widely recognized. This is especially true for Indian American women, who.. Read the rest at Tavis Smiley’s website.

My First Examiner Article: How to Pretend to Friends and Family that you like Family Guy

I recently became a DC Examiner Self-Help writer and I felt that even though “Family Guy” is a popular show, it’s not well liked by every single person.  Which is why I wrote this self-help guide for people who have friends that love the show but want to hide their hatred for the show. Here is an excerpt of my new Examiner article:

“It’s no secret that the acclaimed Fox  hit show “Family Guy” is not only a heavy Emmy winner but has officially become an American classic. It’s on every Sunday in between showings of it’s offpsring hits “The Cleveland Show” and “American Dad”. Inspite of the fact that it’s widely liked, it truly doesn’t appeal to all. 

Why yes, there people out there who don’t appreciate the spontaneous scene changes and obscure pop-culture references that are often made in the show. This situation becomes murkier when anti-fans of the show try to honestly express their detest for the show to die-hard “Family Guy” fans. Drama, yelling and some ocassional  eye  rolling action may take place if anyone utters the words, ” I really hate Family Guy”.

If you are someone who disdains Stewie, Peter, Brian, Quagmire and anyone else that Seth McFarlane has invented but who have way too many friends that love this show then this is the guide for you. Here are tips that could surely help mask your sheer hatred for “Family Guy” or anything else related to that show.

1.) At the first mention of a life moment relating to Family Guy, just smile and nod your pretty head. If anyone has an eclectric group of friends, than they are sure to find a few die-hard “Family Guy” fanatics. If that is the case, you are bound to run into some annoying “Family….. continue reading the rest here.

JBP Holsters:High Quality for a Low Rate

How widespread is this recession? One can say that it’s vast enough for most gun enthusiasts to refrain from spending extra cash on high-quality gun holsters. Most gun holsters these days have spiked in price but fallen in quality. It’s hard for most police departments, U.S. servicemen, and other law enforcement agencies to find sturdy Italian leather holsters at a reasonable price—unless they know Virginia’s best kept secret. Enter JBP Holsters.

It’s no secret that Virginia is a state richly embodied with history, culture, and vineyards. However, it should also be known as the home of JBP Holsters (Holsterama). Since 1999, JBP Holsters has been known as the source of high-quality leather holsters at a low price.>

They offer an extensive line of leather holsters for the general public with a wide variety of concealment and open carry options. JBP also creates a bridge between quality and cost by providing two holster brands that are made of expensive high-end leather yet are set to low-cost nylon holster prices. The Master’s Line (a line popular with police departments in Texas and Tennessee and with undercover or off-duty law enforcers) is a premium Italian leather line and The Sleeping Dog Line is a value-oriented leather line for price-sensitive customers.

JBP Holsters’ burgeoning reputation for providing clients with an excellent shopping experience, a large selection of left-handed holsters, fast shipping, a streamlined return policy, and quick customer service (online or in person) has also cemented them as the go-to place for gun holsters for NRA members, gun dealers, gun shop networks, and specialty catalogs. Besides shipping their holsters across the nation, they have also shipped their products to U.S servicemen overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. What’s unique and ingenious about JBP Holsters is their unique design for the Ambidextrous Belt Slide Holster (with metal clip) which, since 2003, has now been copied by several holster makers across the globe.

Besides selling gun holsters, they also attend local or national gun shows to interact with, sell to, and educate gun enthusiasts about innovative gun holsters. In January, they exhibited at the annual Shooting Industry Trade Show (SHOT SHOW) in Las Vegas, and their exhibit had an excellent turnout. It’s also imperative to note that they are a proud supporter of “The Wounded Warrior Project” in which they annually provide a Memorial Day sale fundraiser.

From now until April 30, 2011, all SherrynDaniel.com readers can get 10% off on any item in the store when using the promo code SB10 during checkout.

sales@holsterama.com with any questions or inquiries about specialty gun holsters.

Graeters Ice Cream:Reasons Why I Think Wegmans Should Have it in Stock..

If my friends know me well enough, they must know that I am very picky about desserts–especially  with ice cream. I tend to find Breyers, Edy’s, and at times, Ben & Jerry’s quite chalky, overly tart, and crude. I’m not ashamed for having refined tastes and prefering gourmet options: at a low cost.

 I rather shell $4.99 for a nice pint of  Graeters Black Raspberry Chip Ice cream than squander it for  some generic brands( like what I mentioned, prior).

I love Maryland and that will never change.  But  it pains me to know that they don’t understand high quality ice cream at a low cost. It’s fact that Maryland does not have good  ice cream, ( though they do have amazing crabs and steaks).

I heard through the grapevine that Wegmans  ( best place to ever get a sandwich) is indecisive  over having Graeters in their stores. Huh?

What is there to think about? There is no other ice cream brand that has perfected the  traditional French Pot process, and no other  that could even  making the world’s finest ice cream– in just two gallons at a time?

It’s lux creamy factor, subtle sweetness and ripe colors can not be replicated by any competitor.

I mean, I had to travel all the way to Ohio (7 hour drive) just so I can eat it every day, for an entire week. I’m sorry, it’s a recession and I can’t afford that much gas ( yikes, $3.56 per gallon) to drive all the way down to Cincinnati to eat  my favorite ice cream.

Maryland’s food and beverage businesses are also suffering from this downtrodden recession but by carrying higher quality items ( Graeters Black Raspberry Chip) at gourmet food places like Wegmans, it’s common sense that they will receive a positive surge of business.

After having one taste of Graeter’s Black Raspberry Chip,  I am sure word-of-mouth will spread fast.  So all of you Graeters fans in MARYLAND, please write or e-mail  your local Wegman’s about this impending decision.

Rashad Corey Productions: Website Launch A Success!

Our favorite renaissance man is back and bolder than ever. With the start of a new year, acclaimed fashion designer Rashad Corey has just launched his website.

His production company, R C Productions,  is officially in production. This ensemble cast of designers, fashionistas and stylists are ready to do high quality: Avant-Garde fashion, Bleaching, Dying, Renewal, Sewing, Couture, and Ready-To-Wear services for all.

This triple threat ( Designer, Stylist and Producer) fashion savant has prior experiences  with runway Styling, Editorial Photo shoots, Music Videos, Commercials—all catered for the the average client.

Given that he’s a humble soul with a breadth of experience, he’s candidly professed that he wants to give his all to his customer base.

So, check his website out today!

Edo Tastic: Strikes a Pose with Flare and Pizazz

                                                      ( Photo taken by Greg Brown: www.GregBrownDesign.com)

Edo Tastic, acclaimed model, poet and artist’ is back.  No, he has not been in hiding but he has been trailing the field with multiple accomplishments, feats and poems.

Most recently, his novel approach to take on the fashion and entertainment industry with cool temerity has spell bounded the Entertainment and Fashion Night Out Company (EFNO), which actively  fosters the relationship between the Fashion and Entertainment industry.

This stepping stone in Edo Tastic’s career will propel him to influence  both industries to be fearless, in spite of the odds stacked against them from society; since Edo Tastic is pure, untainted, rawness that cannot be stopped. Besides getting listed into a new company, Edo Tastic has recently…

1.) Signed unto  the prestigious Click Models, which means he  had to move from New York City to Atlanta Georgia on New Years Day. Edo tastic knows that in order to live life to the fullest, one must take the risk. So he istantly  packed his bags, got on the first scheduled Greyhound and took life by the reigns. He cherished his New Years (was on the Greyhound) since it meant that he’s embarking on something fresh, new and zestful in the coming days.

2.) Was recently selected as Eastvillageboys.com’s BOY OF THE WEEK shot by Jessica Yatrofsky.

3.) Is in full blown colored pages that is waiting to be opened and experienced by you. A fury of emotions, passions and strenghths can be seen in Jessica Yatrofsky’s, ” I Heart Boy”.  Just go on Amazon.com and check it out today.

4.) Can  be seen in  “Everybody knows  This  Is Nowhere” Ryan McGinley’s.

5.) Has a spot in  Love Magazine Issue 2.

6.) Has  work published in YRB Magazine.

7.) Most importantly, is part of the United Nations HOPENHAGEN Campaign. In which, his work will help expand the greater good and efforts of the U.N.

Edo Tastic may be a busy and accomplished young model, but he does find time for deep introspection. In his downtime, he’s working on incorporating his original poems and original images shots by BK Photo Guru.  Here’s a tiny taste of what he’s been up to:

Rots By Edo Tastic

Smoke cigarrettes.
Blow my life away.
Go west with the wind
Surrender to the weak flesh
Humane as ever
Uncaring for emotions
As I puff, you huff
Together we live
Minutes off
seconds away
And the times passed
I puff.
It rots.

 

No matter where Edo tastic treks to, he’ll always retain his mantra: “Always  stay original and never change.When you believe in yourself, your dreams will come to light.”

If you want to learn more about the man behind the art or simply make a new friend, just befriend him on Facebook.

Kamila Kokoszynska:One painting,Ten-Thousand Sensations

Grey wolves tend to be powerfully-built, fearless and untamed in the wild. And it would often take a 10-man army to accost these furry warriors.

However, the humane way to capture these wolves  is to do what Kamila Kokoszynska does;which is to paint their soulful eyes and to  emit the right strokes, as a way to expel  ten-thousand emotions and sensations. Through proper color and technique usage, the painting converges into  a moment that lasts forever versus a captured, decaying, carcass that only lasts a week.

Not every painter can do this arduous task but Kokoszynska surely can. It takes someone who is fearless, with  a  positive mindset and an innocent child-like perspective to  take on this role–as a  femme fantastica in  the art world.  

 Since she was 5-years old, Kokoszynska has been painting  in her native land of Poland. Her family recognized her talents early on ( since she loved to play with her great-grandmother’s painting utensils as a young child) and supported her when she participated in extracurricular/cultural art centers.

From then on, she learned how to paint, draw, do charcoal prints, use dry pastels,and do prints. Along the way, she  picked up  an amalgamation of other skills that have widened her horizons in the art world (cooking, teaching piano, socializing, swimming, and teaching).

Currently, she’s getting  a BFA in Graphic Design and incorporates going to school with holding succesful art exhibits in the DMV area (  such as Art-omatic, at Kelly’s Gallery in Alexandria, VA, Torpedo Factory for example). She’s also won numerous first-place awards over the course of her life– including “Most Promising Artist” in her undergraduate  experience.

Kokoszynska is a firm believer in incorporating different styles in her landscapes(very well known for), Portait, Surrealist, imaginative, art work. She’s also well versed in Surrealism, Impressionism, Abstracts, and Realist work. If anyone believes in re-incarnation, one could point out that she could very well be Salvador Dali in this life-time.

Besides having great talents, she has this burgeoning confidence and optimism for any artist–new or old–interested in  painting, drawing or  even sketching, professionally.

 She has the following  advice for any new artist entering the field for fun or as a career:

1.) Art is something you can’t control and it just comes or goes. So please don’t try to force yourself into painting on the spot, let it come to you naturally.

2.) When you paint, there is no time limit. It’s kind of like you lose yourself in your work and you forget the hours pass  by.  Because of this, remember to take breaks and eat when you can. You don’t want to literally be a starving artist, now do you?

3.) Not all artists are loners. I’m a social artist who loves to meet other artists in the DMV area but I do know when to use alone time to do my work.  By interacting with different people, I am able to embody a vast amount of perceptions and to shade it into my work. So, you can be social and an artist.

4.) If anyone steals your artwork, remember that they can never take away  your art skills.

5.) No matter what, each painting you make is one-of-a-kind and a part of you is represented on a canvas. So cherish them and don’t try to replicate them, just because someone tells you too.

6.) When you paint outside, be wary of the weather since anything can happen.

7.) In art, your life experiences can get embedded into your artwork so paint freely. Don’t  worry about making mistakes. Paint fearless like it’s your last day on earth since that’s where your best work will come from.

8.) Don’t think about how much money you can make since it will easily corrupt and stunt yourself, as an artist.  Art is about expressing individuality not about rolling in massive benjamins. This corrupt  mentallity will only restrain your creative juices and stunt your abilities in creating original works of art.

If you want more advice, an art lesson or want to buy any of Kokoszynska works of art in the United States or internationally, please e-mail her at: kamila.koko@yahoo.com . (Also please click on highlighted links to check out or purchase any of  Kokoszynska’s work. )

Visit:

• Her 2009 Art-O-Matic Exhibit.
• Her Online Gallery (Where you can purchase an authentic Kokoszynska).