SAS Cupcakes in Newark,DE Gives Back!

Written By: Jennifer Roche

Rainbows of Happiness LLC

SAS Cupcakes Manager Lauren Petrick-Berger

Are you craving something sweet to eat?  Then head over to SAS Cupcakes on Main Street in Newark DE!  Before you even reach the delicious cupcakes displayed at the counter, you experience a brightly designed store filled with unique party supplies, pick-a-mix candy, and everywhere you look, there is whimsical decor!  SAS Cupcakes offers more to consumers than meets the eye!  

I spoke with Lauren Petrick-Bergen, manager of the SAS Cupcakes shop in Newark Delaware, about the ways SAS gives back to the community.  Currently, SAS Cupcakes sells a special pink cupcake where $1.00 from the sale of each of these cupcakes goes towards the Susan G. Komen Foundation to support those battling breast cancer.  SAS Cupcakes works with the University of Delaware sororities as well, by hosting philanthropy events and fundraisers sponsered by the sororities.  All charity events hosted by SAS Cupcakes focus on either education, community outreach, or health and wellness.  Charities range from those at the State and National level,  to those charities from local organizations.  When SAS isn't hosting charity events, the store has a promotion every Tuesday where their cupcakes are $2.00 all day called $2 Tuesdays.  

The level of enthusiasm and commitment by both Lauren and her staff members at SAS Cupcakes is infectious upon entering the store!  Most importantly all the cupcakes are delicious!!  So next time you are on Main Street, be sure to stop into SAS Cupcakes, a business that cares about people and benefiting the community as much as they care about producing delectable treats!

Cupcake created for Susan G. Komen Foundation

Author Interview: A.M Clark, Creator of "The Betrayal"

Written By: Jennifer L. Roche

Rainbows of Happiness LLC

I had the pleasure of interviewing A.M Clark creator of "The Betrayal" available in ebook format at Smashwords.com, Barnes and Noble, and Amazon.com.  "The Betrayal" deals with the topic of domestic violence, and Clark draws you into her story using such poignant images that her characters seem to leap from the pages into your heart.  Read about Clark's journey to becoming a published author in her interview.
1. How long have you been writing?
I've enjoyed writing ever since I was a child.  I remember when I was nine years old, my class use to have half an hour of "sustained silent writing" after lunch each day.  The other kids in my class would waste as much time as possible, but I would sit there and write pages and pages of stories.  It was my favorite thing.

2.  As a new writer, what was your biggest obstacle to overcome when trying to publish your work?
For now, I've opted to go the self-published route.  So far I've only "dipped my toe in the water" with a couple of short stories.  There haven't been any obstacles per say- more of a huge learning curve to get up to speed with proper formatting, sizing book covers, and trying to make contacts. The biggest challenge is actually getting people to read your stuff.

3.  Your newest piece, "The Betrayal", is a short story. Do you write in any other genres?
Short fiction is my passion.  However I do have a couple of romance novels sitting on my hard drive, but they need a bit of work.

4.  What compels you to write?
For me, writing is total self-expression.  There's something so freeing about telling a story the way you want to.  You can then put it out to an audience to see how their interpretation differs from your intended meaning.  It's a fascinating process!

5.  The characters you created for "The Betrayal" seem so real and animated in the story.  Where do you find inspiration for your characters?
All my characters are inspired by people I know or have met.  I love to combine the attributes of two or more people together to create a character.  Like most writers, I also enjoy people-watching.

6.  In your new story, "The Betrayal", you write about domestic violence.  What made you choose this topic?
I worked for an organization that helped people, (mainly women), who were victims of domestic violence.  Though thecstory itself is not based on any specific case, the male character, "Stan", is a very typical profile of an abuser.  Many people often ask, "why don't victims just leave?"  It's a good question, one that I use to ask before I worked in the sector.  The short answer is: leaving often puts victims in more danger.  Many murders happen after a victim has told their abuser that the relationship is over.

7.  Do you feel that people are able to identify with the stories you create?  In what ways?
I hope people can identify with the characters I create.  I always try to leave a few "gaps" ina character's profile that the reader can fill in themselves.  I know many readers like a description of a character down to the length of their toenails.  But as a reader, I like to imagine some of the character's details myself, so I try to do the same for my readers.

8.  What traits do you feel are important for a writer to possess?
I think introverts make the best writers.  Writing is a solitary activity, so it's great for someone, (like me), who enjoys their own company, and can hack going all day long without talking to anyone else.  You also have to be incredibly self-motivated and persistent.  It involves sitting down and disciplining yourself to write.  The drive to keep going has to come from within.

9.  If you were not able to be a writer, what other career would you pursue?
Good question!  Previously I've worked as a journalist, that might be something I'd consider pursuing again.

10.  What is the next writing piece you are working on?
I'm working on a collection of short stories based around a single theme. It's an exciting project!

11.  What future writing goals do you have?
Right now, I'm focused on finishing my current book, and gaining more of a following.  I've thought about script writing, but that's definitely a long term goal.

12.  If you could offer advice to a new writer in the industry, what would you say?
I would encourage new writers not to hesitate in putting their writing into the public domain.  I know I was afraid of getting negative reviews, but actually I've struggled to get any reaction at all!  So if you have a writing piece, and its been professionally proofread, then go for it!

13.  When you're not writing, what hobbies and interests do you enjoy?
My number one interest right now, is my two month old son!  Parenthood isn't easy, but I'm enjoying getting to know my son- he's awesome!  I also enjoy yoga, travel, reading, and running.

14.  Who has been your biggest supporter in your journey to becoming a published author?
My husband has been my number one supporter.  If he didn't have my back, I don't know that I would be doing this.

15.  What websites can help people locate more of your work?
You can find me on Smashwords.com, Barnes and Noble, Goodreads, and Amazon.  I'm also on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn- so friend, follow, and add me as a connection!

Thank you A.M Clark, in allowing the world to learn more about you and your writing!  Best of luck with your upcoming stories!

My newest poem, a good view!

Please view my newest poetry piece on the below link at my blog. I'd love feedback but please be positive about it! Thank you for viewing this!
http://pensivewriter2013.wordpress.com/

Author Interview!

On Wednesday Oct 16th I will be posting an interview with author A.M Clark on my blog.  Her current short story is "The Betrayal" available at Smashwords, Barnes & Noble, & Amazon.  It's a griping tale of a woman caught in a marriage of domestic violence and her plan to escape.  Be sure to visit this blog Oct 16th to read more on my interview with the book's author A.M Clark and drop me a comment!

Rainbow of Beauty

How beautiful is this vibrant rainbow that just appeared across from my house?

The Final Penstroke: Dub Glenn and myself!

The Final Penstroke: Dub Glenn and myself!

Interview with Jazz Musician Dub Glenn!

Musicians are Writers That Publicly Bare Their Souls!

Interview with Jazz Musician Dub Glenn

Written by: Jennifer L. Roche

 

 

I had the pleasure of listening to Dub Glenn play some soulful jazz music this past weekend.  His music repertoire covered everyone from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Jimi Hendrix.  Dub played guitar and sang solo, but it sounded as if a full band was behind him, due to his use of a midi keyboard sequencer.  The jazz music sounded unique, and created a pleasurable, soothing vibe among the audience.  He’s a passionate musician, whose love for music shines through in his impressive guitar riffs, and personality.  I sat down with Dub after his set to further discuss the unique blend he gives to his music, what keeps him playing show after show, and goals he has for his musical career in the future. 

 

Jennifer: Is Dub your real name or a stage name you created?

 

Dub: My actual name is Walter Glenn Jr., but growing up everyone called me W.B, from which Dub was born.

 

Jennifer: How long have you been playing instruments and performing?

 

Dub: I’ve been doing shows for 13 years.  I’ve played guitar since I was seven years old, I played organ at a young age as well, since there was an organ in my home growing up.  In grade school I learned to play trumpet, playing in the Blue Rock Drum and Bugle Corp. from the age of eleven.  The experience of being in the Blue Rock Drum and Bugle Corp. helped mold my thinking, and taught me discipline that I feel helped me become the musician I am today.  While in college, I taught breathing techniques and brass techniques to students to earn extra money. Music has always been part of my life!

 

Jennifer: What made you become interested in performing publically?

 

Dub: When my youngest son asked me to teach him the song “Stairway to Heaven”.  He mastered that song so well, that I realized I had better continue honing my craft so he didn’t get better than me!  Now I play music with my sons and they help supply the drum beats to music tracks for me.

 

Jennifer: What do you attribute your love of music to?

 

Dub:  Music allows you to release pent up feelings, and apply those emotions to the music you play.  The guitar as an instrument is incredibly expressive.  When I play in front of people, I am opening up my soul, baring myself to others through my music.  When creating good music you need to have passion.  You must play with passion!

 

Jennifer: I agree! In order to write well, you must have that same passion.  I noticed that you involve technology in your performances to create the sound of a band behind you.  What instruments can you play?

 

Dub: I can play guitar, keyboards, piano, brass, and organ.  I use a keyboard processor to record the other instruments you hear in the songs (piano, keyboard, horns, and strings).  I play these parts myself except for the drums which my sons play the tracks for.  I use a midi keyboard to get the other instrument sounds mixed into a song.  When I perform, I play guitar, sing, and use the midi sequencer with the previously recorded parts integrated into it. The end result is that it sounds like a full band is behind me!  

 

Jennifer: Who are your personal musical influences?

 

Dub: For brass I am influenced by Bill Chase of Chicago, Maynard Ferguson, and Blood, Sweat, and Tears.  For guitar influences I look to Gary Moore, Popa Chubby, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, and Stevie Ray Vaughn.  My biggest influences in music currently are Stevie Ray Vaughn and Gary Moore.

 

Jennifer: How many songs have you written, and do you perform any of them at your shows?

 

Dub: I’ve written dozens of songs over the years including “Sound of a Full Band”, “Happy Anniversary to My Baby”, “Just for a Little While”, and “Everybody Loves My Baby”.  I perform four or five of my own songs during a show.

 

Jennifer: Do you have a song you consider your favorite?

 

Dub: My favorite song is called “Everybody Loves My Baby”.  It’s written about my wife.

 

 

Jennifer: Do you have any future goals that you wish to achieve with your music?

 

Dub: I’m not looking to become famous, I just want to have fun making music and perform for as long as I can. 

 

Jennifer: Sounds great!  Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians just starting out?

 

Dub: Don’t be too serious, have fun!  This is a hard business, and sometimes the best music doesn’t get noticed.  It’s about being in the right place at the right time.  It’s also important to give back to the music community, by helping those musicians that are starting out.  I have been mentoring a young girl since she was 13. She’s now 16, and has turned into a great musician!  It’s important to “pay it forward” by supporting others.

 

If you wish to learn more about Dub Glenn, or attend one of his performances, visit his site at: www.dubglenn.com

 

 

 

 

Upcoming Interview with Jazz Muscian Dub Glenn!

On Oct 8th I will be highlighting unique jazz musician Dub Glenn on this blog. What makes him unique? Read this blog on Oct 8th to find out! Trust me he is an interesting individual! Check in on the 8th for a photograph and full details! "Music, like writing allows us to bare our souls to the world!" Dub Glenn

That's MY Spot!

I can't leave my spot on the bed for two seconds without this happening! How many of you have this same problem?

Call of the Wind

The wind has a song heard only by a few,
Melodic, sweet, and airy in tune.
It floats over the tallest of trees,
Soars higher than the greatest moutain peak.
An everlasting melody, flowing through time,
Telling of nature's magnificent gifts to its listeners.
Spinning wondrous, magical tales, Delighting both young and old.
Twirling about, in an invisible ballet,
Briefly encircling its audience for an encore.
Then rising towards the fluffy clouds it soars,
Sharing its whispering melody with the heavens above.