The Poly Project Needs Your Help Getting To D.C.!

Hello readers! It has been quite some time since my last post but, with numb fingers and frostbite courtesy of the snowstorms slamming the East Coast, I needed time to heal. Ok, perhaps I am exaggerating about the frostbite however, the frigid temperatures are the truth! Nevertheless, I am back and writing because I need your help with a project that I am heavily involved in. Want to know more? Keep reading!

Working at the NYU School of Engineering, I have the pleasure of working with a diverse group of students who are committed to academic excellence, dedicated to serving others and passionate about expanding their minds. When thinking about the service to others, the Poly Project comes to mind and their upcoming service trip to D.C.! Starting to catch on? Well, TPP needs your help in the fundraising department and below you will find all of the information regarding the trip:

The Poly Project is an initiative through the Office of Student Activities with the purpose of providing community service opportunities for the School of Engineering student body and building a community of service-oriented students.

This spring semester, The Poly Project is offering its first ever overnight service trip to Washington, D.C. to volunteer with Youth Service Opportunities Project to address homelessness and hunger.

The Service Trip Team is comprised of 20 students and 2 staff members. The team is tasked to fundraise at least $2,000 to cover transportation, lodging, food, and service fees as a group. To fundraise for the outing, we have set up a GoFundMe link in which you can click here for more information: http://www.gofundme.com/TPPGoes2DC

What will we be doing?

Volunteers will prepare and serve meals at soup kitchens; they will provide recreational activities and companionship to young, formerly homeless children; they will distribute food and supplies at food pantries; they will socialize and bring snacks to people in drop-in centers. Occasionally they will join in special projects we have been asked to staff, such as painting a new shelter with residents or distributing clothing at a clothing bank.

T H A N K    Y O U

Your donation is an investment. Your contribution allows The Poly Project to enhance students' learning experiences outside of the classroom, raising awareness of "real world" issues allowing students to see themselves as change agents and problem solvers. Our vision is for our participants to become and develop as multicultural community builders who see justice beyond charity, compassion beyond blames and stereotypes, diversity beyond tolerance, and social responsibility beyond self.

For more information about the Washington, D.C. Service Trip, please click the following link:  http://engineering.nyu.edu/life/studentactivities/the-poly-project/altbreak

Again, thank you all for your time and help and fingers crossed that this goes off without a hitch!

XOXO,

Whitney

A Toast To The Gleam In 2015!

Hello readers. My oh my has it been quite some time since our last correspondence. Let me bring you up to speed regarding the details of events: we have transitioned from Autumn to Winter, I, along with the members of my Higher Education cohort, have completed the first semester of graduate school, and, it is finally 2015. Yes, as you are reading this, the ball in Times Square has dropped and it is January 1, 2015. I won't even ask, "can you believe it?" because frankly, as we know…time waits for no one. So, in an effort to be mindful of your time, I'll keep this post brief. 

As we wade through the Facebook statuses, the Twitter updates and the Instagram posts that all center on life lived in 2014, the lessons learned in 2014 and what takeaways will be the foundation for our 2015's, I find that my thoughts are reminiscent of two songs beautifully sung by a man so eloquently dubbed, 'Ol Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra. Those two songs are "My Way" and "New York, New York". I know, one is a song so dreary and usually reserved for saying your final goodbyes while the other is so upbeat, so optimistic and so reassuring that even when you move and/or live in NYC and you're down on your luck, because you have that wherewithal, hustle and grit, you'll come out on the other side. Now, what do those two have to do with ushering in 2015. Well, I'll show you.

With lines in which Sinatra says, 

Regrets, I've had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do and saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course, each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way

To only continue to sing and then say, 

I've loved, I've laughed and cried
I've had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way,
"Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way"

In essence, we spent our 2014 living, laughing, crying, regretting and in the midst of that cycle, we did it our way. We didn't bend and we didn't cower. And so, if we're going to make 2015 the best one yet, we have to continue doing it….OUR WAY!

As we continue to celebrate, let's all remember to do so in the manner that fits us and is upbeat, optimistic and helps us come out on the other side just like "New York, New York" does. And with that, I say, Happy New Year readers and let's all be kings and queens of our hills and the top of our heaps.

XOXO,

Whitney

Derek Jeter, Thank You…Enough Said

Hello readers! It's fall and as the leaves turn brown and we bid farewell to the lust and love that was summer, we also bid farewell to a staple... an icon…a renowned figure. Tonight, September 25, 2014 marked the final appearance of my friend, and yours too, Derek Jeter in New York Yankee pinstripes. Effective as of Monday morning, Derek Jeter's tenure as a New York Yankee will be up and frankly, selfishly and childishly speaking, I don't want him to go.

As I've mentioned on numerous occasions, Derek Jeter is synonymous with the positivity that is my childhood. Growing up in the Bronx, I was fortunate to be able to use the eclectic and diverse surroundings to aid in my teachings outside of the classroom. Luckily enough, those surroundings included the famed Yankee Stadium. When you think of the Bronx and "splendor", there are four things that come to mind: The Bronx Zoo, The Botanical Garden, The Bronx Museum of the Arts and Yankee Stadium. If you were to poll people on where they've spent the majority of their time, it would be the latter. Now, don't get me wrong, these four institutions are credited with transforming the youth of the Bronx in various ways BUT, it is Yankee Stadium where the magic happens. For me, that magic was felt in 1995 when a wide-eyed/keen/observant/determined/hungry and all around pleasant lad by the name of Derek Jeter entered into the league. I thought another player had entered into the fray that was the professional arena but little did I know, Derek Jeter would have a profound effect one me.

At 7 years old, the concept of a "crush" was out of my reach and while I could not formally articulate my feelings with a concrete definition, I knew I liked that kid! Over the course of my aging, my affinity grew far beyond his smile to admiring things such as his tenacity for success, work ethic towards accomplishing a task at hand, his poise and his respect for the profession he chose and the people who shared the field with him. Ok, ok, so his baby blue eyes and freckles are a plus and his physique is a bonus but, let's not make this NSFW lol. Let's just say, there are a multitude of things to admire and to pick just one does this post minimal justice.

As I began to truly understand what my feelings were for Derek Jeter, I could not wait to share them with the world and during my adolescent years, I ran my affection into the ground! Whether it was spending my formidable high school years compiling a detailed scrapbook, acquiring apparel and/or spending waking moments at Yankee Stadium, every experience had a story and I made sure it was told. Heads up, I will recount these tales for years to come.

Matriculating to college and beyond, my love for Derek never faltered. Through the additions and subtractions of players from all realms on my "Favorites" list, Derek's spot was never usurped. No awe-inspiring/record breaking play could have made me demote Derek Jeter. Perhaps it was my bias or my stubbornness to change but Derek could never be replaced.

So, how do I end this folklore? Do I conclude with a good bye? I don't know. I know I'm not prepared to say good bye so I won't. I'll thank you, Derek Jeter, for providing this girl with memories many can only dream of. Thank you, for 19 years of laughs, tears, heated debates with fanatics of other teams and enough t-shirts to clothe my family 2x over. I've been listening to Sam Smith a lot and Derek, I'll be selfish one last time and say, why don't stay with me because you're all I need. Come on darling, stay with me…

XOXO,
Whitney

40 And Fabulous! Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

Hello readers! How has the long awaited summer been treating you thus far? Already fed up with the fluctuating heat and threats of thunderstorms? I hope not, because the best of this season is yet to come! Now that we've exchanged pleasantries, let's get into the post. Today, June 26, 2014, marks the 40th birthday of a icon, a legend, a captain at the helm and a storied hero…DEREK SANDERSON JETER! 

Always in reflective mode, it is difficult to grasp the idea that I was first introduced to Derek roughly 19 years ago. I was 7 and he was the wide-eyed, ever eager 21 year old starting SS for the New York Yankees. As I have always reiterated, through and through, time and time again, on multiple occasions, I was quickly enamored with Derek and have been ever since. He is without a doubt one of the most charismatic figures in sports and I cannot wait to see his post baseball endeavors soar to new heights!

Once again, Happy Birthday, Derek  and I wish you nothing but continued success and greatness as you enter your 40's. If orange is the new black, then 40 is the new age of thinking. The 40's are a decade of enlightenment and boy oh boy, are we fans certainly in for a delicious treat!

P.S. because no birthday greeting is complete without a reminder of the eye candy that has been bestowed upon us, here are a few pictures to keep you occupied:

XOXO,

Whitney

Season 2 Bid Farewell To Cristina

Hello readers. How has your 2014 been progressing since the last time I've written you in March? I know life happens and can throw you for a loop but, I will be the voice of reason and respond for you, "amazing!". Now that the formalities are out of the way, let's get into tonight's post.

If you're scratching your head about the title, do not be alarmed for I have not lost my creative touch and half-assed a heading. In a year that has began with major announcements of a retirement, specifically the retirement of New York Yankees captain, Derek Jeter and the final season of Sandra Oh's performance as Cardiothoracic's supernova, Cristina Yang, I decided to combine their respective departures and acknowledge what they've meant to me. Because there is still more than enough time to write a 4-page letter on Jeter, I'll reserve this space for Cristina Yang.

For 10 seasons, avid fans of Grey's Anatomy have been riding on a medical roller coaster. Since we fans have been introduced to Cristina, we've cried, laughed, thickened our skin, hardened our hearts and have been steadfast in the pursuit of achieving greatness. Although a character, Cristina Yang has played a pivotal role in ensuring that millions tune in every Thursday night at 9p to see what were about to be transported to next. I am proud to say that I have been a dedicated viewer and while Cristina's (Oh) departure can be seen as Grey's losing its luster, I know that Yang will thrive in Zurich. She's a shark so why would we expect anything less?

As I end this post, I wish nothing but the best for the brilliant Sandra Oh. May your next leg of your tour be just as memorable if not better than the last. We love you and cannot wait to see you on the screen again.

XOXO,
Whitney

Through & Through, We Fans Will Always Fight For Our Love of Duke U!

Hello readers. In between work, gearing up for baseball season and taking time to stop and smell the roses, a lot has happened in the world of sports and entertainment. While I am not going to rehash every moment, I will talk about the biggest event of the spring season. As you all are well aware of, March Madness is underway and since Tuesday and 3 days in, brackets are in shamble and we've all been screaming "Oy Vey!". Sadly, I have now joined the vacation pool of losing teams due to the Duke's exit in the first round. Ugh, give me a break!

Friday afternoon, at 12:15p, televisions, laptops and smartphones continued to be glued to CBS, Tru TV, TNT and TBS as games rolled full speed ahead. The Duke Blue Devils played The Mercer Bears and honestly speaking, the Blue Devils were slated to smoke the Bears. Oddly enough, the #3 Blue Devils were beat 78 - 71 by the #14 Bears and sent brackets across the globe into despair. I did not watch today's game because of a prior engagement and truthfully, I'm glad I didn't. My heart would have been torn into pieces watching eager freshmen and season seniors lose in such a fashion. I refuse to watch highlights because I know it'll only make me frown. As always readers, myself and my teams bounce back from failure but at this moment, I want to sulk.

So, as I close out this post, I want to take a moment to thank the Duke Blue Devils for consistently putting a smile on my face and taking me to new heights. To my squad and the wickedly talented Coach Michael Krzyzewski, thank you for all that you've done this season. It was arduous but we made it through. To my seniors, oh the places you'll go on your journey after college. To the freshmen, sophomores and juniors, let's keep working to bring home that 5th title.  My heart will forever bleed Duke blue and you'll never have to question my loyalty. I'll see you at graduation and then the fall.

XOXO,
Whitney

Derek Jeter Memories Light The Corners Of My Mind

Hello readers. As my fingers begin to type, I find myself at a loss for words because my emotions are well at work. I am trying to compose myself but as updated information crosses my path, all I want to do is curl up in a ball, stop time and watch past highlights. You all may be wondering, "What's going on?! Why is she about to have a breakdown?!" and well here's why: this afternoon, Derek Jeter announced that 2014 will be his last season in pinstripes. Yes, Derek Jeter has clued the world in on his impending retirement. It's the end of an era.

Due to me gathering my thoughts and taking in every bit of news available, I'll keep this post short. Also, I need to start purchasing as many home game available for the 2014 season. So, as I go, I'll leave you with Derek's official statement on the matter. Hugs for us all!

XOXO,
Whitney

On Mob Wives, There Is My Truth, Your Truth, & Twitter...

Hello readers, I hope 2014 has been treating you well thus far. As we continue to bid farewell to the 2013- 14 NFL season and we here in the Northeast brave the Polar Vortex & copious amounts of snow, I wanted to take your mind off of those stresses and provide a much needed recap of tonights episode of Mob Wives New Blood. Things are heating up as the "truth" finds its light. Let's begin!

As you all may be well aware of, Season 4of Mob Wives went through some dramatic changes. Karen Gravano, Carla Facciolo, and Ramona Rizzo are no longer apart of the cast and just when we thought their replacements would fall short, Philadelphia natives Alicia DiMichele Garofalo and Natalie Guercio have surpassed expectations. For the past 7 episodes of this season, we've watched intensely as Alicia and Natalie work to build a friendship with the other girls and although some feathers have been ruffled and fists have flew, it's safe to say that they've won us over. However, tonight, episode 8, things spiraled downward as Alicia and veteran Renee Graziano laid their pasts, presents, and futures on the table.

Alicia and Renee are familiar friends through their affiliation with Alicia's husband Edward. Eddie is one of Renee's childhood best friends and through Eddie she has come to love and respect Alicia. Edward unfortunately is in prison due to Mafia related charges and Alicia has been indicted on embezzlement charges connected to her husband. Scared, confused, and feeling betrayed, Alicia is wary of everyone and everything. Furthermore, listening to wiretaps that reference Renee, Eddie, and Eddie's ex-girlfriend Carla only heightens the situation. AND, as if things aren't already in a disarray, Alicia has discovered that Renee has been discussing her federal case amongst her Staten Island cronies. Mamma mia marrone! Alicia felt that it was time to get to the bottom of it!

Last episode, we ended with Alicia accusing the girls of leaking information to the press and that didn't sit well with any of them especially Renee. Fast forward to tonight and Renee expressed her disappointment to anyone who would listen, including Alicia's enemy, Carla. Carla is well aware of Alicia's dislike for her presence as well as the federal case against her. Rather than try to hash out the beef between them, Alicia and Carla would rather throw daggers and BAYBEE, Carla threw some digs tonight. The best dig to summarize why Alicia hates her was expressed during Renee and Carla's lunch date, "Eddie's family still loves me & they really don't approve of her. Also, I've been friends with Eddie for 30 years and he's even asked me to help him pick out her birthday gifts. She's just insecure because we're still friends". B-I-T-C-H! I nearly fell out when I heard that. Not only is your husband still friends with his ex, they used to go shopping together for you! I am too through! lol

While this is hilarious, it still doesn't crack the case of who is leaking information. Remember, Alicia is convinced Renee is talking about her and to prove it, she's decided to screenshot a Twitter rant of Renee's. I absolutely love Alicia DiMichele but, when 40 year old women rely on Twitter as a source of truth, I can't find the seriousness in your argument. Moving along, Alicia and Renee decided to have a lunch date to smooth things over. Lunch dates have proven to be ineffective because Renee read Alicia for filth. Renee made it clear she would forever be loyal to Eddie and Carla and that Alicia is only apart of her world because of her marriage. Aside from that, she has no credibility. Ouch! The day ended with Renee leaving the table and a preview of what's to come next Thursday.

If Mob Wives continues being this explosive this season, we fans will surely continue to pull in the ratings!

XOXO,
Whitney

We All Have Big Dreams In 2014!

Hello readers! As we anxiously stare at our clocks and calendars, we can hardly wait for the new year. That's right, it's December 31, 2013 and as we bid farewell to this year of triumphs, let downs, blessings, and lessons, let's take a moment to reflect on everything that has shaped and moved us. In order to have a prosperous 2014, we have to analyze our highs and our lows, mark down the mistakes, and make the changes. Are you ready? Are you sure? If so, let's begin!

As I previously mentioned in my Christmas post, 2013 was all-encompassing. I experienced triumphs, tragedy, stagnant days, and yet, through it all, I came out on the other side. I know, it sounds a bit cliché but not all experiences are the same. However, if there were many of you have dealt with similar circumstances, I am certain that you centered yourself and found the strength to move forward. This is the fortitude we should carry over into 2014. The tenacity dwelling within us should emerge and take charge. We just have to keep pushing. 

Before we finally close the chapter on 2013, I want to leave you all with a message of hope from a familiar source. In 1993, Jim Valvano attended the ESPY's and was awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award. Dying of bone cancer, Valvano delivered what would become an iconic speech full of wisdom, optimism, and thought. If hearing a dying man speak so highly of the life that was due to be cut prematurely doesn't inspire you to stop complaining, get up, and make an impact, you've missed the whole damn show. Thank you Jim, for having an enthusiasm for life, having a goal, and willing to work for it. That's just what I'm going to do in 2014 :)


XOXO,
Whitney

A Very Special Christmas Greeting Just For You!

Hello readers! As you take a moment from the overwhelming excitement of unwrapping gifts, gather your friends and family to read this post. Because I know we're all in a rush to eat and continue screaming, I'll keep it short. Let's get into it:

In years past, I would do a Top 10 list telling you all what I've been grateful for during the holiday season. I've come to learn that while lists are fun and creative, it's getting hard to narrow down blessings. I take it as a good thing. My blessings and good tidings have been abundant and as I watch those I love share in the overflow, all I can do is sit back and take it all in. While 2013 has been a trying year for me, a few setbacks and a personal loss, overall, it has been an eye-opening twelve months. The lessons learned will surely carry over to 2014. I am truly ready to prepare the farewell to 2013 and eagerly welcome all that is in store.

As I conclude this post, I wish you, my loyal fans, continued health and wealth. I wish nothing but success for you all and although the storm clouds may threaten to damper your day, week, and month, I pray you find solace and the strength to get up and shine bright. Have a Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Feliz Navidad, and Buon Natale, a Happy New Year and save me copious plates of food :)

XOXO,
Whitney

And Now, The End Is Near & I'll Say It Clear: We'll Miss You Robinson Cano!

Hello readers! First and foremost, how was everyone's Thanksgiving? I can only imagine the love, warmth, and feeling of togetherness as you and your family gathered around the table. Let's not forget the smells of onion, garlic, cloves, sugar, etc. that permeated through the air. My mouth is watering reliving the bevy of food that coursed its way through my body. Before my hunger gets the best of me, let's get into this post.

As we close out another week, rather than the jubilance of the approaching weekend, sorrow fills my heart. I am plagued with a sadness that I thought I would never experience because I was confident that the organization in question would be at the helm and steer the passengers in the right direction. Ladies and gentlemen, I regret to inform you that Robinson Cano is no longer a New York Yankee. Robinson Cano is now a Seattle Mariner and after a hard-fought battle, he is getting his wish: 240 million dollars for 10 years. Apparently you can have it all.

I have spent the entire day trying to vocalize my feelings and every time I feel as if there is a window of opportunity to explain my emotions, I am reduced to tears. Now, let me be clear, these are not obnoxious tears but a few tears to show just how much I'll miss him. Why will I miss him? When Robinson Cano donned those pinstripes in 2005, I was quickly enamored. I vividly remember him wearing a distinct #14 at his first at-bat. While most remember #22 and more recently #24, I made it a point to mark each transition throughout his career. When I play close attention to detail, it ensures that you have me hooked and boy was I hooked on Cano.

We are all well aware about my reverence and obsession for Derek Jeter. Therefore, with Cano's emergence, it came as a shock to those around me, and myself, that I harbored the same respect and admiration for a rookie as I did my veteran captain. Dare I give the newcomer a chance? Absolutely and 9 years later, I am at peace with my decision.

As Cano prepares to say goodbye to New York, the Yankees, his teammates, and fans, I am certain that my love for him will continue as he embarks on this new journey. Robinson Cano, I wish you nothing but the best. Shine bright in Seattle, kid and remember that no matter how long and hard they "boo", you chose to be happy, you saw the life inside it all, and your career will continue to be beautiful like a diamond in the sky.

P.S., if any of my adoring readers would like to pass this on to our 2nd baseman, feel free to :)

XOXO,
Whitney

Top 5 Things I'm Grateful For This Thanksgiving!

Hello readers! I've missed writing to you all. In the midst of living and soaking up a plethora of opportunities that life has bestowed upon me, I thought I'd take a moment, reflect, and enjoy some personal writing. As we look on our calendars, it's hitting us that 2013 is coming to a close and before we can unwrap presents & drink champagne to send off the year, we have to gather around the table and indulge. That's right, it's Thanksgiving! Can you believe that it's turkey time yet again? Let the warm and fuzzy feelings commence! Now, let's get to the nature of this post. Last year, I decided to forgo a "Top 10" list and stick to one long post. Well, I'm bringing the list back. But, instead of 10 things I'm grateful for, it'll be 5. So, let's jump right in, the Top 5 things I'm grateful for this Thanksgiving are:

5. Sports - 2013 has been a trying year for me, in all capacities, and oddly enough, it's been sports that has provided a form of escapism. From the Yankees and there never-ending saga of triumph/defeat to the All Star Game turning rivals into friends for 3 hours to Duke basketball showing promise with the emergence of Jabari Parker, sports has allowed me to center and gather my thoughts while playing coach and GM to the masses. Thank you, guys!

4. Meaningful Friendships - The saying goes, "friends come into your for a season and/or reason" and this year, I've made friends who will surely be in a presence for many seasons to come and I've kept friends whose value continues to climb. It has been through their laughter, listening ears, and increasing optimism that has made an impact on my life. When old friendships and new friendships collide, there is no force that can break our bonds. 

3. Childlike Spirit - There's nothing greater than watching the same Looney Tunes episode of Bugs Bunny giving Gossamer a makeover while saying in a Brooklyn Italian accent, "You monsters make very inter-esting people" and cracking up as if it's the first time it's crossed your path. When everything seems to be caving in, flipping to Cartoon Network and watching Adventure Time is the remedy. If cartoons can find silver linings, so can we!

2. Wisdom- I've seen a lot and have encountered life changing moments and while the majority of what transpired was due in part to what I call"mistakes", I've come to define them as unnecessary/necessary events. What made them unnecessary was their timing but, what made them essential was that I was able to see past the event and analyze it for what it really was. For me it's truly been about the "take-home" message. 

1. In A Nutshell, Everything - No matter if it's compiled into a list, simple message, or holiday greeting, I give reverence to an all encompassing year. Trying or abundantly blessed, I'm grateful for everyone and everything in my life. 

Well folks, that's my list. It is my hope that you use this Thanksgiving to reflect on what your heart sings and what has awakened your spirit. Stuff your faces and be merry!

XOXO,

Whitney

You're 31?! Let's Pop Some Bottles & Have Fun! Happy Birthday, Robinson Cano!

Hello readers! How have you all been? Hopefully, your lives have been a mix of making dreams come to fruition and relaxing to revel in your successes. We here in NYC have been enjoying the fall weather and the foliage. This post is a short one because I just wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate another year of birth for our very own Robinson Cano!

Robinson Cano is off jet setting around Europe and while he's attending shows in London and Paris, I'm holding down the fandom fort and eagerly awaiting the completion of his contract. I could go into detail and present my PowerPoint slide on exactly what the years and monetary amount would be BUT, that's for another post. For now, I want to party rock, eat cake, and dance on tables with Cano.

Once again, Happy Birthday Robbie and may 31 be a year for the history books!

By the way ladies, you know I couldn't conclude without a little gallery walk of our guy ;)

XOXO,

Whitney

Tara Cannistraci Wants The Best Job Around The World! So, Let's Vote!

Hello readers. I hope you all have been enjoying your summer and if you were lucky enough to experience some warmer days, we New Yorkers envy you. As you continue with your everyday hustle and bustle, take a break and read the following message.

Educator, stand-up comedian, and former MLB reporter Tara Cannistraci has decided to take her talents across the globe in the hopes of changing the lives of children. In order for her to see her dream come to fruition, she needs your vote! Below is the official message from Ms. Cannistraci herself. All it takes is you getting the word out to help build brighter futures.

Ok family and friends, I have just applied for the "Best Job Around The World". Literally. 

You can vote for me once every 24 hours (but if you have more than one device - phone, computer, Ipad etc. more than once!)

PLEASE support me (this time vote), as you all always do! You have supported me from sports to stand-up and now this... Up for the challenge? I am! Please feel free to forward to anyone that you think would vote!!! 

If each of you do this every day we can really show them how far a little girl from the Bronx could go! 

Thank you (again) as always!

Tara Cannistraci 

See link below:

http://www.bestjobaroundtheworld.com/submissions/view/6374.

Thank you for all of your support!

XOXO,
Whitney

Respect That! We're Bowing Down, Yoenis :)

Hello readers! It's the 3rd week of July and there's a massive heatwave. While you all are grappling with new ways to stay cool, MLB's All Star weekend has gotten underway and tonight was the 2013 HR Derby. The usual suspects of heavy hitters filled both the American League and National League teams with the addition of new comers. Now, if you're a biased Yankees fan like myself, you placed all of your eggs into one basket and picked AL Captain Robinson Cano to hoist another trophy. Or, considering the All-Star festivities are being held at Citi Field, you tapped into your rational and had NL Captain, David Wright, bringing a ray of sunshine to Queens. Well, I hate to break it to you but, WE WERE ALL WRONG!

Both David Wright, Robinson Cano, and 2x champion Prince Fielder failed to make it our of the first round, :(, which meant the Derby was up for grabs. Others tried to get their names in the big lights but only 2 really put on a show. Yoenis Cespedes and Bryce Harper channeled their inner Beyonce and said "stop the track, let us face facts, you thought we couldn't hit home runs but we're carrying big bats!" Basically, they had something to prove. Therefore, after a lengthy battle, it would be Yoenis Cespedes who came out clean on the other side.

Congratulations, Yoenis. You better work! In honor of your victory, you can appropriately quote another one of Beyonce's one-liners and say "Respect that, bow down haters". Enjoy!

XOXO,
Whitney

39 & Getting Better With Time! Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter :)

HELLO READERS! It has been far too long since I've written you. I apologize for my negligence for the Spring 2013 semester was quite a challenge for myself and my students. Ultimately, their needs won the tug-of-war. Now that things have cooled down a few degrees, I am devoting my time to my most loyal fans.  I'm back in the saddle and it wouldn't be a glorious meeting between us old friends if I didn't write about............. DEREK JETER!

Yes, our very own Derek Jeter has turned 39 and I must say he's advancing well. It's quite difficult to wrap my head around the fact that Derek made his major league debut 18 years ago. Let that sink in for a bit. Next, let's take a trip down memory lane and piece together exactly who we were and what we were doing 18 years ago. I've given it some thought and it's incredible to think that 18 years ago, I was approaching 7 years old and learning the game of baseball from my great-grandmother. I would sit still on the couch, watch the Yankees in amazement, and that's where I had my first real crush. It was Mr. Jeter. 18 years later, I'm still head over heels for that Yankee.

Although Derek is still rehabbing from his ankle injury, I hope he takes a moment to reflect and smile on another year of life. Derek, your fans love and adore you and we cannot wait for you to take the field again. Readers, wouldn't it be divine if he actually played tomorrow as a gift to us?! Ahh, a fangirl can only dream :)

Once again, Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

P.S., I couldn't leave my fans hanging just like that so, here are a few photos to make you all giddy inside:

XOXO,
Whitney

Duke, You're Still Elite To Me!

Hello readers. How has your spring been treating you thus far? I for one am excited for 60 degree weather, extended daylight, and my spring coat that has been in hibernation. Now, before I continue, I must apologize for my 2 month absence. Yes, you read that correctly, 2 month absence. Having been very busy professionally, executing a stellar Career Day & various other workshops, it seems I have neglected my faithful crew and for that, I am sorry. Apology accepted? Good because this post is a rather sad one. Don't fret, it's not drowning in sadness but it deals with a loss....a tournament loss.

March Madness is almost coming to an end and we all know what kind of month it is for us diehard college basketball fans. Need a reminder? Well, it's chock-full of bitten nails, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, increased need to curse out our television sets, wings, beer, lines divided, rivalries renewed, and the inevitable team getting knocked out of the tournament. Alas, the latter part goes to my babies, the Duke Blue Devils. After losing in the first round during the ACC Tournament, they regrouped and came back strong for the Big Dance. The Big Three comprised of Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly, and Seth Curry, combined forces and dominated. Their lightning power and 3 point ability secured us win after win and allowed us to make it to the Elite Eight. Sadly, that would be the last stop on the tour.

Duke played the Louisville Cardinals tonight and after an emotional first half where Kevin Ware suffered what looks like a career-ending injury and Duke struggling to find its form, Louisville went into halftime with an all-around advantage. Long story short due to me crying, ok ok tearing up a bit, Louisville defeated Duke and is on their way to the Final Four. Congrats are in order to them and prayers for a healthy/speedy recovery for Ware.

So, how do I close this post? I think I'll end by reaffirming my love and admiration for the Duke Blue Devils. I have been a fan since 2000 and that hasn't changed. People knock us down, throw dirt on our name, and yet, we still rise. I am proud to be a Cameron Crazie and equally as proud to call Coach K my leader at the helm. See you guys next year and to my seniors, we're gonna really really miss you. Especially you Seth Curry. Despite my initial dislike for you, you've grown on me & have changed my perspective. Thank you :)

XOXO,
Whitney

You Ready, Bey? Let's Go Get 'Em!

Hello readers! I know it's been quite some time since I've decided to blog and with the new year underway, things have been constantly moving. If you're like myself and millions of fans worldwide, you're gearing up for the Super Bowl and all it has to offer. I'm going to be honest, because my favorite football team is not at the Big Game, I will not be THAT emotionally invested. However, there's nothing like a little Beyonce Giselle Knowles-Carter to fill that void. Our very own King Bey will be performing at the Halftime show and that video was but a taste of what we'll be seeing Sunday. I for one can say that my thirst has been quenched and yet, I still haven't had enough.

Well, during a Super Bowl press conference today, Ms. Bey fought the critics and silenced the haters by singing a LIVE rendition of the National Anthem. Having heard her sing since 1999, you'd think we wouldn't have to put her through such measures to prove her singing chops but alas, she had to warm up her vocals and belt it out. If you've seen the video then I know you've thoroughly enjoyed it.

I don't know how many times or how many ways I can express my excitement for Sunday's performance and no matter how hard I try, I'm speechless. Get 'em, girl!

XOXO,
Whitney

Warm Wishes To You All This Christmas!

Merry Christmas, readers! While you're tearing through gifts, eating meals, and laughing until your stomach hurts, take a breather to read this short and sweet post. Here's to a wonderful day filled with warmth, love, and appreciation. Take a moment to reflect and be grateful for all that you have. I thank you for your continued support & for increasing my views daily. Now, I know the radio has been doing an amazing job with playing the Christmas music on heavy rotation but, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a little music here, too. Enjoy & Merry Christmas to you:

XOXO,
Whitney

2/16/13 B'Doc Day!

Hello readers. As the holiday season continues to roll on and the stresses of decorating and shopping are slowly sending you to asylum, take a little break and breathe. As you count to ten and repeat again, remember that this month is almost over and a new year is approaching. We all know 2013 will be jam-packed with new and exciting things on every front especially in the world of entertainment. From season premieres of some of our favorite shows to the Super Bowl, there's a lot to look forward to. To dig deeper into specifics, there's a plethora of things coming our way from Beyonce aka King Bey and one of them is her self-directed documentary airing on HBO. The buzz has been getting louder and louder and to keep the momentum high, I present to you a sneak peek of what's in store. Disclaimer: Video may cause excessive squealing, yelling, crying, and disturbed stares from onlookers. ENJOY!



XOXO,
Whitney