Mayor of Ashkelon, Israel visits Baltimore!

"Benny Vaknin, Mayor of Ashkelon, Israel, awaits his introduction at a reception promoting the Baltimore-Ashkelon partnership Wednesday, June 15, 2011."

Tonight I was invited to a dinner reception honoring the Mayor of Ashkelon, who is currently visiting Baltimore from Israel to continue growing the already strong partnership between the two cities. 

It was a nice gathering that brought me right back to my time in Israel and has me thinking of my friends from Ashkelon. Benny seemed to have a warm and calming personality, which made it easy to get some cheerful portraits like this one. He also happened to choose the seat right next to me, so I enjoyed listening to his Hebrew chatter over salmon and hummus. 

This dinner also reminded of my “camera as an extension of me” philosophy. It’s funny how people you haven’t seen in awhile recognize you simply because you’ve got your camera over your shoulder. 

Fried Chickens – They’re Ready.

"Two girls hold signs advertising a fried chicken stand in Bridgeville, Delaware Sunday, June 19, 2011."

I went down to Bethany Beach last weekend with some friends. It was a relaxing weekend before starting work.

I had every intention of shooting some life in Bethany while I was there, but laziness turned out to be far more convenient. It wasn’t until the drive home that I started snapping out the window of the car. 

This one turned out well. The two girls both look so disinterested.