THE GENERAL STORE is proud to announce the newest addition to our selection of unique creations by local artists.

“My name is Karin Munkacsi-Whitley and I love, love, love to BEAD! I’m a beadaholic and make beadalicious baubles for your lobes. If you are looking for earrings that will not go with anything else, or mixed media or even that boho look, I’m your artisan! Are you ever looking for some simple accessory to throw on running out the door with your hair on fire and you just don’t have anything that wouldn’t make you a “Glamour Don’t?” Glad to meet you!

After growing up in Lakeland (class of ’85 – Go ‘Naughts!) I joined the US Navy and served on active duty for 4 years as an Aviation Electrician’s Mate, Petty Officer 3rd class, working on the F/A-18 aircraft on land and aboard several different aircraft carriers. During Desert Shield & Desert Storm I served stateside for two years in the active reserves. After earning the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Medal it was time to go home with my honorable discharge. While in the Navy I experienced several harrowing events and consequently suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I had to find an outlet, a hobby, that would mediate my symptoms. I turned to beading and now it’s a daily part of my “diversion therapy” and management of this condition. I prefer “medically retired” rather than “disabled.”

I started beading at home with whatever junk I could get my hands on to upcycle and recycle and try and turn it into wearable art. Finding my niche was no easy task and before I knew it I had made about 100 pairs of earrings, with nowhere to wear them! My designs are quirky for your funky self! If you have anyquestions at all about a custom creation, feel free to drop me a line … and leave a casserole at the door.”

THE GENERAL STORE currently has a selection of Karin’s patriotic-themed ear baubles just in time for Independence Day! The beads used in this patriotic series include Swarovski crystals, ceramic beads, glass beads and glass faux pearls, semi-precious stones, Czech glass, wood, porcelain, plastic and all kinds of metals. Each selection is one of a kind (OK, they are earrings, each set does match!). At only $10, not only do you sport unique earbobs, but you help to support a local veteran. What’s not to love? Karin also does special requests for those hard-to-match outfits. Look for her at future First Friday events where she will be making her creations to order.