Tiki Cocktail! by Chris Coatstag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail/6062008-07-29T15:38:17ZChris CoatsMovable Type 4.1Dennis Quaid on a crusade to help kids.tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3731672008-07-29T15:21:40Z2008-07-29T15:38:17Z I've interviewed Dennis Quaid several times even riding with him on a golf cart as he played in his charity golf tournament in Austin. He is really a great down to earth guy. So it doesn't surprise me that...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
I've interviewed Dennis Quaid several times even riding with him on a golf cart as he played in his charity golf tournament in Austin. He is really a great down to earth guy. So it doesn't surprise me that he is on a mission to ensure that other kids do not go through the same plight as his infant twins did by being dangerously and erroneously overmedicated.
Here he is visiting patient, Kaitlen Bell, 7, at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. The actor just autographed a copy of her favorite movie, "The Parent Trap" while her amazing clinical team (background) and parents Sylvia and Jerald Bell (right) look on.
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Read on to find out more about his visit courtesy of Children's Medical Center of Dallas...
Dennis Quaid at the news conference with Pamela Arora, Children's CIO, in background.
Film star Dennis Quaid was in front of the cameras for a different reason Tuesday, July 22. He was at Children's for a press conference to speak on medication errors and to raise public awareness of the need for the United States medical system as a whole to adopt state-of-the-art medication safety systems such as the one at Children's, which was again recently named one of the "Most Wired" hospitals in the country.
The press conference followed a tour by Quaid and his wife Kimberly of the medication verification safety system, where he met with a patient, Kaitlen Bell, and her parents Sylvia and Jerald, along with physicians and clinicians who are involved in many patient and medication safety initiatives.
The Quaids toured Children's as part of his public awareness campaign following the near fatal medication error to their infant twins after their admission to a Los Angeles hospital for a staph infection; they were mistakenly given massive overdoses of heparin.
"That mistake could have been avoided if they had a system in place" like Children's Medical Center does, Quaid said. He likened the medication verification system at Children's to the aviation industry's safety innovations of "auto-pilot, color-coded radar and GPS," calling the medication safety verification system "a back-up that saves lives."
"Our goal and Children's is to reduce the impact of human error in a medical situation," Quaid told the media.
Children's is the first hospital the Quaids have toured following their children's medication error, which spurred the establishment of The Quaid Foundation, which is dedicated to "helping to minimize the impact of human error in patient medical care," the Web site www.thequaidfoundation.org states. "We also strive to make the public aware of which medical facilities are vigilant about operating at the highest standard, so that patients may make a more informed decision as to where to receive their medical care."
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Back from a roadtrip!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3731462008-07-29T15:05:16Z2008-07-29T15:16:43Z Back from a roadtrip that was a combination of working on lots of fun stories and meeting new people, and tons of good times with my family! More details and blogging to come!...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Back from a roadtrip that was a combination of working on lots of fun stories and meeting new people, and tons of good times with my family! More details and blogging to come!]]>
Artist Amanda Dunbar's Precious Rebels in the 2008 Neiman Marcus Holiday Booktag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3486362008-07-14T19:25:23Z2008-07-14T19:39:48Z My pal and the youngest inductee into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame, Amanda Dunbar has great news to share! The artist's Precious Rebels blinged guitars will be a featured item in the 2008 Neiman Marcus Holiday catalog. Check...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
My pal and the youngest inductee into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame, Amanda Dunbar has great news to share! The artist's Precious Rebels blinged guitars will be a featured item in the 2008 Neiman Marcus Holiday catalog. Check out the press release from Dunbar Studios on the exciting details...]]>
Dunbar Studios will produce 3 exclusive limited edition collections of our Swarovski crystal clad guitars for the Neiman Marcus Holiday Book 2008. We have chosen 3 styles of guitars, one from Fender, one from Gibson and one from Paul Reed Smith for the editions. All are custom instruments with custom hardware and electronics. Amanda remains our lead artist and designer. She has been directing the entire art project which will be a small part of a larger exhibition. (News on that to come soon) Ken has been assembling the custom electronics and hardware for the project while Judi has been assisting Amanda with the designs, the design transfer processes and in applying the crystals. The Neiman Marcus exclusive editions will contain 5 guitars per design which will be marketed worldwide in the Neiman Marcus Holiday Book 2008. The Book 2008 is scheduled to be released in the fall. (Each guitar has over 5000 crystals to be applied by hand one at a time) We will be placing orders with the manufacturers for various custom instruments soon. Feel free to visit www.PreciousRebels.com to browse some of the designs that are currently available or use them as a guide to design your own personalized art guitar.]]>
Jonas Brothers Fun!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3392242008-07-10T13:53:25Z2008-07-11T14:22:11Z A big shoutout to my friend, Felicia Culotta who is the assistant to the Jonas Brothers! She was in town with the boys for their concert. Here is my daughter and her friend with the JB's thrilled to meet...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
A big shoutout to my friend, Felicia Culotta who is the assistant to the Jonas Brothers! She was in town with the boys for their concert. Here is my daughter and her friend with the JB's thrilled to meet them!]]>
It was great to see Fe. She is one of those special people that you feel so lucky to have in your life. She has a heart of gold and is a God loving person. Heart ya, Fe!
I know the thousands that were there enjoyed the concert. Big "hello" to new friends I met in whatever line I was standing in, like Juana, the mom who at the last minute was able to get some lawn seats for her 6-year-old daughter and three nieces.
"We're not able to afford to go anywhere this summer for vacation," said the working mom. "So I decided to splurge and let this be our vacation."
What a mom!
And what a concert!! The boys are great role models in so many ways and have some great fans who love them!
What a catch!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3392392008-07-09T14:23:39Z2008-07-11T14:28:11Z Congrats to my newfound friend, 9-year-old Matthew Ord (left) and his brother, Andrew. Matthew told me about his recent fishing trip he took with his little bro and dad, Bart to Lake Texoma. The good news is that they...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Congrats to my newfound friend, 9-year-old Matthew Ord (left) and his brother, Andrew. Matthew told me about his recent fishing trip he took with his little bro and dad, Bart to Lake Texoma. The good news is that they each caught a fish right off the bat! The bad news, Matthew spent most of the trip sea sick and throwing up. Don't worry though. He promised to stay in touch and let us know of his future fishing expeditions!]]>
Tryouts to be a Mavs Dancertag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3377592008-07-07T19:21:27Z2008-07-11T14:42:14ZDo you have what it takes???? Visit www.mavs.com for more information!...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Do you have what it takes???? Visit www.mavs.com for more information!
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Women in Film Dallas Short Film Showcasetag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3377712008-07-04T19:38:55Z2008-07-07T19:43:41Z Girl Power!! Check out this great film event hosted by the Women in Film Dallas!...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Girl Power!! Check out this great film event hosted by the Women in Film Dallas!]]>
BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WOMEN IN FILM.DALLAS PRESENTS THE 3RD ANNUAL SHORT FILM SHOWCASE CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Women In Film.Dallas is proud to announce a special screening of the 3rd Annual Short Film Showcase Celebrating International Women's Day Tuesday, July 8th. One night only, WIF.D will be featuring a compilation of nine outstanding short films by nine extraordinary female directors culled from over forty finalist selections submitted by WIFTI and Film Festival Partners.
This showcase originally aired nationwide back in March in conjunction with International Women's Day and at a time when WIF.D was presenting their 2008 Topaz Awards Gala. So as not to miss out on this one-of-a-kind screening, the Dallas Chapter asked for and was granted special permission to showcase this collection of fabulous films at a later date.
"International Women's Day commemorates achievements, acts of courage and determination by ordinary women. What better way for WIFT members and the film loving public to celebrate than with a screening of the world's best short films by and about women?" comments Paulina Abarca-Cantin, Founding Producer of Women in Film and Television International's Short Film Showcase.
Together, the nine short films finalists in the Showcase have garnered over fifty international awards including Official Selection: Shorts Competition, Festival de Cannes France 2006 and Winner: Creative Excellence Award at the Melbourne International Film Festival for Denie Pentecost's SEXY THING; Winner: Best Live Action Short under 15 mins: Palm Springs International Short Film Festival 2007 for Sophie Barthes' HAPPINESS; Official Selection : Palm Springs International Shorts Festival 2007 for star on the rise Bryce Dallas Howard's (Spider-Man 3, As You Like It) ORCHIDS; Winner: Best Short Documentary and Best Emerging Director: 2006 New Zealand International Documentary Film Festival for Kirsty MacDonald's BLACK AND WHITE; Winner: Special Jury Prize at the Funchal Film Festival, Portugal for Susan Jacobson's ONE HUNDREDTH OF A SECOND; Audience Award for Best Short Film at the Brooklyn Film Festival USA 2007 for Valeria Ruiz's A MOMENT; Winner: Gold Remi Award: WorldFest Houston USA, 2007 for Genevieve Poulette's MEET-MARKET.CA; Winner: Best Cinematography Prize - UCLA Directors' Spotlight at the DGA, USA for Michelle Hung's CHINESE DUMPLINGS and Official Selection: Films de Femmes, Créteil and St. John's International Women's Festival for Kate Jessop's stunning short DESIRES.
This special evening will begin with a casual gathering and networking opportunity for all at 6:30 pm with the screening beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door at the Studio Movie Grill in Addison at 5404 Beltline Rd., Dallas, TX 75248. Everyone is invited! WIF.D Members are only $5.00 and all other film-lovers are $10.00.
For more information about this event, please visit www.wifdallas.org
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Women in Film.Dallas (WIF.D) is part of a global community committed to empower, promote and mentor its membership in film, television and new media. WIF.D, a non-profit organization of women and men, provides educational forums, opportunities for advancement, and networking for entry-level positions and established professionals within the entertainment industry.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WomenInFilm.Dallas
www.wifdallas.org
2600 Stemmons Fwy, Ste. 117
Dallas, TX 75207
Ph: 214-954-4488
Team Tejas Climb for Cancertag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3377752008-07-01T19:46:40Z2008-07-07T19:55:26Z A big shoutout to Team Tejas who recently completed the 50-50-1 Climb for Cancer. Here's an article I wrote for readers to learn even more about this incredible team!...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
A big shoutout to Team Tejas who recently completed the 50-50-1 Climb for Cancer. Here's an article I wrote for readers to learn even more about this incredible team!]]>
Team from Texas joins climbers in fundraiser for cancer cure
12:30 PM CDT on Tuesday, July 1, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
After seeing family members and close friends diagnosed and dying of cancer, Matthew Pirtle of Frisco wanted to help find a cure.
The foundation challenges climbers, from weekend novices to professionals, to form teams to conquer the tallest peak in their state to raise money for research and patient services, said Dianne Farb, the nonprofit's co-founder.
"It's honoring the people we lost but also those fighting the disease," said Mr. Pirtle, a Frisco account executive. "I want to raise every dime to get this kicked but to also challenge myself to do it by reaching new heights."
The climbs are taking place throughout June. Ten teams nationwide signed up, raising more than $40,000, Ms. Farb said. The group includes Mr. Pirtle, who recruited family members and friends Bobby Johnson, Gary Marines, Todd Metten and Brett Smith to form Team Tejas.
Team Tejas raised more than $6,000 from friends and co-workers, and on Saturday the group will tackle Guadalupe Peak. With its peak at nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, it's the tallest formation in the state, located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas.
"I've climbed, but I'm not an expert," Mr. Pirtle said. "Guadalupe Peak is very achievable for weekend warriors. I recruited a group of guys with a love for the outdoors and charity."
The team has been training for the past few months, either biking or climbing whatever hills or trails they can find to get in shape. To climb the peak, Team Tejas will take a 4.25 mile trail amid rocky terrain and cacti.
Bobby Johnson, Mr. Pirtle's brother-in-law, feels that any aches that they've experienced training or even discomfort during the climb is nothing in comparison to what cancer patients endure. He said they are a source of inspiration.
"It's their fighting attitude that you take on the mountain," he said. "Whether it's climbing mountains or fighting for your life, it's their impressive will to never give up."
Myra Rooney, hairstylist for Mr. Pirtle and for Mr. Johnson's mother, beat ovarian cancer four years ago. Recently, however, the cancer returned in her colon and abdomen. Mr. Pirtle let her know that their climb is dedicated to her and other loved ones.
"I feel so honored that they're doing this and going to this extreme to raise money for more research to be done," she said. "I thanked them from the bottom of my heart."
Friends are already coming forward to join next year's climb. The team has set its goals high looking at conquering the Grand Tetons or Mount Rainer.
"It's getting to the top of the mountain and remembering who we're climbing for," Mr. Pirtle said. "It's joining together to do our share in helping to save lives."
Class acts - two incredible women honored by their colleges.tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3015052008-06-23T14:14:18Z2008-07-11T14:40:26ZCongratulations to Mandi Brooks and Linsey Heidelberg. The two Dallas County Community College District students from Irving and Mesquite will be honored this week receiving the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Scholarshiip Award for overcoming physical and emotional challenges to suceed...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Congratulations to Mandi Brooks and Linsey Heidelberg. The two Dallas County Community College District students from Irving and Mesquite will be honored this week receiving the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Scholarshiip Award for overcoming physical and emotional challenges to suceed in school. Read about their incredible stories...
(Pictured above is Linsey, and below is Mandi.)
Mandi Brooks moved from state to state as a young child, following her mother and an abusive boyfriend, falling behind in school and living under desperate conditions at times.
By the age of 16, she struggled to catch up in school and began to dream about a normal life and college. The loss of her home after a fire and the illness of a
step-father who had become a "huge" part of her life added to the challenges she faced.
Linsey Heidelberg went from pom pons and football games to pain therapy
and crutches following a cheerleading accident at age 15. Faced with
the prospect of learning to walk again and battling RSD/CRPS (Reflex
Sympathetic Dystrophy/Complex Regional Pain Syndrome ) - an incurable
nerve disorder - she learned that the real heroes in her life weren't
football players, cheerleaders, the drill team or the band.
Brooks and Heidelberg battled adverse conditions in their lives and
sought to grow and improve themselves, in spite of those challenges.
Their successes will be recognized when they receive the 2008 Erin
Tierney Kramp Encouragement Scholarship Award during a special program
on Tues., June 24, at a local Dallas restaurant. The event will be
hosted by the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Foundation's board of
directors and the Dallas County Community College District Foundation.
The scholarships will help Brooks, a resident of Irving, and
Heidelberg, a resident of Mesquite, reach for their dreams with
financial support provided by the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement
Scholarship Award, which covers full tuition and books for up to four
semesters. Brooks is majoring in pre-medicine at North Lake College,
and Heidelberg is pursuing an associate's degree in Science at
Eastfield College.
The DCCCD Foundation and the Kramp Foundation also are renewing the
scholarship for last year's recipient, Dylan Lewis of Mesquite, who
attends Eastfield College and is majoring in business administration.
The courage and perseverance shown by both recipients in the face of
adversity are traits exhibited by the person for whom the award is
named. Erin Tierney Kramp, who fought breast cancer from 1994 to 1998,
created a videotaped legacy on "life lessons" for her young daughter
that would convey Erin's views and advice to Peyton as the young girl
grew up, following her mother's death. Erin touched many lives and
inspired countless strangers when she co-authored Living with the End in
Mind (with her husband and a family friend) and through appearances on
programs like 20/20 and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Her legacy lives on
through the Kramp Foundation, the DCCCD scholarship program and the
lives of all recipients.
"The Erin Tierney Kramp program awards scholarships to students based
on their courage and perseverance in the face of adversity," said
Michael Brown, president of the Erin Tierney Kramp Foundation. "We
see these qualities in Mandi and Linsey, who bravely survived their own
challenges and who plan to help others by going to college and preparing
for careers that will serve others. Their stories exemplify what our
past recipients have demonstrated repeatedly through Erin's legacy.
When individuals face adversity, the struggles that they endure will
either make them stronger or defeat them. Winning that battle requires
courage and perseverance. Mandi Brooks and Linsey Heidelberg have
proven they have both traits, and they truly deserve this honor. "
The daughter of a teenage mother, Brooks endured a nomadic life during
her early teen years, accompanied by an ex-convict who was her
mother's boyfriend; Mandi worked to help support the "family"
and trained race horses that they traveled with. Efforts at home
schooling fell behind, and mother and daughter literally escaped one
night and returned to their home town to start a new life. "I was
back in high school in my home town, but I was so lost and felt so out
of place," recalls Mandi. "Things had changed; it was so different,
and I had a hard time adjusting. But I had learned to be a fighter and
I was a determined person, so I decided to become more involved in
school."
Brooks joined Future Farmers of America, Future Christians of America,
the school choir and the National Honor Society. She became an "A"
student, played soccer and softball, ran track and became the school
mascot her sophomore year. Sadly, her step-father was diagnosed with
stomach cancer during her first year in college and currently is
battling brain cancer, and Mandi had to start her life again from
scratch after her family's house burned to the ground. Since then,
she has participated in a church youth group leadership program;
assisted as a camp instructor; and has been involved in a program
working as an aide for mentally disabled children.
Brooks remains determined to succeed, however, and to become a doctor -
perhaps specializing in anesthesiology (she hasn't decided just yet).
Life has taught Mandi not to give up. She says, "Things get tough,
and I've learned never to give up and never quit - use your trials and
tribulations for the good and not the bad. Always remember that you
have the choice to let it make you or break you."
In comparison, Heidelberg started her high school experience on a high
note as a level 7 gymnast and a three-time All-American Cheerleader.
She recalls, "2-4-6-8...Who do we appreciate? The football team,
cheerleaders, drill team and the band. Unaware of the life changes I
was about to endure, I would soon discover who the real heroes in my
life were." Those heroes would become doctors, physical therapists,
family members and friends who have supported Linsey from the time of
her debilitating cheerleading injury at age 15 - when she was diagnosed
with a incurable nerve disorder (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy/Complex
Regional Pain Syndrome) after undergoing surgery to repair her her
fractured L4 vertebra. She struggled with pain, related seizures, a
left leg that no longer functioned, wheelchairs, tests, medical
procedures and treatments that did little to ease her pain.
By her 17th birthday, Linsey was able to return to school and walk with
the aid of weekly nerve treatments crutches. Today, she is an officer
for Phi Theta Kappa's chapter at Eastfield, and she volunteers as a
Sunday school church leader in the pre-school department. Her plans
include graduating from Eastfield College and transferring to Texas
Woman's University, where she will pursue a doctorate in physical
therapy. As a summer volunteer at the Baylor Tom Landry Center for two
years, she has assisted with physical therapy for patients and has
shared the difficulties they faced. Linsey currently works as a
licensed therapeutic massage therapist.
She says, "Who do I appreciate? The real heroes I became dependent
on for two years were not the friends who forgot about me after the
accident. My heroes are the doctors, the skilled therapists, my family
and friends and, last but not least, the patients who suffer from
painful diseases like RSD. I also consider myself among my heroes
because I never gave up. I trusted God where I could not trace him."
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Miss Sadie's Blueberry Crunch Cake - a perfect summertime treat!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3009112008-06-19T21:05:27Z2008-06-19T21:17:01Z It's summer! And my dear friend, Miss Sadie Bomar (aka Justin Timberlake's grandma) has bushes full of blueberries at her home in Tennessee that will be ripe for the pickin' in a month, she said. So she thought she'd...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
It's summer! And my dear friend, Miss Sadie Bomar (aka Justin Timberlake's grandma) has bushes full of blueberries at her home in Tennessee that will be ripe for the pickin' in a month, she said. So she thought she'd share another recipe with Tiki readers for one her favorite summertime or anytime recipes, Blueberry Crunch Cake. I guarantee that you'll love it and it will be a hit to take to any get together! Enjoy!]]>
Miss Sadie's Blueberry Crunch Cake
Ingredients
• 1 tall can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 3 cups blueberries
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 stick butter, melted
• another 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• another 2 tablespoons margarine, melted
• another 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Directions per Miss Sadie...
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Take a stick of butter and use it to butter a 9x13 cake pan. Pour the pineapple into baking dish. Melt a tablespoon of butter and mix the blueberries in it. Next mix the blueberries in sugar. The butter will help the sugar stick to the blueberries. Pour the blueberries over the pineapple.
Buy any brand of dry yellow cake mix and mix in a ½ cup of chopped pecans. Sprinkle the cake mix and pecan mixture over the blueberries.
Melt a stick of butter and drizzle it over the top of the cake mix.
Mix a 1 cup of pecans with a tablespoon of melted butter. Mix the pecans with ¼ cup of sugar. The sugar sticks easier to the buttery pecans. Sprinkle the buttery sugary pecans over the top of the cake mix.
Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. "I stick a little knife down in the center of it to see if it comes out clean and that means it is done," said Miss Sadie. "Depending on your oven it may take 10 minutes longer. But you don't want it to cook too long or it will seem hard."
Miss Sadie says the juice from the berries is absorbed into the cake.
"It's delicious," she said.
We believe you Miss Sadie!
Plano feeds metroplex kids during the summertag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.3004832008-06-18T19:22:15Z2008-06-18T19:32:50Z The city of Plano has a program they started 15 years ago where they feed kids up to 18 years of age lunch during the summer. It stemmed from their need to ensure that those kids on free or...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
The city of Plano has a program they started 15 years ago where they feed kids up to 18 years of age lunch during the summer. It stemmed from their need to ensure that those kids on free or reduced lunches still got the one meal a day they counted on during the school year. Anyone around the metroplex can feed their kids - no questions or hassles since it is part of the Texas Department of Agriculture's Summer Nutrition Program. Check out the story and the details on this wonderful way the city is feeding kids!]]>
Plano dishes out free lunches all summer
12:00 AM CDT on Sunday, June 15, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
Jim Mergen stood at the end of a cafeteria line handing out cartons of milk to a crowd of mostly children walking by with trays of food. He did a quick line count.
Last week, the city of Plano kicked off its Summer Lunch Program, where kids up to 18 years of age can eat for free. Mr. Mergen, recreation superintendent, oversees the program, which operates out of the Williams High School cafeteria.
Last year, the program dished out more than 17,000 meals, prepared by Plano school district cafeteria employees. Now in its 15th year, the program started from the city's desire to provide lunches for youths, Mr. Mergen said.
The food and staff are provided by the Plano school district. But the district is reimbursed by the city, which receives funding for the program from the Texas Department of Agriculture's summer nutrition program, Mr. Mergen said. The program is open to the public.
"Plano cares about kids," said Karen Johnson, director of the Plano Boys & Girls Club, which brings over 150 kids daily. "Kids would be going hungry without this program."
Kids with and without parents come from Plano and other areas. Even though lunchtime is 11:30 a.m., customers line up thirty minutes early.
Some see the program as a need, but others see it as a fun summertime outing.
"We'll go swimming or to the library first," said Chinh Ngo of Richardson, who came with her children and friends. "We come every year. The kids get so excited to come."
Kenneth Bentley, recreational coordinator at adjoining Williams Recreation Center, is a big-brother figure to many of the kids. He provides crafts, board games, and plenty of pickup games of kickball and basketball.
"A lot of these kids can't afford to go to summer camps," he said. "We're not only feeding them but getting ones who are alone or parked in front of a TV out of the house."
The lunch bunch will also be entertained during the summer with puppet shows, jugglers, magicians, and clowns. But the big draw is the cafeteria chow. Joel Bethke, 9, of Plano recommends the pizza sticks and gelatin dessert.
On Wednesday, Quynh-Anh Dang, 9, polished off her chili dog.
"The food is awesome," she said. "I could eat here every day."
Mr. Bentley believes good food makes happy taste "buds."
"This program is instilling a sense of community and bringing people together," he said. "It's kids meeting and making buddies. It just so happens to start at a cafeteria."
Senator Florence Shapiro Receives Presidential Appointmenttag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.2992142008-06-14T03:45:46Z2008-07-11T14:38:20ZCongratulations to our friend, Senator Florence Shapiro for her appointment to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. Read the following press release for more details......Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Congratulations to our friend, Senator Florence Shapiro for her appointment to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. Read the following press release for more details...
The White House announced today that President Bush will be appointing Senator Shapiro to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, for the remainder of a five-year term expiring January 15, 2010.
Senator Shapiro is honored by the appointment saying, "President Bush knows of my family heritage and our story during and after the Holocaust. This honor brings my parents' life full circle."
The Council oversees the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The Museum is dedicated to documenting, studying, and interpreting the history of the Holocaust. It also serves as the nation's official memorial to the millions of European Jews and others killed during the Holocaust under directives of Nazi Germany.
For more information on the Museum and its Council, visit USHMM online.
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Miss Nancy gets crafty for Dad!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.2950292008-06-13T16:00:51Z2008-06-13T16:09:17Z Miss Nancy comes through again with another winning craft that she's making with her special little friends at Children's Medical Center Dallas for them to give to good ol' dad for Father's Day. Check out the instructions below so...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Miss Nancy comes through again with another winning craft that she's making with her special little friends at Children's Medical Center Dallas for them to give to good ol' dad for Father's Day. Check out the instructions below so you can make one to give to Dad this Sunday or even as a belated gift! Thanks, Miss Nancy!!]]>
From left to right: Salvadora Banuelos (Mother), Rafael Garcia(3 y/o, Patient).
Photo credit: Louis E. Curtis.
Dad's Key Keeper
What you'll need:
5x7 wood plaque
sandpaper
soft coth
light blue acrylic paint
paintbrush
pencil
bright blue pen
old newspapers
3 gold-tone cup hooks, ½ inch each
10 assorted coins, charms or medallions, between ½ inch and 1 ½ inches diameter
low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
2 soda can tabs
Instructions:
1. Lightly sand the wood plaque; wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Paint the surface with light blue paint. Let dry, then apply a second coat.
2. Using a pencil lightly print the words "Dad's Keys" on the plaque. Trace the pencil lines with the paint pen. (Hint: Add small dots to the beginning and end of each letter for a fun style.) If the plaque has a raised edge, outline the edge with the paint marker. Place the plaque outside on old newspapers.
3. Ask an adult to help you screw the 3 cup hooks into the wood evenly spaced, about 1 inch up from the bottom of the plaque. Arrange the assorted coins, charms, or medallions on the plaque. When you're happy with the design, glue them in place.
4. To hang the plaque, glue 2 soda can tabs to the back of the plaque so the loops of the tabs will hang on the nails in the wall. Give to your dad on Father's Day or any day of the year!]]>
Summerfest at Gaylord Texan!tag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.2950212008-06-13T15:40:34Z2008-06-13T15:54:57Z Looking for a great getaway this summer? Couples and families head to the Gaylord Texan for a fabulous vacation right here in DFW. They have tons of free entertainment strolling the grounds, an incredible fireworks display, and lot of...Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Looking for a great getaway this summer? Couples and families head to the Gaylord Texan for a fabulous vacation right here in DFW. They have tons of free entertainment strolling the grounds, an incredible fireworks display, and lot of other ways to keep yourself entertained at this fab resort. Check out the info below from Gaylord on Summerfest taking place right now through August.]]>
SummerFest 2008 runs through August 31st, 2008, and includes a variety of live entertainment and culinary programs including Indoor Firework Shows, "Taste of the Texan" culinary tasting event, Glass Cactus "Summer Nights" Concert Series, Junior Chefs Camp for Kids, Outdoor Pool Parties and Dive-In Movies, Rock Art Show, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, and Wine & Cheese Pairings. Live Entertainers will be found strolling throughout the resort atriums on Friday including Fire Twirlers, The Gold Cowboy, Jugglers, and a Living Vine!!
For locals who wish to save on travel expenses and "vacation in their own backyard," Gaylord Texan's special two-night SummerFest Room Package, beginning at $199 per night, offers guests $50 CASH AT CHECK-IN to use however they wish! The package includes luxury resort room accommodations, breakfast for two adults and two children in Riverwalk Café, self-parking, and resort fee. Packages are subject to change and availability.
As a refresher, local visitors who spend $25 or more in the resort restaurants, retails stores, or spa will receive complimentary parking validation.
For more information on Gaylord Texan's SummerFest 2008 event, please visit www.gaylordtexan.com or call (817) 778-1000.
Mike Modano's 2008 Reebok Heroes Celebrity Baseball Gametag:www.beloblog.com,2008:/tikicocktail//606.2950092008-06-13T15:23:34Z2008-06-13T15:34:38Z Mike Modano has a big heart. Check out his upcoming celebrity baseball game and ways you can get tickets to this all-star event benefiting various children's charities....Chris Coatshttp://www.beloblog.com/tikicocktail
Mike Modano has a big heart. Check out his upcoming celebrity baseball game and ways you can get tickets to this all-star event benefiting various children's charities.]]>
Frisco charity ballgame helps kids' dreams take flight, brings hope to countless others
12:00 AM CDT on Thursday, June 12, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
When 12-year-old Ivan Rodriguez steps onto the Whataburger Little Heroes Baseball Field at Pike Park, it becomes his field of dreams.
The star-studded event will feature sports personalities in the team lineups, including Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys, and TV stars such as Dave Annable of Brothers & Sisters.
Proceeds benefit the Children's Charities of the Heroes Foundation and the Mike Modano Foundation. More than $3 million has been raised to fund projects such as a children's cottage for abused and neglected children and sports leagues for inner-city kids.
"I live in Dallas year-round, I love it and call it my home," Mr. Modano said. "I'll do anything I can to help our communities to be a better place for kids growing up."
Mr. Modano and his financial manager, Charlie McKinney, came up with the idea for the celebrity baseball game. Proceeds from the first event were used to start a recreational baseball league called Little Heroes working with Dallas recreation centers.
Players receive free uniforms and equipment, Mr. McKinney said. Games are played at the Little Heroes field along with Dallas recreation fields. Thousands of youngsters have gone through the program, and 700 will play ball this summer.
"When kids are not in school, idle time can be dangerous time," Mr. McKinney said. "Sports programs keep kids busy and bring coaches into their lives as instant mentors."
A supporter from the start is Mr. Cuban, who said he's bringing his "new bionic hip" - courtesy of last year's hip replacement surgery - as his strength for this year's game.
"No one has seen the new bionic Mark Cuban," he said. "But I wouldn't miss the game regardless. It supports great organizations which are important to me."
At the game, fans can get up close and personal with some of their favorite sports celebrities starting at 2 p.m. with a tailgate party, followed by a home run derby. The game begins at 6 p.m.
Maria Garza, recreation specialist at Pike Park Recreation Center, will bring a van full of Little Heroes league players whom she coaches.
"A lot of these kids wouldn't be able to afford to play baseball, let alone go to a game," she said. "They see the players and leave inspired, believing anything is possible."
If you go...
What: 2008 Reebok Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game
Where: Dr. Pepper Ballpark in Frisco (7300 Rough Riders Trail)
When: Saturday, June 28
Tickets: $5-$15 and can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 214-373-8000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com or at the ballpark box office during office hours.
I've interviewed Dennis Quaid several times even riding with him on a golf cart as he played in his charity golf tournament in Austin. He is really a great down to earth guy. So it doesn't surprise me that he is on a mission to ensure that other kids do not go through the same plight as his infant twins did by being dangerously and erroneously overmedicated.
Here he is visiting patient, Kaitlen Bell, 7, at Children's Medical Center in Dallas. The actor just autographed a copy of her favorite movie, "The Parent Trap" while her amazing clinical team (background) and parents Sylvia and Jerald Bell (right) look on.
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Read on to find out more about his visit courtesy of Children's Medical Center of Dallas...
Dennis Quaid at the news conference with Pamela Arora, Children's CIO, in background.
Film star Dennis Quaid was in front of the cameras for a different reason Tuesday, July 22. He was at Children's for a press conference to speak on medication errors and to raise public awareness of the need for the United States medical system as a whole to adopt state-of-the-art medication safety systems such as the one at Children's, which was again recently named one of the "Most Wired" hospitals in the country.
The press conference followed a tour by Quaid and his wife Kimberly of the medication verification safety system, where he met with a patient, Kaitlen Bell, and her parents Sylvia and Jerald, along with physicians and clinicians who are involved in many patient and medication safety initiatives.
The Quaids toured Children's as part of his public awareness campaign following the near fatal medication error to their infant twins after their admission to a Los Angeles hospital for a staph infection; they were mistakenly given massive overdoses of heparin.
"That mistake could have been avoided if they had a system in place" like Children's Medical Center does, Quaid said. He likened the medication verification system at Children's to the aviation industry's safety innovations of "auto-pilot, color-coded radar and GPS," calling the medication safety verification system "a back-up that saves lives."
"Our goal and Children's is to reduce the impact of human error in a medical situation," Quaid told the media.
Children's is the first hospital the Quaids have toured following their children's medication error, which spurred the establishment of The Quaid Foundation, which is dedicated to "helping to minimize the impact of human error in patient medical care," the Web site www.thequaidfoundation.org states. "We also strive to make the public aware of which medical facilities are vigilant about operating at the highest standard, so that patients may make a more informed decision as to where to receive their medical care."
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Back from a roadtrip that was a combination of working on lots of fun stories and meeting new people, and tons of good times with my family! More details and blogging to come!]]>
My pal and the youngest inductee into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame, Amanda Dunbar has great news to share! The artist's Precious Rebels blinged guitars will be a featured item in the 2008 Neiman Marcus Holiday catalog. Check out the press release from Dunbar Studios on the exciting details...]]>
Dunbar Studios will produce 3 exclusive limited edition collections of our Swarovski crystal clad guitars for the Neiman Marcus Holiday Book 2008. We have chosen 3 styles of guitars, one from Fender, one from Gibson and one from Paul Reed Smith for the editions. All are custom instruments with custom hardware and electronics. Amanda remains our lead artist and designer. She has been directing the entire art project which will be a small part of a larger exhibition. (News on that to come soon) Ken has been assembling the custom electronics and hardware for the project while Judi has been assisting Amanda with the designs, the design transfer processes and in applying the crystals. The Neiman Marcus exclusive editions will contain 5 guitars per design which will be marketed worldwide in the Neiman Marcus Holiday Book 2008. The Book 2008 is scheduled to be released in the fall. (Each guitar has over 5000 crystals to be applied by hand one at a time) We will be placing orders with the manufacturers for various custom instruments soon. Feel free to visit www.PreciousRebels.com to browse some of the designs that are currently available or use them as a guide to design your own personalized art guitar.]]>
A big shoutout to my friend, Felicia Culotta who is the assistant to the Jonas Brothers! She was in town with the boys for their concert. Here is my daughter and her friend with the JB's thrilled to meet them!]]>
It was great to see Fe. She is one of those special people that you feel so lucky to have in your life. She has a heart of gold and is a God loving person. Heart ya, Fe!
I know the thousands that were there enjoyed the concert. Big "hello" to new friends I met in whatever line I was standing in, like Juana, the mom who at the last minute was able to get some lawn seats for her 6-year-old daughter and three nieces.
"We're not able to afford to go anywhere this summer for vacation," said the working mom. "So I decided to splurge and let this be our vacation."
What a mom!
And what a concert!! The boys are great role models in so many ways and have some great fans who love them!
Congrats to my newfound friend, 9-year-old Matthew Ord (left) and his brother, Andrew. Matthew told me about his recent fishing trip he took with his little bro and dad, Bart to Lake Texoma. The good news is that they each caught a fish right off the bat! The bad news, Matthew spent most of the trip sea sick and throwing up. Don't worry though. He promised to stay in touch and let us know of his future fishing expeditions!]]>
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Girl Power!! Check out this great film event hosted by the Women in Film Dallas!]]>
BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WOMEN IN FILM.DALLAS PRESENTS THE 3RD ANNUAL SHORT FILM SHOWCASE CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Women In Film.Dallas is proud to announce a special screening of the 3rd Annual Short Film Showcase Celebrating International Women's Day Tuesday, July 8th. One night only, WIF.D will be featuring a compilation of nine outstanding short films by nine extraordinary female directors culled from over forty finalist selections submitted by WIFTI and Film Festival Partners.
This showcase originally aired nationwide back in March in conjunction with International Women's Day and at a time when WIF.D was presenting their 2008 Topaz Awards Gala. So as not to miss out on this one-of-a-kind screening, the Dallas Chapter asked for and was granted special permission to showcase this collection of fabulous films at a later date.
"International Women's Day commemorates achievements, acts of courage and determination by ordinary women. What better way for WIFT members and the film loving public to celebrate than with a screening of the world's best short films by and about women?" comments Paulina Abarca-Cantin, Founding Producer of Women in Film and Television International's Short Film Showcase.
Together, the nine short films finalists in the Showcase have garnered over fifty international awards including Official Selection: Shorts Competition, Festival de Cannes France 2006 and Winner: Creative Excellence Award at the Melbourne International Film Festival for Denie Pentecost's SEXY THING; Winner: Best Live Action Short under 15 mins: Palm Springs International Short Film Festival 2007 for Sophie Barthes' HAPPINESS; Official Selection : Palm Springs International Shorts Festival 2007 for star on the rise Bryce Dallas Howard's (Spider-Man 3, As You Like It) ORCHIDS; Winner: Best Short Documentary and Best Emerging Director: 2006 New Zealand International Documentary Film Festival for Kirsty MacDonald's BLACK AND WHITE; Winner: Special Jury Prize at the Funchal Film Festival, Portugal for Susan Jacobson's ONE HUNDREDTH OF A SECOND; Audience Award for Best Short Film at the Brooklyn Film Festival USA 2007 for Valeria Ruiz's A MOMENT; Winner: Gold Remi Award: WorldFest Houston USA, 2007 for Genevieve Poulette's MEET-MARKET.CA; Winner: Best Cinematography Prize - UCLA Directors' Spotlight at the DGA, USA for Michelle Hung's CHINESE DUMPLINGS and Official Selection: Films de Femmes, Créteil and St. John's International Women's Festival for Kate Jessop's stunning short DESIRES.
This special evening will begin with a casual gathering and networking opportunity for all at 6:30 pm with the screening beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door at the Studio Movie Grill in Addison at 5404 Beltline Rd., Dallas, TX 75248. Everyone is invited! WIF.D Members are only $5.00 and all other film-lovers are $10.00.
For more information about this event, please visit www.wifdallas.org
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Women in Film.Dallas (WIF.D) is part of a global community committed to empower, promote and mentor its membership in film, television and new media. WIF.D, a non-profit organization of women and men, provides educational forums, opportunities for advancement, and networking for entry-level positions and established professionals within the entertainment industry.
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WomenInFilm.Dallas
www.wifdallas.org
2600 Stemmons Fwy, Ste. 117
Dallas, TX 75207
Ph: 214-954-4488
A big shoutout to Team Tejas who recently completed the 50-50-1 Climb for Cancer. Here's an article I wrote for readers to learn even more about this incredible team!]]>
Team from Texas joins climbers in fundraiser for cancer cure
12:30 PM CDT on Tuesday, July 1, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
After seeing family members and close friends diagnosed and dying of cancer, Matthew Pirtle of Frisco wanted to help find a cure.
The foundation challenges climbers, from weekend novices to professionals, to form teams to conquer the tallest peak in their state to raise money for research and patient services, said Dianne Farb, the nonprofit's co-founder.
"It's honoring the people we lost but also those fighting the disease," said Mr. Pirtle, a Frisco account executive. "I want to raise every dime to get this kicked but to also challenge myself to do it by reaching new heights."
The climbs are taking place throughout June. Ten teams nationwide signed up, raising more than $40,000, Ms. Farb said. The group includes Mr. Pirtle, who recruited family members and friends Bobby Johnson, Gary Marines, Todd Metten and Brett Smith to form Team Tejas.
Team Tejas raised more than $6,000 from friends and co-workers, and on Saturday the group will tackle Guadalupe Peak. With its peak at nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, it's the tallest formation in the state, located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas.
"I've climbed, but I'm not an expert," Mr. Pirtle said. "Guadalupe Peak is very achievable for weekend warriors. I recruited a group of guys with a love for the outdoors and charity."
The team has been training for the past few months, either biking or climbing whatever hills or trails they can find to get in shape. To climb the peak, Team Tejas will take a 4.25 mile trail amid rocky terrain and cacti.
Bobby Johnson, Mr. Pirtle's brother-in-law, feels that any aches that they've experienced training or even discomfort during the climb is nothing in comparison to what cancer patients endure. He said they are a source of inspiration.
"It's their fighting attitude that you take on the mountain," he said. "Whether it's climbing mountains or fighting for your life, it's their impressive will to never give up."
Myra Rooney, hairstylist for Mr. Pirtle and for Mr. Johnson's mother, beat ovarian cancer four years ago. Recently, however, the cancer returned in her colon and abdomen. Mr. Pirtle let her know that their climb is dedicated to her and other loved ones.
"I feel so honored that they're doing this and going to this extreme to raise money for more research to be done," she said. "I thanked them from the bottom of my heart."
Friends are already coming forward to join next year's climb. The team has set its goals high looking at conquering the Grand Tetons or Mount Rainer.
"It's getting to the top of the mountain and remembering who we're climbing for," Mr. Pirtle said. "It's joining together to do our share in helping to save lives."
(Pictured above is Linsey, and below is Mandi.)
Mandi Brooks moved from state to state as a young child, following her mother and an abusive boyfriend, falling behind in school and living under desperate conditions at times.
By the age of 16, she struggled to catch up in school and began to dream about a normal life and college. The loss of her home after a fire and the illness of a
step-father who had become a "huge" part of her life added to the challenges she faced.
Linsey Heidelberg went from pom pons and football games to pain therapy
and crutches following a cheerleading accident at age 15. Faced with
the prospect of learning to walk again and battling RSD/CRPS (Reflex
Sympathetic Dystrophy/Complex Regional Pain Syndrome ) - an incurable
nerve disorder - she learned that the real heroes in her life weren't
football players, cheerleaders, the drill team or the band.
Brooks and Heidelberg battled adverse conditions in their lives and
sought to grow and improve themselves, in spite of those challenges.
Their successes will be recognized when they receive the 2008 Erin
Tierney Kramp Encouragement Scholarship Award during a special program
on Tues., June 24, at a local Dallas restaurant. The event will be
hosted by the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement Foundation's board of
directors and the Dallas County Community College District Foundation.
The scholarships will help Brooks, a resident of Irving, and
Heidelberg, a resident of Mesquite, reach for their dreams with
financial support provided by the Erin Tierney Kramp Encouragement
Scholarship Award, which covers full tuition and books for up to four
semesters. Brooks is majoring in pre-medicine at North Lake College,
and Heidelberg is pursuing an associate's degree in Science at
Eastfield College.
The DCCCD Foundation and the Kramp Foundation also are renewing the
scholarship for last year's recipient, Dylan Lewis of Mesquite, who
attends Eastfield College and is majoring in business administration.
The courage and perseverance shown by both recipients in the face of
adversity are traits exhibited by the person for whom the award is
named. Erin Tierney Kramp, who fought breast cancer from 1994 to 1998,
created a videotaped legacy on "life lessons" for her young daughter
that would convey Erin's views and advice to Peyton as the young girl
grew up, following her mother's death. Erin touched many lives and
inspired countless strangers when she co-authored Living with the End in
Mind (with her husband and a family friend) and through appearances on
programs like 20/20 and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Her legacy lives on
through the Kramp Foundation, the DCCCD scholarship program and the
lives of all recipients.
"The Erin Tierney Kramp program awards scholarships to students based
on their courage and perseverance in the face of adversity," said
Michael Brown, president of the Erin Tierney Kramp Foundation. "We
see these qualities in Mandi and Linsey, who bravely survived their own
challenges and who plan to help others by going to college and preparing
for careers that will serve others. Their stories exemplify what our
past recipients have demonstrated repeatedly through Erin's legacy.
When individuals face adversity, the struggles that they endure will
either make them stronger or defeat them. Winning that battle requires
courage and perseverance. Mandi Brooks and Linsey Heidelberg have
proven they have both traits, and they truly deserve this honor. "
The daughter of a teenage mother, Brooks endured a nomadic life during
her early teen years, accompanied by an ex-convict who was her
mother's boyfriend; Mandi worked to help support the "family"
and trained race horses that they traveled with. Efforts at home
schooling fell behind, and mother and daughter literally escaped one
night and returned to their home town to start a new life. "I was
back in high school in my home town, but I was so lost and felt so out
of place," recalls Mandi. "Things had changed; it was so different,
and I had a hard time adjusting. But I had learned to be a fighter and
I was a determined person, so I decided to become more involved in
school."
Brooks joined Future Farmers of America, Future Christians of America,
the school choir and the National Honor Society. She became an "A"
student, played soccer and softball, ran track and became the school
mascot her sophomore year. Sadly, her step-father was diagnosed with
stomach cancer during her first year in college and currently is
battling brain cancer, and Mandi had to start her life again from
scratch after her family's house burned to the ground. Since then,
she has participated in a church youth group leadership program;
assisted as a camp instructor; and has been involved in a program
working as an aide for mentally disabled children.
Brooks remains determined to succeed, however, and to become a doctor -
perhaps specializing in anesthesiology (she hasn't decided just yet).
Life has taught Mandi not to give up. She says, "Things get tough,
and I've learned never to give up and never quit - use your trials and
tribulations for the good and not the bad. Always remember that you
have the choice to let it make you or break you."
In comparison, Heidelberg started her high school experience on a high
note as a level 7 gymnast and a three-time All-American Cheerleader.
She recalls, "2-4-6-8...Who do we appreciate? The football team,
cheerleaders, drill team and the band. Unaware of the life changes I
was about to endure, I would soon discover who the real heroes in my
life were." Those heroes would become doctors, physical therapists,
family members and friends who have supported Linsey from the time of
her debilitating cheerleading injury at age 15 - when she was diagnosed
with a incurable nerve disorder (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy/Complex
Regional Pain Syndrome) after undergoing surgery to repair her her
fractured L4 vertebra. She struggled with pain, related seizures, a
left leg that no longer functioned, wheelchairs, tests, medical
procedures and treatments that did little to ease her pain.
By her 17th birthday, Linsey was able to return to school and walk with
the aid of weekly nerve treatments crutches. Today, she is an officer
for Phi Theta Kappa's chapter at Eastfield, and she volunteers as a
Sunday school church leader in the pre-school department. Her plans
include graduating from Eastfield College and transferring to Texas
Woman's University, where she will pursue a doctorate in physical
therapy. As a summer volunteer at the Baylor Tom Landry Center for two
years, she has assisted with physical therapy for patients and has
shared the difficulties they faced. Linsey currently works as a
licensed therapeutic massage therapist.
She says, "Who do I appreciate? The real heroes I became dependent
on for two years were not the friends who forgot about me after the
accident. My heroes are the doctors, the skilled therapists, my family
and friends and, last but not least, the patients who suffer from
painful diseases like RSD. I also consider myself among my heroes
because I never gave up. I trusted God where I could not trace him."
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It's summer! And my dear friend, Miss Sadie Bomar (aka Justin Timberlake's grandma) has bushes full of blueberries at her home in Tennessee that will be ripe for the pickin' in a month, she said. So she thought she'd share another recipe with Tiki readers for one her favorite summertime or anytime recipes, Blueberry Crunch Cake. I guarantee that you'll love it and it will be a hit to take to any get together! Enjoy!]]>
Miss Sadie's Blueberry Crunch Cake
Ingredients
• 1 tall can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 3 cups blueberries
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 stick butter, melted
• another 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• another 2 tablespoons margarine, melted
• another 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Directions per Miss Sadie...
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Take a stick of butter and use it to butter a 9x13 cake pan. Pour the pineapple into baking dish. Melt a tablespoon of butter and mix the blueberries in it. Next mix the blueberries in sugar. The butter will help the sugar stick to the blueberries. Pour the blueberries over the pineapple.
Buy any brand of dry yellow cake mix and mix in a ½ cup of chopped pecans. Sprinkle the cake mix and pecan mixture over the blueberries.
Melt a stick of butter and drizzle it over the top of the cake mix.
Mix a 1 cup of pecans with a tablespoon of melted butter. Mix the pecans with ¼ cup of sugar. The sugar sticks easier to the buttery pecans. Sprinkle the buttery sugary pecans over the top of the cake mix.
Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. "I stick a little knife down in the center of it to see if it comes out clean and that means it is done," said Miss Sadie. "Depending on your oven it may take 10 minutes longer. But you don't want it to cook too long or it will seem hard."
Miss Sadie says the juice from the berries is absorbed into the cake.
"It's delicious," she said.
We believe you Miss Sadie!
The city of Plano has a program they started 15 years ago where they feed kids up to 18 years of age lunch during the summer. It stemmed from their need to ensure that those kids on free or reduced lunches still got the one meal a day they counted on during the school year. Anyone around the metroplex can feed their kids - no questions or hassles since it is part of the Texas Department of Agriculture's Summer Nutrition Program. Check out the story and the details on this wonderful way the city is feeding kids!]]>
Plano dishes out free lunches all summer
12:00 AM CDT on Sunday, June 15, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
Jim Mergen stood at the end of a cafeteria line handing out cartons of milk to a crowd of mostly children walking by with trays of food. He did a quick line count.
Last week, the city of Plano kicked off its Summer Lunch Program, where kids up to 18 years of age can eat for free. Mr. Mergen, recreation superintendent, oversees the program, which operates out of the Williams High School cafeteria.
Last year, the program dished out more than 17,000 meals, prepared by Plano school district cafeteria employees. Now in its 15th year, the program started from the city's desire to provide lunches for youths, Mr. Mergen said.
The food and staff are provided by the Plano school district. But the district is reimbursed by the city, which receives funding for the program from the Texas Department of Agriculture's summer nutrition program, Mr. Mergen said. The program is open to the public.
"Plano cares about kids," said Karen Johnson, director of the Plano Boys & Girls Club, which brings over 150 kids daily. "Kids would be going hungry without this program."
Kids with and without parents come from Plano and other areas. Even though lunchtime is 11:30 a.m., customers line up thirty minutes early.
Some see the program as a need, but others see it as a fun summertime outing.
"We'll go swimming or to the library first," said Chinh Ngo of Richardson, who came with her children and friends. "We come every year. The kids get so excited to come."
Kenneth Bentley, recreational coordinator at adjoining Williams Recreation Center, is a big-brother figure to many of the kids. He provides crafts, board games, and plenty of pickup games of kickball and basketball.
"A lot of these kids can't afford to go to summer camps," he said. "We're not only feeding them but getting ones who are alone or parked in front of a TV out of the house."
The lunch bunch will also be entertained during the summer with puppet shows, jugglers, magicians, and clowns. But the big draw is the cafeteria chow. Joel Bethke, 9, of Plano recommends the pizza sticks and gelatin dessert.
On Wednesday, Quynh-Anh Dang, 9, polished off her chili dog.
"The food is awesome," she said. "I could eat here every day."
Mr. Bentley believes good food makes happy taste "buds."
"This program is instilling a sense of community and bringing people together," he said. "It's kids meeting and making buddies. It just so happens to start at a cafeteria."
The White House announced today that President Bush will be appointing Senator Shapiro to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, for the remainder of a five-year term expiring January 15, 2010.
Senator Shapiro is honored by the appointment saying, "President Bush knows of my family heritage and our story during and after the Holocaust. This honor brings my parents' life full circle."
The Council oversees the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The Museum is dedicated to documenting, studying, and interpreting the history of the Holocaust. It also serves as the nation's official memorial to the millions of European Jews and others killed during the Holocaust under directives of Nazi Germany.
For more information on the Museum and its Council, visit USHMM online.
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Miss Nancy comes through again with another winning craft that she's making with her special little friends at Children's Medical Center Dallas for them to give to good ol' dad for Father's Day. Check out the instructions below so you can make one to give to Dad this Sunday or even as a belated gift! Thanks, Miss Nancy!!]]>
From left to right: Salvadora Banuelos (Mother), Rafael Garcia(3 y/o, Patient).
Photo credit: Louis E. Curtis.
Dad's Key Keeper
What you'll need:
5x7 wood plaque
sandpaper
soft coth
light blue acrylic paint
paintbrush
pencil
bright blue pen
old newspapers
3 gold-tone cup hooks, ½ inch each
10 assorted coins, charms or medallions, between ½ inch and 1 ½ inches diameter
low-temperature glue gun and glue sticks
2 soda can tabs
Instructions:
1. Lightly sand the wood plaque; wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Paint the surface with light blue paint. Let dry, then apply a second coat.
2. Using a pencil lightly print the words "Dad's Keys" on the plaque. Trace the pencil lines with the paint pen. (Hint: Add small dots to the beginning and end of each letter for a fun style.) If the plaque has a raised edge, outline the edge with the paint marker. Place the plaque outside on old newspapers.
3. Ask an adult to help you screw the 3 cup hooks into the wood evenly spaced, about 1 inch up from the bottom of the plaque. Arrange the assorted coins, charms, or medallions on the plaque. When you're happy with the design, glue them in place.
4. To hang the plaque, glue 2 soda can tabs to the back of the plaque so the loops of the tabs will hang on the nails in the wall. Give to your dad on Father's Day or any day of the year!]]>
Looking for a great getaway this summer? Couples and families head to the Gaylord Texan for a fabulous vacation right here in DFW. They have tons of free entertainment strolling the grounds, an incredible fireworks display, and lot of other ways to keep yourself entertained at this fab resort. Check out the info below from Gaylord on Summerfest taking place right now through August.]]>
SummerFest 2008 runs through August 31st, 2008, and includes a variety of live entertainment and culinary programs including Indoor Firework Shows, "Taste of the Texan" culinary tasting event, Glass Cactus "Summer Nights" Concert Series, Junior Chefs Camp for Kids, Outdoor Pool Parties and Dive-In Movies, Rock Art Show, Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, and Wine & Cheese Pairings. Live Entertainers will be found strolling throughout the resort atriums on Friday including Fire Twirlers, The Gold Cowboy, Jugglers, and a Living Vine!!
For locals who wish to save on travel expenses and "vacation in their own backyard," Gaylord Texan's special two-night SummerFest Room Package, beginning at $199 per night, offers guests $50 CASH AT CHECK-IN to use however they wish! The package includes luxury resort room accommodations, breakfast for two adults and two children in Riverwalk Café, self-parking, and resort fee. Packages are subject to change and availability.
As a refresher, local visitors who spend $25 or more in the resort restaurants, retails stores, or spa will receive complimentary parking validation.
For more information on Gaylord Texan's SummerFest 2008 event, please visit www.gaylordtexan.com or call (817) 778-1000.
Mike Modano has a big heart. Check out his upcoming celebrity baseball game and ways you can get tickets to this all-star event benefiting various children's charities.]]>
Frisco charity ballgame helps kids' dreams take flight, brings hope to countless others
12:00 AM CDT on Thursday, June 12, 2008
By CHRIS COATS / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
When 12-year-old Ivan Rodriguez steps onto the Whataburger Little Heroes Baseball Field at Pike Park, it becomes his field of dreams.
The star-studded event will feature sports personalities in the team lineups, including Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, DeMarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys, and TV stars such as Dave Annable of Brothers & Sisters.
Proceeds benefit the Children's Charities of the Heroes Foundation and the Mike Modano Foundation. More than $3 million has been raised to fund projects such as a children's cottage for abused and neglected children and sports leagues for inner-city kids.
"I live in Dallas year-round, I love it and call it my home," Mr. Modano said. "I'll do anything I can to help our communities to be a better place for kids growing up."
Mr. Modano and his financial manager, Charlie McKinney, came up with the idea for the celebrity baseball game. Proceeds from the first event were used to start a recreational baseball league called Little Heroes working with Dallas recreation centers.
Players receive free uniforms and equipment, Mr. McKinney said. Games are played at the Little Heroes field along with Dallas recreation fields. Thousands of youngsters have gone through the program, and 700 will play ball this summer.
"When kids are not in school, idle time can be dangerous time," Mr. McKinney said. "Sports programs keep kids busy and bring coaches into their lives as instant mentors."
A supporter from the start is Mr. Cuban, who said he's bringing his "new bionic hip" - courtesy of last year's hip replacement surgery - as his strength for this year's game.
"No one has seen the new bionic Mark Cuban," he said. "But I wouldn't miss the game regardless. It supports great organizations which are important to me."
At the game, fans can get up close and personal with some of their favorite sports celebrities starting at 2 p.m. with a tailgate party, followed by a home run derby. The game begins at 6 p.m.
Maria Garza, recreation specialist at Pike Park Recreation Center, will bring a van full of Little Heroes league players whom she coaches.
"A lot of these kids wouldn't be able to afford to play baseball, let alone go to a game," she said. "They see the players and leave inspired, believing anything is possible."
If you go...
What: 2008 Reebok Heroes Celebrity Baseball Game
Where: Dr. Pepper Ballpark in Frisco (7300 Rough Riders Trail)
When: Saturday, June 28
Tickets: $5-$15 and can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 214-373-8000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com or at the ballpark box office during office hours.