In celebration of the first National Dance Day being held Saturday, July 31, SeaWorld animals "dance" to their own beat. National Day Dance is being recognized as a day to promote exercise, self-esteem and a healthy lifestyle.
Click here to see SeaWorld’s biggest stars groovin' to the music and be sure to become a fan at Facebook.com/SeaWorld.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Free Two-Day Children's Book Festival
"Plant the Reading Seed & Watch it Grow"
Fairytale Town 's 10th Annual
ScholarShare Children's Book Festival
FREE ADMISSION
Saturday & Sunday, September 25 & 26, 2010
10AM to 4PM
Fairytale Town 's 10th Annual
ScholarShare Children's Book Festival
FREE ADMISSION
Saturday & Sunday, September 25 & 26, 2010
10AM to 4PM
Cultivate, plant, water and fertilize, then watch them grow! Tend to children the same way you would a garden and watch those kids grow in mind, spirit, creativity and imagination! 2010 marks Fairytale Town's 10th Anniversary of the ScholarShare Children's Book Festival on September 25 & 26. This two-day festival will feature children's book author and illustrator presentations, storytelling performances, celebrity readers, a book swap, and hands-on literacy activities offered by an array of community-based literacy organizations. Best of all, admission to the event is FREE. (Adults must accompany children and vice versa.)
This year's line-up of author and illustrator presenters on the Mother Goose Stage include:
Doug Hansen - Award Winning Author of Mother Goose in California
Angela Dominguez - Illustrator of Ava Tree and the Wishes Three, La Noche Buena, Carmen Learns English, and others
Patricia Newman - Author of Nugget on the Flight, Jingle the Brass
Linda Knoll - Author & Illustrator of Over in the Valley
Rachel Dillon - Author & Illustrator of Through Endangered Eyes
David Schwartz - Author of Where Else in the Wild, Where in the Wild, How Much is a Million
Terri Farley - Author of Seven Tears Into the Sea, Phantom Stallion Series
Tolya Thompson - Author of The Smarties Series, including, Wheezing Winona Weatherbee
Lily Toppenberg - Illustrator of Delta & Dawn: Mother & Baby Wahales' Journey
In addition to author and illustrator presentations on the Mother Goose Stage, Sacramento Area Youth Speaks (SAYS) will recite original poems, and Puppet Art Theater will perform puppet shows in the Children's Theater. Just some of the many hands-on literacy activities will be provided by KVIE, White Stag Press, Sacramento Braille Transcribers and many other local organizations. Children bringing in gently used books may trade them for another one at the Book Swap.
"Its a day full of fun literacy activities and a great way to introduce your child to a variety of books, authors, and children's literature," says Kathy Fleming, Executive Director of Fairytale Town .
The free ScholarShare Children's Book Festival is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors: ScholarShare College Savings Plan, Wells Fargo, The Sacramento Bee, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and IKEA.
For more information, please visit www.fairytaletown.org or call Fairytale Town at 916-808-7462.
SEAWORLD AND BUSCH GARDENS GRANT MORE THAN $1 MILLION TO HELP PROTECT ANIMALS IN NEED
ORLANDO, Fla. (July 22, 2010) – Animals in need and endangered species and around the world will benefit from more than $1 million in grants awarded by the non-profit SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. Since its creation seven years ago, the Fund has granted more than $7 million to protect wildlife and wild places.
The Fund’s board of directors approved the 2010 grants to 95 wildlife protection projects including rescue and rehabilitation efforts of endangered manatees and sea turtles, protection of critical habitats such as the Florida Keys , studies of declining shark populations and education programs that inspire people to care for at-risk wildlife.
“The challenges and pressures facing wildlife and entire ecosystems are greater than ever,” said Brad Andrews, president and executive director of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund and chief zoological officer for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “We identify projects with the greatest potential to positively impact conservation so that every dollar we grant works as hard as possible to protect the animals.”
Just a few of the many projects and organizations supported in 2010 include:
Preserving the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are known for sunshine and good times, but the area is also a vital ecological region suffering from environmental degradation. The Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue facility rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife and educates the public on the importance of keeping the environment safe and clean for present and future generations.
San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society
The San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society is the only non-profit organization in San Diego that rescues turtles and tortoises of any species. They also provide medical care, foster care and permanent home placements. The Fund’s support will help with medical care requirements of the California Desert Tortoise and education of the public concerning the proper care of the tortoise as well as how to help protect species native to California.
Safe Guarding Sea Turtle Nesting Sites
Cameroon Sea Turtle Society is protecting newly identified green and leatherback turtle nesting sites along the Wole beach in the Republic of Cameroon . This is an important nesting ground for sea turtles threatened by ship building, toxic waste and egg poachers. The Society’s efforts include nesting site clean-ups, creating safe zones that would limit access and educating egg poachers in other income–generating trades.
Bald Eagle Rescue and Rehabilitation
Florida supports one of the largest breeding populations of bald eagles in the continental United States . The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is the leading raptor rehabilitation facility in the region and works to protect bald eagles and their habitat through its rehabilitation program, nest monitoring program, and educational programs that reach more than 35,000 people annually.
Sand Tiger Shark Conservation
Due to their unfortunate reputation as a “man-eater”, sharks are often not thought of when the public considers wildlife conservation. The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is currently doing a study on the decline of the sand tiger shark population along the east coast of the United States . This information will be integrated into the development of the Coastal Sharks Interstate Fishery Management Plan by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to further the conservation of this threatened species.
Conserving the West African Manatee
In Africa , the lack of basic knowledge about West African manatees has been a great hindrance to the long-term conservation of the species. The Wildlife Trust is working to create a unified network of African researchers in countries of the animal’s range to collect collaborative research on the endangered species.
Save the Elephants
The Mobile Education and Monitoring Unit is a new project that will double the outreach and education capabilities of the Save the Elephants Education Program in Samburu, northern Kenya . The work being done there includes long-term elephant monitoring and conducting mammal census in the Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves.
For more information on the Fund, please visit www.swbg-conservationfund.org.
The Fund’s board of directors approved the 2010 grants to 95 wildlife protection projects including rescue and rehabilitation efforts of endangered manatees and sea turtles, protection of critical habitats such as the Florida Keys , studies of declining shark populations and education programs that inspire people to care for at-risk wildlife.“The challenges and pressures facing wildlife and entire ecosystems are greater than ever,” said Brad Andrews, president and executive director of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund and chief zoological officer for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “We identify projects with the greatest potential to positively impact conservation so that every dollar we grant works as hard as possible to protect the animals.”
Just a few of the many projects and organizations supported in 2010 include:
Preserving the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are known for sunshine and good times, but the area is also a vital ecological region suffering from environmental degradation. The Florida Keys Wildlife Rescue facility rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife and educates the public on the importance of keeping the environment safe and clean for present and future generations.
San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society
The San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society is the only non-profit organization in San Diego that rescues turtles and tortoises of any species. They also provide medical care, foster care and permanent home placements. The Fund’s support will help with medical care requirements of the California Desert Tortoise and education of the public concerning the proper care of the tortoise as well as how to help protect species native to California.
Safe Guarding Sea Turtle Nesting Sites
Cameroon Sea Turtle Society is protecting newly identified green and leatherback turtle nesting sites along the Wole beach in the Republic of Cameroon . This is an important nesting ground for sea turtles threatened by ship building, toxic waste and egg poachers. The Society’s efforts include nesting site clean-ups, creating safe zones that would limit access and educating egg poachers in other income–generating trades.
Bald Eagle Rescue and Rehabilitation
Florida supports one of the largest breeding populations of bald eagles in the continental United States . The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is the leading raptor rehabilitation facility in the region and works to protect bald eagles and their habitat through its rehabilitation program, nest monitoring program, and educational programs that reach more than 35,000 people annually.
Sand Tiger Shark Conservation
Due to their unfortunate reputation as a “man-eater”, sharks are often not thought of when the public considers wildlife conservation. The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is currently doing a study on the decline of the sand tiger shark population along the east coast of the United States . This information will be integrated into the development of the Coastal Sharks Interstate Fishery Management Plan by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to further the conservation of this threatened species.
Conserving the West African Manatee
In Africa , the lack of basic knowledge about West African manatees has been a great hindrance to the long-term conservation of the species. The Wildlife Trust is working to create a unified network of African researchers in countries of the animal’s range to collect collaborative research on the endangered species.
Save the Elephants
The Mobile Education and Monitoring Unit is a new project that will double the outreach and education capabilities of the Save the Elephants Education Program in Samburu, northern Kenya . The work being done there includes long-term elephant monitoring and conducting mammal census in the Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves.
For more information on the Fund, please visit www.swbg-conservationfund.org.
SEAWORLD CARING FOR BABY MANATEE AROUND THE CLOCK
-- Orphan is 23rd Rescued Manatee in 2010 --
SeaWorld animal care specialists are a little bleary-eyed this week as they provide 24-hour care for a weeks-old, baby manatee. Orphaned by her mother, the female calf arrived at the park’s rehabilitation center on July 24 after being rescued from the waters of Daytona Beach , Fla.
Every three hours the 3½-foot and 41-pound orphan is bottled-fed with the park’s nutrient-rich baby formula that promotes weight gain. Her weight is taken every other day as animal care specialists closely monitor her progress. She remains in guarded condition and park veterinarians hope to eventually return her back to the wild.
The animal was transported to SeaWorld by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.
SeaWorld is the global leader in the rescue and rehabilitation of manatees. The park’s Animal Rescue Team is on call 365 days a year and 24 hours a day.
SeaWorld animal care specialist Jeff Braso bottle-feeds a baby manatee, Tuesday, July 27, at SeaWorld’s Rescue & Rehabilitation Center. The park’s animal staff has been providing 24-hour care for the animal since she was orphaned by her mother in Daytona Beach, Fla. on July 24, 2010. (Photo by SeaWorld Orlando)
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights 2010: NEW Klownz Images!
Hope you’re ready for a fright, because Universal Studios Hollywood ’s Halloween Horror Nights 2010 is sneaking up faster than you can say “Boo!”
Murder and mayhem will reign when the ultra-violent gang of killer Klownz takes over a Scare Zone at Universal Studios Hollywood! These psycho circus rejects are armed to the teeth and hell bent on YOUR destruction. You and your readers will meet these serial-killing carnival freaks face-to-face only at Universal Studios Hollywood’s 2010 Halloween Horror Nights.
To check out currently available images and the two NEW Killer Klownz visit the gallery on the Halloween Horror Nights Official Site and don’t forget to check out the Halloween Horror Nights Facebook page to stay connected!
Murder and mayhem will reign when the ultra-violent gang of killer Klownz takes over a Scare Zone at Universal Studios Hollywood! These psycho circus rejects are armed to the teeth and hell bent on YOUR destruction. You and your readers will meet these serial-killing carnival freaks face-to-face only at Universal Studios Hollywood’s 2010 Halloween Horror Nights.
To check out currently available images and the two NEW Killer Klownz visit the gallery on the Halloween Horror Nights Official Site and don’t forget to check out the Halloween Horror Nights Facebook page to stay connected!
The CONEY ISLAND TALENT SHOW, A Spectacle of Sunshine & Lollipops on the Boardwalk! 7/31
Thirsty Girl Productions Presents
The Coney Island Talent Show
A spectacle of sunshine & lollipops on the boardwalk!
Saturday, July 31st
The Coney Island Talent Show
A spectacle of sunshine & lollipops on the boardwalk!
Saturday, July 31st
Coney Island’s talent & entertainment history runs deep. Since the late 1800’s, live music, sideshows and burlesque shows have peppered the boardwalk to the midway, and enchanted the masses.It is the perfect, magical & mystical place for a talent show.
Join Hostess Miss Saturn, The World Famous *BOB*and the fanfare of legendary talent that has come out of Coney Island, by being a part of the first ever Coney Island Talent Show on the boardwalk (between 10th & 12th street) on July 31st from 4pm-8pm. FREE
Categories for this year’s talent contest are:
-Best Drag Performance or Celebrity Impersonator
-Circus Freaks and Sideshow Geeks (including all variety, novelty acts)
-Dance your Pants Off (including soloists, troupes & step teams)
-Creative Kids, 9-12years
-& Sassy Seniors, 60 and up
The sub category in each level is Best Costume so contestants are sure to add some pizzazz to their outfit for this Coney Island affair.
Featured performers include; comedian/musician, Jessica Delfino, Jelvis, the Jewish Elvis Impersonator, The Amazing Amy, a Yoga Dancing Contortionist, The Rhinestone Follies, a showgirl troupe from Brooklyn, The Minsky Sisters, a vaudeville tap dancing duo, 10 year old Carly Rose Sonencla, who sang in the opening ceremonies of last year ‘s US Open and 12 year old Phineas who juggles knives.
That’s just a taste of all the great performers ranging from sword swallowers & magicians to musicians and dancers.
1st prize in each category will receive a cash prize of $200, a season pass to participating Coney Island Amusements and an opportunity to perform live before a Brooklyn Cyclone’s Baseball Game, The 22nd Tattoo & Motorcycle Festival, or The 8th Annual New York Burlesque Festival
2nd prize in each category will receive a cash prize of $50, and day passes to participating Coney Island Amusements.
3rd prize in each category will receive day passes to participating Coney Island Amusements.
The Best Dressed person in each category will receive a special mystery prize.
Visit www.thirstygirlproductions.com for details!
Knott’s Berry Farm Celebrates Snoopy’s 60th Birthday!
BUENA PARK, Calif. (Summer 2010) – Though they don’t look a day over 6, believe it or not Snoopy and the Peanut’s Gang turn 60 this year! To celebrate, Knott’s Berry Farm, will join with sister Cedar Fair Parks across the country to honor the cherished cartoon characters July 31 - August 8 with special activities, a stage show, and a donations drive for the Irvine Animal Care Center.
The Irvine Animal Care Center is the largest pro-humane animal shelter in Orange County receiving nearly 4,000 animals each year. Party attendees who bring in a “present” to Snoopy’s party for the shelter will receive regular admission into Knott’s for only $34.99 and a child’s ticket (ages 3-11) for only $21.99. Among the items needed are dog/cat food, dog treats, animal toys, towels, blankets and much more. For a complete list of needed items, visit www.knotts.com and go to “Special Events.” Representatives from the Irvine Animal Care Center and pets in need of adoption will be making an appearance at Knott’s on Saturday, July 31 to kick off the event.
To celebrate this milestone birthday, Knott’s Berry Farm is creating a special “Birthday Zone” for kids and their families. Upon entering the “Birthday Zone” all children 11 and under will receive an “invitation” that they will present at each party station. Planned activities include a Pin the Tail on Snoopy Game, an Ice Cream Cone Toss Game, Chalk Drawing Area and a Giant Birthday Card that everyone can sign. After visiting each station, kids will receive a coupon for a free chocolate chip cookie – Snoopy’s favorite snack!
The celebration continues into the evening when Camp Snoopy comes alive with “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” a continuous light show filled with Peanuts’ three dimensional figures, themed music, sound effects, voice-overs and colorful projections of the Peanuts’ characters. In “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” guests will see their favorite characters in scenes that personify them – Lucy’s dream of being a Hollywood starlet, Schroeder’s musical genius, even Woodstock gets into the act as he and Snoopy go on a camping adventure.
Knott’s Berry Farm became associated with Charles Schulz and the Peanuts characters back in 1983 when they created Camp Snoopy, a six acre land completely themed to the Peanuts characters. Camp Snoopy features over 30 rides and attractions and was the first area in an amusement park dedicated solely to kids under 12.
For hours on the day you plan to visit call (714) 220-5200 or check the Knott’s Berry Farm website at www.knotts.com, where you can also save time and money with Knott’s Print@Home tickets.
The Irvine Animal Care Center is the largest pro-humane animal shelter in Orange County receiving nearly 4,000 animals each year. Party attendees who bring in a “present” to Snoopy’s party for the shelter will receive regular admission into Knott’s for only $34.99 and a child’s ticket (ages 3-11) for only $21.99. Among the items needed are dog/cat food, dog treats, animal toys, towels, blankets and much more. For a complete list of needed items, visit www.knotts.com and go to “Special Events.” Representatives from the Irvine Animal Care Center and pets in need of adoption will be making an appearance at Knott’s on Saturday, July 31 to kick off the event.
To celebrate this milestone birthday, Knott’s Berry Farm is creating a special “Birthday Zone” for kids and their families. Upon entering the “Birthday Zone” all children 11 and under will receive an “invitation” that they will present at each party station. Planned activities include a Pin the Tail on Snoopy Game, an Ice Cream Cone Toss Game, Chalk Drawing Area and a Giant Birthday Card that everyone can sign. After visiting each station, kids will receive a coupon for a free chocolate chip cookie – Snoopy’s favorite snack!
The celebration continues into the evening when Camp Snoopy comes alive with “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” a continuous light show filled with Peanuts’ three dimensional figures, themed music, sound effects, voice-overs and colorful projections of the Peanuts’ characters. In “Snoopy’s Starlight Spectacular” guests will see their favorite characters in scenes that personify them – Lucy’s dream of being a Hollywood starlet, Schroeder’s musical genius, even Woodstock gets into the act as he and Snoopy go on a camping adventure.
Knott’s Berry Farm became associated with Charles Schulz and the Peanuts characters back in 1983 when they created Camp Snoopy, a six acre land completely themed to the Peanuts characters. Camp Snoopy features over 30 rides and attractions and was the first area in an amusement park dedicated solely to kids under 12.
For hours on the day you plan to visit call (714) 220-5200 or check the Knott’s Berry Farm website at www.knotts.com, where you can also save time and money with Knott’s Print@Home tickets.
Conneaut Lake Park’s 1938 wooden coaster only 7 spots away from winning $50,000 in Pepsi’s online voting contest
Conneaut Lake, PA: The Pepsi Refresh project is awarding $1,300,000 each month to community projects. Grant recipients are determined based upon the top projects as voted on by the public. The grant category that the Blue Streak roller coaster is in features hundreds of projects, and awards $50,000 to each of the top 10 spots. US residents ages 13 and older can vote daily for the project; voting ends July 31, 2010.
Conneaut Lake Park (est. 1892) has struggled against many hardships and opened in 2010 for the second season after having been closed for two years. The Blue Streak last ran in 2006, and is currently being renovated. Donations to this effort are crucial and can be made via the park’s website: www.conneautlakepark.com. Continued financial support, including this grant, could mean the coaster might run by the end of this ride season.
The coaster shares this historic park with the world’s oldest Tumble Bug, a carousel dating back to 1910, and the beautiful 1903 Hotel Conneaut, to name a few. American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) has recognized the Blue Streak as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historical significance. The Blue Streak is one of only two remaining coasters of its design. A vote for the Blue Streak is a vote to preserve the memories and history of this nostalgic park. To vote, go to www.conneautlakepark.com and click on the link or go directly to www.refresheverything.com/conneautlakeparkbluestreak. To ensure the vote is truly cast, you must go to the bottom left of the voting page and “Sign In” or “Join Refresh Everything” THEN click on “Vote for this Idea.” You can (and should!) vote every day.
Conneaut Lake Park (est. 1892) has struggled against many hardships and opened in 2010 for the second season after having been closed for two years. The Blue Streak last ran in 2006, and is currently being renovated. Donations to this effort are crucial and can be made via the park’s website: www.conneautlakepark.com. Continued financial support, including this grant, could mean the coaster might run by the end of this ride season.
The coaster shares this historic park with the world’s oldest Tumble Bug, a carousel dating back to 1910, and the beautiful 1903 Hotel Conneaut, to name a few. American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) has recognized the Blue Streak as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historical significance. The Blue Streak is one of only two remaining coasters of its design. A vote for the Blue Streak is a vote to preserve the memories and history of this nostalgic park. To vote, go to www.conneautlakepark.com and click on the link or go directly to www.refresheverything.com/conneautlakeparkbluestreak. To ensure the vote is truly cast, you must go to the bottom left of the voting page and “Sign In” or “Join Refresh Everything” THEN click on “Vote for this Idea.” You can (and should!) vote every day.
Conneaut Lake Park’s 1938 wooden coaster only 7 spots away from winning $50,000 in Pepsi’s online voting contest
Conneaut Lake, PA: The Pepsi Refresh project is awarding $1,300,000 each month to community projects. Grant recipients are determined based upon the top projects as voted on by the public. The grant category that the Blue Streak roller coaster is in features hundreds of projects, and awards $50,000 to each of the top 10 spots. US residents ages 13 and older can vote daily for the project; voting ends July 31, 2010.
Conneaut Lake Park (est. 1892) has struggled against many hardships and opened in 2010 for the second season after having been closed for two years. The Blue Streak last ran in 2006, and is currently being renovated. Donations to this effort are crucial and can be made via the park’s website: www.conneautlakepark.com. Continued financial support, including this grant, could mean the coaster might run by the end of this ride season.
The coaster shares this historic park with the world’s oldest Tumble Bug, a carousel dating back to 1910, and the beautiful 1903 Hotel Conneaut, to name a few. American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) has recognized the Blue Streak as an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, a designation reserved for rides of historical significance. The Blue Streak is one of only two remaining coasters of its design.
BABY FLAMINGOS HATCHED AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY
As these babies prove, newly hatched chicks are not pink, but in fact have gray or white down feathers. Their pink coloring comes from the carotenoid pigments they consume as part of their diet. They won’t lose all of their darker feathers for a few years.
Flamingos have long resided at Busch Gardens . Their bright color and gentle nature have made them a favorite of park guests for many years.
Photo by Matt Marriott/ Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Prayers and Strength for Sandy Graham
I don't even know what to say... many of you know, and many don't yet know, but our beloved friend Sandy Graham, has taken a turn for the worse in her struggle to battle brain cancer.
Several months ago, a tumor was removed from Sandy's brain - and at the time, we weren't sure whether Sandy would make it or not. You can imagine the joy, tears and happiness when the word came that the doctors had removed the entire tumor and that the surgery was a "success", even though there were residual effects that Sandy's had to learn to live with.
Recently, Sandy's progress in her recovery has slowed and then, things started becoming more difficult when they should have been getting easier. Tawnda, Sandy's sister, knew something was not right. This week, Tawnda took Sandy to the emergency room where tests were done over a 24-hour period and the devastating news came - it appears that Sandy's tumor is returning, and at this point, most of the doctors do not feel that Sandy has more than 12 months to live.
Anyone close to Sandy feels like they've been hit in the stomach with a baseball bat. The utter sadness, frustration and ultimately, helplessness that we have all had to face in light of this new prognosis has been one of the ugliest realities that we've ever had to deal with.
UPDATE: Sandy has been discharged from the hospital and is now at home under the supervision of hospice care.
Now, more than ever, it is time to show your love and support for this amazing human being. If you have free time, go visit Sandy. If you don't have the time, make the time and go visit Sandy.
To arrange a visit with Sandy at home, please call her sister, Tawnda, first. Tawnda's phone number is (310) 480-7514. Their home address is:
There are still up-coming benefits for Sandy, and now more than ever, we need to come together as her friends, fans, loved ones and supporters and be the wind at her back; those who hold her up and cherish her for the incredible individual she is.
If you have not yet signed up for the Disneyland Resort Benefit Event for Sandy, please do so by clicking here for more information. Even if you do not have a way to get in to the Park, there is an entire portion of this that takes place in Downtown Disney, the hotels and the common areas so that everyone can participate in this.
For more information or to visit Sandy's personal blog, click here.
Spread the word, share these links - but most of all, continue to support our dear Queen Sandy. We love her, love her family and wish there was more we could do in the face of such dire news.
- Rick
Several months ago, a tumor was removed from Sandy's brain - and at the time, we weren't sure whether Sandy would make it or not. You can imagine the joy, tears and happiness when the word came that the doctors had removed the entire tumor and that the surgery was a "success", even though there were residual effects that Sandy's had to learn to live with.
Anyone close to Sandy feels like they've been hit in the stomach with a baseball bat. The utter sadness, frustration and ultimately, helplessness that we have all had to face in light of this new prognosis has been one of the ugliest realities that we've ever had to deal with.
UPDATE: Sandy has been discharged from the hospital and is now at home under the supervision of hospice care.
Now, more than ever, it is time to show your love and support for this amazing human being. If you have free time, go visit Sandy. If you don't have the time, make the time and go visit Sandy.
To arrange a visit with Sandy at home, please call her sister, Tawnda, first. Tawnda's phone number is (310) 480-7514. Their home address is:
23594 Underwood Circle
Murrieta, California 92562
There are still up-coming benefits for Sandy, and now more than ever, we need to come together as her friends, fans, loved ones and supporters and be the wind at her back; those who hold her up and cherish her for the incredible individual she is.
If you have not yet signed up for the Disneyland Resort Benefit Event for Sandy, please do so by clicking here for more information. Even if you do not have a way to get in to the Park, there is an entire portion of this that takes place in Downtown Disney, the hotels and the common areas so that everyone can participate in this.
It is extremely important that you do not mention anything about the tumor or prognosis to Sandy when you see her. Tawnda has requested that the subject not be disclosed to Sandy, as that is a very personal situation obviously; Tawnda will have to have that talk with Sandy when the time is right.
Please respect Sandy's family's wishes and do not disclose any medical information to her whatsoever. Simply visit her, love her and tell her you cannot wait for her to visit Haunt, get better, etc. ONLY positive thoughts and things, please. It is imperative that everyone is on the same page with this and respects the family's wishes.
For more information or to visit Sandy's personal blog, click here.
Spread the word, share these links - but most of all, continue to support our dear Queen Sandy. We love her, love her family and wish there was more we could do in the face of such dire news.
- Rick
Monday, July 12, 2010
Sandy Graham Benefit Scanvenger Hunt at Disneyland Resort!
On Sunday, August 29, 2010, the next benefit event for Sandy Graham will take place at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California!
There will be two separate divisions, so that everyone can participate in this fantastic scavenger hunt; the first division is for those with Annual Passes (or those willing to buy a ticket to Disneyland Park), as it will take you all over the Magic Kingdom and let you see the park in a whole new way! The second division is for those without Annual Passes or tickets to Disneyland Park; it will take you on a hunt through the common areas - the central area between the two theme parks, the transportation areas, the three Disney hotels and Downtown Disney!
The cost is $20 to enter, and that entry fee is for a team of two to four individuals! Not bad at all, considering the proceeds from this event go to everyone's favorite Vampire Queen!
Information on the event can be found here. Please read all of the details and come out and show your love and support for Sandy!
Registration for the event closes August 15, 2010, but payment does not need to be made until day of the benefit, at check-in.
Work it out! See you all there! We'd love to see a great turn-out from TPAers!
The cost is $20 to enter, and that entry fee is for a team of two to four individuals! Not bad at all, considering the proceeds from this event go to everyone's favorite Vampire Queen!
Information on the event can be found here. Please read all of the details and come out and show your love and support for Sandy!
Registration for the event closes August 15, 2010, but payment does not need to be made until day of the benefit, at check-in.
Work it out! See you all there! We'd love to see a great turn-out from TPAers!
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