26 Jun 2012

RiffTrax Live Back in U.S. Cinemas with "'Manos' The Hands Of Fate"

By Rick Martin
NCM® Fathom Events and RiffTrax Present Hilarious Cult Classic with
All-New Live Comedic Commentary from the Stars of "Mystery Science Theater 3000" Broadcast to Select Movie Theaters Nationwide August 16
RAVE Davenport 53 18 with IMAX 3601 E 53Rd St Davenport IA 52807 7:00 PM
Centennial, Colo. - June 21, 2012 - NCM® Fathom Events and RiffTrax present "RiffTrax Live: 'Manos' The Hands of Fate" in theaters for only one night on Thursday, August 16 at 8:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. CT and tape delayed 7:00 p.m. MT / 8:00 p.m. PT. Featuring the same comedians from the cult classic "Mystery Science Theater 3000" (MST3K), Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett will reunite on the big screen to fire off their wisecracking commentary on the 1966 American horror feature "'Manos' The Hands of Fate." The event will be broadcast LIVE from Nashville to participating movie theaters across the country. Attendees will be treated not only to "Manos'" infamous abysmal acting, outdated effects and seemingly endless cat fights featuring 'The Master's' many girdle-clad wives, but also a selection of free digital goodies.
Tickets for "RiffTrax Live: 'Manos' The Hands of Fate" are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change). The event will be broadcast to more than 550 select movie theaters across the country through NCM's exclusive Digital Broadcast Network.
"Revisiting 'Manos' again after 19 years will be like running into a dear old friend?a friend who drinks all your beer and hits you up for money," said Michael J. Nelson, RiffTrax creator and former host of the Emmy-nominated, Peabody Award-winning 'Mystery Science Theater 3000.' "Still, we're thrilled to be able to bring this timeless classic to the big screen. (Don't tell anyone but I seriously love this film.)"
Previous successful Fathom and RiffTrax events have included "RiffTrax Live: Jack the Giant Killer" in August 2011, a hilarious riff of the cheesy 1962 fantasy epic featuring giant rubber monsters and a leprechaun in a jar; "RiffTrax Live: House on Haunted Hill" in October 2010, which took on the Vincent Price horror classic just in time for Halloween; "RiffTrax Live: Reefer Madness" in August 2010, parodying the legendary cult classic; "RiffTrax Live: Plan 9 From Outer Space" in August 2009, skewering what is widely considered to be the 'worst film ever made'; and "RiffTrax Live: Christmas Shorts-Stravaganza" in December 2009, featuring "Weird Al" Yankovic.
"Fathom's live in-theater events with the RiffTrax gang have been tremendously popular with theater audiences," said Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of NCM Fathom Events. "With 'Manos,' Mike, Kevin and Bill are sure to deliver yet another side-splitting evening of fun, packed with their signature brand of wisecracks."
Infamous for its significant technical deficiencies and continuity flaws, "'Manos' The Hands of Fate," written, directed, produced by and starring Harold P. Warren, is widely believed to be one of the worst films ever made. The plot revolves around a vacationing family who lose their way on a road trip in Texas, and find themselves trapped at a lodge maintained by a polygamous pagan cult. In 1993 "Mystery Science Theater 3000" featured "'Manos' The Hands of Fate," launching the film's cult status.
**Editor Note: Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett will be available for select telephone, radio and television press interviews. Artwork, bios and other promotional materials can be found at www.rifftrax.com/epk.
About National CineMedia (NCM)
NCM operates NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology. The NCM Cinema Network and NCM Fathom Events present cinema advertising and events across the nation's largest digital in-theater network, comprised of theaters owned by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) and other leading regional theater circuits. NCM's theater advertising network covers 181 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50) and includes over 19,000 screens (approximately 17,800 digital). During 2011, over 670 million patrons (on an annualized basis) attended movies shown in theaters in which NCM currently has exclusive, cinema advertising agreements in place. The NCM Fathom Events live digital broadcast network ("DBN") is comprised of over 700 locations in 167 Designated Market Areas® (including all of the top 50). The NCM Interactive Network offers 360-degree integrated marketing opportunities in combination with cinema, encompassing 42 entertainment-related websites, online widgets and mobile applications. National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 48.6% interest in and is the managing member of National CineMedia LLC. For more information, visit www.ncm.com or www.FathomEvents.com.
About RiffTrax
Featuring former members of the Emmy-nominated, Peabody Award-winning show "Mystery Science Theater 3000," RiffTrax is composed of Michael J. Nelson, Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett. Nelson has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows, written a regular column for TV Guide and authored many best-selling books. Perhaps best known as the man behind the plucky red robot Tom Servo on "Mystery Science Theater 3000," Murphy is also author of the bestselling book "A Year at the Movies: One Man's Filmgoing Odyssey," and has provided film commentary for NPR's "Weekend Edition." In addition to being a screenwriter and an internationally-produced playwright, Corbett was the voice of the robot Crow (version 2.0) on "Mystery Science Theater 3000," as well as many other strange characters including the clueless alien The Observer (a.k.a. "Brain Guy"). To find out more about RiffTrax, visit www.rifftrax.com.
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26 Jun 2012

Braley Introduces Bill Making More Blinded Veterans Eligible for VA Adaptive Housing Grants

By Jeff Giertz

Adaptive housing grant program makes it easier for disabled vets to live in their homes

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) today announced the introduction of legislation he's authored to help more blinded veterans qualify for a Veterans Administration grant program designed to help injured and disabled veterans live in their homes.  VA adaptive housing grants provide one-time funding for permanently disabled veterans to remodel their homes and make them more disability-accessible.

Currently, to qualify for VA adaptive housing grants, a blinded veteran must have visual acuity of 5/200 or worse (meaning that individual must be five feet away from an object to see it with the same acuity that an individual with normal vision can see at 200 feet).  Someone with 5/200 vision generally has an inability to distinguish whether they're in a lit environment or an unlit environment.

Many veterans who have suffered the effects of impaired vision as a result of military service do not meet this very high standard, but still face a significant disability that affects their quality of life.

Furthermore, at 20/200, federal law has a less restrictive standard for blindness than the Veterans Administration.  In fact, the American Medical Association first adopted this standard for blindness in 1934, and the Social Security Administration adopted it in 1968.  And other programs in the Veterans Administration use the 20/200 standard already.

HR 5999, the Housing for Blinded Veterans Act, that Braley introduced will apply the American Medical Association and federal government's 20/200 standard for blindness to the VA's adaptive housing program.  This will expand eligibility for the program to more blind veterans and create a more uniform standard for blindness across federal agencies.

"This is the definition of a common sense change," Braley said.  "It's silly for the federal government to use one standard for blindness and the Veterans Administration to use another, tougher standard... and just for one program, too.  Applying the commonly recognized standard for blindness to the VA adaptive housing grant program  means more disabled veterans will qualify for help.  Plus, it just makes sense."

 

Braley has been a staunch advocate for expanding veterans' eligibility for and improving the VA's adaptive housing grant program, which provides grants to permanently disabled veterans to make their homes more disability accessible.  Last year, Braley introduced the Andrew Connolly Veterans Housing Act, a bill that renews the adaptive housing grant program.  The bill was passed by the US House last spring and is still being considered by the Senate.

Full bill text of the Housing for Blinded Veterans Act can be downloaded at the following link: http://go.usa.gov/vGw

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26 Jun 2012

Schilling's Plan for Quality, Convenient, Patient-Centered, and Affordable Health Care

By Rick Martin

Moline, Illinois - With the Supreme Court's decision on the constitutionality of President Barack Obama's health care reform law - the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - expected soon, Congressman Bobby Schilling (IL-17) released the following statement on his plan for health care reform moving forward:

"Before Independence Day, the Supreme Court is expected to announce its ruling on the President's health care reform law.  The court could decide to uphold the entire law, strike it down entirely, or strike parts of it - parts like Medicaid expansion or the individual mandate, which requires nearly every American to buy health insurance.

"Regardless of the court's decision on the law, I want to work in a bipartisan and transparent way to replace it with common-sense, step-by-step policies that actually lower the cost of health care, preserve Medicare for our children and grandchildren, and put patients and their doctors back in charge of health care decisions.  There's significant support for the law's repeal, and there's also widespread agreement that the American health care system is broken and in need of reform.  

"Simply put, our work doesn't stop if this law is taken off the books.

"We should take up-or-down votes on individual improvements to our health care system - particularly those that seek to lower costs and ultimately make care more affordable and more convenient. It's important that folks with preexisting conditions be able to find coverage, for example.  And in a tough economy like this, I agree that young adults should be able to find affordable coverage.  Individuals should be able to buy health insurance plans across state lines, with the goal of increasing competition and driving down costs.  We should vote to advance common-sense liability protections, stemming defensive medicine and lowering the cost of care.  We should also vote on a plan to ensure Medicare physicians won't see their reimbursement rates cut.  This issue must be resolved to ensure physicians aren't pushed out of Medicare, creating serious access problems for seniors across the country.  

"We can also vote on bills that I introduced - like the Charity Care Tax Deduction Act, for example, that would provide a tax deduction to physicians who administer charity care for those can't afford health insurance, or the Enhanced Veteran Health Care Experience Act that would allow veterans to access the health care they need in their hometowns with their home doctors.

"Another solution to lower health care costs is the bipartisan Health Flexible Spending Arrangements Improvement Act, which passed the House and would allow 35 million Americans to save unused money in their flexible spending accounts for future use on unexpected medical costs.  The current "use it or lose it" policy is hurting American families.

"Unless the court throws out the entire law, I will continue working to repeal whatever's left and apply any savings to a deficit reduction plan.  We can't tax, spend, or regulate our way into a stronger economy and better health care, nor can we prepare ourselves for future threats to our national security while taking a meat cleaver to the Department of Defense's budget.  

"Over the last year and a half, the House has voted 30 times on different bills to repeal, defund, or dismantle the health care reform law.  Most recently we voted to repeal its tax on medical devices.  This is a tax that would be harmful to companies like Cook Medical, which has been hoping to expand its operations in Canton.  The medical device tax would destroy jobs in an industry that employs more than 400,000 Americans throughout the country - 70 in Canton alone.  We have also voted to repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB); a board of unelected bureaucrats tasked with saving money by restricting access to health care for Medicare beneficiaries.  I voted to repeal this board to keep health care decisions between patients and their doctor.  

"The bottom line is that I want to make quality health care more convenient and more affordable.  I want you to be able to visit the doctor of your choosing and be given the care that your doctor thinks is best.  

"Every American is impacted by the health care reform law, and will be affected by the Supreme Court's decision.  We need to continue to work to ensure folks in Illinois and across the country have access to health care that's high quality, patient-centered, convenient, and affordable, but the best ideas often don't come from Washington DC, they come from the folks I represent.  Please contact my office at schilling.house.gov or (202) 225-5905 with your ideas to improve care."

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To send Congressman Schilling an e-mail, click hereTo send Congressman Schilling an e-mail, click here
25 Jun 2012

Riverfront Pops presents ABBA: The Concert

By Jared Johnson

For the Quad City Bank and Trust Riverfront Pops this September, the Quad City Symphony Orchestra will bring one of the greatest pop music phenomenons in history back to life with ABBA: The Concert. Every year, thousands of people visit the Mississippi riverfront from all around the region for an afternoon of fun and music at Riverfront Pops.

ABBA: The Concert has been performed in more than 20 countries around the world and has done more than 1,000 shows. During these tours the show has always included members of the original ABBA rhythm section. ABBA: The Concert continues to be the top ABBA tribute group in the world while dazzling all who see them with their fantastic performance of such iconic hits as "Mamma Mia," "S.O.S," "Money, Money, Money," "The Winner Takes It All," "Waterloo," "Gimme, Gimme, Gimme," and "Dancing Queen." ABBA is one of the best-selling recording artists of all time with over 370 million records sold. Their music has returned to prominence recently with the hit musical and subsequent film, "Mamma Mia!"

The gates open at 3:00 p.m. for seating on the field and in the stands, with the concert beginning at 6:30 p.m. Shuttles will run from Central High School South Lot (11th and Harrison Streets), Palmer College (8th and Harrison Streets), and the Scott County Courthouse from 3:00 p.m. until concert time. Returning this year is a giant kids fun zone courtesy of Jumpin' Joey's Bounce Houses. And for the parents, Quad Cities Social Dancing will be giving free dance lessons from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Learn the Cha-Cha and the Hustle before the concert, and then you can dance the night away on our giant outdoor dance floor.

The Augustana Alumni Relations Office is participating in this tribute to the most popular Swedish band of all time by planning a weekend celebration of their own Swedish heritage. This weekend will include films, sight-seeing tours, and a pre-concert meet and greet with the original members of the ABBA band. To find out the latest information regarding this weekend exploration of everything Swedish, contact Kelly Noack, Director of Alumni and Parent Relations, at 309.794.7474.

Riverfront Pops is proud to be an anchor event to the 2012 East West Riverfest, running from September 7 to 16. East West Riverfest is a celebration of the arts, culture, and heritage of the Quad Cities. Over 200 events and activities will be taking place all around the Quad Cities during the ten-day festival. Over 50 organizations have signed up to participate in this exciting new festival. For more information, visit www.eastwestriverfest.com.

All tickets are $20. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets go on sale this Friday and can be purchased in advance at the QCSO office, all area Quad City Bank and Trust locations, and through Ticketmaster. Groups of 20 or more can contact the box office directly at 563.322.QCSO for special rates and offers.

The Riverfront Pops is sponsored by Quad City Bank and Trust.

25 Jun 2012

Feedback from the Rural Roundtables with Former Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge

By Elizabeth Purchia

DES MOINES - Last week, former Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Agriculture Patty Judge hosted rural roundtables in Adel, Indianola, Carroll and Fort Dodge.  Judge is a member of the Rural Iowans for Obama Steering Committee that was launched by former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack.

 

The roundtables had several themes, but the clear takeaway was the contrast between President Obama and Mitt Romney's approach to rural America.  President Obama is working to build stronger and more diverse economies in rural Iowa through investments in renewable energy, manufacturing, education and agriculture, while Romney has shown little understanding of rural America and agriculture

 

The Associated Press ran a story from Carroll IA on Saturday about rural Iowa and how the success of the state's farm economy will impact the election. Click here to read.

 

"Too often campaigns are about winning Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, and there isn't enough conversation about smaller towns in statewide campaigns, but in this election the Obama campaign will have the largest presence in rural Iowa that any campaign has ever had," said Judge. "There is a real contrast to Mitt Romney's campaign that doesn't have a large presence in Iowa and that will bombard the airwaves with ads funded by billionaire-backed super PACs"

 

One participant in Carroll talked about how proud he was of the number of jobs and funds that renewable energy is pumping into rural Iowa. He wants to make sure that we protect rural interests and that rural Iowans have a voice at the table because they provide a lot of what makes this country run.

 

 

Key issues facing rural Iowans that were discussed at these roundtables include :

 

Jobs

Today, we need to focus on growing our skilled workforce because rural Iowans want quality, high paying jobs.

Education:

Education is an important and prevalent issue in Iowa. Having a strong education system is vitally important to ensuring that our children are prepared for the future.

 

Community colleges should be congratulated for their vocational training programs, which often draw in and feed businesses with skilled workers.

 

Today, the cost of college is unsustainable; we need to make college affordable because it hampers young people and the growth of our middle class.

 

While President Obama is working with Congressional leaders to fight Congressional efforts to double interest rates, Mitt Romney has said that students should just "shop around" for a cheaper college or "borrow money from their parents" to pay for school.

 

Renewable Energy

There is no one size fits all approach to our nation's energy needs, but renewables like wind and biofuels have a lot of advantages and need to be developed.

 

Renewable energy is an important part of the state economy and a critical source of income for rural communities.

 

The commitment that President Obama has to rural Iowa is very clear. We don't see that commitment from Romney and he certainly hasn't been a champion of the renewable industry.

Transportation:

In this day and age everything is about speed and efficiency. In the future, access to broadband and a good transportation infrastructure will be essential to rural communities

 

We need to have the ability for farmers to bring their goods to markets because it's important to marketing, production of agriculture and interstate commerce.

 

Government:

The truth is the government has been a good partner for rural Iowa. The Rural Electrification Act is an excellent example of that and USDA made it possible.  We have good clean water in rural Iowa because of the rural water system that the government helped install. And broadband will come to rural Iowa because the government is choosing to make the investment in us and our future.

 

Young farmers:

The decline in the farm population impacts rural communities; and we need to find new ways to get young people into farming. Agriculture has changed, farms have changed, but we need to maintain the vitality of our rural communities.

 

Health Care:

Two big impacts the Affordable Care Act has on rural Iowans is the fact that children can now stay on their parents' health insurance until they are 26 and it is helping to close the Medicare donut hole.

 

If the Affordable Care Act is taken away, rural Iowans will suffer because so many people make a living through a combination of several part-time jobs and those with pre-existing conditions will struggle to pay for affordable health care insurance.

25 Jun 2012

EXOTIC ESCAPE DAY SPA AND SALON HOLDS FUNDRAISER FOR KING'S HARVEST.

By Rick Martin

Exotic Escape Day Spa and Salon will have a fundraiser for King's Harvest Ministries on Friday, June 29th, 10:00 am - 8:00 pm. Exotic Escape Spa and Salon is located at 2406 E. 53rd Street, Davenport, IA. Proceeds from haircuts and soak/foot massages will go to King's Harvest to help pay for the fire sprinkler system required by the City of Davenport.

The City of Davenport is requiring a $57,000 new fire sprinkler system for King's Harvest Ministries. King's Harvest will need to raise the money for the new system or shut their doors. This includes their Shelter for Homeless Mothers with Children. King's Harvest serves the poor and homeless in the Quad Cities and is located at 824 W. 3rd Street in downtown Davenport.

Haircuts are $25.00 for women and $20.00 for men. A soak and foot massage is $20.00. Proceeds from haircuts and soak/foot massages will go directly to King's Harvest Ministries.

If you would like details on this fundraiser or to schedule an interview with Amanda Wheeler, owner of Exotic Escape Day Spa and Salon please call 563-386-8033.

If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Anne McVey, Fundraising Coordinator for King's Harvest Ministries, please call 563-508-4170.

If you would like to make a donation to the King's Harvest Fire Sprinkler fund please visit www.kingsharvest.net and use paypal or mail checks to King's Harvest Ministries at 5837 Wisconsin Ave. Davenport, IA 52806.

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25 Jun 2012

Doctor: With Cancer, Patients Are First Line of Defense

By Ginny Grimsley
Early Detection Makes a Big Difference
for 6 Common Complications

Often, it's not cancer that kills; it's the complications of cancer, says physician Stephen Garrett Marcus, a senior biotechnology research executive.

Complications are common and become more frequent and severe if cancer progresses or spreads, he says. Spotting them early and treating them quickly can lessen their impact and save lives.

"Patients and their families are the first line of defense; they need to know what to watch for and seek treatment immediately," says Marcus, author of a comprehensive new reference, Complications of Cancer (www.DrStephenMarcus.com). "Many can be successfully treated if they're addressed at the first signs of trouble."

What to watch for? Marcus describes the symptoms of six common complications:

• Malignant spinal cord compression: Compression of the spinal cord is caused by a malignant tumor or by bones in the spine damaged by cancer. Symptoms may include pain in the neck or back and weakness in the arms or legs. This is a medical emergency and should be promptly treated, or patients risk paralysis. Cancers of the lung, breast, and prostate, commonly spread to the spine and are the most likely cancers to produce spinal cord compression.

• Neutropenic sepsis: This condition often occurs during chemotherapy. The most common signs of infection are fever, chills, difficulty breathing, a new persistent cough, a sore throat, or a change in mental clarity. An easy way to lower risk is to keep hands clean. If there is an intravenous access line in place, it is important to keep the area clean.

• Pulmonary embolism: Symptoms usually include sudden, severe shortness of breath associated with pain in the chest area. Treatment may include supplemental oxygen and blood pressure support, if necessary, and administration of blood thinning "anticoagulant" medications.

• Bacterial pneumonia: Cancer or treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and steroid medications can diminish a person's ability to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria in the lungs and increase the risk of pneumonia. Symptoms can include cough, fever and chills. Antibiotics will generally cure pneumonia caused by the most common types of bacteria. If the person also is having severe difficulty breathing or low blood pressure, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be required.

• Intestinal obstruction: The most common first symptom is bouts of severe pain in the middle of the abdomen. Treatment includes intravenous fluids and along with a tube passed into the stomach to decompress the intestine by withdrawing excess fluid and air. Emergency surgery may be necessary to relieve the obstruction.

• Delirium, stupor, and coma: The most common causes of these symptoms in people with cancer are problems with blood chemistry, spread of cancer to the brain, side effects of medications and infections. These complications have various treatments after the cause is identified.

"Attitude is the great wild card for surviving cancer," Marcus say, "both in vigilance for possible complications, and the courage to keep fighting."

About Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D.

Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D. received his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed a medical oncology fellowship at the University of California in San Francisco. As a senior research executive in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry since 1985, he played a lead role in developing Betaseron as the first effective treatment of multiple sclerosis, and has led multinational research teams for other treatments. Marcus is the president and CEO of a biotechnology company developing new treatments for cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

25 Jun 2012

Operation Gratitude Sends 800,000th Care Package

By Operation Gratitude
Van Nuys, CA -- The crowd was electric and in a celebratory mood on June 16 when more than 500 volunteers descended on the California National Guard Armory in Van Nuys to assemble the 800,000th Operation Gratitude Care Package. 

The Milestone package, which will be delivered to a service member currently deployed in harm's way, includes the keys to a custom built "American Chopper" donated by Torque Sports and Performance, Inc. and the SJO Foundation for Hope. 

"Our troops face separation from home and loved ones while they are deployed so Torque Sports and Performance wanted to do something special to let all our Military know we appreciate their sacrifice," said Scott James, President and CEO of Torque Sports and Performance. "We contacted our friends at Orange Country Choppers, a brand that is synonymous with American ingenuity and quality, and they agreed to build a custom chopper for us to give away for a special occasion."

The perfect special occasion turned out to be the shipment of Operation Gratitude's 800,000th care package. James and business partner Scott Templeton were present at the armory to make the announcement about the gift Chopper, which will be revealed and presented to the package recipient at the Armory in December of this year.

Reflecting on the magnitude of the occasion, Operation Gratitude founder, Carolyn Blashek, explained that the 800,000th care package symbolizes:
  • 6.4 Million pounds of donated product
  • $8 Million in shipping costs
  • 40 Million items
  • $80 Million worth of product shipped since the organization started in 2003.
Yet the real significance of all those numbers, Blashek said, is that they represent the enormous generosity of the American people, individually and through businesses.

"The reason we celebrate this package is first to recognize the more than two million  brave warriors who have deployed over the last 10 years," she said.  In addition, we acknowledge "the hundreds of incredibly generous Corporate Sponsors who ensure we can fill the packages and the thousands and thousands of supporters who donate funds, letters, scarves, Beanie Babies and all the other items that go into our packages."

Finally, Blashek noted that the tally also highlights the extraordinary dedication  of more than 14,000 local volunteers who have given tens of thousands of hours of their time to collect, receive, log in, sort, inspect, organize, prepare and assemble the donated product into these "Thank You" care packages. 

"No other organization in history has sent this many packages personally addressed to individual service members," she exclaimed.

According to James and Templeton, the Chopper, which will be built this summer, will have a Rolling Thunder frame, an S&S 100ci polished EPA engine, a custom Torque paint job and a primary cover with five authentic U.S. Military coins (representing the 5 Military branches) embedded on it. "The designs on the rear fender will pay tribute to the wonderful volunteers of Operation Gratitude and to the U.S. troops of the past, present and future," James said.

To commemorate the surprise Milestone day, each volunteer received a special "March to a Million" dogtag that reads: "I am a part of Operation Gratitude History." The limited-edition dog-tags will be available to all donors of at least $15 (the cost to assemble and ship one care package) from July 1 through October 31, 2012 and then again during special designated months in 2013.

###

About Operation Gratitude
Operation Gratitude annually sends 100,000+ care packages filled with snacks, entertainment items and personal letters of appreciation addressed to individually named U.S. Service Members deployed in harm's way, to their children left behind, to Military families and Veterans in financial distress due to unemployment, to Emergency First Responders and to Wounded Warriors recuperating in transition units. The organization's mission is to lift morale, bring a smile to a service member's face and express to our Armed Forces the appreciation and support of the American people. Each package contains donated product valued at ~$125 and costs the organization $15 to assemble and ship. For safety and security, assembling of packages occurs at the Army National Guard armory in Van Nuys, California. Since its inception in 2003, Operation Gratitude volunteers have shipped more than 800,000 packages to American Military members and their children.
25 Jun 2012

American Red Cross Issues Emergency Call for Blood Donors Now

By Ben Corey
Blood and platelet donors of all types needed

PEORIA, Ill. (June 25, 2012) - The American Red Cross blood supply has reached emergency levels with 50,000 fewer donations than expected in June. This shortfall leaves the Red Cross with half the readily available blood products on hand now than this time last year.

The Red Cross is calling on all eligible blood donors - now more than ever - to roll up a sleeve and give as soon as possible. All blood types are needed, but especially O positive, O negative, B negative and A negative in order to meet patient demand this summer.

An unseasonably early start to spring may be a contributing factor to this year's decrease in donations. Many regular donors got an early start on summer activities and aren't taking time to give blood or platelets. In addition, this year's mid-week Independence Day holiday has reduced the number of scheduled Red Cross blood drives. Many sponsors, especially businesses, are unable to host drives because employees are taking extended vacations.

Unfortunately, patients don't get a holiday from needing blood products. The need is constant. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. Blood and platelets are needed for many different reasons, including accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, premature babies - when there are complications during childbirth - and for patients receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease.

"Every day, the Red Cross must collect more than 17,000 pints of blood for patients at more than 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country. Of that, the Heart of America Blood Services Region must collect approximately 500 pints per day," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the American Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region, serving Illinois, Eastern Iowa and parts of Missouri. "We need donors to make appointments in the coming days and weeks to help us ensure that all patient blood needs can be met. Each pint of whole blood can help save more than one life."

"There is always the chance that a physician could postpone an elective surgery if the needed blood products aren't readily available or, in a worst case scenario, have to forego a more serious procedure because of a shortage of blood," Heiden added. "Our goal is to ensure that doesn't happen."

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver's license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters;
supplies more than 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides
international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross
is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American
public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at
blog.redcross.org.

The American Red Cross' Live Life. Give Life. summer-long campaign is helping to raise awareness
about the constant need for blood and encourage regular donations. Presenting donors between May
21 and September 5, 2012 will be entered automatically into the Live Life. Give Life. promotion for
a chance to win prize packages from GiftCertificates.com. And, from June 29 to July 8, presenting
donors will be entered to win additional prize certificates to thank them for giving blood around the
Independence Day holiday. Visit redcrossblood.org/GiveWin to learn more.

Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities:

CARROLL COUNTY
6/29/2012, 12:00 pm- 6:00 pm, United Methodist Church, 405 E. Locust, Lanark

CLINTON COUNTY
7/13/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, American Red Cross, 1220 13th Avenue North, Clinton

HENRY COUNTY
6/25/2012, 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm, Courtyard Village, 860 Sunset Dr, Kewanee

6/27/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St., Kewanee

7/2/2012, 12:00 pm- 6:00 pm, First United Methodist Church S Campus Bldg, 224 N. State, Geneseo

7/2/2012, 12:00 pm- 6:00 pm, St. John's Church, Route 17, Woodhull

7/9/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, St John's Vianney Church, 313 S West Street, Cambridge

7/11/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, First Christian Church, 105 Dwight St., Kewanee

MERCER COUNTY
7/2/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, Alexis Community Center, 204 W. Palmer Ave., Alexis

WHITESIDE COUNTY
6/26/2012, 1:00 pm- 5:15 pm, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton

6/27/2012, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls

6/28/2012, 4:00 pm- 7:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls

7/3/2012, 2:00 pm- 6:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls

7/3/2012, 8:00 am-11:00 am, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton

7/10/2012, 1:00 pm- 5:15 pm, Old Fulton Fire Station, 912 4th Street, Fulton

7/10/2012, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, Carlson Acupuncture & Chiropractic, 2317 E. Lincolnway, Sterling

7/11/2012, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, Rock Falls Blood Donation Center, 112 W. Second St., Rock Falls

7/11/2012, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, Halo Branded Solutions, 1980 Industrial Drive, Sterling

7/12/2012, 3:00 pm- 8:00 pm, Tampico United Methodist Church, 202 Lincoln Ave, Tampico

7/14/2012, 6:30 am-12:00 pm, CGH Medical Center, 100 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling

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25 Jun 2012

Timber Lake Playhouse Spotlight on Erica Stephan

By Melissa Parsons

Erica Stephan, Resident Performer

Stephan Erica 2012.jpg

First Season at TLP

Role: Ariel in Footloose; Multiple Characters in Working; Ferguson/Dancer in Guys and Dolls

From: Glen Ellyn, IL

College: Webster University, St. Louis, MO

Last Role in College: Young Wife in Hello Again

 

Why did you choose to come to TLP?

"When I was thinking of working in the summer, the location was important. I like being "in the woods" here. It's like camping. I love being able to do theatre in this environment, it is the ideal theatre experience. Also, the roles I were offered were exciting and challenging."

How did you get started in theatre?

"I was in ballet from ages 4 to 18. I was in my first musical, Annie, in the eighth grade and played Grace. I was in musicals in high school. When I was Amneris in Aida that is when I knew I wanted to theatre for the rest of my life."

You were just in Guys and Dolls. What did you enjoy about being in that production?

"I loved being able to see how quickly a professional show comes together. I realized it in the first musical rehearsal. I saw how talented everyone is and what a strong ensemble we have. It was very exciting."

What is your favorite thing about being in the current show, Working?

"I love being able to observe the guest artists: John Chase, Judy Knudtson and Sharriese Hamilton. They have a different level of excitement and intensity that is interesting to watch. Acting beside them is a blessing."

Why should people see Working?

"Any person in the audience can relate to the characters. Not only is it entertaining but when you are able to personally connect to the characters onstage, it makes the experience more enriching."

How do you like working with guest director, Chuck Smith?

"He gives you a note in rehearsal, you make the slightest change and it brings a whole new life to a character. He makes it a really comfortable atmosphere to work in."

You are currently rehearsing the next show, Footloose. What are you looking forward to, being involved in that production?

"I am looking forward to dancing. Artistic Director, James Beaudry, is directing and choreographing the production. The company is so strong and comfortable with each other. It is like having a fun dance party when we are in rehearsals! I am also excited to work with TLP Alum, Karl Hamilton. He is known for his ATT flash mob commercial. I have seen him on television and it will be exciting to work with him."

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

"I am a huge Harry Potter nerd. I love the books and movies so much that I wish I was a wizard."

Working performs now through June 30th followed by Footloose, July 5th through 15th. Performances are at 7:30pm, Tuesday through Saturdays and there are 2pm matinees on Sundays and Wednesdays. New this season, there is also a Saturday matinee performance on opening weekends at 2pm. Tickets are available through the box office during regular business hours, 11am - 6pm daily, at www.timberlakeplayhouse.org or 815-244-2035. Timber Lake Playhouse is located at 8215 Black Oak Road, Mount Carroll.

Timber Lake Playhouse, What's Your Story?

This program is partially supported by a grant for the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

Production Sponsors are Kunes Country Auto Group and Compliance Signs.

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