140 year of Shriners

140 year of Shriners

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Golf News

Golf News for Tuesday, September 30, 2008 | Tournaments
Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open commitments

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Many players from the Tour Championship field have already committed to compete at the 2008 Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open which runs Oct. 13 – 19 at TPC Summerlin. The Tour Championship field is made up of the top 30 players in the FedExCup standings and is the final event of the PGA Tour Playoffs.

Briny Baird, Ken Duke, Dudley Hart, Ryuji Imada, Hunter Mahan, Billy Mayfair, Carl Pettersson, Kevin Sutherland, D.J. Trahan and Mike Weir are among those from the Tour Championship field who have committed to tee it up next month at the 26th annual Las Vegas TOUR stop. With the event less than three weeks away, tournament officials expect more top 30 players to commit to play in Las Vegas.

"Having so many of the top 30 players in the FedExCup standings already committed to our event is thrilling," said Gary Davis, chairman of the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open. "It is gratifying to see the players responding to our efforts to make the Las Vegas tournament a must on the Fall Schedule. Our mission of putting on a quality tournament that offers great enjoyment to the players while supporting a wonderful charity is truly being recognized."

Designated event parking is located on the west side of Durango between Washington and Vegas Drive. Dedicated courtesy shuttles will be running all day from the lot to TPC Summerlin, October 13-19. Daily and weeklong tickets are on sale now at www.jtshrinersopen.com or by calling 702-873-1010 and event day tickets can be purchased at the gate.

About the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open:
The 2008 Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open kicks off a five-year commitment between the two parties to continue the tradition of a PGA TOUR event in Las Vegas. The collaboration between Shriners Hospitals and Timberlake to act as Title Sponsor and Host (respectively) promises to create a truly unique and world-class event for players and fans alike. A host of well-known golfers and celebrities will participate in the competition to help support the Shriners Hospitals' mission, while enjoying the signature flair that Las Vegas has to offer. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Join the fun Oct. 13 - 19 at TPC Summerlin where both the serious and casual golf fan will applaud as some of the best players in golf combined with Las Vegas-style entertainment are showcased. The viewing is unsurpassed at THE HILL, a 22,000-square-foot luxury entertainment pavilion overlooking the 16th, 17th and 18th holes, granting stunning views of the course, Las Vegas skyline and Red Rock Canyon.

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN OPEN:
1680 Village Center Circle, Las Vegas, NV 89134, 702-873-1010, www.jtshrinersopen.com.

Shriners and Harvey's Chapel partner to provide for the needy

By JEFF MEEK Staff writer, www.hsvvoice.com/news/2008/1001/religion/113.html
It all started over six years ago when Hot Springs Village resident Carl Gann began a program of collecting used clothing and other items from the Wal-Mart stores in Hot Springs. The Village Shriners have continued the work ever since.

For the full story go the Hot Springs Village News,Az.

Al Kadar Dinner To Benefit Shriners Hospital for Children


2nd Annual Al Kader Auction

On Saturday, November 8th, Al Kader Shriners are holding their second annual auction and dinner to benefit Shriners Hospital for Children. Dinner will be at 7:00 PM with cocktails at 5:30 PM. Key Northwest Parrot Heads will be assisting us and adding to the evenings festivities.”

Al Kader Mustang


Win a brand NEW Ford Mustang

On December 20, 2008 at the Al Kader Shrine Center,Portland, Or. One lucky winner will drive away in a new Ford Mustang 2008 V6 Coupe. Raffle tickets are $5.00 each, and only 15,000 tickets will be sold!
www.alkadershriners.org/events/mustang2008.asp

Monday, September 29, 2008

Six children referred to Shriners Hospital for Children-Los Angeles

Antelope Valley Shrine Club Screening Clinic was not the biggest they have had, but of the Parents and Children who came, six were referred to Shriners Hospital for Children -Los Angeles. I guess we can consider it a success based upon the referral count, said Rick Stauning, President. plus the turnout of Nobles etc was great.

Shriners from Dewey & Phoenix

Andy Devine Days Parade begins winding through downtown at 10 a.m. Saturday

KINGMAN - It's that time again! The 38th Annual Andy Devine Days Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. Saturday on the corner of First Street and Beale Street in downtown Kingman.

A total of 115 entrants will make their way around the circular parade route tomorrow, starting down Beale to Sixth Street before making a left, going up two more blocks to Spring Street, then making another left and returning to First.

With so many entries this year, Kingman Superintendent of Recreation Keith Adams anticipates the parade will last about an hour and a half. "It's more (entries) than a lot of the years, but not the largest ever. I know there's been at least one year where we had more than that," Adams said. "Some entries might have 15 vehicles with them or three floats. Each entry's a little different."

But some entries are more different than others. While many of the familiar sights will be on display tomorrow, such as the Wells Fargo Stagecoach, a slew of classic and antique cars, and the various rodeo queens from around the state, Adams said at least a few of the entries were sure to surprise, particularly "Big Blue," a hand-built truck whose name describes it perfectly. "This thing's huge - you need a step ladder to get into it," Adams said.

Adams noted that teams of Shriners from as far as Dewey and the Phoenix/Valley area were slated to drive in the parade as well. "They'll be like a parade amongst themselves," Adams said, noting the sheer number of Shriners signed up.

The parade's theme this year is "The Over the Hill Gang Rides Again," a reference to the Western starring Kingman's favorite son, Andy Devine. The choice of that particular Devine film was no mere coincidence, either - it debuted in 1970, the same year the parade began.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Stars Line Up for Timberlake Tournament

KFI AM 640 Talk Radio, September 25, 2008
Several pro golfers have agreed to take part in Justin Timberlake's first charity tournament.

DAILY ENTERTAINMENT PHOTOS: Get the Latest Celeb Gossip!

Golfers David Duval, Rory Sabbatini and Jesper Parnevik have pledged to take part in Justin Timberlake's first charity tournament.

Timberlake will front the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas next month and the big names are bringing their big drivers.

The pop superstar is thrilled with the line-up for his first tournament, which has been declared an official PGA event, and he's itching to get out on the course with them.

The singer has only been golfing regularly for the past six years - but he feels as if he was born to play.

He says, "For me, golf is one of those things where you go out and forget about everything else... I remember I hit one amazing shot off the tee, straight down the middle. I got to thinking, 'Maybe I could play this game.'

"I'm self-taught. I'd watch Tiger and Ernie Els on TV and try to learn from what they did, but obviously I related music to it. The golf swing is very, very rhythmic. There's a certain tempo to it, just in like in music."

Sacramento Bee Kids Day

On Tuesday, October 7, volunteers will blanket the community in an effort to make a positive difference in the lives of children as part of Kids Day.

Kids Day is a community event to raise public awareness and funds to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children and is sponsored the Sacramento Bee in partnership with the Ben Ali Shriners and Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Volunteers take to street corners, schools, shopping malls and other locations to sell a special Kids Day edition of The Sacramento Bee that highlights the patients and programs of Shriners Hospitals for Children. The Kids Day papers sell for $1, and 75-cents of each dollar directly benefits Shriners Hospitals for Children.

“On Kids Day, people of all ages and from all walks of life have an opportunity to help transform the lives of children one dollar and one newspaper at a time,” said Margaret Bryan, administrator for Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento. “This event allows us to tell our special story and reach out to thousands of families who can benefit from the expert medical care provided by Shriners Hospitals.”

To learn more about Kids Day or to volunteer, call the Kids Day Hotline at (916) 453-2332. or see our special events page at: www.shrinershq.org/Hospitals/Northern_California/get_involved/events/.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Shriners Team Championship


View from the hill at the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

The Shriners 2008 International Team Championship will be postponed till 2009

We’re now open to friends of the Shrine. So get your team together! for the 2009 Shriners International Team Championship

This event is played in Conjunction with the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open. Don't miss this years JTShriners Open Oct. 13-18

Play the same pin positions the tour pro’s played the day before to greens that are almost as quick as your kitchen floor!

Contact your local Shrine Center ( http://www.shrinershq.org/Shrine/Temples/ ). Now Open to all Shriners and Friends of Shriners Hospitals!



Tom Lyttleton, Tournament Director, TomL@shrinersteamgolf.org

To contact us: Shriners International Headquarters, Membership Department

2900 Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607 813-281-0300

Shriners bring classic deuce coupes to town



The deuce coupes Shriners drove to town were equally as impressive on the outside as the inside.
Photo by jan Short

By Jan Short

"Just a little deuce coupe with a flat head mill, But she'll walk a Thunderbird like it's standin' still, She's my little deuce coupe, You don't know what I got"

The Beach Boys classic came alive Thursday evening at the Pacific Reef Resort as the Hillah Shriners rolled into town for their "Deuce Day Rod Run." Fifteen gleaming '32 Fords and their drivers gathered in Gold Beach for this fundraising event. They planned a full itinerary of hot rod fun activities with the bold black, blazing red and hot pink Fords.

Friday was the poker run. (Wikipedia defines a "Poker run" as an organized event using a motorcycle, boat, car or other form of transportation where participants travel over a predesignated route and, at designated stops on the route, draw playing card(s).

This group of die hard car enthusiasts started their poker run in the parking lot of Pacific Reef Resort, from there they went to poker stop No. 2 at Indian Creek; No. 3 Huntley Park; No. 4 Singing Springs Resort in Agness; and their final stop was Honey Bear for dinner.

Saturday was a trip up the river with Jerry's Jets and a tour of Sheriff John's Classic Car and Doll Museum.

The Hillah Shriners use this event to fund a transportation account for children who need to be treated at the Shrine Hospitals. Shrine Hospitals never charge for their services regardless of the economic situation! Transportation costs are prohibitive for some families and this is where the Hillah Shrine steps in with their transportation fund. They make it possible for families to get their children to the hospital for treatment.

There are 22 Shrine Hospitals including a brand new burn center in Sacramento. The Hillah Shrine will provide transportation costs for any family in Southern Oregon to get to the hospital that provides the treatment their child needs.

Scott and Diane Ivers have been participating in this event since its inception eight years ago. Scott has also participated on the boards of several Shrine Hospitals, most notably the Sacramento Burn Hospital. They are both passionate about the work the Shriners do. Scott's face glowed with pride as he described the Burn Center.

Scott drives a red deuce coupe. The body, frame, and headlights are original except for the fenders. This car is has a 350 Chevy engine and 350 tranny to give it some get up and go. Scott owns seven hotrods and is in the process of rebuilding a ‘57 Chevy pickup – smooth style.

Diane wanted to be sure to thank all the local businesses that made this event successful: Pacific Reef for the excellent lodging; McKay's Market for providing food for their first night; Jerry's Rogue Jets for all the information and the rides up the river on Saturday; Indian Creek Restaurant, Singing Springs, Honey Bear, Sheriff John's Car and Doll Museum and more.

She commented that everyone was helpful – ‘Gold Beach Style.'

“SHC-Galveston North,”

September 23, 2008

More than 170 employees of Shriners Hospitals for Children — Galveston attended a meeting at the Knights of Columbus Hall in LaMarque, Texas on Sept. 20, where they received tetanus shots, payroll information and hospital updates.

Galveston Shriners Hospital Administrator John Swartwout reassured employees that the hospital, which has a foot of water in its first floor, was being repaired and would open again as soon as possible.

Some staff members from the Galveston hospital are now temporarily reporting for duty to the Houston Shriners Hospital. A sign taped on the board room of the Houston Shriners Hospital now reads “SHC-Galveston North,” as both hospitals share office and medical space while the Galveston hospital is being repaired.

Damage to the Houston hospital was minimal and the hospital is now back to full operations, and at least three patients from the Galveston hospital have been admitted to the Shriners Hospital in Houston.

Getting back to normal has been difficult for both cities, but Shriners Hospitals leadership is working with all employees to ensure they get the assistance they need during this time.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Shriners offering health screening for children

This story appeared in the Antelope Valley Press Wednesday, September 24, 2008. By RICH BREAULT, Valley Press Senior Feature Writer

LANCASTER - Those wild-driving Shrine Club go-karters are driving for a purpose. Those Shrine Club clowns don't do what they do just for laughs.

"Our kart team drives in all the local parades to get the word out about Shrine Hospitals," said Richard Stauning, president of the Antelope Valley Shrine Club and a member of the club kart team.

"Our only philanthropy is Shriners Hospitals. Our club is involved in other things in the community, but our big project is supporting the Shriners Hospital for Children-Los Angeles."

To that end, the 130-member Antelope Valley Shrine Club will have free orthopedic, scoliosis and burn screening for Antelope Valley children 17 years old and younger to determine eligibility for no-cost treatment from Shriners Hospital.

The screening is slated from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday in Suite 1-F at 43845 10th St. West, across the street from Lancaster Community Hospital.

"It will enable us to reach out to children with many conditions who might not have access to hospital care for those conditions," Stauning said.

"The last screening clinic we did up here in the Antelope Valley was in 2004. We want this screening clinic to be the start of an aggressive campaign in the Antelope Valley. We plan to hold a screening clinic at least every other year, and hopefully once a year."

A 50-bed facility, it serves patients from Southern California, Arizona, Southern Nevada, New Mexico and Mexico.

Treatment is offered free of charge for scoliosis, back problems, club feet, dislocated hips, hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes disease, leg length discrepancies, amputation or deficiency of limbs, non-emergency fractures, orthopedic congenital deformities, orthopedic sports injuries, osteogenesis imperfecta, rickets, polio, musculoskeletal disorders; pediatric and orthopedic problems related to cerebral palsy, spina bifida, deformities due to burns, scar revision, reconstructive surgery, cleft lip and palate, microtia, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, arthrogryposis and genetics.

Dr. Ric Garrison, assisted by two nurses from the Los Angeles Shriners Hospital, will conduct the screenings. Children who are determined to have any of the qualifying conditions are offered a referral to the hospital.

For details, call Stauning at (661) 965-9338.

rbreault@avpress.com

DEFYING THE ODDS, ON AND OFF THE LINKS

Shriners Hospitals Ambassador Katie Walker takes on the golf world, promoting the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open

By Steve Brand, Los Angeles, CA – June 30, 2008 – As a Shriners Hospitals for Children ambassador, 19-year-old Katie Walker is truly an inspiration with her “can-do” approach to life. A passionate golfer, she helps put a face to the Shriners organization and their mission during the week-long Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.
“Working with Justin Timberlake to promote the tournament is such an honor, a real dream come true,” says Walker.

A patient at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Los Angeles since she was nearly a year old, Walker was born missing her left tibia, left kidney and faced other multiple congenital problems. She underwent her first set of surgeries to repair some of these problems when she was only weeks old.

As the focus turned to Walker’s orthopaedic challenge, a friend told the family about Shriners Hospitals for Children whose specialists determined that, in order to give her the best chance at walking, amputation of her left leg was necessary. Eight weeks post-surgery, she was fitted with the first of many prostheses through the hospital’s Child Amputee Prosthetic Project (CAPP).

Shriners Hospitals for Children – Los Angeles has continued to provide the orthopaedic care and prosthetics Walker has needed while growing up, all at no charge.

“Shriners is my surrogate family,” she said. “I know I can count on them if I need anything.”
With an affinity for sports, she has taken on snow skiing, ice skating, horseback riding and bowling, in addition to competitive golf. Walker says that her self motivation comes from believing that anything is possible. “I may do things a little differently than others, but that does not keep me from experiencing life to the fullest,” states Walker.

In high school, Walker discovered a love of golf and made the varsity team freshman year. Staff at the Los Angeles Shriners Hospital fitted her with a high-tech prosthetic that has a special torque-and-socket unit, allowing more range of motion in the hip and ankle, which consequently improved her golf swing.

During a high school tournament, Walker nailed a hole-in-one. Golf Digest magazine put the odds at any amateur accomplishing such a feat at 12,000-to-1.

Today, Walker is a sophomore in college, attending California State University Bakersfield on a golf scholarship. An outstanding athlete, Walker is also a talented singer who has performed since the age of 9.

In 2005, she recorded her first country music CD. Like so many other Shriners Hospitals patients, Walker has learned to approach life with a smile and enthusiasm, despite difficulties. Her confidence can be heard in her song, “Challenge Me,” which was inspired by life experiences.

Received Sept.24,2008 G-Wiz

Korean BBQ Lunch for Shriners Hospital for Children Employees

Chung Cheong Society of Southern California
Thanks SHC-LA Employees with a Korean BBQ Lunch

By Steve Brand, Los Angeles, CA – September 22, 2008 - The Governor of Chungcheong buk-do Province in the Republic of Korea, Woo Taik Chung, recently visited SHC-LA with members of the local Korean Chung Cheong Society of Southern California. The visit was to thank the employees of the hospital for the work that they do with Korean patients by providing them with a traditional Korean BBQ lunch. Approximately 3% of the patients seen at the hospital come from Chungcheong buk-do province. The province, which is located in the center of the Republic of Korean, is an up and coming technological center and is home to Chungnam National University.
In addition, Governor Chung and hospital Administrator Terence Cunningham signed a letter of friendship and cooperation between the people of Chungcheong buk-do and the employees of the hospital. Mr. Cunningham and John Lorant, M.D., Chief of Plastic Surgery at the hospital, were also made honorary citizens of the province. Employees were then treated to a traditional dance performance by Korean dancers, followed by a buffet lunch featuring many types of Korean food.

{photo caption – Woo Taik Chung, Governor of Chungcheong buk-do Province in the Republic of Korea, visits with residents of the province at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Los Angeles.}

Golf Ad for Shriners


Justin Timberlake’s Golf Channel TV Ad
September 23, 2008

Justin Timberlake has begun the national promotion of his upcoming golf tournament (benefiting the Shriner’s Children Hospital) with promotional TV ads on the Golf Channel.

In the humorous spots, Timberlake is depicted as a one-man grounds crew, preparing the tournament golf course in a meticulous fashion for the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, which will take place Oct. 16-19. The spots also include an appearance by PGA TOUR pro Duffy Waldorf, who whispers to Timberlake, “Dude, aren’t you taking this hosting a golf tournament thing kind of seriously?”

Conceived and produced by GOLF CHANNEL, the spots will run on the network during the next three weeks leading up to the tournament. Other than promoting the tournament, the motivation for producing the spots was to show the more than 80 million GOLF CHANNEL viewers in the United States that Timberlake not only has serious business interests in the world of golf, but - as a golfer himself with a single-digit handicap - he has serious game, as well. The spots were filmed Sept. 13 on a golf course in Carefree, Ariz., and at the tournament’s host course, TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nev.

Check out the Ad at www.thegolfchannel.com/core.aspx?page=26000&select2=10472

Monday, September 22, 2008

Shriners at IHOP

The Al Kaly Shriners headed to the newest IHOP, at Stetson Hills and Powers boulevards, for a week of pancake mania this month.

They clowned around, took photos and invited everyone to eat all the buttermilk pancakes they could.

IHOP's Pat Tennant was encouraging folks to eat up, and for every "all you can eat" order the store donated $1 to the Al Kaly Transportation fund to help families transport their children to any of the 22 Shrine Hospitals.

There was a pancake-eating contest, celebrity pancake eaters and other events. By week's end the contribution box had $404.81, and IHOP added $500, according to communications director Ralph Hathaway. Tennant has been invited to dinner at the Shrine Club for a proper thank-you.

Pets Used As Hospital Therapy


For many kids at the Shriners Hospital in Sacramento, pets can improve patients' health and well-being
By KFBK's Debra Greene go to KFBK.com to listen to the report.
Monday, September 22, 2008



Marty and Brazel are hospital volunteers. They even have their own name tags, but they're not the typical volunteer. One's a dog and the other is a bunny. They come to Shriners Hospital to brighten the days of patients: children with burns, orthoepedic conditions and spinal cord injuries.

Pet Therapy coordinator Kathy Bones says studies suggest this improves patients' health; lowering blood pressure and the need for medication.

About 20 animal volunteers, dogs, bunnies and cats, alternate so that at least one pet is on the premises everyday.

What a day at the Shrine Circus




Today we had a Great Day at the Circus! The Shriners Circus had come to town. I wasn't going to go because of the cost. My had missed a few weeks of work last month due to sickness and we are still trying to recover from that. But then my little boy came running into the living room with the flyer that had came in the mail and said Mommy Mommy its the circus and its here! He's 7 years and could read the flyer. Only 12.00 a person. And dad's off work today. So with the look in his eyes of excitement. How could I tell him no. I then decided we were going to the Circus. We all got ready and off we went. We arrived right on time with just a few minutes to spare. As I was getting out of the car and telling the children to hurry... were going to be late. We still need to get tickets. A lady said Hey I have 4 tickets I will sell you for 20.00. Thats 5.00 a ticket. She said that she had gotten them at work and her family could not come. So I then paid her. So we then just had to buy one ticket for 12.00. I was so Thankful for the extra savings and that I decided to take my children who had a great time.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Two Members of the 2008 Ryders Cup Team Sign Up for the Shriners PGA

Golf News for Friday, September 19, 2008 | Tournaments
Mahan and Holmes commit to play in Las Vegas' annual Tour event

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The 2008 Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open announces that two members of the prestigious 2008 Ryder Cup team have committed to play in Las Vegas' annual Tour event, October 13 – 19 at TPC Summerlin.

Hunter Mahan and J.B. Holmes will be among the players in Las Vegas; vying with a strong field for the $4.1 million purse. Mahan and Holmes were selected for the Ryder Cup team as captain's picks due to their stellar play over the past two years.

Mahan's achievements include: winner of the 2007 Traveler's Championship, member of the 2007 Presidents Cup and 2008 Ryder Cup Teams. He qualified for the TOUR Championship presented by Coca-Cola in 2008 with five top-ten finishes this year including a second place finish at the Traveler's Championship where he was the defending champion. Known as a great ball striker, he is currently ranked fourth on TOUR in that statistical category.

Holmes is a two-time PGA Tour winner with victories at the FBR Open in 2006 and 2008. He defeated Phil Mickelson in a playoff in this year's FBR Open. A member of the 2008 Ryder Cup team, he has recorded three top-ten finishes on TOUR this year. Currently ranked second on TOUR in Driving Distance.

Fall Festival Sept.27

Menzaleh Temple No. 16, Daughters of the Nile, will hold its annual Fall Festival to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27 in the Ben Ali Activities Building, 3262 Marysville Blvd., North Sacramento.

Festival attractions include a boutique, baked goods, jams and jellies and a book nook. Admission is free.

A pork luncheon at noon will be followed by a fashion show at 1 p.m. featuring apparel from Marilyn's of Auburn. Luncheon tickets are $15.

Reservations are required by calling (916) 422-4286 by Sunday.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Brother Charlie Walker


Longtime 'Opry' member Charlie Walker dies
By PETER COOPER •

Grand Ole Opry member and famed disc jockey Charlie Walker, whose shuffling, twinkling "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down" remains a country music standard a half-century after its recording, died Sept.12 in Hendersonville. Mr. Walker was 81, and had recently been diagnosed with colon cancer.

"The Grand Ole Opry family will miss our friend and Opry member," Pete Fisher, the Opry's vice president and general manager, said in a statement. "We are truly grateful for all of the musical moments he has shared with us on the Opry stage and over the airwaves as a disc jockey."

In 1958, Mr. Walker decided to record "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down," from the pen of an aspiring songwriter named Harlan Howard who was a forklift driver at a California printing factory. The song became Mr. Walker's signature hit and it was Howard's first commercial writing success. (Howard went on to write more than 100 Top 10 country hits and to become a Country Music Hall of Famer.)

Mr. Walker, a Grand Ole Opry member since 1967, made music that was rowdy enough for barrooms and that offered humor and edge. He often worked the latest part of the show on Saturday nights, and his was a voice of honky-tonk comfort for late-night patrons and radio listeners. Music dominated his life

He was born in dusty Copeville, Texas, and began singing when he was in high school. His interest in music continued even through his years in the United States Army. In 1951, he went on the air at a country station in San Antonio, and he became one of the nation's most important country disc jockeys. He was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 1981.

Not content merely to play the hits of others, Mr. Walker began his own career as a recording artist. "Tell Her Lies and Feed Her Candy" became a regional hit, and he made the national charts with the Decca single "Only You, Only You" before hitting big for Columbia Records with "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down."

Among Mr. Walker's most interesting records was a countrified cover of the Rolling Stones' "Honky Tonk Women." He also took advantage of a popular toilet paper commercial and recorded a song called "Don't Squeeze My Sharmon." The song wasn't a major hit, but it drew smiles.

Mr. Walker's skills extended to the movie set. He played singer Hawkshaw Hawkins in the 1980s Patsy Cline biopic, Sweet Dreams.

At the Opry, Mr. Walker sometimes carried notes to remind himself to send shout-outs to individual audience members who were visiting the program for the first time, or to those celebrating a birthday or anniversary.

Fisher said that this weekend's Opry shows would be dedicated to his memory.

Visitation for Mr. Walker was Tuesday at Hendersonville Funeral Home, Johnny Cash Parkway in Hendersonville. A Masonic service followed
His memorial service took place Wednesday at the Bluegrass Baptist Church in Hendersonville.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Al Menah Shriners in Mr. Walker's memory.

Al Menah Shriners
P.O. Box 78545
Nashville, TN 37207

Mr. Walker is survived by his wife, Connie; his 10 children, Ronnie, Cindy, Arthur, Charlie III, Elissa, Charlene, Catherine, Christina, Carolina and Charlton; and by 15 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Bicycle's given away at Circus

The Shrine Circus at WestWorld in Scottsdale

Direct from Las Vegas... the Jody Jordan Circus!
"A Sparkling Jewel Among Circuses of the World!"

The Grand March of all Shrine Units and Clubs is Saturday, September 20, 2008 at the 3:00 pm show

A boy's and a girl's bicycle will be given away at each performance!!!
Friday, September 19th 6:30 pm
Saturday, September 20th 11:00 am, 3:00 pm, and 6:30 pm
Sunday, September 21st 11:00 am, 3:00 pm and 6:30 pm

o ALL Tickets are $12.00 each, with a coupon get $2 discount,
coupons available at various locations (while supplies last).
o Children under 12 admitted FREE with a paying adult.
o Tickets are for box seating or grandstand seating.
o Tickets are available at the gate for every show!
o Tickets go on sale one hour before each show

Arizona Shrine Circus Dates, Locations, and Times

SEPTEMBER 17TH - Payson - Rodeo Grounds - 4:30 & 7:30 pm Shows

SEPTEMBER 18TH - Flagstaff - Coconino Fairgrounds - 7:30 pm Show

SEPTEMBER 25TH - Bullhead City - Fort Mojave Event Center - 7:00 pm Show

SEPTEMBER 26TH - Lake Havasu City - Sara Park Raceway - 7:00 pm Show

SEPTEMBER 27TH - Yuma - Yuma Fairgrounds - 6:30 pm Show

OCTOBER 6TH - Kingman - Mohave Fairgrounds - 7:00 pm Show

OCTOBER 9TH - Show Low - Thunder Raceway - 4:30 & 7:30 pm Shows

New Mexico Shriners drove 14 hrs to deliver Toys for the Patients

The Shriners of Ballut Abyad Shrine Temple in Albuquerque,visited the Shriners Hospital for Chlidren-Los Angeles on Sunday September 14th.

Nearly 50 Nobles and Ladies of the San Juan Shrine Club from Farmington, New Mexico and brought with them over $4,000 worth of toys and books for the patients of the hospital. The Club raised the money for the toys at their annual pancake breakfast.

The books were donated through the efforts of the local Farmington Waldenbooks bookstore and the manager of the store accompanied the Shriners on the trip.
The group drove 14 hours by bus to deliver the toys and books to the hospital.

Neil Schurman, President of the club and himself a former Shriners Hospital patient, expressed his thanks to all the staff of the hospital for the work that they do and urged all Shriners to come visit the hospital and see first hand what their philanthropy provides to the patients of the hospital.

Shriners Hospital for Children-Houston Reopening Thurs., Sept. 18

Shriners Hospital for Children-Houston, 6977 Main Street, is planning to begin treating patients again Thursday, Sept. 18, if the City of Houston reports that no contamination exists in the water supply.

Before the storm, the hospital scaled back operations last Thursday, Sept. 11, discharging patients and evacuating three patients who still required hospitalization to Dallas.

The Shriners system is also continuing to support employees during this difficult time, especially those hardest hit by this storm.

At this time, we are assessing the damage to the Galveston Shriners Hospital and do not know when normal operations will resume

Monday, September 15, 2008

Shriners Hospital for Children, Galveston Closed

By Alisa Stingley • astingley@gannett.com • September 15, 2008

Ike continues to disrupt the lives of evacuees in Shreveport.
Young burn patients leave local hospital

Four patients transferred from Shriners Burns Hospital in Galveston, Texas, to the Shreveport Shriners Hospital last week won’t be returning to the Galveston facility Tuesday, as originally planned, said Christian Berg, public relations director for Shreveport Shriners Hospital, an orthopedic facility.

The four patients are being released or transferred, he said.

Sylvia, who was featured in a Times story Saturday, was discharged this afternoon; and she and her father, Bennie Puente, were going home to Oklahoma with help from a Dallas relative, Berg said. The family lives in Tipton, Okla.

The other three patients and their family members will fly to Shriners Burn Hospital in Boston on Tuesday morning to continue care there. Two members of the Galveston medical team who accompanied the youths to Shreveport also will go to Boston. The other members of the team will return to their homes this week in the Houston area to reunite with their families even though Galveston is still not allowing residents to return, Berg said.

“We haven’t yet been able to get an idea as to the extent of damage the Galveston hospital may (or may not) have experienced,” he said. “However, with the extensive loss of utilities and disruption of supply lines into the area, we anticipate the hospital may be closed for the next few weeks.”

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Simi Valley Parade

I want to extend a thank you to everyone who made it this morning......

Cliff, Sam, Wayne, Randy, Tony, Al, Glenn, Leo, Rod and myself rode in the Parade. Some of the ladies, my wife Janet, Randy's wife Julie and Cliffs friend Tammy, accompanied us to breakfast at the Firehouse Cafe and later cheered us on towards the end of the route. 13 in total attended.

The Firehouse Cafe did a great job and had a table waiting for us when they opened. Naturally I was one of the last ones there because its a whole two minutes from house and thats when you have to wait for the light. Breakfast at the Firehouse was a really nice start to a good day! I am going to e-mail them a Thank You on behalf of the Shrine Motor Patrol. One of the waitresses that wasn't on shift this moring is the Worthy Matron from Simi Eastern Star and she's involved with Job's Daughters.

I believe this is one of the first Parades for Cliff and Sam with us and now they have improved their left turn abilities. Thank you for coming today brothers. We enjoyed your company and hope to see more of you at future events.

We were #27 in the parade so we got an early start and we completed it by 10:30 AM. Early enough for everyone still to enjoy the rest of the day, but to early to get lunch at the Hat for a pastrami. I thought the crowd really enjoyed the bikes in the parade. Not only did I see a number of neighbors and members of the community I know, but a few brothers along the route including the newest brother of my lodger whom I just raised on Wednesday night.

The parade committee also gave us passes to the carnival which several of you gave to me. My wife quickly distributed these to a number of families we know and they were put to good use. One family in particular would not of been able to go otherwise. So thank you brothers on sharing those with me.

It has definitely been a good day for me - until of of course I decideed to walk rather than drive down to the carnival and know my legs hurt.

I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on September 27 for the Solvang Ride and/or Oct 4 for the Adobe Reyes Parade in Westlake/Agoura. Please fell free to bring guests and friends along for Solvang. And one last reminder, Paso Robles is just around the corner (Oct 11). Make sure to get a room reservation.

Sincerely and Fraternally, Jay Monroe

Friday, September 12, 2008

PGA Tour chief says city must get behind tourney

World of Golf
Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open commitments

LAS VEGAS -- The 2008 Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open is attracting some of the best golfers in the world for the 26th annual Las Vegas PGA TOUR stop. Spectators will have the opportunity to cheer on a stellar professional field as they vie for the title and the $4.1 million purse.

This year's event has received commitments from players such as Mike Weir, Jesper Parnevik, Bubba Watson and Chris DiMarco. Additional player commitments will be announced in the coming weeks.

Gary Davis, Chairman of the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open enthuses, "We are thrilled with the early commitments that we are seeing from some of the best all-around players on the PGA TOUR. Our event attracts a strong field because the players enjoy the first-rate experience provided with a spectacular golf course, lively crowds and plenty of world-class entertainment and dining options. Our tournament has an impressive history including Tiger Woods' first PGA TOUR victory in 1996. Other legends like Greg Norman and Jim Furyk have made their mark in this event as well."


PGA Tour chief says city must get behind tourney

By STEVE CARP, REVIEW-JOURNAL

Tim Finchem PGA Tour commissioner wants fans, businesses to better support the Las Vegas tournament

The PGA Tour claims it wants Las Vegas to succeed as a host city for one of its tournaments. But the organization is not ready to do the single biggest thing many believe would help the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open achieve success: move the tournament from the fall to the spring.

Commissioner Tim Finchem said before that can happen, the city has to demonstrate to the Tour that it will support professional golf.

"We want to make things work in Las Vegas," Finchem said by phone Wednesday as preparations continued for the Oct. 13 to 19 Tour stop at TPC Summerlin. "We want to grow the community's involvement, particularly the business community. What we need to do is break through and have people come out."

That has been the major challenge for tournament organizers. Playing in mid-October, the tournament faces stiff competition from people who follow and wager on football and would rather track their bets than some golfer trying to keep his Tour card.

"Las Vegas has its own unique set of challenges," Finchem said. "It's the shows. It's the casinos. There's so much to do. But a lot of tournaments do well in the fall, and we think it can work there."

Tournament chairman Gary Davis said the ultimate goal is to be in the FedEx Cup chase.

"They've said to us we need to do three things," Davis said. "First, we have to generate more fan support and more support from the business community. Second, we have to do a better job in raising dollars for charity. Third, there has to be an available date.

"We think we have a great charity with the Shriners Hospitals. We also think Justin will help generate bigger crowds. If we do those (first) two things, eventually, they'll find a date for us in the spring."

The Tour had an opening in mid-May 2009 when it decided not to return to Atlanta for the AT&T Classic. However, it opted to move the Valero Texas Open in San Antonio, which this year is being played the week before the Shriners Open, to the spring.

"We can always look at that," Finchem said of moving Las Vegas from the fall to the spring. "Right now, the first thing is to build a solid event."

Finchem said he thinks the changes in the format, including eliminating the pro-am and playing the tournament at one course, ultimately will help the event attract a better field.

"I think it's a step in the right direction, and it's important to make it as good for the players as possible," Finchem said.

Still, getting the top players to come to Las Vegas after the FedEx Cup remains a huge challenge. Right now, there's little incentive for players such as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, golf's two biggest names, to want to compete here. The Shriners Open comes three weeks after the Tour Championship has been decided, and a purse of just $4.1 million won't convince the best players to commit.

"It's a chicken-and-egg thing," Finchem said. "You want to create the best possible event, and that, in turn, will hopefully generate a better field."

With a five-year commitment from the Shriners, Las Vegas' Tour stop has much-needed stability. Finchem said it's time for the community to take the next step and show it wants the event to stay.

"Charity is an important element, and the Shriners Hospitals are a great partner on the charity side," he said. "Las Vegas is a city that likes sex appeal, some star power, and to have Justin Timberlake lend his name to the event we think will attract a new, younger demographic to golf.

"Las Vegas is a city we want to be in. It's grown so much over the years we've been coming there. We think it has got the size to host a tournament, and we think there's a great future there."

Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com

Sabbar Shrine cornfest, fair is Sept. 13.-14

The public is invited to Sabbar Shrine's annual Cornfest and Art & Craft Fair on Saturday, Sept. 13, and Sunday, Sept. 14.

Breakfast of eggs, bacon, hashbrowns will run from 7 to 10 a.m. and lunch of hamburgers, hot dogs, corn, beans, biscuits and gravy from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost for either is $6 per person. Admission is free.

The fundraiser events will start at 9 a.m. both days at the Shrine, 450 S. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, and end at 5 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Proceeds are non-deductible.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Shriner recycling program benefits hospitals



Herb Stewart poses next to the Shriner recycling bins.

Provided by: Esther Copeland

Contributed by: Erin Feese/YourHub.com on 9/11/2008

Lakewood resident Esther Copeland believes in doing her part by recycling. When she heard about a nearby location that would take items that her curbside pickup would not, she decided to check it out.

"I want to recycle more, and this is a convenient location," said Copeland, who lives in the Westgate neighborhood. The recycling bins are location near the Wal-Mart at 7900 W. Quincy Ave.

One day when Copeland was dropping off some items, she met Herb Stewart, who was closing the lids and tidying up the recycling area.

"I told him, 'Thank you for doing this,'" Copeland said.

The recycling program is run by Shriners from the El Jebel Shrine, and Stewart has been involved with the program for about 12 years, he said.

Stewart, a Littleton resident and retired teacher, takes care of the bins within the Littleton area. The Wal-Mart location is his largest, with 14 bins, and he has about 70 bins throughout Littleton.

"I believe in what I'm doing, I believe in recycling," he said.

All proceeds from the recycling program benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children, Stewart said. He recently went with a group of Shriners to visit one the Shriner hospital in Salt Lake City and said it was a very touching experience.

"When the bins are full, it's exciting for me, because the profit goes to the hospitals," he said.

About 38 Shriners are involved with the program and meet once a month, Stewart said. There are locations all throughout the metro area.

Copeland said she wants to get the word out about the program because of the benefits to the community as well as the hospitals.

"I want to convince my friends who don't recycle at all to start," she said. "I truly believe that, in this day and age, if we all did our part we'd have far less problems."
Visit http://eljebelshrine.org/recycle.htm for a complete list of locations

Motor Patrol Ready to Roll


SIMI VALLEY PARADE

SATURDAY, 9/13, 2008

LINE UP IS AT 8 AM

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Eagle County coordinates free children’s health clinic

Eagle County, Co. Public Health will coordinate a free health screening clinic for children suffering from burn injuries and orthopaedic conditions.

Shriners Hospital for Children volunteers, along with local orthopaedic doctors and nurses, will examine patients from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 13 at Vail Summit Orthopaedics.

All patients ages birth through 18 with orthopaedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries and cleft lip and palate are eligible for admission and will receive care in a family-centered environment at no charge — regardless of financial need and citizenship status. The clinic is designed to examine children and determine if they have a special health care need that can be met by Shriners Hospitals.

Shriners Hospital for Children is a leader in pediatric specialty care. The screening clinic will include support staff from two community partners: Vail Summit Orthopaedics and Steadman Hawkins Clinic. The El Jebel Shriners of Denver are sponsoring this event.

For information contact Eagle County Public Health at 970-748-2014 or 970-471-6991.

Wounded Iraqi Boy Arrives Shrines Hospital for Children Portland For Medical Care



By Kristian Foden-Vencil Portland, OR September 10, 2008

A six-year-old Iraqi boy, who lost a leg in a missile attack four years ago, arrived at Portland International Tuesday.

He’s here with the hope of getting a prosthetic leg and correcting other medical problems. Kristian Foden-Vencil was at the airport to greet the boy's flight and files this story.

About 60 people, carrying everything from toy helicopters to stuffed animals, gathered to welcome Mustafa – a boy they’ve never met.
They carried signs and wore yellow T-Shirts saying "Ask me about Mustafa."

Zhaha Hassan, a Palastinian American, brought a toy racing car and her 5-year-old so Mustafa could have a friend.

Zhaha Hassan: “I really wanted to welcome Mustafa and his father into the community another well wisher, Muhammed Baghdadi, of the ‘Iraqi American Community of Portland,’ says he’s working to find Mustafa’s father an apartment for the stay, as well as a cell phone. Baghdadi says helping Mustafa is a drop in the ocean.

As Mustafa and his father came out of the gate spontaneous applause erupted and they flocked around the pair.

After pictures and a gift exchange, Mustafa’s father Ahmed was asked what it’s like to get such a welcome.

Ahmed's Translator: “He said: I’m very happy to be in the place that I need to be in the most to help my son.”

Abed and his mom were returning from a visit to a medical clinic near Fallujah in 2004 when they were caught in the attack.

Mustafa’s injuries mean he needs a colostomy bag and he's missing his left leg from the hip down. Ned Rosch, of the charity ‘No More Victims,’ helped organize the visit.

Shriners Hospital and local doctors and nurses are volunteering to fit Mustafa with a prosthetic leg -- and to perform diagnostic surgeries to see if the colostomy can be reversed, allowing him to move his bowels normally again.

The hospital has also offered to fit a new leg every two years until he’s fully grown. Rosch says helping Mustafa is the primary goal.

Mustafa is the first child ‘No More Victims’ has helped in Oregon. About a dozen other kids have been looked after by other medical communities around the country.

Shriners plan weekend yard sale

Written by Editor,Lake County News,Ca
Tuesday, 09 September 2008

LUCERNE – The Lake County Shrine Club will hold a fundraiser yard sale in Lucerne this weekend.
The sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday at the Lucerne Clubhouse, 6319 E. Highway 20.

The sale promises to offer interested buyers just about everything, said Jim Swatts, a member of the club and the sale's organizer. For more information call Swatts, 998-9253.

Great Falls Shrine Golf Tourney set for Sept. 21

There are plenty of spots open for the 14th annual Montana Shrine Open golf tournament, to be played Sunday, Sept. 21 at Eagle Falls Golf Course.

Proceeds from the tournament go to fund opera­tions at the Shriners Hospital for Children in Spokane. The tourney has raised nearly $150,000 for the hospital in its existence.

The tourney format is individual stroke play for men and women, and all players will use the Peoria handicap system to equalize opportunities.

Entry fee is $85, or $60 for golfers with Eagle Falls season passes. Fees include golf, motorized cart, prizes and an awards banquet.

Golfers can sign up at Eagle Falls or they can call tourney director Bob Rowe at 452-6709 or John Hayes at 590-5646.

Timberlake Ushers In a New PGA Tour Era In Las Vegas While Eyeing a Fed Ex Cup Date




September 9, 2008--The week of October 11-17, 2008, will mark the first days of a new era in Las Vegas professional golf: the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open era. And while tournament organizers are confident that this year's event will be filled with new excitement and a new format, and big names and big fun, they have made it known to the PGA Tour that they want a new date that comes within the FedEx Cup schedule. Both Douglas Maxwell, the Imperial Potentate of the Shriners, and Justin Timberlake have sent letters urging PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem to think about Las Vegas when and if a slot on the schedule opens. "We've made that well-known that that's what we want to do," says Tournament Chairman Gary Davis. "Changing the format of the tournament was step one to getting into the FedEx Cup. So hopefully that will take place in the future. We're working very hard to make the tournament something that the PGA Tour is proud of, that the Tour players want to come to, then obviously our next step is to get inside the FedEx Cup." Las Vegas pros Chris Riley and Charley Hoffman (pictured) attended a press conference at TPC Summerlin to help announce the changes and other info.
View the official JT Shriners Open website for 2008 ticket information.

Timberlake is headlining several events during the week including a pro-am on Monday, a celebrity pro-am on Wednesday and a clinic with Las Vegas' Butch Harmon on Saturday. The clinic is open to the public and will take place at TPC Summerlin following play on Saturday. And he is hosting a concert on Friday night at Planet Hollywood that will feature several high-powered celebrities performing with him.

The format for the tournament is now four competitive rounds at one golf course (TPC Summerlin) with the amateur events taking place before the actual pro competition. Davis says that Timblerlake was very much behind the change in format, and empathized with PGA Tour pros as to what it might be like to play with an amateur during an actual competitive round (the old format had two amateurs playing with two pros over two courses during the first two rounds ).

Davis remembers speaking with Timberlake about the format very early on in meetings regarding the tournament: "One of the comments that Justin made during the initial negotiations to get involved with this tournament that I thought was very appropriate was that, 'You know, when I am up on stage performing, the last thing I want is a PGA Tour pro chipping up on stage; so I'd like to come out and participate, but I don't want to be in their way when professional play starts on Thursday morning.' So I thought that was a pretty professional attitude, and one that I think is embraced overall. So we're looking forward to that."

Riley and Hoffman say more pros are discussing the Las Vegas event, and that several of the bigger names are looking to play in Las Vegas this year. Organizers confirmed that Mike Weir, Jesper Parnevik, Bubba Watson and Chris DiMarco are entered, while Riley let it be known that Davis Love III, the 1993 champion, is intending to play. Riley also sees a future where a certain injured golfer could make another appearance in Las Vegas.

Image "I played a practice (round) with Davis Love and he confirmed to me he was coming," says Riley. "He told me he was playing. I played with him in Greensboro a couple weeks ago. (And) I'd love to see Tiger get here. I think Las Vegas -- I think the format will help Tiger. I know he's shied away from playing with all the amateurs, (but now) I think it's good fit for Tiger to come here. I mean he loves Las Vegas, and he's the best player in the world, so we'll see what happens after he gets over this injury.

Tiger won his first PGA Tour event at the 1996 Las Vegas Invitational when he defeated Love III in a playoff. He came back and unsuccessfully defended his title in 1997, but hasn't returned. Playing in Las Vegas shouldn't be a big deal for Tiger because his annual charity event--Tiger Jam--is held here, and his trainer, Keith Kleven, lives here.

Hoffman also thinks the format and the excitement of having Timberlake involved can't help but have a positive impact. "Hopefully the format will make it better," says Hoffman. "(And) Justin Timberlake brings a different side to it. I think you'll get a few more players that didn't like the Pro-Am aspect of it. Hopefully we can get Adam Scott, a former UNLV player, to come. I talked to him last week and he's definitely thinking about coming, which is a nice change instead of, 'no, I'm not coming.' So at least you are getting guys to talk about it now. With a good sponsor like Shriners and Justin, I mean, people are talking about coming to Las Vegas and playing golf again instead of, 'no, I don't want to deal with a Pro-Am at the end of the year', or 'I don't want the do that', or 'I don't want to play three different courses or two different golf courses.' I think it's good thing to have one golf course and no Pro-Am and a celebrity like Justin to bring guys to the tournament."

And Davis says that if all else fails, the event has an added enticement to secure some of the bigger names play in Las Vegas in 2008. "We've also got the secret weapon this year with Justin contacting a lot of the TOUR wives and inviting them to Las Vegas," says Davis with a laugh. "So that's very helpful."

"Once in a while a rare opportunity comes your way that you simply cannot afford to pass up," Timberlake has been quoted as saying about agreeing to become a celebrity host. "That is what happened to me when I was approached about becoming involved with the PGA Tour's Shriners Hospitals for Children golf tournament in Las Vegas. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be associated with a charity that for nearly 85 years has provided some of the best medical care in the world, free of charge, to more than 835,000 children and to partner with the PGA Tour and its players."

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

RJ Mitte Acts From Experience

Fifteen-year-old RJ Mitte has worked hard to overcome the effects of cerebral palsy.
He’s done so well that, at first glance, his disability isn’t noticeable.
But, in his role on the AMC television series “Breaking Bad,” his symptoms are much more pronounced – a tribute to RJ’s acting skills.
A chance encounter with a Shriner who noticed RJ walking on his toes – and falling – when he was 3 years old led RJ and his family to Shriners Hospitals for Children — Shreveport.
There, physicians recommended a casting procedure instead of the surgery suggested by RJ’s physician.
Since that time, RJ and his family have made routine visits to the Shreveport Shriners Hospital, where RJ continues to undergo therapy to increase dexterity and range of motion in his hands and legs. Working extensively with Assistant Chief of Staff Philip Gates, M.D., and the hospital’s physical, occupational and speech therapists, RJ has improved tremendously, negating any need for surgery.

“He’s doing phenomenal with the exercises the therapists have given us,” RJ’s mother, Dyna, said. “We do stretching, exercising and, from time to time, we go back into a cast here and there. It’s a continual process, but never any surgery… we were very
fortunate to work with Dr. Gates.”
At age 13, another chance encounter changed RJ’s young life. A talent agent happened to spot RJ’s younger sister, Lacianne, and expressed interest in representing her.
When other agents began to notice the striking 4-year-old, the family selected a manager for her. “We went in with Lacianne, and the manager asked why she didn’t have
RJ, as well,” Dyna recalled. “I explained his situation and she said she wanted him – that he had the perfect look and was a great kid.”
Almost immediately, RJ was cast in television roles and background appearances in two films. Eventually, he landed the role of the smart-alecky son of terminally ill school professor Walter White in AMC’s edgy new series “Breaking Bad.” Making RJ uniquely suited to the part is the fact that the character has cerebral palsy, RJ Mitte, Star of “Breaking Bad” Photo courtesy of Witt Entertainment Management and Russell Bear
although with more pronounced symptoms than RJ’s. “It’s hard and easy at the same time,” RJ said. “I never used crutches, so I had to learn how to use them, and I had to learn to slur my speech more.”
The role proved a perfect fit. This past spring, RJ was in contention for an Emmy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama. In addition to receiving critical acclaim, RJ now finds himself inspiring countless fans who face similar obstacles.
“I get fan letters all the time that say ‘my son or daughter has CP and they
are inspired by you and thank you for what you’re doing’,” RJ said. “It’s really
nice knowing that.” Despite his rigorous schedule, RJ still makes regular visits to the
Shreveport Shriners Hospital, and plans to use his newfound connections to help raise funds and awareness for the health care system.
“If I hadn’t gone to Shriners Hospital, I wouldn’t be able to walk or talk as good as I do,” he said. “I really want to give back.” www.shrinershospitals.org

RJ Mitte has to amplify his own symptoms of cerebral palsy for his role in the television series “Breaking Bad.” Here, series director Vince Gilligan (left) and RJ work on aspects of stepping from a vehicle when using crutches. Photo courtesy of Witt Entertainment Management and “Breaking Bad.”

Monday, September 8, 2008

Random Acts of Kindness

Shriners Tickets bought 3 got 3 given to me

While out shopping last week, I came upon a Shriners raffle table. I happened to purchase 3 tickets to the Shriners Draw for Kids 2008 annual raffle. Tickets were 3 for $10. Paid for 3 tickets and while filling out my ticket stubs, a very nice man (complete stranger to me) from Oregon told me to fill out 3 more.

I asked him his name and he told me there were not for him. That I was to fill out 3 more with my name on them. I refused of course and tried to decline the kind offer. However, he was very happy to have me fill out 3 more and insisted I do so with my name on them. He then handed one of the Shriner Volunteers some money and told them he was buying them for me! Thank you BOB!

I eventually did put my name on them, and walked away with 6 tickets instead of the initial 3 I had purchased. He told me that I looked like I could use some help…as I was driving our old Ford Tempo and it sounded like it was on it’s last cylinder…He was happy that I accepted his gift and I was very happy to be the receipent. Now here is hoping I win that truck!

Check Out this web site www.icscooltobekind.com

New Game Donated to SHC Hawaii

Spreading the aloha

Oceanside woman leaves biotech career to create Hawaiian-themed board games

By Leah Masterson | leah.masterson@tlnews.net

In the 1970s, Tupman lived in Hawaii and studied tropical agriculture at the University of Hawaii. She worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture soil conservation service in Hilo helping local farmers conserve their resources.

“I really fell in love with the culture and the people,” said Tupman, adding that at one time Hawaiians were jailed for practicing their own religion, chanting and doing the hula.

“Even back then the culture was being lost. People don’t understand that history, but their own culture was being outlawed. I said some day I really want to do something to keep the culture alive.”

Her solution: a board game.

She began researching and four years ago started Akamai Games. She created a basic idea for two games: Pele’s Perils, for ages 4 and older, and ’Ohana Mana for ages 8 and older. Both are based on board games that have lasted the test of time: Parcheesi and Chutes and Ladders.

“We’re planning to donate games to Kapi’olani (Medical Center), Shriners Hospital (For Children) and Ronald McDonald House Charities in Hawaii,” said Tupman. “We’re basically spreading the aloha.”

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Grand Marshals(Masons) for the 15th year

The Annual OLIVER HARDY FESTIVAL in down town Harlem, Georgia will be Saturday 4 October, 2008, with the Sons of the Desert Reception Friday Evening October 3rd.

This will be the 15th. year in a row for the Look-A-Likes from Ohio to be a part of this Annual Community Event and to preside as Parade Grand Marshals, including a week of beening in costume at various locations.

[In 2006, at High 12, and in the center of the public activity, Bro's. Dale and Dennis were presented HONORARY MEMBERSHIP CERTIFICATES from HARLEM LODGE # 276 F&AM of Harlem, Ga.]
[ Brother Oliver Hardy was a life long member of SOLOMON LODGE # 20 at Jacksonville, Fla.]

The Look-A-Likes have been featured in four Travel Brochures since July 2002 Promoting: Harlem, Ga., The Laurel & Hardy Museum of Harlem, Ga. ( The only Laurel & Hardy Museum in America and the third such museum in the world.) and the Annual Oliver Hardy Festival.

The traveling public that visits the Georgia I-20 Travel & Information Center at Augusta, Ga. will see a almost lifesize color photo of the Look-A-Likes, This photo is the second edition.

The Look-A-Likes have a Georgia Connection, as the Grand Father of Dennis (STAN) Moriarty, Dennis J. Moriarty, lived and worked in Atlanta, Ga. and is buried in the Westview Cemetary. Our Hero, Oliver Norvell Hardy's mother; Miss Emmie Norvell, Tant, Hardy, Jackson is intured at the Westview Cemetary also. Dennis's late father George E. Moriarty lived his teen years at Smyrna, Ga.

Dale Walter Sr. (OLLIE) and Dennis Moriarty (STAN) have been the Look-A-Likes since the fall of 1992.

[ As long time Masons; Dale is a Candidate Degree Coach and Dennis is TYLER, both members of TRINITY LODGE # 710 F&AM at Canton, Ohio. Dennis holds a Demit from TADMOR SHRINE of Akron, Ohio]

Dennis and Dale as Stan & Ollie held the RED RIBBON for the cutting and official Dedication of the Laurel & Hardy Museum of Harlem, Ga. Monday Morning July 15th. 2002.
The Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of the museum was seen world wide on CNN.

You-al can read what others have printed about the Entertainers by letting your search engine ( Yahoo, Google, etc.) look for the following:

Sparkie & Look-A-Likes; Dennis Moriarty & Dale Walter;
Sparkie the Clown, Canton, Ohio; and K8AGB
Then, ONLY, Click on the web sites that feature Dale Walter & Dennis Moriarty.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Iraqi Boy Arriving at Shriners Hospital for Children, Portland

Iraqi Boy In Oregon For Medical Care

By Kristian Foden-Vencil Portland, OR September 8, 2008 3:24 a.m.

A six-year-old Iraqi boy, who lost a leg in a U.S. missile attack four years ago, is scheduled arrive in Oregon Tuesday. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports.


Mustafa Abed and his mom were returning from a visit to a medical clinic near Fallujah, when they were caught in the attack.

Since then, Mustafa’s injuries mean he needs a colostomy bag and he has no leg from the hip down.

Ned Rosch, of the charity ‘No More Victims,’ says the group wants to both help Mustafa and put a human face on the Iraq war.

Ned Rosch: “90 percent of the hospitals are without supplies. Many of the doctors have fled or been murdered. So the health situation is dire in Iraq. For four years now he’s needed help that he just can’t get.”

Shriners Hospital and local doctors and nurses are volunteering to fit Mustafa with a prosthetic leg -- and to perform diagnostic surgeries to see if the colostomy can be reversed.

Spinal Fusion Surgery at Twin Cities Shriners Hospital


This is an Item picket off another web site that I thought all Shriners would like to see.http://www.spinalsurgery365.com/2008/09/spinal-fusion-surgery-at-twin-cities.html
Spinal Fusion Surgery at Twin Cities Shriners Hospital
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Most people don't know where to turn to if they are having back problems. The best thing to do is to take care of it as soon as possible before it becomes to late.

By taking care of it too late I mean that you may have to go into extensive surgeries that you wouldn't have had to if you had of taken care of it on time. Spinal fusion surgery at twin cities Shriners Hospital is available though if you need the surgery.

There are many hospitals that offer spinal fusion surgery, but only some give you the quality of work that you need. It is important to go to a hospital where the staff really knows what they are doing and take care of you. For spinal fusion surgery at twin cities Shriners Hospital, you are in luck. Your back is something you should take pride in, because without it, you will never walk.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Los Angeles County Fair Masonic Booth


Brothers. This year at the Fair is really shaping up better then the past years.
I have five opens dates left to fill.
Thursday Night 5-11PM Sept 11th
Sat Nite Sept 13th 5-12PM.
Sunday Night 5-10PM Sept 14th
Thursday Night 5-11PM Sept 18th
Friday Day 11AM-5Pm Sept 26th
Sunday Day 10AM-5PM Sept 28th
Any help will be appreciated. Thanks Gene

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Charity Golf News

Golf News for Wednesday, September 3, 2008 | Charity
Red Rock Resort supports Shriners Hospitals for Children Open

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Tournament Director Mark Gardner announced that Red Rock Resort has been named host hotel to the 2008 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open which takes place Oct. 13-19 at TPC Summerlin. As host property, Red Rock Resort will provide a world-class backdrop to various events during the week-long tournament.

"We are delighted to partner with Las Vegas' hottest off-strip resort and the location is perfect for tournament participants and spectators alike, just minutes from the golf course," said Gardner.

Red Rock Resort opened in April 2006 and is the first billion-dollar property to be built off the Las Vegas Strip. The resort was inspired by the natural beauty of neighboring Red Rock Canyon and the elegant desert oasis resorts reminiscent of the mid-20th century. The property is a return to classic Las Vegas, reinterpreted for the 21st century with a contemporary design and the latest amenities, comforts and technology. It features more than 800 guest rooms and suites; an array of nightlife options, including CHERRY nightclub; a 16-screen movie theatre; 9 restaurants; a 25,000-square-foot, full-service spa and Red Rock Lanes, a 72-lane bowling venue. For more information, visit www.redrocklasvegas.com

About the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open:
The 2008 Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open kicks off a five-year commitment between the two parties to continue the tradition of a PGA TOUR event in Las Vegas. The collaboration between Shriners Hospitals and Timberlake to act as Title Sponsor and Host (respectively) promises to create a truly unique and world-class event for players and fans alike. A host of well-known golfers and celebrities will participate in the competition to help support the Shriners Hospitals' mission, while enjoying the signature flair that Las Vegas has to offer. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Both the serious and casual golf fan will applaud as the best players in golf combined with the very best in Las Vegas-style entertainment are showcased. The viewing is unsurpassed at THE HILL, a 22,000-square-foot luxury entertainment pavilion overlooking the 16th, 17th and 18th holes, granting stunning views of the course, Las Vegas skyline and Red Rock Canyon.

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN OPEN:
9525 Hillwood Drive, Suite 140, Las Vegas, NV 89134, 702-873-1010, www.jtshrinersopen.com.

Free orthopedic clinic Oct. 25

The Nile Shrine Center and Golf Club will offer a free clinic on Oct. 25 for children 18 years or younger who may require orthopedic care. The screening will last from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Any children found to have a treatable condition, such as scoliosis, neuromuscular disorders, or other hand, back, hip or feet problems, will be referred to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Portland or Spokane, where all medical care is provided free of charge.

The Nile Shrine Center and Golf Course is located at 6601 244th St. SW, Mountlake Terrace. For questions or more information regarding the Oct. 25 screening clinic, contact Jim Brokaw at 425-774-9611, ext. 611.

Great Falls man Falls

Great Falls man charged with embezzling from charity

Updated: Sep 3, 2008 03:04 PM
Reporting for KRTV in Great Falls
Reporting for KRTV in Great Falls
Also on the Web Shriners Hospital - Spokane

A Great Falls man accused of embezzling $55 thousand dollars from the Shrine charity football game that he managed made his initial appearance in court today.

78-year-old Jerrold Vaughn Evans faces charges of theft embezzlement for allegedly writing checks to himself out of the East-West Shrine Game account.

At the time, Evans was the chairman of the annual charity football game that raised money for the Shriners hospital in Spokane.

The game's treasurer found the discrepancy, and after an accounting audit in June Evans told a private investigator he took the money to cover his gambling and alcohol problems.

Evans could receive a $50 thousand dollar fine and up to ten years in prison.

Monday, September 1, 2008

Nurse Eudcation Conference at Shriners Northern California

School & Community Public Health Nurse Education Conference

School nurses from throughout Northern California, Oregon and Nevada are invited to learn how Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California can be a resource to them. The conference will be held on Friday, September 12, from 8:15 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the hospital’s first-floor auditorium, 2425 Stockton Boulevard in Sacramento. Free parking is available in the hospital garage.

Presented by Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California in partnership with the Ben Ali Shriners, the School & Community Public Health Nurse Education Conference will focus on the referral process services and follow-up care of Shriners patients. Topics and presenters include:

* Access to Care, presented by BJ Bartleson, RN, MS, CNNA, director of patient care services, and Audrey Watkins, referral center manager
* Burn Services by Catherine Comroe, RN, PNP
* Spinal Cord Injury and Rehabilitation Services –by Katrina McGinnis, RN, FNP
* Scoliosis Screening Tips & Techniques presented by Jeannine Shaffer, RN, BSN
* Transitions & School Services presented by Margaret Kugler, MS, vocational counselor

All participants are invited to tour the hospital after the conference. Deadline for registration is September 1, and a $25 registration fee must accompany all registrations. Participants are eligible for 5 contact hours of continuing education credits approved by the Board of Registered Nursing.

For more information, download the conference brochure and registration form or contact the hospital’s staff development department at (916) 453-2191 or ncal.education@shrinenet.org.