Thursday, October 21, 2010

Everyone a Winner

45,900!
Amazing!
45,900 of you came together on Saturday, October 16, to declare that We > Me, that you are the winning strength in the battle against breast cancer.

And what a glorious day! And what warm, loving, generous beings you all are. It was evident in the way you walked hand in hand with your family and friends; it was evident in the hundreds of men who lined the street to encourage their loved ones; it was evident in the teams who participated this year.

Take a look at the winners of our largest Teams categories--so many people wanting to help came together as teams. I wish we could list every single team, for you all deserve gold, no, pink stars.

And without further ado, our winners are:
Corporate (& largest):       Blue Team--AR Blue Cross Blue Shield
School team:                        UAMS Cancer Institute
Hospital team:                     JRMC
Financial/investment:      Simmons First
Community team:              Hot Pink Tomatoes
Small Business:                    Barbara Graves Intimate Fashions
Non Profit team:                 SPP Power Puffs
Government agency:        Milli's Pink Love
Church team:                       St. Mark Baptist Church
Social group/org:               Team Elliott-Joyce Elliott for Congress
Public relations/media:   The Paper Dolls--AR Democrat Gazette

And, we can't forget your creativity! The tee shirts that we received for the team t-shirt contest---wow--once again it was very hard picking just three! But we managed to narrow it down, and the winners, in no particular order are:
Rainwater, Holt, and Sexton
ATC Scientific Beauties
Arkansas Federal Credit Union

Check back tomorrow for pictures.

Thank you, our participants, our sponsors, our volunteers, our fundraisers, our survivors, our race committee, our staff, our TEAM CAPTAINS.
Thank you, Donna Easley, our 2010 Chair.
Thank you Ed Drilling and Anthony Lucas, our honorary 3 Miles of Men Chairs.

Yes, We > Me. Not just in October, but all year long.
May you all, all 45,900 winners that you are, be blessed with love, good health, and happiness, and may we all meet again next year on October 22.

Cheers!
Judi

Awards and team t-shirts are available in Jill's office. Please email teams@komenarkansas.org if you would like to get yours.

And remember that fundraising is open through November 16. There are still awards to be won.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

What time is it?

Correction! Correction please!
Please mark your calendars for 5:30pm on Friday for the Pasta Party at Dickey Stephens Park in North Little Rock. I was trying to get the party started earlier and said 5pm in the blog yesterday, but please note the CORRECT time will be 5:30pm.

There really is so much going on this weekend! If you need any transportation around town, the CATA bus decorated with this year's theme is still running, and the PINK Yellow Cab is still available as well. The Union Pacific Pink Ribbon locomotive is still here on display at 1000 W. 4th in North Little Rock, and finally, American Airlines' Pink Ribbon plane will be here tomorrow morning (Friday) at the airport.

Friday at 5pm, the Pink Duck Walk will be happening at The Peabody. If you've not seen the ducks at The Peabody, Friday will be THE time to see them as they stroll down their pink carpet!

After the Duck Walk, stroll on across the river to the Pasta Party which will begin at 5:30pm at Dickey Stephens Park. There will be lots of great food furnished by Romano's Macaroni Grill, soft drinks by Coca Cola, and The Rockets will be on hand for the musical entree. We may have a special song by a very special group, so come on down for a very fun evening!

Saturday after the race, you know you & your team will be ready for a wonderful brunch--why not check out "Put a Fork in It" at www.komenarkansas.org and head for one of the restaurants mentioned there? Those establishments participating on Saturday will give part of their proceeds to Komen. Or, check out the 6K Cafe brunch hosted by the Little Rock Junior League. You can check out all the details at the Komen website.

But remember, the most important thing to do is to make sure YOU are registered for the Race! The Race Space is still open until 2pm on Friday; after that, you can register at the Race. VERY IMPORTANT: if you or anyone you know is planning on running in the Elite Runner category, you MUST be registered and in the corral by 7:30AM. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Thank you all for participating, and, if you see a young woman wearing a pink veil in the race, please give Audrey Gillis your best wishes. She is participating in the Race this year in memory of her mother, and then later in the day Audrey will be getting married!!!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

time is drawing near

I can not believe it--this is Wednesday of Race Week!
So much is going on, and so much has happened.....

Today (Oct. 13th) is the LAST day to register online. You will need to go pick up your shirts & race bibs at the Race Space or the Registration Table at the Race.
The Race Space will close this Friday at 2pm sharp, so if you need Pasta Party tickets, pink postcards, or any other items, please remember the Race Space will close early.

3 Miles of Men: ladies, please remember to get the men in your life registered as well! They will get their own special tee shirts, and the first 100 men to show up at Capitol Smokehouse on Race Day will get a free breakfast!

Also, with every registration we get, that shoots us closer to being the THIRD Largest Race of its kind in the world! Don't you want to be part of something so awesome? Not only will we move into third place, but that also means more money for funding mammograms, mobile mammography units, more research, more lives that will be saved, all because of your generosity.

Also, today through Friday evening, the Union Pacific Pink Ribbon Locomotive will be at 1000 W. 4th in North Little Rock if you'd like to go see it. It will leave here on Race morning, close to the beginning of the race.

The Pasta Party will begin at 5pm this Friday evening! Food will be provided by Macaroni Grill, and entertainment by The Rockets. Please make plans to attend; tickets are $20 each, and a fun time will be had by all!

Don't forget--you can raise money by texting the word KOMEN to 20222. You can text up to 3 times, with $10 going to Komen each time.

Also, if you would like to bring out the interior decorator in you or your group, we still have some Port a Potties available for $100 each! Contact Komen for more info on this fun project.

Lastly, we would really like to thank all of our sponsors, our volunteers, our participants, families & friends who help make this Race such an awesome event. There is a lot of hard work that goes into the making of the Race each year, and we would not be able to do it without you all.
You are very special; thank you for being part of the Komen family.

See you this weekend!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Weekend scene.....

Wow--it's Friday already, and so many things to do and see this weekend.

First, the 3 Miles of Men kick off with their Tailgate Party at Diamond Bear Brewery!
Party time is tonight from 5 - 7pm, and Larry's Pizza will be providing lots of delicious pizza, which can be washed down with free beverages from Diamond Bear.
Tell the men in your life to get busy and REGISTER! Then, come on down to 323 Cross Street in Little Rock for a rollicking good time with free refreshments, entertainment and prizes!

Do real men wear pink? Yes m'am they do--and you can see for yourself Saturday morning from 10 am to 2pm when the Dancing Firemen from the LRFD will be showing off their new uniforms for the Race, and also the men from the NLRFD will be showing off their wonderfully pink fire engine.
So if you haven't registered for the Race, that will be a GREAT excuse to get on over to the Race Space!

And, if you would like more ways to have fun this weekend, and still donate to Komen, here are a few ideas:

Crown Plaza Room for a Cure - Take Breast Cancer Lying Down!
October 1 - October 31, 2010

The Crown Plaza Hotel in Little Rock has decorated a guest room in all pink! Pink sheets, pink towels, pink rugs, everything pink! 50% of the $150 nightly rate will be donated to Komen for every night the room is booked. For more infomation, call the Crown Plaza Hotel at 501-223-3000.

Heather Owens Photography
October 1 - October 31

Heather Owens will donate 20% of the fees from a regular photo session and 20% of the fees from a mini-session on October 9th. Contact Heather for more information and to make an appointment at 501-786-0116.

Trivia Marketing Team T-Shirt Printing
October 1 - October 15

Trivia Marketing will donate $1 for every Race for the Cure Team t-shirt they print. Trivia Marketing also has design skills to help you develop your team name and t-shirt design. Call Todd Moen at 501-376-9999 for more information.

Bale Chevrolet 2011 Chevy Camaro 2LT Package with Pink Stripes
October 6 until....

Bale Chevrolet has produced a one of a kind 2011 white Camaro outfitted with pink stripes and the Komen Running Ribbon that is for sale. 100% of the profit after expenses will be donated to Komen. Call Bale Chevrolet for more details at 501-859-6262.

Have fun this weekend, and don't forget: with every registration we are closing in on moving up to being the 3rd largest race of its kind! The 17th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is NEXT weekend; make sure you and your loved ones are registered!

Thursday, October 7, 2010

information

In the last few days, I am sure you all have been made aware about a situation concerning a university and the Susan G. Komen foundation.

Vickey Metrailer, President of the Arkansas Affiliate Komen for the Cure Board, sent out a letter, which she has given permission to share with us on the blog. It is below:

Dear 2010 Race for the Cure Committee

Many of you have probably heard about or seen the media clips/blogs/facebook posts, etc. on yesterdays issue involving Harding University. First let me say that Harding has historically been very supportive of our affiliate, in particular hosting a walk on alumni weekend with proceeds sent to us. In addition, the president of Harding's wife is a breast cancer survivor and a RFTC participant.

Background Facts: NO national dollars or Arkansas Affiliate dollars go to Planned Parenthood. However, a few affiliates award grants to Planned Parenthood for clinical breast exams and mammograms. These grants are generally in areas where the Planned Parenthood clinic is the main medical provider for economic or geographic reasons. Komen dollars can only be used for breast health issues and all grants are carefully scrutinized to insure all dollars are being utilized properly.

Yesterday a Harding student demanded that items benefiting SGK for the Cure be removed from the bookstore shelves because of Komen's affiliation with Planned Parenthood. Somehow, Channel 4 and 7 were tipped off and covered the removal of items. Last night, Sherrye was on 4 and 7 accurately explaining the Komen/Planned Parenthood relationship and Sherrye has been interviewed today by 11 and KARK.

As of now, Sherrye has spoken to the President of Harding, the items are back on the shelves and Harding is issuing a statement supporting Komen.

Remember to register for the race.....we have a real opportunity to be #3 in the world.

As always, thanks for all you do.
Vickey

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We believe passionately in the work being done with breast cancer, and we appreciate your support, your generosity, and your faith in us.

Monday, October 4, 2010

countdown has begun....

The countdown has begun! I hope everyone is just as excited as I am---the 17th annual Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure is less than 2 weeks away.

The Kids for the Cure race was held Sunday--over 500 children signed up to race around the Capitol grounds on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. A big thank you to all who participated; and kudos to all who volunteered to help.

This Friday will be the 5th annual 3 Miles of Men Tailgate Party! Are the men in your life signed up for 3MOM? This year the party will be at the Diamond Bear Brewery from 5-7pm, and Larry's Pizza will be providing great pizza and Diamond Bear the beverages. There will be prizes, music, and entertainment...so if your hotties aren't signed up, make sure they are by Friday!

Also, the 3MOM will get their own complimentary tee shirt when they register. On Race Day, the first 100 men to show up at the Capitol Smokehouse will get a free breakfast catered by the Smokehouse owners. Plus, they are directly on the Race route, so all the guys will have a great vantage point of cheering on the women racers as they come down Capitol Avenue.

Don't forget---the absolute easiest way to raise money for Komen? By simply texting the word KOMEN to 20222. You can text up to 3 times, and each time you do, you will donate $10 to the Komen foundation.

Last but not least, if you have friends or family who still need to register, they can go to the Race Space at the Pleasant Ridge West shopping center in west Little Rock (just behind Carino's.) We have lots of great volunteers just waiting to help everyone register, buy a few goodies or buy tickets to the Pasta Party! So stop by and visit won't you? We'd love to see you!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Kids, Shopping, & Being Pink

Hi y'all--are you all getting ready? The Race for the Cure is almost here, and there are so many activities and events...

This weekend is going to be full!
Do you have your little ones registered for the Kids for the Cure? Their race will be this coming Sunday, October 3rd, from 2-4 pm, on the grounds of the State Capitol. There will be other activities going on, so please make plans to attend--your family will have a rollicky good time! You can also register at the event. We'd especially like to thank Burger King and KATV for their sponsorship of Kids for the Cure.

Are you looking for somewhere to register your children (or yourself), plus get a little Christmas shopping in on the side? Well, look no further than Komen's own Race Space! We are so excited to have the Race Space opening this Friday, October 1st, at 10 a.m. This year we are pleased to announce the Race Space will be in the Pleasant Ridge West Town Centre, (behind Carino's) at 11525 Cantrell in west Little Rock. The ladies at the Boutique (at the Race Space) have all kinds of wonderful pink ribbon items! You can choose from picture frames, jewelry, t-shirts, glasses, sweatshirts, bags, etc. A good way to get started on your holiday shopping; plus you are donating to a great cause.

While you are there, don't forget to register the men in your family for the 3 Miles of Men. They will get their own t-shirt; plus, they get a tailgate party October 8th at Diamond Bear brewery with plenty of Larry's Pizza to boot! And on Race Day, the first 100 men who show up at the Capitol Smokehouse will get a free breakfast. I work across the street from the Smokehouse--they are a nice bunch of folks who serve up some pretty good 'cue!

So get your racing shoes broken in--you're going to need some comfortable footwear with all the activities we have planned between now and October 16th! (If you need some new tennies, make a beeline to Go Running! They will help you out with some great new gear for Race day.)

Last but not least--be sure to wear PINK on Friday, October 1st. Why? Because our very own governor Mike Beebe has declared Friday to be Arkansas Go Pink For the Cure Day! He is encouraging all Arkansans to wear pink to promote efforts for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Please let everyone in your life know this by passing along this info to your family, friends, churches, businesses--let's cover this state in PINK on Friday, October 1st!

WE > ME; let's band together and be each other's WE and support each other in the search for a cure.

I'm going PINK, are you?

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Hot Time in the City

A question:
What do firemen and Race for the Cure have in Common?

Answer: First off, let me give a big shout out to the wonderful fire fighters who responded to an apartment fire at my complex last night---they came in (6 trucks!!) and proceeded to tackle the fire which they contained very quickly. Guys- Great job! But, all the while I'm standing there watching them work, I'm thinking, "WOW! These guys are REALLY hot (yes, I actually thought that!) I wonder if these will be the Dancing Firemen that have been the "Hot Spot" during the Race for the Cure?!" Whew, if they are--ladies, we are in for a treat!! 3 Miles of Men, all I can say, your work is cut out for you--the competition is on!

And with that, let's catch up with the latest Komen news hot off the presses!

A month from today--can you believe it--people from all over will be pounding the streets of Little Rock-NLR for the 17th Annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.
Have you registered yet? Teams offline registrations are due today, so Team Captains, if you have paper registration forms for your team, please get your info and money to us ASAP--thanks!

Yesterday we had our last meeting at the Komen offices before the Race--next month we will be meeting during Race Week at the Race Space. Your Komen committee members have been on fire getting preparations ready for the Race.

Another big shout out goes to the volunteers who have worked so hard getting the shirts folded and ready for mailouts; to Donna's friends from AT&T who helped get the warehouse ready for us; the people who located the warehouse for us to use; to Trane for the cooling systems--thank you all! If you would like to volunteer to help at the warehouse (2225 Cantrell, by Cajun's) or to sign up to help at the Race Space, contact the Komen offices.

Also, thank you goes to Regional Recycling who has signed up to be not only a sponsor, but will bring pink recycling containers on Race Day. So don't throw away those plastic water & food containers--look for the pink bins!

Also, big thank yous to Kristi & Windstream for mailing out the fundraising tee shirts. (Want one? Raise at least $150, send in the money to Komen, and you'll receive a great shirt! the more $$ you raise, the better chances you have for winning some fabulous prizes!)

Needing to work off some of those summer pounds? Fitness for a Cure is happening Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6:30-7;30pm at War Memorial Stadium. The online fitness program, which is new this year, has 322 participants signed on! (Debbie Hall--I'm rooting for you!)

And if you are walking around downtown -- take a ride on our bus! CATA has a pink & white Komen bus this year, decorated with our theme "WE > ME". It looks great.

The Kids for the Cure has 230 children registered so far! If you have kids 12 and under, be sure to note October 3rd on your calendars. The Kids for the Cure race will be happening that day at 2pm on the State Capitol grounds. A fun time will be had by all! If you would like to volunteer, or have a booth for the event, please let the Komen office know.

And, if you have money just burning a hole in your pocket--the Race Space will be opening on Friday, October 1st! The space this year will be in the Pleasant Ridge West Shopping Centre on Cantrell (behind Carino's). The Boutique ladies assure us there will be great Komen products again this year. Remember--Christmas isn't too far away--you can do some Yuletide shopping now AND help a good cause. Volunteers are also needed to man the Space--if you can help in the afternoons during the week, we would love it! (Who knows--maybe some of those hot firemen will stop by to register for 3 Miles of Men!)

Speaking of 3MOM, ladies--please encourage your hotties to sign up. We are looking for more groups to entertain the Race participants--if your group juggles, plays music, has dancing firemen, whatever your talent--we want YOU! come join in the fun October 16th.

3 Miles of Men will have a Tailgate Party hosted by Diamond Bear brewery on October 8th, and, on Race morning, Capitol Smokehouse will be serving up breakfast, topped off with Craig O'Neill as the emcee. And, with The Buzz 103.7 on board as well for the Race, a fun time is guaranteed!

Also,word on the street is that Arkansas' own Governor, Mike Beebe, has started his own 3MOM team this year; Republicans--you going to let the Democrats one up you? Green Party, Tea Party--show your spirit as well!

Paint the Town Pink has had a few businesses showing their pink spirit already. If your business would like to donate time on your electronic billboard for Komen, we would love to have you sign on!

And if you really want to get the word out to your customers, "Adopt a Block" and "Tinkled Pink" are some really good ways to have 45,000+ potential customers see your advertising during the Race. Contact Komen for more information.

Remember too--that after the race, all these runners/walkers will be hungry and thirsty. So Restaurant people, participate in "Put a Fork In It". You will get LOTS of business & help Komen at the same time!

Speaking of food, the Pasta Party people are putting some final touches on their preparations. They do still need some "hot boxes". If you have any items you would like to donate for the silent auction that night, we'd love to hear from you.

More food-yummmmm! We want to thank Golden Corral for catering to our Survivors again this year. Also, the Survivors Luncheon volunteers are looking for wicker baskets, door prizes, and items for goody bags; if you would like to donate any, please let us know.

If the thought of all this food is going straight to your hips, The Little Rock Marathon people have a deal for you. Sign up to do the Marathon for the Cure when you sign up for the 2011 Little Rock Marathon (or half marathon, relay team, or 5K). You can raise funds for Komen as you run/walk the marathon. Training is going on now to get participants in shape; contact Komen or the Little Rock Marathon organizers for more info. 17 people have signed up so far--why not join them?

Finally, big hugs and much sympathy for our Chair, Donna Easley, and her family. Donna's father recently passed away. Donna, we know he is so proud of you--and you can bet he's going to be watching all the activities on October 16th with your mom from the best seat in the house.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Teams--this is it!

Team Captains--
Are you ready?
Do you have your spreadsheets all done?
Just a gentle reminder-- the deadline for turning in the offline registrations with your spreadsheet is September 16th. Which, by my calendar, is less than 24 hours now!

If you need help--please contact us at teams@komenarkansas.org
and we will be happy to answer questions.

Online registrations have until October 1st if you want your shirt mailed directly to you; October 13th to pick up your shirt at the Race Space. (Which opens October 1st in the Pleasant Ridge West Shopping Centre behind Carino's.)

Now, get those registrations in and then relax. (But not for too long--Tbyrd is expecting you at War Memorial stadium!)

Friday, September 10, 2010

Ice Ice Baby

Wow--hasn't this been a hot summer?!

How would you like to cool down a bit this weekend? Come on over to Arkansas Skatium this Sunday, September 12, for a really special treat.

The Diamond Edge Figure Skating Club, along with Baptist Health, is sponsoring the 10th annual Skate for the Cure from 1 to 4 pm. This event, which benefits the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation, will feature a short exhibition show by up and coming national pairs ice champions Ashley Cain and Josh Reagan.

So strap on your pink skates, break out your parka and head over to 1311 Bowman Road in Little Rock this Sunday. Admission to the event is $10, of which $8 goes to Komen. Even if you've never skated before, you'll be having a lot of fun while raising money for the fight against breast cancer.

See you there!

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Fitness for the Cure

All right Ladies--

This is Labor Day weekend; we know everyone has enjoyed lots of your sweetie's barbecue, your gramma's chocolate pie, and washed everything down with sweet tea!

So, your jeans feeling a bit snug about now?? Well, Komen has just the solution for you!
Join us Tuesday Sept. 7th at 6:30pm at War Memorial Stadium--Tbyrd will have you walking those pounds off in no time.

The 2nd annual Fitness for a Cure begins this week, and you can join in as we walk, run, and learn great new tips about exercise and fitness.
Simply register online for $10, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the next 6 weeks Tbyrd and friends will help you get ready for the Komen Race for the Cure.

Live outside of Central Arkansas? New this year is a free online fitness program for those not able to make it to War Memorial.

For more information check out the Komen website, www.komenarkansas.org.
See you Tuesday!

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Stop the presses!

Several folks from Komen were on the road this morning announcing the formal Kick Off for the 2010 Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure.

On KATV, the design winner for the Kids Race for the Cure shirts, Owen Silzer, was on their morning program. And over at Today's THV, Matt Propst and Errin Dean were promoting 3 Miles of Men.

Then, at 10:30 on this warm summer day, Donna Easley, Sherrye McBryde, Anthony Lucas, Herren Hickingbotham and Ed Drilling announced that the 2010 Race for the Cure was open for business!

There is a great need in our poor rural state for mammograms. There are 25 counties in Arkansas that do not have fixed mammography services. Thanks to a new mobile mammography unit through UAMS, over 1000 women in 11 of those counties have been able to get mammograms and 9 were diagnosed with breast cancer. That is 9 lives saved! With your support, hopefully in the near future, all 75 counties in Arkansas will have access to mammograms for their residents.

A new way for everyone to donate this year is by texting the word "Komen" to 20222. $10 will be donated each time. You may text 3 times, but don't forget to save one of those times for Race Day!

To find more information about Race Day, please go to www.komenarkansas.org. Please sign up for the Race for the Cure while you are there.

And if you think you're not in shape to do the race, just think again! Tjuana Byrd (Tbyrd), for the 2nd year in a row, is heading the Fitness for a Cure at War Memorial stadium on Tuesdays & Thursdays starting September 7th. The cost is $10, and you can sign up when you register for the race. If you don't live in Central Arkansas, but still would like to participate, there will be a free online Fitness program as well.

You can sign up as a runner, a walker, or if you like sleeping in, you can still register and get a tee shirt to sleep in on Race Day!

And get the guys in your life involved as well. 3 Miles of Men is a great way to get them on our team. They get a snazzy shirt, free tailgate party at Diamond Bear Brewery with free pizza from Larry's Pizza & beer from Diamond Bear! And, they get to hobnob with our very own former Razorback Anthony Lucas.... I think I hear my family now logging on to register!

The most important thing, though, is you being a part of the Komen family. With all of us working together, we are greater than just one.

WE > ME

Join us, won't you?

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Press Conference

Extra! Extra! Komen Arkansas to hold Press Conference!

Be there on August 11 as Donna Easely and the rest of the Komen crew holds the Komen Race for the Cure Kick Off press conference at the History Pavilion by the Junction Bridge, just to the left of the base of the Bridge on the Little Rock side (in Riverfront Park).

It will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning and we hope to see you there!

Remember, WE > Me; let's make it a reality!

Thursday, July 22, 2010

sizzlin' news

I am staring out the window, watching the clouds going by. It looks cool and peaceful, but we all know that isn't the case--summer is sizzling out there--and so are the Komen folks! They are buzzing about like bees, so let's jump in and get started with all the news.....

We had our July meeting yesterday (July?! already?) and we had some proud grandmothers announcing the births of their newest grandchildren! Sherrye McBryde and family welcomed grandson Miller (photo below) this week and Shelia Vaught's family welcomed a brand new granddaughter. Congratulations all! It was good to see Amy Treadway back in the fold--lots of hugs to you, Amy.


Now, down to business:
Kids for the Cure design contest has a winner--Owen, a preschooler from the Anthony School. Thanks to our judges from Channel 7 and Burger King for choosing the winner. There were some awesome designs, so I know the judges had a hard time just picking one. Be sure to look for Owen's drawing on the website. Don't forget, the Kids' Race for the Cure will be October 3rd on the State Capitol grounds. Kids who register will get a tee shirt with Owen's winning design. Click here to see the design.

On Sunday, July 18th, Mary Margaret and her crew held an awesome Team Captains Party at the Patrick Henry Hays Center in North Little Rock. Around 150-200 team captains were there to gather Race information, eat Papa John's pizza and win door prizes generously donated by Dillard's! We appreciate Channel 7, Today's THV, and Fox 16 for covering the event. A good time was had by all. If you weren't able to attend Sunday's soiree, please visit the Komen website at www.komenarkansas.org for all the latest news, registration info, blogs, and Facebook pages.

TByrd and her group will continue Fitness for a Cure this year, along with an online Fitness Program for those who do not live here in Central Arkansas. To register for the program here, please register and pay your $10 online. This is limited to the first 500 people. The online program will be no charge.

Changes for the Pasta Party include an earlier starting time at 5:30 pm, up a half hour from previous years. Why the change? Well, you'll just have to be patient and keep an eye on the website! We do need items for the Silent Auction, so if you would like to donate something, please contact us at Komen. Thanks! We're also looking for one or two portable cooktops to borrow.

August is just around the corner, and that means you will find Donna, Sherrye, Emily and many others gathering at the Junction Bridge for the Kickoff Press Conference. Join us, won't you, at 10:30 a.m. on August 11th? We'll see you there.

Men! Registration for 3 Miles of Men is now open! What do you get when you register? A smokin' hot 3MOM tee shirt, and a chance to entertain, encourage and amuse 45,000+ ladies! There's also a Tailgate Party, hosted by Diamond Bear Brewery, which will be happening on October 8th. Contact Matt Propst at mjpropst@pinnaclebsi.com for all the 3MOM happenings!

Tinkled Pink--who doesn't smile at that? Let's encourage our teams to plonk down $100 to be decorators for the day! I know I visited a decorated port-a-potty last year--and even tho I knew that there was a line outside, I had to linger a bit to check out all the pictures & chotchkes that were inside. It certainly tinkled me pink!

Errin Dean had lots of news for us at this gathering. First off, did you know that you can now raise money for Komen by texting? Send "KOMEN" to 20222 and you will have instantly donated $10. You may text up to 3 times, $10 each time. Remember to save 1 of those times so you can text in and donate on Race Day, October 16th.

And if you are visiting any of your doctors between now and September 6 2010, encourage them to be involved with "Doctors for The Cure". For $1000, your doctor will have their name included & prominently displayed at the Survivor Luncheon and Breakfast; they will have their name included in the recognition of "Doctors for the Cure" on the Komen website; they will receive a "Doctors for the Cure" tee shirt, and will also receive a framed certificate of appreciation for participating in the program. For more information contact Amy Treadway or Donna Easley, and encourage all your doctors to be involved.

Also, for $1,000, your business, team, you, anyone can have their name or logo painted on a block along the race route. A pretty inexpensive way to have at least 45,000 potential customers!

The Hot Pink Heroes Luncheon was held June 30th at Cajun's. The people honored were the top fundraisers for last year's race. Honorees included Danielle Smith, who holds "Ropin' For A Cure" every year in memory of her late mother B.J. This year the top 5 fundraisers will win some fabulous prizes--so join in the fun! For starters, $150 will get you a fabulous pink & white "We > Me" tee shirt. A spiffy way to stay cool and stylish while raising money, doncha think?!



And this summer and fall, while you are riding the CATA buses around town, be sure to look for our Komen breast cancer awareness messages inside all the buses and trolleys.

Stay cool!

Peace & hugs,

Judi

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Party!

where will the hippest, coolest place be on Sunday, July 18th?

Why, the Komen Team Captain Party! Come join us for lots of fun, information, and maybe a door prize or two.
The party gets underway at 2pm at the Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center in North Little Rock, and lasts no later than 4pm.
Dress comfortably and casually, and come meet with other team captains, ask questions, learn about activities and events centered around the Race for the Cure.

Log on www.komenarkansas.org to for more information and to download your 2010 Team Captain kit.

We are looking forward to meeting with everyone!
remember, WE > Me.
Let's team up to beat breast cancer once & for all.

Cheers--

Judi

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Circle of Life

Life is a circle; while some are rejoicing new beginnings, others may be mourning an ending...and so it goes with our Komen family.
We would like to extend our condolences to Amy Treadway Iacaboni in the loss of her husband, Vince, and to Sue Mosely in the loss of her mother.

As the circle goes round, we are ecstatic to learn that our Elizabeth in the Komen office is pregnant!

And as the circle continues, we are proud to announce that Online Registration just opened! Jill Winholt explains in an email:

First stop is www.komenarkansas.org. Look around and see what's going on with the affiliate. When you're ready, place your cursor over Komen Race for the Cure so that the menu pops up below. From there, click on Race Information and then Team Information on the right of the next page. This will take you to the Teams page where you can find all of the information you should need regarding teams. Be sure to download the Team Captain Kit.

When you're ready, click on Register on the left side of the page. If you are going to be the Team Captain, you will need to register first and get the team set up. Then your team members can join the team. Of course, this is assuming that you are registering online. If not, information is in the Kit to register offline.

Also, we have a team blog that you might want to check out: http://arrftcteams.blogspot.com and we are on facebook with a group for captains: AR RFTC Team Captains. We also have pages on facebook for the affiliate and Three Miles of Men: Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Arkansas and Komen for the Cure Arkansas- 3 Miles of Men.

Yell if you have any questions. Email us at teams@komenarkansas.org. Or better yet--join us for the Team Captains' Party on July 18th! It will be at the Patrick Henry Hayes Senior Center in North Little Rock at 2pm.

And if you get all hot & thirsty waiting for the party, stop by Planet Smoothie and pick up a Pink Promise Smoothie. Part of the proceeds will go to Komen.

Erin Dean, our Sponsorship chair (and Soiree Cover Girl!) announced that sponsorship is going well. The AT&T Pioneers have raised $3000 as well. We are looking for more Race Friends and Block sponsors. If you or your company would like more info, please contact Komen and we will be happy to help you.

Our very own Elizabeth Owens who blogs for us at Komenarkansasblog.com has been contacted by Better Homes & Gardens for a feature. Elizabeth is looking for more survivor stories, personal stories, etc. Please contact her with your information. Who knows? You may be reading about yourself or your family/friends in an upcoming issue.

The Kids for a Cure tee shirt contest drew 280 entries....a lot of talented young artists, which makes it so hard to choose a winning entry. Don't forget their race will be October 3rd on the State Capitol grounds.

The press conference will be Wednesday, August 11, on the Junction Bridge at 10:30 a.m. Please be there to support Komen!

If you have a business with an electronic billboard or sign, think about posting Komen Race info on them during the month of October. We want to Paint the Town Pink! Please contact Donna Easley if you would like to volunteer your billboard or sign.

Teaser Alert! The Survivor Luncheon this year after the Race? Be on the lookout for disco balls! That's all I'm sayin....

We would like to get restaurants signed up for this year's Put A Fork in It. Restaurants who participate pledge a certain amount of their profits on Race Day towards Komen. So be sure to go nosh at those restaurants on Race Day! A list of the participating establishments will be published at a later date.

And, if you want to be fit and in fighting form for the Race this year, Fitness for the Cure with our own Tjuana Byrd will be back for the 2nd year in a row! New this year for the Fitness Byrds: there will be a $10 fee to sign up. However, if you can't make it to LR to participate, there will be a Virtual Fitness Training online that will be of no cost. This allows those ladies who live out of town to join in the program without all the traveling to and fro.
How do you register for the Fitness program? When you register for the Race, there will be a space on the form for you to choose.

Don't forget the Team Captains Party on July 18. We are looking forward to welcoming new and old friends into our circle.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Activism

Recently, several states had primary runoffs to see who will be on the slate for the elections in November. Now, I don't know if your candidates are in the winner's circle, but I hope you took part, either by voting or volunteering for a candidate or cause.

Don't you wish beating cancer and other diseases were this easy--just casting a vote? But, it doesn't matter what the cause is, everything starts with a single step. Someone deciding that life can be made better, so they step forward to do something.
Won't you step forward, and help us find a cure for cancer?
It can be as easy as donating your time or money. Be a Team Captain. Urge your friends & family to join your team or be Team Captains themselves.

Today I received an email from Jennifer Luray at the Komen Advocacy Alliance. This is part of the email:

"Cancer screening and treatment programs around the country are at risk of being cut if Congress doesn't move quickly on a bill that would extend enhanced federal funding for Medicaid.
Women's lives are at stake. Without the extension, states will have to make deep cuts into core public health services and vital services like mammography and treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Loss of these services could be detrimental to women without private insurance.
Take action today and urge your legislators to extend enhanced federal funding for Medicaid, so we can protect women's access to cancer screening and treatment services."

"If these cuts happen, thousands of otherwise-eligible women will be unable to get regular screenings, leading to later diagnoses, more advanced cancers, and lower chances of survival – and leading to higher expenses for federal and state budgets down the road.
We understand the difficult budget environment but in this case women's lives are literally at stake. Your legislators need to know that their constituents support this funding. Now's your chance to tell them how important this is to you!"

Please, contact your legislator and urge them to extend the Medicaid funding.

Remember, We > me.

And it all starts with a single step.....

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Lazy days of Summer? NOT!

Summer has arrived! Lest you think your RFTC committee is out tanning by the side of the pool, think again--Donna has us busy as bees! Fundraising, organizing, getting the registration site ready for operation, just all kinds of good things.

In case you haven't gotten a Team Captain letter, go to the link listed here and read all the good happenings that are coming your way!
http://www.komenarkansas.org/assets/images/team-captain-letter.pdf

Don't forget the Team Captains' Party which is July 18th at 2pm! We will be looking forward to seeing old friends and new.

Looking for something for the kids to do this month? Check out the Kids for the Cure® t-shirt design contest which is being sponsored by Burger King & KATV Channel 7.

The Arkansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is hosting a T-shirt design contest for the Kids for the Cure® program, part of this year’s Arkansas Race for the Cure in downtown Little Rock on October 16, 2010. Kids will have the opportunity to register for the Race as a Kids for the Cure® participant.

The Arkansas Affiliate invites children 12 and under to submit an original drawing for our Kids for the Cure® T-shirt. The winning artwork will be used as the signature design on the 1,500 T-shirts ordered for this program.
The rules for the competition are:

Artwork must be submitted on 8 ½” x 11” white paper or cardstock and mailed flat (folded paper cannot be formatted for T-shirt printing) to Komen Race for the Cure, 904 Autumn Road, Ste 500, Little Rock, AR 72211, by Monday, June 14.

Incorporating the theme of this year’s Race: “we > me” is suggested.

Design should incorporate the Komen pink ribbon somewhere in the art.

Only markers should be used in the artworks. Do not use crayons or colored pencils, as they do not transfer well onto T-shirts.

On the back of the artwork, please include the following in pencil:
Designer’s Name and Age
Name of school
Year in school
Home address
Parent or Guardian’s name
Contact telephone number and email address

By submitting a design, the designer and the designer’s parent or guardian consent to the entries becoming the property of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and agree to the entry being used for promotional purposes. Entries will not be returned.

The winners and their parents or guardians will be asked to attend the 2K Family Walk on October 16, 2010, as part of the Race Festivities. The entries will be judged by a panel of judges based upon creativity, neatness and the overall spirit of the Race for the Cure®. The judges’ decision is final.

Funds from the Race for the Cure® are used to help eliminate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease and are used for education, screening, treatment and research programs.

*Hard copies of this are available at the following participating Burger King locations:
Benton: Congo Road Bryant: Reynolds Road
Cabot: Bill Foster Memorial Hwy, West Main Hot Springs: Central Ave, Grant Ave
Little Rock: Rodney Parham, East Broadway, Chenal Parkway, Cantrell, Col. Glenn
Malvern: Martin Luther King Blvd
North Little Rock: East McCain, Camp Robinson Road, Maumelle Blvd
Pine Bluff: North Blake Street, Olive Street
Sheridan: Hwy 167
Sherwood: East Kiehl

New for 2010--the Team Captains Facebook group! This will take the place of the 2009 Race's Komen Captains. The group name is "AR RFTC Team Captains."
While you are browsing Facebook, don't forget to check out our other pages--"Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Arkansas" and the "Komen for the Cure Arkansas--3 Miles of Men."

Danielle Smith held her annual "Ropin' for a Cure" over Memorial Day weekend in Rosebud, AR. It was a great event and raised lots of money. Everyone had a great time. Way to go, Danielle!

The next committee meeting will be June 16 at noon.

For other information and upcoming events, you can follow our blog. If you have a Komen event, please let us know!

Have a fun summer!

Friday, May 28, 2010

Kids for the Cure

Kids for the Cure t-shirt contest is open!
Click here to download the 2010 Kids for the Cure t-shirt design contest rules. Children 12 and under. Deadline June 14. Sponsored by KATV Channel 7 and Burger King.

Also, save the date! First Kids for the Cure event to be held on October 3.

Have a great and safe weekend,
Jill

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Lovely (and busy!) Month of May 2010

Hi y'all!

This has been a very busy month for us all, and summer hasn't even started yet! I want to thank Jill for covering for me at last month's meeting--thank you so much. I did get to attend the latest meeting, which was last Wednesday, May 19th.

I love listening to Donna Easley talk--she began by telling us about the Arkansas Travelers' Mother's Day game. The Travelers all wore pink jerseys, which were auctioned off after the game. She was modeling one for us- If you want one, save your pennies & come next year for your chance at a stylin' pink jersey!


Note from Jill: Above, Donna (right) is sporting the 2009 jersey while I (left) was honored to be presented with the new 2010 style jersey. Thank you, Donna!!!! Below, Donna is chair of the 17th Race (2010) and I will chair the 18th Race (2011). Fun times!!!!!!!


In case you haven't seen it already, our 2010 Race theme this year is (drum roll, please):

we > me


Just think about this--we can accomplish so much more as a team than just 1 person. There is so much strength when two or more are in this together. So, how can you accomplish this? Simple: become a Team Captain. Encourage your whole team to fundraise. Volunteer. Join together as a team to find a cure for breast cancer. This year is even more personal for me as one of my "church mommas" has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. So I will be there with my church, my team, and you all to help find a cure for this disease. "Bring it on breast cancer...we've got the passion and the power to take you down!"

Watch this video from the creative minds at Thoma Thoma. Specific details about the race will be sent next week. Use this link to watch on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wGzQXTQVfs).

And we are happy to report that the Sponsorship committee is doing an outstanding job obtaining donations this year. Thanks to so many of you all, and to new Sponsors such as Go Running, that just opened up in the Heights. They will be a sponsor for the "27 minutes and under" runners so go visit the good folks at Go Running and support them. They have lots of great merchandise. Check them out when you go shopping for your RFTC gear.

Alana Harris is sending out the Team Captains Newsletter -- she worked really hard on it, and it is chock full of great information for all the Team Captains. So be on the lookout for your copy.

Such items include:
The Team Captain Kick-Off Party which will be July 18, 2010 at 2pm at the Patrick Henry Hays Senior Citizens Center in North Little Rock. "This will be a time to ask questions, visit with other team captains, learn more about activities leading up to the Race, and learn what a vital role you can play when it comes to educating people, ensuring quality care for all, and energizing science to find the cures."

New for 2010 concerning Teams Communication, announcements will be made through two methods of communication:
1) The Team Captain Facebook group! This will take the place of the 2009 Komen Captains. If you are looking for us on Facebook, the group name is "AR RFTC Team Captains." While you are on Facebook (and we know you are!) be sure to become a fan of these great pages: "Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Arkansas" (We now have over 10,000 fans!) and "Komen for the Cure Arkansas- 3 Miles of Men" (they have over 400 fans on Facebook!)
2) You can also follow our blog designed specifically for our Team Captains at http://arrfcteams.blogspot.com. Here you will find general team info, list of upcoming activities, and tips to help you Race for the Cure! Some of the hot topics include Fundraising Ideas, Recruiting team members, Team Captains Members, Team Captains blog, Team Captains Facebook group, Team Registration, Team SPIRIT!! and, last but not least, prizes!

We are still looking for door prizes, so please let us know if you have some that you or your group or business would like to donate.

Other news going on:
"Kids for the Cure" will be looking for a new design for this year's race. Information has been sent out to Benton schools and the LR schools. Burger King, as a sponsor for the event, will put Kids for the Cure t-shirt contest rules in their kids' meal boxes. Oct. 3rd will be the first ever event for Kids for the Cure. It will be a race of about one mile and will take place on the State Capitol grounds. More details later.

The Pasta Party people are looking for ways to have Macaroni Grill prepare the food for the party directly at Dickey Stephens Park; if you have any ideas or equipment they can borrow, please contact us. Thanks!

The Arkansas Affiliate has won another award! From the Wesley Chapel United Method Church comes the "Outstanding Womens Service Award". Awesome! What dedicated folks we have--you all get gold stars.


Finally, don't forget to mark your calendars for Sept. 12! Arkansas Skatium on Bowman will host their annual fundraiser for Komen, Skate for the Cure, by showcasing up and coming talents from the ice skating world. The cost is $10 to get in, with $8 going to Komen.

So much info, but so much fun! Thanks again to Jill for covering for me last month.

Peace and Hugs,
--
Judi
royalpinkbeatle@gmail.com

p.s. Don't forget Ropin' 4 a Cure at Smith Arena in Rose Bud this Saturday and Sunday. Click here for details.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

April 2010

Sorry for the delay in reporting to you on the latest Race Committee meeting. It has been crazy!

The meeting was held on Wednesday, April 21, and started with tears and laughter with the showing of the 2009 Race video. You can access it here. You might want to have your tissue handy.

Donna issued a challenge to have 10,000 "people who like us" (fans was much easier to type) in Facebook by the end of April. If you're a facebooker, please join us at Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Arkansas.


Melissa and Wade with Thoma & Thoma were our special guests today.


They have been working with Donna on this year's theme and have lots of exciting plans. The theme, you ask?


The grants luncheon took place on March 31. $1.2 million were given to 24 grantees. Sherrye also reported that UAMS has been given a Promise Grant from national in collaboration with several other organizations to give a "vaccine" to women considered high risk for breast cancer. Is the CURE around the corner?????

Committee Reports:

Online Fundraising is working on the Hot Pink Heroes Luncheon, t-shirts and prizes.

E-Chair - please let Ann know if you have anything to communicate. Angela is looking for stories about interesting people for the blog.

Sponsorship has certainly been busy recruiting new and returning sponsors for the Race. Channel 7 will be on stage this year. Thanks to Thoma & Thoma, we have a beautiful color sponsorship brochure this year, and we have added some special sponsorship opportunities. A new addition this year is a Kids for the Cure sponsor, Burger King. This announcement was made by Ann Brown in costume.


Another new sponsorship this year is the Block Adoptions. This sponsorship provides the company/organization/individual with a 3' x 5' banner of their logo in the intersection of their designated block. The cost is $1000. Let us know if you are interested.

Kids for the Cure is working on a new event this year--an actual race for the kids! We don't have details yet, but this will NOT be on Race Day. Kickoff of the t-shirt contest will take place at Dino Dash and we will be contacting school art teachers to encourage them to have their students participate.

Training Program - Tbyrd promises that participants will do the race at a whole new level. Walkers to joggers to runners to racers. They will work on both health and fitness. The 6-week program will begin just after Labor Day and will meet at War Memorial Stadium on Tuesdays and Thursdays with one Wednesday. There will be a $10 fee.

Three Miles of Men has also issued a Facebook challenge to have 400 "people who like us" by the end of April. Again, if you are a facebooker, please join us at Komen for the Cure Arkansas- 3 Miles of Men.

Put a Fork In It is looking for new and returning restaurants to participate. Also, KFC currently has a promo with their Buckets for a Cure. For every pink bucket, they will donate 50 cents to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. A KFC in Lexington, KY painted their store pink. You can also go to www.bucketsforacure.com and post a breast cancer story or message.

Executive Director Report:
Sherrye reported that BreastCare has less money for their program. We are working on public policy......
Kelly Kreth received the National Co-survivor Award.
The Travs will once again auction pink jerseys at their game on Mothers Day at Dickey Stephens Park.

The meeting closed with Donna presenting door prizes to Melissa and Wade--no, not the crown.


I know that Judi's reports are more exciting, but she was unable to attend. Pray that she is healthy and available for the next meeting.

Jill

Friday, May 7, 2010

Mother's Day Weekend Events

Plans for the weekend?

If not, check out the Diamonds and the Travelers games this weekend. Both are doing something to benefit Komen!

The Arkansas Diamonds Arena Football Game
Saturday, May 8th
7:00 PM
Verizon Arena, North Little Rock
A portion of ticket sales are being donated to the AR Affiliate

The Arkansas Travelers Baseball Game
Sunday, May 9th
2:00 PM
Dickey Stephens Park, North Little Rock
The players will be wearing pink jerseys that will be autographed and auctioned - with all proceeds benefiting Komen.

Happy Mother's Day,
Jill

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Very Important Dates

Yes, it is spring here in Arkansas.
How can we tell? The flowers are popping up all over, and the Komen calendar is beginning to bloom with all sorts of activities!

This weekend, April 17 -18, the 3rd annual Kick for the Cure Adult Soccer Tournament will be held at Burns Park in North Little Rock. Komen will have an education booth set up during the tournament and we are in need of volunteers to help staff it. If you are interested, the shifts are:
9 AM to Noon - Need 1 or 2 people
Noon - 5 PM - Need 1 or 2 people
Please let Emily Story know if you are interested in volunteering this weekend. You may contact her at
(501) 202-4399
(501) 975-2502 fax or http://www.komenarkansas.org/

If you can't volunteer, then take your family out for a fun weekend. All the proceeds will benefit the Arkansas Susan G. Komen For the Cure Foundation.

Don't put your calendars away just yet--for on May 29- May 30, 2010 at the Smith Arena in Rose Bud, Arkansas, Danielle Smith will be hosting Ropin' 4 a Cure! This event, in memory of her mother Betty Smith, promises lots of action as cowboys dressed in Pink will be lassoing their hearts out for a good cause.
For more information please email smith.arena@yahoo.com or go to their website at http://www.smitharena.com/
Again, all proceeds will go toward the Arkansas Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Then as we go through summer, we gear up for our highly anticipated Team Captains' Party!
The Party will be at the Patrick Henry Hays Center in North Little Rock at 2 pm. We are looking forward to seeing your smiling faces there, as well as welcoming all the new Team Captains.

Remember to keep this date circled in pink on your calendar:
October 16, 2010--the 17th annual Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure will be happening in downtown Little Rock!

We will have more activities coming your way, so leave plenty of room on your datebook.

Now, go out and enjoy those flowers!

peace & hugs,
Judi
royalpinkbeatle@gmail.com

Monday, April 5, 2010

Beginnings....

Spring is here; change is in the air; and are you ready to get running? I hope so, because Donna Easley, our 2010 Chair, held the first Committee meeting on March 17th to begin planning the 2010 Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure. Everyone met at the Komen affiliate office, and Papa John's once again provided us with their delicious pizza.
Donna reminded everyone, first and foremost, to take care of you. Remember, that is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Then we headed off into Race Committee introductions, and afterwards, the reporting began fast & furious.
Ellen Kreth, 2009 Race Chair, announced that we raised almost $2 million, and over 45,000 people registered for the 2009 Race. She then reminded everyone that 75% of all money raised stays here in Arkansas, and the other 25% goes to National, but it all goes toward research.

By the time we'd had our first meeting, $112,000 had been raised already--which is a good start toward our goal this year of $2 million.
We'd also like to mention that Ellen's husband, Kelly, has won a Komen National Co-Survivor award. This is one of 6 National Awards given out by Komen each year. Yeah Kelly! Ellen wrote a very touching letter about Kelly's support and love for her when she was diagnosed and through her treatment.

The Sponsorship committee reported that they have a new sponsorship packet, which Thoma Thoma produced this year. Many of our great sponsors have returned this year such as Papa John's and Kimberly-Clark. Russell LeMay will be sponsoring the Port a Potties.
A change for this year: a new program called Block Adoption. We will have 33 blocks offered for $1000 each. These blocks will be printed with the sponsors' business logos along the Race route. So if you know of a business who would like to sponsor a block, please let us know. This is a quick and easy way to get your business' logo out to at least 45,000 racers.
Mark your calendars: The Team Captains Party will be July 18th at the Patrick Henry Hays Center in North Little Rock. Last year's party was set up as a health fair/pep rally, and it was such a success that the same format will be used again. We do need 10 door prizes for the Team Captains Party. (Side note: I was a Team Captain last year, and I won the pearl necklace earring set that was donated by JC Penney. You wouldn't believe all the compliments I get whenever I wear them.) If you have an item you would like to donate, please contact us.
The committee for "Because I Care" is thinking of changing the name, as some people are confused by what it means. So that committee will be busy thinking of new names while they are also doing more work to simplify online fundraising.
They would also like to work with the Teams Committee to start a mentoring program for Team Captains to increase fundraising participation. If anyone has any ideas about this--please let us know. Being a Team Captain can be a bit confusing at times, and so having someone to contact to ask about registrations, shirts, etc. would be a great help. Stay tuned for more info.
The Race Brochure will be circulated at the next meeting for all to make necessary changes.
Ellen started a great new Training program last year as an opportunity for Race participants to get in shape for the race. They will offer it again this year, and Tjuana Byrd (TByrd) has agreed to chair the program again. (Go TByrd!) (Another side note: I ran into a sorority sister I hadn't seen in quite some time because her mother & I both participated in the fitness program last fall.)
The 2010 Pasta Party is planned for Dickey-Stephens Park on October 15th; they are working to improve the sound system so that everyone will be able to hear.
The Registration committee has lots of new faces that will be helping out at the Race Space, which will again be at the Pleasant Ridge Shopping Centre. Think about having your team volunteer this year at the Race Space--you will meet a lot of the friendly Komen folks, plus you get a chance to do some early Christmas shopping, all while helping a great cause.
The E-Chair folks are working on our Facebook pages as well as tweeting on Twitter. Check it out and let us know what you think.
Whew! So much news and that was just our first meeting! Remember, the reason why we are an award winning affiliate is because of YOU, our hardworking volunteers, friends, families, and participants. YOU are the reason we are the FOURTH largest Race in the world, and because of you, we are well on our way to winning the race against breast cancer.
Until next time,

Peace and hugs
Judi King
royalpinkbeatle@gmail.com

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Sponsorships

The Sponsorship Committee is in full swing asking sponsors to renew their support for 2010 and recruiting other companies and organizations to also invest in the lives of Arkansans.

If your company or organization is interested in becoming a sponsor for the 2010 Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure®, please visit our website for more information and to download the 2010 Sponsor Book.

Thanks,
Jill

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Events

I don't know whether you are aware of it, but there are lots of opportunities to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure even though it is not Race time. Here's a little information about a few things going on:

Tuesday, February 9
8:00 p.m. at Juanita's
The Pink Ribbon Comedy Tour
"Laughter is the BREAST Medicine"

Tickets $10
This group of guys is traveling across the country raising money for Komen in honor of Kevin's mother who was diagnosed recently with breast cancer. They will be making a stop at Juanita's for one show.



Wednesday, February 10
UALR WBCA Pink Zone
Jack Stephens Center at UALR
7:00 p.m.

Pink t-shirts will be given to the first 500 fans. Breast cancer survivors will be honored at half-time. Click here for more information.


Friday, February 19
Fashion show hosted by Korto Momolu
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Dillard's Park Plaza


Central Arkansas resident Korto Momolu will unveil her new line of jewelry and accessories titled, Korto Momolu for Dillard's. Momolu, who gained international acclaim as the runner up on the hit TV series Project Runway, has partnered with Dillard's to produce a collection of bags and jewelry that will be sold in select Dillard's stores nationwide.

The launch will be hosted by Momolu and include a free runway fashion show. Korto will show her Fashion Week presentation in partnership with the Arkansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and feature the auction of a custom designed, limited edition piece of jewelry with all proceeds going to the Affiliate.


Saturday-Sunday, April 17-18
Kick for the Cure Arkansas
Burns Park


Kick for the Cure Arkansas is a spring soccer tournament weekend hosted at Burns Park in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The primary purpose of the weekend is to raise awareness and money for the Arkansas Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Click here for more information.


Saturday-Sunday, May 29-30
Ropin' 4 a Cure
Smith Arena, Rose Bud, Arkansas


Danielle is making plans for the 2010 Ropin' 4 a Cure to be held Memorial Day Weekend. It currently has the 2009 information, but click here for more information.


Coffee for a Cure
Please don't forget about our continuous fundraiser, Coffee for a Cure.
The Arkansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure has teamed with Premium Refreshment to bag 100% Free Trade Ugandan coffee. For every bag sold, the Arkansas Affiliate will receive a $1.50 donation to be used for treatment, education, support services and awareness programs. Look for Coffee for the Cure coffee in central Arkansas Kroger stores and other retail stores, or order at www.premiumrefreshment.com.


Well, those should keep you busy for now.

Hugs,
Jill

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

2010 Off to a Great Start

Yes, it's time for us to start (or continue) planning for the 17th Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure. My mind is already spinning.

You should already have the date for the Race, but just in case--October 16, 2010. I do expect to see you there!

Your Race Chair this year is Donna Easley. I've worked with Donna as long as I have been involved with the Race and know that you are going to love her if you don't already. She's a fantastic lady! She started out volunteering with Komen as one of you--team captain for AT&T. Well, I guess it was Southwestern Bell back then. Anyway, look for a fun year!

I am also pleased to announce that I will be working closer than ever with Donna this year as her Co-Chair. I have SO very much to learn before I chair the 2011 Race. WHAT?!!!!!!!

No, I am not deserting you! There are several changes taking place on our side for Teams, but I don't think you're going to be affected by many of those changes. The one that will affect you is that Alana Harris has agreed to chair the Teams Committee and to be your main contact. Many of you have had contact with Alana over the past few years as she has helped answer emails, etc. I will be here to help her this year so that she can handle it all in 2011. (BTW, Alana says her name rhymes with banana; I remember it by taking the t's out of Atlanta.)

Alana with her precious twin daughters.
She also has an older son, so she is one busy lady.

On that note, we are also looking for someone to assist and learn along with Alana. We need someone that can answer questions over the phone or email without getting in trouble with their job and that has at least a working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Access. Give me a yell if you have an interest.

I also wanted to let you know that we have set the date for the Team Captain Party--Sunday, July 18. Please put it on your calendar now and make plans to attend.

Would love to hear from you.

Hugs,
Jill