SAB PSA

The Save Abandoned Babies Foundation was fortunate to have the Flashpoint Academy tape the interviews of two wonderful men so others could later hear their stories. I was asked to do the interviews. Dave Orlowski is a 29 year old who was abandoned by his birth mother at the Ford City Mall the day he was born. He was found my a janitor who discovered him along with a note from his mom. A couple of weeks later he was adopted into a family who raised him to be a very successful person who also works with the foundation. Brandon Shephard found a newborn baby abandoned outside his apartment this summer. The baby boy was discarded in three plastic bags which had each been tied off in knots. The baby somehow survived so Brandon could find him in the bushes, but he will have life long challenges because of head trauma, ect. Because the boy was not brought to a Safe Haven, police legally had to search for the birth mom , who was found. A judge only gave the 15 year old 5 years probation. Perhaps had she brought the baby to a Safe Haven, he would not face the challenges he will now.1) Dave Orlowski and I get ready for the interview2) Brandon, Kelly Seigel (SAB member), me and Dave.3)One of the many sets at Flashpoint. They are outstanding!

The best gift of all is to give.

This weekend we celebrated an early holiday with my brother and his family who came up from Indy. We spent Sunday in Lake Forest having some fun with Santa who made a quick stop to visit. Wasn't that nice, being so busy right now? Toys were donated to children in need while our kids had pictures taken and faces painted, all while watching juggling elves. Quite the sight! We had to be careful as my neice (a very smart 4 yrs old) is already wondering how it's possible Santa can be everywhere, from Lake Forest to McDonalds to the malls ect. We had a great time, although hectic. And it's a great way to teach children about the gift of giving to other children who may not be as fortunate.

I Loved It!

The North Suburban Law Enforcement Academy asked me to help with the media training for the various surburban officers who handle the media. I get to put them in front of cameras and interview them about mock scenarios such as plant explosions or hostage situations and then give feedback. Aftewward I am part of a panel Q&A about the media. I cannot tell you how much respect and admire these men and women who are police officers and fire fighters. And if they only knew how much my son adores them as well. Maybe one day he will be part of their training.

Run, Run Santa...

In my quest to get back into running shape while doing some good, I signed myself up for a few runs this fall/winter. The Turkey Trot was a last minute no-go thanks to catching the funk everyone else was getting at the time. But I made it to the Santa Sleigh 5k in Arlington Heights this weekend. What a riot! We all wore Santa suits (beards included) as we ran through the streets and neighborhoods. Can you imagine the sight of seven hundred Santa's, beards blowing in the wind? Not a good idea to wear lip gloss. People waited outside to cheer us on even though it was in the 20's and snowing. That's when the warmth of those beards came into play. I must admit, the sugar free Red Bull energy drink was not a smart idea to have before the race. Blah! But I ran it right around 30 minutes (which is good for me right now)and managed to remain upright while running on the sleet and snow. It was its first year and an enormous success for the Rotary Club. Money raised went to combat polio. Mark it on your calendars for next year. It is worth every step along the way. 1)Me, post race with a son who isn't diggin' "Wanna Be Santa," so much.2)Ali, who plans to run it with me next year.3)Here is a shot of just some of us!