Subject: another opportunity to help Date: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 14:54:28 -0400 (EDT) From: Sheena Beaverson Hello everyone, To add to the idea of memorial balloon releases to be held on September 21, there might be another way for balloon professionals to be pro-active in the world on Friday. I heard a report on a Chicago news radio station that is also covered at cnn.com that the major TV networks are discussing the idea of holding an (television) industry-wide telethon on Friday night. As this news story is just starting to get out, details are sketchy. If this telethon would be something with both a national (international?) and local componenet like the annual MS telethon, there would be lots of opportunites for balloon decorators and balloon entertainers to participate. From stage decor, to entertainment, and maybe even tying in coverage of our planned balloon releases... Who out there has ties to the television industry? (or is it sufficient to just contact local affiliates?) Sheena Beaverson BalloonHQ.com In a personal aside, I would like to say thank you to our global balloon family members for their wonderful words of concern and support over the past week. The support from other countries in the world has been very moving, at the national level. Seeing firsthand that same support echoed by our very own friends was, and continues to be, so very comforting. I have always been proud of the accomplishments of Balloon HQ, made possible by the real-life community that regularly participates on-line and in person. I am honored to have the opportunity to meet so many interesting and caring people from all over the US and the world. One other suggestion that I'd like to make to those of you who are wanting to help out in some way (aren't we all!). Contact your own Red Cross agency to make donations or volunteer. Our media has been quick to report that 'sister agencies' from many countries around the world have offered to augment the support being provided by the American Red Cross. - skb