It's that time of year gain... the First Book- Mahoning Valley golf outing is this weekend : Saturday, August 7 at 2:00 pm at Pine Lakes Golf course in Hubbard, Ohio.
We are grateful for the continued support of Farmers National Bank, Home Depot in Boardman (come register to win a grill!), the Draught House, and all the local businesses that became hole sponsors, sent prize donations, and continue to support literacy in the Mahoning Valley.
Did you forget register to golf with us? Did you want to but think it is too late? Did you forget you wanted to spend a Saturday afternoon with us? Don't worry- its never too late. Just email amyneral@yahoo.com and I will put you on my "Paying that day, but committed to attending" list. Pine Lakes has even agreed to take credit card payment for golf to help us out!
We hope to see everyone in attendance. We have a wonderful time explaining First Book- Mahoning Valley and sharing photos of the children who have received books thanks to your support. Don't miss it!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
With Deepest Sympathy: In Memory of Dr. Carroll Brunner
(Oh, how I hope through the magic of technology this post finds its way to your family)
As many of you know, aside from being the Chairperson of First Book- Mahoning Valley, I am also the Community Relations Manager at Barnes & Noble in Youngstown. My job is to work with schools, educators, businesses, etc to help them find the right books for the right price. Within my first week of work a few years ago I met the most remarkable woman anyone could ever hope to meet. Now, I do not say this lightly, nor do I exaggerate her impact on others. I happen to know a great deal of wonderful women and am very proud to know each and every one. However, Dr. Brunner holds a very special place in my heart.
Dr. Carroll Brunner is truly remarkable. Her passion is reading. She teaches high school students with picture books because she knows that a story that can reach you emotionally will have far greater impact on you than just a conglomeration of facts. She believes in her students and shares with them books about controversial subjects because she knows that their lives are controversial. 13 Reasons Why, a phenomenal book dealing with teen suicide, went right into her class while other teachers/schools felt it was inappropriate. Have a student who cuts? She would recommend Wintergirls. Have a 9th grade student who was raped at their first party? She would tell you about Speak. There is no topic she couldn't match to a book- and not just any book, but a book of substance. A well written book that deals with the topic realistically, in a manner teens can relate to.
She LOVED reading. She loved her students. She talked about the library her husband built her and the thousands of books she personally owned... and even more, the books she gave away when a student really connected with one.
Anyone who knew her could attest to her passion for reading and teaching. Fortunately, I was blessed with the opportunity to learn about her true passion: her family. Dr. Brunner was a woman who loved life and knew how to live it. She also knew how to love. Passionately. Unconditionally. And, out loud. As vocal as she was about a new find in the teen section of Barnes & Noble, she was even more enthusiastic about her children and her grandchildren. How her face would light up when she spoke of her family! She would tell stories of her grandchildren and how proud she was of their accomplishments. When she would share one of their latest achievements, not only would she tell me how proud she was of them, but also of their parents. She didn't just love and accept them all, she respected each one of her family members, too.
Her funeral is tomorrow morning. She passed last week and I didn't know until this afternoon. The florist couldn't guarantee that the flowers we wanted to send from Barnes & Noble would arrive for calling hours tonight or even for the service tomorrow- so I went and picked them up at the florist and delivered them myself. I am so sorry I couldn't come in and see her family. I know one of her sons very well because he brought her to the store when she was too weak to come alone. I want so much for him to know how saddened I am by his loss. I know they know how much she loved them, but I want them to know that there are people like me all across the world who also know how much she loved them. There are people like me who learned so much from her and will continue to think of her every day.
Dr. Brunner once told me that the most important book any person could read is The Three Questions, a short story by Tolstoy recast by Jon Muth. It is a children's book, but it is also a life lesson... "There is only one important time, and that time is now. The most important one is always the one you are with. And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side." This story, as Dr. Brunner explained to me, teaches you that there are three questions to ask yourself when making decisions about your life. "When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?" These three questions can be applied to anything in your life, and the answers above should always lead you on the right path.
I promise to continue to share this book and the lessons from it with every person I meet in every opportunity I can. Whether it be for work, First Book- Mahoning Valley, or a personal interaction, I will always carry this lesson in my heart- right next to the place Dr. Brunner's memory holds.
Brunner family, I cannot attend the services tomorrow. I am sure you are not aware, but I lost my son in November and I am not yet ready to face another funeral. That is why I did not come in to calling hours tonight when I brought the flowers and why it was critical that you received them in time. I do not want any of you to think because I am not there that I am not deeply saddened by your loss... my loss.. everyone's loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts, now and always. If I can be of service in any way, please ask the store to contact me. I truly hope this finds its way to you. I dread that tomorrow will pass and you will be left wondering why no one from Barnes & Noble is in attendance. The entire store is grieving with you. I hope this post finds you so that you will understand my absence. Much love. (Amy Neral)
As many of you know, aside from being the Chairperson of First Book- Mahoning Valley, I am also the Community Relations Manager at Barnes & Noble in Youngstown. My job is to work with schools, educators, businesses, etc to help them find the right books for the right price. Within my first week of work a few years ago I met the most remarkable woman anyone could ever hope to meet. Now, I do not say this lightly, nor do I exaggerate her impact on others. I happen to know a great deal of wonderful women and am very proud to know each and every one. However, Dr. Brunner holds a very special place in my heart.
Dr. Carroll Brunner is truly remarkable. Her passion is reading. She teaches high school students with picture books because she knows that a story that can reach you emotionally will have far greater impact on you than just a conglomeration of facts. She believes in her students and shares with them books about controversial subjects because she knows that their lives are controversial. 13 Reasons Why, a phenomenal book dealing with teen suicide, went right into her class while other teachers/schools felt it was inappropriate. Have a student who cuts? She would recommend Wintergirls. Have a 9th grade student who was raped at their first party? She would tell you about Speak. There is no topic she couldn't match to a book- and not just any book, but a book of substance. A well written book that deals with the topic realistically, in a manner teens can relate to.
She LOVED reading. She loved her students. She talked about the library her husband built her and the thousands of books she personally owned... and even more, the books she gave away when a student really connected with one.
Anyone who knew her could attest to her passion for reading and teaching. Fortunately, I was blessed with the opportunity to learn about her true passion: her family. Dr. Brunner was a woman who loved life and knew how to live it. She also knew how to love. Passionately. Unconditionally. And, out loud. As vocal as she was about a new find in the teen section of Barnes & Noble, she was even more enthusiastic about her children and her grandchildren. How her face would light up when she spoke of her family! She would tell stories of her grandchildren and how proud she was of their accomplishments. When she would share one of their latest achievements, not only would she tell me how proud she was of them, but also of their parents. She didn't just love and accept them all, she respected each one of her family members, too.
Her funeral is tomorrow morning. She passed last week and I didn't know until this afternoon. The florist couldn't guarantee that the flowers we wanted to send from Barnes & Noble would arrive for calling hours tonight or even for the service tomorrow- so I went and picked them up at the florist and delivered them myself. I am so sorry I couldn't come in and see her family. I know one of her sons very well because he brought her to the store when she was too weak to come alone. I want so much for him to know how saddened I am by his loss. I know they know how much she loved them, but I want them to know that there are people like me all across the world who also know how much she loved them. There are people like me who learned so much from her and will continue to think of her every day.
Dr. Brunner once told me that the most important book any person could read is The Three Questions, a short story by Tolstoy recast by Jon Muth. It is a children's book, but it is also a life lesson... "There is only one important time, and that time is now. The most important one is always the one you are with. And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side." This story, as Dr. Brunner explained to me, teaches you that there are three questions to ask yourself when making decisions about your life. "When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?" These three questions can be applied to anything in your life, and the answers above should always lead you on the right path.
I promise to continue to share this book and the lessons from it with every person I meet in every opportunity I can. Whether it be for work, First Book- Mahoning Valley, or a personal interaction, I will always carry this lesson in my heart- right next to the place Dr. Brunner's memory holds.
Brunner family, I cannot attend the services tomorrow. I am sure you are not aware, but I lost my son in November and I am not yet ready to face another funeral. That is why I did not come in to calling hours tonight when I brought the flowers and why it was critical that you received them in time. I do not want any of you to think because I am not there that I am not deeply saddened by your loss... my loss.. everyone's loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts, now and always. If I can be of service in any way, please ask the store to contact me. I truly hope this finds its way to you. I dread that tomorrow will pass and you will be left wondering why no one from Barnes & Noble is in attendance. The entire store is grieving with you. I hope this post finds you so that you will understand my absence. Much love. (Amy Neral)
Sunday, August 9, 2009
A Day of Thanks
Ok- so traditionally that would be in November around the table with the family thinking about all the things we are grateful for, but I am thankful every day - so I thought I'd share!
Special thanks to:
The First Book- Mahoning Valley board members for great organizing and wonderful enthusiasm. No matter how crazy things get, you guys make it happen and continue to believe that every dollar counts (big or small) because it buys a book for a child.
Felicity, Amy, Greta, Tara, Stephen, Linda- thanks for EVERYTHING!
Our golfers- We are still hoping that this will grow to be a golf outing that gives you the opportunity for networking and meeting great new people. in the meantime, thank you for your continued support and dedication. We hope you enjoyed the game, the prizes and the incredible chicken!
Community/Business supporters: All of you made this golf outing a success! From the incredible Home Depot grill we all fought over to the beautiful jewelry from Beadazzled- we couldn't do it without you! Watch for a complete listing of donors on our official web page coming soon! Thank you to Farmers National Bank for the silver sponsorship that helps make it all possible.
A Way With Words Foundation- Thank you for the extra prizes you donated for our golfers! They loved the items and I loved being able to take a moment to talk about the amazing work you do. First Book- Mahoning Valley firmly believes in collaboration! Look what we can all do together!
My friends and family- You know I can't do it without you. Dan and Tim- thanks for throwing a team together to help me out even though it took you away from your family reunion for a little while. Lois- thanks for thinking there is no way I could be turning 37 today- you are beautiful! Tyler (my son) donated three hole sponsor signs and it was a joy to watch him make them. I am very proud of how good he is at his job and I appreciate his support. My girls were away with family for the outing but did a lot to help prepare. Thanks!
SO thank you to everyone! Even the people I didn't mention specifically. I would write more, but birthday cake awaits!
Thanks!
Special thanks to:
The First Book- Mahoning Valley board members for great organizing and wonderful enthusiasm. No matter how crazy things get, you guys make it happen and continue to believe that every dollar counts (big or small) because it buys a book for a child.
Felicity, Amy, Greta, Tara, Stephen, Linda- thanks for EVERYTHING!
Our golfers- We are still hoping that this will grow to be a golf outing that gives you the opportunity for networking and meeting great new people. in the meantime, thank you for your continued support and dedication. We hope you enjoyed the game, the prizes and the incredible chicken!
Community/Business supporters: All of you made this golf outing a success! From the incredible Home Depot grill we all fought over to the beautiful jewelry from Beadazzled- we couldn't do it without you! Watch for a complete listing of donors on our official web page coming soon! Thank you to Farmers National Bank for the silver sponsorship that helps make it all possible.
A Way With Words Foundation- Thank you for the extra prizes you donated for our golfers! They loved the items and I loved being able to take a moment to talk about the amazing work you do. First Book- Mahoning Valley firmly believes in collaboration! Look what we can all do together!
My friends and family- You know I can't do it without you. Dan and Tim- thanks for throwing a team together to help me out even though it took you away from your family reunion for a little while. Lois- thanks for thinking there is no way I could be turning 37 today- you are beautiful! Tyler (my son) donated three hole sponsor signs and it was a joy to watch him make them. I am very proud of how good he is at his job and I appreciate his support. My girls were away with family for the outing but did a lot to help prepare. Thanks!
SO thank you to everyone! Even the people I didn't mention specifically. I would write more, but birthday cake awaits!
Thanks!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
First Book needs your help!
Please check out our PSA from the most wonderful Madonna Chism Pinkard at WFMJ (thank you!)
We need golfers and hole sponsors. If you know someone who understands how important it is that every child read and own his/her own first new book, please direct them to our outing. There is room for supporters of any type- volunteers, hole sponsors, sponsorships, etc... but mostly golfers.
You can sponsor a hole for $100 or be a Friend of First Book for $30. Whatever fits your budget. Every $2.50 buys a book for a child- can't send $30, send $5! We are grateful for every book we can give!
Remember that we are a volunteer run organization- no overhead, salaries, etc. Everything raised during our outing goes directly to giving children in the Mahoning Valley their first new book.
REGISTER TODAY!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Are you ready to ROCcK?
First Book- Mahoning Valley is very pleased to be working in conjunction with Brenda Rider, founder of the A Way With Words Foundation, the ROCcK Choir (Raising our Commitment to Cancer Kids) and with Chris Yambar (of the Simpsons Comics fame, and more!) at the AWWWMAZING PLACE at Southern Park Mall (near the Buffalo Wild Wings entrance).
This new store serves as an outreach center to help both cancer patients and their friends and families. Customers are encouraged to come in and share their experiences, ask questions about helping friends through cancer, or just learn more about the organization. Items for sale in the store benefit the A Way With Words Foundation and The ROCcK Choir.
First Book- Mahoning Valley is honored to have some of our Beads for Books items for sale at the store. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit both our organization and theirs- so please stop in and support us... or just support them and tell others about us!
Keep an eye out for monthly Beads for Books events beginning in August, when you can shop our full line of Fireball beads.
Also watch for announcements of additional events at the store. You don't want to miss an opportunity to watch Chris Yambar paint or run into the elusive (he often just tries to blend in) Guy Shively, whose art is also featured.
On a side note, there are very lovely key chains and necklaces designed by inSAMity- a sweet ten year old (Sammi) who is very excited to be a part of this store and the opportunity to raise funds for both A Way With Words and First Book with her own designs.
Check it out and when you do, pick up some info about our August 8 golf outing!
This new store serves as an outreach center to help both cancer patients and their friends and families. Customers are encouraged to come in and share their experiences, ask questions about helping friends through cancer, or just learn more about the organization. Items for sale in the store benefit the A Way With Words Foundation and The ROCcK Choir.
First Book- Mahoning Valley is honored to have some of our Beads for Books items for sale at the store. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit both our organization and theirs- so please stop in and support us... or just support them and tell others about us!
Keep an eye out for monthly Beads for Books events beginning in August, when you can shop our full line of Fireball beads.
Also watch for announcements of additional events at the store. You don't want to miss an opportunity to watch Chris Yambar paint or run into the elusive (he often just tries to blend in) Guy Shively, whose art is also featured.
On a side note, there are very lovely key chains and necklaces designed by inSAMity- a sweet ten year old (Sammi) who is very excited to be a part of this store and the opportunity to raise funds for both A Way With Words and First Book with her own designs.
Check it out and when you do, pick up some info about our August 8 golf outing!
Friday, May 1, 2009
May 15 at Barnes & Noble
Ok- so I told you about the bookfair and the gallery show with the Ohio Jewelry and Metal Arts Guild in the last post. All of our wonderful supporters can shop at Barnes & Noble on May 15, check out the amazing jewelry and metal work of area artists, and when you make a purchase and say you are shopping with First Book- Mahoning Valley, Barnes & Noble will make a donation to help us give even more new books to children in our community.
But wait- There's more!
David Lee Morgan, Jr., a Youngstown native and YSU alumni who writes for the Akron Beacon Journal, is having a book signing that very same day. The title? Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik: The Pride of Youngstown. David will be accompanied by Greg Gulas- co-author and also from YSU. The signing begins at 2:00 pm. THIS BOOK IS ONLY AVAILABLE MAY 15 from open to close- you can't get it the day before, the day after, and it may be some time before you can order it at B&N again (working it out).
At 4:00 pm David will be joined by his special guest KELLY PAVLIK - who will also sign books.
So, if you come in for David Morgan Jr's new book and say you are shopping with First Book- you win and so do the children in the Mahoning Valley!!!
Need more info about the signing? email amyneral@yahoo.com or visit Barnes & Noble in Youngstown. RESERVE YOUR BOOK TODAY!!!
But wait- There's more!
David Lee Morgan, Jr., a Youngstown native and YSU alumni who writes for the Akron Beacon Journal, is having a book signing that very same day. The title? Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik: The Pride of Youngstown. David will be accompanied by Greg Gulas- co-author and also from YSU. The signing begins at 2:00 pm. THIS BOOK IS ONLY AVAILABLE MAY 15 from open to close- you can't get it the day before, the day after, and it may be some time before you can order it at B&N again (working it out).
At 4:00 pm David will be joined by his special guest KELLY PAVLIK - who will also sign books.
So, if you come in for David Morgan Jr's new book and say you are shopping with First Book- you win and so do the children in the Mahoning Valley!!!
Need more info about the signing? email amyneral@yahoo.com or visit Barnes & Noble in Youngstown. RESERVE YOUR BOOK TODAY!!!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
FORE!
Wow! Been a while since I updated, but I am going to try to blog regularly so everyone can keep up with what we are doing. We have now distributed well over 20,000 books... with thousands more to go.
We are still distributing to the Youngstown Elementary schools through Youngstown Stars- a great organization run by April Brown through the Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic that does after school programming.
Coming up we are hosting a bookfair at Barnes & Noble in the Shops at Boardman Park on May 15 with the Ohio Jewelery and Metal Arts guild. They will have an Artists' Reception at 7 pm and we will host a storytime in the kids department for the little ones. If you have shopping to do, come in that day and tell them you are shopping for First Book- Barnes & Noble will make a donation to us!! Thanks!
We are also gearing up for our 2nd annual golf outing on August 8 at 8 am. We need hole sponsors, prize donations, and most of all, GOLFERS! Join us and help get new books to kids! The money all goes to books- we have no overhead, we're all volunteers, and we have no costs! What more can you ask for? The outing will be at Bedford Trails in Coitsville, Ohio. Thank you, Andrew for being so great to work with!
There will be many more opportunities to see what wonderful work we are doing because of the great people who support us! Keep checking in for updates to find out when and where!
We are still distributing to the Youngstown Elementary schools through Youngstown Stars- a great organization run by April Brown through the Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic that does after school programming.
Coming up we are hosting a bookfair at Barnes & Noble in the Shops at Boardman Park on May 15 with the Ohio Jewelery and Metal Arts guild. They will have an Artists' Reception at 7 pm and we will host a storytime in the kids department for the little ones. If you have shopping to do, come in that day and tell them you are shopping for First Book- Barnes & Noble will make a donation to us!! Thanks!
We are also gearing up for our 2nd annual golf outing on August 8 at 8 am. We need hole sponsors, prize donations, and most of all, GOLFERS! Join us and help get new books to kids! The money all goes to books- we have no overhead, we're all volunteers, and we have no costs! What more can you ask for? The outing will be at Bedford Trails in Coitsville, Ohio. Thank you, Andrew for being so great to work with!
There will be many more opportunities to see what wonderful work we are doing because of the great people who support us! Keep checking in for updates to find out when and where!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
