Today, April 22, 2009, marks the 80th anniversary of Hope Mission in Edmonton, and tonight we celebrated this milestone with a banquet dinner that was put on by Hope Mission's food staff. In 1929, Hope Mission started as a soup kitchen by a Reverend and his wife. Now it has grown to 7 buildings, numerous life-changing programs, emergency services, summer camps, youth programs and so much more.
The Premiere of Alberta Ed Stelmach and his wife Marie attended this evening's event. The Premiere spoke passionately about his 10-year plan to end homelessness in Alberta. Combining a 10-year plan with the community services provided by nonprofit organizations like Hope Mission adds strength and hope for a solution, and currently this plan is the only 10-year plan Canada has in motion.
Although there have been some rumblings about Alberta's deficit and some uncertainty about the 10-year plan being initiated, the Premiere's passionate speech and that of the Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs Yvonne Fritz suggests that this plan is going through. There are plans for affordable housing for the homeless, plus programs to help them succeed in staying off the streets. The latter is a key element.
The stories shared by recovery graduates at the banquet were especially touching, reminding everyone of why Hope Mission exists. Tanya shared her story of abuse and addictions, and how the people at Hope Mission helped her turn her life around. We heard stories from some of the men who were being honored for hitting milestones in the recovery program. Every one of them shared how alone they felt, how lost they were--until they walked through Hope Mission's doors and into the welcoming atmosphere that is provided by everyone there.
My brother Jason was in my thoughts and heart tonight. He used some of Hope Mission's services, and after Jasons's murder in 2006 I felt drawn to become involved with the Mission. Tonight as I watched a group of 20+ men cross the stage to receive their recovery certificate, I wished that Jason had made it this far, but he was never given the chance. Someone took it from him. It's too late for Jason, but it's not too late for every homeless person living on our streets today.
About 800 people attended the banquet. 800 people from all walks of life. 800 people who were raised in very different families. 800 people who were educated in different cities and towns. 800 people who are connected to the Mission in many different ways. 800 people who came together to celebrate that Hope is alive in Edmonton and that we care.
Even though times are tough, even though jobs are unstable, there is Hope. I invite you to find a way to celebrate Earth Day by making it "Hope Month". Celebrate Hope in humanity by helping those in your communities who are less fortunate than you--because there is ALWAYS someone less fortunate. For the rest of April, please consider donating clothing, household items, personal care items, food, funds or your time as a volunteer to a mission like Hope Mission.
One final note: If you can find a copy of Whale Song in any bookstore or online (it's out of print, but some stores or online retailers may still have it), please know that when you buy this novel, a percentage of my royalties goes to Hope Mission. I will be doubling that amount for the remaining royalties from this edition. I will be pledging a new amount when I have secured the movie deal and 3rd print edition, which are in the works for Whale Song.
Check out Hope Mission's website and the Hope Mission blog.
To donate to Hope Mission, please go HERE.
~Cheryl Kaye Tardif, a proud Edmonton author
Showing posts with label edmonton events. Show all posts
Showing posts with label edmonton events. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Edmonton Event: Meet Cheryl at Starbucks on 50th St. this Sunday
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21st - SPECIAL STARBUCKS EVENT:
Meet bestselling author Cheryl Kaye Tardif at the new SE Edmonton Starbucks location
1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
4357-50th Street, Edmonton, AB
780-465-4173
Have your favorite coffee drink or my favorite Chai tea with 2 shots of Cinnamon Dolce and try some yummy samples.
Enter to win a fabulous gift bag filled with gifts and surprises.
No purchase required to enter. Just show up & bring your friends!!!
Come chat with me! I'm a bestselling Edmonton author who has been in the news a lot lately (I'm writing a novel on my iPhone 3G!). Pick up some personalized, autographed novels for yourself and for family and friends. All of my books make wonderful Christmas gifts.
Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention will be ON SALE!
A percentage of all book sales will be donated to:
- Hope Mission
- Mustard Seed Church
- Bissell Centre
- and one Edmonton school
Come out and show your support! Bring your family and friends! The more the merrier!
ATTN. MEDIA:
I'm always open to interviews, so please drop by this event and set something up. OR email me if you'd like to do an interview before or after this event.
P.S. I really hope you all come out and have some fun celebrating this new Starbucks location and the Christmas season!
P.P.S. Please let your friends in the Edmonton area know about this event. I really want to pack Starbucks and keep them hopping! :)
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention
http://www.cherylktardif.com/
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com/
ATTN. MEDIA:
I'm always open to interviews, so please drop by this event and set something up. OR email me if you'd like to do an interview before or after this event.
P.S. I really hope you all come out and have some fun celebrating this new Starbucks location and the Christmas season!
P.P.S. Please let your friends in the Edmonton area know about this event. I really want to pack Starbucks and keep them hopping! :)
Cheryl Kaye Tardif
author of Whale Song, The River and Divine Intervention
http://www.cherylktardif.com/
http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com/
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Update on the 3rd Annual Local Authors Extravaganza
Yesterday was the 3rd Annual Local Authors Extravaganza and I had a blast. This year it was held at South Point Chapters in Edmonton, Alberta.
There were some new faces in the crowd, like Patricia Marie Budd, a historical fiction author, and a few others--I should have written their names down. (Sorry...)
And it was great to see so many familiar faces, like Marty Chan, Dan MacDonald, Jackson Carter, and Kelly Komm.
Marty Chan is a well-known Alberta children's author and his play 'The Forbidden Phoenix' will be at the Citadel Theatre from October 25th to November 9th. It's a "fusion of Peking Opera, martial arts, acrobatics and 'western' musical theatre"--and perfect for the entire family.
Dan MacDonald has a series of small and handy (fits in a purse/pocket) booklets that empower people who want to achieve success in any business venture. Dan also conducts seminars, e-training and more through his company BIS--Business Improvement Solutions.
Jackson Carter is a good friend of mine, and he writes conspiracy thrillers with a Canadian flavor. Check out his novels Bull and Sins in the Name of the Father. He came from the airport to the event--a busy guy!
Kelly Komm is another very good friend of mine. Her debut novel Sacrifice officially released in March. I've read this YA fantasy novel and loved it. She's busy working on the sequel. Although Sacrifice is marketed mainly as Young Adult, it is perfectly suitable for adults, especially if you're looking for a light summer or beach read.
The store special of the day was 'Buy any 3 books, get the 4th FREE'. Between Kelly and I, we had everyone covered. :) I think this awesome sale might be on for a while longer, so if you need more books this summer, now's the time to buy them.
I had a great visit with a fan who popped by my table and let me know he really enjoyed The River. Richard visited for a bit, and I was very excited to hear that he's delving back into his own writing. He has a premise for a thriller set in a very mysterious Canadian location that I think will sell like hotcakes! And thanks for your support, Richard. I hope you enjoy Whale Song! :)
The Authors Extravaganza was fun. Thanks to Trish, Maria, Angie and everyone else at Chapters!! Oh, and the cake was delicious. :)
My next event is the Canadian Authors Association's 2008 CanWrite! Conference, which starts next week from July 3rd-6th.
After that, Edmontonians can pick up my books at Capital Ex (formerly kinown as Klondike Days!) July 17th to 26th. I'll be there to personally sign books on Saturday, July 19th from 12-5. Ex marks the spot! See you there! :)
P.S. I SIGNED a few copies of Whale Song before I left South Point Chapters (3227 Calgary Trail, Edmonton), so if you're collecting autographed books, be sure to pick one up. Don't forget, a percent of my royalties for every sale of Whale Song goes to 3 local nonprofits. :)
Happy reading all!
~Cheryl Kaye Tardif
There were some new faces in the crowd, like Patricia Marie Budd, a historical fiction author, and a few others--I should have written their names down. (Sorry...)
And it was great to see so many familiar faces, like Marty Chan, Dan MacDonald, Jackson Carter, and Kelly Komm.
Marty Chan is a well-known Alberta children's author and his play 'The Forbidden Phoenix' will be at the Citadel Theatre from October 25th to November 9th. It's a "fusion of Peking Opera, martial arts, acrobatics and 'western' musical theatre"--and perfect for the entire family.
Dan MacDonald has a series of small and handy (fits in a purse/pocket) booklets that empower people who want to achieve success in any business venture. Dan also conducts seminars, e-training and more through his company BIS--Business Improvement Solutions.
Jackson Carter is a good friend of mine, and he writes conspiracy thrillers with a Canadian flavor. Check out his novels Bull and Sins in the Name of the Father. He came from the airport to the event--a busy guy!
Kelly Komm is another very good friend of mine. Her debut novel Sacrifice officially released in March. I've read this YA fantasy novel and loved it. She's busy working on the sequel. Although Sacrifice is marketed mainly as Young Adult, it is perfectly suitable for adults, especially if you're looking for a light summer or beach read.
The store special of the day was 'Buy any 3 books, get the 4th FREE'. Between Kelly and I, we had everyone covered. :) I think this awesome sale might be on for a while longer, so if you need more books this summer, now's the time to buy them.
I had a great visit with a fan who popped by my table and let me know he really enjoyed The River. Richard visited for a bit, and I was very excited to hear that he's delving back into his own writing. He has a premise for a thriller set in a very mysterious Canadian location that I think will sell like hotcakes! And thanks for your support, Richard. I hope you enjoy Whale Song! :)
The Authors Extravaganza was fun. Thanks to Trish, Maria, Angie and everyone else at Chapters!! Oh, and the cake was delicious. :)
My next event is the Canadian Authors Association's 2008 CanWrite! Conference, which starts next week from July 3rd-6th.
After that, Edmontonians can pick up my books at Capital Ex (formerly kinown as Klondike Days!) July 17th to 26th. I'll be there to personally sign books on Saturday, July 19th from 12-5. Ex marks the spot! See you there! :)
P.S. I SIGNED a few copies of Whale Song before I left South Point Chapters (3227 Calgary Trail, Edmonton), so if you're collecting autographed books, be sure to pick one up. Don't forget, a percent of my royalties for every sale of Whale Song goes to 3 local nonprofits. :)
Happy reading all!
~Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Whale Song crosses racial boundaries
Yesterday at a book signing at Coles in Southgate Shopping Centre in Edmonton, AB, I was reminded of the power of words and what an honor it is to have written a novel that has affected so many. Although Whale Song is a work of fiction, it is also an inspired work that originated from a single, beautiful native legend--a legend that says that if you see a killer whale close to shore, it is really the reincarnated soul of a loved one who has come to say goodbye. Whale Song is a novel of many things--of love, lies, family ties, sacrifice. It is also a novel of racial discrimination and conflict, and one of healing, caring and looking past color or race.
At yesterday's signing I met numerous people who recognized me from recent TV interviews and newspaper features. I also met so many fans, especially Whale Song fans. I don't think I've ever met that many at one signing. A young teen came up to me and told me she loved Whale Song and that it was her favorite book. One man came up and asked if I had another novel out yet because his wife loved my work and was collecting my books. Another woman stopped by and told me how much she cried when she read Whale Song and how she was recommending it to all her friends.
Then Hanid, a sweet woman (from India, I believe), whom I immediately recognized from a previous signing, came up to me and told me how much she had loved reading Whale Song. She said it had affected her so deeply that she thought about it for days afterward. She had bought a copy for herself and for her mom a few months ago and she "loved Whale Song too". Hanid said something that floored me. She said that she thinks I should have won the Nobel Peace Prize for Whale Song. Wow! We talked for about 15 minutes and I listened as she told me about my characters, the ones I'd created, describing them in such a way that showed how real the story was for her. Here was a reader who had connected deeply. To the characters and to the messages within.
Hanid then bought two more copies of Whale Song to send to a friend in the city and to a relative in Pakistan. She returned to my table and handed me a gift bag. I was stunned by her generous spirit. The gift was lovely. It contained scented lotion and a huge bottle of one of my favorite perfumes--one that I am nearly out of. Of all the perfumes to give me...
She left with two copies of Whale Song, and I was left feeling very blessed to have met such wonderful fans and very grateful to have made an impact--even a small one--on someone's life and thinking.
My experience at this one signing really opened my eyes to the universal appeal of Whale Song. Those who had read it and loved it were from various nationalities and skin colors. Those who bought yesterday also came from different countries. I have seen international sales to many countries now--the US, England, France, Scotland, China, Japan, Australia, India, the Ukraine, Pakistan and more. English versions, no translations.
Whale Song crosses racial boundaries because it deals with a young white girl who is thrown into a completely different culture--the native culture. This is a story of how friendships are made with open hearts, hearts that don't see skin color or race. Hearts that share their experiences and knowledge from different worlds maybe, but hearts that share, all the same.
Whale Song knows no boundaries, and that is why I believe that people all over the world are reading it...and 'getting it'.
Yesterday made me remember a project that one of my author friends is involved in. Luanne Rice wrote a lovely novel called What Matters Most and a website explores that sentiment too, allowing you to post 'What Matters Most' to you (I invite you to do so). Whale Song explores 'what matters most', and I think that is why it will continue to cross boundaries and dissolve racial discrimination. What matters most is love, caring, family...life. And for me...making a difference.
If you send Whale Song as a gift to someone in another country as a gift, please let me know. It gives me immense pleasure to know that it is crossing boundaries everywhere. You can buy Whale Song at your favorite bookstore. If it isn't on the shelves, please ask them to order it in. Or you can order online from various retailers like Chapters.ca or Amazon.com.
To everyone who stopped by my table yesterday, thank YOU. You all gifted me with your stories and your interest. And since a portion of my royalties from the sale of every Whale Song goes to 3 non-profit organizations, together we have made a difference. And believe me, talking to each of you has made a difference in my life.
At yesterday's signing I met numerous people who recognized me from recent TV interviews and newspaper features. I also met so many fans, especially Whale Song fans. I don't think I've ever met that many at one signing. A young teen came up to me and told me she loved Whale Song and that it was her favorite book. One man came up and asked if I had another novel out yet because his wife loved my work and was collecting my books. Another woman stopped by and told me how much she cried when she read Whale Song and how she was recommending it to all her friends.
Then Hanid, a sweet woman (from India, I believe), whom I immediately recognized from a previous signing, came up to me and told me how much she had loved reading Whale Song. She said it had affected her so deeply that she thought about it for days afterward. She had bought a copy for herself and for her mom a few months ago and she "loved Whale Song too". Hanid said something that floored me. She said that she thinks I should have won the Nobel Peace Prize for Whale Song. Wow! We talked for about 15 minutes and I listened as she told me about my characters, the ones I'd created, describing them in such a way that showed how real the story was for her. Here was a reader who had connected deeply. To the characters and to the messages within.
Hanid then bought two more copies of Whale Song to send to a friend in the city and to a relative in Pakistan. She returned to my table and handed me a gift bag. I was stunned by her generous spirit. The gift was lovely. It contained scented lotion and a huge bottle of one of my favorite perfumes--one that I am nearly out of. Of all the perfumes to give me...
She left with two copies of Whale Song, and I was left feeling very blessed to have met such wonderful fans and very grateful to have made an impact--even a small one--on someone's life and thinking.
My experience at this one signing really opened my eyes to the universal appeal of Whale Song. Those who had read it and loved it were from various nationalities and skin colors. Those who bought yesterday also came from different countries. I have seen international sales to many countries now--the US, England, France, Scotland, China, Japan, Australia, India, the Ukraine, Pakistan and more. English versions, no translations.
Whale Song crosses racial boundaries because it deals with a young white girl who is thrown into a completely different culture--the native culture. This is a story of how friendships are made with open hearts, hearts that don't see skin color or race. Hearts that share their experiences and knowledge from different worlds maybe, but hearts that share, all the same.
Whale Song knows no boundaries, and that is why I believe that people all over the world are reading it...and 'getting it'.
Yesterday made me remember a project that one of my author friends is involved in. Luanne Rice wrote a lovely novel called What Matters Most and a website explores that sentiment too, allowing you to post 'What Matters Most' to you (I invite you to do so). Whale Song explores 'what matters most', and I think that is why it will continue to cross boundaries and dissolve racial discrimination. What matters most is love, caring, family...life. And for me...making a difference.
If you send Whale Song as a gift to someone in another country as a gift, please let me know. It gives me immense pleasure to know that it is crossing boundaries everywhere. You can buy Whale Song at your favorite bookstore. If it isn't on the shelves, please ask them to order it in. Or you can order online from various retailers like Chapters.ca or Amazon.com.
To everyone who stopped by my table yesterday, thank YOU. You all gifted me with your stories and your interest. And since a portion of my royalties from the sale of every Whale Song goes to 3 non-profit organizations, together we have made a difference. And believe me, talking to each of you has made a difference in my life.
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