Zingari: A Culture of Cirque

Lone Star Circus - Zingari - Mina Frannea

Review of Lone Star Circus’ Zingari

An intimate theater setting, performances that defy gravity and artistry that captivates the imagination – that’s what Lone Star Circus brings to DFW locals with its annual holiday cirque productions. My family and I saw Zingari opening weekend and had a great time.

Paying homage to the Gypsy roots of many circus families, including Lone Star Circus founder and creative director Fanny Kerwich, Zingari brings to the stage an amazing cast of international and local circus artists. An eighth generation circus performer, Kerwich is passionate about sharing the magic of the circus arts and has helped grow Lone Star Circus into a much anticipated attraction with a loyal following that grows each year.

Easter Eggstravaganza and Resource Fair for Special Needs Families

Easter Eggstravaganza for Special Needs Families

4th Annual Easter Event for Special Needs Families on April 19th

by Mina Frannea

Four years ago, a mom with a special needs child decided she wanted to help other families like hers so she created Especially Needed, an organization based on a vision that a community can exist where individuals with special needs are valued, respected and included. A community made up of caring people who serve as a support system as well as mentors to children and adults.

On Saturday, April 19th from 1-3pm, Especially Needed is hosting their 4th annual Easter Event and Resource Fair for individuals with special needs and their families. All participants will have an opportunity to hunt eggs at their own pace so register for a time slot at www.especiallyneeded.org. There will also be special egg hunts for those that require wheelchair assistance.  Other activities include bounce house, pics with the Easter Bunny, games and more.

13 Year Old’s Family Fights for Her Life

Jahi McMath’s Family Continues to Hope and Fight for her Life

by Mina Frannea

Can you imagine having to face turning off life support for your child?  That’s what Jahi McMath’s family have been dealing with for the last couple of weeks. Jahi, a vibrant 13-year-old went in for ‘routine’ tonsil surgery at Children’s Hospital Oakland to treat sleep apnea issues. Shortly after the surgery, Jahi suffered severe complications that left the teen brain dead and on a ventilator.

On Dec 12, Doctor’s at the hospital declared Jahi legally dead and were planning to remove her from the ventilator. Jahi’s family took legal measures to stop this action and and received a restraining order from a judge that stops the hospital from turning off life support. This ruling gives Jahi’s family until 5 p.m. Jan. 7, 2014 to appeal to a higher court and find a new facility to which they can transfer the 13-year-old.