We landed front row seats to the performance of the century for the Kern River Valley Ward. My applause goes out to all who made this night a success. I am amazed by the courage and strength of each of the women who performed. I am truly grateful that I wasn't asked to be involved. They practiced for hours and hour to bring forth this inspired musical program. I am very proud of my sister who conquered her fear of publicly singing a solo. I didn't think any Kent girl could carry a tune, but she proved me wrong. Very impressive Krissy!
Thanks for all your support!
Sunday, March 22, 2009 at 12:13 PM {1 comments}
Lake Isabella not only showed their support yesterday at the Race for Results but were among the winners in many age categories. Kenny Bushling, Emily Gonzalez, Zac Bushling, Taryn Kent, Teyah Bushling, Daniel Minor and Marcia Kent all placed in their age divisions. Go Kern Valley!
The weather turned out a beautiful morning for walking and fun was had by all. I am very grateful for our many friends and family who were in attendance. Your support is very much appreciated.
Kelly's debute to the Kern Valley Sun
Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at 12:56 PM {3 comments}
Published on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 8:09 PM PDT
Kelly Kent
Special to the Sun
Not many people have heard of Friedreich's ataxia (FA), a neuro-muscular disease that affects one in 50,000 people in the United States. Three lifetime residents of Squirrel Valley, Joe Kent, 34, Nicole Kent, 30, and Kelly Kent, 24, were diagnosed in childhood with this progressive, genetic disease. Joe, Nicole, and Kelly developed like any other child. Each reached the same early milestones as any other child would—talking, walking, etc. But over time, they began losing coordination in their arms and legs. By their early teens, they became wheelchair bound. Some of their other symptoms include: visual impairment, hearing loss, slurred speech, and scoliosis. Friedreich's ataxia has no effect whatsoever on mental capabilities. Joe and Nicole received bachelor's degrees from C.S.U.B. and B.Y.U., while Kelly remains a permanent junior at C.S.U.B. Despite having a progressive disease wreaking havoc in their family, the Kents remain positive. Humor and their faith play important roles in their lives. The family refers to themselves as ‘the Wheelchair Brigade’ and their car as ‘the Handi Van.’
In April of last year, the 2nd Annual "Race 4 Results" 5K/10K raised $11,901.60 for the FARA (Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance), a national, public, non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to researching Friedreich’s ataxia. FARA researches FA in order to improve quality and length of life for patients and, possibly, to find a cure. At the finish line, prizes were awarded to the participants, and a bouncy house entertained children, as well as some adults. Corporate sponsors included Costco, San Joaquin Community Hospital, and Jake’s Tex Mex Restaurant.
This year the 3rd Annual "Race 4 Results" 5K/10K will take place on Saturday, March 21, at Yokuts Park in Bakersfield at 8:00 a.m. Check-in begins at 7:00 a. m. Registration for individuals is $30 and a team of four individuals is $100. The entry forms are available at bakersfieldtrackclub.com. Registration includes a T-shirt, goodie bag, and a BBQ lunch. Ending on March 13, pre-registration guarantees applicants a T-shirt. Individuals not walking/running can purchase the BBQ lunch for $6. Please join with the Kents in the fight against Friedreich's ataxia.
Its that time of year again.....
Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 10:09 PM {1 comments}
Please come participate in the 3rd Annual "Race 4 Results" for Friedreich's Ataxia. This year the 5K/10K will occur on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 8:00am.
Check-in begins at 7:00 am. The event will take place at Yokuts Park in Bakersfield. Registration for individuals is $30 and teams of four is $100. The entry forms are available at bakersfieldtrackclub.com. Registration includes a T-shirt, goodie bag, and a BBQ lunch. Pre-registration guarantees you a T-shirt and ends on Friday, March 13th.