Andy The Seed

Andy was born in 2005 when his writer, Alan Keith, had an unexpected moment of inspiration. While watching the film Mrs. Potter, which shares the tale of famed author Beatrix Potter, Alan was touched by the movie’s opening line. The first words spoken in Mrs. Potter are, “You never quite know where a story will lead you,” and upon hearing them, Alan realized he felt quite the opposite – he knew exactly how he wanted to tell the story of Andy. Alan immediately began inventing Andy the Little Seed, and now, Andy’s journey has evolved into a book series about his compassionate, fun-loving character. Andy, a dandelion seed who travels the world, strives to help people discover solutions to their problems. Andy’s stories help teach children how to brave difficulties, as it inspires them to help others. The first book in the Andy the Seed series follows Andy as he meets a mouse who finds himself having a tough day after being teased by his friends. Find out how Andy saves the day in Andy the Little Seed Who Liked to Help! Andy's author is honored to have the opportunity to share his character with children and adults everywhere, and we hope you’ll visit Andy often through his blog and website.

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FAMILY FUN: Join Andy for a Reading!

Would you like the chance to meet Andy and his author, Alan Keith? Then don't miss the upcoming reading of Andy the Little Seed Who Likes to Help, happening this Saturday, April 28! We hope you'll join us, and we can't wait to share Andy's message of kindness toward others with children and families around the city.

In the Know: In his first public appearance this spring, Andy will take the stage at Lucky Dog Books, as series author Alan Keith hosts a reading for his first book, Andy the Little Seed Who Liked to Help. Andy and his creator have previously visited the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for private readings to benefit patients in residence.

When and Where: Attend our reading this Saturday, April 28, at 11 a.m.; you'll find us at Lucky Dog Books, 10801 Garland Road. 

About the Event: The reading is open to the public, and attendance is free of charge. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase Andy the Little Seed Who Liked to Help during the event.

Learn More: Connect with Andy and his inventor online at the book series' website and Facebook page. Buy the book asap by clicking here!

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SEED STORIES: The Greer Garson Gala

Always dreamed of being on the silver screen? It's time to put on your most fabulous frock and practice your most alluring pose because Dallas' annual Greer Garson Gala will celebrate "The Golden Age of Hollywood" on April 21. 

In honor of the prestigious fundraising bash, the team behind Andy the Seed is highlighting Garson's incredible contributions to the health care community in today's edition of "Seed Stories." Not to mention we'll be filling you in on the decadent details of the upcoming gala, which will benefit Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital's Women and Infant Services.

Seed Star: An Academy Award-winning actress and philanthropist, Garson was a long-time supporter of the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital.  Following her husband's death from complications related to Parkinson's disease, Garson became particularly active in raising awareness for Parkinson's, avidly promoting research and other initiatives.

Save the Date: "The Golden Age of Hollywood" will come to life at Union Station on the evening of April 21 at 7 p.m. Co-chairs Brook and Aaron Shelby and honorary chairs Amy and Corey Prestidge will take their guests back in time to 1943, transforming the downtown venue into the famed Cocoanut Grove. The Grove, which served as the setting for the 15th Academy Award ceremony, will pay homage to Garson's Best Actress Oscar win for her role in Mrs. Miniver.

Support the Cause: Funds raised during the philanthropic bash will go toward the hospital's Women and Infant Services. In an official statement, the gala's leaders described the importance of the cause, noting,  "More than 100,000 babies have come into the world at the Margot Perot Center for Women and Infants since its opening in 1983. The Margot Perot Center houses a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a 44-bed Special Care Nursery to serve the hospital's tiniest patients. Another integral part of Women and Infant Services is The Peggy A. Bell Women's Diagnostic and Breast Center, which offers the latest medical technology for detecting breast cancer in a comfortable and warm environment."

Sell Out: Tickets for the popular party are no longer available online, indicating a sell out, but interested parties can contact Johanna Bates ([email protected]) for more information. Learn more about the benefit and the beneficiaries through the event website, TexasHealth.org/GreerGarsonGala.

To keep up with the adventures of Andy and his author Alan Keith, make sure to connect with us via Facebook!

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ANDY'S DAY: Egg-Cited for Spring Holidays!

I can't wait for a visit from the Easter Bunny this weekend! And even if your family doesn't celebrate the holiday, there are still lots of fun activities to enjoy all spring long. Let me tell you about a few of my April favorites!

                Kids connect with art during Family Days at the Crow.

AdventureAsia: Family Days at the Crow. Saturday, April 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; the Crow Collection of Asian Art, 2010 Flora Street. Enjoy tea ceremonies, collection tours, family yoga, Asian-themed face-painting, and a play performance by students from the S.S. Connor Elementary School during a fabulous day of fun!

           Kids pal around with ponies both large and small at Nash Farm.

Spring Into Nash Farm. Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Nash Farm in Grapevine, 626 Ball Street. Check out cooking and blacksmith demonstrations, learn to make your own jump ropes, take part in a hayride, and pet some precious farm animals during the 11th annual event at Nash Farm.

             The Fine Arts Chamber Players host popular music lessons.

Bancroft Family Concerts, by the Fine Arts Chamber Players. Saturday, April 28, at 3 p.m.; Dallas Museum of Art's Horchow Auditorium, 1717 North Harwood. Don't miss the Verlaine Trio featuring Maria Schleuning, violinist with Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Artistic Director of Voices of Change; Jolyon Pegis, Dallas Symphony Orchestra Associate Principal Cellist; and Liudmila Georgievskaya, award-winning Russian pianist.

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SEED STORIES: The South Dallas AIDS Walk

This weekend, Andy will be lacing up his tennis shoes to race for a great cause! Join Andy and friends on Saturday, March 24, for the second annual South Dallas AIDS Walk (SDAW) to learn more about the awesome organization's mission and how you can help them succeed in serving the Dallas community.

Seed Star: Anthony Chisom, founder of the SDAW and the Anthony Chisom AIDS Foundation.

The Project: On Saturday, Chisom will encourage Dallas to walk it out for a great cause during the 2012 SDAW. Register online at the event's website to join Chisom and friends for the 2.1-mile walk, which begins at 10 a.m. at the South Dallas Cultural Center, 3400 South Fitzhugh. Chisom notes of the founding of the SDAW,  "I encountered one individual named Marsha Jones of the Afyia Center and the Dallas Chapter of Campaign to End AIDS.  She stated that she felt the community needed an additional AIDS Walk type of event - LifeWalk is the city's first and largest -  that could meet the needs of additional populations of underserved individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.  I told her that if there was ever a way that I could bring about such an event, that I would...thus the SDAW was born."

  Chisom and Coke Buchanan celebrate during the 2011 SDAW.

The Buzz. "The reason I am so passionate about this cause is because I have been knowingly living with HIV since my diagnosis in 1999 just before my 30th birthday. Additionally, I have encountered a great many co-workers, employees, friends, associates, and partners who have been affected by HIV, and I wanted to make a difference.  I feel that because I live this experience daily - knowing it affects each of us differently - that I have  a voice that can work to bring empowerment to the lives of those we serve.  I also have a passion because I know that this is why I was born," Chisom said, commenting on what continually motivates him to carry out the mission of the SDAW.

The Scene. Chisom filled us in on the details of this Saturday's SDAW, and his awesome fundraiser, co-chaired by Auntjuan Wiley and Monica T. Garrett, will feature great live music, kids activities, and many opportunities to meet and hear from diverse philanthropic organizations. CW33 reporter Ashley Roberts will team up with Phil Wilson, founder and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, to serve as co-ambassadors for the race.

Andy Says: He can't wait to lace up his running shoes for the SDAW! Andy will participate in event by helping entertain the kids that will be on hand during the race, and supporters of the SDAW will host a reading of Andy the LIttle Seed Who Liked to Help. Those attending the race will have the opportunity to win copies of the book, and a few of Andy's special helpers will also have books available for purchase.

Connect with the SDAW via Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, and visit the SDAW website for more information. To learn more about Andy's mission to help others, visit him and his author, Alan Keith, online through their website and Facebook page.

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FAMILY FUN: Get Outside!

Looking for some Andy-approved activities to get you and your family moving this March? We’re sharing nine awesome events around the metroplex that are sure to inspire and entertain kids and adults of all ages, and the best part -  each of the recommended events are free of charge. So, go on, get outside and enjoy Dallas’ gorgeous spring weather!

Nature Walk at the River Legacy Living Science Center

When: March 10, 2 p.m.

What: Explore nature trails on a naturalist-led walk around cool center; guests must register by March 9 to attend.

Where: Arlington’s River Legacy Living Science Center; 703 NW Green Oak Boulevard.

Connect: Website,  Facebook

Family Fun Week at the Amon Carter Museum

When: March 13 to 16; 10:30 a.m. to Noon daily

What: Discover four American artists through art exploration and art making; each day features different artists, artwork, and activities. And did we mention refreshements are provided?

Where: Fort Worth’s Amon Carter Museum; 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard

Connect: Website, Facebook

                    Kids pal around at the Amon Carter Museum.

Spring Break ‘Til Midnight at the Nasher Sclupture Center

When: March 16, 7p.m. to Midnight.

What: Enjoy an outdoor concert by Emerald City and a screening of Academy Award-winning film, Hugo; guests can bring picnic supplies or purchase snacks on site.

Where: Dallas’ Nasher Sclupture Center; 2001 Flora Street.

Connect: Website, Facebook

             Patrons enjoy a concert at the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Fine Art Fair in the Garden at the Dallas Arboretum

When: March 16 to 18; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

What: The Arboretum debuts the work of multiple artists, all of which will be on display in booths set among the beauty of the venue’s 500,000 blooming spring bulbs.

Where: Dallas Arboretum; 8525 Garland Road

Connect: Website, Facebook

                      The spring scene at the Dallas Arboretum.

Cowtown Goes Green at the Fort Worth Stockyards

When: March 17, 1 to 4 p.m.

What: Cowtown Goes Green is the largest and most family friendly St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the metroplex; watch the parade, cattle drive, and Western-themed shows on display while enjoying great live music.

Where: Fort Worth Stockyards Station; 130 East Exchange Avenue

Connect: Website, Facebook

Community Fest at Senter Park Recreation

When: March 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What: Take in vendor exhibits, entertainment, food, and a children's area with a climbing walls and arts and crafts while attending the Community Fest.

Where: Irving’s Senter Park Recreation; 901 Senter Road

Connect: Website, Facebook

KidsFest and the Great Egg Hunt at the Firewheel Town Center

When: March 31, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What:  Go on an egg hunt, listen to live entertainment from Radio Disney, make arts and crafts, and enjoy prizes and face painting at KidsFet; proceeds to to benefit the Galaxy Counseling Center.

Where: Garland’s Firewheel Town Center; 245 Cedar Sage Road

Connect: Website, Facebook

Fort Worth Paririe Fest at the Tandy Hills Natural Area

When: March 31, 4 p.m. to Dusk

What: Known as the best place for wildflower viewing in north Texas, the Tandy Hills Natural Area hosts its annual Prairie Fest to provide families with the chance to get some exercise and drink in the amazing diversity of the region. The event features hundreds of exhibitors, as well as guided tours and concerts.

Where: Fort Worth’s Tandy Hills Natural Area; 3400 View Street

Connect: Website, Facebook 

Grand Prairie Farmers Market Season Opening

When: March 31, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

What: The BBQ & Blues opening bash for the city’s spring farmers markets will feature hundreds of vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, coffee, tea, tamales, jellies and relishes, grass-fed meats, homemade soaps, candles and more.

Where: Downtown Grand Prairie; 120 West Main Street

Connect: Website, Facebook 

Visit Andy the Seed on Facebook, or check out the website to find out more about the little seed who likes to help!

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SEED STORIES: The Memnosyne Foundation's Coke Buchanan

We're fortunate to know many individuals and organizations that share Andy the Little Seed's passion for helping others, and we love sharing the stories of those that use their time and talents to provide for people in need! Today, we're recognizing Dallas do-gooder Coke Buchanan, a director for the Memnosyne Foundation, in honor of his recent project for the Lakota Sioux Tribe. Meet our inaugural Seed Star and learn more about his inspiring mission!

Seed Star: The Memnosyne Foundation's Coke Buchanan; director for the organization's Center for Indigenous Cultures, Center for Spirituality, and Center For Global and Local Outreach.

Coke Buchanan (second from left) with Alan Keith (far right), author of Andy the Little Seed Who Liked to Help during the Memnosyne Foundation's Conscious Cultural Creators Conference.

The foundation's creator, Mary Ann Thompson-Frenk (left), during a recent event for the Center for Indigenous Cultures.

The Project: Emergency outreach to the Lakota Sioux Tribe. Desparately seeking winter weather necessities, the Lakota Sioux Tribe called on the Memnosyne Foundation, and Buchanan immediately mounted an astonishingly successful clothing drive to provide relief for those in need. And did we mention that he personally delivered the items to the Lakota Sioux Tribe earlier this month?

The Buzz: "The foundation didn't have any budget set aside for emergency aid when a call for help from the Lakota Sioux Tribe came to our director for the Memnosyne Center for Indigenous Cultures, Coke Buchanan. But Coke flew into action, leading The Memnosyne Foundation's coat/blanket drive with the help of local places of worship, The Cathedral of Hope and Unity Church …coats, blankets, jackets, sweaters and more soon covered the organization's conference table, couches, floors and were even encroaching on the printers … Thank you for making it possible to help the beautiful people of the Lakota Sioux Nation stay warm!"

Just a few of the generous donations accumulated by Buchanan to provide aid to the Lakota Sioux Tribe.

The Memnosyne Mission: Helping the diverse people of the world consciously encourage an evolution for themselves and for future generations by providing mankind with the means to encourage positive, peaceful global collaboration in all areas of knowledge. The Memnosyne Foundation achieves our mission through ongoing global programs, via a virtual campus and the establishment of The Memnosyne Campus for Humanity. 

The Programs: The foundation is organized around seven centers: Center for Interfaith Inquiry; Center for Environment, Science, and Economics; Center for Indigenous Culture; Center for Global and Local Outreach; Center for Health and Medicine; Center for Spirituality; and Center for Art. The goals for each Memnosyne Foundation center are to:

Provide a safe, neutral environment in which to 
seek understanding through the exchange of ideas

Foster shared human values

Establish opportunities to unite in thought and collaborate 
in action

Promote global peace by recognizing the value of 
each individual's knowledge

Get Connected: On Facebook and YouTube.

Join Andy the Seed on Facebook to see more Seed Stories, and visit our website to learn more the children's book about Andy and his mission help others!

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MEET ANDY: The Little Seed Who Liked To Help

Do you like to help others? Andy does too! Meet the star of my children’s book series, Andy the Little Seed Who Liked to Help. 

When I began writing the first book about Andy in 2005, I did not realize how timely his story of compassion for helping others truly was, and I’m thrilled to introduce you to Andy’s journeys, with the sincere hope that his message of kindness towards others will be shared with children everywhere.

Andy is a caring, fun-loving dandelion seed who travels the world helping people discover solutions to their problems, and each book in my series teaches children a new lesson about how to brave difficulties, while inspiring them to lend a helping hand to others. In his first adventure, we follow Andy’s meeting with a mouse who is very, very sad because all the other mice are laughing and teasing him. I can’t wait for you to find out how Andy helps him!

I’m pleased to welcome you to Andy’s blog, and we hope you’ll visit us often. Through our blog, website, and Facebook page, the team behind Andy the Seed will be sharing our favorite ideas for family fun, the best of Dallas’ philanthropic scene, and of course, Andy’s thoughts and inspirations in his own words.

Author of Andy the Seed series, Alan Keith, pals around with fellow writer Rhonda Rich during a Dallas benefit for the Memnosyne Foundation.

Buy the first book in Andy’s series now by visiting our website, at AndyTheSeed.com, and makes sure to connect with us on Facebook as well. Stay tuned to learn more about Andy’s next journey and become one of Andy’s Helpers!