Next thing you know Joe Rogan is at the door saying, 'surprise' and all the kids ran out the door like it was Christmas or something.

This really isn't my event, it for everybody that's involved. It's for the kids, adults and the volunteers. They're the ones who make it happen and make it so special.

We've had to re-establish the program over the last three years after graduating a strong crop of kids four years ago. I almost feel like we picked up where we left off from last year since we returned so many players and the kids have fantastic attitudes.

The kids really look forward to it. It's a big incentive for them. It's a status thing.

(Ready Kids) is what the American Red Cross has been saying all along in terms of being prepared. In a way, everyone is starting to talk the same language. Which is kind of nice.

If we're saying they're the same kids (as are there now) and we're providing in essence the same services ... why would we ask for a variance?