Save the ONDCP!

At the beginning of May, the White House released the budget for Fiscal Year 2018 with massive cuts to the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) by 95%. The ONDCP "provides critical coordination of the federal response to the drug issue, including the current opioid epidemic, and essential programs such as the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and Drug Free Communities program. These resources are needed now more than ever."

HIDTA helps federal, state, and local enforcement departments work together in 49 out of the 50 states. The program is crucial for enforcement departments to catch and stop drug dealers with thorough investigations. Furthermore, the Drug Free Communities SupportProgram is the country's biggest drug prevention program funding more than 5,000 local drug prevention community-based coalitions all over the United States.

In March, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order to establish a committee to handle the opioid epidemic with the ONDCP giving support to the committee. The acting director of the ONDCP, Richard Baum stated, "I have been encouraged by the Administration's commitment to addressing the opioid epidemic, and the President's personal engagement on the issue, both during the campaign and since he was sworn into office. These drastic proposed cuts are frankly heartbreaking, and if carried out, would cause us to lose many good people who contribute greatly to ONDCP's mission and core activities."

The cuts to the ONDCP would not only hinder the efforts already put forth to battle the opioid epidemic but make it almost impossible to continue to provide support and treatment for those fighting addiction. 

Senator Chuck Grassley is opposed to the ONDCP budget cuts. Today he co-signed a letter to the Office of Management and Budget stating, “Healthcare, lost productivity and criminal justice costs associated with addiction are estimated to cost $193 billion annually, whereas every $1 invested in prevention yields a savings of up to $10. Therefore we must invest in effective prevention programs, and continue to support the Drug Free Communities program.  Since its inception, the program has achieved statistically significant reductions in youth drug use. We must also maintain strong law enforcement efforts to address the trafficking of these dangerous substances.  In 2014 alone, the 28 existing [High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas] dismantled 2,880 drug trafficking organizations.”

Take time to send an email to members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the White House to express your disagreement with this proposed budget and to save the Office of National Drug Control Policy at this link: 

https://secure3.convio.net/dfk/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=143

We have made so much progress fighting the opioid epidemic recently. Let's not back track with such a important issue!!! 

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/white-house-dismisses-concerns-over-steep-potential-cuts-to-drug-czar-office/

https://www.portman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DFF015F5-D2DC-4D6A-929A-BD3D542F63C5

Got Philanthropy?

"I don't think you ever stop giving. I really don't. I think it's an ongoing process. And it's not just about being able to write a check. It's about being able to touch somebody's life."    

~Oprah Winfrey

Whether you know it or not, philanthropy has touched almost everyone's life in some form. This could be in the form of scholarships or gifts. Many institutions such as the University of Iowa are touched daily by philanthropic activities. Philanthropy can be broadly defined as love for humankind. It is derived from the Greek words "philos," which means loving and "anthropos," which means humankind. 

Philanthropy is thousands of years old. Like modern philanthropists, ancient people practiced philanthropy for different reasons. Some reasons were kindness and concern for the common good. Some people used philanthropy as a way to gain recognition, prestige, and power and others saw philanthropy as a way to gain the favor of the gods.

Philanthropy is important because it provides opportunities and has the ability to impact future generations. As a member of the Student Philanthropy Group or PHIL at the University of Iowa, I act as an ambassador on campus. The purpose is to build awareness among students about the importance of private support in enhancing their educational experience at Iowa, and to actively engage current UI students in all aspects of philanthropy.

Today kicks off PHIL's Week at the University of Iowa! This is a week we in PHIL dedicate to raising awareness of philanthropy on campus. Today on campus students and faculty will be wearing stickers that say "I am PHIL" to raise awareness. Tomorrow morning, all PHIL members will "tag" the buildings impacted by philanthropy on campus with yellow caution tape that says PHIL Was Here. Wednesday we are holding a Faces of PHIL event on the T. Anne Cleary Walkway. The Faces of Phil event will show how peoples’ gifts are transforming the University of Iowa! You can take a Polaroid and post it on our Faces of Phil board, “PHIL up” at our food trucks, and sign a “thank you” postcard (or record a “thank you” video message) for some of our generous donors. Join us to celebrate the power of Phil at Iowa!

https://www.facebook.com/events/182459585598312/

Finally, Thursday we are have the Life with PHIL talk featuring Sheri Salata. Come and learn more about Phil from media powerhouse Sheri Salata (1980 B.B.A.), the former executive producer of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and the former president of Harpo Studios and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Salata’s latest professional venture is the launching of STORY, a media company that produces print, television, film, and digital content. She has been named one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business and one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/1909839572586897/

Philanthropy is more than just money. You have the chance and opportunity to impact future generations. Philanthropy is sharing one’s resources but it also delves into one’s passion to create and enhance civil society. So when you have the opportunity to be a philanthropist, DON'T MISS IT!

1,2,3...ABC...

Since I was young, dancing has been an enormous part of my life. Beginning dance at the age of 3, I had no idea how far my love would grow. I began like most little girls do, participating in every form of dance: ballet, tap, jazz, etc. Throughout the years, I found tap dancing to be the most challenging for me and developed a love for it.

Tap Dancing originated in the United States via a mix of percussive dances. Throughout the decades, tap dancing has evolved. During the 1920's tap shoes became known as they are today with the "taps" nailed or screwed onto the shoe at the toes and heels. Shows such as Shuffle Along (1921) helped to give tap dancing its name. 

Tap is unique because it is music and movement. Different countries and regions have varied tap styles such as Irish step dancing and Mexican ballet folkórico. In the United States, tap dancing has undergone a revival. This can be seen in the movie Happy Feet an exceptional tap dancer, the penguin Mumble, stands out from the rest. Today, tapping is a multicultural style that conveys numerous traditions, emotions, and rhythms.

So, why does Tap Dance ROCK?!

1.  Anyone can do it.
2.  The Legacy.
3. It's the Music and the Attraction.
4. It's Noisy!
5. It's Fun Fitness!
6. It makes you Smarter!
7. Improves Balance.
8. It's Everywhere.
9. It's Entertaining!

Tap Dancing has changed my life for the better and is a past-time I never want to give up. I have never encountered something as simple and complex as tap dancing. I relate to it on the most basic, visceral levels, but also the most abstract. Creating music and movement simultaneously allows me to be equally logical and imaginative. That is why moving to music feels so good; moving in order to make music feels even better. If you want to see me perform something I love, attend the 2017 Miss Iowa Scholarship Program on June 22, 23, and 24!

STAY TAPPY!

For the Kids

As a titleholder for the Miss America Scholarship Program, I have spent a lot of time working with the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Iowa City has been fortunate to be able to build an entirely new children's hospital, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. The new design is meant to ease stress, encourage hope, and provide comfort. As a member of the Student Philanthropy Group at the University of Iowa, I have had the privilege to watch the hospital be built, participate in the opening, and tour the new hospital.

The University of Iowa is Iowa's only:

1. Nationally Ranked Children's Hospital
2. Comprehensive Children's Hospital
3. Level 4 NICU
4. Level 1 Trauma Center for Pediatrics
5. Pediatric Dermatologists
6. Pediatrics Genetics Team
7. Pediatric Renal Dialysis
8. Pediatric Rheumatologists
9. Pediatric Urologists
10. Pediatric Heart, Kidney, Liver, Pancreas, and Blood and Bone Marrow Transplants

During 2015, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital had 67, 239 unique patients from every county in Iowa, nearly every state in the United States, and several other countries; more than 170 pediatric doctors, surgeons, and dentists; and more than 500 specially trained pediatric nurses. So when they say you are receiving the best care, they mean it. 

The construction of the new hospital began in the Fall of 2012. Each of the 14 floors has a unique color and icon to make recognition easy. Here are some fun facts about the new hospital:

1. Approximate Cost: $360 MILLION
2. Size: 507,000 Gross Square Feet of New Construction
3. Height: 164 Feet- Making it the Tallest Building in Iowa City
4. 7,557 Light Fixtures
5. 1,168 Doors
6. 24,264 Square Feet of Terrazzo Flooring
7. Underground Parking: 650 Spots
8. 5,100 Tons of Steel
9. 12 Miles of Duct Work
10. 8,324 Outlets

My work with the Children's Miracle Network has helped to make these pristine care facilities possible for so many sick and injured children. As I continue to work hard to support CMN, I hope you will support me. The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals makes sure that donated funds stay local which means that your donation helps kids and families right here in our community. If you would like to support me and the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, go to:

http://www.missamericaforkids.org/Donate/maddisonlange

 I invite you to join me in touching the lives of sick and injured children today. For the Kids!

No Regrets

Disaster can strike when you least expect it. People pass away too young, tornadoes strike, and financial struggles happen. In today's world, you have to learn to expect the unexpected and take extra steps as a precaution. But, the one thing we learn is to live with no regrets and cherish the time we have with the ones we love. One of my favorite things as well as one of my biggest values is family.

Being the youngest of four children, I have learned and watched my family grow and evolve as new members have entered. A few of my favorite titles are Aunt Maddie (times SEVEN), sister, and daughter. Just like any other family, we have gone through challenges and overcome obstacles such as addiction because we love each other and support each other. 

Addiction affects about one in four families. The impact upon the family can be astronomical and everyone in the family feels the stress of the addiction. The best thing to do is to support the addict and let them know you are there for him or her. You cannot force them to change but you can offer help when he or she wants it. Addiction emphasizes the importance of spending time with family. By having a strong relationship with your family members builds strong ties and can help members fight addiction.

Spending time together as a family such as eating dinner together can help everyone in the family. This invites meaningful conversation and allows parents to really get to know their children. In our house, every night we were not at a sporting event we were sitting down at the table eating together. In fact, Joseph Califano, the founder of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse stated, “America’s drug problem is not going to be solved in courtrooms or legislative hearing rooms by judges and politicians. It will be solved in living rooms and dining rooms and across kitchen tables — by parents and families.” The connection that is established by spending time as a family is unmatched.

Unfortunately, we never know how much time we have left, never know when the next disaster will strike, and never know when the next challenge will present itself. Therefore, cherishing time with family and building that relationship with family members becomes even more important so we can face those obstacles. So, my message going forward for you is to live life with no regrets and soak up all the time you can with your family. You never know what you have until it is gone.

Small Things, Big Difference

In 2007, Sam Haskell the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Miss America Organization adopted the Children's Miracle Network as the national platform. Since that time, contestants in the Miss America Program have contributed tens of thousands of community service hours annually and have contributed over $15 MILLION for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. This partnership helps both the Miss America Organization as well as the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals continue to raise awareness across the country.

CMN partners with multiple organizations and businesses around the country to promote and raise funds for the hospitals. Tomorrow, March 7, is IHOP's National Pancake Day from 7 AM to 7 PM where IHOP will be serving free short-stack pancakes. March 20 is Dairy Queen's celebration of Children's Hospital Week with Free Cone Day. Both events appreciate donations to the Children's Miracle Network of $5 while enjoying your free food.

I will be attempting to make it to the Coralville IHOP tomorrow in between the numerous tests I have. I would appreciate everyone coming out and supporting the organization I am passionate about. 

Along with these events, I have participated in multiple other events throughout my involvement. Events such as Dance Marathon, Miss America Serves Day, and recently, the Disney Princess Half-Marathon have made my dedication to the Children's Miracle Network even more prominent. This is also a reason I have chosen to run the Chicago Marathon in October through Dance Marathon. #FortheKids

Every single year during Miss Iowa week, we have the wonderful opportunity to spend a day at the University of Iowa Children's Hospital, now the Stead Family Children's Hospital. After knowing a few kids (Kale and Shelby 💚) who have benefited through the Children's Miracle Network, I can only tell you the importance of fundraising so these kids can have everything they need. These kids go through something only few others can understand. My participation in the Miss America Organization and partnership with the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has inspired me to become a pediatric oncologist so I can continue to help these kiddos fight and be strong. 

The money I raise will help save children’s lives and the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals makes sure that donated funds stay local. This means that your donation helps kids and families right here in our community. So as I continue to raise funds, I encourage you to donate at my donation page: http://www.missamericaforkids.org/Donate/maddisonlange. Furthermore, over my spring break I will be collecting cans to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Your donation does not have to be big, but everything helps to save a child's life. 

If you are debating on donating, think about the number of lives you can impact with a small donation. Here is your thought for the day and week:

Suck It Up Buttercup

Throughout my entire life, I have been an extremely active person. I was a four sport athlete in high school and have always loved to exercise. Until recently, the only thing I absolutely hated was running. Even as a little girl, I refused to play soccer because of the running. Though I did run track in Junior High, I never liked it. 

This past fall I allowed one of my closest friends, Taylor Wiebers, to talk me into signing up for a half-marathon: The Disney Princess Half-Marathon. I did not fully understand what I was getting myself into. Immediately after saying yes, I was completely dreading everything to come especially the training. But knowing the race was for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, I became even more motivated.

Knowing how I am, I knew I had to started training as soon as possible if I was to ever run 13.1 miles in one sitting. Right away, I contacted one of my favorite people- Ray Porter. Ray has been my Yoda throughout this entire experience. I would not be where I am today without him. 

We decided to set small goals to help me reach the BIG one. I ran several 10K races this past fall to continue to motivate myself as well as get used to the racing atmosphere. Overall, I participated in four 10K's, the Living History Farms Race (seven miles), and one Halloween Fun-Run.

I now officially considering myself a runner and definitely have a love-hate relationship with it. Running has taught me numerous things that I can apply to my everyday life: 

1. If you focus on putting one foot in front of the other, you will eventually reach the finish line.
2. You cannot reach the finish line unless you start.
3. The mind is a very powerful thing. If you can train your mind to keep going even when your body wants to quit, you can achieve some incredible things.
4. Accepting that every day is different.
5. Sometimes you need a day off, a day off from everything.
6. The worst time, the slowest pace, the last person to finish the race is still better off than the person who refused to try.
7. Even if you fall, even if you cannot finish today, you can and should pick yourself up and try again tomorrow.

This may seem obvious for some people, but these are something I have had to learn. Nobody is perfect and nobody can be perfect 100% of the time. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE. You must take what the world gives you and roll with it.

This past month before the race has honestly been dreadful. Mentally and physically I have been ready, just extremely impatient playing the waiting game. I cannot believe Taylor, my mother, and I leave Friday to go to Florida for the race. I am extremely excited with all the hard work I have put in the past few months. Stayed tuned on my Facebook pages and all forms of social media for live updates.

 #CMN #FTK