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Community Corner

Two Women, Two Hearts Touched By Juliana Ramos

Tracey Spreck and Michelina Crockett learned Juliana Ramos' story with the rest of the world, as Chris Medina spoke of their love on 'American Idol.' Now, the two women are reaching out to help out.

After residents watched the love story between Chris Medina and Juliana Ramos unfold on American Idol and televisions worldwide, some Within the next two months, six benefits are planned in Juli's honor.

Once strangers to the Ramos family, Tracy Spreck and Michelina Crockett are both extending a hand to Juliana on April 8 and 9.

Spreck, of Chicago, said she was in the midst of planning a benefit concert with a friend when she heard Ramos’ story on American Idol.

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“I was supposed to do a benefit for PAWS, but I was watching Idol and heard her story, and it really touched me,” singer Tracy Spreck said. “A week into figuring out the fundraiser I decided to go their [the Ramos family] route instead of PAWS.”

Spreck is co-hosting a joint fundraiser for Ramos and Peace Day 2011 at Club 162, 3551 N. Sheffield in Chicago on Friday, April 8 from 8 to 11 p.m.

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After deciding she would gear the fundraiser to Ramos, Spreck contacted the family and has worked with Juliana’s step-father, Don Barnes and family friend John Moore.

“We’ve been working together to get a good amount of people at the event,” Spreck said. “They were very supportive, which was great. The whole goal is to make as much money as possible.”

Spreck hopes at least 300 people will show up to the concert, where she will perform cover and original pop and rock songs.

Cost of admittance is $35 at the door, which includes premium drafts, call liquor and performances by Spreck and a DJ. Prizes will be raffled off.

Tracy Spreck’s Benefit Concert
  • Friday, April 8
  • 8–11 p.m.
  • Club 162, 3551 N. Sheffield, Chicago
  • $35 includes drinks, food and liquor


A day later, Oak Forest resident Michelina Crockett will hit the lanes to help out, at Bowling for Juliana Saturday, April 9 at Centennial Lanes in Tinley Park at 8 p.m.

Crockett echoed Spreck’s sentiments.

“When I saw Juliana’s story on American Idol I knew I just wanted to help. I did the MS Walk last year and did really well so I thought I could raise a good amount for Juliana, too,” Crockett said.

Crockett has been bowling since childhood, so the bowl-a-thon theme seemed like a natural fit.

“About a week after seeing the show the idea came to me at the bowling alley,” she said.

While planning the fundraiser, a non-profit organization called Violet’s Grace, offered to assist with the event. With their help, the event was upgraded to include food and a vendor fair, along with bowling.

“Violet’s Grace is a group of vendors that organize and set up a vendor table,” Crokett explained. “The vendors sell their items and donate a portion to the cause.”

Some of the goodies for sale will include flameless candles by Scentsy, goods from Tastefully Simple, knock-off designer bags from InPurseinators and baked goods from Cakin’ It & Beyond Bakery.

Bowlers pay $25 for dinner and four games of dutch doubles bowling. Non-bowlers can downgrade to $15 for dinner.

“If it were you in this position, you would want somebody to do something for you,” Crockett said.

Spreck said she hopes her event can help Juliana's family as much as possible.

“Chris Medina is the epitome of what a man should be,” said Spreck. “Juliana is a brave and amazing person and anything I can do to help the speedy recovery I would absolutely love to do.”

Bowling for Juliana
  • Saturday, April 9
  • 8 p.m.
  • Centennial Lanes, 16050 Centennial Circle, Tinley Park
  • $25 includes dinner and four games of bowling
  • For more information, visit www.bowlingforjuliana.info
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