Kris “Chili Dog” Frick
By Shari Tatman-Scholte

Kris Frick was born on Christmas Eve, 1961. Tragically, he died on April 9, 2006 as the result of a sand rail accident in the Glamis dunes.

When Kris was injured in the dunes, it took more than an hour to get medical help to him. That help came too late and he died before they reached the hospital. When Kris died, his family and friends learned the hard way about the limited availability of effective and timely Emergency Medical Services out in the dunes.

Since Kris’ death, his family and friends – who nicknamed him “Chili Dog” – have decided to do something to correct the situation. To that end, they have formed the Kris “Chili Dog” Frick Public Benefit Corporation, a non-profit organization who mission is: “To increase dune rider safety awareness and to conduct fundraising to enhance the medical services in Glamis Dunes, California.”

The KCDF Non-Profit Corporation has elected to pursue these goals in four different areas:

1. Extend the hours of on-call EMS personnel and ambulances at the dunes;
2. Provide a climate-controlled triage facility with 4 beds and restroom facilities for the EMS personnel to use while on-call at the dunes; (Currently, they have only their ambulance to sit in for the entire shift.)
3. Enhance “on the dunes” emergency response through the support of existing emergency response vehicles and providing additional vehicles for the EMS personnel; and provide driver training to EMS personnel for dune rescues.
4. Provide free information and handouts to the users of the dunes, identifying “Ride-Safe” sand sport activities along with what and where to go if an emergency arises.

The KCDF Corporation holds two fundraisers each year and accepts tax-deductible contributions throughout the year. In June, they present “Dog’s Night Out,” a casino night with cocktails and dinner, ending in a silent auction. In early October, the KCDF Corporation will hold a charity golf-tournament to raise additional funds. The corporation also generates funds through the sale of licensed Kris “Chili Dog” Frick sand sport clothing and accessories. The net proceeds of all fundraising activities will go to the establishment and continuing maintenance of these critical services.

It is clear from listening to Kris’ family and friends that he was someone who lived life with passion. He was a fine father, husband, friend, and sand sport activist who touched many lives in a very personal way. He saw Glamis as a place for laughing and having fun together, for campfires and stories, for priceless memories, and for great dune rides. His family and friends hope to protect others from the loss they have experienced and, just as importantly, to honor the life of one who meant so much to them.

There are many ways to support the KCDF Public Benefit Corporation. Call (714) 784-7184, write 3940 E. Miraloma Ave. Anaheim, California 92806 or visit www.KrisFrick.com for more information.