Mark Curtis Media

(Warwick, Rhode Island)

I have covered tornadoes in Wisconsin, hurricanes in Florida and earthquakes in California during my career. But the devastating scenes from the recent floods in Rhode Island and Massachusetts are among the most heartbreaking images I have ever seen.

Lots of people are trying to help. FEMA has set up a federal disaster aid office outside a shopping center in Warwick.

Today we followed the Cruz family of West Warwick as they went through the aid application process. We then toured their flood-damaged home, where almost everything was destroyed. One of the few things that survived was a piece of artwork that their five-year old daughter had made, with a note that said, "I Love You, Mommy!" It was a discovery that brought her parents to tears today.

“We’ll get through, slowly. We’ll get back right up where we was,” said Nicholas Cruz, the father of two girls, ages 12 and 5. His partner of many years--and the little girls' mother--Melanie Merritt said, “That’s the main thing. We’re trying to stay strong for the kids. We just got to try to stay focused, and we’ll just have to start over."

They are strong, resilient people. Please keep them--and all the flood victims and emergency workers--in your prayers!

You can watch my complete ABC 6 story that airs tonight at: http://www.abc6.com/news/89932352.html

(Editor's Note: This food review was written on a recent trip to California. Enjoy!)

(Walnut Creek, California)

Spring is here and summer is not far behind. And with the warmer weather, the smell of barbeque cannot be too far away.

I had the BEST barbeque recently at "Team Rib Factory" in Walnut Creek. I was home on a quick three-day visit from Rhode Island, with a schedule packed full and no time to cook. Still I wanted some home-cooked flavor.

I found it at "Team Rib Factory," which is owned by my friend and fellow foodie, Keith Burks. I took home two racks of the most tender, "fall-off-the-bone" baby back ribs I have ever tasted. I also got an order of Keith's famous pulled pork and some delicious potato salad and cole slaw. (Take a look at the pulled-pork sandwich and sides in the photo above).

The pulled pork just melts in your mouth! Try it with any one of the homemade BBQ sauces, ranging from mild to hot! His chicken and brisket are great, too!

I met Keith many years ago, when he was catering the San Francisco Boy Scout Council annual golf tournament, hosted by the Oakland Raiders. There is nothing like his BBQ during a round of golf in June. I believe I have played in that tournament seven times, and every year look forward to seeing Keith and his array of great BBQ and sides!

"Team Rib Factory" is now located in the walkway of the Broadway Plaza Mall in Walnut Creek at 55 Broadway Lane. Stop by for lunch or dinner, or grab a bunch of carryout and take it home for your family. Just park in the indoor garage near Macy's and surprise your family with a great carryout dinner! Call 925-933-7427.

"Team Rib Factory" also caters special events! Do you have an upcoming party, wedding, office function or charity event? Call Keith! You can also sign up for "Team Rib Factory" on Facebook! Bon Appetit!