Music and Make-A-Wish will be the stars of the show at a CD release party celebrating the “Holiday Wishes 2” benefit CD.

The event is set for 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at The Blarney Event Center, 601 Monroe St.

Many of the local musicians and media personalities featured on the two-disc, 44-track CD will perform. There will also be hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

Tickets are $5 for adults. Children 12 and younger are free.

“We hope people will join us to meet the musicians, mingle with the Make-A-Wish families and organizers, and just have a great Christmas party,” said Michael S. Miller, Toledo Free Press editor in chief and the CD’s executive producer. “Last year, we saw Chrys Peterson sing live with Hepcat Revival and Ramona Collins singing Christmas songs with Voodoo Libido. We’re expecting even more jam sessions and surprises this year.”

Music will start around 6:30 p.m., said Greg Tye of Hepcat Revival, who is organizing the performers. Among other performers will be Chrys Peterson with Hepcat Revival, Kerry Patrick Clark, Kyle White, Krystal Monique, The Wanna Bees, The Sanderlings, Skoobie Snaks, Russ Franzen, Steven J. Athanas, Voodoo Libido and more.

“It’s going to be a great selection of talent and we’re trying to mix it in as best we can to make the magic happen that night,” Tye said. “There will probably be some sort of jam component for those artists who might not be able to have their whole group there. They’re all very talented people.”

The two-CD set will be available for $15. CDs are also available at area Panera Bread locations, select Levis Commons stores and as digital downloads.

All parts of the project, from the recording to the mixing to the cover art, were done locally. Because the CD was sponsored by GM Powertrain Toledo, UAW Local 14, WNWO, 101.5 The River, A&D Glass & Mirror, Levis Commons and Panera Bread, proceeds go directly to Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana to benefit children in the 21-county Northwest Ohio region.

Last year’s inaugural “Holiday Wishes” CD sold out quickly, raising more than $25,000 for Make-A-Wish.

Make-A-Wish, which grants wishes for children with medically life-threatening conditions, does not receive federal, state or local government funding. Wishes are paid for by donations and donations in kind, including gifted airline miles. The average cost of a wish is $8,000.

“We want to grant the heartfelt wish of every child,” said Emily Denholm, marketing communications coordinator for Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. “Every wish is different. We really try to focus on the uniqueness of every wish.”

Tye said he hopes area residents come out to support Make-A-Wish and hear some great local music.

“I hope people walk away with an appreciation for how talented the musicians and performers are here in town and how passionate they are about supporting a good cause,” Tye said. “People will be exposed to some of the premier acts in town. It’s an opportunity to hear someone they may never have heard before. It may be a real ear-opening experience.”

Tags: Chrys Peterson, Hepcat Revival, Holiday Wishes 2, Kerry Patrick Clark, Krystal-Monique, Kyle White, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Russ Franzen, Skoobie Snaks, Steven J. Athanas, The Sanderlings, The Wanna Bees, Voodoo Libido

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 29th, 2012 at 2:24 pm and is filed under Arts and Life, Music.
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Pat Dailey’s “River of Stars” is not a Christmas song, yet it lends its title to this year’s collection of local holiday music benefiting Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The “star” connection is obvious. Make-A-Wish uses a bright blue star as its logo. Toledo Free Press uses a star in its masthead (a tribute to the owner’s connections to Texas). With two CDs containing 44 tracks, the river of local music stars is well represented. And the star is a shining symbol for the wish kids and families that benefit from the organization’s great work.

The song’s connection to Christmas is not as obvious.

This is the second year for the “Holiday Wishes” project and the second year Dailey and his manager Tom Brady have generously contributed a track. Last year’s Dailey song, “Here Comes The Cold,” was a natural fit. Another of his few winter-themed tracks, “Here In The North,” is one I hope to include next year. When I heard “River of Stars,” from Dailey’s “Squeaky Clean” collection, it immediately struck me as a perfect choice to set the tone for this year’s collection.

It begins with a light, sparkling twinkle of sounds that segue into gentle guitar. The first words Dailey sings may not have been written to evoke Christmas, but they certainly serve as a grand place to begin this year’s musical journey through the holidays: “I remember a night, so long ago/under a river of stars,” Dailey sings, with all the confidence of a master storyteller. And while Dailey may have envisioned Put-in-Bay harbor when he wrote the lyrics, they could just as easily describe a special night in the Bethlehem sky.

The song seems to be about an earthly relationship, but it culminates in imagery that clearly paints a picture of faith: “And so I row, row, row my boat once more/Until I find you waiting on a distant shore/With outstretched arms and upturned hands/You lead me into the harbor and back to the sand.”

It is a spiritual image of hope and comfort that captures the feeling of Christmas without needing a single direct word.

Musical treasures

There are many surprises and musical treasures on this year’s CDs. Jon Hendricks contributes an original song, “The Gift,” that sounds as if it could be found on a Frank Sinatra holiday CD. Listening to the track for the first time with Dave Mariasy at Audio Matrix Recording Studio was transporting. Music is mostly listened to through tiny earbuds, computer speakers or car stereos. To listen to Hendricks and a single piano through Mariasy’s high-tech studio speakers was akin to hearing music for the first time. It was a revelation. Hendricks’ voice simultaneously weaves tensile strength with an aching fragility.

A new tradition

For Christmas 2011, Toledo Free Press produced “Holiday Wishes,” a CD of holiday songs performed by Northwest Ohio musicians. The CD was a 25-track compilation and raised more than $25,000 for Make-A-Wish. It was underwritten by Toledo Transmission and UAW Local 14, so every dollar raised, through sales at Panera Bread locations, went directly to Make-A-Wish.

Although Toledo Free Press had produced two previous CDs, one collecting historical recordings and one from a Toledo songwriting contest, neither approached the scale or complexity of “Holiday Wishes.”

The 2011 CD included contributions from such Northwest Ohio stalwarts as Dailey, Jamie Farr, Mannheim Steamroller, Sheri LaFontaine, Candice Coleman, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Crystal Bowersox and Alyson Stoner. It also featured new recordings from Kerry Patrick Clark, Jeff Stewart, Kyle White, Ramona Collins, TAPESTRY, Chrys Peterson and Hepcat Revival, Voodoo Libido, Mighty Wyte and Jameil Aossey, among several others.

With tremendous media support from FOX Toledo, WPOS, 101.5 The River and many of our media friends, the CD sold out and even before 2012 started, we were thinking about a second volume.

Rather than start in late July, as we did in 2011, the 2012 compilation process started in January. Lexi Staples gave us a copy of a track her father, the late radio personality Dennis Staples, recorded of Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” That required tracking down permission from Random House Publishing, Warner Bros. Studios and the estate of Dr. Seuss. With all those rights now granted, it is a great honor to include that track on this year’s CD.

Another late performer is remembered as the Johnny Knorr Orchestra, led by Johnny’s son, Jerry, plays “Auld Lang Syne” for the 2012 CD. Johnny died in August 2011.

LaFontaine has allowed us to include “Toledo, My Hometown” on this year’s collection. It is a contribution that raises the bar for all the participating artists. “Toledo My Hometown” is a seasonal staple on The River, and it is an honor to have it on this year’s CD. The tune has added poignancy as we wish LaFontaine well in her new city of Nashville, Tenn.

There are several artists returning from last year. Stewart and White perform a revelatory version of John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War is Over).” The great Chip Davis allowed us to use Mannheim Steamroller’s “Fum Fum Fum.” Coleman did double duty, singing “Santa Baby” with Chris Brown’s band and “Merry Christmas Baby” with Buck69. Peterson and our friends in Hepcat Revival cover Harry Connick Jr.’s “Pray On Christmas.” Voodoo Libido, Skoobie Snaks and The Wanna Bees all contribute rocking tracks. The Polka Floyd Show took “Run Like Hell” from Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” and created a mashup that has already attracted regional attention.

VH1 favorite Tatiana Owens wrote and recorded a stunning new song, “Winter Holidays,” that could be played alongside any modern classic.

Local media veterans Jerry Anderson, Fred LeFebvre, Mary Beth Zolik and Rick Woodell recorded dynamic readings on par with Farr’s interpretation of “A Visit From St. Nicholas” from last year. We wish Zolik a speedy recovery as she undergoes treatment for cancer.

This year’s CD will include a number of exciting new artists, from young country singers such as Connor Rose to emerging rockers like The Sanderlings.

Not that every wish comes true; a few notable Toledo entertainers did not bother to respond to requests, even with a “no.” The Danny Thomas estate declined permission for a track, and Sony Legacy would not provide gratis rights to a Teresa Brewer track we were hoping to include.

But even with those very few disappointments, we still had so many quality submissions we had to start saving them for 2013. Great tracks by Arctic Clam, Krystal Monique, Mitch Kahl, Tim Ellis, Andrew Z’s Morning Crew and a few others are waiting in the wings.

The MVPs

The best news for the project was the return of three people who are behind the scenes, but integral to the process; indeed, without them it would not have happened last year and would not happen this year. Christopher Stoll, engineer at Audioflare Productions at Zeta Recording Studios, donated studio time and his finely attuned ears to the project. He earned MVP status this year, recording tracks ranging from Irish folk to German choirs. Matt Feher engineered the CDs, ensuring the discs are produced to the highest standards. Larry Meyer navigates the legal and publishing issues to make sure every “T” is crossed and every “I” is dotted.

Special thank-yous this year go to GM Powertrain Toledo, UAW Local 14, WNWO, 101.5 The River, A&D Glass & Mirror, Levis Commons and Panera Bread. All proceeds will go directly to Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana to benefit children in the 21-county Northwest Ohio region.

Make-A-Wish development officer Ellie McManus is a dream to work with and is a constant inspiration and reminder of Make-A-Wish’s mission. Toledo Free Press Sales Manager BJ Rahn has also been an invaluable help.

I am personally grateful to have strengthened some friendships and made new ones. I may never have met McManus, Clark or E.J. Wells without this project, and my life would be a bit dimmer without their creativity.

Summertime project

The project has also inspired an offshoot. For summer 2013, Toledo Free Press will produce a CD of upbeat summer party songs for the American Red Cross of Northwest Ohio to use as a vehicle for summer safety information. If you are a local musician interested in getting your Beach Boys vibe on disc, contact me before we get too far into January.

Thank you again to every musician and person who donated their time and talent to this project. If you would like to see the recipients of your labor, join us at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at The Blarney Event Center for our second annual “Holiday Wishes” benefit concert. There will be food, friends and a lot of smiling faces at the public event.

In the meantime, I am going to start working on convincing Ramona Collins to record “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” for the 2013 collection …

Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Email him at mmiller@

toledofreepress.com.

Tags: 101.5 The River, A&D Glass & Mirror, Alyson Stoner, Audio Matrix Recording Studio, Audioflare Productions, Candice Coleman, Chip Davis, Christopher Stoll, Chrys Peterson, Crystal Bowersox, Danny Thomas, Dave Mariasy, Dennis Staples, Dr. Seuss, E.J. Wells, Ellie McManus, FOX Toledo, Fred LeFebvre, Hepcat Revival, Jameil Aossey, Jamie Farr, Jeff Stewart, Jerry Anderson, John Lennon, Jon Hendricks, Kerry Patrick Clark, Kyle White, Levis Commons, Lexi Staples, Lighting The Fuse, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Mannheim Steamroller, Mary Beth Zolik, Michael S. Miller, Mighty Wyte, Panera Bread, Pat Dailey, Pink Floyd, Polka Floyd Show, Ramona Collins, Rick Woodell, Sheri LaFontaine, Skoobie Snaks, Tapestry, Teresa Brewer, The Grinch, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, The Wanna Bees, Toledo Transmission, Tom Brady, UAW Local 14, Voodoo Libido, WPOS

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 21st, 2012 at 7:39 am and is filed under Featured, Lighting The Fuse, Opinion.
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“I’m Jerry Anderson.”

“And I’m Lee Conklin. Welcome to WTOLWTVGWUPWNWO’s coverage of the 2015 Glass City Hunger Games!”

Anderson: “Indeed, Lee, and this is the third annual contest, which was initiated in 2012 by Toledo Free Press Editor in Chief Michael Miller, just before his tragic death in that incident at the Tim Hortons drive-thru.”

Conklin: “That was a glaze-covered tragedy, but his legacy lives on in this adaptation of the Hunger Games, in which Toledo’s leaders face off in a battle to the death, all for our entertainment.”

Anderson: “Now, we should stress that the competitors are actually using avatars, so there will be no true harm or injury to the actual people involved.”

Conklin: “That’s right, Jerry. To remind viewers of our premise, we have 24 participants from districts in Northwest Ohio. They will compete in an atmosphere-controlled dome with weapons supplied by sponsors,

in a battle to the death. The sole winner in this live, televised tournament will receive a Tony Packo’s gift basket, stock in First Solar, an autographed Crystal Bowersox CD and absolute ruling power over the enslaved citizens of our region until the 2016 Glass City Hunger Games.”

Anderson: “Minor problems in the dome today as the solar panels that power the lighting are flickering, but everything seems to be working now. We’ve already seen the parade and interviewed our combatants, so we’re just seconds away from the battle. Let’s go down to the field and hear from Chrys Peterson and Diane Larson, who were genetically fused into one anchor after our recent media merger.”

Conklin: “Great story of corporate synergy there, Jerry, especially when you remember that they used elements of Shaun Hegarty to give Chrys and Diane that ginger glow.”

Chrys/Diane: “We’re here before the big battle begins, with Councilman Tom Waniewski and 2014 Hunger Games champion, State Rep. Michael Ashford. Michael, how do you rate the competition this year?”

Ashford: “I respect the competition, especially Vice President Joe the Plumber, who knows how to use so many of these tools of destruction. I am hoping he exits early but he’s been underestimated before.”

Chrys/Diane: “Tom, there was a great deal of criticism of the violence in last year’s games, and you were at the heart of that when you decapitated former mayor Carty Finkbeiner with that Imagination Station bookmark.”

Waniewski: “As you know, Chrys/Diane, I am opposed to this travesty of an event, but I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty to win it for the people of this city.”

(Cannon booms)

Anderson: “And this just in, before the games even begin we have an early exit, as Councilman Phil Copeland has been disqualified for not showing up to compete.”

Conklin: “Not really a surprise, Jerry, but there may be more news as Councilman George Sarantou just stole Copeland’s supply of nightlock berries to make baklava. If he eats those berries, he’ll be out before the games begin!”

Anderson: “Ah, but look, Lee, George is offering those nightlock baklava desserts to Lucas County Commissioners Carol Contrada and Pete Gerken. They may see it as a sign of alliance, but, oh, oh, there it is, both commissioners took a bite and are now writhing in agony on the ground, foaming at the mouth.”

Conklin: “Let’s get a close-up shot of that for the viewers at home.”

Anderson: “Three contestants gone and we haven’t heard the opening bell yet!”

Conklin: “Speaking of Bell, the mayor looks ready for combat in his Chinese brigandine, practicing his wushu moves. (Trumpets blare) And the 2015 Glass City Hunger games have officially begun!”

Anderson: “The 21 remaining combatants are racing toward the cornucopia, which contains weapons, water and food items … Oh! Councilman D. Michael Collins just impaled Lindsay Webb with the sharp edge of a metal ‘tornado shelter’ sign!”

Conklin: “Yes, Jerry, it looks like Webb’s avatar is going to bleed to death on the field, which is ironic when you think about the depleted blood supply in Northwest Ohio as the Red Cross union strike enters its fourth year.”

Anderson: “On the other side of the field, Councilman Joe McNamara and Sen. Edna Brown are going at it, punching and kicking and throwing down in a ballot box rematch!”

Conklin: “It’s the kind of bloody battle that makes these games draw the big ratings, Jerry, and look at that! Brown just knocked McNamara to the ground, but he is still taking swings and trying to get the best of her.”

Anderson: “He’s a scrapper, no question. Brown is moving in for the kill, but she better watch out, because sneaking up behind her is Rep. Marcy Kaptur.”

Conklin: “Oh! Kaptur was just about to plant a knitting needle in Edna Brown’s back when Edna ducked, and McNamara ninja-tossed 200 American flag pins right toward Kaptur’s avatar’s jugular!”

Anderson: “Amazing, Lee, but as Kaptur hit the ground, a wig and mask fell off to reveal former County Commissioner Ben Konop! Sneaky way to get into these games!”

Conklin: “And look, more than 50 of McNamara’s ninja pins have flown across the field, mowing down politicians like a tornado cutting through a trailer park! Down goes Teresa Fedor! Tyrone Riley falls! Down goes Steve Steel! Sherrod Brown is out!”

Anderson: “A stunning development! Mike Craig is down! Bob Latta falls! Paula Hicks-Hudson is down! Waniewski staggers near Sarantou, but as they head for shelter for weapons — it looks like Sarantou was reaching for a rhino horn — Rob Ludeman takes them both out with a Danberry Realty sign! It’s a GOP meltdown! What a mess — it’s too bad avatars don’t qualify for domestic partner benefits and health care.”

Conklin: “And the Gamekeeper has released a wild card! There’s a lanky towheaded Tracker Jacker wildly dancing and brandishing a blade, but no one seems to be paying attention to him. His blade just doesn’t seem to be intimidating anyone. Oh — the Tracker Jacker just fell and impaled himself.”

Anderson: “Lee, I see an alliance of Adam Martinez, Tina Skeldon Wozniak, Rob Portman and Anita Lopez trying to make a break for the woods, but Ashford was waiting in a tree with a crossbow and he’s picking them off one by one!”

Conklin: “Let’s go to Chrys/Diane, reporting from the field.”

Chrys/Diane: “It’s a bloodbath down here, as a camouflaged Clerk of Courts Bernie Quilter just rose out of the woods and started racing through the field, cracking heads with his bare hands! He took Ashford’s crossbow and pushed him out of the tree! Now he’s shooting arrows like a demented Cupid! McNamara is out! Edna Brown is out! He’s taken out all the survivors! Bernie Quilter may be our winner!”

Conklin: “But wait, we only count 22 avatar bodies on the field. Someone is missing … Look! As Quilter steps around the bodies, Mike Bell rides into the arena on a motorcycle and runs Quilter through with chopsticks! It looks like Bell will win the 2015 Glass City Hunger Games!”

(Solar panel lights flicker and go out, plunging the arena into darkness)

Conklin: “We’ll have to wait for the lights to come back on to interview the 2015 champion.”

(Lights flicker and turn on)

Anderson: “That’s better! Now we can talk to Bell about his stunning victory! But wait! D. Michael Collins has pulled himself from the carnage and is challenging Bell!”

Conklin: “It’s a life-and-death battle for a Tony Packo’s gift basket, stock in First Solar, an autographed Crystal Bowersox CD and absolute control over us all! Collins is swinging and lunging with his tornado shelter sign, but Bell’s Changquan practice is paying off.”

Anderson: “Collins just won’t go away, he’s making his Marine legacy proud, but Bell is brandishing a qiang. He must have ice water in his veins, because he is approaching Collins like Clint Eastwood in an old Western movie!”

Conklin: “Bell is just brushing aside Collins’ strikes! He’s taken the qiang and … oh!”

Bell (facing Collins): “Ask not for whom the Bell tolls, *****! I toll for thee.”

Anderson: “Oh my! Collins is down! Bell is the 2015 Hunger Games champion! Let’s cut to Chrys/Diane.”

Chrys/Diane: “Mike, congratulations! That was a great strategy, staying above the fray until the last minute!”

Bell: “Thanks, Chrys/Diane! I credit my Harley and the teachings of Wushu Master Liu Xiao Ling. As my first act, I’m going to free all the citizens of Northwest Ohio and restore respect and cooperation into our political process. Hey, you two don’t look comfortable sewn together like that. Want me to put you out of your misery?”

Chrys/Diane: “Would you, please?”

(Bell raises the qiang)

Chrys/Diane: “This is Chrys Petersen … and Diane Larson … signing off.”

Conklin: “Well, Jerry, it looks like the 2015 Glass City Hunger Games are going to bring long-awaited freedom to Northwest Ohio.”

Anderson: “At least for one year, Lee. At least for one year.”

(Solar panel lights flicker)

Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Email him at mmiller@toledofreepress.com.

Cover illustration by Don Lee.

Tags: Ben Konop, Bernie Quilter, Bob Latta, Carol Contrada, Chrys Peterson, Crystal Bowersox, D. Michael Collins, Diane Larson, Edna Brown, First Solar, George Sarantou, Hunger Games, Jerry Anderson, Joe McNamara, Joe the Plumber, Lee Conklin, Lighting The Fuse, Lindsay Webb, Marcy Kaptur, Michael Ashford, Michael S. Miller, Mike Bell, Paula Hicks-Hudson, Pete Gerken, Phil Copeland, Rob Ludeman, Shaun Hegarty, Sherrod Brown, Tim Hortons, Tom Waniewski, Tony Packo's

This entry was posted on Thursday, May 3rd, 2012 at 4:11 pm and is filed under Featured, Lighting The Fuse, Opinion, Uncategorized.
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Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) has a reputation as “bad guys” and “baby snatchers,” but nothing could be farther from the truth, said the agency’s executive director Dean Sparks.

“Many in the community look at us almost as quasi-law enforcement. They expect us to go out in our vans, take kids away and then tell parents what they need to do to get them back, and if they don’t do it quickly enough they will never get them back,” Sparks said. “I’ve heard people say we get money from the federal government for every child we bring into our care. Not true. We don’t get any rewards for removing kids. Our No. 1 priority is keeping kids safe and helping parents take better care of their children.”

LCCS does not actually have the authority to remove a child from a home; only a law enforcement officer, magistrate or judge can do that, Sparks said.

Removing a child is also LCCS’s last resort. Whenever possible, children remain with their families or a relative while steps are taken to improve conditions.

“Less than 10 percent of kids we come in contact with are going to get removed,” Sparks said.

In 2011, LCCS received 4,148 referrals of suspected child abuse involving 6,046 children and discovered 587 area children were abused or neglected. Forty-nine percent of the investigations were for physical abuse, 36 percent for neglect, 14 percent for sexual abuse and 1 percent for emotional abuse.

Thirty-two percent of children served stayed in their own homes, 31 percent lived with a relative, 32 percent were placed in foster care and 5 percent went to a group home or private institution.

When responding to an allegation of abuse or neglect, caseworkers immediately do a safety assessment to make sure the child or children are safe. The assessment includes checking the home environment, evaluating caretakers, making sure basic needs are being met, checking if utilities are turned on and medical and educational needs are being met. Caseworkers also look for signs of physical hazards, substance abuse, violence and sexual abuse.

If any concerns are found, a meeting between the agency and the family is called to discuss the issues and give the family an opportunity to offer solutions before recommendations are made.

Over the past several years, LCCS has been transitioning to a response method called “differential response,” meaning that except in cases of sexual or serious physical abuse, the agency no longer identifies a perpetrator and a victim. Instead, LCCS engages the family in a discussion of concerns and works with them to find a suitable solution.

“For more than 76 percent of cases, we’re going through a kinder and gentler way of engaging families,” Sparks said. “Rather than substantiate whether or not an incident occurred, we want to look at the whole family and how it’s functioning, identify where the problems and difficulties are and come up with a plan to solve them, empowering the family to make changes. We don’t want to just go in and say, ‘This is what you have to do,’ which is what we did for many years.”

The meetings, which are typically held at the LCCS offices in Downtown Toledo where security is present if needed, range from civil to heated, said caseworker Shannon Keefer.

Click to enlarge

“You’re talking about the possibility of children being removed from parents, so you can’t deny it’s tense for every person sitting at the table,” Keefer said. “It’s very intense. Feelings and emotions are sky high, but you have to keep that under wraps. The bottom line is this is a very traumatic situation for all involved, especially the children. We have to do our best to keep that meeting decent and civilized in trying to keep those lines of communication open and being honest with each other about what’s going on.”

Some parents know they are overwhelmed and are actually grateful for the help, Sparks said.

“We do occasionally get people turning tables over, threatening, storming out, kicking doors and breaking them. They are not happy with us,” Sparks said. “But you’d be surprised how many parents say, ‘Yeah, I can’t handle this right now. I need help.’”

Keefer said one mother hugged her in court after a judge ordered her children removed from her care.

“The mom hugged me afterward and said, ‘Thanks,’” Keefer said. “I didn’t know what to do at that point. It shocked me.”

Giving back

Another agency imitative, which Keefer has been working on since July, is developing community programs such as the Parent Partnership Program.

“We partner with parents who have previously been through our system and are today doing well and are successful in their lives. Some have gotten their children back into their care, some have not, but they want to come back and volunteer and give back to parents currently going through system,” Keefer said. “It’s very powerful. I’ve learned so much from the parent partners, opening my eyes to what they’ve been through and what that’s really like on their end. I know I’m going to continue to look to them for advice and guidance about what we’re doing with the program and where it can and should go.”

One of the parent volunteers is Tim. About five years ago, when his two young sons were removed from his ex-wife’s care because of unsafe conditions at her home, he assumed he would be given custody.

Instead, the Toledo man, whose last name is omitted to protect the identity of his children, was told his history of domestic violence against his ex-wife was a safety concern and the boys were sent to live with relatives.

“I was upset and angry because I had always thought of myself as a good dad,” Tim said. “I had already raised three older children [from a previous marriage] and I thought my children should be home with me.

“I never believed I was guilty of domestic violence because I never put my hands on my ex-wife and I never hurt my children. I thought, ‘They eat every day, they’re clothed, they have a roof over their heads, they’re OK.’ But until I started going through some of the agency programs they requested I go to, I never saw the mental abuse my children went through on a daily basis.

“I used to raise my voice and holler and scream a lot, or block the door when someone wanted to leave because I still had something to say, which not only caused my wife to be afraid, it caused my children to be afraid. I always thought I was doing the right thing because after everybody calmed down, I would ask my kids, ‘Hey, you love me?’ Well, what else were they going to say? Of course they’re going to tell me they loved me.

“Going through the batterers intervention program, I realized there was a whole lot more to domestic violence, that I didn’t have to physically attack someone to be guilty and that I did in fact need the program. No one wants to admit as a parent they need to make some changes in their child’s life, in their own life, but to me that was the first step of healing.”

Tim, who also went to counseling and enrolled in parenting classes, was eventually awarded full custody of his sons. Today, he is a parent volunteer, helping to facilitate the agency’s six-week Building a Better Future workshop for parents who have had children removed from their home.

“Knowing they are still going through services, it’s a reward to be able to pull the parents aside and say, ‘I’ve been there, done that and this will help you out,’” Tim said. “If I can stop one other family from going through the turmoil I’ve been through and help them navigate through the system, I’m happy. I tell them the quicker you successfully complete these services being asked of you, the quicker you’re going to have your prize back, which is your children back in your home with you.”

Even though it’s easier to blame others, part of the healing process is learning to take responsibility for your actions, Tim said.

“I was probably one of the biggest, hardest knuckleheads out there. I didn’t think I needed these programs. I think the biggest thing for me to conquer was admitting it was a problem and claiming ownership of it,” Tim said. “I’d like all parents to claim responsibility that something happened in their life to cause [LCCS] to come out and remove their children. They don’t just go through a directory and say, ‘OK, let’s go take their kids.’ Whether it’s their fault or someone else’s fault, something happened to cause the agency to go out there in the first place.”

The agency’s hotline for reporting child abuse receives about 750 calls per month and 300 to 400 are investigated. Fifty-six percent of referrals come from “mandated reporters” within the community with the remainder coming from private or anonymous sources.

Tim said his past is always there as a reminder, but he prefers to focus on the future.

“My drive and the reason I do these programs is to remind myself of where I was at and where I want to be at,” Tim said. “I try not to dwell on the past things. They are always there as a reminder, but I just try to look toward the future and where my life’s going with my children now. They’re both doing great now and I’m doing great now. I can tell you today the agency will never have a reason to come out to my house or to tell me as a father I can’t have my children at home.”

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Upcoming events include:.

• “Wear Blue to Work Day” on April 11. “Each individual person makes the decision that morning to put on a blue shirt, but think about all the blue shirts together,” said LCCS Public Information Officer Julie Malkin. “If he wears a blue shirt, and she wears a blue shirt and I wear a blue shirt, we’re unified as a community against child abuse.” Area residents are also encouraged photograph a group of co-workers wearing the color and post it via social media.
• LCCS and other agencies will present information at the “We Care About Our Kids: Community Forum on Child Sexual Abuse” at 6:30 p.m. April 18 at the University of Toledo Scott Park Campus. Admission is free.
• A ceremony honoring local children who died as a result of street violence, abuse or neglect is 11:30 a.m. April 25 at the LCCS offices, 705 Adams St., Toledo. Since April 2011, no children have died in Lucas County from abuse or neglect, but Timothy Blair, 14, Deadrick Rocker, 17, and Montelle Taylor, 17, died as a result of violence. Lucas County has not had an abuse- or neglect-related death for about two years, Sparks said. Nationally, about five children a day and 1,700 per year die from abuse and neglect.

“Child abuse is preventable,” Sparks said. “If we work together we can stop it.”

To report a case of suspected abuse, call (419) 213-CARE. For more information, visit www.co.lucas.oh.us/LCCS.

Tags: 101.5 The River, 107.3 The Juice, 107.7 The Wolf, AFSCME Council 8, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Baldemar Velasquez, Barb Dianda-Martin, Barbara Sears, Ben Green, Bill Lichtenwald, Brad Rieger, Brandi Browne, Carol Contrada, Casey Fischer, Chrys Peterson, Cindy Pisano, Clara Petty, Clare Armbruster, Congregation B'Nai Israel, Craig Snyder, Dan Anderson, Dave Dauer, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Denise Cubbon, Doni Miller, Edna Brown, Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center, Farm Labor Organizing Committee, FOX Toledo, Friends of Lucas County Children Services, Gary Shores, George Tucker, Greater Northwest Ohio AFL-CIO, Greg Smith, Harvey Steele, Jack and Jill of America, Jacky Brown, James Telb, Jamie Pierman, Jane Moore, Jerry Anderson, John Dinon, K100, Kathryn Hott, Katrina Barry, Lauren Merrell, LeRoy WIlliams, Lucas County Children Services, Lucas County CHildrens Services, Lucas County Commissioners, Lucas County Juvenile Court, Lucas County Sheriff, Margaret Danziger, Mary Beth Zolik, Mary Caldwell-Simmons, Matt Szollosi, Maumee City Schools, Mayor Mike Bell, Mercy Children's Hospital, Michael Henrich, Mike Ashford, Mix 95.7, Monroe Street Neighborhood Center, Moshe Saks, Muddy, Natalie Jackson, Neighborhood Health Association, New Covenant Baptist Church, OACWC, Ohio House of Representatives, Ohio Senate, Owens Community College, Patrick Hickey, Rick Woodell, Robin Reese, Robin Stone, Sandi Nugent, Search-Lite Community Church, Shaun Hegarty, Springfield Local Schools, Student Social Work Organization, Super Why!, Sylvania Schools, Teamsters Local 20, The Andersons, Tisha Lee, Toledo Area Humane Society, Toledo Chapter of Charms, Toledo Fire and Rescue, Toledo Free Press, Toledo Mud Hens, Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, United Way of Greater Toledo, University of Toledo, Washington Local Schools, WGTE, Whyatt Beanstalk, WNWO, WTOL News, Yvonne Gayle

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 5th, 2012 at 4:04 pm and is filed under Community, Featured.
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Toledoans can walk the red carpet the same night as Meryl Streep and George Clooney at OSCAR Night 2012, benefiting the Greater Toledo Area Chapter of the American Red Cross.

“OSCAR Night is one of our biggest events of the year. It’s an opportunity for people to get together and enjoy grazing and entertainment,” said Communications Officer Jason Copsey.

The Feb. 26 event at Owens Community College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts gives guests a chance to watch the 84th Academy Awards on a movie screen while sampling appetizers from 20 area eateries, including Cake in a Cup, The Beirut, Java Sensations and Super Suppers.

When guests enter the black-tie-preferred event, they walk a red carpet complete with an interview by WTOL’s Chrys Peterson and Jerry Anderson — and a crowd of cheering volunteers to fawn over them celebrity-style.

“It’s a way to come out and walk on the red carpet while you’re watching celebrities walk on the red carpet,” Copsey said.

Owens goes all-out transforming itself into a version of Kodak Theatre. “The Center for Fine and Performing Arts gets decked out in Oscar decorations,” Copsey said.

Guests have a chance to win jewelry from Harold Jaffe Jewelers, a $400-valued Martha Stewart gift basket and a football signed by Urban Meyer at a raffle and auction. Hepcat Revival and Johnny Rocker and the Hitmen will also entertain guests.

OSCAR Night has long been a staple on Toledo’s social calendar. The event went through “a few different versions” before settling on an Academy Awards theme about nine years ago, Copsey said.

“OSCAR Night has turned into an event people look forward to all year,” he said. Last year about 500 attended OSCAR Night, which typically raises between $75,000 and $80,000.

Event sponsors include Mercy, Columbia Gas of Ohio and KeyBank.

The Toledo Chapter of the American Red Cross educates the public on first aid and CPR and responds to natural disasters, among other activities.

OSCAR Night 2012 is 6-10 p.m. Feb. 26. Tickets are $100, $50 of which is tax deductible. To purchase tickets, call (419) 329-2619.

Tags: Chrys Peterson, Hepcat Revival, Jerry Anderson, Johnny Rocker and the Hitmen, Oscar Night, Red Cross

This entry was posted on Thursday, February 9th, 2012 at 6:15 pm and is filed under Arts and Life, Fundraiser, Uncategorized.
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Chrys Peterson said there was no question which holiday tune she would contribute to “Holiday Wishes.”

Since childhood, the WTOL Channel 11 news anchor has loved Elvis Presley’s “Santa, Bring My Baby Back To Me.”

“I’m not sure if this is my favorite Christmas song of all time, but it certainly ranks right up there,” Peterson said. “When I was a little girl, my mom had three or four Christmas records she would put on the turntable and they would slip down one at a time and play, and one of them was Elvis’ Christmas album. This was my favorite song. I would stand up and try to do the Elvis scowl with my lip. It’s just peppy and kind of uplifting and I’ve just always loved it. It was the first song that came to my mind.”

Chrys Peterson

Peterson enlisted the help of her friend Greg Tye, lead singer of Toledo group Hepcat Revival.

“He just jumped in with no hesitation and worked with me on this,” Peterson said. “They are the most talented musicians — really fun guys and they have hearts of gold. It was a blast working with them. I don’t think they knew the song, but now they all love it too.”

Trumpet player Vince Krolak said the group took the original Elvis tune and “Hep-ified” it.

“The original didn’t have horn parts so we added tenor sax and trumpet sounds and also opened it for instrumental solos between verses to change it up and give it a little more blues flavor. We also changed the key to suit her vocal range,” Krolak said. “With the way Chrys did her vocals you can still hear the Elvis, so it just came together really nicely.”

Peterson said she didn’t feel pressure to live up to The King.

“It’s kind of easy when you’re a woman doing a cover of a man’s song; no one expects you to sound like him. The whole gender thing put a different twist on it,” Peterson said. “Hepcat changed the score just a little bit, but we really wanted to stay true to that rockabilly Elvis style and just put our own talents into it, so that’s what we did.”

Peterson sang in high school choruses and worked her way through college singing with an ’80s rock band, but said she doesn’t sing much beyond the shower now.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to come out of the shower,” Peterson said, laughing. “There is so much musical talent in the Toledo area; I don’t know what the heck I’m doing on this CD! We are so blessed to have all this talent surrounding us in Toledo and this is the perfect showcase for the talent that is here and the generosity of those people to donate their time and talents to help the kids in Northwest Ohio.”

Toledo Free Press Editor in Chief Michael S. Miller, who compiled the CD, said he thought of Peterson from the project’s inception.

“I have heard Chrys sing at the Red Cross Oscar gala a number of times, and thought it would be a treat for people to hear what a talented vocalist she is,” Miller said.

As a former board member for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Northwest Ohio Chapter, Peterson has had the chance to see the wish-granting process up close.

“It’s such an amazing organization,” Peterson said. “I get choked up talking about it. I really believe in the power of hope when you’re healing from an illness like that, and I think what Make-A-Wish does for those kids is offer hope. I truly believe that might be the difference that helps some of these kids turn the corner with their illnesses or move through whatever they are dealing with. So to know the money raised from these CDs alone will grant several wishes for kids in Northwest Ohio, that’s really special.”

Tags: Chrys Peterson, Elvis Presley, Hepcat Revival, Holiday Wishes, Make-A-Wish

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011 at 4:00 am and is filed under Community, Make-A-Wish.
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After 25 years, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” called it a wrap on May 25. It was a glorious 3-show farewell celebration fit for a Queen, or as we call her… Oprah. The remarkable farewell shows featured the biggest names alive from Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Will Smith and even highlighted the first public appearance of Maria Shriver following her very scandalous split from husband Arnold Schwarzenegger, The Finals Shows were taped in front of a massive audience of 13,000 screaming fans at the United Center, and I believe Oprah herself heard the screams of joy and sadness from two different newsrooms in Toledo.

“The Oprah Winfrey Show” has long been the perfect lead-in for WTOL Channel 11’s newscast and the longstanding nemesis of WTVG 13 ABC.

There is no better ratings race in Toledo than WTVG and WTOL. Both feature iconic anchors. WTOL has Jerry Anderson and Chrys Peterson, WTVG has Lee Conklin and Diane Larson. Both have outstanding weather personalities, and although WTVG has more with Stan Stachak and ‘Blizzard’ Bill Spencer, do not discount the lai back delivery of Robert Shiels. The sports edge would go to longtime anchor Dan Cummins, whose involvement in the community makes him an irreplaceable asset to the station. WTVG took a big loss with Rob Powers’ exit to NYC’s WABC. Dave Holmes is trying but those are some huge shoes.

So when Oprah announced that May 25 was her last day, the collective moans and screams could be heard across Toledo. TV show’s ratings are only as good as the show that is one before you, WTOL had Oprah and WTVG has “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Oprah’s ratings had been dwindling, but bounced back for her final season. Oprah beat Ellen in Toledo by a full share this last year.

The 4 o’clock hour is the most crucial hour of programming for local TV stations. This time slot allows the stations to promote what is coming up and why Toledoans should stay tuned to watch their 5 O’Clock news. This is called a “lead-in”.

The back and forth ratings battle between WTOL and WTVG ended in a tie with a 6 share in July for the 5 o’clock news hour… A TIE!!! WTVG and WTOL would like to claim victories in certain demographics but in the hopes of keeping this piece simple, I will not even attempt to break those down. The simple explanation is that the same number of households in Toledo watched WTVG and WTOL.

The Million Dollar Question in Toledo television is … how do you replace one of the most beloved personalities in TV history? The bigger markets decided to start their newscasts an hour earlier in hopes of competing, but Fox 36 proved that is an incredible task to undertake. Channel 11 went a different direction and this is where this story gets interesting. WTOL was recently purchased by Raycom Media, the former owners of WNBC 24. Raycom’s solution in replacing Oprah is America Now, a TV Show that Raycom owns. In case the last sentence confused you as it did myself, let me repeat it… Raycom replaced Oprah with a show… that Raycom produces…. not good!

“America Now” is hosted by Leeza Gibbons (Entertainment Tonight) and Bill Rancic of NBC’s Apprentice but who may be better known as the husband of Giuliana Rancic from E. The show’s format features news and infomercial like segments. America Now is beyond the worst case scenario for the fine newspeople at WTOL, and in my opinion the worst of the 4 shows that air on local stations.

The November Sweeps will be crucial as it will be the first time since Oprah’s exit and America Now’s premiere that Toledo’s TV stations will see the ripple effect of the Queen’s exit. My fear is the loss of Oprah’s lead-in will greatly lower WTOL’s ratings which will lead to budget cuts, firings etc.

Toledo‘s 5 O’Clock ratings war has given us two exceptional newscasts to choose from as viewers. The competitive nature of the programs drive the other to be better and give Toledoans a choice. Raycom’s purchase of WTOL and cheap solution of replacing Oprah with America Now will have long lasting effects, not just for Channel 11 but 13 as well. If WTVG begins to dominate, WTOL will reduce staff and cost. The scarier thought is what WTVG will do… will they be satisfied with winning or will they want to win and save money? A dollar saved is a dollar earned, but will Toledoan’s pay the price?

My prediction and hope is WTOL will have a 4 O’Clock newscast starting in January of 2012. Let’s hope that Oprah’s exit does not mark the death of local TV news.

Jeremy Baumhower is a self-proclaimed media expert who writes and produces for morning radio shows across the country. Please follow him on twitter @jeremytheproduc.

Tags: 13abc, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bill Spencer, Chrys Peterson, Dan Cummings, Dave Holmes, Diane Larson, Ellen DeGeneres, Jeremy Baumhower, Jerry Anderson, Katie Holmes, Lee Conklin, Maria Shriver, Media Watch, Oprah Winfrey, Rob Powers, Stan Stachak, Tom Cruise, Will Smith, WTOL

This entry was posted on Friday, October 21st, 2011 at 12:00 am and is filed under Community, Media Watch.
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Since early August, I have been listening to holiday music. Not because my Microsoft Entourage calendar is ahead of itself; I have been working with scores of local artists to compile a CD to a benefit for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Jamie Farr, Alyson Stoner, Crystal Bowersox, Mannheim Steamroller, Pat Dailey and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra are a few of the contributors who have donated their talents to the CD, titled “Holiday Wishes: NW Ohio Artists Unite for Make-A-Wish.”

I have been thinking about producing a holiday CD of local artists for a couple of years, but had not seriously pursued it until late this summer, during a meeting with Eric Slough, executive director of Make-A-Wish’s Northwest Ohio Region. Slough mentioned his organization’s annual fundraiser, coffee mugs featuring art by a local Make-A-Wish child that are distributed in Panera Bread locations. As we were talking, the proverbial light bulb went off in my head and I pitched the notion of compiling a CD that would feature local artists; the art normally wrapped on a mug could be used for the front cover. Slough pitched the idea to Development Officer Ellie McManus and their board of directors; we met with Panera Bread; and in early September, we received a green light.

While I contacted artists and matched them with songs, Slough secured funding for the project from General Motors/UAW Local 14, ensuring there would be no costs charged to Make-A-Wish (and that 100 percent of the $9.99 retail price of the CD will go to Make-A-Wish).

My wife Shannon has long worked with Make-A-Wish, and I have seen firsthand the literal miracles the organization is capable of. Raising two blessedly healthy boys adds to my appreciation for the Make-A-Wish mission. That standard meant I would not compromise on the quality of the CD, and I set my sights on the stars.

Then, the first three artists I contacted turned me down. That initially shook my confidence and had me doubting I could make the CD a reality.

But immediately, Jeff Stewart, Kyle White, Kerry Patrick Clark and Ramona Collins all jumped in with great enthusiasm, and we’ve never looked back.

I have faced very few projects with such enthusiasm — and such ignorance. I had no idea just what I was asking of the musicians, producers and engineers, in terms of time and effort. There will be another time for a more thorough thank-you list, but it is important to note that without Christopher Stoll of Zeta Recording Studio, David Mariasy of Audio Matrix Recording Studio, producer Mighty Wyte and attorney Larry Meyer, who guided us through the licensing maze, this never would have become reality.

There will be two dozen tracks on the CD, ranging from a harp solo by Nancy Lendrim to a Stones-y blast through Chuck Berry’s “Run Run Rudolph” by Voodoo Libido. Dave Gierke of Toledo School for the Arts helped secure Tower Brass, the Toledo Jazz Orchestra and Crystal Bowersox. Many of our media friends — 13abc’s Lee Conklin, K100’s Harvey Steele, Clear Channel “Voice of the Rockets” Mark Beier and FOXToledo’s Laura Emerson & Shaun Hegarty — stepped up and contributed vocals to spoken word tracks. Chrys Peterson of WTOL 11 brought Graceland to Zeta Recording with Hepcat Revival and channeled Elvis on a blistering version of “Santa, Bring My Baby Back to Me.”

I will not give away all the surprises on the CD, but mixed with classics recorded by Tapestry, Sheri LaFontaine, Kate Jordan, Chris Brown and Candice Coleman, and a chorus from the Toledo Museum of Art are original, newly recorded works by Reedius Maximus, Clark, Jameil Aossey and Charles Lane, and Rugby.

I was humbled by the lengths the artists went to. The Toledo Symphony Orchestra recorded “Sleigh Ride” during a September concert in Findlay, and captured a playful, majestic performance that redefines the song. Farr went into Marc Graue Voice Over Studios in Burbank, Calif., and performed a lively “Visit from Saint Nicholas” that will be cherished by many generations of Toledoans. Dailey and Sylvania native Chip Davis, founder of Mannheim Steamroller, generously and speedily donated tracks to the cause. Jeff Stewart recorded a Johnny Cash-inspired version of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” then unselfishly opened the track to a singing chorus of local Make-A-Wish kids.

There will be a number of ways to purchase the CD. Regional Panera Bread stores will sell the album, starting around Thanksgiving. There will be a public kick-off concert at 6 p.m. Dec. 1 at The Blarney Bullpen; those CDs will be signed by some of the artists, and special packages donated by Alyson Stoner will be available. If your company is interested in buying bulk copies as a corporate gift, please contact Eric Slough at EricS@makeawishohio.org.

The Thanksgiving issue of Toledo Free Press will contain a complete guide to the CD, with behind-the-scenes stories and photos from several of the recording sessions.

Since early August, I have been listening to holiday and Christmas music. People are asking me if I am sick and tired of hearing these holiday songs.

The answer is an emphatic no. I love every one of these songs, what they represent, and the kids who will be helped by them. I’m already thinking about 2012. I can’t believe no one asked about “White Christmas” this year, and I know exactly who I am going to ask to record it for next year …

Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Email him at mmiller@toledofreepress.com.

Tags: Alyson Stoner, Audio Matrix Recording Studio, Blarney Bullpen, Candice Coleman, Charles Lane, Chip Davis, Chris Brown, Christopher Stoll, Chrys Peterson, Chuck Berry, Crystal Bowersox, David Gierke, David Mariasy, Eric Slough, General Motors, Harvey Steele, Jameil Aossey, Jamie Farr, Jeff Stewart, Johnny Cash, Kate Jordan, Kerry Patrick Clark, Kyle White, Larry Meyer, Laura Emerson, Lee Conklin, Lighting The Fuse, Make-A-Wish, Mannheim Steamroller, Marc Graue, Mark Beier, Michael S. Miller, Mighty Wyte, Nancy Lendrim, Panera Bread, Pat Dailey, Ramona Collins, Reedius Maximus, rugby, Shaun Hegarty, Sheri LaFontaine, Tapestry, the Toledo Jazz Orchestra, Toledo Museum of Art, Toledo School for the Arts, Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Tower Brass, UAW Local 14, Voodoo Libido, Zeta Recording

This entry was posted on Friday, October 21st, 2011 at 12:00 am and is filed under Lighting The Fuse, Opinion.
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For 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as honorary chair for the Northwest Ohio Komen Race for the Cure. People often ask me why I support Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The answer is simple: I race for the past, the present and especially for the future.

In years past, two of my relatives have been diagnosed with breast cancer. They’re both doing well now.

But this year, my resolve to find a cure is greater than ever because a few months ago I lost one of my dearest friends to breast cancer. Gretchen Skeldon was just 32 when she was diagnosed and 47 when she died in February.

Gretchen was a devoted mother, wife, sister and friend, a vice president at Libbey Glass and an inspiration to everyone she met. Because she was so young when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and because she battled it with such grace, I asked her many times to talk to other young women who were newly diagnosed. She always made the time to offer her support and share her experiences with them. She also volunteered countless hours to raise money and awareness for breast cancer through NW Ohio Komen for the Cure. She never shied away from an opportunity to help and truly believed a cure would be found in her lifetime.

I am heartbroken our efforts to find a cure didn’t come in time to save my friend. This year, I race for Gretchen.

But there are thousands of other women who are fighting breast cancer today. One of those women is Brandy Gilleland, a single mom of two in her early 30s. Brandy has graciously allowed us to chronicle her breast cancer battle on WTOL for nearly a year. She’s undergone a double mastectomy, two rounds of chemo and is getting ready to start radiation. She’s shown incredible courage fighting her battle in front of thousands of television viewers and she’s doing it with the hope that something she learns on her journey will help other women who watch her story.

This year, for the first time, Brandy will wear the pink cap and pink shirt designated for breast cancer survivors. This year, I race for Brandy.

I also race for the thousands of women and men who will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the future. A few years ago at the Race for the Cure, that part of the mission became crystal clear to me as I stood at the finish line, watching the first few runners come in. The streets were lined with spectators cheering on the runners as they made their last push toward the finish.

Suddenly, a young woman wearing the breast cancer survivor’s pink shirt and cap came into focus. She was running at a pretty steady pace, with a look of determination on her face. About two blocks from the finish line, a man pushed a little girl out into the street toward the woman. The determination softened into a smile as she took her 3-year-old daughter’s hand, and the two of them crossed the finish line together. Tears ran down my face as I realized that mom was participating in the Race hoping her daughter wouldn’t have to hear the same diagnosis she had. I race for that little girl … and for my own 10-year-old daughter Riley.

The NW Ohio Komen Race for the Cure gives all of us an opportunity to help save a life. Seventy-five percent of the money raised stays right here in our community to pay for breast cancer screening, treatment and education. The other 25 percent goes toward research to find a cure. The 17th annual NW Ohio Komen Race for the Cure is Sept. 26 in Downtown Toledo.

Take a minute to think about all the reasons you have to join us: the women from your past, present and future. I don’t want to see another little girl lose her mommy or another husband lose his wife.

Who will you race for?

Chrys Peterson is the weekday evening anchor on WTOL News 11 at 5 p.m.,

6 p.m. and 11 p.m. E-mail her at cpeterson@wtol.com.

Tags: Chrys Peterson, Komen Race for the Cure

This entry was posted on Thursday, September 16th, 2010 at 3:47 pm and is filed under Community, Komen Race for the Cure.
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