toledoblade.com --

United Way of Greater Toledo's annual leadership recognition event presented by Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick was Sept. 3 during a Mud Hens game at Fifth Third Field. It was for donors of the Greater Toledo area - Lucas, Wood, and Ottawa counties - who give $1,000 or more.

As guests enjoyed baseball food and the game, campaign chairman Richard Hylant addressed the group, stressing the importance of giving. Regarding this year's goal of $17.9 million, he said they plan to contact organizations of all sizes and types, but added that just loose change from your purse and pockets alone can help.

Standing by his side was his wife, Clare. Their 21st wedding anniversary was that day. Special guest was sports writer Christine Brennan, who was among those who threw out the first pitch, in addition to Mother Anne Joseph Doyle of Little Sisters of the Poor, there with the sisters Sacred Heart Home for the Aged Day at the Mud Hens event.

THE UNITED Way in Ottawa County hosted "Gem Beach Rocks, Again" presented by Croghan Colonial Bank, FriendShip Food Stores, and Gem Beach Marina Aug. 15 at the marina in Port Clinton.

The unofficial campaign kick-off/fund-raiser drew a crowd of nearly 2,500. There was excitement about the raffle prizes, which included a golf cart valued at $9,544. Special guest was Miss America 1963, Jackie Mayer. All of the about $40,000 netted benefits United Way in Ottawa County.

Contact Barbara Hendel at: bhendel@theblade.com
or 419-724-6124.

Other area United Way Campaign kickoffs included Wood County Aug. 27 at the Sebo Athletic Center on Bowling Green State University campus and the Lucas County United Way campaign kickoff Sept. 2 at St. Luke's Hospital.