Stay safe this Fourth of July with these safety tips

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By Samantha Pudelski, American Red Cross volunteer

July 3, 2019- With Fourth of July celebrations almost under way, the Northeast Ohio Region of the American Red Cross has some fireworks safety tips to make sure everyone stays safe this holiday.

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“Fourth of July is a great holiday for families to enjoy the summer weather but we want everyone to stay safe, especially when it comes to fireworks,” said Tim O’Toole, regional disaster officer for the Red Cross of Northeast Ohio. “These safety tips will ensure that everyone can have an enjoyable and safe Independence Day, including pets.”

Attend a Public Fireworks Show

The safest way to enjoy fireworks this Fourth of July is to attend a public fireworks show put on by professionals. Make sure to stay at least 500 feet away from the show and leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.

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If you or someone you know is setting off fireworks at home, follow these safety steps:

  • Never give fireworks to small children.
  • Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials, and make sure to light them a safe distance away.
  • Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
  • Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
  • Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
  • Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”
  • Always have an adult supervise any fireworks activities, even sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees — hot enough to melt some metals.
  • After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

Many communities in Northeast Ohio are hosting fireworks shows throughout the Fourth of July weekend. Click here for a full listing of shows in the area.

Pet Safety

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July 5th is the busiest day at local animal shelters due to animals being scared by fireworks and running away. Here are some tips to keep your furry friends safe this Independence Day:

  • Keep your pets inside on the lowest level of your home.
  • Turn on a television or radio to help cover some the loud noises that may be outside.
  • Before fireworks and other festivities begin, get your pet to be active, such as going on a long hike. A pet that is mentally and physically exhausted is less likely to react to fireworks and other loud noises.
  • Provide your pet a distraction, such as a delicious treat or toys, to keep them occupied.
  • Comfort them. Sitting close to your pet, petting them gently and offering quiet words of reassurance during scary events like fireworks can help to center them and might even reduce their fearfulness.
  • Make sure your pet has access to a favorite and comforting area, such as a bedroom.
  • Try an anxiety vest. Much like swaddling helps to calm infants, a snug garment that puts gentle pressure on your pet’s torso can reduce fireworks anxiety. Get your furry  friend used to wearing a pressure wrap before fireworks so that by the time the event arrives, they will be comfortable with the garment.
  • Just in case your pet does escape, make sure your pet’s identification is up to date and that you have a current photo ready.

Fireworks aren’t the only things that pose a home fire risk – this video can help you avoid home fires due to cooking accidents:

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Sizzling summer safety tips for traveling

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By Samantha Pudelski, American Red Cross volunteer

July 1, 2019- It’s finally starting to feel like summer here in Northeast Ohio; and with summer comes vacation plans. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, keep these few tips and resources in mind from the American Red Cross for a safe and fun summer.

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Prior to your trip:

  • Visit the U.S. Department of State website, State.Gov, for information on what you need to know when planning a trip abroad.
  • Going to a remote destination? Make sure you are up to speed on your first aid and CPR training. Find a class in Northeast Ohio to take before you go.
  • Are you going somewhere near the water? Make sure everyone knows how to swim and proper water safety practices. Register for a class near you.
  • Make sure you have the proper vaccinations for the area you are traveling to, especially if your trip is taking you internationally. Some countries require travelers to have certain vaccinations prior to entering their country, while other vaccines are recommended for your safety. Visit the CDC website for a full list and additional details.
  • Pack a first aid kit in your luggage to make sure you have basic supplies to treat cuts and burns and be prepared in case of emergency. You can get a first aid kit from the Red Cross here.
  • Make sure you bring all proper identification and medical cards that you may need, including personal ID, passport and insurance cards. Take a photo of them just in case one gets lost on your trip.

Aquatics Centennial Campaign 2017When you arrive, make sure you are prepared in case of an emergency by:

  • Locating smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and fire escape routes in your hotel or home.
  • Make sure everyone knows where the nearest police, fire and medical facilities are, or at least knows who to call in case of an emergency.
  • If you’re traveling internationally, make sure you know where the nearest U.S. Embassy is located and keep its contact information on you at all times.

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For more information on programs in the Northeast Ohio Region of the Red Cross and to learn how you can get involved to help your local community, visit https://www.redcross.org/local/ohio/northeast.html.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Play Ball! Chapter volunteers treated to night at the ballpark

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By Jim McIntyre, Regional Communications & Marketing Manager, American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio

June 28, 2019- Ballgame!

Volunteers of the Greater Cleveland Chapter brought home a winner on Saturday, June 22, 2019, gathering at Classic Park in Eastlake to watch the Lake County Captains play the West Michigan Whitecaps. It was Heroes Appreciation Night at the ballpark, and some American Red Cross hero volunteers took advantage of the offer to go to the game free of charge to recognize their vital contributions to the Red Cross mission.

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Fans of the Lake County Captains, a Class A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, weren’t disappointed. The Captains beat West Michigan 5-2.

“We can’t think of a better place to honor our heroes, our Red Cross volunteers, than at a Lake County Captains game,” said Mike Parks, Regional CEO of the Red Cross of Northeast Ohio.  He then led the crowd as they sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the 7th inning stretch.

Before the game, Mike threw out one of the ceremonial first pitches. Afterward, he claimed the Burning River jersey he was awarded for submitting the highest bid. It was autographed by Captain’s pitcher Thomas Ponticelli, who led  the Captains with a combined no-hitter the night before.

Volunteers received vouchers for free parking and a meal, so they didn’t have to spend a dime to have good time at the ballpark. It was a great evening of summertime baseball and a fun way to reward the dedicated volunteers who pitch in to help the Red Cross serve up  relief on a daily basis for community members in need.

See more photos in our Flickr album here.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

 

Golfers and local community score at annual Red Cross Cup

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By Eric Alves, Regional Communications Specialist, American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio

June 26, 2019-On June 24, the American Red Cross of Northeast Ohio spent a day on the links as they hosted the annual Red Cross Cup at Canterbury Golf Club for a day of friendship, food and golf. Individual and team golfers who placed that day weren’t the only winners. Proceeds from the event will benefit local families affected by disasters.

The event began with the annual meeting of the Greater Cleveland Chapter board of directors, with breakfast provided by members of the Tiffany Circle. The breakfast was held in honor of the late Frann Zverina, a longtime Red Cross supporter.

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Following the meeting, the fun and excitement was ready to get underway.

Before the golfers began play, Jensen Lewis, former Cleveland Indians pitcher and current co-host of the Indians Live broadcast on Fox Sports Ohio, spoke and answered questions regarding the current state of the 2019 team.

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Perhaps through the power of late golf legends Arnold Palmer, Walter Hagen, Ben Hogan and Bobby Jones, the rain held off and the golfers were able to enjoy playing 18 holes on a nationally recognized top 100 golf course in the United States. Participants also had an opportunity to win the use of a new vehicle as part of the hole-in-one contest sponsored by Deacon’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM.

After the score cards were reviewed and scores tallied, golfers were recognized in two categories, scramble and competitive:

Scramble

1st Place: Paul McCrory, Casey Ball, Joe Laehu and Troy Martzall – 64

2nd Place: Michael Burgess, Changing Rhodes, Michael Simpson and Traci Veach – 64

3rd Place: Mike Conley, Austin Cook, Ron Warzel and Chris Schons – 65

Competitive

1st Place: Ben Janozzo – 73

2nd Place: Matt Zajac – 76

3rd Place: Chuck Jones – 77

Following the day on the greens and the award ceremony, golfers enjoyed food, drinks and firsthand analysis from Cleveland sports greats Hanford Dixon and Kevin Mack of the Cleveland Browns,  Jim Chones and Campy Russell of Cleveland Cavaliers and Jonathan Wells of The Ohio State Buckeyes. The question-and-answer segment was emceed by Bruce Drennan of Fox Sports Ohio.

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Thanks to our generous sponsors, including presenting sponsor Home Savings Bank, for ensuring the 2019 Red Cross Cup was a great success and enjoyed by all. Proceeds from the event will assist families who experience disasters like home fires, and who need shelter, food, relief supplies, emotional support and a way forward after experiencing their darkest hours.

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Click here to visit our photo album on Flickr to see photos from the 2019 Red Cross Cup.

We look forward to seeing everyone on the golf course in 2020!

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer.

Acts of Courage & Spirit Awards: Honoring individuals for heroism

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By Mark Sitch, American Red Cross volunteer

June 21, 2019- The annual Acts of Courage & the Spirit of the Red Cross awards was held at the Metroplex in Liberty, Ohio on Thursday, June 13th. It is regarded as the greatest evening of celebrated acts of courage, compassion, character & humility in which the Red Cross Lake to River Chapter proudly honors its deserving recipients each year.

Following a guest reception and social period, Debbi Grinstein, Lake to River board chair, welcomed all to an evening of regional recognition. Opening remarks followed the presentation of colors by Troop 40 of Girard and the chapter’s Disaster Action Teams (DAT) that took part in the hero’s processional. The program master of ceremonies was Greg Greenwood, representing the Greenwood Foundation and a Red Cross Hope Partner.

After a delicious dinner buffet was enjoyed by nearly 300 in attendance, the focal point of this night was now center stage. The spirit of giving and courage was squarely in the spotlight with patriotism for our country, community and individuals exemplifying acts of selflessness. Ten individuals for their heroic efforts and a respected business that captured the spirit of proactive giving were honored. Recipients were:

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Nathen White – (Mahoning County) The Mill Creek Metro Park police officer didn’t plan on saving the life of Malayla Jackson. However, recognizing her allergic reaction, struggling to breathe and time restraints, he hurried her to the hospital in his squad car for the help needed for her survival. “She felt like she was dying”, time was critical and officer White’s quick actions saved her life.

Candice Desanzo – (East Palestine) didn’t know Ruth Kennedy; that is until their paths crossed in an emergency at a local restaurant. While enjoying dinner, Candice witnessed Ruth collapse from an apparent chocking episode. She immediately cared for her with both abdominal thrusts & CPR until EMS arrived. Candice made a difference in positive outcome through her training in live saving techniques.

Fab Four (Mosquito Lake) – Scot Oehlstrom, Rod Schaaf, Mike Soots & Zachery Westrich all had one thing in common on this cold January afternoon – ice fishing. Their second commonality became sharply apparent when they collaborated together to help a family of seven when their tent broke through the ice and heard their calls for help. Nearly 30 yards from shore with a ten-year-old untested rope and the determination of these four enthusiasts knew they had to act fast due to hypothermia. These men, with the screams for help ranging in ages from 7 to 34 were answered in affirmative actions rescuing each one from the frigid water. All survived the frightening ordeal because of the bravery of this fab four who now have more in common; they are heroes.

Mat Jamison (Girard) – Officer Jamison was on routine patrol when he noticed fire at the back of a duplex apartment in the city. After calling the fire department, he felt he had to act now to avoid a possible tragic outcome and entered the burning building with disregard for his own safety to rescue the adults & children inside. Girard Police Chief, John Norman interjected that Jamison had no reservations on going into the house, knocking on doors and getting the people to safety. The department, the city and the community are proud to recognize and honor his efforts that go above and beyond his call of duty.

Judy Sheve (Ashtabula) – Is another of our heroes that knew what to do in a choking emergency, such is the case of a fortunate 91-year-old Simone Campbell. While attending a senior center bridge club night, waitress Judy, recognized the chocking patron and with quick action of abdominal thrusts saved a golden life. In a twist, she left the tip that night; training is paramount in an emergency.

Madison Withrow (Ashtabula) – Is only 10 years old, which is why sharing her story of courage is so important. Madison was home with her mom and her 5 younger siblings when a fire broke out in their home. Against all odds and the will of passion, she was able to carry two 4-month-old twins and return for a 2-year-old brother to safety before first responders arrived. Sadly, Maddie nor the fire fighters could rescue her mother or two younger brothers. We honor and celebrate her selfless courage.

If handling emergencies like the preceding honorees are called acts of courage. Then planning to avoid a life-threatening emergency also falls into the same category, but over a longer period of time as with our next hero.

David Crawford (Canfield) – The local High School is the epicenter of a friendship of Coach Crawford and his boss, Athletic Director, Greg Cooper. Greg was diagnosed with non-alcoholic end stage liver disease-cirrhosis and was waiting for a match. When the coach found out that he was an exact match, “I knew I had the chance to save my friend” he said. That he did, donating 65% of his liver to save Greg’s life that would have ended all too soon.Greg’s daughter delivered a public heartfelt message of affection for the Crawford family and David’s gift of life for her father in a compassionate moment.

Hill Barth & King (HBK) – Was awarded the Spirit of the Red Cross. Founded in Youngstown in 1949 with seventeen offices in five states, they exemplify leadership in the community; compassion for its people and dedication to the life saving mission of the Red Cross.

The closing remarks by chapter director, Karen Conklin, expressed the compassion for family, a friend or a stranger develops extraordinary character, courage and humility that is the spirit of the Red Cross.

Thank you to the Acts of Courage Committee, chair Grinstein, the chapter board, committee judges and the awesome staff for their planning.  It was a proud night for our chapter to honor these recipients. Congratulations and thank you for your selfless acts of courage & spirit!

World Sickle Cell Awareness Day highlights need to fill Missing Types

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By Glinda Dames Fincher

June 16, 2019- My name is Glinda Dames Fincher and I have lived with sickle cell disease for 60 years. Today is World Sickle Cell Awareness Day.

Sickle cell disease affects red blood cells. It makes them hard and sickle shaped instead of soft and round. As a result, blood has difficulty flowing smoothly through the blood vessels and carrying oxygen to the rest of the body.  This causes severe anemia and excruciating pain called sickle cell crisis.

Because of my illness, I depend on blood donors giving blood on a regular basis. As part of my treatment, I receive monthly red cell exchange transfusions. I receive two pints of red blood cells during each of these transfusions. If I have to undergo a major surgery, I receive a total exchange transfusion, which requires about seven to nine units of red cells. I have received regular blood transfusions for the last 20 years to help manage my sickle cell disease. Without donated blood, sickle cell patients face sickle cell crisis, and other complications such as strokes, organ failure, chronic wounds, and shortened lifespan.

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Glinda Dames Fincher speaks at the the Missing Types campaign kick-off at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland

Since most of those with sickle cell in the U.S. are of African and Latino descent, those who receive frequent blood transfusions need blood from those of their same race in order to decrease the chances of the patient having a reaction to the red cells. African American and Latino blood donors are greatly needed to provide the lifesaving transfusions needed not only by those with sickle cell, but also those with other diseases such as cancer, kidney failure and other chronic disorders.”

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I encourage everyone to help fill the Missing Types this summer. Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the US and the world, with about 100,000 with the disease in the US, and an estimated 10 million with the disease worldwide and 100 million carriers of the sickle gene which they may pass on to their children. More blood donors are needed now. Join the American Red Cross and give blood to ensure patients like myself, and so many others, have the lifesaving treatment we need.

Do your part to help fill the missing types this summer and help save lives by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/MissingTypes to schedule a donation appointment today.

Reflections of a former board member

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By Sue Wilson, American Red Cross volunteer

June 16, 2019- Last week I attended the annual meeting of the board of directors for the Summit, Portage and Medina Counties Chapter of the American Red Cross. But it was more than

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L to R: Summit, Portage and Medina Counties Chapter Executive Director Rachel Telegdy, Sue Wilson and Pam Williams

just the final meeting before the summer break. Amidst the business of thanking outgoing board members like me and recognizing new board members to take the place of those exiting, it was time to thank the volunteers—without whom the Red Cross could not accomplish its mission.

I am always moved—amazed but never surprised—to hear the stories of the heroes that make up the many volunteers who are the first responders. Those who show up and stand alongside to help people who have truly experienced the worst day of their life.

The volunteers who have:

  • installed 2,000 free smoke alarms. making 700 homes that didn’t have them safer, as part of the Sound the Alarm campaign.
  • responded to more than 120 home fires, providing residents in our three counties with help and hope.
  • deployed to the Greater Dayton area to help those affected by the recent deadly and destructive tornadoes—running toward disaster while most are running away.
  • given blood and/or found ways to encourage blood donation, especially as part of the Missing Types campaign, which strives to increase the nation’s blood supply by bringing attention to the more rare, missing types of blood, A, B and O, potentially saving more than 75,000 lives.

The thing that hit me most, however, after I received my certificate of appreciation for nine years of board service, was how little I felt I had done compared to these heroic volunteers. And how inspired I feel to continue on, if not as a board member, as a volunteer for this incredible organization so that I can help to continue its legacy of service. I can’t help but feel especially inspired to “be like Pam.”

Pam Williams received the H. Peter Burg award last year for her lifetime of service to our community and the Red Cross. She also steps down as board chair, passing the gavel to Alan Papa, president and chief operating officer for Cleveland Clinic Akron General. Pam truly is a dedicated volunteer. This small space cannot list her many acts of selflessness:  from sleeping in shelters alongside victims of disasters, to driving a forklift, to serving as our government liaison before and while she was our board chair.

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New board of directors chair Alan Papa speaks at the Summit, Portage and Medina Counties Chapter annual meeting

Last week may have been the end of my three-term, nine-year stint as a member of the Red Cross board of directors. But it was the first day of my continuation of a commitment to be a better volunteer for this amazing organization so that I can not only be more like Pam but also like the many volunteers who make up the Red Cross family.

Click here to visit our Flickr account to view photos from the Summit, Portage and Medina Counties Chapter annual meeting.

Commemorating Flag Day in a special way at the VA in Cleveland

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Story and photos by Jim McIntyre, American Red Cross

Sherwin-Williams workers make some of the best paint on the planet.  And while the color palette is vast, it was good ol’ red, white and blue that kept more than two dozen SW employees busy on Friday, June 14.  They planted more than 3,000 U. S. flags on the campus of the Cleveland VA Medical Center to commemorate Flag Day 2019.

Red Cross volunteers joined the Sherwin-Williams workers for the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System’s 2019 Flag Day Walk and Roll.

“We planted the flags to recognize the great work and the people who have supported our country and served over the years for us,” said Sean Osysko,  Senior Vice President of Research and Development at Sherwin-Williams.  “We’ve been around for 153 years and this is our opportunity to get out into the community and give back. It’s just what we do.”

After planting the flags in the morning, they walked alongside veterans being treated at the Medical Center, who were happy to be out in the sunshine and moderate temperatures.  Those veterans who were unable to walk were pushed along in wheelchairs.

“This is just one of the many ways we serve our veterans, active military members and their families,” said Jessica Tischler, Regional Program Manager for Service to the Armed Forces in Northeast Ohio. “Here at the VA Medical Center, we serve coffee out of a mobile cart, we provide a phone battery charging station, and we offer resiliency workshops.”

 

VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System Director Sue Fuehrer, a member of the Board of Directors for the Red Cross Greater Cleveland Chapter, thanked the Sherwin-Williams employees and the Red Cross volunteers for their efforts.  Afterwards, they enjoyed cake decorated like the Stars and Stripes –  wishing Old Glory a happy 242nd birthday.

For more photos from the 2019 VA Flag Day Walk and Roll, visit our Flickr album here.

For more information about volunteer opportunities to help our nation’s veterans, active military members and their families, visit us here.

N_tice _nything missing? Help the Red Cross fill the Missing Types

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By Christy Peters, External Communications Manager, Northern Ohio Blood Region

June 13, 2019- When the letters A, B and O vanish from everyday life, the gaps are striking. And when A, B, O and AB blood types are missing from hospital shelves, lives could be changed forever.

MT 2019_InfographicOn June 11 the American Red Cross partnered with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to launch the Missing Types campaign to raise awareness of the need for new and current blood donors to donate and help ensure blood is available for patients in need this summer. The O’s in Long Live Rock disappeared during the launch, to illustrate the critical role every blood donor plays in ensuring the main blood groups – A, B and O, are available whenever and wherever needed.

A sad truth is only 3 out of 100 Americans donate blood each year, but every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. If more people roll up a sleeve to give, blood shortages can be prevented.

Why blood donors are needed

Tymia McCullough relies on blood donations to help battle sickle cell disease, an inherited disease that causes red blood cells to form in an abnormal crescent shape. Sickle cell disease patients can suffer a range of conditions, including acute anemia, tissue and organ damage, terrible pain and even strokes.

With no widely used cure, regular blood transfusions are one of the most common treatments for sickle cell disease. At one time, when McCullough arrived at the hospital, the blood type she needed for her transfusion was not available.

“It was the scariest, most frightening moment of a mother’s life, because I thought that she would not be able to get it,” said Susie Pitts, Tymia’s mother. “In that moment, in that experience, I was very afraid. I was scared for my daughter’s life ─ what was going to happen if she didn’t get the blood she needed?”

Eight hours later, the nurse came running through the door with the needed blood product.

Again, this past fall Tymia experienced a painful sickle cell crisis and needed to wait 10 long hours for the hospital to locate the blood she needed for her treatment. Thankfully, Tymia is better today, yet her experience illustrates the ongoing need for blood, and at times, the frightening reality patients face when needed blood supplies become critically low.

Make a difference today

  • Spread the word –
  • Write out your name with the A’s, B’s and O’s missing on the “blank” selfie sign, and take a photo with it. (Underscores are recommended. Example: _meric_n Red Cr_ss. Basic directions are also posted at the previous link for your convenience.)
  • Visit RedCrossBlood.org to share a Missing Types message on your social media.

Commit about an hour of your day to give blood and help save a life. Patients need you.

Six things to know before donating:

  1. You don’t need to know your blood type.
    According to a national survey conducted earlier this year on behalf of the Red Cross, more than half (54%) of people believe they need to know their blood type to donate blood. This is simply untrue.
  2. Hydrate – drink an extra 16 oz. of liquid before and after donating.
  3. Enjoy a healthy meal rich in iron and vitamin C before donating – avoid foods high in fat just prior to donation.
  4. Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow.
  5. Complete a RapidPass on the day of donation, prior to arriving, to save time.
  6. Remember to bring an ID.

Help fill in the missing types this summer. Schedule a donation appointment now.

Click here to visit out Flickr account to view photos from the Missing Type kick-off event at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Our thanks to Joann Fabric and Craft Stores for providing the material used to cover the letter “O” in the Long Live Rock sculpture.

This article was edited by Glenda Bogar,  American Red Cross volunteer

Red Cross Cup to tee off at Canterbury Golf Club

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Golfers invited to play at annual event June 24

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By Jim McIntyre, American Red Cross

The annual Red Cross Cup at Canterbury Golf Club promises to be a fantastic day filled with friendship, food and, of course, golf. The event is set at what has been nationally recognized as one of the top 100 golf courses in the United States and one of the finest in Ohio.

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The late Frann Zverina, seated, at the 2018 Red Cross Cup

The day will begin off the course  with the annual meeting of the Board of Directors of the Greater Cleveland Chapter of the American Red Cross, with breakfast provided by members of the Tiffany Circle, in honor of long-time Red Cross supporter, the late Frann Zverina.

 

Before the shotgun start, retired Cleveland Indians pitcher Jensen Lewis, the current co-host of the Indians Live broadcasts on Fox Sports Ohio will share some thoughts about the current state of the team.  And his Fox Sports Ohio colleague, Bruce Drennen will add his unmistakable voice to the event.

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Former Indians pitcher Jensen Lewis returns to the Red Cross Cup

After playing 18 holes, golfers will enjoy 19th hole festivities on the clubhouse patio, including food and drink, a silent and live auction, and an awards ceremony. The top three foursomes from each bracket (competitive and scramble) will receive recognition.

In addition, Cleveland sports legends Jim Chones and Campy Russell of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Jonathan Wells of The Ohio State Buckeyes will be on hand to offer their insights and field questions.

Proceeds from the Red Cross Cup will help fund vital disaster relief services.

Mike Parks, CEO of the Northeast Ohio Region of the Red Cross, stressed the need to support continuing disaster relief efforts in Dayton, where a series of tornadoes on Memorial Day left a trail of heartbreaking damage and destruction.

“Having a major national disaster relief operation in your own backyard highlights the need for ongoing support,” Mike said, noting that more than 20 volunteers from Northeast Ohio have been deployed to assist residents affected by severe weather in Ohio and Oklahoma.

“It costs money to train and deploy our volunteers when they are assigned to help those impacted by a disaster. Combined with the costs of vehicles and other equipment, the need for ongoing support for disaster relief is obvious,” Mike said.

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Home Savings Bank is the Presenting Sponsor of the Red Cross Cup.  Featured in this photo from the 2018 event are Michelle Polinko, Regional Chief Development Officer,  Matt Garrity of Home Savings, event chair Laura Hauser, and Regional CEO Mike Parks

Red Cross Cup golfers will receive shoe bags branded with the Red Cross Cup/CanterburyIMG_6027 logo, Red Cross first aid kits and Red Cross cooler bags. All golfers can also compete for the use of a new vehicle  on the hole-in-one contests sponsored by Deacon’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM.

To reserve your foursome, visit redcross.org/cup19, contact Mary Williams at eventsneo@redcross.org or call 330-203-5084.

Click here to see photos from the 2018 Red Cross Cup.

Click here to see photos from the 2017 Red Cross Cup.

Click here to see photos from the 2016 Red Cross Cup.

This post was edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer