Radiothon helps domestic violence shelter

Radio station Star 105.5 will once again "Take a Stand for Turning Point" with its third annual 36 hour Radiothon. The station will be broadcasting live from Sam's Club, in Crystal Lake Friday and Saturday, Aug. 22 and 23, urging listeners to call in donations or to come down in person to support Turning Point, McHenry County's only comprehensive domestic violence agency and shelter.

The event will again be hosted by Star morning personality Paula McKay. McKay is expecting her first child in September and will be on hand as long as her baby and doctors allow. "I think it says so much about Paula's devotion to this issue" said Turning Point Executive Director Jane Farmer. "When she told us she'd be having a baby in September, I fully expected her to bow out of the event, but she's determined to be there and to raise money for Turning Point!"

And this is a crucial time for the agency; between federal cuts and the delays in completing the Illinois budget, Turning Point is facing a significant shortfall in funding. "This past spring, TP was notified that our domestic violence funding would be cut by more than 28 percent. Also, without a budget signed by the governor, NO funding can be released at all, so not only do we have this permanent loss of funds, but currently, we are not even getting the funds that were allocated to Turning Point."

Which all makes this year's Radiothon even more important. "This is our largest annual fundraiser and while times are hard all over, I know that McHenry County will come through for us again" Farmer said.

Turning Point recently sent out an appeal to the community, alerting them to the cuts. "These funding cuts specifically target our children's programs. We are determined to close this budget gap and NOT allow our programs to be eliminated."

The Radiothon kicks off at 6 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22 with Gary & Paula. Special guests that morning will include local elected officials and representatives from Crystal Lake's Conscious Cup who will be on hand pouring free coffee for all who stop by. Events will continue throughout the day, leading up to performances by Truman and his Trophy, The Hudson Branch and Chase Alexia and the Pretty Good Friday night.

Saturday morning will kick off at 6 a.m. and feature kid's activities and games all morning and a Car Seat Safety Check by the Crystal Lake Police. Saturday afternoon will feature a performance by Cheerfusion competitive team cheerleaders and dancers, followed by local band Lincoln Avenue. Tune in to Star 105.5 or check the Web site, www.Star105.com, for updates as more entertainment is added.

Donations for "Take a Stand for Turning Point" are being accepted at the agency at (815) 338 8081.