Dorney Plaza in Downtown Findlay was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, April 25. Open Arms hosted Walk A Mile In Her Shoes: The International Men's March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault & Gender Violence.Nearly 100 people turned out to walk, including Mayor Pete Sehnert who walked in red, 3-inch heels. Radio personalities Keith Hodkinson, Smokin' Joe Bacon and the Big Kahuna proved that they can talk the talk and walk the walk. Several local business organized teams to walk as well. The event was our sole fundraiser for this year, and we received over $10,000!
The festivities began with an opening ceremony from emcee Dave Glass, vice president and director of broadcast at the Findlay Publishing Company. Findlay High School student Lindsay Barlett sang the Star Spangled Banner and then the Gold Medal Platinum All Star Cheerleaders led the walkers down Main Street to kick off the walk.
Walkers could rest at three different "comfort zones" along the route and choose to buy out by purchasing flip-flops to wear instead of their heels. However, the majority of walkers strutted right past and finished the mile walk in heels - in fact, many of the heels are ripped straight down to the nail.
A reception and awards ceremony followed the walk. Awards for best time went to three students who finished the walk in under 10 minutes by running most of the way in heels. Judges also handed out awards for categories such as "best strut" and "most graceful."
Prizes were awarded for the adult and student walker with the highest amount of pledges. Student Erik Glass brought $225 in pledges and won a bike donated by the Bike Shop. Adult Dave Gerardi collected $546 in pledges and won a gift basket full of various gift certificates including $45 to Outback Steak House, a Hotel Night Stay at Findlay Fairfield Inn and a LaRiche Chevrolet-Cadillac hat, oil change, and “spa day” for your car.
The day was fun for the whole family. Food vendors offered tasty treats on the hot, sunny day. A children's area, with teachers from 1 Amazing Place child care, provided activities for kids. Walkers could soothe aching backs and feet with massages from Angel Hands, the Wellness Center and Chiropractor Dr. Charley Foltz.
View or purchase pictures here, thanks to photographer Marie Smith at Expressions Photo Art Studio. Then watch the video footage, provided by Flag City Online, here.
The event would not have been a success without our sponsors or volunteers. Thank you for your time and donations - your contributions made this walk possible. We are thankful for those who participated in this fun event to raise awareness about the serious issues of domestic violence and sexual assault. Get ready for Walk A Mile In Her Shoes 2010!
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