journalfront

ParentsKids

The 'Cops & Kids Go Shopping' Program in Findlay: A Holiday Tradition in Need of Donations

2024-11-25

During these inflationary times with rising costs of items, the 'Cops & Kids Go Shopping' program in Findlay is facing a crucial challenge. Teresa White, the development director for Fort Findlay Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 20 Foundation, emphasizes the significance of this event as it provides local children with toys during the holidays. As she explains, "We give them each $200 and we set them loose in Meijer with their own personal police officer to help them spend it." Fort Findlay FOP Lodge 20 Foundation meticulously organizes this event on one morning during the holidays. However, White expresses her nervousness as prices have gone up and the need from families has also increased. She states, "I'm very concerned. I don't want to be the one to tell a mom, 'No I'm sorry, we can't take your kids this year.'" This program is fully local, and White highlights the importance of community donations, whether big or small. She emphasizes that every dollar and every donation could potentially mean that another child gets that positive experience with a law enforcement officer and has their Christmas made. White concludes by stating that by donating to the cause, one is creating memories for local children and those officers, and the money stays in Hancock County. If you wish to donate online, you can do so by clicking here. It can also be mailed to Fort Findlay FOP Lodge 20 Foundation, P.O. Box 1335, 1769 S. Romick Pkwy., Findlay, OH 45840.

Why This Program Matters

This 'Cops & Kids Go Shopping' program holds a special place in the hearts of both children and the community. It serves as a bridge between law enforcement and local families, creating a positive and memorable experience. The $200 given to each child allows them to explore Meijer and make choices that bring joy to their holiday season. It shows that there are caring individuals in the community who are willing to support these families during a time when finances may be tight. The presence of a personal police officer with each child also helps to build trust and understanding between the two groups. This program not only provides toys but also instills a sense of safety and security in the children.

Impact on Families

For many families, this program is a lifeline. It allows them to give their children a Christmas filled with presents and the excitement of the holiday season. Without this support, some families might struggle to provide even the basic necessities for their children. The 'Cops & Kids Go Shopping' program gives these families hope and a chance to create lasting memories. It shows that they are not alone and that there are people who care about their well-being. Families often express their gratitude for this program, as it takes away some of the stress and worry during the holiday season. It allows them to focus on spending time with their children and creating a happy home environment.

Role of the Community

The community plays a vital role in the success of this program. Small donations can add up and make a big difference. Whether it's a few dollars or a larger contribution, every donation helps to ensure that more children can participate. Community members who volunteer their time to help with the event also add to its success. They provide support and assistance to both the children and the police officers, making the day run smoothly. The sense of community spirit that is fostered through this program is truly remarkable. It brings people together and shows that we can make a positive impact on the lives of others. By donating and getting involved, community members are helping to create a better future for the next generation.

Long before the names Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo graced the lyrics of “Defying Gravity,” there existed the magnificent Broadway musical “Wicked.” And prior to that, there was “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” by Gregory Maguire, which drew inspiration from L. Frank Baum’s characters in “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”

Unraveling the Mystique of "Wicked"

The “Wicked” phenomenon, whether in the form of the movie, the Broadway musical, or the book, has crafted Dorothy’s arch-nemesis as a fully developed (and green) character with a poignant backstory. This book serves as a prequel to L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” The name Elphaba, given to the Wicked Witch of the West, is derived from the initials of the original creator. Let’s explore – L, F, B.In “Wicked,” we witness a friendship blossoming between Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba as they study sorcery together at school, long before their paths cross with Dorothy and her companions.Check out: USA TODAY’s weekly Best-selling Booklist

The Appropriate Audience for the "Wicked" Book

In a nutshell, the “Wicked” book by Gregory Maguire holds significant differences from the stage adaptation. One of the opening scenes features puppets engaged in a rather unconventional act. When we are first introduced to Elphaba in the book, she is a wild infant who bites off people’s appendages and is subsequently muzzled. The book is rife with elements such as drinking, drugs, sexual assault, prostitution, crime, and even wild sex parties involving humans and animals.In an interview with MassLive, Maguire explained that while the main themes translate, his book is a “tragedy” whereas the stage production is a “bittersweet drama.” He said, “I purposely included some raunchy material in the first few pages of ‘Wicked’ the novel to showcase what people were getting into and to make them realize they would have to leave behind their notions of an all-singing, all-dancing chorus line of flying monkeys.”

The Release Timeline of the "Wicked" Books

Maguire’s “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” made its debut in 1995. Known for his unique reimaginings of fairytales, Maguire went on to create an entire series centered around Elphaba and the other characters from “Oz.”There are three sequels to “Wicked” in the “The Wicked Years” series:“Wicked”“Son of a Witch”“A Lion Among Men”“Out of Oz”His “Another Day” series features three stories about Elphaba’s green-skinned granddaughter:“The Brides of Maracoor”“The Oracle of Maracoor”“The Witch of Maracoor”He also penned a prequel to “Wicked” titled “Elphie,” which delves into Elphaba’s childhood.

The Origins of "The Wizard of Oz"

The original source material for “Wicked” is the beloved children’s book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” which was published in 1900. L. Frank Baum went on to publish 14 books in the “Oz” series over the next 20 years.In 1939, this classic was famously adapted into a movie starring Judy Garland, marking a significant revolution in the use of color in cinema.A Parent’s Guide to “Wicked”: Is the PG Movie Suitable for Young Audiences?“Oz” Books in Order: The Original L. Frank Baum SeriesThere are 40 canonical works in the “Oz” series, affectionately known by fans as the “Famous Forty.” Most of these were not written by Baum; after his death in 1919, his publishers commissioned dozens more “Oz” books from other authors.Here are the 14 books in Baum’s original series:“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”“The Marvelous Land of Oz”“Ozma of Oz”“Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz”“The Road to Oz”“The Emerald City of Oz”“The Patchwork Girl Of Oz”“Tik-Tok of Oz”“The Scarecrow Of Oz”“Rinkitink In Oz”“The Lost Princess Of Oz”“The Tin Woodman Of Oz”“The Magic of Oz”“Glinda Of Oz”He also released a book of short stories featuring the Oz characters – “Little Wizard Stories of Oz” – in 1913.From Broadway to the Silver Screen: “Wicked” Movie’s Biggest ChangesLooking for your next great read? USA TODAY has you covered.Taste is highly subjective, and USA TODAY Books offers a wide range of genres to recommend. Craving a buzzy new literary fiction title? Read our review of “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney. Are mysteries your forte? Try titles similar to “Verity” by Colleen Hoover or test your bravery with one of our favorite horror novels. Or if you prefer something with lower stakes and loveable characters, explore “cozy mystery” or “cozy fantasy” books. If you want the most popular titles, don’t forget to check out USA TODAY’s Best-selling Booklist.Contributing: Patrick Ryan