12/05/11 The annual Shop With A Cop radio auction heard on WTCA AM1050 on Friday may have reached station manager Kathy Bottorff’s goal of $15,000. The proceeds will be used to take local needy children shopping on Saturday, December 10.

This marked the fourth year that the radio station has provided air time for the auction. The first year started almost by accident when FOP Lodge #195 was given three items to use for raising funds. That year, the auction raised $600. From that generous donation the idea was born and by the next year the community had donated items that brought in $10,000.

Last year the ending total was about $13,000, so those involved set the goal higher this year.

The exact total for 2011 could not be tallied as yet since some of those who bid on items were not able to pick them up on Friday or Saturday. WTCA Station Manager Kathy Bottorff said, “Any items that aren’t picked up or that sparked no bids will be auctioned off on Thursday, December 8th during the What’s Your Opinion Show at 9 a.m.”

Hershel Hunter, president of FOP Lodge #195, said, “This is only possible with the community’s support.” There were over 400 auction items donated this year ranging from gift certificates to large items. Every item helped them to raise the needed funds to make Christmas a little brighter for kids right here inMarshallCounty.

Among those donating were Adams Remco representatives Dave Hodges, regional sales manager, and Janell Prochno, account executive. Their generous donation worth over $6,000 of two Toshiba 46 inch TV’s, two Toshiba Thrive Tablets, one Toshiba Laptop and one Lexmark Color printer, scanner, fax, and copier help to keep the phone lines constantly ringing. Prochno said, “We do business inPlymouthandMarshallCountyand it’s our privilege to help those in the communities where we live and work.”

But like all of the other businesses making donations, Prochno echoed their sentiments saying, “It’s not about us. It’s about the kids and families.”

Hunter and police officers, firemen, EMT’s and dozens of volunteers will be meeting next Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at Wal-Mart. Hunter said, “We plan to be able to shop with at least 300 kids this year.” Hunter said, “I’m always humbled by the kids who use their money to buy coats, clothes( including socks and underwear) , and even toothbrushes. Many times they want to buy presents for their family.”

The Auto Park heard the auction and during the program brought in a check for $1,000 to help take another 10 kids shopping next week.  They have already started planning their support of the program for next year.

There is still time to support the 2011 Shop With A Cop program.  Donations can be dropped off at WTCA, 112 West Washington Street in Plymouth.

Carol Anders Correspondent