Highlights is a 30 minute weekly TV show featuring organizations, events, grass-roots efforts and people who move our state and community forward in a positive way.
The show is a collaboration with Kanawha County Schools, Optimum Communications and Jim Strawn & Company.
The show airs daily at 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Optimum’s channel 17.
The show airing August 21, 2023 – September 4, 2023 features the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club and the Charleston Distance Run.
We interviewed John Palmer, Race Director for CDR and Gary Smith, Secretary for CDR.
They both spoke with pride as they discussed the long and rich history of the Charleston Distance Run. They are celebrating the 50th anniversary this year.
The race is set to start at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 2, 2023.
Known as America’s 15-Miler, the race is a scenic but challenging course, starting at our majestic State Capitol, taking you through downtown Charleston, rolling through the beautiful hillside neighborhoods, and along Charleston’s riverfront.
How Race Started
The founder, Don Cohen, drove his car around Charleston and up into South Hills. He wanted the race to emcompass all the Charleston neighborhoods.
At 93 now, Mr. Cohen will be honored at the Pasta Party on Friday evening September 1, 2023.
John encouraged all to get registered on their website.
He has participated in the CDR since 1978. Gary started in 1974.
History
As secretary, Gary has compiled a thorough document illustrating the rich history of the event.
John also thanked all the sponsors that make this event possible.
We also interviewed Jay Silverman, Advisory Board and Justin Clark, Executive Director of the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club.
Mission of the Boys & Girls Club
Justin discussed the club. For over 50 years The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs have been unique places created by The Salvation Army that offer programs and services that exemplify and actively practice Christian principles. The mission of these clubs is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. This is done in a way that causes recipients of our services to learn to admire the values, ethics and skills presented, and incorporate them into their own lives. To reach today’s young people and their families in a non-threatening way, our Clubs create an accepting, positive and challenging environment where young people of every background, circumstance, race, creed and religion feel welcomed.
They operate M-F during the summer and then it is an after-school program as well.
To fund their mission they rely on community support.
Steak & Buger Event
Jay discussed their upcoming fundraising event, Steak n Burgers set for August 29th at the WV Culture Center.
Complete with Dem 2 Brothers food and good vibes from DJEJ, it promises to be a fun evening.
Auction items on hand as well.
To learn more about the Club or how you can support this event, contact them at 304-342-8831.
If you would like to learn more about the Highlights TV Show, contact Host and Executive Producer Jim Strawn at 304-541-4756.
