Newsletters

The Mahoning County Democrat - July 2010

Message from the Chairman…

“Frankly Speaking”, Why Barney Frank??

Here we are in the midst of summer in the Mahoning Valley. This is a time for lounging by the pool, baseball games and family picnics. It is a chance to enjoy life and take a vacation from the everyday grind.

In the world of politics, we too take this opportunity to kick back some, especially after a grueling Primary election season. It is a time for candidates and their campaigns to take stock and to reenergize before the final push into the November General election. It is also a time, perhaps most importantly, for a candidate to raise much needed funds. After depleting their “campaign accounts” during the Primary they need to replenish the “kitty” for the General election.

Our Mahoning County Democratic Party is no different, we too need to raise money, not only so we can be able to provide support for our Candidates, but also just to “pay the bills” for the year. Running a Headquarters; rent, utilities, supplies, postage and hosting an occasional gathering is costly.

So, I say to you, “VACATION IS OVER”. It is time to get to work! It is time for the

Annual Chairman’s Dinner

This is it: Our premier fund-raising event and I expect a stellar turnout of elected officials and Democratic supporters.

Our Special Guest for this year’s event is Congressman Barney Frank of Massachusetts, and the Chairman of the powerful House Financial Services Committee.

Through the assistance of Congressman Charlie Wilson we were successful in achieving his commitment. But many inquired as to why I chose Barney Frank. Well, first and foremost he is a dynamic, witty and entertaining speaker, Also, he has well-known name recognition and popularity. But the stature he holds in the U.S. House of Representatives and the influence on the financial decisions by our Government is what is really important to this Valley, and why his presence here is an unprecedented opportunity.

In a region hit hard by the financial meltdown, and significantly impacted by the foreclosure crisis, this is a vital opportunity for our Valley financial institutions, bankers and real estate brokers to be able to have a personal conversation, and to voice their needs to the individual who has the power to initiate change. So while he is coming here to help the MCDP raise money, the significance of his visit has a much more far reaching benefit to this Valley.

The Mahoning County Democratic Party
Annual Chairman's Dinner

August 12, 2010
Mr. Anthony's Banquet Hall, South Ave, Boardman
Private Reception (5 pm) and Dinner: $1000
Dinner only (6 pm) $500
RSVP to 330-799-2959

Electronic payment available: www.mahoningcountydems.org

Senator Schiavoni's Letter Promotes Ohio Travel

Dear Neighbor,

Summer if finally here and I am sure many of you will be taking small trips during the next few months. I would encourage you to consider taking those trips to places in our great state of Ohio. Being a State Senator has given me the opportunity to travel around to many areas of Ohio I would not have seen otherwise.

In my district counties alone there are multiple hidden treasures. Mahoning County has Mill Creek Park and the Butler Institute of American Art; Stark County has the Football Hall of Fame and the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum; Carroll County has historic downtown Carrollton and Atwood Lake Resort; and Tuscarawas County has the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum and beautiful Amish country hideaways.

These are just some of the great places to visit and there are many, many other quality vacation spots across the state. The Ohio Department of Development published an interesting brochure called “Why Ohio”, which provides facts about tourism in the state. I think the following are worthy of a mention:

Ohio is home to 74 state parks and 12 designated scenic rivers Yellow Springs, OH was named one of the “Ten Coolest Small Towns” by Budget Travel
The Butler Institute in Youngstown is the first museum of American Art featuring more than 20,000 pieces of work
Ohio’s symphonies are continually ranked tops in the country
Ohio is home to 7 major league sports teams
Ohio arts and festivals attendance ranks 2nd the U.S.

While planning your vacations or weekend getaways, I would hope locations in Ohio would at least get a thought. Governor Strickland’s office sent out a release detailing some summer events. For more ideas and reasonable summer trips visit:

Discover Ohio

Traveling within our borders will not only benefit Ohio, but will give you a deeper appreciation for the places you call home.

Enjoy the summer.

Sincerely,

Joe Schiavoni

State Senator

33rd District

Senator Schiavoni standing at the site of the first
Carroll County Court House, which was built in1835.
The marker and bell are located in Carrollton's city
central square.

Chairman announces organizational and operational staff expansion in preparation for November Election.

Mahoning County Democratic Party Chairman, David J. Betras, and the Executive Officers announced that the Party has substantially expanded its organizational and operational staff in preparation for the November 4th General Election.

The MCDP decided to enlarge its field staff in order to meet its goal of generating the largest possible Democratic turnout in the county in November.

“We’ve said since last year that we will do whatever is necessary to produce the votes Ted Strickland, Lee Fisher, and the other statewide candidates need to win,” Betras said. "This expansion is merely one in a series of steps we'll take to get that important job done."

Those appointed to the MCDP's operational team include Cynthia McWilson and Rachel Hanni who will serve as Voter Registration and Voter Turnout Co-Coordinators. The pair will assume responsibility for voter registration drives and related events and will organize the Party's GOTV efforts. In order to strengthen the Party's overall capabilities, Mildred Delgado, Rose Colucci, Tina Morrell and Debbie Ervin have been named field organizers. They will work with the local, state, and federal candidates throughout the campaign.

In addition to the new appointments, Chairman Betras announced that following individuals will continue in their leadership roles for the Democratic Party:

John Vivo, Executive Director, is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the HQ and the planning and coordination of all Democratic events;

Richard "Oz" Ouzounian, Political Director;

Phil Beshara, Finance Director;

Laureen Scahill,Social Network Coordinator;

Janet Kust, LGBT Coordinator;

Joyce Kale-Pesta, Liaison to the Central Committee.

The MCDP leaders also announced that Jaladah Aslam, has been named Local Campaign Coordinator for Governor Ted Strickland's reelection bid and that Ron Massullo, former regional representative for Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner, has been named Local Campaign Coordinator for the Ohio Democratic Party's slate of statewide candidates.

Canfield Fair to Spotlight State Candidate Ticket

This year, the Canfield Fair is set for September 1st through the 6th, and our Democratic Party Tent will be a “hot” spot of activity. The Governor and U.S. Senate races will draw much interest among fairgoers and promotion of all our Statewide candidates will be important. They all will be visiting the Fair over the six-day event, while spending time and shaking hands at our Party Tent. We want to make a good and strong impression of our support.

We need volunteers to staff the Tent every day and every evening to register new voters and hand out literature for the Candidates. This is an important election and the Tent will be busy! Besides, we have to make sure “Our Democrat Tent” is better than the GOP Tent!

If you are interested in helping out contact Joyce Kale-Pesta at 330-965-1159, joycekp@aol.com

"Just Add Pepper": David Pepper for State Auditor

The Auditor is ideally suited to get the most and best out of government at all levels while reducing its cost. The Auditor serves as the taxpayers' financial watchdog, targeting corruption, eliminating waste, and ensuring the proper use of public funds. Eliminating these problems is the best way to assure government is getting its important work done as efficiently as possible.

David Pepper has a track record of fighting waste, abuse and fraud in government since he first entered public office. As a Cincinnati city councilman and Hamilton County commissioner, David has targeted wasteful and improper contracts and practices, eliminated unnecessary spending by the millions, targeted government perks such as double dipping, cell phones, and take home cars, insisted on transparency and high ethics, and has repeatedly shared in the sacrifice when it comes to his own official salary.

The State Auditor will hold one of the five seats on the Apportionment Board. He views his seat on the Board as a responsibility to create competitive districts that give real choice in elections, that allow the results in Columbus to reflect the will of the voters across the State, and that help put an end to endless partisan bickering. He believes that elected officials perform best when they know they are accountable to voters in the next election, and are most in touch with citizens when they have to fight for every vote.

Dem Club Highlight: "get involved, join a club!"

Mahoning County Democratic Women's Caucus

Our mission is to get more women involved in the political process. We seek to bring women into the political process by educating, mobilizing and empowering women at the grass roots level. Any woman age 16 and older are welcome to join our cause. We have honorary male members as well.

Contact: Kristen Olmi, President, Mahoning DWC
330.720.8551, klomi.mcdp@yahoo.com

Attention Central Committee

We need your e-mail address

By e-mailing we can facilitate getting general information to you quickly and efficiently and we save on postage costs.

Set up a separate e-mail account for MCDP info, if you wish.

Send e-mail address to: mcdp4news@gmail.com

Struthers Ladies Club Plans Bus Trip

Date: Sun, 08/15/2010 - 8:30am

The Struthers Federated Democratic Ladies will host a bus trip on Sunday August 15th to Wheeling Downs.

They are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year and would love to have as many Dems as possible to join them.

The cost is $30.00; but get $25.00 back in free play and meal coupon so it only costs $5.00. There will be snacks, games, 50/50, and basket raffle on the bus.

The bus will leave Struthers Fifth Street Plaza at 8:30 am and leave for the return trip home at 6:30 pm from Wheeling, arriving back to Struthers around 8:15 to 8:30 pm.

Join Us!

For information contact: Tina Morell (330) 727-6232

Coming Soon …

The Mahoning County Democratic Picnic

August 13, 2010, 6:00 p.m.
Maronite Center Pavilion

This event is free.
Join us for Food, Drinks and Fun

Basket Raffle: Donations of Baskets, Gift cards and Prizes
Contact Joyce: 330-965-1159 or
deliver to HQ: 330-799-2959

Mark your calendar now!

E-Mail Newsletter

If you receive a paper printed version of the MCDP Newsletter and you would prefer to receive an electronic/e-mail version, please submit your name and e-mail address to: mcdp4news@gmail.com

The Mahoning County Democrat is a publication of the Mahoning County Democratic Party (MCDP)

Editor: David Betras, Chair
John Vivo, Executive Director/Secretary

Produced by: MCDP Communication Committee:
Laureen Scahill, Director
Laura Canale, Social Network Coordinator
Tyler Clark, Consultant
Kathi McNabb-Welsh
Kristen Olmi
Janet Tarpley
Janet Kust

The Communication Committee encourages our readers to submit articles, pictures, notices of events and commentary for publication.

E-mail all submissions to:
mcdp4news@gmail.com

(Due to limited space in the Newsletter, some items submitted may be featured on the website and/or Facebook.)

The Mahoning County Democrat - May 2010

Messages about the Chairman...

Usually, this space is reserved for “Messages from the Chairman”. This time we asked Elected officials, Committee members and Union Leaders for their comments “about” Chairman Betras and of the job he has done this past year. Here is what some had to say...

Dave Betras has been the best thing to happen to Mahoning County Democrat Party. His work with all the party politicians and the labor of the valley have come together to work for what is best for the Mahoning Valley. His energy, his commitment to the party has been proven time and again.- JoAnn Johntony, State President of the Ohio Association Public School Employees

For me, David Betras has been a "breath of fresh air" that has energized our party. He has given us a great foundation to build on for the coming years. It is my belief that if you want to be successful at whatever you do, you must have a passion to do it. David Betras has shown me that he has the passion, energy, dedication and courage to lead the Democratic Party for years to come. - John R. Swierz, Y-town 7th Ward Councilman

Chairman Betras is always willing to help. If he's busy, he finds the time. Most importantly, he delivers. - Hanna M. Kassis, Campaign Manager for Tim Ryan

When I decided to support him initially there was little doubt in my mind that he would do an acceptable job; his taking hold of the Party and his actions and activity as Chairman have exceeded my expectations. - George D. Beelen, Canfield District Leader: CNF 3

Chairman Betras has brought new energy to the MCDP. He had a plan from the onset, and he is sticking to it. Putting the power back into the central committee and unifying the party is what I see happening. - David B.Green, President, UAW 1714, BDM 45

Under his leadership, the MCDP has arrived in the 21st Century. Embracing the technology of today with our website, newsletter, social networks, emails and on-line donations, we offer more access and visibility to the public, more effectiveness for our candidates and the ability to engage the next generation of Democrats, our youth. - Laureen Scahill, MCDP Communication Director, YGN 5C

Chairman Betras has shown leadership that has been lacking in the Mahoning Valley. - Travis Hoskinson, Business Representative, Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association

For the first time in several years, a struggling Mahoning County HAS a Democrat Party! In a little more than a years time, under the leadership of Chairman Betras, we are respected by our leaders on the National, State & local levels!! - Bev Reyes, BDM 17

The Young Democrats are grateful to Chairman Betras who helped us from day one in restabilizing and reorganizing so that we could get back to a place where the young dems are a force for the Valley. - Brandon Kovach, President, Mahoning County Young Democrats

DB is a great fundraiser which benefits the entire party. And once the MCDP supports you, he will not let anything stand in the way of that support. - John McNally, MC Commissioner

I think Chairman Betras has done an outstanding job with the MCDP..., he has his career, money and prestige without the politics! He must really love his position as chairman.... - Cynthia McWilson, Y-town 5th Ward District Leader, YGN 5I

What I found out was that the chairman is a tenacious individual with a passion for this party. He will do whatever he has to, he will spend whatever he has to, (including his own money) in order to get the party united and to make us a stronghold in the political community once again. We, through the leadership of the chairman, have raised more money than any previous chairpersons. David has done a great job of putting together a "team" that works well together.... - Richard Clautti, Treasurer, Mahoning County Democratic Party, BDM 13

The Mahoning County Democrat - March 2010

Message from the Chairman......

It is time to end the "Family Feuds"

If the Valley had a significant Republican challenge then the Democrats here would have a clear-cut opponent to focus on and put an end to all this constant fighting within our own Party! I am not advocating for more GOP influence, but at least the battle would then be clear. I have come to the conclusion, some are not happy unless there is conflict, but this constant turmoil that exists among our own Party has got to come to an end. When will everyone realize, this internal strife does so much harm. United we could be so powerful, divided only makes us weak, not to mention an embarrassment across the state. We are such a strong Democratic Valley, we should be recognized and in control of Democratic politics in Ohio, yet we are overlooked and our votes taken for granted. Why? Because no one wants to contend with so many factions all vying for control. Some 10 months ago the Central Committee members put their faith in me, and gave me the opportunity to lead this Party. It truly has been a humbling experience. I assume it is because they wanted to see us move in a positive direction, and when someone asks ”what direction am I taking the Party?”, the answer is clear “Forward!” In this short time I have tried my best, I have devoted my time, my energy, my resources, and my finances as I strive to obtain that goal. This Valley deserves to be recognized as a brilliant star with the State Democratic Party and a “real threat” to our political opponents. Everyday, and I do mean “EVERYDAY” (just ask my wife, Pam), my focus has been on returning this Party to the proud stature it deserves in this Community. I am focused, I am determined but lately what I have been is distracted. Distracted by all the nonsense, distracted by all the game playing and the constant embattlement. Is no one ever satisfied? This is politics folks! It is ever evolving and in motion. The sun sets on some, the sun rises on a new fresh face, that’s politics. The old regime is put aside by an energetic new direction, that’s politics. There is no stagnation, there is no going back, get out of the way, the MCDP is moving “FORWARD!!”.

Dems turnout for 4th Annual Hall of Fame Dinner

An impressive turnout of Democratic Party Leadership and supporters were in attendance Friday, March 5th at the Maronite Center to honor the latest inductees into the Mahoning County Democratic Party Hall of Fame. This years honorees are highlighted on the following page; Rosemary Durkin, Vincent E. Gilmartin, Pete Starks and John Vitullo. One memorable moment came when Vince Gilmartin sang an Irish antidote about a 19 year old lass with a Democratic twist that had the crowd roaring in laughter. Several State officials and candidates were also in attendance including Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher, Judge Mary Jane Trapp, Maryellen O’Shaughnessy, and Judge Eric Brown

2010 Mahoning County Hall of Fame Honorees

Rosemary Durkin

Rosemary was appointed a Deputy Clerk in the Youngstown Municipal Court in 1946. In the 70’s she was appointed Chief Deputy Clerk and Assistant Clerk of Courts. She then sought the elected office of Clerk of Courts and in 1976 was sworn in as the 1st Woman in Mahoning County to hold a major office. Considered by many to be the “trailblazer” for women in politics in this Valley. She held the office until she retired in 1999. She was honored as State of Ohio Person of the Year when Harry Meshel was Chairman of the State Democratic Party. She was named Woman of the Year by the JFK Club and Irish Woman of the Year. She is also proud of organizing the Pre-election Mass and Breakfast for Committee members with then Chairman, Don Hanni.

Vincent E. Gilmartin

Vincent graduated from Harvard College in 1950 and received his J.D. from Ohio Northern University in 1954. He served as Assistant Attorney General for the State of Ohio and as Assistant Law Director for the City of Youngstown. In 1968 he was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Mahoning County and served for 4 consecutive terms. He was named Outstanding Prosecutor of the Year in 1978. In 1985 he returned to private practice until his retirement in 2008. He was honored as Irish Man of the Year in 2000, served as Master of Ceremony for the St Patrick’s Day Parade, and as Grand Marshall in 1986. He is a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus.

Herman “Pete” Starks

Herman “Pete” Starks was employed by the Republic Steel Co. for 39 years where he served as financial secretary, grievance committeeman and Civil Rights Coordinator for the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1331. He was elected in 1964 to Youngstown City Council and served for 22 years as 2nd Ward Councilman. His tenure on Council included Chairman of the Finance Committee and was responsible for millions of dollars in improvement projects for his Ward. He was elected to the Board of Directors of the National Black Caucus in 1970, served on the boards of the McGuffey Center and Community Action Council and elected as Vice President of the Youngstown Historical Center of Labor and Industry. Pete was recognized by the East High Hall of Fame and now serves on that Board.

John Vitullo 1902-1948

John C. Vitullo was the powerful Chairman of the Democratic party in the 1940’s, referred to as “the Boss” of Youngstown and Mahoning County. During his tenure, he was a member of the Ohio State Democratic Executive Committee for 6 years and was a close personal friend of then Governor, Frank Lausche. He was delegate to the 1944 and 1948 Democratic National Conventions. During that ‘48 Presidential campaign he served in Washington D.C. on an elite Strategy committee that proved successful for President Truman. He served on the Board of Elections from 1940 until his death in 1948 and was honored as Man of the Year by the Jackson-Roosevelt Democratic Club.

Central Committee called to Endorsement process

In accordance with the Constitution of the MCDP and for the 1st time in approximately two decades, the Mahoning County Democratic Party called upon the Executive and Central Committee Members to come together for the purpose of endorsing candidates for the May 4, 2010 Primary election. For weeks leading up to this event, the Committee members were courted by the Candidates through letters and phone calls explaining their qualifications, platforms and asking for their support. In the end, the Committees made their choices: THE MCDP ENDORSED CANDIDATES : Ted Strickland, Governor Yvette McGee Brown, Lt. Gov. Maryellen O'Shaughnessy, SOS Richard Cordray, Atty General Kevin Boyce, State Treasurer David Pepper, State Auditor U.S. Senate: Jennifer Brunner and Lee Fisher, both endorsed. U.S. Congress: Tim Ryan (17th), Charlie Wilson (6th). State Senate: Joe Schiavoni(33rd) State Reps: Bob Hagan(60th), Ron Gerberry (59th), Mark Oakey(61st) State Supreme Court: Judges Eric Brown and Mary Jane Trapp Mahoning County Commissioner: Carol Rimedio-Righetti County Auditor: Mike Sciortino 7th District Court of Appeals: Judge Gene Donofrio.

The Mahoning County Democrat - January 2010

Message from the Chairman......

Happy New Year !!
Welcome to 2010!!

As the MCDP moves into the 21st Century, welcome to the “technology era” of Mahoning County politics! The News Media and the Retail Industry, among others, have embraced the internet and it’s ability to offer a new frontier and reach out to new customers. Politics had been slow to follow suit, until the Obama campaign proved its relevance to a successful strategy and a winning campaign. The Ohio Democratic Party has capitalized on this concept and built a technology super-center, as the 4th largest political venue in the Country. The ODP can narrow down demographics by community, by street, by household and target specific potential voters to contact. In the Mahoning Valley we are very resistant to change and the “old school” politics still prevail. But what many are slow to realize, while the old standard is still relevant; you do still need “ boots on the ground”, the new technology, available today, is not a replacement, but an enhancement. It is also an avenue to engage the next generation of voters, our youth, who are growing up knowing “only” technology. Technology is not only a way to eventually garner their vote but also to attract them to the political stage. As a new generation of public servants take the reign of Leadership in this Community, technology will become mainstream in Mahoning Valley politics. So what can the MCDP offer? That is simple: For Candidates that seek the Party’s endorsement , a mix of old school proven know-how and hightech ingenuity. As has been the case for generations, the capabilities of the MCDP to rally the troops, canvas the neighborhoods and put forth a good campaign is unmatched! But now, behind the scenes is a network that can do it smarter and with more precision. A network that can target where more effort is needed and where funds can be spent more wisely, thus giving our Candidates the best possible chance for a successful outcome.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE REAPPOINTS WASKO

On Wednesday, January 13th, the MCDP Executive Committee met to reappoint Robert Wasko to his third 4-year term on the Mahoning County Board of Elections. He was the only candidate to seek the appointment, Cynthia McWilson Mauzy withdrew her name prior to the meeting. In addition, Bill DeMora, from the ODP, offered clarification on a new policy from the Ohio Democratic Party, banning secret ballots. Much discussion ensued regarding the directive, initially issued by the Democratic National Committee, which orders County parties to no longer use secret written ballots for any votes, whether that be for filling replacements or for endorsements. The MCDP objects to the policy and voted to have Chairman Betras send a letter to the ODP noting the Party’s objection.

Bill Clinton campaigns in Valley for Governor Strickland

President Bill Clinton was guest of honor at a fundraising event for Governor Ted Strickland on January 5, 2010. The event was held at the home of Bruce and Rori Zoldan. Approximately 150 guest paid $1000/person to meet with and listen to President Clinton speak. In his address, he reiterated how important the Valley is to the Strickland campaign, the need to motivate the base of voters and that a strong turnout will be critical in the reelection of Gov. Strickland and the Democratic ticket. Chairman Betras has promised to work for an 80% turnout in the Valley for Governor Strickland. The importance of keeping Democrats in control of the State offices can not be understated. After the 2010 Census, the party in control of the appropriation board will redraw the Congressional Districts. This Valley could be seriously impacted by that redistricting process, since Ohio could loose 2 Congressional seats due to the loss of population in the State. The Fundraiser event concluded with an opportunity to take photos with President Clinton and a fireworks display.


Gov. Strickland and President Clinton	Chairman Betras, his wife, Pam, President Clinton and Bev Reyes	President Clinton addresses the crowd	Governor Strickland and State Senator Joe Schiavoni

Strickland chooses Lt. Governor, running mate

Governor Strickland has chosen a former Franklin County (Columbus area) juve-nile court judge as his Lt. Governor run-ning mate. Yvette McGee Brown is cur-rently the president of the Center for Child and Family Advocacy at the Na-tionwide Children’s Hospital, a non-profit geared toward preventing child abuse and domestic violence.

She grew up in Columbus, the daughter of a single teenage mother who worked 2 jobs to support her children and give them every opportunity in life to succeed.

At age 48 she will add gender and racial diversity to the ticket and figures to as-sist Strickland with the African-American vote, as well as independent, professional woman.

Ms. McGee Brown graduated from Columbus public schools, received her undergraduate de-gree in Journalism/Public Relations from Ohio University, and her juris Doctorate from The Ohio State University.

She serves on the Board of Directors of M/I Homes and Fifth Third Bank of Central Ohio. She is the Chair of the Ohio State University Alumni Assoc. Board of Directors.

She has been honored numerous times for her Community Service including the 2005 Distin-guished Service Award from The Ohio State University, the Champion of Children Award and the YWCA Woman of Achievement Award.

She is married, her husband is a public school teacher and she has 3 children.

Yvette McGee Brown, Candidate for Ohio Lt. Governor

Yvette McGee Brown
Candidate for Ohio
Lt. Governor

DEMS “HOOP IT UP” FOR LOCAL CHARITY

Local Dems participated in the 6th Annual Game of Hope Charity Basketball Classic at Beegley Center on the YSU campus. The game is organized to raise money for chronically and terminally ill children in the Valley, so they can enjoy experiences generally afforded to healthy children. The Event raised about $8000 this year. David Betras served as honorary team owner for Team Pegg, coached by Jeff Pegg (Northeast Ohio Educators’ Assoc.). Team members included: Mayor Jay Williams, state Senator Joe Schiavoni (D-33rd), and U.S.Rep. John Boccieri (D-16th). Ross Scianna (Antones) was the honorary owner for Team Graham, coached by Jim Graham (UAW Local 1112) with team members: U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan (D-17th), Ohio Attorney General, Richard Cordray, Dave Green (UAW Local 1714 )and John Landers (Boardman school board). Bob Hannon, CEO of the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, called the play by play. Team Pegg emerged the victor with a score: Team Pegg 59: Team Graham 49. The game was sponsored by the Hope Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.