CASHING in on another pot of gold was the Women Against MS luncheon, “Dignity, Grace, and Fortitude,” Thursday at Gladieux Meadows to benefit the Northwestern Ohio Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Chairman of the annual WAMS luncheon, Suzanne Carroll Witherell of the Jazz Brunch on 101.5 WRVF The River, is a treasure herself. She struggles with MS herself and strives to help others while supporting the search for a cure. Mrs. Witherell said that “200 people are diagnosed every week in this country with MS.”

Echoing Mrs. Witherell's words was guest speaker, Cay Stout. Mrs. Stout, Mrs. Ohio 2006, knows what it is all about. Her husband, Doug, died of Lou Gehrig's Disease, another debilitating illness. So why at his time of need, did Mrs. Stout become Mrs. Ohio? Simple. To honor his legacy and to have a platform from which to advocate for people with disabilities.

Mrs. Stout was presented with a Key to the City by Toledo First Lady Amy Finkbeiner. Commissioner Ben Konop proclaimed this month as National MS Month in Lucas County.

Board chairman Anita Voveris is all smiles because the event, which lured nearly 300 to attend, is expected to exceed last year's net of $20,000.