Gests lined up to see football players from The Ohio State University, including former Glenville stars Troy Smith and Ted Ginn Jr., at the fourth annual Cornerstone of Hope Benefit Gala at Embassy Suites in Independence.

Local celebrities such as NewsChannel 5 anchor Alicia Booth and Cleveland Browns general manager Phil Savage and quarterback Charlie Frye also turned out for the event. Guests had the opportunity to bid on a variety of live and silent auction items, including a meal at home for 20 people prepared by Fahrenheit chef Rocco Whalen and season tickets for Ohio State Buckeyes football. The event was emceed by Kim Scott. She filled in for 19 Action News anchor Denise Dufala, who had given birth to a son earlier in the week.

 

Dinner for the 750 people in attendance included bistro salad, honey thyme salmon, petit filet with hunter sauce and a dessert of chocolate terrine with a fresh fruit accent. The meal was prepared by Embassy Suites executive chef Jarred Johnson.

 

Sen. Sherrod Brown and his wife, Plain Dealer columnist Connie Schultz, snuck into their seats just in time to hear testimonials on how the organization, which is dedicated to providing support, education and hope to the grieving, has helped those dealing with losing a loved one. The event raised $250,000 for Cornerstone of Hope.