The GAL Project continues its efforts to educate GALs and attorneys practicing Juvenile Law, along with the public, of the needs of children involved in the Juvenile Court. Attendees at the Juvenile Law Symposium on Friday, December 9, 2005, heard educational and thought-provoking presentations by State Representative Michael J. Skindell, 13th House District; Katherine Hunt Federle, Professor of Law, The Ohio State University College of Law and Director of the Justice for Children Project; Mark Witt, who is a Guardian ad Litem and a member of the GAL Project Advisory Committee; Honorable Kristin W. Sweeney, Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court Judge; Dennis Frinzl, P.A.-C, of OccuCenters; Judith Wood, LISW, of Bellflower Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse; Attorney Jefferson E. Liston of Columbus, Ohio; Dr. Thomas M. Evans and Dr. Joseph Konieczny from the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court Diagnostic Clinic.

On December 11, 2005, the ‘GAL’lop for Children, in its 5th year, was a success. Many eager children participated in the non-competitive children’s 1/2 mile run and walk, which started at 9:00 a.m. on the seasonal December morning. As always, the children were cheered on until they crossed the finish line and were presented with a bright red ribbon to congratulate them on their success. After greetings for a safe and speedy run by Judge Kristin Sweeney, hearty runners and walkers breezed through the 5k in pleasant conditions. At the finish, all runners and walkers were treated to hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies, not to mention nutritious fare at the Court before the awards ceremony. David Goodwin expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone for their participation. The most important part of the ‘GAL’lop is that many children received clothing, food, books, and holiday gifts due to the generosity of the ‘GAL’lop sponsors and participants.