A special memorial service and program for the Central Ohio community – The Show You Care Telethon – will take place from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday (Sept. 15) in Ohio Stadium. Sponsored by The Ohio State University, the American Red Cross and the Dispatch Family of Companies, the event is to recognize this week’s tragedies and to show support for the victims.

A program will begin at 1 p.m. and will include remarks by President William E. Kirwan, Governor Bob Taft and Mayor Michael Coleman, and other university and community dignitaries. The entire three-hour event will be televised live on WBNS-TV (Channel 10) and the Ohio News Network (ONN) and viewers will be able to call in to either station to pledge their financial support to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Parking in all campus lots and garages will be free and open to the public; free shuttle service will be provided from the Buckeye Lot, which is northwest of Jerome Schottenstein Center, to the Ohio Stadium.

The Red Cross is asking participants to sign pledge cards for blood or money donations. Those who donate $10 or more will receive an American flag. Donations of cash also will be accepted on site by the Red Cross to support the relief effort.

In addition, on the first night of classes, Ohio State will conduct a candlelight vigil for the university community at sundown Wednesday (Sept. 19) on the Oval. More information on the vigil to come.

WHAT: Show You Care Telethon, sponsored by The Ohio State University, the American Red Cross and the Dispatch Family of Companies.

WHEN: noon to 3 p.m., Saturday (Sept. 15), with the program beginning at 1 p.m.

WHY: To show support for the Central Ohioans affected by this week’s tragic events.