Michael Flannery Party Sunday

The big community thank you for Michael Flannery, former WCPO-TV "9 On Your Kids Side" reporter, will be at 6:30 p.m. Sunday sat Crossroads Community Church, Oakley.

Flannery, 48, of Westwood, raised more than $1 million and helped at least 700 kids with special needs over five years at Channel 9. The segments were canceled when Channel 9 didn't renew his contract March 30.

"It's important to show how much Michael meant to the city. It's a huge loss not having someone to call when a child has a special need," says Beth Lockwood of Anderson Township. Her grandchildren were helped by Flannery.

Flannery told me today he still hasn't found a job. And he wants to thank everyone for their support, particularly to two people who sent him money. "I want people who sent me checks to know I got them. I do appreciate it," he says.

The 6:30 p.m. program is free and open to the public. Reservations for a 5 p.m. dinner with Flannery at the church ($10 aduilts, $4 children) can be made through Friday by contacting Debbie Baker from the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati at 513-761-5400, or by e-mail, debbie@dsagc.com.