I have been asked to take part in 'Dancing Like the Stars,' a fundraiser benefitting the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Along with seven other local 'stars,' I will spend the next seven weeks learning to dance under the tutelage of the fine folks at Eddington's Back Door Dance Studio.

The performance is set to take place on March 9 at Husson's Gracie Theatre. All eight teams will take to the floor in an effort to impress the judges.

(If I were willing to fight fair, I'd include the names of the seven other competitors. I am not. You will see their names when you visit the fundraising page on the website. In the weeks to come, I'll probably make mention of some of the others. But right now? Nuh-uh.)

I've had my first lesson I'm learning the rumba and so far, so good. My partner/instructor is the graceful (and very patient) Kristy. Latin dancing is certainly outside of my comfort zone, but she's been great about easing me into things. Don't get me wrong; I'm clearly a naturally gifted dancer, but my powerful free-form movement needs to be harnessed into the framework of the rumba. We're well on our way.

However, there's more to victory than just dancing well. This is a fundraiser first and foremost, and so one thing must be made abundantly clear: First place can be bought. While the quality of our respective dancing is certainly important, the truth is that money talks.

Since I am admittedly shameless, I have chosen to take advantage of my position. See, I have an audience you, dear reader and I am taking my plea directly to you. If you'd like to support the Komen Foundation and this important cause (or if you just want me to win), please visit the Foundation's website at komenmaine.org. Click on the 'Dancing Like the Stars' link, and you'll be presented with the list of eight 'stars' (my name is easy to find; it's the first on the list). Every dollar donated is a 'Vote of Confidence' for me and my lovely and talented partner. Every dollar donated helps us get that much closer to a win. I'll be offering regular updates of my progress; frankly, you'll probably be sick of hearing about it when all is said and done.

All kidding aside, everyone involved will be working very hard and will certainly be worthy of your donation. It's all in good fun and for a good cause.

Vote early, vote often and vote for me.