County cancer relay nets a whopping $40,000 years ago
Staff reporter
The weather couldn't have been more perfect Friday evening when 237 walkers took to the track at Warrior Stadium, Marion.
The annual Marion County Relay For Life event raised more than anticipated with a record-breaking $40,000 net in donations to the American Cancer Society. The goal was $34,000.
"There were no fewer than 16 walkers on the track at any given time," Peggy Blackman, event chairman, said.
The event was from 7 p.m. Friday until 7 a.m. Saturday.
A meal was served for survivors and participants. Boy Scouts Weeblos Den 1 Pack 102 raised the American flag while the National Anthem was played.
The event started with a survivors lap. Survivors of all ages took to the track for a victory lap and were led by Norma Hannaford and Jim Helfer, both of Marion.
The 102-year-old Hannaford has been cancer-free for 47 years and Helfer, who is 90, has survived for four years.
The top three fund-raising teams were Wheeler's Walkers, Marion, more than $5,000; Busy Bees, Hillsboro, $2,200; and Florence Crossroads, $1,700.
Individual winners were Phyllis Kreutziger, Marion, who raised $1,400; and Marge Sandwell, Marion, $1,100.
During the evening, musical entertainment was provided by Aulne United Methodist Church Ladies Trio and Valley United Methodist Church Praise Team.
At 10 p.m. 1,666 names were read that were represented by a luminaria in honor and memory of those who have suffered or died from cancer.
Pizza Hut of Marion provided pizza at midnight.
Vogt's Hometown Market and Dale's Supermarket, both of Hillsboro, provided soft drinks and water to participants.
At 6 a.m., Happy Hustlers 4-H Club served breakfast that was provided by Marion Kiwanis Club and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.
The event ended at 7 a.m.
Various drawings were held during the evening. Karen Kline of Marion, won the Relay for Life Quilt, made by Marie Kessler of Hillsboro.
The grand prize drawing of two round-trip airline tickets to anywhere in the U.S., valued at $1,000, was won by Sherri Bowlby, Wichita, who was a walker with Jo Babes of Hillsboro.
Blackman said she was pleased with the overall outcome.
Anyone interested in becoming a committee member to help plan next year's relay, should call Blackman at (620) 382-2541, or Phyllis Kreutziger at (620) 382-2215.
