'RELAY' RAISES $25,000
By Alex Davis Endeavor News

Paul and Virginia Travis of Emporium hold hands during the survivor's lap at Cameron County's 10th annual Relay for Life. Organizer Susan Babik announced that $25,000 was raised this year.

Low turnout for Cameron County's 10th annual Relay for Life didn't deter volunteers from their worthy mission: celebrating cancer survivors, remembering its victims and fighting against the disease.

In all, five teams of walkers and runners took in some $25,000 for the American Cancer Society during the 24-hour event last weekend at high school athletic facility. Funds go toward cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services.

"The weather was perfect," said Relay for Life spokesperson Susan Babik. "It was really a successful event, considering the drop-off to five teams this year."

WWJD Trackers of the First United Methodist Church of Emporium raised the most, bringing in some $7,500. Team captain Bibi Park topped all individuals by raising $1,200.

Other teams were Rainbows End I, Rainbows End II, Spirit Walkers and Josh N Around. Twenty seven cancer survivors took a lap around the track. Later, luminaries -- candlelit memorials inscribed with cancer victims' names -- lit the night sky.

Elk County resident Terry Dietrick, a cancer survivor, encouraged team members to continue their battle against the disease. He and two other organizers read a section of a poem entitled, "Remember, Celebrate, Fight Back."

Other events included a cake contest, tug-o-war, sponge toss, balloon popping contest, as well as a hula hoop, noisemaker, trick or treat and bike laps around the track.