By By MARY-ALLISON LANCASTER – Managing editor
From kissing booths to celebrating New Years every hour, Relay for Life was a holiday-themed success, with committee members announcing that this year's event exceeded its $58,000 goal.
With last minute tallying, Chairman Paula Gerety announced that this year's event raised $58,373.71
Saturday's event began at 11 a.m. with the Survivor's Luncheon followed by welcomes from Jeff Kirkland, Southern Pine title sponsor; Ginger Caylor, American Cancer Society community representative; and Mayor Ted Jennings.
Becki Reynolds, a survivor, stressed the importance of how events such as Relay help survivors like her continue to live.
Fourteen teams participated in this year's Relay. The Escambia County Helpers was one of the new teams this year. They dedicated their booth to Carla Redfearn's mother, Christine Mallard, who succumbed to cancer and was buried March 6. Saturday was a special day for Redfearn and her family members.
For the first time in three years, Relay was held outside on the grounds of the Brewton YMCA.
This year's Relay was truly event that paid off. Here's a wrap-up of the day's events:
The awards ceremony was held at 11:30 p.m. The following individuals took home team awards: