Relay for Life
Houston County Courier -  May 2009

Marla Campbell and Amanda Mask, co-chairmen of the Houston County Relay for Life thanked everyone who had a part in making the 2009 Relay a great success.
The event was held Friday, April 24 and raised $61,083 for the fight against cancer. 
This is the 7th year for the annual event in Houston County and the American Cancer Society is celebrating its 25th anniversary nationally.  
Attendance was great this year, teams and fundraisers were "camped out" around the entire football field.     
Relay was kicked off with 120 survivors and caregivers participating in the Survivor Lap.
They were then treated to dinner catered by Don Rafas Tex Mex.  Local talent provided entertainment throughout the night.  The Luminaria Ceremony was a very special time, over 800 luminaries were purchased "In Memory" and "In Honor" of those who have battled cancer.  Each name was read aloud making for a humbling experience, realizing how cancer has affected so many in our community.
There were 15 teams participating this year along with other school organizations and businesses.  Awards presented are as follows:
Most Money Raised by a Team - "Bahama Mama's" Lovelady
2nd Highest Money Raised by a Team - "Mashing Out Cancer"  ETMC
Rookie Team of the Year - "Links of Love" Latexo Community
Most Team Spirit - "Jen and Syd's Dog Gone Crew" Crockett Vet. Hospital
Best Campsite - "Mashing Out Cancer"  ETMC
School Organization Raising the Most Money - Lovelady FFA
Most Money Raised by an Individual - Carla Burdette $1,000
2nd Highest Money Raised by an Individual - Ricky Gentzel - $600
Ms. Campbell said, “This year was great and we want to make next year even better.  We are urging all school, civic and church organizations to get involved by having a team or a fundraising booth the night of the event.  Relay for Life 2010 will be the last Friday night in April.”