Relay for Life team leaders kick up their heels (L to R) Susan
Johnson (Mary's Marchers), Molly Yoak (Heaven's Helpers), Sue
Oshoway (E-Lemonade-Ors), Tish Vannoy (Tish's Terminators), Jean
Simers (Bosom Buddies), Carlene Frederick (Pleasant Hill Crusaders)
By Barb McKown, Relay for Life Chairperson
It was a beautiful summer evening for the 2007 Calhoun County Relay for Life at Wayne Underwood Field in Grantsville.
Cancer survivors, family, friends and advocates, came together to join the fight against cancer.
The theme for 2007 was Operation Hope, with six teams participating in the fundraising: Bosom Buddies, Heaven's Helpers, E-Lemonade-Ors, Pleasant Hill Crusaders, Mary's Marchers, and Tish's Terminators.
Through generous contributions, the total amount raised for 2007 was $22.587.66. The team with the highest total was Heaven's Helpers from Minnie Hamilton Health System.
The 2007 Relay for Life Chair, Barbara McKown, welcomed everyone to the event, saying it was "an honor to be part of this wonderful experience."
For the opening lap, cancer survivors proudly walked the track. Family and caretakers joined them on the track and the Relay officially began.
Throughout the night, participants enjoyed walking, games, food and fellowship.
The highlight of the evening was the annual luminary ceremony, held as the night skies darkened. Candles were lit and the names of all those honored and remembered were read aloud.
As everyone took a moment to pause and remember, Briana Blankenship performed "Shine On Us" on the trumpet.
The ceremony was closed with prayer by Mrs. Terry Siers, followed by a silent lap around the Relay track.
Awards given throughout the night included Mr. Relay 2007, David Bugby; Best Campsite, E-Lemonade-Ors of Grantsville First Baptist Church; Spirit Award Pleasant Hill Crusaders; 1st Place Business, Heaven's Helpers; 1st Place Church, E-Lemonade-Ors, 2nd place, Pleasant Hill; 1st Place Family and friends, Bosom Buddies, 2nd place, Tish's Terminators and 3rd place, Mary's Marchers.
Special thanks go to: Calhoun County Wood Festival Committee; Jim, Colleen and Michael Sullivan; Leonard and Judy Powell; Art Bell; Jim Bell; Marissa Taylor; Ashley Barker; Larry Springston; Cub Scout Pack 436 and Relay teams and Committee members.
The 2007 Relay sponsors were: Grantsville Foodland, Calhoun Chronicle, Cain Oil and Gas, Houchin's Construction, Hur Herald, Minnie Hamilton Health System, Calhoun Banks, Roberta Hartshorn and 104.7 WVRC.
See Relay Brings Hope ... | 
