The weather was just about perfect for the 17th annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Moniteau County 2017.
The big event, which began June 9 and went to the wee hours of June 10, was held at the Tipton High School football/track facility. The event was reported to have brought in nearly $65,000 for cancer research.
Although the Survivor Registration and Silent Auction began at 6 p.m., the actual event began with the welcome by Peggy Richardson, the American Flag was presented by the Cub Scouts, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The national anthem was sung by Taylor Allee, Miss Tipton 2017, and her mother Kandice Allee. A prayer was given by Richardson.
The Paint the Town Purple winner recognition followed. The week prior to the Relay, the color purple was on display everywhere as store fronts on Business Highway 50 and other areas of California, Tipton and Moniteau County showed support for Relay For Life. Recognition was given to the top three winning businesses from both Tipton and California. Tipton winners were: 1st - Bolinger Veterinary Services; 2nd - Bobby Medlin Group; and 3rd - Dave's Country Market. California winners were: 1st - Commerce Bank; 2nd - Jeanne B's; and 3rd - Hawthorn Bank.
The Live Dessert Auction, with a variety of pies, cakes, cookies and cupcakes, was conducted by Greg Bolinger. Desserts auctioned included a blueberry cheesecake - $75, an apple pie - $25, a Snickers Bar cake - $65, 34 homemade cupcakes -$85 and many more.
Peggy Richardson commented that when she was first contacted about speaking before the group, she didn't immediately respond. She didn't feel worthy to give the main address, since " I've never been diagnosed with cancer and I pray to God I never am." She went on to talk about how cancer has affected her, since several family members have died of cancer and others have been successfully treated. She said those diagnosed with cancer have in common that they are strong and never give up. They've also learned how to be thankful. She spoke of how the community joins in fundraisers to provide money for research. She said that last year, there was $406 million provided for research, of which $7.6 million went to Missouri hospitals and medical researchers. Richardson said that many diseases are considered incurable, but finally some kind of treatment is finally discovered. She mentioned diphtheria, smallpox and more. She finished by saying, "The goal is to write the word 'Gone' to cancer. Today, you are our heroes.
Following these words of encouragement, the survivors and caregivers lined up and proceeded in taking a lap around the track, while carrying balloons. After the lap, they lined up and all released the balloons together to the applause of the crowd. Following the balloon release, the teams each gathered and did lap parades around the track. Food and games at the various booths kept many busy for a time. The Recognition Ceremony was followed, after dark, by the Luminaria Ceremony. About 11 p.m., there was the Whack a Bottle and Balloon Pop, followed by a Donut Game, and then, just before midnight, a Caffeine Bar. There was at midnight, a Toilet paper Fashion Show, with closing cermony at 1:30 a.m.