BOUNTIFUL -- Rain and wind didn't seem to daunt walkers and runners in the second annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Friday evening.
The event kept the Bountiful High School track "hopping"through the wee hours of the morning, wrapping up mid-morning. With the goal of raising funds and awareness to fight cancer, $28,500 was raised by more than 200 participants on 18 teams.
The Davis County Clipper was a "community partner" for the event, which drew volunteers. young and old, as well as a highlight of about 50 cancer survivors. A couple were in wheelchairs, covering all ages from young children to senior citizens. Most survivors were able to walk the traditional lap to kick off the Relay for Life, Friday evening.
"It was so humbling to see these people coming out to share their strength to give strength and hope to others,"said Pam Sessions, chairperson of the Survivors Committee.
It was as though the wind and rain tried to snuff out the traditional luminarias, lit in honor of the survivors -- but, while some were extinguished, others kept burning.
"It was an honor to be involved in such a worthy cause," said Clipper Publisher R. Gail Stahle, who was a relay participant Friday night.
Teams represented different businesses and groups. Members took turns walking or running one-two laps. For example, Paige Morse, the Clipper's production supervisor and team captain, took the 3 a.m.-5 a.m. shift, Saturday morning.
Tents were set up at the south end of the track for the various teams. A potluck dinner was served Friday evening. To help motivate participants, a master of ceremonies played music and karaoke continued through the evening, provided by John Edison and Gardell Grundvig.
Many joined hands in volunteering to make the event a success.
Among Friday evening events and groups volunteering were:music for the Wellness Village provided by Nice &Easy; Survivors' Reception, by Red Flame Catering with Lori Giovannoni as guest speaker; opening ceremonies flag ceremony by Boy Scouts from the North Salt Lake Parkway Stake.
The Tappin' Grannies performed, along with Strictly Business and On Stage Productions, while the luminaria ceremony featured Richard Siddoway, well-known local author and performers June Allred and Judy Terry.
A Kids' Pajama Parade included rockets, games and movies.
Saturday events included a pancake breakfast provided by the Lions Club, coffee by Millcreek Coffee, music by Nice &Easy.
John Buist, Clipper CFO, oversaw public relations for the event.
In Layton, meanwhile, the walk raised more than $30,000 and involved about 300 participants.