A scorching hot Friday didn't prevent American Cancer Society members and cancer survivors from rallying at Pineville Square for the American Cancer Society Festival to raise awareness about reducing cancer and to raise money to fight the disease.
"This year, rather than having the relay for life, we decided to have the festival format," said Patty Johnson, chair of the planning committee for the event. "Our goal this year is to raise $17,000."
Johnson welcomed everyone and introduced the committee members. She said the following dedicated committee members work very hard on the annual event year after year to fight cancer:
• Samantha Williams - entertainment
• Tracy Hole - kids corner
• Brian Hole - car show
• Sarena Huffman - raffle
• Debbie Serr - registration and survivor activities
• Scott Johnson - accounting and concessions.
There were about a dozen cancer survivors present at the event who were treated to free chicken dinners. Barkin' Pig BBQ of Anderson smoked the chicken which was donated by Tyson Foods at Noel.
The side dishes were donated by Iron Works Church and First Baptist Church of Southwest City, as well as Southwest City Senior Center, Leigh Taylor, Martie Novak. The hot rolls were donated by Kenny Underwood.
The McDonald County Drug Free Student Scholarship Foundation helped fill all the meal orders, Scott Johnson said.
There were several activities for both adults and children: a car show, raffle, music, and a kid's corner with face painting, cotton candy and games.
Winners of the car show were:
• James Cole, Cassville - 1975 Chevrolet Corvette - first place
• Larry Malone, Bentonville, Ark. - 1971 Chevrolet C-10 pickup - second place
• Andy Cleveland, Bella Vista, Ark. - 2010 Chevrolet Camaro - third place.
O'Reilly Auto Parts of Anderson provided tool kit prizes and gift cards. Trophies were provided by Brian's Custom Paint in Anderson.
The McDonald County Historical Society opened the Historical Museum at the square for festival attendees, offering both the current featured traveling exhibit "100 Years of Fashion," and a welcome cool respite from the summer heat outside.
"Anyone who wants to get involved for our event next year," Patty Johnson said, "and for donations can call Community Manager Aimee Short in Springfield at 417-447-1472, or email [email protected]." Donations can be made by going to acsfest.org/mcdonaldco.
Community on 06/23/2016