STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -- Rain did not dampen the spirits of the 19 teams and 385 people who participated in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Strongsville event June 9-10 at Pat Catan Stadium.
More than $118,000 was raised to support the American Cancer Society's mission of saving lives from cancer. Funds raised help the American Cancer Society provide free information and support for people facing the disease today, and fund cancer research that will help protect future generations.
Hollie Strano, of WKYC-TV, emceed the event. She began the Opening Ceremony by welcoming everyone and praising the survivors for their strength and fight.
Mayor Tom Perciak was also there to help kick off the event. The mayor has attended every Relay For Life of Strongsville since its inception in 2013.
Debra Szekely, co-event lead, introduced the 2018 Honorary Survivor, Kayla Thomas, and the 2018 Honorary Caregiver, Ann Lukic.
Hollie Strano, WKYC TV, emceed the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Strongsville event that raised more than $118,000.
"Our teams this year have been amazing fundraisers and have been awesome in this fight to come together for today's Relay," said Jason Glover, co-event lead.
Theresa Wise, co-event lead, added, "Along with our teams, we couldn't have done this without the support of our numerous sponsors, including our Presenting and Platinum sponsors, Chick-Fil-A, Buffalo Wild Wings and Lamar Advertising"
The event included a Survivors' Lap, and each team had someone walk the track until 6 a.m. on Sunday. Food, games and entertainment -- including the band County Line -- kept participants and the public fully engaged throughout the day.
The following teams and individuals were recognized for their extraordinary efforts:
- Top Fundraising Team: Cancer Crushers (St. Joseph and St. John School eighth-grade class) raised over $55,000
- Top Fundraising Individual - Youth: Michael Lechler raised over $10,000
- Top Fundraising Individual - Adult: Andrea Moore raised over $5,000
Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in Washington in 1985, the Relay For Life movement is the world's largest fundraising event to save lives from cancer. Uniting communities across the globe, they celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and take action for lifesaving change.
During Relay For Life events, members of each team take turns walking or running around the track or path. Teams participate in fundraising in the months leading up to the event.
Donations can still be made by visiting RelayForLife.org/Strongsville.
Class of 1966: Most high school classes have reunions, but the Class of 1966 from Maple Heights High School is doing something a bit different. Instead of having a 50th class reunion two years ago, they are doing a Big Birthday Bash this year! Why? Because they are all turning 70! What better way to celebrate than to have a birthday with all of their old classmates?
As with any school, people have moved away, but many have stayed in the Cleveland area. The last reunion was held in 2001, so addresses have certainly changed. They need your help in tracking down anyone who graduated from Maple Heights High School in 1966.
If you are an alumnus, please join the fun. If you know a classmate, make sure to tell them about this "blast-from-the past" birthday party.
The Birthday Bash is going to be held from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at Brewster's Cafe Bistro Pub, 2681 Creekside Drive in Twinsburg.
The evening will consist of heavy hors d' oeuvres, live music and a cash bar. And, of course, birthday cake!
Cost is $30 person. Dress is casual. Contact Carol at 440-878-9625 for reservations -- checks only, please -- by Aug. 14. You can also visit classmates.com and Facebook.
The fun will continue throughout the whole weekend. There is a Maple Heights home football game on Friday, Sept. 14, and a tour of the new high school from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 16. Classmates can meet up with old friends and make new ones. They will all be 70 years old together and in good company!
Rib burnoff: Don't forget the Strongsville City Club's 32nd annual Rib Burn Off on June 21, 22 and 23 at the Commons. And as they say, "It's not the biggest ... just the best."
Live entertainment will accompany delicious ribs every night from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Plus, beer and wine will be for sale for the first time on The Commons.
Admission is $3, with free admission from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday. Kids 10 and younger will be admitted free. There will also be fun for the kids, with inflatables and more. Parking is free, with shuttles running every day.
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