Organizers say hunger walk a big success
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on March 27, 2007 1:52 PM
Organizers of the 24th Annual Walk for Hunger called Sunday's event a success.
Elaine Lamb, secretary-treasurer of United Church Ministries, which sponsors the fundraiser, said 214 people participated in the walk, which began and ended at Herman Park.
People from 24 member churches as well as individuals and volunteers took part, with several completing the event in record time.
Doug Johnson Jr. from Jefferson United Methodist Church, ran the four-and-one-half-mile distance in 31.5 minutes. Another runner, Drew Musselman from Stoney Creek Free Will Baptist Church, completed the course in 43 minutes.
The walker who crossed the finish line first was Jeanne Speight of Stoney Creek, who completed it in 57 minutes. Glenn Pate of Mount Carmel United Methodist Church, was a close second, at 58 minutes.
Two youth also walked this year, Ms. Lamb said. Elliott Bailey-Wills and Conner Vance, both from First Free Will Baptist Church, finished in 52 minutes.
The amount of money raised by the walk will be announced once all the donations are collected.
The event is United Church Ministries only fundraiser during the year and is used for those who qualify for help with medical needs, rent, utilities or other areas deemed necessary.
Ms. Lamb thanked all who participated or donated to the cause.
"It was the most beautiful day we have had for a walk. The weather was perfect," she said. "It was well organized -- Terry Johnson, walk chairman, did a very good job.
"It was just a great day for it and we appreciate all the participation of everyone."