Last week we told you about this Friday’s Relay for Life American Cancer Society fundraiser in Ellis County.  Saturday night it was Russell County’s turn.

Sheriff Deputy Sheriff Damien Morgenstern is the publicity chairman.  New this year, the community tailgate barbecue which drew about 200 people to the Russell High School parking lot.

“We had quite a few survivors, more than last year, and the barbecue turnout was awesome.  We’ll definitely do it again next year,” says Morgenstern.

The Relay itself was held inside Russell High School, where luminaries were set around around the basketball court.  Each bag was decorated to honor or remember someone battling cancer.

“We actually do fundraising all year round,” he says, “and we also have a special luncheon just for cancer survivors living in Russell County.”

Russell County Relay for Life far surpassed its goal of $30,000, with an unofficial total of $39,316.33 raised for the American Cancer Society.

Top 5 Teams
1. Pink Ninja’s $5,507.28
2. Fusc hia Fighters $3,888.73
3. U Must Believe $2,999.43
4. Russell Roustabouts $2,370.18
5. Badges Cuffin’ Cancer $1,751.43

Top 5 Individuals
1. James Thomson $1,144.30
2. Danielle Ewers $1,132.00
3. Kellie Donovan $$1,021.38
4. Damian Morgenstern $1,015.00
5. Brenda Roberts $889.00