Walkers brave cold for fundraiser

By WAYNE QUESENBERRY/Staff

Despite the cold, dreary weather Saturday, the 2009 March for Babies by the Wythe-Bland Chapter of the March of Dimes was deemed a success. The local event raised $16,000 for the national organization with more expected from upcoming WonderWalks by area school children.
“I think it was very successful,” stated co-chairman Patty Thomas. “I was very pleased. We didn’t do some of the planned activities because of the cold.”
Thomas’ team from Wythe County Community Hospital was the top money raiser among this year’s 15 teams. The team from Lowe’s of Wytheville was in second place.
For the 19th consecutive year, Patty U. Hall was the individual raising the most money. She walked on the Lowe’s of Wytheville team.
Last year’s March for Babies netted $28,000.
“We had expected the amount to be down,” added co-chairman Nancy Pack. “With the economy like it is, we are pleased with the money raised. It’s still not too late to donate. Any amount received before the end of December will be included in this year’s walk.”
Pack’s team, the George Wythe High School Class of 1975, was one of the two new teams this year. The other was Anders Evolution Salon.
According to Pack, her class organized a team in honor of one child and in memory of another. This year’s ambassador, 17-month-old Bryson Stoots of Austinville, is the grandson of classmate, Susan Tarter Blair. The team also walked in memory of the grandson of Dreama Scott Long.
“We’ve always been a close class,” noted Pack. “We pull together.”
Providing free food for the event was Atmos Energy. There were hamburgers and hot dogs prepared on the grill, homemade chili, all the other fixings, chips, coffee and hot cider.
“The food was wonderful,” Thomas pointed out. “Atmos had a big grill and fixed all the food for us. We really appreciate it.”
A variety of soft drinks were donated by the Pepsi company. Several prizes were donated for a silent auction including two Virginia Tech footballs autographed by Coach Frank Beamer.
“The cake walk was a big hit, too,” Thomas added. “We appreciate the town leaving a tent up for us. It was a big help.”
To recognize Fire Prevention Month, the Wytheville Fire Department had firemen and equipment onsite in Withers Park. The department gave away goody bags, cups, coloring books and candy.
“We especially want to thank Dr. Anita Henley for being our honorary chairman this year,” Thomas commented. “She brought a lot to the event.”
Nikki Austin Hicks, community director for the regional March of Dimes, added, “We thank everyone who helped make our March for Babies such a success.”
Wayne Quesenberry can be reached at 228-6611 or .