More than $65,000 raised by Relay for Life

POLSON — Two dozen teams turned out for last weekend's Relay for Life, raising $65,618.21, according to Relay for Life Chair Kathi Jacobson, while more money is expected to come in next week.

The annual event raises money for the American Cancer Society's research to combat cancer.

The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church team raised $8,551, earning them top spot. Second place was St. Luke Healthcare Network with $7,110.65. Third place went to Gull Printing/Edward Jones Investments with $5,610.

The top individual money winners were Holly Swafford of Gull Printing with $3,620, Penny Jarecki from Good Shepherd with $2,500 and Bruce Campbell, also from Good Shepherd with $1,720.

The team winners for spirit awards, based on participation in judging for the parade, tent site decorations, karaoke, Elvis impersonators, cake auctions and providing either an activity or helping with concessions were St. Joseph Medical Center, Western Montana Medical Clinic and First United Methodist Church of Polson.

Participants sold 1,365 luminaries — candles people purchase to honor those who have battled cancer.

John Bishop, 13, walked away with the most miles walked award. The Bishop Insurance team member trekked 50 miles throughout the night.