Chairman James Baugh will turn the reigns over to Tammi Ogletree for next year's relay.
Polk County Continues To Shine in Annual Relay For Life Event, LIVINGSTON, May 2, 2009 - More than 2,000 people turned out on Friday, May 1 - 2, 2009 for Polk County's annual Relay For Life fundraiser. Polk County continues to outdo itself year after year as the nation's 3rd largest Relay For Life event (Yes, Polk County has the 3rd largest RFL event in the U.S.A). This year a new county record was established as more money ($295,000) was raised than last year's record. Cancer survivor Dylan Burson cut purple ribbon to officially kick things off as survivors walked the first honorary lap. Later in the evening all lights were doused in a moment of silence as cancer survivors held glow sticks in the dark in their honor. Glow stick lights completely surrounded the walking track and was visible all around and served as a sobering reminder of the commonplace of cancer in our world. The evening came to roaring hilarity and laughter as Tammi Olgletree impersonated Ellen Degenerous in the Polk County Ellen Degenerous Show. The show had moments of intense laughter; Miss Polk County, Shelby Gonzalez and some guy (actually Mike Mayhugh) called Miss Relay put panty hose on their heads and tried (with no hands) to pull the hose off each other's heads. Other hilarious moments included a dance off, and blind folded musical chairs. To see much of the evenings festivities, be sure to click the video below for all the highlights. One notable moment came as event chairman James Baugh announced to the large crowd that this is his last year of being the event chairman and next year Tammi Ogletree will assume the duties of Polk County Relay for life event chairman. Baugh is a major reason why this event has become so successful in Polk County and PolkCountyToday.com wishes Baugh well in his future endeavors.
Luminaries serve to remind of those lost to cancer.
Tammi Ogletree (left) and James Baugh.
Dylan Burson (left) and Tammi Ogletree (Ellen).
Geekmaster JR (left) and Rowdy Rodney of KETX Radio
(L - R) Phillip Waller, Barbara Purvis, Sheriff Hammack, Perry Alexander
Sergeant Scott Paske.
Hot Dog eating contest
2009 Relay for Life Hotdog Eating Champ
(L - R) Trent, Willster, Jessie
(L - R) Ben Ogletree III, Danny Moseley, Tammi Ogletree
Rowdy Rodney cradles "Precious".
Ellen Degenerous (left) hosts a hilarious "Dance Off" competition.
Buddy Board Champs
(L - R) Miss Relay for Life, Miss Polk County Shelby Gonzalez, Ellen Degenerous (Tammi Ogletree)
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