NEWPORT-Money continues to come in for Cocke County Relay for Life 2008's campaign to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.

As of Monday night, the total topped $131,000, which far exceeds the $108,000 goal set for Cocke County by the ACS. "They set our goal according to what we raised last year," said local chair Jennifer Smith-Eisenhower. "Last year Cocke County raised over $116,000."

"This phenomenal success just shows what the people of Cocke County can do as a community working together," continued Eisenhower. "Even with the struggling economy, people poured out extra dollars for our efforts."

Eisenhower quickly credited the dedicated work of 58 Relay for Life teams across the county who worked for months raising money through various activities, entertainments, and other fundraising drives.

"I can't say enough about the different committee members," she added. "Cocke County is so blessed to have a committee willing to put in the many, many hours needed for a successful campaign."

A flurry of thunderstorms dampened but didn't destroy the Cocke County Relay for Life 2008 celebration held Friday and Saturday at Cocke County A & I Fairgrounds.

Hundreds of people gathered there late Friday afternoon for the opening ceremonies, which included remarks by Newport Mayor Connie Ball and Cocke County Mayor Iliff McMahan, Jr. Parrottsville Mayor Ronnie Hommel was unable to attend because of a family graduation commitment.

Ball said, "Until you have been touched by this dreaded disease, you don't know what Relay for Life means. This good turnout shows what the people of Cocke County can do when they come together for a good cause."

McMahan echoed Ball's remarks, referring to both his mother and mother-in-law, both of whom are cancer survivors. "I am thrilled to be here this evening and rejoice in this great event."

Following a stirring rendition of "The National Anthem" by Parrottsville Trio members Liz Talley, Betty Smith, and Polly Ottinger, dozens of cancer survivors were individually introduced and presented with medallions.

The survivors then kicked off twenty-four hours of activities by joining together for the Survivors Walk, the first lap around the fairground's walking track. The second lap was made by members of the Cocke County Relay for Life committee, after which the 58 teams were introduced and joined the walkers.

As skies darkened, 1,087 luminaries, purchased in honor of cancer survivors and in memory of those who lost their battles with the disease, were lighted as the names of those for whom the lighted candles were read.

With thunder from the approaching storms growing steadily louder, Eisenhower sang "Surely the Presence" and children from First United Methodist Church sang "Go Light Your World."

Fireworks at midnight added to the festivities.

Saturday's events included music by local groups, beauty pageants for ages 0-21, a womanless beauty pageant, elementary school field events, cake walks, and other games.

Committee members will gather sometime within the next two weeks to review this year's event and begin to lay plans for next year's efforts.

"Cancer doesn't sleep, and neither do we," said Eisenhower, in explaining the group's dedication to their work. "As long as there is cancer, we'll have Relay."