Relay for Life Fall Festival is Saturday

The Bourbon County Relay for Life organization's 4th Annual Fall Festival is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at 2484 Limestone Road, the home of event co-organizer Lavetta Simmons.

The event is a key fundraiser for the organization and will feature a wide variety of games and activities for people of all ages. Proceeds from the event benefit the organization, which raises money for the American Cancer Society and it services, and The Sharing Bucket, a local nonprofit organization formed last year by a local cancer support group that provides emotional and financial assistance to cancer patients and their families.

About $4,800 was raised through last year's event -- money that is used for cancer research and education, and also to assist local cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and their family members with travel and medical expenses, and other costs.

"We've grown each year ... it's a fun event and we're trying to make it more fun," Simmons said.

The event will include attractions for the entire family, including a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, horseback riding, as well as various games and food items. Tickets for the

activities, as well as food and beverages, will be available at a cost of 50 cents each. Attendees will also be able to purchase tickets for a chance at winning various Fort Scott Community College attire, a University of Kansas blanket, a Kansas City Chiefs sleeved blanket, and other items.

"We try to make it family affordable and fun," Simmons said.

Each activity at the event is sponsored by one of several local Relay for Life teams that coordinate and conduct fundraisers each year to help raise money for the organization's goal.

A new addition to this year's event is the Cupcakes for Cancer fundraiser, which involves the sale of mugs designed by local potter Bobbi Kemna. The mugs are available in different shapes, sizes and colors and are filled with various items such as cupcakes, spoons dipped in chocolate, flowers, teas, and other items. Pre-ordered mugs are also personalized and include names and personal messages printed on the outer surface.

For more information, contact Simmons at (620) 224-8070.