DEMOPOLIS &8212; Just a few months ago, the Marengo County Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society was just a plan in the works, but after Friday&8217;s turnout at River Field and the help of 18 fundraising teams, the organization has $79,289 to show for their efforts.

The original fundraising goal for 2008 was set at $68,932, which was an increase of approximately $2,000 from the previous year&8217;s goal. Preliminary estimates show the top three fundraising teams were Rock-Tenn Company with $26,267 raised, Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital with $10,302 raised and Quest Club of Linden with $7,313 raised.

The jury is still out on the top fundraising individual, the most spirited team, best on-site fundraiser and best team campsites, which will be determined later with the input of participants.

At the event itself, more than 300 team members, survivors, supporters and members of the community came out to participate in the main event with the theme &8220;Songs of Cancer.&8221;

Jennifer Hallman, community representative, said the event was a success, but could not have happened without the help of dedicated helpers like the title sponsor Alabama Power Company &045; Greene County Steam Plant and other community partners.

Fundraising totals

Foster Farms &8212; $5,000

Westside Elementary School &8212; $4,256

Robertson Banking Company &8212; $2,797

Suttles Truck Leasing &8212; $2,513

Sweet Water State Bank &8212; $1,685

Demopolis High School Softball &8212; $1,433

Curves &8212; $1,221

Reach 2010 / Deep South Network &8212; $877

Demopolis High School Deca Club &8212; $823

Alabama Power – Greene County Steam Plant &8212; $817

Amedisys Home Health Services &8212; $525

Wal-Mart Super Center &8212; $341

River City Bike Association &8212; $200

U.S. Jones Elementary School &8212; $117

Regions Bank &8212; $111