Joann Nemechek, right, of McCook and John Fox of Culbertson, members of the Multiple Sclerosis Support Group in McCook stand next to a banner, fashioned by Sarah Rippen of McCook Lettering, listing bronze, silver and gold donors to the MS 2008 Walk at Norris Park June 7. [Click to enlarge]

More than 70 walkers raised a record $5,000 for the National Muscular Sclerosis Society June 7 in Norris Park. Walkers came not only from McCook but from Culbertson, Trenton, Ogallala, North Platte, Hastings, Lincoln and Omaha, thrilling organizer Joann Nemechek. "We had so many new walkers this year, It was just great." Funds will be used for research and support, with 60 percent of the proceeds remaining in the community, assisting those afflicted with MS and their caregivers.

Howard and Janet Kool with Mobility Motoring brought a mobility vehicle to the park and Paul Schaffert of Indianola discussed the benefits of the Far Infrared Health Club Sauna.

Participants also had the opportunity to meet the new station manager at KNGN Good News Christian Radio, Adam Spanier.

"People really enjoyed meeting Adam and listening to the music," said Nemechek. A repeat appearance is already planned for next year.

Community support was high this year, with all three flower shops in McCook offering live blooming plants and a drawing for $100 in meat provided by Cal Siegfried, Scott Carlan and Lee Hoyt with Willow Creek Meats and Mobility Motoring.

The motto provided by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society states "MS stops people from moving. We exist to make sure it doesn't." For more information on MS contact the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at (800) 344-4867 or visit nationalMSsociety.org. For information on the local support group that meets at 7 p.m., on the first Monday of each month at 502 Missouri Avenue Circle, contact Nemechek at (308) 345-6816 or Fox at (308) 278-2165.