If you are from the state of Kentucky, then you know how important it is to celebrate the “Run for the Roses” each year during the Derby. This year, employees of First Southern National Bank in Russellville, took the celebration one step further and raised $1,200 for their American Cancer Society 2013 Relay for Life team.
Although the actual Relay for Life event does not happen until June 14th at the Logan County High School football field, Relay teams are in full swing around the county trying to raise money before the event takes place. First Southern National Bank, formerly Citizens National Bank, has had a team in the Logan County Relay for Life since its beginning close to two decades ago.
“We had such a good time during this fundraising event,” said Debbie York, operations specialist at First Southern National Bank, and a 13 year cancer survivor. “The Relay is so very important. When my niece and nephew have children of their own, I want them to be able to ask what is cancer, because it no longer exists. I don’t want them to have to experience what I and many others have gone through. We can beat this if we all ban together and fight,” said York.
The fundraiser was held Thursday, May 2 at 7:45 a.m. on the square in Russellville. All the gentlemen employees of the bank were equip with a stick horse and ran around the square for donations made. Some donations allowed racers to move ahead depending on the amount raised, while others had to start back making them catch up.
Steve Stuart won the race with his horse “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy.”
The women of First Southern not only named the horses for the men matching each personality, but they also wore “Derby” hats which were judged. Betty Lou Wright took first place.
“Everyone had so much fun and we helped raise money for such a good cause. This is the best event we have ever done,” said York. “We are definitely going to do this again next year as well.”
York said everyone at the bank is on the team, even though not all will walk at the Relay event. “Everyone here helps. They all care so much and participate in all of our fundraisers. I can’t say enough about them all. They are wonderful people,” said York.
Derby Pies were made for consumption that day, however, the bank ended up having so many they put them up for sale, which drew a lot of money.
Nathan Thompson’s won best dressed with Keith Cox coming in second as Crawdaddy. Alex Keltner, Rusty Clark and Bryan Fuller were the three big runners, however their donors decided to send them backwards.



















