Cancer survivors kick off fund-raiser at Beeghly Center

Cancer survivors kick offfund-raiser at Beeghly Center
Youngstown State University's Beeghly Center is the site of the first Relay for Life of 2006 for Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties. The American Cancer Society fund-raising event kicked off at 6 p.m. Friday and concludes today. Opening ceremonies included a first-lap walk by 100 cancer survivors led by YSU mascots Pete and Penny Penguin. Cancer survivors wore bright T-shirts and received a standing ovation from other participants as they walked. Above, one of the first groups of hundreds of walkers scheduled over 18 hours makes its way around the Beeghly Center track. At right, Lori Griffin of Youngstown checks with Matt Russo of Lowellville before the start of a talent show. Sherry Speziale of Austintown helps Russo with his costume. Friday's events also included a hamburger-eating contest. Story on B4.