By JIM LANGHAM

Feature Writer

PAYNE — Those involved with the 34th annual 24-hour Basketball Marathon have nothing but praise for the community effort in raising $9,200 in this year's event which was held once again at the Payne Elementary School. All money profited from the event will go to assist the efforts of the Paulding County Society for Crippled Children and Adults.

Of that amount, $750 came from a special donation from Thrivent Financial Services and $500 was donated by a special fund-raising project held by Defiance Metal Products.

Society official Marcia Pressler noted that the local society is based on an all volunteer corps and meets in any public building that will extend a welcome for usage for meetings. The society majors in speech, occupational and physical therapy, some assistance with medications, various educational seminars and mileage.

“This year's event was one of the smoothest running events in many years,” said Chad Benschneider, one of the leaders in spearheading the event. “This was a very good year for the society. The money will be put to good use among those with need that are touched by the efforts of the society.”