Spring Fling returns, raises over $47,000 for ACS Relay for Life
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After having to cancel events the last two years, the Flower Children team of the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life hosted its 20th annual Spring Fling Saturday.

Palmyra’s largest charity fundraiser, the Flower Children’s Spring Fling was back from a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Over 300 people attended the the event at the American Legion Hall to enjoy a dinner and take part in an auction that raised more than $47,000.
Over 300 people attended the event held at the American Legion Hall – Post #174 in Palmyra.
The night’s activities included dinner, raffles, silent and live auctions as well as a chance for those in attendance to help celebrate 20 years of Spring Fling.
Due to the overwhelming generosity once again of the Palmyra, Hannibal, Quincy and surrounding communities through donations and sponsorship of the “Spring Fling” activities, the support of those attending, and the hard work of the team members and volunteers, the event raised over $47,000 for the American Cancer Society.
“Special thanks go out from The Flower Children to all who make this event a fun-filled and rewarding evening each and every year,” said Mark Bross, the team captain.
H.A.T.S. Restaurant of Palmyra catered the dinner, and George Keller once again conducted the live auction.
It was an evening filled with a festive atmosphere of giving and fun with games, prizes, and chance to support Relay For Life and those affected by cancer.
Local and regional merchants along with several individuals donated over 300 items for both the live and silent auctions.
Items ranged from ticket packages for major sporting events such as NASCAR, Chiefs, Cardinals, and Royals games to certificates for hotel packages and Branson shows.

One of the items auctioned off was a painting done during the event by Steven Walker, a local artist.
A hall bench, donated by Dr. Bill and Sharon Wommack, a bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle (Pappy’s) bourbon donated by Niemann Foods/County
Market, a Henry Golden Boy 22mag rifle donated by David and Cheryl Damron, and an original painting done on site by local artist, Stephen Walker, were just a few more of the auction items, which also included household necessities, gift certificates for meals and services, auto care products, as well as, furniture and hand-crafted items and unique, one of a kind wood-working creations.
A unique feature at this year’s Spring Fling was the chance to win a Pink CZ Bezel and a Mother of Pearl Bezel on a 20” Mesh Necklace valued at $700 which was donated once again by Donna Heiser and Crescent Jewelry Company of Hannibal.
Throughout the evening, individuals could purchase a raffle cup and place their name in the drawing.
Those raffle cups could be filled with “special drinks” donated by El Nopal Mexican Restaurant.
Later in the evening, the winning name was drawn, and Cheryl Schutte was the excited winner.
Donna Heiser, who was in attendance, was given a special round of applause for this donation.
During the social hour and dinner, a silent auction was held featuring several items donated by various businesses and individuals.
The silent auction groupings offered attendees more than 25 different chances to purchase quality merchandise and services from numerous donating organizations and individuals.
Those participating in the silent auction had a lot of fun upping the high bid on the items after seeing their previous bid being outdone.
ARAMARK Laundry of Quincy provided the linens for the tables which were decorated with 25 donated centerpieces from Flowers For You of Palmyra.
Spring Fling sponsors also included the American Cancer Society; Lewis & Marion County Cattlemen and Ken Disselhorst; A & S Printing Service (Palmyra & Monroe City): Bud’s Paint & Body, Exchange Bank of NE Missouri, HOMEBANK, Mercantile Bank, Palmyra Spectator, Palmyra Booster Club, all of Palmyra; Popp’n on Maine, Refreshment Services Pepsi, and Quincy Herald-Whig, all of Quincy; and Iva’s Printing & KHMO of Hannibal.
“Their contributions helped to make the night a huge success,” Bross said.
Those unable to attend the Spring Fling and would like to make a contribution to The Flower Children and the ACS, should contact Mark Bross at 573-769-2365 or log-on the internet to www.relayforlife.org/marioncomo and click the “Donate” icon at the top of the page.
Enter “The Flower Children” in the “Search by participant or team” box, click search, click the link for “Team: The Flower Children,” and follow the instructions to complete your donation.