The United Way Estevan had its best opening day ever for its telethon.
This year's telethon, taking place at the Royal Canadian Legion's Estevan branch, received $136,640 in donations on Friday, the highest total ever for a Friday. The previous record of approximately $128,000 was set two years ago.
The telethon went on the air at 8 a.m. on Friday morning. Just before noon, employees from Tundra Energy Marketing Ltd. presented a cheque for $44,000 to president Travis Frank. The bulk of the money was raised during the annual Cooks that Cook fundraiser last Friday.
Several more large donations came in during the afternoon, including $15,000 from Torc Oil and Gas, $10,000 from Border Tank Rentals and $5,000 from Ed and Anita Smith.
The support pushed the United Way past the $100,000 mark just before 4 p.m.
The telethon has featured entertainment since it went on air. School students kept the crowd entertained in the morning and early afternoon. Performers such as the Drewitz School of Dance, the Forget-based Focal Point group and the pipes and drums band brought large crowds to the legion.
The Estevan Comprehensive School's Choir sang several songs, and was followed by students who are part of the school’s Footloose musical production. They performed several songs.
Additional entertainment took place Friday night. ECS students had their annual takeover during the overnight hours.
The telethon will continue until 5 p.m. on Saturday evening.
Proceeds will be directed towards the United Way's 15 member agencies and its community partners. The goal is $335,000.
The Mercury will have more details on the telethon tomorrow.
