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Searcy to serve as March of Dimes honorary chair

By Rose Hooper
Searcy"

Searcy

 Sylva native and Hollywood movie star Nick Searcy will serve as honorary chairperson for Jackson County WalkAmerica 2001, according to March of Dimes Community Director Bunny Wilson.

Searcy, who can currently be seen in the movie "Cast Away" with Tom Hanks, is the son of Jim and Marie Searcy of Sylva. His other film credits include "Fried Green Tomatoes" and "The Fugitive."

Joe Smith, physical education teacher at Fairview Elementary School, will be this year's WalkAmerica chairman. This is his second year to serve as chairman of the Jackson County's steering committee. Under his leadership last year, the campaign raised almost 50 percent more than its goal, with a total near $15,000. This year's goal is $16,000.

"This is very personal to Joe," said Wilson. "His grandson, Justin Elliot, son of Lisa and Joey Elliot, is the Jackson County WalkAmerica ambassador child for 2001. He has taken the mission of the March of Dimes to prevent birth defects and reduce infant mortality to heart."

In addition to Searcy, Smith and the Elliots, the Jackson County steering committee consists of Lisa Ashe, Connie Brooks, Michele Garashi, Brandy Green, Karen Green, Ann Hall, Frances Hess, Becky Lindsey, Janice McMichael, Kim Nickols, Tami Norris, Lee and Leeann Slagle, Linda Smith, Tim Welch and DeAnna Wright.

The Jackson County WalkAmerica will be held on Saturday, April 21, beginning at 10 a.m. in the First Union parking lot in downtown Sylva. Registration begins at 9 a.m.

To become a WalkAmerica team or sponsor, call Smith at 586-2819.

Back to Archive: 03/29/01.