May 09, 2007
Wednesday PM

Ketchikan Alaska - WalkAmerica, the walk to save babiessm, is taking place on May 5th starting at Alaskan And Proud. WalkAmerica supports the March of Dimes fight to save babies from premature birth ­ the leading killer of newborns ­ and from other serious threats to infant health.

"The babies in Ketchikan need our help," said Chris Ruecker, 2007 WalkAmerica Chair. "By being a part of WalkAmerica, we can help save babies and give hope to families. We can help give all babies the gift of a healthy start," he added. Last year, Ketchikan's Walk America event garnered more than $30,000.00 for the March of Dimes, the highest per capita donation rate of any walk of all of the communities that participate in America.

More than half a million babies are born too soon every year. Many die. More than 120,000 babies are born with serious birth defects that can mean a lifetime disability.

That's why WalkAmerica has been the country's best-loved walking event since its beginnings in 1970. As the first national walk, it has become the March of Dimes largest fundraiser. To date WalkAmerica has raised more than $1.7 billion takes place in 1,100 communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Now in its 37th year, WalkAmerica is expected to draw 1 million walkers. Overall, more than 7 million men, women and children will participate as sponsors, volunteers and walkers this year.

" Our goal this year is to beat the generous level ofdonations from last year" said Chris Ruecker of KTKN and Gateway Country. "Join me and the millions of compassionate people across the country who support WalkAmerica every year."

With Ketchikan's support in WalkAmerica, the March of Dimes conducts top-level research into causes and preventions of premature birth and birth defects. The March of Dimes also brings information and emotional support to families who have had a premature or sick baby who is being treated in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

WalkAmerica in Ketchikan will be a memorable and exciting day for the whole family.

To learn more about the Ketchikan WalkAmerica event, or to join the event which starts at the Alaskan & Proud Market on May 5th 2007, call KTKN at 225-2193, or register your team on line at www.ktkn.com .

Source of News:

Blake Messer General Manager
KIFW/KSBZ/KTKN/KGTW

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