Claiborne County joined together by the hundreds of to raise more than $42,000 in support of the March of Dimes fight to save babies from premature birth - the leading killer of newborns - and other serious threats to infant health. This is a record amount for Claiborne County. As the March of Dimes biggest annual fund-raiser, WalkAmerica helps support the innovative research and programs needed to find out what causes prematurity and how it can be prevented.

"I am proud that Claiborne County joined the millions of compassionate people across the country that support WalkAmerica every year," said Vickie Oakes, WalkAmerica Chair. "I know we can make difference by giving hope to families. We can help give all babies the gift of a healthy start," Oakes said.

Babies are in serious need of help. 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 of disability. With the money raised in WalkAmerica, the March of Dimes is working to save babies from premature birth and birth defects through top-level research into causes and preventions. 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).

In Claiborne County WalkAmerica was an exciting event featuring warm-up line dancing 30 minutes prior to the walk, door prizes, food and recognition of the top walkers and teams. Caleb Nunn Team set a new record in Claiborne County raising $12,491.

The following teams were recognized:

Company Teams/Amount

England $9,344

First Century Bank $6,365

Commercial Bank $2,232

Citizens Bank $1848

Home Federal Bank $971

Farmers Insurance $215

PJ's Salon $121

Schools

Springdale Elementary $5,001

Claiborne High School $4,037

Midway Elementary $1,067

Family Team

Caleb Nunn Team $12,491 (Top Team Overall)

Top Walkers

Anna Pearson (Springdale Elementary)

$2,666

Dorsia McVey (First Century Bank)

$2,200

Janet Collins (First Century Bank)

$1,340

In 2007, National WalkAmerica Sponsors are CIGNA, Continental Airlines, Famous Footwear, Farmers, FedEx and Kmart, the March of Dimes number one corporate partner who has raised more than $55.5 million to save babies. Additional national sponsorship is provided by Discovery Health, Grain Foods Foundation, Mead Johnson Nutritionals and Outdoor Services. State Farm is a statewide sponsor this year in Tennessee.

"We are proud to be sponsored locally by England, First Century Bank, Commercial Bank, Home Federal Bank, and Citizens Bank," Oakes said.

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

For more information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org for Spanish.