DOVER-FOXCROFT - The annual March of Dimes WalkAmerica event for the Penquis region is scheduled this year for Sunday, May 7. This 3-mile walk has been held locally every year since 1975 and is one of two dozen planned throughout Maine to raise funds for March of Dimes' programs that save babies from birth defects, pre-term labor and low birthweight.
This year the Walk is moving from Guilford to Dover-Foxcroft, and the event will begin and end at Mayo Regional Hospital's Resource Center, on Dwelley Avenue behind the hospital. Ralph Gabarro, Mayo's Chief Executive Officer, is serving as honorary chairman of the event.
The Walk starts at 1 p.m. and follows a loop down Main, Essex, Lincoln, North and Park streets, and through Kiwanis Park to Mayo. Refreshments are served and prizes are awarded at the finish, at around 2 p.m.
Last year over 50 walkers participated and the event raised a total of $5,228 to help the March of Dimes. Walking teams represented Bangor Savings Bank, Mayo Regional Hospital, the Dexter Regional High School Key Club, Moosehead Manufacturing Co., Curves, Dexter Family Practice, and R.H. Foster in Guilford. The fundraising goal for this year's event is $6,200.
People interested in participating in WalkAmerica on May 7 are encouraged to contact Deb Stroud at Mayo Regional Hospital, 564-4293.