Local
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3/12/2013 7:17 PM
by Rebecca Turco
BECKLEY - A fundraiser in memory of a former Park Middle School student who died one year ago Tuesday raised $1,609.
Park Middle School hosted a Hoops and Jump Rope for Heart event in honor of Maddy Bennett, who died from a heart condition. Students participated in several basketball tournaments and a jump rope contest. They needed to raise at least $1 to go to the event and at least $5 to participate.
Bennett's mother, Amy, said she was happy with the turnout and said Maddy would be proud. "She loved Park Middle School and these kids today showed how much they love Maddy - all in their blue, cheering her on. She was their cheerleader; now they're hers," she said.
Health and physical education teacher Angela Culicerto, who coordinated the fundraiser, remarked on her former student. "She always had a smile on her face and always had something positive to say to everyone," said Culicerto. "Maddy has taught me more than anyone has taught me about life."
All of the proceeds from the fundraiser will go the American Heart Association.