BEDFORD — The fourth annual Relive the Night Gala returns Saturday, Feb. 21, with a sold-out crowd and a bold goal: raising $100,000 for Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services.
All proceeds from the evening will stay in Lawrence County, directly supporting local individuals and families battling cancer. Organizers say the event has grown each year, fueled by a community committed to caring for its own.
The gala features music and entertainment with Clair Roub serving as DJ and master of ceremonies. While tickets are no longer available, community members can still contribute through donations or by participating in the popular King and Queen contest — a central piece of the fundraiser.
The King and Queen contest awards the titles to the candidates who raise the most money for the organization. Voting requires a donation, with $1 equaling one vote. On the night of the gala, votes must be paid by cash or check only, though supporters may contact candidates ahead of time to contribute using their preferred payment method. Checks should be made payable to Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services or LCCPS.
Donations can be made by contacting a candidate directly, dropping off contributions at Hoover’s Candy Shop, 1815 28th St., Bedford — with “Gala” and the candidate’s name on the envelope — or by calling or texting Dan Kemple at 812-583-3359 for pickup.
The event committee includes Dan and Kellie Kemple; Charles and Deanna Cessna; Laura Turner; Jennifer Diehl; and Teena Ligman. The committee selected this year’s slate of King and Queen candidates, each with personal ties to the cause.
The winners will be crowned during Saturday night’s event.
Those interested in nominating someone for next year’s gala can email relivethenightgala@yahoo.com.
2026 King Candidates
Blaine Mackey
A longtime crane operator now working in crane rental and sales, Mackey is a devoted grandfather and active church member. After battling early-stage melanoma twice and losing his grandmother to breast cancer last year, he is motivated to give back in her memory. He hopes each vote cast in his name will bring tangible help to local families facing cancer.
Tim Smith
A lifelong Lawrence County resident and 1991 BNL graduate, Smith is running in honor of his father, who died of cancer in 2006. He says the title represents the collective effort of a generous community rather than personal recognition. Smith views the campaign as a way to unite residents around a shared purpose.
Jeremy Mullis
Mullis brings firsthand experience with LCCPS after volunteers supported his family during his father’s illness. He emphasizes the meaningful impact of both practical assistance and simple friendship during difficult times. His focus is on encouraging everyone to vote and support the cause, regardless of the candidate.
James L. MaDaris III
MaDaris and his wife relocated to Lawrence County about 18 months ago and quickly embraced the community’s spirit. After watching his wife and sister battle cancer and enter remission, he is passionate about honoring their strength. He sees fundraising as a way to stand beside families navigating similar journeys.
Brent Voigtschild
A Bedford native and civilian Department of the Navy employee for more than 26 years, Voigtschild is in remission from soft tissue sarcoma. He previously supported LCCPS fundraisers but later found himself a recipient of its services. He is now working to ensure other families receive the same care and compassion.
Shawn Collingsworth
A lifelong resident, union commercial plumber and local musician, Collingsworth is running in memory of his friend Danny Clipp. He hopes to honor his friend’s legacy of service to local children and families. Collingsworth says the campaign is about inspiring others to invest in their community.
2026 Queen Candidates
Jana Johnson
A lifelong resident and nearly 20-year Crane Army employee, Johnson is running in gratitude for the support LCCPS provided her father and grandmother. She witnessed firsthand the meals, supplies and emotional care the organization offered her family. Johnson hopes to help extend that same support to others.
Madelyn Nelson
Nelson, a local business owner and insurance agent, is running in memory of her mother and father-in-law, both of whom died from cancer. She recalls the assistance LCCPS provided during her mother’s treatment, including wigs and other essentials. As a lifelong resident, she is committed to strengthening the community that supported her family.
Alexia Cochran
Born and raised in Lawrence County, Cochran balances full-time work, small-business ownership and service as a foster parent. She is active in local youth initiatives, including serving as treasurer for the county Girl Scouts service unit. Cochran says she is eager to help expand the gala’s impact across the community.
Jalynn Holmes
A two-year survivor of stage 3 breast cancer, Holmes endured treatment while raising two young daughters. She credits strong workplace and community support for helping her family through the ordeal. Holmes is fundraising to ensure other patients receive assistance with transportation, childcare and emotional support.
Those interested in volunteering, donating, or just learning more about Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services can visit their website by clicking here.
Organizers say the gala is ultimately about more than a crown. It is about neighbors rallying around neighbors — and ensuring that no one in Lawrence County faces cancer alone.
