Foothills Christian Academy, church raise more than $20,000

On short notice, the Foothills Christian Academy and Pine Mountain Gospel Church in Backus held what they dubbed the "Greatest Fundraiser on Earth" on Saturday, Aug. 29, featuring a 5K run/walk, a silent auction, barbecue cookout and a battle of the bands.

As a whole, the fundraising events of the day raised more than $20,000 to help fund tuition costs for students..

The silent auction was available for viewing and bidding throughout the day starting at 7:30 a.m. with the 5K starting at 8:30 a.m. The first runner, Isak Sommers, crossed the finish line at 17:51 with Ben Sabas coming in second at 25:33 and Monica Abraham coming in third at 26:06.

Backus Church of the Nazarene won the battle of the bands against other participants, including Pine Mountain Gospel Vacation Bible School, Providence Community Church of Crosslake, Riverview Church of Pine River and the Burns Family.

1/2: Kicking off the day's fundraising activities, the Foothills 5k Fun Run/Walk featured blue skies and bright sun. Travis Grimler / Echo Journal

2/2: Isak Sommers took an early lead at the very start of the Foothills 5K Family Fun Run/Walk and finished first at the event. Travis Grimler / Echo Journal