UNITED WAY SURPASS GOAL.

Byline: Daily News

LANCASTER - The local United Way chapter surpassed its June 21 telethon goal by raising $50,256.

A few minutes before midnight, James and Christian Baker walked into United Way of Antelope Valley offices in their robes and slippers to present a $1,000 check. Shortly after, Ron Emard of Robertson's Palmdale Honda called in a $1,500 pledge to put the count over the goal of $50,000.

``This is such an exciting way to help the community raise funds,'' said retired sheriff's Capt. Tom Pigott, co-chairman of the United Way campaign for the past year.

The Adelphia program also named two ``Antelope Valley Idols'' - Dustin Carlin and Sarah Mestas. Carlin competed in the adult competition and wowed judges with his moonwalker style of dance. Mestas, celebrating her ninth birthday during the telethon, captured first place in the youth division for her rendition of ``You'll Never Walk Alone.''

Eleven singers and dance acts were invited to perform in the competition. They were judged on stage presence, originality of talent, costuming and overall effect.

In the adult division, first runner-up was Barbara Gilliam and second runner-up was Cash El Rumbero Latino. In the youth division, the first runner-up was Jacob Nelson and the second runner-up was E-Motion.

``The hard work, the practice and the dedication of these performers was worth it for everyone who watched,'' said co-chairman Greg Galli of Suburban Realty. ``I wish we could give them all first place.''

Diane Grooms, regional vice president of United Way in Antelope Valley, said the telethon also provides a way to recognize major donors and charities in the valley.

``The donors and volunteers make every telethon a success, no matter how much we raise,'' Grooms said. ``Our sponsors join us as donors and as hosts.''

The first donation of $500 for the telethon came earlier in the week from George's Cleaners.

``We think everyone must have heard about our event after a week's worth of preview shows, ads, news articles, radio bulletins on Clear Channel's six stations, fliers and letters,'' said Grooms. ``Everyone was pitching in to help spread the news of our final campaign push.''

The competitors shared the event with Adelphia News anchors and reporters and community leaders who have worked for the campaign throughout the past nine months.

The telethon raises roughly four percent of the United Way's annual campaign in the Antelope Valley. The final total for the year will be announced at an awards lunch July 1.

A roving camera caught talent at Costco, Funland and Brunswick Bowling. Hosts Mitchell Chase and Ron Emard provided unexpected fun for customers who joined in.

Adelphia was the title sponsor, providing more than $25,000 in services.

Gold sponsors of $2,500 each included Lancaster Community Hospital, Robertson's Palmdale Honda, Lancaster West Rotary, Waste Management and Select 25 Realtors.

Silver sponsors of $1,250 or more included Coldwell Banker Bozigian Realty, Antelope Valley Bank, Antelope Valley Eye Care Medical Clinic, The Gas Co., Lockheed Federal Credit Union, Hunter Dodge and U.S. Borax.