The generosity of Montezuma County residents and businesses has pushed United Way well past its 1999 goal.

The Montezuma County campaign raised $79,000, compared to a local goal of $63,000, executive director Petra Lyon reported Thursday at the goal celebration luncheon for United Way of Southwest Colorado — Montezuma County.

Fifty two people attended the gala, which was hosted by Lan DeGeneres, 1999 campaign chairperson and general manager of KRTZ, and Elva Norte, campaign coordinator for Montezuma County. Overall, Lyon reported, United Way of Southwest Colorado surpassed its regional goal of $500,000 by raising $509,000.

Norte, DeGeneres and Lindy Rucker reminisced about the campaign and recognized the many individuals who helped make it a tremendous success. Norte emphasized that throughout the campaign, it was evident that it was a community effort, with support from all the communities that comprise Montezuma County.

Vern and Lindy Rucker conducted an emotional and heartwarming slide presentation of the year’s highlights, including fund-raising events and the various agencies’ programs.

DeGeneres was presented with an award for serving as the 1999 campaign chairperson.

"Of the many projects that I have been involved in throughout the community, the 1999 United Way campaign has been the most enjoyable and most rewarding experience," she said.

Debby Jones presented Darlene Sichta with the Jim Childs volunteer of the Year Award for her involvement with united way, including attending presentations, promoting United Way member agencies’ programs, and assisting with various fund-raisers throughout the campaign.

Grace Scarfo received the Silent Hero Award for her "behind the scenes" efforts and time spent not only to assist United Way but in appreciation of her presence at various community events and activities.

Sue Johnson-Erner received the Grass Roots Award, given to an individual who has shown continued involvement and support to United Way since its inception in Montezuma County.

Citizens State Bank, Southwest Contracting, Etc., Wal-Mart of Cortez, Empire Electric Association and City Market received recognition for their outstanding support in being 1999 pacesetters,.

The advisory council presented awards and extended words of appreciation to many businesses and employees who supported United Way in this year’s campaign. The volunteers who were present were presented with certificates of appreciation.

Drawings for the grand prizes were held during the luncheon, and the winners were as follows:

•Marie Murphy, Colorado Rapids autographed shirt.

•Orly Lucero, Valeri Kamensky autographed Colorado Avalanche hat.

•Libby Baker, Raef LaFrentz autographed Denver Nuggets t-shirt.

•Lorna Blakely, Grand Canyon Railway trip for two.

•Teresa Dayle, accommodation for two at Si Redd’s Oasis Resort Hotel/Casino in Mesquite, Nev.

•Hal Shepherd, Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway pass for two adults and two children.

•Jannie Yazzie, accommodations at the Edgewater Hotel/Casino in Laughlin, Nev.

•Dorothy Gapp and Sharon Gasstale, getaway at the Virgin River Hotel/Casino/Bingo in Mesquite.

•Joyce Turner and Joyce Raby, getaway at the Casa Blanca Hotel/Casino/Golf/Spa in Mesquite.

•Barbara Dean, Colorado Rockies sweatshirt, cap, water bottle and Darryl Kile autographed baseball.