Jeff Johnson; photo by Sandra Lowe, courtesy of Dallas County Conservation

The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association recently held their 12th annual banquet, and the event was considered a big success, particularly in the face of adverse weather conditions.

The banquet serves as the the association’s only fundraiser for the year, and the preliminary estimate for how much was raised this year was nearly $22,000. The event was held at the West Des Moines Marriott at the end of February, with former KCCI anchorman Kevin Cooney serving as the master of ceremonies. Dallas County Conservation Director Mike Wallace filled the role of auctioneer for the eventing, with auction items including a chef’s table dining experience from the Hotel Pattee, numerous bike-related items, and pork loins from Tyson Fresh Meats.

The keynote speaker for the event was Iowa State University Alumni Association President and CEO Jeff Johnson. His overall message was that everyone can have an impact and make a difference, no matter how small the contribution may seem. The Raccoon River Valley Trail Association supports the advertising, website, social media, and other promotions for the popular central Iowa trail.