The annual Russell County Hospital Health Fair was a huge success with 741 people in attendance this past weekend, according to Kim Clark with Russell County Hospital.

This was the fifth year of the free event, which began in 2006 with the hospital's 25-year celebration.  

Russell Countians continue to help the fair grow as record numbers participated in the event in the high school's gymnasium where they learned about the many health services provided by the hospital and the other local businesses.

Clark said this was the most accurate count ever for the popular health fair, which was held in the high school for the second year in a row.

She said 12 inside the hospital "vendors" representing the various departments joined with 39 outside the hospital vendors to offer their services.

The vendors included most health-oriented businesses in the county as well as several other businesses.

Children could play numerous games; get a face painting or a free balloon at the event as well.

Clark said that nearly 1,600 blood labs were drawn leading up to the hospital, a record number there as well as folks were able to come to the fair and pick up their results.

Clark also recognized the Russell County Hospital Auxiliary who grilled hot dogs for a meal that was provided for $1 with benefits going to the local Relay For Life.

"They were a big help to us again, as usual," Clark said.

The hospital wished to thank the Russell County Board of Education for allowing use of the high school for this event.

Clark said the winner of the laptop, which was given away by the hospital, was Nancy Melson while John Pierce won the raffle for a Nintendo Wii game system and fitness board. The latter was done as a benefit for a RCH employee for their ongoing medical expenses.

She said event planning for next year's health fair will begin soon.