Paying it forward

Approximately 600 people turned out for the Mandeville Tailgate Celebration Benefit last Saturday at the Columbus High School.
Geared as a “Pay it Forward” event, it gave the Mandeville family an opportunity to raise support for Christian mission scholarships. Giving back is important for the family in light of the tremendous outpouring of community support it has received since 23-year-old Steven Mandeville was diagnosed with advanced stage liver cancer recently. Steven and his new bride, Ellen, have returned to Columbus to be with family. Saturday’s events included an alumni football game and kids activities. The alumni football game was won by the Odd Team 38-24, with CHS Football Coach John Smith taking part. Mandeville played on the winning Odd Team and at halftime, he and Ellen were crowned king and queen. A BBQ lunch followed with a free will offering being taken. The proceeds of a free will offering will go to Christian Mission scholarships, which is one of Mandeville’s passions.
“It was a wonderful day and God certainly was in charge as the weather was so nice during the whole event and changed after it was over,” said event co-organizer Janell Kulla.