As the organizers of Cancer Freeze, the February fundraising event in Florala, mourn the loss of one of its nine recipients, locals are reminded of the event’s sponsorship deadline.

Jennifer Davidson, half of the husband-and-wife-duo who created the event in 2007 in memory of family and friends who had passed away with cancer, said Wednesday that Glenn Morris of Crestview, Fla., died earlier that morning. Morris was diagnosed with stage 4 incurable stomach cancer, and now his family will benefit from this year’s fundraising efforts.

“Whatever we raise, it will be split among our nine recipients,” Davidson said. “That means the money will go to Glenn’s family. We don’t make those choices. God does. It’s only fair, because even though Glenn isn’t battling cancer anymore, those bills are still there.”

During the February event and for a $20 entry fee, skiers brave the waters of Florala’s Lake Jackson in the middle of the winter – which led to the name “Cancer Freeze.” The event will be held on Sat., Feb. 1, 2014.

To date, 17 businesses, organizations and contributors have joined to become an event sponsor, Davidson said.

“But, our deadline to become a sponsor is Dec. 31,” she said. “Last year, we had 31 sponsors, and we’re hoping to beat that total this year.”

Sponsorships are available on three levels – $100, $250 and $500 – and allows one to have his or her company name, business or personal message placed on the back of this year’s shirt, Davidson said.

“Another important deadline that will be here before you know it, is the deadline for our first ever beauty pageant,” she said. “The pageant will be held on Jan. 18, but the deadline to submit your form is Jan. 4. Those are available on our website at cancerfreeze.net.”

Davidson also reminded residents that there are a variety of other ways to participate in the fundraising.

“We also have a 5K and the usual chili cook-off, a bass tournament, pancake breakfast, car show and motorcycle ride,” Davidson said.

All donations are tax-deductible, he said.