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Benefit planned for Markham search efforts

file photo Katelyn Markham

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By Kelsey Cano, Staff Writer 5:42 PM Wednesday, September 14, 2011

FAIRFIELD — A benefit for Katelyn Markham, the 22-year-old Fairfield woman missing for more than a month, has been organized by friends of her family to help offset costs associated with search efforts.

Markham’s father, Dave Markham, said the October benefit is a way to thank Texas EquuSearch, Search Tactics and Rescue Recovery (STAR) and Fairfield West Baptist Church, as well as to cover ongoing expenses, according to a statement on the TES website.

Tim Miller, founder and director of Texas EquuSearch, said he estimates TES spent anywhere from $12,000 to $15,000 searching for Markham.

Markham was last seen Aug. 13 at her Dorshire Drive townhouse. Police have said they have no evidence of what could have led to her disappearance, and after coordinated searches involving hundreds of volunteers, no evidence was found.

As the nonprofit solely relies on donations and fundraisers, the Oct. 22 event is not only helpful, but necessary to keep the organization running, Miller said.

“The bigger we get, the more calls we get, and the more expenses we get,” he said. “The economy is worse, so we don’t get the donations we used to get. ... The economy has hurt us just like it’s hurt every other non-profit organization.”

Additional searches by TES haven’t been planned, but Miller said he and other volunteers would be back if there are developments and police seek their assistance.

The fundraiser will include live music, soft drinks, dinner and beer, and a cash bar will be available, according event information. Raffles, door prizes and an auction will also be held.

Any donations from the community and businesses are still being sought for door prizes, the raffle and silent auction. An account in Markham’s name has been set up with PNC bank.

Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5237 or kcano@coxohio.com.

How to go

What: Katelyn Markham benefit

When: 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 22

Where: Fairfield Banquet and Convention Center at Tori’s Station, 74 Donald Drive

Cost: $25, includes dinner, soft drinks, beer, music; cash bar available

R.S.V.P.: (513) 360-0815

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