“Free gas for a year” was a coveted prize at the Second Annual Fuel the Fight cancer fundraiser held Oct. 11 at Dakota Square Arco, according to a press release. On Monday, prize sponsor United Community Bank (UCB) presented the award worth $2,600 to the winner, Cy Kotaska of Sawyer.

An insurance adjuster with Farmers Mutual Insurance, Kotaska accepted the award while presenting his own contribution to the campaign, which provides direct financial assistance to patients at the Trinity CancerCare Center. “I’m humbled – I hardly know what to say,” Kotaska said in the press release, adding, “My district extends from eastern North Dakota to central Montana, so this will come in handy.”

“The free fuel drawing provides a fun way to support a very important cause,” said Todd Vangsness, Minot UCB president. “We are very thankful to have the opportunity to participate in Fuel the Fight and appreciate all who came out to support it.”

Fuel the Fight was a team effort by Dakota Square Arco and several local businesses. Tentative estimates indicate the event raised more than $20,000 for cancer patients.