The results of the Pennies for Patients collection was marked by an aura of suspense and a rousing student assembly at the Borough Elementary School's Siegfried building.

The student council unfurled banners revealing that a record $6,731 was collected to benefit the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Packed in the school gym, the more than 800 students exhibited as much excitement as those at a high school pep rally before a major athletic event.

The first- through sixth-grade students were joined by kindergartners who attend classes at the Franklin building on Ninth Street in the borough.

Teacher and student council advisor Gary Pierzga said the students, teachers, staff and families outdid themselves in raising the money that will benefit research, programs and patients. He said much of the money will remain in the Lehigh Valley.

Pennies filled several large white pails. Mixed in with them were donations of silver change and paper money.

Pierzga said over the five years the Pennies for Patients campaign has been held, the total funds collected reached $26,095.09. Each year the amount raised grows, starting at $2,000 the first year, climbing to $6,513.27 last year and $6,731.83 this year. Collections occur over a three week span in January and February. The assembly was held in early March.

"You've done it, outstanding," Pierzga told the cheering students. "Your support, of all the fundraisers, this is the biggest."

Caroline Bischof and Aubrey Gallagher, student council copresidents, presented the $6,731.83 check to Pamela Formoca of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Jacob Biery, first grader, was given an enthusiastic ovation for being the top contributor, collecting $242.49. The winning grade level was the first grade with $1,225,44. Coming in second was the kindergarten class with $1,118.74.

Mayor Thomas Reenock and Police Chief Ron Morey participated in the program. Linda Stepp of National Penn Bank, which counted the copper pennies with the aid of a special counter, said the task took five hours.

Morey, who transported the pails of pennies to the bank, said the penny-filled pails each weighed in excess of 100 pounds.