2008 Relay kick off planned

Ranking fourth in Tennessee for most money raised at the 2007 Unicoi County Relay For Life has given volunteers and supporters an even higher goal to reach for the 2008 event – No. 1.To do this, event organizers have scheduled the 2008 Unicoi County Relay For Life Kickoff for Thursday, Feb. 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Clinchfield Senior Adult Center, 220 Union St., Erwin.

The kickoff is organized to not only rally volunteers, encourage team registration and provide information to potential new teams, but also to pass along the American Cancer Society’s nationwide theme for all Relays to “Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.”

Anyone interested in creating a team, joining a team or volunteering for the event is encouraged to attend, as well as survivors, business leaders, church members, and, basically, anyone who has been affected by cancer.

“Cancer is not a respecter of persons,” said Co-Chair Lesley Hughes. “Everyone is affected. Whether it be your own battle with cancer or someone you know – a parent, child, grandparent, friend, coworker or the neighbor down the street – everyone knows someone who has been affected by this disease. Relay For Life is how we fight back against cancer.”

For the first time, a countywide theme has been established: “Don’t Give Cancer a Sporting Chance.”

At the kickoff, the theme will be carried into the refreshments as hot dogs, popcorn and nachos will be served.

The goal for the 2008 event has been set at $115,000, more than $35,000 above last year’s goal at $80,000. Relayers exceeded that mark by raising more than $108,000 in 2007.

“I know Unicoi County can meet this goal,” Hughes said. “We are setting the bar high because we know the county will rally around its survivors and those who are battling cancer right now.

“In 2007, Unicoi County ranked as the fourth county in the state in fund-raising. This community always supports the American Cancer Society Relay For Life throughout the entire year. I know in my heart that the businesses, citizens and officials will help us reach this goal.”

The annual Relay is scheduled for July 25, beginning at 7 p.m.

For more information about the kickoff, call Hughes or Anthony Piercy at 743-4112. The event is open to the public.