rteiay lor uie is also being planned by a

rteiay lor uie is also being planned by a small group of volunteers. This year Relay will have a theme—“Rockin’ Rodeo Relays and some of the entertainment, refreshments, and team displays will be Rodeo-oriented (including possibly a mechanical bull). TTiis will be Rappahannock’s Ninth Relay for Life and it is expected to be the best. The Relay is one of the 'largest community events in Rappahannock County and it is both a celebration of life and a community party. The Relay teams set up campsites and survivors walk the first lap, symbolizing the progress that has been made in the fight against cancer. Evening luminary ceremonies memorialize those special people who have lost their battles with the disease and celebrate those who have survived. In addition, cancer education takes place.

Relay for Life is the only county fund raiser for the Rappahannock County Unit of the American Cancer Society. Teams of 10 to 15 people raise funds for the American Cancer Society and then participate by taking turns moving around a track during the overnight event. Fund raising mostly takes place before the event as Relay teams’ members solicit sponsors for themselves and their teams and through other activities such as bake sales and yard sales. This year Relay will be held on May 19 and 20 at the Rappahannock County Elemen. tary School. The second team captain’s meeting will be held on Thursday, March 15 at 7 p.m. at , the Washington Baptist Church Both new and old team captains are encouraged to attend thi« meeting where teams will register (and give their t-shirt sizes) for the event

Tbams and sponsors are the backbone of the Relay but there is lots of room for volunteers to do other things. If you have questions or would like to assist with food, entertainment, or other aspects of Relay call Bev Atkins (540-675-3843), Ester Settle (540-675-3252) or Bette Mahoney (540675-3446).