A kickoff meeting on Thursday evening in Escalon saw some veterans and some newcomers alike gather at the Escalon Azores Hall, as plans were announced for a June 25 and 26 date for this year’s Relay For Life of Escalon.
The signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society, Relay is a 24-hour team event, with at least one member from each team on the track at all times. Most walk the track, though some choose to jog during their time; how to do laps is left up to the person on the track.
Arianna Kennedy, serving as event lead again this year, welcomed the roughly two dozen attendees and said they are weighing some options for this year, and are always looking for input and new participants.
“I will continue to relay until we find a cure,” Kennedy said of staying involved in the fight against cancer. She relays in memory of her aunt, Crystal Wendland.
Several committee assignments were solidified on Thursday night as well, though Kennedy said there are positions open for those interested in getting involved.
The Relay For Life event itself is staged on the campus of Escalon High school, set up on the football field as participants walk around the track surrounding the campsites.
Kennedy said one thing they want to stress this year is that the entire community is welcome and encouraged to attend, whether they are on a team or not. There is plenty to see and do during the day, from entertainment to activities to food, with all proceeds helping in the fight against cancer.
This year’s theme will be the Olympics, and each team can select a country to represent, decorating their campsite and perhaps serving food traditional to that country.
The ‘Paint the Town Purple’ event will be on June 11, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., with the Survivor Birthday Party following.
Some teams also have fundraisers planned already, from Bunco and a railroad excursion to a drive thru tri tip dinner. Beginning with the Feb. 10 issue of The Times, look for a special “Relay Corner” that will include events and activities leading up to the mid-summer event.
For more information or to get involved, contact Kennedy at 209-996-0129.
