FROM THE NEWSROOM: Whether rain or shine, participants have shown up at the Woodstock Fair grounds for the last 18 years in support of Relay For Life’s fight against cancer. At this year’s event, there was barely a cloud in the sky as the most dedicated relayers gathered for the Closing Ceremonies earlier today. There were a total of about 70 teams at this year’s fund-raising event, and PR man Paul Desautels estimated that there were 14 to 15 hundred people who were registered, and 500 to 1,000 people who showed up to support them, to donate, or to shop at the giant UNFI sale, from which all sales proceeds are donated to Relay For Life. Many at today’s event had stayed in tents on-site, and some had not gotten any sleep at all. Luminaries that had glowed with candlelight the previous night still lined many of the walkways. The luminaries were simple, white paper bags filled with some sand at the bottom of each, and containing a candle. The names of loved ones who have passed were written on the bags. As is custom, all who remained in the event (about a quarter or less of total participants) gathered around the main stage late this morning for the Closing Ceremonies. The American Cancer Society Ambassador and this year’s event Chair, Lori Rheul, said many thank you’s before announcing that about $221,000 had been raised, as of now. A final, definite number will be determined in the beginning of September. Sisters Gail and Patty Erskine were also welcomed to the stage after it was announced that they would be the Chairs for next year’s event. Tune in tomorrow for more details.
Posted on: Sun, 18 May 2014 19:56:01 +0000
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