By By MICHELE GERLACH Publisher
Brewton's annual Relay for Life, the fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, begins at noon this Saturday at the YMCA. The local fundraising goal is $55,000.
Eleven teams have committed to raise money for relay, including St.Stephens/St. Maurice; Southern Pine; Smurfit Stone; Brewton Sportsmen; WalMart; Brewton Elementary; T.R. Miller Student Government; W.S. Neal High School; BankTrust; First United Methodist Church; and Covenant Hospice/MedSouth/Radiology Oncology.
Teams were encouraged to adopt a party theme for their tents, since 2005 marks Relay's 20th anniversary as a fundraising event.
Cancer survivors and their spouses or caregivers are invited to a luncheon at 11 a.m. and opening ceremonies begin at noon. Those planning to attend the luncheon are asked to RSVP to Brenda Kern at 867-4908.
Gerety said activities planned throughout the day should be interesting for both team members and those who just stop by. The YMCA will provide a nursery for children of Relay participants who are aged six weeks through preschool.
Michelle Walker has coordinated entertainment. She said one of the highlights will be "Relay Idol," based upon the American Idol contest. Participants will have an opportunity to entertain throughout the day, and a winner will be chosen at the end of event. To participate, contact Walker at 867-5743.
Other entertainment includes Boxing with Beth Dismukes, the Newlywed Game, Scavenger Hunt, Praise Band, Brewton Dance Studio Twirl Stars and Dance Starz Teams.