Lake Butler Relay for Life

LAKE BUTLER, FL - The Relay for Life of Lake Butler is just around the corner. There are currently 25 registered teams with more than 250 participants, who along with the corporate sponsors, have already raised nearly $20,000.

This year's theme is "Music Through the Decades." The 18-hour event will be held at the track at the Union County High School football stadium from 3 p.m. on Friday, May 16, until Saturday, May 17, at 9 a.m.

Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society's version of an athletic relay, but with a new twist. It is a family-oriented event where teams camp out at the track, participate in games and hold fundraisers to support the American Cancer Society.

The event will begin with the survivor's reception and the ceremonial first lap around the track by Union County cancer survivors followed by the teams.

Luminaries will align the track, and as the sun sets, the candles will be lit and a moment of silence will be observed in memory of loved ones who have lost their battle with cancer.

Teams will then take to the track with their spirit sticks in hand, as they compete for numerous awards such as the overall top fundraising team, most outstanding team campsite, most spirited team and best relay stick, to name a few.

There will be fun for everyone, including such things as food, drinks, chair messages, silent auctions, karaoke, a bubble blowing contest, the Macarena, a bounce house, promotional items, haircuts, glow bracelets, photo booth with costumes, blood pressure checks, meteor wishing well, angel necklaces, face painting, hair braiding, baked goods, a breakfast and more.

There is still time to start your own team today by visiting the Lake Butler Relay for Life Web site: www.events.cancer.org/rfllakebutlerfl or by calling Alee Gunderson at the American Cancer Society in Gainesville (352) 3376-6866 ext. 120.

Participants can also register their team and/or turn in commitment fees at Bank Night, scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the Lake Butler Church of Christ.