Andrew Granick, of the South Auburn Grange Relay for Life team, signs his name to a t-shirt that will be presented to legislators as part of the American Cancer Society’s lobbying campaign effort in Harrisburg.
BY STACI WILSON
Most people think of Susquehanna County’s Relay for Life as a 24-hour event in July but planning for its annual success happens throughout the year.
Relay teams kicked off the 2011 season with a “New Year-New Relay” team dinner on Saturday.
American Cancer Society’s Erin Moskel told the group the goal for Relay is to help promote the services the organization offers cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.
She also called for a grassroots effort for people to contact legislators and share their stories.
The party was held at the United Methodist Church, New Milford.
Event chair Peter Bell said that, to date, 11 teams are registered to participate in this year’s Relay. Teams have already begun their fundraising efforts.
“Everybody has been working very hard,” Bell said.
Last year, Bell said, the Susquehanna County Relay for Life raised about $60,000.
“Our goal is to raise more this year,” he said.
The 2011 Relay of Life in Susquehanna County is set to be held July 22-23, on the track at the Montrose Area High School. This year’s theme is “Birthday Party.”
Bell spoke about the importance of the Survivors’ Dinner held during Relay.
“It’s the time we take to honor those who are with us. We are always looking for survivors and caregivers to attend the dinner. We want to make sure they feel welcome,” Bell said.
Bonnie Morgan is chair of the Survivors’ Dinner.
Other committee chairs include: Jennifer Button-Weller, logisitics; Jennifer Strickland, activities/ entertainment; Elizabeth Ralston, luminaria chair; Donna Conklin, publicity; Andrew Granick, accounting.
County ACS contact Cindy Delaney told the group, “You are a wonderful group to work with. I appreciate all you do and just want to say thank you. You do a wonderful job.”
Bell said, “Keep in mind why you Relay; what we’re here for; and what Relay is all about.”
Meetings to plan for the annual event are held on the second Tuesday of the month. For more information, contact Peter Bell at peterbell2203@yahoo.com or Cindy Delaney at cindy.delaney@cancer.org or visit the website, www.relayforlife/pasusquehanna or find Susquehanna County Relay for Life on Facebook for updates.
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