Relay for Life kick-off rally Thursday

OTHELLO — A Heart of the Basin Relay for Life kickoff rally is Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Othello High School.

"It seems to most of us that this past year's Relay for Life just concluded, but we've had so many volunteers and team members asking about this year, we decided to hold the kick-off well in advance of the event," said Relay for Life chair Peggy Hamilton.

Relay for Life is an annual event through the American Cancer Society.

Hamilton said most of last year's teams, committee members and sponsors are expected to attend the rally, but she is hoping people new to Relay for Life decide to attend.

"Though the media has been exceptional in promoting Relay for Life in the past, there are still some in the area who think it's actually a race," Hamilton said.

The rally begins in the evening and runs until the next morning. During relays, teams are requested to keep one member on the track at all times, she said. Traditions of Relay for Life include an opening lap for survivors and an evening ceremony.

Heart of the Basin Relay for Life is scheduled to start July 27.

Teams are composed of friends, family, co-workers, survivors of cancer, students and seniors, she said.

For more information, call Peggy Hamilton at 509-488-2734.

— Staff report