Relay will be April 29 and 30

Changes are in the works for Relay for Life Marion County in 2011.

Event chairman Jamie Norris announced next year’s theme would be “Relay Remodel.”

“As times change, we are sometimes hesitant to change how we do things,” Norris said. “We get caught up in the ‘This is how we have always done it’ mode and forget to look outside the box. This year the committee is very excited to try some new things, make some changes, and continue with some of the oldies but goodies.”

A major change will be the date of the event. Previously, the event has been in June. Next year, the fundraiser will be April 29 and 30 at Warrior Stadium in Marion.

Another change will be “Relay Bucks.”

“Teams can earn them throughout the planning period by participating in a variety of meetings and events,” Norris said. “Prior to the relay, teams will be able to ‘buy’ special privileges for the night of the relay.”

In previous years, the organization has hosted a survivor dinner the night of the relay. In 2010, there was a soup and pie supper after the relay. In 2011, there will be a Survivor Brunch a few weeks prior to the relay. Survivors and their families and friends are invited to attend. Survivors will receive T-shirts to wear at the relay when they participate in the survivor’s lap.

A silent auction was a success in 2010 and will continue in 2011, Norris said.

“Last year, each team was encouraged to put together a basket of goodies to auction off at the relay,” she said. “This was a huge hit with teams as it gave them the opportunity to increase their fundraising. We look forward to see what teams can come up with this year.”

Anyone interested in participating in the “Relay Remodel” should plan to attend a party and informational meeting at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 in the Marion Family Physicians Clinic building basement. Everyone is welcome and information packets will be distributed to teams that have registered.

For more information, contact Norris at (620) 382-5848.