Relay for Life opens in typical fashion

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

The weather was pretty much normal for the event the past few years — rain and clouds, with snatches of sunshine — but those who participated in the 2011 Relay for Life fundraiser, sponsored by the American Cancer Society, also exhibited the normal “do-anything” attitude that cancer survivors and their families have shown in the past.

That was demonstrated by the fact that a number of cancer survivors made the long walk from the YWCA to the Van Wert County Fairgrounds prior to the official opening of this year’s Relay for Life event.

Amy Schroeder, 2011 Relay for Life chair, opened the event Friday evening as participants gathered at the fairgrounds for the start of this year’s fundraiser. Kayla Wendel, 12, sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” while flags unfurled in the breeze. Cancer survivors then took a lap around the track created at the fairgrounds for the event, while caregivers joined in for a second lap.

There was plenty to do last night at the fairgrounds, with Harmonica John Wistner and dancers from Kim Hohman’s DanceWorks performing. A Kids Lap was also held, with a disc jockey also providing music about 9 p.m.

Schroeder then led the annual Luminaria Ceremony, which honors those who have succumbed to cancer. A list of those honored with luminaria was read off and participants then walked a lap led by a bagpiper.

The Fortress Band then played to round out the night, with deejays filling the night with music for those walking laps as part of the fundraiser.

A gospel hour begins at 6 this morning, while jazz musician Eric Miglin will also perform. The Race for Life 5K run begins at 8 a.m., while karaoke is available starting at 9 this morning. “Ohio Has Talent” winner Dustin Long will perform at 11 a.m. up until the closing ceremony at noon.