By By Lisa Tindell
With the Relay for Life event just over a week away, teams are putting final plans in place for an unusual beginning to the fundraiser scheduled for April 24.
For the first time in the history of the event, a parade will be held to kick off the event.
Gayle Johnson, parade coordinator, said more than 10 floats are already committed to participate in the parade.
Johnson said invitations have been extended to those outside Relay participants to help make the parade a big event.
Parade floats will serve two purposes this year with each one become a campsite once they arrive at the Relay site, Johnson said.
In addition to Relay team floats, Johnson said a special float would also be a part of the parade.
Julie Ray, committee chairperson for the event, said plans are being made to honor survivors during the parade.
The parade will begin from the First United Methodist Church and proceed to Horner Street. The route will go from Horner Street to Main Street turning onto Lindberg Avenue to Tom Byrne Park.
Survivors will also be honored by being featured following opening ceremonies.
Additional activities planned for Relay include the Luminaries lighting at 9 p.m., Ray said.
Participants are also scheduled to appear in a Womanless Beauty Pageant during the event as well, Ray said.
Ray said the Relay event will begin with the parade at noon followed by opening ceremonies at the park at 1 p.m. and will be completed by midnight.
For additional information on Relay for Life or how to contribute to the event, contact any Relay for Life team member or call Ray at 368-9121.