Rice County Relay Will Surpass $2 Million Mark

The 24th annual Rice County Relay for Life is this Friday night on the Rice County Fairgrounds in Faribault. The American Cancer Society fundraiser features entertainment, food, games, luminaries and education about cancer.

Relay bank night was Monday night and, after teams have turned in the money they've raised heading into the event, about $90,000 is on the books.

I know the Relay will pass the $2 million mark this year because at the conclusion of last year's event that number was within striking distance. I'll get the official amount needed before Friday's event and hope you are there to help us celebrate.

The number of teams participating has dwindled in recent years and there are 14 teams this year with 151 participants. But the amount raised is close to the same, which is a tribute to those teams for helping make up the difference.

That's also where the rest of us come in.

If you have not purchased a luminary in remembrance or honor of someone, you can do so Friday night. When my parents were alive I would always purchase the bags lit with candles in thanks for their health free from cancer.

I honestly don't know how many years I've emceed the event, but I do know I enjoy seeing many of the same faces each year, and new faces too.

There will be an American Red Cross Bloodmobile again this year on the grounds and the Red Cross has recently put out an urgent call for blood of all types. The drive will begin at 4PM and go until 9PM. I've given blood in the mobile unit before and it is comfortable.

The Nerstrand Meats Hot Dogs are back by popular demand and Bashers will be there with their food truck.

This year's Honorary Chairs are Kerry Vigesaa and Nicole Zrust.

The opening ceremony is at 6PM, with the survivor lap scheduled to start at about 6:30PM. Luminary sales are 5-8PM. A survivors reception is in the Beer Garden from 5-6PM.

Allina Health will once again have a cancer education booth.

The Relay wraps up Saturday morning with a closing ceremony at 7AM.

I hope to see you Friday night at the Rice County Relay For Life on the Rice County Fairgrounds.