02/01/09 — Relay kickoff, Sun Feb 1

View Archive

Relay kickoff, Sun Feb 1

By Staff Reports
Published in News on February 1, 2009 2:00 AM

Wayne County residents are gearing up for the 2009 Relay for Life with a kickoff celebration dinner Thursday.

The event takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. at First Pentecostal Holiness Church.

The speakers will be this year's honorary adult chairman, Stephanie Craig and honorary kid's chairman, Jennifer Kominsky. Each will share her story of survival.

The kickoff is held to thank the Relay corporate sponsors and motivate and encourage team captains, said Debbie Pennell, Relay co-chairman.

Co-chairmen will also be introduced. They are Dr. Lee Adams, Brenda Robinson, Ethel Barnes and Ms. Pennell.

Outback Steakhouse is catering the dinner. "The employees of the restaurant prepare and serve the meal on a volunteer basis," Ms. Pennell said. "This is their way of supporting Relay for Life and giving back to the community. Many of the employees come back year after year to be a part of this celebration of life."

About 230 people attended last year's kickoff and more are expected to attend this year.

The dinner is free. Anyone wanting to attend should call 866-227-8837 by Tuesday to make a reservation.

The Relay for Life will be held May 29 and 30 at Wayne Community College.