Relay garners over $4,000, despite low attendance

Facing the highest temperatures of the year, attendance at the annual Relay For Life of Ritzville and the Grateful to Be Alive Block Party was down significantly from past years, but the event still has raised over $4,000 for the American Cancer Society. Nearly $1,000 was raised the day of the event.

Event coordinators knew the increasing temperatures could be detrimental to the event’s success, but made the decision to continue the activities with the motivation of fighting against cancer.

Relay began at noon with a Survivor’s Lap, celebrating those who have battled cancer and won. The small but strong group of survivors walked one lap before being joined by all those in attendance.

Survivors enjoyed a barbecued meal while the remainder of attendees walked laps and prepared for the Grateful to Be Alive Block Party.

The remainder of the day was slow, as visitors were few and far between, mainly due to the heat.

Kids had the chance to play carnival games for prizes and jump in the bounce house.

The main highlights of the day came from the dunk tank, as willing volunteers jumped on the board to be dunked in the cool water and have relief from the heat.