CLAY COUNTY-The Relay for Life effort here that began several months back and ended with the big event last Friday night raised over $27,000 for the fight against cancer despite having to be moved inside due to rain.

“We had to implement our rain plan and move inside the Women’s Building,” an organizer said Monday, “but the teams and the survivors seemed to enjoy it all being inside and we had more participation than ever.”

Relay officials said the good crowd assembled enjoyed live entertainment provided by local talent and explained the luminary ceremony was “especially touching with the bags lined around the stage this year.”

Besides entertainment, a silent auction was held raising over $2,000 and Relay teams served up great food and fun throughout the night.

Cumberland River Hospital took the award for Best Decorated Campsite with their theme as an old time store with pickled eggs and bologna and decorations to go along with it.  They also won the Most Spirited Team Award.

The Bulldog Believers won the award for the Most Team Members Present, Celina Health and Rehab won the Best Team Banner award, and the United Methodist Church won the Best Sprit Stick Award.

“Overall, it was another great Relay,” officials said.  “Without the support of the Clay County volunteers, the American Cancer Society could not serve the many needs of so many individuals facing cancer every day.

“They make a difference in the lives of others and our hand goes out to each and every one of them for their tremendous efforts and support!”