On May 29, 2015 WIZS performed a live broadcast from Southern Vance High School in Henderson in order to provide Vance County and beyond with live coverage of the 36th annual “Relay for Life of Vance County” event. 433 participants were in attendance at the two-day relay around Southern Vance’s Raider Stadium track to benefit the American Cancer Society.
The celebration began on Friday evening with the singing of the National Anthem. Many were already walking around the track as vendors and charity booths served hot food, sweets, and offered carnival-style games to support the cause. At the far end of the field several inflatable playgrounds were made available.
The event was denoted by smiles and support from those in attendance who walked the track as single participants or as part of one of the 41 groups wearing matching team T-Shirts that came out in memory of individuals they have lost or to help those in need that are currently struggling with cancer.
Live music played throughout the night from the center stage halting only briefly for the evening’s special events such as the motorcycle lap and a heart-felt speech from Henderson Mayor “Pete” O’Geary.
By nightfall the field was filled with participants as the edges of the track were lined with ceremonial luminaries purchased by attendees and signed with well wishes as well as the names of those who have been affected by cancer. Around 9pm on Friday the stadium lights which surrounded the field were turned off for a moment of silence and prayer for those who have had and are currently struggling with the illness.
Throughout Friday afternoon and evening WIZS’ John Charles Rose broadcast live coverage and commentary of the event while Jason Walsh took pictures and collected interviews from vendors, event officials, and those walking the track. Henderson Mayor “Pete” O’Geary provided an exclusive interview to John Charles Rose following his evening speech.
The broadcast also included music, weather, and news from John Stevenson who controlled and monitored the live coverage from inside the studio. The event wrapped up on Saturday afternoon with a closing ceremony to honor those lost and celebrate those who are part of the fight to end this disease. The 36th annual “Relay for Life of Vance County” event brought in a total of over $79,000, as of the end of the annual event, to benefit research conducted by the American Cancer Association. Additional monies will be raised and turned in for several more months until the 37th Annual Relay for Life Fundraiser and fiscal period begins in the fall. For more information about volunteering or donating to the ACS visit their website at www.cancer.org.
