Overcast skies and the threat of thunderstorms rapidly dissipated to be replaced by clear blue skies and warm sunshine on Saturday afternoon as the Jericho school community joined together, more than 950 strong, to "Relay For Life." This enormous school community gathering was held to support the outstanding research, education, advocacy, and service of the American Cancer Society. Total donations are currently approaching $80,000.

"Relay For Life" is an overnight celebration of hope, progress, and answers. Groups of friends, families, neighbors and co-workers form teams and walk around a track to raise funds, awareness and spirits of those present. Forty-five tents were pitched and over 200 people stayed till the early light of dawn for the closing ceremony.

After a 5:30 p.m. dinner for cancer survivors, the kickoff ceremony began at 7 p.m. with help from Jericho Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman, the Jericho Singers, the Jericho High School Jazz Band and Relay Chair Matt DeMarinis. Groups walked the track throughout the night. Theme laps brought out character costumes, outfits from the 50s and 60s, and even a limbo pole. Co-chairs Hilari Cohen, Doreen Leibowitz and Theone Rinaudo successfully coordinated all activities and entertainment for the event.

The community celebrated "light" during the very emotional and moving luminary ceremony. "There are two ways of spreading light; to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it," quoted co-chair Lisa Lozito as she lit candles with all Relay co-chairs. Lisa co-chaired the luminary committee with Mady Minkoff and Lauren Murphy. Donations collected for luminaria resulted in 1,500 flickering beacons of light that glowed throughout the night symbolizing hope and loving memories.

Raffles were another exciting part of the evening. Co-chair Susan Cohen worked tirelessly along with volunteers Lisa Goldstein and Debbie Rechler to obtain spectacular prizes. Raffle donations totaled $17,924.

Many generously donated food for the event. The Jericho Athletic Association served up hundreds of hot dogs and hamburgers for the hungry crowd, which generated an additional $675 in donations. Bagel Boss of Jericho, Jericho Deli, Café Dolce Vita, Milleridge Bakery and Florist, the Teig Family, and the Feinstein family pitched in to feed survivors and participants as well.

Recruitment co-chairs Joan Rosenberg and Amy Motschwiller, and registration co-chairs Brian Cummings and Betsy Zahn worked tirelessly to sign up more than 950 people for the Relay. Corporate co-chairs Ira Checkla and Joe Lorintz collected $23,000 from local businesses to support the event.

For information about other Relays or the American Cancer Society check www.cancer.org or call 1.800.ACS.2345