Pullman's Relay for Life April 2-3

Kara McMurray, Gazette Reporter | Mar 23, 20160

The Pullman version of Relay for Life will hit the Pullman High School track next weekend, April 2-3 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Cougs Against Cancer, a university organization, has been planning the event with the help of Community Manager Taylor Johnson, who works in the Spokane office of the American Cancer Society. Taylor also oversees the Colfax event, slated this year for June 10-11 at McDonald Park. A superhero theme is in place for Pullman Relay for Life.

“The theme is superheroes, and we would love anyone and everyone to come,” Johnson said.

Johnson said several teams in Pullman have registered, including the Pullman Fire Department, Pullman Police Department, Pullman Regional Hospital, Wal-Mart, Gladish and the Key Club at the high school. Many teams from the university have also registered.

“It's a joint community and university event,” Johnson said. “It's really turned into a good collaboration between the community and the university with teams from both.”

Johnson said a fundraising goal of $50,000 has been set, and she expects about 400 people to attend. She said the opening ceremony is slated for 6 p.m., with Mayor Glenn Johnson announcing.

“There will be plenty of food, activities and games for the whole 12 hours,” she added.

Johnson also said there will be a competition and prize for the best-decorated tent site, a pizza party for the top fundraising team, a silent auction and a volleyball tournament. She added there are plans to help participants stay warm this year, too.

“We have big heaters to keep people warm,” she said.

A survivor's ceremony is also slated for 6:30 p.m. with a survivor's reception to follow, Johnson said.

Pullman High School is currently undergoing a remodel, and Johnson said the remodel will not impact the track at the high school or parking there for Relay.

It is not too late to register for the event, and Johnson said people can register as individuals, teams or survivors. Registration can be completed online at http://www.relayforlife.org/pullmanwa.