Today begins the final stretch toward Pike County's Relay for Life event, a culmination of a year's worth of planning and fund raising efforts by a broad cross section of our community.

The Relay event isn't something that just happens in a short period of time, and the results of the local American Cancer Society unit's efforts reflect that.

Without the dedication and hard work of a lot of people, Relay would not be as successful as it is in our county.

We've set a high standard in the past and a lofty goal this year, but as we've proven before teamwork and solidarity will allow us to achieve our goals.

Relay for Life is about more than just finding a cure for cancer or the educational and preventative programs of the American Cancer Society.

It's about community. It demonstrates that when we join together we can really move forward. It's an example of the best we have to offer as individuals and as a collective community.

Support Relay Friday night. Come out and join the activities.

But most of all, use Relay as an opportunity to join hands with neighbors and come closer as a community.