Relay for Life events pay off big time

CANFIELD -- Relay for Life events raised $858,000 for the American Cancer Society last weekend in Boardman and Warren.
Both events endured through thunderstorms. Boardman and Warren witnessed lightning, thunder and heavy downpours.
"People from both communities showed their support in spite of some trying weather conditions," said Jo-Ann Crank, executive director of the American Cancer Society in Canfield.
Warren's Relay for Life took place at Warren G. Harding High School's Mollenkopf Stadium. The event included 150 teams and 1,100 cancer survivors. It raised $533,000.
Boardman's Relay for Life at Center Middle School Stadium raised $325,000. The event included 175 teams and 525 cancer survivors.
Last year, Warren had the largest Relay for Life in the state and Boardman had the second largest.
Relay for Life is the signature event for the American Cancer Society. Proceeds are used for research, education, advocacy and other services.