Sticking to the theme of warmer weather in the region, volunteers with Relay For Life took it one step further Tuesday by offering a tropical paradise.

Relay For Life was able to host their annual survivors dinner inside the confines of Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) – Elizabethton with several residents stopping by to take in the fun. It was a team effort, according to volunteers. Throughout the evening, volunteers were able to deliver food to patrons. Each year, the dinner is used as a way to help recognize cancer survivors and raise funds for cancer research by the American Cancer Society.

Various local members helped put on the event. Those that were recognized included TCAT, John Bland, Pizza Inn, Chef Bryan, Ingles, J’s Corner, Sam’s Club and an anonymous donor that helped propel the event with a donation.

Multiple fundraisers are being eyed in the coming weeks as volunteers prepare for the annual Relay For Life all-night event.

TCAT will be the host site on June 22 with different activities on the agenda, including the night activities.

TCAT served as the host site last year and provides an opportunity for the event to take place either rain or shine with indoor space available for event goers.

One of the powerful parts of the event is the survivor walk. As action winds down and darkness hits the area, lights illuminate the area for Relay night thanks to luminaria bags.

Bags are used as a way to remember those that are affected by cancer. Bags are still available for $5. White bags are available for those to commemorate the life of someone that has been lost to cancer. Purple bags are available for cancer survivors and gold bags are the newest addition and are used as a way to remember caregivers. Caregiver shirts are also available for $15. All proceeds raised by Relay For Life go to benefit the American Cancer Society’s goal of furthering research to combat the disease.

To learn more about the upcoming event, visit the Carter County Relay For Life Facebook page or visit their website. Bags can be purchased by visiting with local Relay For Life members.