Relay for Life Plans Big Surprise for Opening Ceremony

Doug Ridley, chairperson for this year's Relay for Life in Moorpark, said big things are afoot for the event's 10 a.m. opening ceremonies Saturday, but he's keeping tight lipped as to just what is planned.

Still, he hinted it might just have something to do with the stormtroopers and other Star Wars characters who will be attending and helping promote the Relay Fights Back theme. The stormtroopers are members of the 501st Legion of Stormtroopers, a group of Star Wars fans—especially Star Wars costume enthusiasts—who, among other things, volunteer time at public events throughout Southern California. The group last visited Moorpark for an event at the library in September.

Other features planned for the annual American Cancer Society fundraiser are a gaming area, an expanded survivors' booth and a large lineup of entertainment including The One Last Dance Band, The Mark Cross Band, Neil Diamond impersonator Larry Boyle, karate demonstrations, a mariachi band from the Inlkench Cultural Arts Center and more.

As well, a variety of food will be available for purchase.

The Relay itself will last from 10 a.m. Saturday to noon Sunday. 453 participants on 52 teams will continuously walk around the track. Even if you're not participating as a walker, the Relay committee welcomes all members of the community to come support cancer survivors and remember those lost to the disease.