(Editor’s Note: Daniel Thompson was chairman for Panola County’s 2014 Relay for Life, held May 9)

Last Friday night the American Cancer Society wrapped up the 2014 Relay for Life season in Panola County with the most successful Relay for Life Panola County has seen in years. Even though I say wrapped up, we all know cancer never sleeps, and we already have several teams raising money and preparing for next year.

An estimated 700 people attended, with relay teams and other participants enjoying live entertainment, food, games and ceremonies designed to show our commitment to ending cancer.

Thank you, Panola County, for all of your support. Because of you we reached our goal of more than $35,000. Fifteen teams participated, setting a record for Panola County.

Batesville firefighters took home the most spirited team award and Sta-Home won the top new team. Tri-Lakes Medical Center won best tent site and top fundraising team. Marlin Williams of TVEPA was the individual who raised the most.

Our survivor dinner was a huge success and I would like to thank Judy Tutor for all the work she did coordinating the dinner. I would also like to thank Walmart, Lowes, Scootie Murphree of the South Panola School District, Crowder Baptist Church, and many others who made this year’s Relay such a huge success.

Also, to The Panolian, Batesville Tire and Muffler, and local radio stations, thank you for helping us promote the Relay.

Our event wouldn’t have been a success without our fantastic entertainers and speakers. Lastly I would like to thank the Relay committee this year, especially the guys at TVEPA and Justin Pope, for all your hard work.

If you’d like to form a team or get involved with Relay for Life, please call me at 662-303-8688.