After a successful kick-off back in December, Marengo County Relay for Life organizers are gearing up for several meetings in preparation for the annual event.

“Businesses can still register teams, and we are still trying to get the word out there for everyone to register their team,” event chair Doris Stephens.

Stephens will serve as chair for the first time this year, though she helped with Relay in 2012 as well.

Stephens said there are several businesses she knows will participate, but others are encouraged to sign up as well.

This year’s Relay for Life will have the theme, “Teaming Up for a Cure.” It will be held on the night of May 10.

The first meeting for committees and team captains is Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. respectively at Rooster Hall.

There were at least 17 teams from last year that Stephens hopes will participate in again. However, this year, they want to have 50 teams.

“There are a few more people I have been talking to, but since its the first of the year I really want to pick up the momentum,” Stephens said.

Stephens is also beginning to make preparations for the entertainment and setup of the event, she said.

“I think it is definitely going to be an awesome event,” she said.

Alongside the meetings, there are other things forthcoming people can look for in preparations for Relay.

Survivor’s Sunday is a special event that usually occurs in March. The Sunday grants churches a time to hold ceremonies to remember and honor those in their congregations who have or have had cancer.

In addition, schools and churches should be aware there are no age limits on those who can participate in the fundraising event as long as a group has a sponsoring adult.

School clubs and church groups can participate by raising funds and coming to the event on the night of Relay for Life.

The committee and team captain meeting dates to follow include: Feb. 11, March 11 and April 8. The T-shirt order deadline is April 8. Those meetings are also at 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m at Rooster Hall.

Those interested in updates about the meetings should register a team at www.relayforlife.org/marengoal.