“Cha-ching” went the Relay for Life bank Tuesday as area teams turned in their fundraising collections and logging in a whopping $62,832.12.

“That brings us to a grand total so far of $98,918.12.” said Relay’s Ressie Gray. “We are so excited, and we hope to take in more Friday night.”

This year’s event goal is $120,000, she said.

“We may make it, but if not, what we have is great, and it will help cancer patients and hopefully we will eventually find a cure,” she said.

This year’s Relay event, which features a 50s theme, will be held Friday at the Kiwanis Fairgrounds.

Luminary bags are on sale now, as well as the night of the event, Gray said.

“These are great to light in honor of or in the memory of that someone special,” she said. Cost is $5 each, and they are available by contacting Gray or Carrie Turner at the Covington County Board of Education at 222-7571 or Jennifer Lewis at 222-0533.

“We will also have Relay items such as vintage T-shirts for $1 and other Relay merchandise on sale,” she said.

All survivors are welcome to attend the annual supper, she said.

A full concession stand will also be open during the evening, she said.

“And of course, we’ll have ‘Elvis’ and local band entertaining us,” she said. “It’s going to be great.”

Opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m.