Early registration extended for Drug Free Relay

A computer glitch is providing a break for people who missed the original early sign up deadline for the 12th annual Drug Free Relay.

The early registration deadline has been extended to Sept. 10. All teams registering by then will receive a $25 discount from the standard $350 entry fee. The previous deadline was Sept. 1 but is being extended because of minor problems with the Drug Free Relay’s website, www.drugfreerelay.org. The web site is now running smoothly, said Don Kellogg, co-chair of the relay.

All money raised at the relay will again be spent on community programs and scholarships to promote drug- and alcohol-free lifestyles.

A motivational speaker is being brought in for the days leading up to the relay for the third year in a row. Syd Muzzy, a traffic safety education consultant from Vancouver, Wash., will be the speaker. Muzzy will talk about traffic safety and the perils of drinking and driving. Muzzy earlier worked for the state of Washington as a traffic safety educator.

He is also an award-winning educator who has worked as a high school teacher for 34 years; served as a school vice principal and athletic director; and coached volleyball, basketball, wrestling, track and golf.

Muzzy will give a free public presentation at 7 p.m. Sept. 16 at La Grande High School. He will also speak at schools throughout Union County during his Sept. 16-17 visit.

This year’s relay will have several new features including a three-on-three basketball tournament. The tournament will be conducted during the relay at Central Elementary School’s outdoor basketball court. Central is adjacent to the LHS track.

Relay additions will also include a booth run by the Union County Prevention Committee. Information will be provided to parents about preventing drug use and alcohol problems. Keith Walker of Grande Ronde Recovery will give a presentation on behalf of the Union County Prevention Committee.

To register for the relay or for additional information visit its web site, www.drugfreerelay.org or call Pam 663-3397, Don 963-6085 or Ryan 963-2200.