By Monique Roth

L’Observateur

LUTCHER – Cartoon campsites filled Lutcher Park as teams ranging from Mickey and Minnie Mouse to Dr. Seuss and the Ninja Turtles all came together to “Toon Out Cancer” for the St. James Parish Relay for Life.

With support from dedicated individuals, teams, sponsors and committee members, St. James Parish’s Relay raised more than $151,000 throughout the year, with more money still being received.

Committee members from businesses across the parish worked year-round to plan and promote this year’s event, which attracted 20 teams and hundreds of participants who contributed not only on event night, but also throughout the year through active involvement in the many fundraisers facilitated by teams.

Several fun competitions were held throughout Relay night to encourage participation from teams and the crowd.

This year, several teams were awarded for their fundraising efforts, tasty treats and creative campsites.

“The event itself is such a neat experience,” said Allison Nosacka, a third year participant as a member of Team Louque, which was formed to honor Melvin “Cacoon” Louque. “There is such a feeling of family and community, and we are all there to celebrate, to remember and to fight back.”

With the support of American Cancer Society Community Representative Ashlie Ming, this year’s committee included Rachel Becnel, Trista Brazan, Lindsay Chauvin, Haley Deroche, Mary Lyann Detillier, Gay Duhon, Charlotte Hooker, Tania Louque, Tessie Louque, Rodie Martin, Jackie McCreary, Denise Moran, Scott Riley, Kassie S. Roussel, Brandi Sieber, Margaret Simon, Pam Thibodaux and Ashley Tucker.