NORWICH – As the 21st Relay for Life of Chenango County slowly approaches, the Relay committee have set their sights on bringing the event 'back-to-basics,' but with one major modification.

This summer, Relay for Life will take to East Park in the City of Norwich for the first time ever – instead of the old site of the Chenango County Fairgrounds.

According to Marie DeSarro of Relay for Life of Chenango County's Public Relations, the change was made in an effort to bring more exposure to the event while staying true to its primary purpose.

“Over the last 21 years, the event has gotten so big and there has been so much going on that we just want to downsize a little bit this year and remember why we're here: to raise money, raise awareness, and walk all night long,” said DeSarro.

“One thing people don't necessarily realize about Relay is that anyone can come down and walk and raise awareness whether they are registered or not,” said DeSarro. “At the fairgrounds we were a little hidden, but we're hoping in downtown Norwich there will be more a little more exposure and a little more participants.”

At its kick-off meeting Tuesday, Feb. 14 in the Community Room at SUNY Morrisville Norwich Extension, Relay for Life of Chenango County announced some of the changes that will take effect this year, as well as this year's goals and theme: back-to-basics.