The actual Relay for Life of Washington Parish doesn’t begin until noon on Friday, but the 22 teams that represent businesses, families and individuals in the community have already raised close to $20,000 for the American Cancer Society’s fight against the disease.

The current bottom line is $18,176, but the big push, not to mention what amounts to a major multi-family gathering, will take place from noon Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday at Cassidy Park in Bogalusa.

Long-time project Chair Michelle Goode said she expects to reach this year’s fundraising goal of $65,000.

“Oh yes, absolutely,” she said. “We’re probably going to surpass it as long as the weather holds out.”

Besides the fact that the proceeds will fund ACS research and programs, making it a cause that matters to many, this year’s attractions will include an always-popular dunking booth, a game trailer with video game access and a Bump and Jump for the kids.

People will also be able to have someone “arrested” by local law enforcement in return for “bail.” And that’s just a sampling of the fun, Goode said.

Additionally, many of the teams will offer a wide variety of items and experiences for raffle. Plus, there will be all kinds of food and drink available for purchase. They include smoked chicken, chili buns, nachos, popcorn, cookies, cakes, coffee, water and soft drinks.

Significantly, there will also be the opportunity for people to honor anyone they know who has been lost to cancer or anyone who is currently battling the disease by lighting a luminary in his or her honor. The cost for a luminary bag, which purchasers can decorate, is $10.

Goode said the cancer survivor lap will begin at 6 p.m., and registration will begin at 5 p.m. She urges all survivors to take part.

Goode also encourages everyone to join the gathering at the performance pavilion in Cassidy Park Friday to join others in Washington Parish who are taking up arms in the fight against cancer.