Events and Activities : Benton County Relay For Life

Luminaria - To honor and remember

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Benton County will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 3, at the Vinton Shellsburg High School Track, Vinton.

One important aspect of the relay is the opportunity for people in the county to come together to remember loved ones lost to cancer and honor those who are fighting now or have won their battle.

At dusk, the night will be brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called luminaria circling the track. Each bag will bear the name of someone who has battled cancer. Some celebrate cancer survivors, while others honor and remember those gone too soon. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor. Each name will be read during the ceremony.

Anyone wishing to get a luminaria for a loved one can contact the American Cancer Society volunteer in your community or Sally Donald (228-8148) for a form.

The committee is asking everyone attending the relay to bring a can of food (approx. 14 ounces). These cans will hold the candle in the bag and then will be donated to the food banks in the county.

There will also be a silent auction at the relay. Contact Tami Fisher (454-6138) if you have a donation.

Sponsors for the relay to date are Hope ($600+): Betterton Family Chiropractic, Watkins Savings Bank, The Star-Press Union and Belle Plaine Rotary Club; Courage ($200+): Atkins Lumber Co., Atkins Savings Bank & Trust, Rabe Hardware, Dr. Mark Siebrecht, Rausch Financial Services, Van Horne Cooperative Telephone Co., Clingman Pharmacy, Eden Mutual Insurance, LaGrange Pharmacy, Virginia Gay Hospital, Country Foods, Coon Creek Telephone Co., Wilson/Hite Insurance, UI Health Care and Thrivent Financial.