Events and Activities : Relay for Life set for June 1; information on luminarias offered

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Benton County will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 1, 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 honors 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 volunteers in their area 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.

Sponsors are: Hope ($600+): Watkins Savings Bank, The Star Press Union and Belle Plaine Rotary Club; Faith ($400 - $599): Iowa Mold & Engineering, Atkins Lumber Co., Cedar Valley Farms LLC and Rausch Financial Services; Courage ($200 - $399): Atkins Savings Bank & Trust, Rabe Hardware, Dr. Mark Siebrecht, Van Horne Cooperative Telephone Co., Clingman Pharmacy, Eden Mutual Insurance, LaGrange Pharmacy, Virginia Gay Hospital, Country Foods, Coon Creek Telephone Co., UI Healthcare, Coots Material, Vinton Noon Kiwanis, Vinton Lions Club and Benton County Chapter of Thrivent 31120.