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Relay goes on the road to Jewell

JEWELL – Teams of walkers set up tents and gathering sites in the infield of the South Hamilton High School track Friday. The warm, breezy summer night meant few mosquitoes and favorable conditions for making laps around the track.

The Hamilton County Relay for Life, which for years has been held in Webster City, moved to Jewell this year.

Relay for Life Committee members Bev Huisman, Joyce Gelhaus and Susan Leman welcomed the teams and those who attended to watch the relay. Elaine Van Langen, a 26-year cancer survivor, was introduced as the honorary chairperson of the 2013 event. Her family members led off the survivors lap and she followed in a golf cart driven by her husband, Alvin. Dozens of other survivors joined in the procession, some walking, some riding in carts, as the song “We Are The Champions” was played over the loud speakers.

Pat Nokes, Relay Committee treasurer, said approximately $39,000 was raised this year, but added additional funds are still coming in.

“We’ll probably see some more funds continuing to come in,” she said.

Approximately 15 teams took part in this year’s Relay.

The event continued until 10:45 p.m. with special laps and games presented throughout the evening. Luminaria honoring or memorializing those who have fought cancer, were lit with tea lights. The names of those being honored were read aloud in a special ceremony.

Capping off the evening were fireworks, provided by the Williams Lions Club Team.

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