×

Relay for Life returns

40 cancer survivors set to attend event

—Daily Freeman-Journal File photo The 2016 American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Hamilton County kicked off last June with the Survivor’s Walk. This year’s event begins Thursday at 6 p.m. at West Twin Park. Registration begins at 5 p.m.

Nearly 40 cancer survivors will be in attendance at this year’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Hamilton County. The annual event kicks off Thursday at West Twin Park at 6 p.m. Pre-registration is from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

During opening ceremonies, the American Legion will present the colors, say a prayer, and “The Star Spangled Banner” will be sung.

The Survivor Walk will begin right after the opening ceremony at 6:15 p.m. It will take place on Bank and Water Street. Both streets will be closed off to traffic.

This year’s Honorary Survivor is Jodene Firsching, of Webster City. Firsching will have the honor of leading the first lap of the Survivors Walk.

“It’s a great way to your support for anyone fighting cancer,” said Finance Chairman Pat Nokes.

The Luminary Service will begin at 9 p.m. Those who wish to purchase a luminary in memory of a loved one can do so for a suggested donation of $10. If anyone wishes to purchase a luminary for their loved one, but won’t be in attendance Thursday night, they can contact Nokes at (515) 290-8083. Luminaries can also be purchased the night of the event until 8:30 p.m.at West Twin Park.

According to Nokes, all four banking institutions in Webster City also have the luminary form.

“Proceeds from the fundraiser go towards cancer research,” Nokes said.

According to cancer survivor and Relay for Life Survivor Chairman, Joyce Gelhaus, this is a wonderful cause to support.

“It’s a good time to meet your neighbors, support survivors, and get involved in some volunteer work within the community, Gelhaus said. “I’m a survivor myself and I greatly appreciated the support that I received as a survivor,” said Gelhaus.

There will also be a silent auction at the event. There will be an assortment of items to bid on including baked goods, concert tickets, lawn ornaments and gift certificates.

There will be activities for all ages at West Twin Park throughout the night. Kids will be able to create chalk drawings. There will be a bouncy house for youth, hula hoops, a football toss, yard games, face painting and martial arts demonstrations.

“It’s a family event,” said Nokes. “Come out to the park and bring the kids.”

For more information about Relay for Life Hamilton County, contact Bev Huisman at (515) 835-0659.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $3.46/week.

Subscribe Today