The Calhoun County Relay For Life is sending out a county-wide invitation, asking everyone to participate on Thursday, June 7 in the Relay beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Calhoun County Courthouse Square in Rockwell City. This year’s theme, “Lights-Camera-Take Action,” shines the spotlight on the impact cancer has on everyone’s life. “Just as so many of us have been touched by moments on the big screen, almost everyone has been impacted by cancer in some way,” says Tom Blomberg, Senior Manager, Community Development with the American Cancer Society. “This year alone, more than 17,700 people in Iowa will be diagnosed with cancer, and there are approximately 300 Calhoun County residents currently fighting cancer,” Blomberg says. This will be the second year the Relay is being held in Rockwell City, and organizers say that they stuck with this location again after receiving quite a bit of positive feedback. “Many people who joined us last year commented on how much they enjoyed the change of pace from walking a track and appreciated a weeknight event with a variety of food vendors,” says Joleen Schmit, chair of this year’s Relay. “We are having so much fun planning the red-carpet evening and encouraging participants and teams to embrace the Hollywood theme in their set-up areas and elsewhere,” she adds. Family-friendly fun is on that agenda with inflatables, temporary tattoos and a “Preview” kiddie parade as a reminder to all of the ultimate goal of eliminating cancer for future generations. The evening will also celebrate cancer survivors with their own “Walk of Fame” lap and Survivor’s ceremony. The “Closing Credits” Luminaria will be held at dusk in honor of those fighting cancer and those who have lost their battle. The Relay will also feature a prayer tent, dance performances and musical entertainment from the Rockin’ 88s.
