Warren County Relay for Life on June 2 is going to end with a bang, along with some ooh-ing and aah-ing.
“We would like to do fireworks after the luminarias ceremony this year to conclude our Relay event,” said Carla Savage, one of the Relay for Life organizers. “The event begins at 5 p.m. Our luminaria ceremony begins at 10 p.m. After we read the luminarias, we would like to do a little firework display to end the event.”
The request was made to McMinnville officials due to an ordinance that restricts the use of fireworks. Board members unanimously granted an exception. In attendance were Mayor Jimmy Haley, Vice Mayor Ben Newman, and Aldermen Everett Brock, Steve Harvey, Ryle Chastain and Mike Neal.
Warren County Relay for Life, which celebrates everyone who’s been affected by cancer, begins at 5 p.m. with an opening ceremony at 7 p.m.
The survivors lap begins at 7:20 p.m. Organizers say survivors define courage and inspire those facing a cancer diagnosis. Their strength is honored with each step they take around the first lap. If you know anyone who has overcome cancer, invite them to join.
The caregivers lap begins at 7:25 p.m. Caring for others is a selfless act, organizers says, which is why caregivers are being honored with a lap. They often walk with the person they’ve supported.
The luminaria ceremony begins at 10 p.m. Each luminaria bag represents a loved one lost to cancer, brings support to those affected by it, and honors survivors. This powerful moment gives people the opportunity to grieve but also offers hope and comfort.
Relay for Life events, which are staffed and coordinated by volunteers in more than 5,200 communities and 27 countries, bring communities together to remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers, and raise money and help end the pain and suffering of cancer. The event is the signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
Nathan Smith will be in charge of managing the consumer-grade fireworks display.