Menifee Residents Show They Care in Relay for Life

Participants in the Menifee Relay for Life could decorate ribbons in honor of cancer victims during Saturday's event. Menifee 247 photos: Kaylee Faucher

Local residents maintained an annual tradition for a worthy cause Saturday in the 10th annual Menifee Relay for Life, a 24-hour event that continues through Sunday morning in the Paloma Valley High School football stadium.

Nearly 25 teams of volunteers walked laps around the track and sold items in booths in the infield to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Many of those who participated were supporting cancer survivors, honoring cancer victims or are cancer survivors themselves.

More than $54,000 had been raised even before the event through pledges and fundraisers. While raising more this weekend, participants also were raising awareness of cancer and the need to fund further research and treatment.

One of the teams participating was Team Sal, organized four years ago after Menifee resident Sal Aguirre was diagnosed with cancer. According to team co-captain Jennifer Johnston, Team Sal was the largest team in the event four years ago with 80 members. This year another large group has a goal of $5,000 in the name of Aguirre, who is in remission.

The event began with Opening Ceremonies Saturday morning, including the presentation of colors by the Paloma Valley High NJROTC, national anthem sung by Vangie Gunn, proclamation by Mayor Scott Mann and appearance by guest speaker Vicki Neilson. That was followed by the traditional first lap by cancer survivors and caregivers.

One of the highlights of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony, scheduled for 9 p.m. In the darkness, the track is lined with illuminated bags labeled with the names of cancer victims and survivors. The ceremony features guest speaker Kelly French and a silent lap with bagpipes performers.

Participants set up tents in the infield in order to spend the night in the stadium as they take turns continuing to walk laps around the track.

Entertainment during the event included the Resonate Vocal Group, Neil Morros Band, Temecula Dance Company, Starlight Singers, Sorry for the Inconvenients and Midnight Comics.