By Lori EhdeJust in time for this weekend’s Rock County Relay for Life, fund-raisers have passed their $35,000 goal and set a new "stretch" goal of $42,000."We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from businesses and the fund-raising efforts of our teams," said Relay For Life Chairman, Vicki Baartman.Rock County’s first Relay for Life raised $44,000 for the American Cancer Society, and last year it raised $49,000. But Baartman said organizers set a lower goal this year, anticipating economic conditions would affect donations.But teams have been especially creative with their fund-raisers this year, and donors have been more generous than expected, all indicating another successful Relay for Life this weekend.Corporate sponsors who gave more than $1,000 include the City of Luverne, Glen’s Food Center, Minnwest Bank, Luverne Community Hospital, Sioux Valley Clinic Luverne and Tony’s Catering.There are 26 teams and roughly 400 walkers lined up for Relay for Life, which is the American Cancer Society’s premier fund-raiser for cancer research and programs to support cancer patients.The event starts 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 20, in the Luverne City Park with a dinner provided by Glen’s Food Center. The meal will be served until 6:30, and opening ceremonies begin at 7 p.m. with the Survivor’s Lap.Entertainment and special events are planned throughout the evening and through the night.Entertainment includes emcees Jim Ouverson and George Bonnema, KTWB’s Chris Carter, vocalist and guitarist Eric Hagen, Spotlight Dancers, Sonshine Trio, Karen Van Wettering, Sandbulte Sisters, Tor Boen’s Praise Team, Dakota Dancers, Interactive Praise Team — Katrina Eisma.A sunrise service and closing ceremonies will be at 6:30 a.m. followed by a breakfast provided by Tony’s Catering.
