Candlelight even to remember those who have died of HIV/AIDS

STAFF REPORT

WARREN — The Trumbull County Area AIDS Task Force will observe the 25th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial on May 18 in downtown Warren.

The Mahoning Valley observance will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the log cabin in Veterans Memorial Park across from Courthouse Square Park. At 8:30 p.m., it will move to the gazebo in the park.

The theme of this year’s international event is “Never Give up, Never Forget.”

The program will include a congregational reading, songs, poetry and a presentation with candles. Opening remarks will be made by William “Doug” Franklin, Warren’s safety-service director.

Music will be provided by area artists. The program will feature participation of the public, political and medical officials; students from the Trumbull campus of Kent State University; partners, parents, siblings and friends of those who have died.

The task force and clergy from Christ Episcopal Church in Warren will offer prayers and reflections. At the gazebo, names will be read of those who have died of HIV/AIDS, especially Mahoning Valley residents, who now number more than 255.

Those who want a victim remembered should call (330) 399-AIDS or the event coordinator at (330) 307-4800. There will also be an opportunity that evening to add names.