Red Kettle 5K Run

     Central Iowa runners have begun registering for the Salvation Army Red Kettle 5K Run scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 3. The run will begin at 9 a.m. at Raccoon River Park in West Des Moines.
        This is the Salvation Army’s first attempt at a running event in Des Moines. Its purpose is to acquaint the community with the organization and to promote the 2012 Red Kettle campaign that begins on Nov. 9.
        The registration fee for the run will be five (family size) personal items for The Salvation Army’s two Des Moines food pantries. Personal items include bath soap, shampoo, toothpaste and tooth brushes, facial and toilet tissue, feminine hygiene product, etc., or $10.  One box of disposable diapers or one can of infant formula will count as five individual products.
        Registration can be done online. A link is provided on the home page of the local Salvation Army website at www.salvationarmy-desmoines.org.
        A link is also provided for individuals who want to volunteer to assist with the 5K run.
        Erin Bemis, well known in the local running community, is the coordinator of the race. She is working with a committee of other local runners and Amara Hartley, The Salvation Army's Special Events and Volunteer Coordinator.  Planning began last spring.