Falling Leaves run goes Saturday

The Falling Leaves run event in support of the Bracelet of Hope takes place Saturday Oct. 13 at the University of Guelph’s Arboretum.

The day features several races, and things get started at 8:30 a.m.

There will be a trail half-marathon, a 5km race, a 7.5km race and a free kids’ race with a distance of one kilometre.

After those runs, at approximately 11 a.m., the Gryphon New Balance Vic Matthews Open takes place featuring university cross-country runners.

The Gryphons’ men’s and women’s cross-country teams are both currently ranked No. 1 in the nation.

For more information or to register, visit guelphvictors.ca or call 519-341-6189.

AIDS workers give series of talks

A couple who have been working on the front lines of the AIDS pandemic in Lesotho are coming to the city for a speaking tour of Guelph and the surrounding areas over the next couple of weeks.

Pastor James Qhobela and Mrs. Matsepo Qhobela work in Lesotho as leaders of two programs to care for some of the country’s AIDS orphans, a news release said.

They are part of the Apostolic Faith Mission Social Development Division, a partner organization of Guelph-based Bracelet of Hope.

Under the AFMSDD, the Qhobelas lead a Foster Home Programme to allow AIDS orphans to be cared for in their own communities, and a Mobile Mom Programme to provide an adult presence in child-headed households, the release said.

The Qhobelas will be speaking at schools, churches, service clubs and workplaces in the area and will be hosted by more than 20 different families in the community. Opportunities to hear them speak include:

Oct. 14 at Grace Community Church, 7427 Wellington County Rd. 30, during Sunday services at 9:30 and 11 a.m.

Oct. 20 at The Bookshelf, 41 Quebec St., at a 2:30 p.m. event that will include a screening of the AIDS documentary Life, Above All.

Oct. 21 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 161 Norfolk St., during Sunday service at 10:30 a.m.

Oct. 24 at Grace Community Church during a dessert evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Admission will support the Qhobela’s Lesotho Foster Home Programme.

The speaking tour is hosted by Bracelet of Hope. For more information, contact executive director Anne Gardner at 226-326-4673 or visit www.braceletofhope.ca.