Et cetera : Redlingers continue Emma\'s Camp Wapsie tradition; candy bar sales today

Visiting Camp Waspsie was among Emma Redlinger’s favorite summer activities, and she was even featured in a photo in a flier for the camp.

After her death last year, the Camp Wapsie leaders set up a memorial bench in her honor.

“The kids all put messages to Emma on the dowels and then pounded them into the bench,” says Emma’s mom, Aimee.

Emma’s younger brother, Luke, continues to attend the camp. This month, he is also helping the camp with a candy bar fund-raiser. Luke and Aimee will be selling the candy bars this afternoon at Ehlingher’s Vinton Express convenience store from noon to 2 p.m.

Anniversary approaching

Emma died on Feb. 28, 2015. Aimee hopes her friends will approach the anniversary not with grief, but happy memories of Emma and the things she loved to do.

"Sadness and grief only perpetuates more sadness and grief. Remember good things and stay positive," says Aimee. "Those are words to live by."