The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

Dear Editor: I am writing today to invite everyone in our area to join me at the upcoming American Cancer Society Blue Mountain Relay For Life, which is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 18-19, at the Dayton Sports Complex.

The Blue Mountain Re­lay For Life will once again raise funds for the American Cancer Society, while also raising awareness of a dis­ease

that will be diagnosed in more than 34,000 men, women and children in our state before the end of this year.

One of the most moving and emotional times during the Relay is the luminaria ceremony, where hundreds of luminaria are placed around the inside lane of the track.

Each luminaria is pur­chased in honor of a friend, family member or co-worker who has either been diag­nosed with cancer or has passed away from the dis­ease. At 9 p.m. on Saturday night, the candles will be lit in each luminaria, and the lights of the Sports Complex will be dimmed. Then each name represented on the lu­minaria will be read aloud as the Relay teams continue to walk around the track. This ceremony brings home the reason why we continue to hold Relay For Life every year. It is to re­member those who have died from cancer and to continue work for a cure for those still bravely fighting the battle. For those who wish to purchase a luminaria for the American Cancer Society Blue Mountain Relay For Life, please contact Delphine Bailey at (509) 520-1756. I look forward to seeing every­one at the event.

Donna Hanger,Luminaria ChairDayton