DAYTON-Newly elected Dayton High School Alumni Association President Cara Watts has some ideas about how to infuse the association's coffers with some much-needed cash so that giving back to DHS students can continue.

"I don't think people understand how much the Dayton Alumni Association gives back," she said.

Historically, the association has provided funds through membership dues, donations and memorials, for Youth and Government, FBLA, uniforms for Dayton cheerleaders, and scholarships for higher education.

This year DAA was unable to provide money for any new scholarships, due in part to dwindling membership, Watts said.

"It was the smallest alumni parade I think they've had in a long time," she said.

Watts has some ideas to help. She wants people to know that anybody can donate to the Dayton Alumni Association.

"Anyone can; you don't have to be a Dayton Alumni. It can be anonymous or not," she said.

She said memorials can be set up through the association, as well.

Watts showed off examples of plaques the Alumni Association is selling engraved with the Dayton bulldog mascot and graduation year. Former DHS students are encouraged to buy one with their graduation year as a memento, and to support the Alumni Association scholarship fund. The price is $36, or more if the purchaser would like to add a donation.

The plaques were made locally by Stephen Gregg, of Stephen's Woodcraft, in Dayton, out of wood milled by local resident Steve Radebaugh. Gregg and Radebaugh will donate a portion of the sales to the Alumni Association.

For information about donating to the Dayton Alumni Association, or to purchase a plaque, contact Cara Watts by phone at: (509) 520-1703. Donations can also be sent to the Dayton Alumni Association at: P. O. Box 314, Dayton.