Relay luminarias available to purchase

It?s time to join the community in the fight against cancer. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life will be held June 1-2, from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. at Warren County Middle School. Because Relay is a community even, everyone is encouraged to participate.

Teams of people in our community will take turns walking or running around the track in the non-competitive event. Relay teams consist of individuals representing corporations, churches, clubs, organizations and families. During Relay for Life, team members enjoy games, food, music and camaraderie while camping out on the grounds. Warren County?s 2007 goal is $140,000.

A special luminaria ceremony will be held at 10 p.m. for all participants to share in an effort to remember those who have been affected by cancer. Candles will be lit in honor or memory of cancer patients and placed around the perimeter of the track.

All are invited to support this effort by ordering a luminaria in honor of a loved one who has been touched by cancer. Simply fill out a luminaria form in the Southern Standard and mail to the specified address, or contact Melinda Cooper at 931-815-3660.

This year, it is estimated that more than 1,500 people each day will die from cancer. More than 1.44 million new cases of cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2007. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United states, and one of every three deaths is from cancer.

Relay represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported and that one day cancer will be eliminated.