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Relay for Life to take place Saturday in Tamaqua

The Relay for Life tradition continues for the entire Anthracite Region on Saturday at the Tamaqua Area High School stadium.

Teams, survivors, care givers and the public are invited to attend and walk during the event organized by the Cancer Telethon Organization, an all-volunteer organization based in Schuylkill County and with an office in Lansford.

Gates will open at 5 p.m. for registration. At that time, “Polka Joe” Manjack from the WMGH radio station will begin a live broadcast.

Opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. followed by a performance from the band Hatter at 7 p.m.

The luminaria service starts at 8 p.m., and luminaria bags will be on sale at the event to adorn the track. The event closes at 9:30 p.m.

The service will feature remarks by two-time cancer survivor and recent Tamaqua graduate Alexis Jones. Jones survived both child and adult ovarian cancers.

At Tamaqua Area High School, Jones was part of the cross-country, track and girls’ wrestling teams. She will share the story of her cancer journey to give others hope and encouragement. Jones plans to attend Cedar Crest College to study pediatric health sciences.

The luminaria service is a traditional and favorite part of the event. Local entertainers offer live, heartfelt performances and everyone is offered a candle to carry around the track.

The survivor and luminaria services will also feature a live bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace,” and vocal performances by local musician Jason DeMarco and Pennsylvania Miss Amazing Junior Queen Reily Bauer.

Food and drink will be available for purchase, and a basket raffle will be held to benefit the Relay fundraising.

The event will be chaired by longtime Relay volunteer Pat Walker. Walker is part of the family that owns Walker’s Tree Farm in Lehighton.

The traditional Relay theme of “Celebrate! Remember. Fight Back!” will be expressed throughout the program.

There is no admission charge and no need to register in advance.

Walker said the Relay Committee is hopeful people will form teams, walk, raise money and contribute.

“We just want people to come, show up — and show support for our survivors and remember those lost — by walking the oval,” said Donna Mullen, longtime Relay committee member. “When here, we hope people will consider buying a luminaria bag or two to place along the track. Luminaria can also be purchased online in advance or from any CancerTelethon volunteer.”

For more information, to donate or to volunteer, contact Walker at acschairperson@yahoo.com or 484-629-2713.

Live entertainment from the band Hatter will be featured at Saturday’s Relay for Life at the Tamaqua Area High School stadium. Shown are, from left, members George Parr, Dylan Heft, Jordan Marsh and Cody Schuch. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Relay for Life will be held Saturday at the Tamaqua Area High School stadium. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO