The American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay For Life of Tamaqua and Surrounding Communities held their "Power of Purple" pre-event party over the weekend in honor of those who survived cancer, as well as to remind people of their June Relay For Life.

The Power of Purple event, which was held at the Hometown Fire Company, consisted of music, games, dancing, door prizes, giveaways and food.Caylan Chanwik, Income Development Representative for the Carbon-Tamaqua Chapter of the American Cancer Society, said the event was held to share the importance of Relay For Life in saving lives from cancer. "Relay For Life is as much an awareness raiser about the progress against cancer as it is a fundraiser," said Chanwik. "Individuals who are willing to give their time and energy to this exciting event, as a volunteer or participant, have made a commitment to fight back against this disease and let the community know that you can beat cancer."Chanwik also stated her excitement in bringing the Relay back to a local stadium this year, which will be held at the Panther Valley Football Stadium on June 22 and 23.The free event is open to everyone and will run from 2 p.m. on Friday to 2 p.m. on Saturday.Relay For Life organizers encourage everyone to stop by at any time during the Relay and enjoy food, music, entertainment and activities. Special ceremonies will also be held to honor local cancer survivors and remember those we've lost.For more information on ACS Relay or if you would like to volunteer on the Relay For Life committee or start a team, contact Chanwik at (570) 645-2162 or (888) 227-5445 x3112. Mary Ann Dulaney also reminded people about the ACS's raffle for a 2012 Ford Fiesta, which will be on display at the relay, and sponsored by Rottet Motors to benefit the American Cancer Society Telethon. For more information about the raffle contact Dulaney at (570) 645-4228 or via Facebook.The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Relay For Life is the signature event of the American Cancer Society. It is a fun-filled overnight event that mobilizes communities throughout the country to celebrate survivors (anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer), remember loved ones,and raise money to fight back against cancer. Teams of eight to 15 members gather with tents and sleeping bags to participate in the largest fundraising walk in the nation. Chanwik added, "Our Relay For Life brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools and churches." "Teams seek sponsorship prior to the Relay, all with the goal of eliminating cancer."