Merle Booker to return as Relay for Life auctioneer

OTHELLO - The Columbia Basin Health Association will bring popular auctioneer Merle Booker back for its annual Relay for Life auction here on June 17. It will be held at the 14th Ave Medical Center, starting at 6 p.m.

"We're excited to be holding our annual fundraising auction so close to the actual Relay for Life Event," said CBHA auction co-chair Kelly Carlson.

Carlson and Magali Garcia are heading up the CBHA's efforts to put together "a very special auction this year". She said CBHA employees "really participate in this event" by donating great packages for participants to bid on.

Items to be sold at the auction include Seattle Mariners Tickets, a patio set, a fishing tour and dinner at Eagle Lakes Lodge, a spa at home kit, local restaurant coupons, and more donations are still coming in.

"We will have lots of delicious food and beverages to choose from," Carlson said.

Merle Booker will again serve as auctioneer. He is well known throughout the area.

"Merle is a great auctioneer. He makes everything a lot of fun and likes to keep things moving," Carlson said.

The silent auction will run from 6-7:30 p.m. The live auction is scheduled for 7:30-8:30 p.m.

All the proceeds from the auction go to Relay for Life. Special guests this year include cancer survivors and people living with cancer.

"Many of you are our patients. We see and admire your courage in dealing with all the issues you face on a daily basis as you deal with your disease," Carlson said.