JOHN DAY – On Friday, Oct. 3 Grant County will be “thinking pink” as it swims in a sea of pink balloons.

That’s the goal of Troy Thomas, the manager of Mountains Department Store. Thomas is spearheading a campaign to promote breast cancer awareness in the county for the second year. He’s involving as many local businesses as possible.

A bouquet of balloons, donated by Chester’s Thriftway, will float at each participant’s storefront to indicate support of the cause and to serve as a reminder for women to get tested.

Boyd Britton is donating the helium to fill the balloons.

Pink-ribbon pins will again be distributed to participating businesses to give away to their customers.

The activities are in conjunction with Lee National Denim Day, the jeans manufacturer’s breast cancer awareness promotion. Mountains supports that cause.

However, Thomas says the cause also is personal for him.

Thomas has a family history of breast cancer, and he has witnessed the hardships a local friend has endured as she has struggled to finance her treatment.

Seeing those difficulties inspired Thomas to consider creating a local foundation to help those in the community who need financial help with breast cancer treatments. The foundation is an idea-in-progress at this point.

About 20 businesses took part last year, and Thomas expects that number to increase as the campaign extends to Long Creek, Prairie City and Seneca for the first time.

New this year is a “Cut-a-Thon” led by Kimberly Walker of Hair It Is. The event will have several stylists in the area offering haircuts, with all proceeds going to the local foundation.

“This is a chance for us to do something locally,” said Thomas, who hopes to see the event grow a little each year. “We need to take care of our own.”

For more information, contact Thomas at Mountains Department Store, 575-2120.