On Saturday, December 5, 2020, an Evening of Remembrance will be held to honor those who have been killed or injured on North Carolina highways. The ceremony and candlelight vigil will take place at 4:30 p.m. and be held in front of the Henderson County Historic Courthouse located at 1 Historic Courthouse Square. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is hosting the ceremony in partnership with the Hendersonville Police Department.

“This evening is a way for families to remember those they have lost as we enter the holidays,” said MADD representative and Senior Crime Victim Advocate Ellen Pitt. “When families are unable to attend, local law enforcement step up to represent the victims. It’s a moving sight when the community comes together to raise awareness and provide support to the families and friends of victims we have lost over the years.”

Each year, Ellen Pitt and MADD host a ceremony in Western North Carolina as an opportunity for families and friends to honor their loved ones. This year’s ceremony in downtown Hendersonville will be held outdoors and is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and practice public health precautions.

“Driving while impaired is a 100% preventable crime,” said Ellen Pitt. “We don’t want anyone to take a chance that could lead to another person being honored at our vigil.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 10,000 people die every year in drunk-driving crashes. Additional statistics and information about MADD’s mission is available at https://www.madd.org/.

Questions about the 2020 Evening of Remembrance may be directed to Ellen Pitt at ellen.t.pitt@gmail.com.