EPHRATA - Local public safety agencies are hosting the annual "Chief for a Day" event at 2 p.m. Thursday on the front lawn of the Grant County Courthouse, 35 C St. NW in Ephrata.

The event celebrates the lives of eight children from across the county, each of whom "endures and overcomes considerable physical or developmental challenges every day," according to event organizers. Each child is honored and acts as the chief of a local law enforcement or fire agency for the duration of the celebration day.

"This is a really great and important occasion, and each year the experience is heartwarming," stated Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones. "The public and our partnering agencies always show the greatest support for these special kids."

The event is hosted by the Grant County Sheriff's Office, Ephrata Police Department, Quincy Police Department, Moses Lake Police Department, Soap Lake Police Department, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement, the Washington State Patrol and the Ephrata Fire Department.

The ceremony includes presentations by heads of those agencies, the Grant County Board of County Commissioners, Superior Court Judges and other dignitaries.

The event is sponsored by the Thomas A. Boruff Foundation, an Ephrata-based nonprofit organization focused on assisting special needs children in the U.S. and Mexico, Jones stated.

For information on Chief for a Day, contact the Sheriff's Office at 509-754-2011 extension 468.