Vinton Relay for Life “Paints the Town Purple”
VINTON–Members of the Vinton Relay for Life Committee and the William Byrd High School cheerleaders gathered at the Farmer’s Market on April 7 to “Paint the Town Purple”. They dispersed throughout the Town decorating poles, benches, and signs with over 400 purple ribbons. Businesses were invited to participate by displaying purple, including purple and black lights to give the Town a purple glow at night.
Carolyn Williams, former co-chair of the Vinton Relay for Life, helps Willliam Byrd High School cheerleaders "Paint the Town Purple" to raise awareness of the event coming up on April 20 at WBHS and to honor and support cancer victims and survivors. (left to right) Carolyn Williams, Paige Burcham, and Lauren Cook.
“Paint the Town Purple” has become a national American Cancer Society event to raise awareness in communities and to honor and support cancer victims and survivors. Purple is the universal color that represents all types of cancer.
On April 20, 2012, the Vinton Relay for Life will celebrate its fifth year. Thirty-eight teams have signed up with 373 participants. As of April 7, the teams had raised $40,250. This year’s goal is $100,000.
Vinton was awarded the 2011 #1 Per Capita for the State of Virginia with $86,272 in donations.
Vinton is unique in that every Vinton school is participating: Herman L. Horn Elementary, W. E. Cundiff Elementary, William Byrd Middle School, and William Byrd High School have all formed teams. The Vinton Relay will take place at the William Byrd High School stadium.
Anyone wishing to participate in the Vinton Relay for Life may contact Julie Terrell, the Community Manager for the Vinton event from the American Cancer Society at julie.terrell@cancer.org or call 540-774-2716.
By Debbie Adams
