CHENANGO COUNTY – The Chenango Relay for Life Committee is stepping up preparations for the 2009 Relay, to be held July 17 and 18 at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. To get everyone in the relay spirit, the committee is asking community members to ‘go purple’ this Friday.

The Relay Committee plans a ‘Paint the Town Purple’ day on Friday. “It’s simply our request that people around Norwich and the surrounding towns in Chenango County show their support for the Relay for Life,” said event co-chair Marie DeSarro. That show of support can easily be achieved by donning purple, the official color of the relay.

Although relay events have already kicked off in Chenango County, DeSarro explained that ‘Paint the Town Purple’ day is the American Cancer Society’s official kickoff to Relay for Life season.

While committee members hope individuals will show their support for the relay, businesses, school districts and community groups are also invited to participate.