The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Tamaqua and Surrounding Communities is preparing for their Power of Purple Party this Friday in Hometown.

"We are just hoping that people come out to have a good time, support the Relay, and learn more about Relay, including possibly forming or joining a team," said Caylan Chanwik, Income Development Representative for the Carbon-Tamaqua. " Relay For Life is a great way to come together as a team of friends, family, or co-workers and fight back against cancer. The money raised by the teams is so important to funding the mission of the American Cancer Society, particularly lifesaving cancer research and all the local patient services that are offered to anyone diagnosed with cancer and their family."The purpose of the Power of Purple Party is to provide a little extra motivation to the Relay teams, and also to provide an opportunity for those who do not yet participate but might be interested, to get involved. It is usually held in March because, although fundraising and planning for the Relay For Life event (June 21st and 22nd from 2pm to 2pm at the Panther Valley football stadium in Lansford) take place year round, this is the time of year when our fundraising efforts and planning start to really ramp up, in the last few months before the Relay. The phrase, "Power of Purple," refers to the signature color of Relay For Life. This is because, just as the color purple does not represent any one particular type of cancer, the money raised through Relay For Life does not help to fund research and support for only one type of cancer, but all types of cancer.The Power of Purple event will take place this Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Hometown Fire Company. Organizers stressed that all are invited and you do not have to be a Relay For Life participant to attend.They stressed that no registration is required and to call (570) 386-8422 with any questions or to get involved.