Berlin Turning Pink This Month

BERLIN -- In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month this October, the Worcester County chapter of Women Supporting Women (WSW) will once again be holding a candlelight vigil in Berlin on Friday, Oct. 14.

“We’re getting ready to turn the town pink,” joked Rota Knott, Coordinator of the WSW Worcester Chapter.

Based in Berlin, the Worcester Chapter was founded in 1998, though this is only the second year it has done Turn the Town Pink (TTP), a string of events throughout October which includes the candlelight vigil.

“It’s a month long thing,” said Knott of TTP.

While most of the activities are unconfirmed or still in the planning stage, Knott was confident that a lot more will be done this year than last, all with the goal of raising awareness about breast cancer. Whatever the other activities, the vigil is confirmed and serves to exemplify the WSW’s month-long message in one night of remembrance for those who have lost their struggle with breast cancer.

Last year the vigil, which begins in the Farmer’s Market parking lot and ends in front of the Atlantic Hotel, attracted about 50 people. Knott is hoping that number will double or more this year, which may mean a section of Main Street will need to be closed for the event, though no official decision has been made by the town yet.

Even if a portion of the road is sealed, however, town officials don’t except the closing to last more than 15 minutes or so.

Knott revealed that community support behind the vigil and the rest of the events has impressed her.

“I don’t have to ask for anything,” she said, explaining that town officials and the business community has been quick to volunteer to help TTP.

Mayor Gee Williams commented on the event, stating that Berlin is always glad to help organizations like WSW, especially since they’re located only a stone’s throw away from the heart of town.

“Whenever we can, we want to support those charities based in our community,” he said.

Williams noted that WSW has “really set up a great support network” with area businesses as well, a statement Knott agreed with. She explained that more than 20 businesses have already signed up to help raise awareness in October, with more expected before the month is over.

WSW will take the next step in preparing to turn Berlin pink by hanging pink ribbons along town streets and in merchant shops this morning.

For more information about WSW and TTP, contact Knott at 410-641-2849.