Oak Forest Relay for Life Asks: Follow the Purple-Ribboned Roads

Who knew so many purple ribbons could create such an air of mystery in Oak Forest?

Each year, the American Cancer Society, as part of its effort to promote Oak Forest's Relay for Life, ties purple ribbons around the city's streets to remind residents about the fundraiser. And each year, residents ask: What's up with all the ribbons?

While the agency would love residents to immediately recognize the symbolism of the ribbons, these decorative flourishes do get people talking. And thankfully, there are places, such as Patch, that have some answers.

Here's what you need to know about Oak Forest's 2013 Relay for Life.

• When Is It? The event runs from 6 p.m. Friday, June 21, until 6 a.m. Saturday, June 22.
• Where Is It? The relay circuit runs around and behind the Oak Forest Park District building and Central Park.
• What Is the Relay for Life? The event is an American Cancer Society fundraiser that is done in communities nationwide. Participating individuals and teams raise money and then camp out overnight, taking turns walking for the relay route. Primarily thought of as a fundraiser, the relays also act as memorials for those who have suffered from cancer and a show of support for their relatives and friends. That's why it's a family-friendly event with food and entertainment.
• What Activities Will There be This Year? A kids zone will be set up with face painting, temporary tattoos and a moon jump. For adults, there will be sumo wrestling, dance performances put on by the park district, karaoke, blind volleyball and other activities.
• How Much Money Has the Oak Forest Relay Raised? As of the morning of Wednesday, June 19, $55,800 has been raised thanks to the 204 participants and 26 teams. Chris Fedro has raised the most by an individual with $5,040, and Dedicated To Life holds that distinction in the team category with $11,454.87.