Website: http://www.cancer.k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Marcia Locke, 785-532-6705, marcia@k-state.edu
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Tough and ready: Pink rodeo to benefit K-state's Johnson Cancer Research Center
MANHATTAN -- The Kaw Valley Rodeo Association is looking for cowboys and cowgirls who are tough enough to wear pink.
The association will host its sixth annual Tough Enough to Wear Pink night at the Kaw Valley Rodeo on Friday, July 27, to raise awareness of breast and other cancers and to raise funds for Kansas State University's Johnson Cancer Research Center.
The Kaw Valley Rodeo, July 26-28, is in conjunction with the Riley County Fair, and will start at 8 p.m. at Wells Arena in Manhattan's CiCo Park.
"We want all rodeo fans to pack the arena with pink that Friday night," said Dr. Gene Klingler, rodeo association member and pink rodeo committee chair.
A large pink balloon launch will honor cancer survivors during the grand entry. Audience members and rodeo participants alike are encouraged to wear pink. Pink T-shirts, bandanas and more will be sold at the rodeo, with all proceeds going to the cancer research center.
"The pink rodeo is a touching and exciting event. We thank the rodeo association and sponsors, as well as everyone who helps fill the arena with pink and otherwise supports cancer research at K-State," said Rob Denell, director of the center and a university distinguished professor of biology.
Some non-rodeo events are also scheduled to support the Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign. A spaghetti buffet will be offered by chef Drew Zink and Cox Bros. from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 15, at the First Presbyterian Church Family Center, 801 Leavenworth St. A steak fry and live auction will be at 5 p.m. Sunday, July 22, at R.C. McGraw's, 2317 Tuttle Creek Blvd. Reservations are needed for both events and can be made by calling the center at 785-532-6705.
The cancer research center's mission is to further the understanding of cancers by funding cancer research and supporting higher education, training and public outreach. All of its programs are supported by private donations. More information about the center is at http://www.cancer.k-state.edu.
