Red and brown are the traditional colors of autumn as trees prepare to shed their leaves, but pink is the color of choice for many this October.

The month, designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, has spawned everything from pink ribbons to a pink cover on Sports Illustrated. 

It will also be a prominent color in the City of Greer this month. Dye was added to the Greer City Park fountain for the second consecutive year, turning the water a bright pink and creating a conversation piece for those visiting the park.

“We’re happy to be able to participate in this very worthy campaign again this year and hope those who view the fountain not only enjoy the change of color but also realize the meaning behind it,” Parks and Recreation Department Director Ann Cunningham said.  “Tossing coins into the fountain has become a favorite activity for many, so we’ll collect those coins at the end of October and donate them to the Susan G. Komen Foundation to continue cancer research.”

Members of the City of Greer Fire Department have also joined the cause and will again don pink t-shirts during the month.

“We had a great response to the pink t-shirts last year. First responders know how fragile life can be and this is a small way to remember those who have battled cancer, support those who currently have it or have beaten the disease, and honor those who are searching for a cure,” Greer Fire Chief Chris Harvey said.

The department is also making the pink t-shirts available for sale this year, allowing others to lend their support. The shirts, offered at $15 each, are identical to the ones worn by the members of the department. E-mail kpearson@cityofgreer.org or call 416-6601 for more information.

Now in its 27^th year, the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month organization is a partnership of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and provide greater access to screening services.

Information for breast cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and the general public is available at www.NBCAM.org.