NATCHEZ — Natchez is going pink today in honor and recognition of October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the third annual Paint Natchez Pink Day sponsored by Merit Health Natchez.

“Working with the Mayor, Board of Alderman, the Natchez Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Supervisors, we are proud to announce this day will be proclaimed Paint Natchez Pink Day,” said Lance Boyd, CEO of Merit Health Natchez.

For Paint Natchez Pink Day, businesses are encouraged to decorate with pink and ask employees to wear pink on this day. Individuals can place pink ribbons on their mailboxes, and restaurants and stores are encouraged to go pink for the day with displays, lights, etc., Boyd said.

Mayor Darryl Grennell will read the official proclamation on the bluff, across from the Natchez Convention Center and Grand Hotel, on Thursday evening at 6 p.m., and the public is invited to attend.

There will be refreshments, music, an array of education and awareness displays, and photo opportunities in a giant pink chair. A release of pink luminaries will complete the event.

“We want our community to see firsthand the commitment and support of not only our hospital,” Boyd said, “but also other local businesses and individuals for this unique and fun way to create awareness. Please join us in support and honor for those in our community valiantly fighting this disease and those who have conquered their fight. It will also be a time to remember those who have lost their battle.”

Also, earlier in the day Thursday, Merit Health Natchez is sponsoring a Community Health and Safety Fair at the Natchez Convention Center from 3 to 6 p.m.

The free event is designed for participants to gain useful tips and practices to live healthier lives.

Hospital personnel will be on hand to offer blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, height and weight and BMI screenings, and health professionals will also assist participants with heart and stroke risk assessments, as well as depression screenings.

Also on display at the event will be the newest surgical robotic system technology available at Merit Health Natchez, and attendees will have a chance to view the equipment and technology up close and see demonstrations from healthcare professionals on how surgeons control the robot in the operating room.

“This event is designed to encourage individuals to be proactive in their health,” Boyd said. “Numerous health professionals, including registered nurses, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, dietitians, social workers and imaging technician, will be available to provide valuable education and material on topics such as heart health, infection control, vaping, nutrition, pregnancy and so much more. We truly look forward to showcasing fitness, health and wellness information to the community we serve.”