The Ballroom
Lance Armstrong Foundation Supporter but Not Funder
RECEIVED Wed., April 20, 2005
Dear Editor,
Let's set the record straight. I have generally disregarded the disparaging remarks recently published by The Austin Chronicle about the Lance Armstrong Foundation's very public support of Onward Austin and the proposed smoking ban. I am proud of the LAF's support of movements and organizations that help reduce the cancer rates in our society.
However, Darcie Stevens' article “Smoke Signals” [Music, April 15] and Daniel Mottola's article “Where There's Smoke . . .,” [News, April 15] that state “Onward Austin . . . financially backed by the American Cancer Society and the Lance Armstrong Foundation” is not correct. As readers of the Austin American-Statesman know, Onward Austin has released its financial statement, and their sole source of financial backing has been the American Cancer Society.
As a staff member at the LAF, I know the money that LAF constituents donate directly impacts our mission of providing practical information and tools that people need to battle cancer and live strong. LAF staff and volunteers are focused on helping people with cancer and their families.
I hope the community of Austin will join the movement of communities across America and say to smokers, “Please step outside to have your cigarette.”
Let's set the record straight. I have generally disregarded the disparaging remarks recently published by The Austin Chronicle about the Lance Armstrong Foundation's very public support of Onward Austin and the proposed smoking ban. I am proud of the LAF's support of movements and organizations that help reduce the cancer rates in our society.
However, Darcie Stevens' article “Smoke Signals” [Music, April 15] and Daniel Mottola's article “Where There's Smoke . . .,” [News, April 15] that state “Onward Austin . . . financially backed by the American Cancer Society and the Lance Armstrong Foundation” is not correct. As readers of the Austin American-Statesman know, Onward Austin has released its financial statement, and their sole source of financial backing has been the American Cancer Society.
As a staff member at the LAF, I know the money that LAF constituents donate directly impacts our mission of providing practical information and tools that people need to battle cancer and live strong. LAF staff and volunteers are focused on helping people with cancer and their families.
I hope the community of Austin will join the movement of communities across America and say to smokers, “Please step outside to have your cigarette.”
Willy Snell
LAF staff member
LAF staff member
