Luminaria Saturday Creating Glowing Tributes To Those Touched By Cancer

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature event, offering the opportunity to remember people who have lost their lives to cancer and honor those who have won their battle. “One of the most moving parts of the event is the luminaria Ceremony of Hope,” said Luminaria Chair Laura Warren.

“As the sun sets over campsites and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags, each carrying a special sentiment,” said Kathy Nostrand, luminaria co-chair. “Some celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer and have lived to tell their stories. Many remember the lives of those who have been lost to the disease. All represent someone special who has been profoundly affected by cancer and the family and friends who continue to fight back in their honor.”

To heighten the awareness of the disease, the Relay For Life of Newtown started Luminaria Saturday three years ago. Any Newtown resident may purchase a luminaria to remember a loved one lost to cancer and honor those battling cancer or who have survived.

The luminaria are displayed around the track during the Ceremony of Hope, which will be held on June 13 at Fairfield Hills.

On May 2, Relay For Life teams will be stationed at various business locations around Newtown so that the public can purchase luminarias for the event. Drop by Dunkin’ Donuts, Stop &d Shop, Sandy Hook Center, Mocha Coffeehouse, or Mason’s Farm Market to honor or remember a loved one or friend.

Information about making a luminaria donation, forming a team, or walking in The Survivors Lap is available by visiting the website at www.relayforlife.org/newtownct or contacting the Relay Committee at relayforlifeofnewtown@gmail.com.

‘Bachelorette’ Party

In other Relay news, Newtown’s Relay for Life Team Walking for a Silver Lining invites Newtowners to a unique fundraiser. Erica Rose from the ABC hit show The Bachelor will talk about her experience on the show as well as give attendees some insight regarding the most talked-about Bachelor finale ever.

For a donation of $25 attendees will receive an appetizer, dinner, dessert, and all the compelling information Ms Rose has to give; she will also answer any questions.

The event is happening at 7 pm, Thursday, May 7, at My Place Restaurant on Queen Street. Attendees can also participate in a raffle, and luminarias will be on sale as well. Seating is limited; for tickets, contact Charlene Calandro at 270-6569 or email calandro003@charter.net.

The Walking for a Silver Lining Relay team is also offering an opportunity to get healthy for the cause at The Fitness Loft, 3 Simm Lane. Classes will be Saturday, May 9. The cost of one class is $20, 2 classes for $25, and 3 for $30.

Classes include: 8:30 am, Body Pump; 9:30 am, Spinning; 10:30 am, Pilates. To sign up for the above classes please email Mandi Poseno at mandiposeno@thefitnessloft.org or call 304-1400

Mother’s Day Flowers

Also, the employees of Newtown Savings Bank are also fundraising for the bank’s two regional Relay teams. Those volunteers are conducting a Mother’s Day Flower Sale on Friday, May 8, from 11 am to 2 pm at the bank’s headquarters at 39 Main Street.

A wide selection of locally grown potted plants and hanging baskets will be available. Proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society on behalf of the bank’s two Relay teams. For more information on the NSB / Relay Mother’s Day Flower Sale, contact Dale Cuddy at 426-4440, extension 3160.

The 2009 Newtown Relay for Life will be held at Fairfield Hills overnight June 13–14.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the society has 13 regional divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States.

For more information, call 800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.