Date: Fri 15-Mar-1996

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

Key-Club-cancer-daffodil

Full Text:

Key Club Launches Daffodil Days Drive For ACS

B Y S TEVE B IGHAM

Members of the Newtown High School Key Club gathered after school with adviser

Richard Pesce Tuesday afternoon for a mini pep rally in preparation for the

American Cancer Society's annual Daffodil Days.

The NHS club has been lending a hand to the American Cancer Society and its

fundraiser for nearly 10 years. Last year, its members sold more than $1,000

worth of daffodils, earning recognition from the national organization for

their hard work. In fact, in 1995 the Key Club led all high schools in

Fairfield County in sales.

Mr Pesce, who is a history teacher at the high school, said a lot of people

ask him what makes NHS so special when it comes to its Key Club and its

standout fundraising abilities.

"I tell them it's always been the effort of the kids," he explained.

Beth Ann Fetzer, executive director of the Western Connecticut Unit of the

American Cancer Society, said Newtown sold 225 daffodil bunches a year ago.

"They just did a fantastic job. They were all very enthusiastic," said Mrs

Fetzer, a Newtown resident. "Rich Pesce does a great job."

The Key Club, which provides various services to both the school and the

community, will be going door-to-door to sell daffodils until early next week

when Mr Pesce puts in the flower order.

According to fundraising director Maura Keenan of the Western Connecticut

Unit, the daffodil is the first flower of spring and is thus considered the

flower of hope.

Ms. Keenan said the statewide goal is to raise $618,000.

NHS Key Club President Kristine Petretti said a bunch of 10 daffodils costs $5

with all proceeds going directly to the American Cancer Society.

The daffodils will arrive in late March and will be sold at the Grand Union

and Super Stop & Shop Friday, March 29.

In sending the Key Club members out across the town, Mr Pesce made one final

request, "Please, sell, sell, sell, sell."

The Key Club is a branch of the Kiwanis Club.