On one of the last sparkling days of the year, Newtown Municipal employees and members of the community dressed their best in all shades of pink for the annual Pink Wave on Friday, October 18.

The Pink Wave is an opportunity to spread awareness about breast cancer and remember a beloved coworker: Tammy Hazen. Municipal employees and members of the public gathered in the beautiful garden created in Hazen’s memory and shared a few words regarding the far-reaching impact breast cancer can have on a family.

John Voket, Town of Newtown economic & community development director, started the afternoon by saying, “Let’s all turn our attention toward Tammy, and say, ‘Hey Tammy! Thanks for this day!’”

The crowd followed suit by waving to the sky and saying “Hey Tammy,” “Hi,” and some even offered their own gratitude for the sunshine and warmth.

First Selectman Jeff Capeci then shared a few remarks, “Our journey is not about walking, it’s about remembering, honoring, and supporting those who are affected by this disease and most importantly standing in hope. Today we are fortunate to gather in this beautiful Tammy’s Garden, a place that represents love, community, and resilience.”

Capeci continued, “We are reminded of the strength and beauty that persists, even in the face of challenges … Let Tammy’s legacy inspire us today as we walk in solidarity, not just for those we’ve lost, but for those who continue to fight. Together we are strong, and together we can make a difference.”

Voket then thanked all the volunteers who helped make the day special, including those who stamped the pink ribbon along the path, those who “wrestled with pink pumpkins,” and Uwa Osagie, the community partnerships manager for Ann’s Place.

“Ann’s Place … is one of the top organizations Newtown cancer survivors and loved ones turn for support and education. They serve thousands of people at no charge and we, as a community of municipal staff, are proud to support them,” Voket said.

Osagie explained Ann’s Place offers many different forms of community support for cancer survivors and those currently receiving treatment. Ann’s Place offers one-on-one counseling, 25 plus group therapies, art therapy, Zumba classes, and even Spanish speaking support groups and counselors. All of these services are offered at no cost, and that’s only possible through generous donations, like the one made during the Pink Wave.

Ann’s Place has expanded their efforts into Waterbury.

Osagie told the crowd, “We’re growing and happy to spread awareness because, I always like to say, you only know what you’re exposed to.”

After Osagie’s brief speech, Voket led the pinked-out crowd to start the walk, “Let’s make this pink wave happen!”

The group walked around Fairfield Hills, following the pink ribbons spray-painted onto the grass. There were banners toting pink ribbons throughout the campus as well. The group stopped outside NYA Sports & Fitness Center to take a few photos and then continued on, ending the walk back at Tammy’s Garden.

For those who want to learn more about the services available at Ann’s Place visit annsplace.org.

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Reporter Sam Cross can be reached at sam@thebee.com.