Relay Rally, ‘Hope’ Photo Unveiling Set For November 12

On October 11, organizers and supporters of the 2011 Relay For Life held their first planning meeting for next June’s event. The meeting included introductions of committee and event leadership, a screening of a slideshow that was produced by 2011 Relay co-chair and breast cancer survivor Michelle Babyak, and a farewell party of sorts for Newtown’s departing American Cancer Society liaison, Pat Deuschle.

While 2010 Relay chair Addie Sandler will carry on in that capacity for a second year, she is being joined by Ms Babyak as the co-chair. Ms Babyak has committed to taking on the chairperson’s duties in 2012.

To begin initiating excitement toward the 2011 event, a Relay Rally is planned for Friday, November 12, from 7 to 9 pm, at C.H. Booth Library to promote the event and encourage Newtowners to participate and volunteer. In addition, copies of a unique photo, taken by Newtown Bee Associate Editor, Sandy Hook firefighter, and cancer survivor Shannon Hicks at the 2010 event, will be offered for sale as a fundraiser.

The photo, which ran on the front page of the June 11 edition of The Newtown Bee, shows cancer survivors and their caregivers spelling out the word HOPE while assembled on a softball field at Fairfield Hills following the Survivors Lap of Relay 2010. Miss Hicks shot the photo from the top of Hook & Ladder’s fully extended aerial ladder.

A limited edition of the matted photo, signed by Miss Hicks, will be offered in exchange for a $50 donation to the American Cancer Society. Only 100 copies of the photo are available.

A cord of wood has also been donated as a door prize, and anyone attending the November 12 rally is eligible to win.

Relay organizers and supporters invite everyone in the community to attend the Relay Rally at the Booth Library. To learn more about Relay For Life in Newtown go to www.relayforlife.org/newtownct.