Luminaria Contest Lights Up Reed

By Nancy K. Crevier

The cafetorium at Reed Intermediate School is always a hive of activity, but Friday, June 8, it was particularly buzzing with excitement as students vied for the opportunity to vote for their favorite luminaria.

The Relay For Life Luminaria Art Contest was the brainchild of Newtown residents Laura Warren and Kathy Nostrand, who co-chaired the school event. Sixth grade student were invited to take home and decorate a luminaria, provided at no cost by Curtis Packaging of Newtown.

“I have always loved the Cow Parade idea,” said Ms Warren, “so Kathy and I thought luminaria done in that style would be a fun way to raise money for Relay For Life.”

Forty-two sixth graders, including Morgan Winters, sister of Relay For Life Honorary Chairperson Abbi Winters, submitted an initial plan to Reed art teachers, decorated the luminaria, and returned the entries for voting. The nearly 900 students, staff, and teachers were invited to cast a vote for their favorite luminaria on Friday during lunch hour, at a cost of $1 per vote.

“They are just beautiful,” commented Ms Nostrand, as she surveyed the colorful assortment of luminaria on display. “It is amazing what the kids came up with. Some are dedicated to Abbi, who will be a student at Reed next year, and some to relatives who have died of cancer,” she pointed out.

Hearts, dancers, rainbows, colorful whirls, and shooting stars covered the surfaces of the bags, turning them into bright emblems of hope. “Cancer affects everyone. Together we will win.” “Care to Find a Cure.” “You Can Make A Difference.” The phrases of assurance scribed upon the luminaria spoke volumes more than the few words of which they consisted.

“You shot for the moon and landed among the stars,” read one luminaria dedicated to Greg Chion, a young man from Newtown who succumbed to leukemia his senior year of high school, in 2000.

When the votes were tallied, top place went to Morgan Winters for her entry, dedicated to her sister. Second place was awarded to Gracie Whitaker, while third place honors went to Richard Griffin. A total of $163 was raised by the event.

Ms Nostrand and Ms Warren were so pleased with the participation this year that they hope to continue it as an annual event each spring.

All of the decorated luminaria were displayed Saturday evening, June 9, in a special luminaria tent at the Relay For Life event. Abbi Winters carried her sister’s winning luminaria around the track during the ceremonial lap.