Commissioner Tucci Kicks Off 4th Anual Relay for Life Event
posted: Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at 1:03 PM
Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci is proud to announce that the Department of Parks & Recreation will host Relay for Life for a fourth time in Spring 2010. Last year’s event raised over $93,000.00 and we have set the bar higher with a goal of $100,000.00.This significant event is an overnight, team event, whereby teams are formed in honor or in memory of someone who has battled cancer, and they raise funds in advance of the event. The money we raise stays within the area to provide Education and Patient Services to those diagnosed with cancer and their families, as well as to fund life saving research going on at our area hospitals and universities. It’s called a Relay because team members take turns walking all night, the idea being that one person from every team is walking on the track for the entire duration of the event.
The Kick Off Ceremony was held at the Recreation Department on January 26, 2010. “We were touched to see so many members of the community join us to be part of this meaningful event” stated Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci. The event was a tremendous success due to the commitment of residents, friends, family and many others. Nutley High School was also well represented with a large number of Key Club and National Honor Society Students present to help kick off Relay 2010’.
Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci kicked off the ceremony with a few words and goals for Relay 2010. The Chairman of this event, John Falduti and Co-Chairwomen Melissa Rosamilia helped attendants visualize how the “Relay” experience will change their outlook on the disease and help spread hope to those fighting for a cure! The theme for this year’s event is “Relay Beach Party”. Themes are a fun way to build excitement and competitive fun for all during the event. We are encouraging participants to decorate their tents for the event around this theme. Prizes will be given for the best decorated.
Cupcakes with candles were placed at each table and lit to symbolize cancer survivors reaching their next birthday. This part of the program helped participants understand the meaning behind the Luminaria Ceremony. As the sun sets over DeMuro Track and darkness falls, the night is brightened by the glow of illuminated bags called Luminaria, each of which has a special meaning. Some celebrate those who have battled cancer and have lived to tell their stories. Many remember the lives of those who have been lost to this terrible 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. Light a candle in honor of or in memory of a friend or loved one who has had cancer. Your $10.00 contribution will help save lives, give hope, and empower people through the American Cancer Society and its lifesaving mission. Luminaria’s are available for purchase online or in you team packet.
“I would like to extend a special thanks to Nutley Park Shop Rite and Ralph’s Pizzeria, Rocky’s Pizzeria and Jim Dandy’s for their generous sponsorship and donations for this event” stated Commissioner Tucci.
“Relay For Life”, the American Cancer Society’s signature event, is an overnight celebration of hope, progress and answers. Relay For Life is a unique event that raises community awareness of prevention and detection of cancer and of services for those currently battling the disease, while raising much-needed funds in the fight for the cure. Preparing for the event requires the work of many different sub-committees. These include ones for membership, luminaria sales, entertainment, logistics, advocacy, cancer control and online fundraising just to name a few.
Don’t wait to be part of an event that will touch the lives of so many individuals now and for years to come! Go to our web site www.relayforlife.org/NutleyNJ and create a team, join one of the many committees, or make a donation.
The Opening Ceremonies are dedicated to cancer survivors, who are our honored guests for the evening. They proudly walk the first lap, demonstrating for all that there is hope in the fight. As the sun goes down, Relay For Life becomes quite emotional as we honor survivors and remember loved ones with a beautiful candle lighting ceremony. The track becomes quiet as participants take time to mourn loved ones and rejoice at those who survived. Teams participate in planned entertainment, enjoy live music and a DJ, and enjoy camaraderie with teams participating from every part of our community, including friends, co-workers, local businesses, and community groups. “Relay for Life” will take place at DeMuro Park from May 21, 2010 into the morning of May 22, 2010.
A team captain meeting has been scheduled for March 1, 2010 at the Nutley Recreation Department located at 44 Park Ave. All are welcome to attend. For further information or to join the committee, please contact Crissy at the Recreation office at 973-284-4966, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or John Falduti at nutleyrelay@gmail.com.
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