Community Corner

Luminaria Make for a Magical Sight in Chatham

The annual Rotary fundraiser also raised spirits on a cold, clear night.

Christmas vigil Mass was just letting out at when my family drove into Chatham Borough for our annual Christmas Eve dinner at the Dey's beautiful home on Washington Avenue.

"Why aren't they all lighted yet?" asked my 9-year-old son about the luminaria that line the street and are a highlight every year when we visit Chatham for the holidays.

My husband explained that people were just getting started. Indeed, the candles in their humble brown paper bags aren't supposed to be lit until 6 p.m.

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At the Dey's, Uncle Fred (Fred Mann, Class of '87) was lighting the luminaria, much to our children's delight.

The luminaria are sold in kits of 12 bags, 12 candles and a bag of kitty litter to weigh down the bags and keep them from tipping over or blowing away. Proceeds benefit local Parent Teacher Organizations within the , as well as Rotary fundraisers including scholarship programs, Polio Plus, the Rotary Park in Chatham and classroom supplies such as Smartboards. You can find out more about the fundraiser .

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