By DENISE HERSCHEL
For many years on December 23, the Avon Fire Department becomes ‘Santa’s Helpers’ driving the Jolly Old Man dressed in red around the borough so that he can bring holiday surprises to the awaiting children. In 2001, the Gardens of Avon-by-the-Sea members also wanted to help Santa and the firemen during the holiday season so they decided to sell luminary candles to Avon friends “to help light their way all over town.”
According to Mary Norris, club member and publicity chairperson, this upcoming weekend the group will hold its 3rd Annual Luminary Sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 4, 10 and 17 and also at the borough’s Christmas tree lighting Dec. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. The sets of 10 luminary candles will be available for sale at the Garden Club Shed, behind the Avon Fire House.
“That initial sale was such an enormous success that this year we will be holding our third sale. The luminaries are a fund raiser and a community beautification project. Residents love the firemen bringing Santa to the boys and girls of Avon. They have been doing this for many, many years,” Norris said.
The purpose of the sale is to raise money for the many projects that the Garden Club does throughout the borough to beautify Avon. They include the luminary sale, the Christmas planters on Main Street, wreaths and decorations at the municipal building and the annual summer craft sale.
According to Norris, the cost of purchasing the luminaries is $10 for a set of 10 luminary battery operated candles
“Some people purchase multiple sets and some buy to give as gifts. It has been sold out the first two years,” she said. “As in previous years, we encourage everyone to put out their luminaries on Dec. 23 so that Santa and the firemen can easily find their way and know how much we appreciate them. Of course you can light them again on Christmas Eve.”
For more information about the 3rd Annual Luminary Sale contact Mary Norris at maryenorris@gmail.com or call 908-963-3465.
