‘Light Up A Life’

November 29, 2000
Santa Paula News

The 7th Annual “Light Up A Life” tree lighting ceremony benefiting Santa Clara Valley Hospice drew those remembering departed loved ones and honoring the living on Saturday

By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe 7th Annual “Light Up A Life” tree lighting ceremony benefiting Santa Clara Valley Hospice drew those remembering departed loved ones and honoring the living on Saturday. The ceremony was held beneath the huge tree next to United Water Conservation District on 8th and Main streets where Hospice supporters enjoyed hot apple cider and a variety of star cookies, the latter reflecting the event's theme.“You'll see our tree this year will shine a little brighter,” due to the upgraded lights made possible by Hospice and the Santa Paula Optimist Club, said Cathy Barringer, president of the Hospice board of directors.The Santa Paula Community Choir, under the direction of Leticia Mattson Gretchen Frey, accompanied by Gale Graham, offered a concert of holiday favorites against backdrop of star balloons.Opening prayers were offered by the Rev. Merle Lehman and Pastor Jose Vindal, who both noted that memory of a departed loved one is a blessing forever and such memories ensure eternal life.After the countdown, the tree was lit, a sight that can be seen for blocks around the Main Street area.
Volunteers read the scores of names of those who had a star donated in their memory or in their honor.Keeping with the “Light Up A Life” tradition, Patty Strickland sang “Silent Night” to close the event.Barringer noted that a special community Christmas Party will be held on December 13th at 5 p.m. at the Whistle Stop Cafe on the corner of 10th and Main streets, where a special Hospice tree will be hung with stars containing the names of those that “Light Up A Life” donations were dedicated to.For a minimum $10 donation each, departed loved ones can be remembered and living friends and relatives honored during the holiday season.Stars are still available at the Hospice office, 133 N. Mill Street. For more information, call Hospice at 525-1333.Santa Clara Valley Hospice serves the river valley with always free services that include the emotional, physical and spiritual support of the terminally ill and their families. Hospice also sponsors an array of work shops, classes and support groups, has an extensive hospital equipment no charge loan program, and a free library containing hundreds of books, cassette tapes and films, among other services.



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