Lighting Ceremony Celebrates Pacifica Community

There’s no better time than now to address the importance of community and togetherness. That’s why in response to the tragedy in Newtown, CT, Sunset Ridge Elementary will hold its first annual "Light the Night" celebration Thursday, Dec. 20, at 7 p.m.

Ellie Cundiff, Sunset Ridge Principal, and parent John Edwards, a PTA member at Sunset Ridge and a PTO member at Ocean Shore, came up with the idea for a lighting ceremony as a positive, community-building event after a discussion about what to do in response to Newtown.

“Rather than hold a vigil for the Newtown tragedy, we are creating an event to celebrate community togetherness and put some positive energy into the world to counter the negative,” said Edwards

As people arrive, they can enjoy some hot chocolate and perhaps some snow. At 7:30 p.m., Cundiff will say a few words.

“We're still awaiting word, but a school board official may also speak,” said Edwards.

After that, a member of the student council will "throw the switch" to light up all the decorations strung throughout the courtyard.

“We may also sing the Sunset Ridge School song at that point,” said Edwards.

Donations for Sandy Hook Elementary will also be collected.

Local businesses are helping the effort. Ace Hardware Linda Mar and Pacific Manor Hardware have donated lights. Home Depot Pro and Home Depot II in Colma have donated extension cords and surge protectors. Starbucks is donating coffee, and “I'm waiting on word from another business about donating the hot chocolate,” said Edwards.

“There are no plans to address hot button issues, but address only the importance of community and togetherness," said Edwards, "and to send everyone off to Winter Break in style.”

Keep up with the latest local news — follow Patch!

Sign up for Pacifica Patch’s daily newsletter
"Like” us on Facebook
"Follow” us on Twitter

 
Want to share your opinions with the communities of the Coastside? Start your own blog here.