The Harlem Civic Association has two events planned for October 29, and they invite the community to join them at the Harlem Little Rockies Senior Center to celebrate. According to event organizers, both the Luminaria Ceremony and the Pumpkin Carving Contest will feature food and camaraderie.

From 7:00-9:00 P.M. on Tuesday, people are invited to gather at the Senior Center, located on South Main Street, to decorate luminaria bags, enjoy refreshments, and join in a celebration of remembrance and hope. Luminarias are bags with names written on them of those who have fought or are currently fighting the battle against cancer or mental health. Whether these individuals have won their battle, are engaged in the fight, or have lost their lives, luminarias are symbols of hope. The light inside each luminaria not only represents a life but shines with the hope for a cancer-free and depression-free world. The ceremony intends to create awareness as well as to honor survivors.

Anyone with questions can call Kayla Hudon at 353-4620 or Helen Schroeder at 353-7428 for more information.

The cost per luminaria bag will be donated to the Gift of Life Housing. Bags can be purchased from a Harlem Civic Association (HCA) member or online at http://www.eventbrite.com.

Prior to the Luminaria Ceremony, the HCA will hold a Pumpkin Carving and Decorating Contest. Beginning at 6:00 P.M., popcorn, cookies, and apple cider will be served. People are encouraged to bring a carved and decorated pumpkin to Harlem Little Rockies Senior Center for contest entry. Entries will be accepted from 6:00-6:15, and judging by People's Choice will follow from 6:15-6:45. Winners will be announced at 7:00.

Prizes will be awarded to winners in the following five categories: Ages 3-5, 6-9, 10-12, 13-17, and 18 + years. Entries for carving and decorating must be done by the contestant of that age group. For example, if a three-year-old is entering a pumpkin, then that three-year-old must have done the carving or decorating.

Individuals seeking additional information can contact Helen Schroeder by calling 353-7428, Becky Schroeder at City Hall, or Kayla Hudon at 353-4620. All three ladies hope to see the community come out for these events sponsored by the Harlem Civic Association.