Page 8 THE VILLADOM TIMES IV • December 18, 2013 Ramsey Luminaria tradition due to continue this year A Christmas Eve tradition is scheduled to continue in the Borough of Ramsey, as dedicated residents prepare to light thou- sands of luminarias. Each luminaria consists of a single votive candle set inside a small bag weighed down with sand. In Ramsey, entire neighbor- hoods participate in the tradition of light- ing multiple luminarias and placing them along walkways and driveways. The tradition came to the United States from Mexico, and has its origins in the Pueblo peoples’ custom of lighting bon- fires, also known as luminaria, on Christ- mas Eve. The tradition came to Ramsey about 30 years ago, when the Bacon family lit lumi- narias at their home on Ronald Court in the Ramsey Golf & Country Club. Neighbors who saw the display soon followed suit, and lighting the candles soon became an annual event. Midge Kennedy took over the club- wide organization of this event, and held that position until moving to Hilton Head Island in 1996. At that time, Pat Mitschang and Pat McKeon took it over and have been organizing it every year since. It takes close to 50 “street captains” to distribute candles and bags to each of the over 500 families who live within the club grounds. At 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 24, members in every house light seven candles across the front of their homes. It’s a sight to behold. Thousands of candles light the way along every street within the club and around its lake. The tradition has spread to various other Luminarias light the way in Ramsey. (Photo courtesy of Kevin O’Rourke.) streets in Ramsey. People who visit the club often ask how it is done and where to get the supplies. The information has always been proudly given.