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| By Danielle Paine Reminder Assistant Editor LONGMEADOW An upcoming benefit in support of World AIDS Day aims to accomplish the seemingly impossible by making holiday shopping a relaxing experience. On Dec. 2, at this holiday bazaar and wellness spa party, shoppers can participate in chair massages, yoga sessions, and visit a skin care spa station all while vendors, area businesses and restaurants sell jewelry, art, gift certificates and clothing. On-site raffles and silent auctions will also feature holiday gifts. A portion of the proceeds will benefit HIV outreach and prevention in the rural Western Massachusetts through the New England Aids Education and Training Center's Rural Outreach Program. "Many of the young people in rural areas have not come into contact with patients with HIV and the knowledge base is not as great as we would like," explained Dr. Deborah Hoadley, director of the Heron Pond Health and Wellness Center. The bazaar will fund educational and awareness programs in rural Western Massachusetts, including the Franklin and Berkshire counties. "We want to not only reach the youth but their parents and older adults, many who are developing social lives later in life and may not know about AIDS prevention," Hoadley said. The fair will take place on Dec. 2, 1-4 p.m. at the Heron Pond Health and Wellness Center, 175 Dwight Rd., Suite 203A, Longmeadow. Although entrance to the event is free, people are being asked to register in advance by calling 567-0600 or by e-mailing debhoadley@aol.com. |