As you might be able to tell from the photos above, the Luminaria ceremony, which was held on June 18th due to the torrential downpour that happened on Relay Eve, was a wonderful success.  

The evening started with Common Vessel opening with beautiful music that ranged from soulful gospel to rousing country & rock tunes to get your feet moving & your spirits soaring.  They were truly phenomenal!  I can't say enough about the talent of these young men & the young lady that sang a duet with them.  If you have the opportunity to hear them, or to book them to appear for your gathering - don't miss it!

At dusk, Mayor Parr spoke a few words to open the ceremony & Survivor tree was ceremonially planted by this year's Co-Chair Kristin Haight & Survivor, Susie Austin, in the Village Park.  

The Luminaria which lined both sides of main street & a portion of Quaker road were lit in time for Taps to be played and a beautiful melody to be played on the bagpipes.  

Julie Obermiller then moved everyone to near tears with a beautiful poem that she read, which was taken from a message from the American Cancer Society about a person that was newly diagnosed with cancer.  A tremendous job was done by all.

I can only add my thanks to all of those that took part in this event.  It was a worthwhile endeavor & a fitting ending to Relay 2004 for our little town with a big heart.