Hopewell Valley remembers 9-11 tonight

The observance will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the William P. Howe Commons office complex on South Main Street in Pennington Borough

The program has been organized by the Hands Across Hopewell Valley Committee, under the auspices of the Hopewell Valley Recreation Department.

The observance will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the William P. Howe Commons office complex on South Main Street in Pennington Borough.

Organizers suggest that residents begin to gather at the site at 7 p.m. Participants should plan to bring their own candles in case those being distributed to adults who arrive early run out. American flags will be distributed to small children.

The program will include inspirational words and music. Scouts — including Girl Scout Daisy Troop 1867, Cub Scout Packs 71 and 1776, and Boy Scout Troop 44 — will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. The Hopewell Valley Chorus' "Joyful Notes" will perform the "Star-Spangled Banner," "God Bless America," and "America the Beautiful."

A prayer for the Hopewell Valley community will be offered by the Rev. Charles Stevens of the Unitarian-Universalist Church of Washington Crossing, on behalf of the interfaith community.

Local emergency service volunteers are expected to participate, including the Hopewell Township Police Department Honor Guard. Veterans, including those from Hopewell Valley American Legion Post 339, also plan to attend.

The Pennington Police Department will close South Main Street between Delaware Avenue and Laning Avenue beginning at 7 p.m. The event is planned for rain or shine, unless severe weather prevails.

At 8:46 a.m. — before many reach their offices and just after local schools begin their day — municipal offices, houses of worship, and schools will observe a moment of silence. Individuals throughout Hopewell Valley are encouraged to observe this moment of silence in memory of those who perished or have suffered since 9-11.

Following the moment of silence, bells will toll throughout Hopewell Valley. Participating organizations are expected to include the Pennington Presbyterian Church, Pennington Methodist Church, The Pennington School, St. George's Church, St. James Church, and St. Alphonsus Church. Other participating houses of worship contributing to the day's events include the Assembly of God, St. Matthew's Church, Unitarian-Universalist Church, Hopewell Presbyterian Church, and members of the Baha'i Community.

For more information, contact the Hopewell Valley Recreation Department at 737-3753.

©Copyright 2003, Hopewell Valley News (NJ, USA)

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