Blue Ridge citizens, law enforcement, EMS members and other government officials gathered around the gazebo in downtown Blue Ridge in honor and memory of those lost in the tragedy of Sandy Hook Elementary School.Responding to the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School last week, two annoymous citizens organized a candle light prayer vigil to honor those grieving in Newtown, CT. The memorial took place on Monday, December 17, 2012 and included singing by Stephen Ralston, a senior at Fannin County High School and a prayer read by Reverand Tom Jordan, at which time, he asked for comfort for the families affected by this horrific event. Ralston used his beautiful voice to uplift everyone in song by singing “This Little Light of Mine.” Afterward, twenty-six white balloons were released, one balloon for each victim.

Stephen Ralston used his wonderful talent to make the memorial complete with the beautiful songs he sang.

“It is all bigger than Newtown, bigger than us…This was done as a symbol that an earthly life can be extinguished, but that does not mean that others have not been ignited,”

one of the organizers said.
With nearly fifty people in attendance, the memorial was a success and, hopefully, the upcoming event in McCaysville will be as well. FYN will be there in support of the wonderful acts of kindness offered by our local community.