"Prayer - America's Hope"

Sponsored by the Wellsville Area Ministerial Association the third annual ville's National Day of Prayer was held at the 4th St. Square. Heading up this year's Day of Prayer was Rev. Troy Warner. It was the third time for the ville but this has been a national event for 58 years according to Warner.

The event got started with the Presenting of the Colors by the Korean War Vets Chapter 126 from East Liverpool. Mayor Joe Surace then lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the WHS Choir and the Ebony & Ivory Show Choir sang the National Anthem. The choirs were under the direction of Jennifer Gooch.

Representing Congressman Charlie Wilson, Linda Persutti offered a prayer for our national leaders. CC Commissioner Jim Hoppel prayed for our state officials followed by Her Honor, Judge Carol Robb praying for all our county officials. Rev. Bob Philllips offered prayer for all our village officials. Rev. Troy Warner led prayers for the Armed Forces with special mention of son Justine Warner (WHS Class of '07) who is currently serving in Iraq with the 3rd Cavalry. WPD Officer Glenn LaClair led us in prayer for our police and fireman. LaClair is Chaplain for the FOP. WHS student Ryan Crabtree prayed for all students and WHS alumni Rev. Dirk Hall prayed for all the village needs & economy. Rev. Darlene Zanders offered prayers for all the area churches and congregations. Closing out the prayers was Rev. Bruce Ballantine praying for all our citizens.

After the litany of prayers and another number by the choirs, the Korean Vets retired the colors. Closing this year Day of Prayer was the symbolic launching of red, white & blue balloons carrying the prayers straight to Heaven.

This was the first time I had a chance to attend one of these and I must say I was impressed. It was well organized and I was touched with the intent. Also the gathering of all the dignitaries coming together with us citizens leading us in prayer was something to witness.

That rascal Jo Bob must have been reading my mind. Pictured above is young Gloria Williams sitting on her grand daddy's shoulders. As soon as I got the picture I knew I was going to use it. Jo Bob beat me to it in this morning's papers. Howard told me this two & one half year old cutie was there to see her Aunt Patricia sing in the choir. Officer Williams is a member of the WPD.

As they say in my church "May the Lord be with you"...

ole nib