The annual Memorial Day Service in Cherry Grove took place at the Community House on May 29. After a greeting from Roland Michely, Gene Rohrer played Aaron Copland’s peaceful “Our Town Suite,” pertinent in so many ways, written for the film version of Thornton Wilder’s play.
Cherry Grove Community Association, Inc. (CGCAI) President Diane Romano said, “We come together to remember those who are not with us, including our pets.” She saluted people serving in the military and also spoke of the late Lynn Lewis, lawyer and CGCAI Board member. She concluded with the poem “All Is Well.”
Arts Project of Cherry Grove (APCG) President Thom “Panzi” Hansen offered his thoughts on the spirit that sets Cherry Grove apart from other places, including how we recall our departed, who are always with us. He had been planning to read the same poem that Diane had chosen, but instead ended with, “I am so proud to be a part of this community.”
The Memorial Fund’s Richard Schack noted that the same “Our Town” music had been played at a memorial for his late partner 25 years ago.
Roland mentioned the names of those who passed away since last Memorial Day including, Daniel “Sweetie” Booth, Jack Ebert, Lynn Lewis, Bill Marino, Mike McGovern, John Sorensen, George “Brandy” Susani, and Gilbert Baker. Roland displayed a rainbow flag that Gilbert had made, signed, and numbered, and will donate it to the Cherry Grove Archives.
Before we left, we observed a Minute of Silence and greeted our neighbors.