Thank you to all the participants of last night's

Night of Hope-A Community Remembers 9/11.

It was truly a group effort of many caring individuals. Thank you to Michelle Lukkasson for her MC work. Thanks to the men and women of VFW Post 769 for the great showing of strength of our warriors and Honor Guard. Thank you to Pastor Bruce Swart and Pastor Mike Hobby for their opening and closing prayers; Linda Hobby and her guitar player, Danny, shared some beautifully performed songs. Thank  you to those who shared their wisdom: Speeches were made by VFW State Commander Dennis Dole, newly elected Mayor Jose Lizarraga, QPD Chief Jeff Gilbert. QFD Chief Kevin Hess showed a beautiful tribute video. Joanne Winer announced the new focus in Celia's Rainbow Gardens this year will be the memorial area. Individuals shared their stories of that day and then candles were lit. Thank you to Council Members, Jerry Lukkasson and Joe Winslow for helping with the lighting of the candles. Thank you Monica Timberlake for your music choices.

A huge thank you to Joanne Winer who baked hundreds of cookies and provided drinks. A heartfelt thanks to Anita Carlson of Operation Hero Comfort, who provided all the flags to be handed out. The volunteers of Operation Hero Comfort also provided cards for messages to our troops. These cards will be sent in their next "Care Package" to our troops serving in harms way. You are all awesome!

Quartzsite is a beautiful community of loving, caring people. So many shared their gratitude for living in Quartzsite. The night proved to be a night of healing, as the community came together to honor those who lost their lives in the tragedy of September 11th. We will never forget!


Thank you to all the folks who helped with the decorating and the cleanup. This event was sponsored by the Arizona Centennial of Quartzsite Committee.  Members Audrey Burger, Monica Timberlake, Michelle Lukkasson, Mary Huntley, and myself thank the community for such a wonderful turnout!