CAZENOVIA — On Saturday, Sept. 11, the Cazenovia community will observe the 20th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks with a candlelight vigil in Memorial Park on Albany Street at 7 p.m.
The ceremony will serve to remember the victims of attacks and honor the heroism of the first responders and service members who answered the call of duty.
The candlelight vigil is coordinated annually by members of Project CAFE, a non-profit teen organization that, as part of its mission, organizes Cazenovia community service projects and events, in the hope of improving and connecting the entire community.
This year’s event will feature representatives of local emergency response and veterans groups, music, silent reflection, and more.
According to Mayor Kurt Wheeler, Project CAFE leaders will welcome the community, lead the pledge of allegiance, and light the candles. The Cazenovia Fire Department will place a wreath on the village’s monument for fallen firefighters, and Eric Byers of the Cazenovia Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps (CAVAC) will share the story of a first responder who gave their life for others on 9/11.
The Cazenovia American Legion Post 88 will provide the Color Guard, the Cazenovia Police Department will offer traffic control and attend the ceremony, and Maggie Dougherty will lead the Cazenovia High School Chamber Choir.
All are welcome to attend.
According to Wheeler, masks are not required outdoors, but attendees are welcome to wear them.
“Project CAFE is especially proud to be able to host the observance this year on the 20th anniversary of 9/11,” said Wheeler. “It would have already been a milestone given that two decades have passed, but it will be on people’s minds more than ever with the recent events in Afghanistan. It will be valuable to have the chance to come together as a community to remember those we lost on 9/11 and the sacrifices that our military and first responders have continued to make since then.”
To learn more about Project CAFE, visit projectcafe.org.
