It’s an annual tradition that people flock to each year. The Lights of Love ceremony was held last weekend at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, and the atrium was overflowing with guests. They came to hear the Colonial Singers from West Potomac High School perform. They came to hear the elementary school students read their essays. And they came to hear Cleve Francis, M.D., accompanied by Darci Vanderhoff, sing a selection of holiday songs. The format is very familiar but always remains fresh with new students being selected every year for their essays.
Students Brandon Perez, Groveton Elementary; Katherine Rausch, Fort Hunt Elementary; and Stacy Burton, Hayfield Elementary read their essays.
William J. (Bill) Hanusek, also known as “Mr. Bill,” crossing guard at Fort Hunt Elementary School, was the subject of Rausch’s essay, while Burton spoke about Russian orphans.
After the ceremonies in the atrium, guests gathered in the cafeteria for the lighting of the Christmas trees and the singing of “Light up the Night.” Refreshments and visits with Santa followed.