Peace power

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth and HB Police Chief William Tokajer lead a Sept. 20 procession of Anna Maria Elementary students carrying flags from different countries to mark the start of Peace Day celebrations at the school. Islander Photos: Robyn Murrell

First-grade teacher Maggie VanWormer smiles Sept. 20 after her class takes part in a Peace Day tradition of running under an Olympic flag to end the celebration. Each grade level also performed songs.

Cindi Harrison, a counselor at for the original Peace Day at Anna Maria Elementary, leads students Sept. 20 in a peace experiment, prompting them to close their eyes and visualize something they love. AME principal Katie Fradley, former principal Mike Masiello and Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island leaders also participated.