Sept. 11 event planned locally; memorials planned nationally

The tragic events of Sept. 11 have touched every American -- regardless of age, sex, ethnicity or religion. Because of that, every religion is being invited to participate in an inter-faith devotional at First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla on the one-year anniversary date.

The Wasilla church will be a place where people can come and offer their prayers, regardless of religion.

The event came out of a long-standing friendship, and a simple conversation of what was being planned locally for the Sept.11 anniversary.

"Karl [Schleich] and Henry [Woodall, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla] were talking and asked each other if they knew of anything being planned here in the Valley," Ley Schleich said. "That day affected everyone, and we wanted to organize something that was as diverse as possible. We want to reach out to a variety of religious groups."

The service starts at 7 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla. Schleich described it as a "simple affair."

"People can come and gather and offer short prayers and writings. I'm sure we'll have a few musical selections, too," Schleich said.

"Nothing too extravagant, just a simple service," she added.

For more information, interested people can contact the First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla at 376-5053.