A varied program of music, poetry and prose oriented around healing, reconciliation, forgiveness and love was enjoyed by more than 60 Carbondale community members, including many representatives of the campaigns for the “yes” and “no” sides of the Village at Crystal River vote.

Hearts Healing, A Carbondale Community Gathering was coordinated by Oni Butterfly. The event took place on Feb. 2 at The Gathering Center at The Orchard in Carbondale. Many thanks go to Pastor Doug Self of The Orchard, who offered his magnificent facility for this tribute to the undying goodwill of the townspeople of Carbondale.

Many organizations were instrumental in making this a heart-warming gathering. Many thanks to The Gathering Center at The Orchard, A Spiritual Center, Carbondale Community United Methodist Church, Crystal River Baptist Church, Davi Nikent, HighLife Unlimited, St. Mary of the Crown and Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists.

Beautiful musicianship and magnificent musical selections for the program were provided by Jerry Alcorta Band of The Orchard Life and Jimmy Byrne from the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists. The whole room was on its feet dancing and belting out “Get Together.”

A poem, “I Am a Town,” written by Lisa Dancing-Light, was read by different attendees in the audience. The spirit that makes Carbondale unique was palpable in the silence during a group meditation led by Gwen Garcelon, and throughout the moving gathering.

Guests feasted on an incredible spread. One comment heard was, “These aren’t apps, this is dinner.”

Thanks to the following restaurants for the most gracious and generous donations of incredible food: Big Mama’s Catering, City Market, Dos Gringos Burritos, Eco-Goddess Edibles, El Horizonte, El Pollo Rico, Gandhi, Hestia/The Goat, Mi Casita, Red Rock Diner, Russets, The Pour House, The Village Smithy, Uncle’s Pizza and White House Pizza.

Special thanks for help with the set up to Bravo Fine Catering and for help with the clean up to Dancing Pickle Catering and gang, and Derek Panter.

And thanks to Caroline Metzler at Coyote Creative Graphic Design for her time and talents in creating the poster, restaurant list and all things “graphic.”

Debbie Patrick

Carbondale