When I downloaded my photos from Tuesday night’s “Strollstice,” I examined them very carefully. I half expected to see the late Robert Loest in some of them. Maybe standing on the skirts of the crowd or something like that.
I didn’t. But, let me assure you, his spirit definitely was present that rainy, cold evening. That’s why many of us were there. Robert and his friend Charles Finney spearheaded the first Strollstice — just a downtown candlelight walk on the winter solstice, really — last year. (Click here to read about it.) Then Robert suddenly passed away shortly thereafter, leaving his friends and downtown acquaintances stunned and saddened.
There was no doubt in most of our minds that we would be there again this year, gathering at the big bell in Market Square with Robert large in our thoughts. The newspaper said there were 45 people. When I counted, the group was a little larger. And I know one more was present; we just couldn’t see him.
The procession ended back up on Market Square. It lasted less than an hour. Then everyone scattered to either watch the Tour de Lights decorated bicycle parade or grab something to eat or drink. I met some folks and went to the Tennessee Theatre to hear the Knoxville Jazz Orchestra‘s Christmas concert, which was fantastic.
I think Robert would have been proud of all the things going on downtown and all the people there — even in the cold and the rain. But I think he would have liked Strollstice best of all.
To read the News Sentinel’s report on Strollstice, click here. To see some photos of it on Metro Pulse’s Facebook page, click here.
I LOVE hearing – and seeing about all the events taking place downtown. Even when I can’t get to them, it’s great to know about these events and sense the energy!!
The Blue Streak is the next best thing to being there. And even when I’m there, Cynthia always manages to find something I missed. Look forward to Strollstice 2011.
Thanks, Glo and Gay! You gals add great energy to Knoxville by supporting so many things here. Love the camaraderie in our great town.
THAT PIC OF Judy and Jack is just THE BEST. (Sorry for shouting.) Get what you mean about Robert being there. It shows in all you have written here and in the photographs. Somehow, I imagine there were bicycle skid marks along the paths taken. Too dark to see, but surely they are there. Viva walking and literacy and friendships.
About the Author
What You’re Saying
What’s Hot
My Favorite Blogs
Archives