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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Saturday, May 29, 2010

Light a lantern for loved ones, casualties of war


Advertiser Staff

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More than 2,000 lanterns will shine along the shore at Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park during the 12th annual Lantern Floating Hawai'i ceremony slated for Monday evening.

The Memorial Day ceremony honors those who gave their lives in conflict, allows for reflection on the memories of loved ones and dedicates prayers for a peaceful and harmonious future, according to its sponsor, Na Lei Aloha Foundation.

Starting at 1 p.m. Monday, lantern pickup and remembrance requests will be available at the lantern request tent at the beach park. The ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m. with special performances by Shinnyo-en Shomyo Choir, Shinnyo Taiko, Maui-based country music singer Melinda Carol and the Chorus of Children; and Halau Hula Olana. At 7 p.m., Her Holiness Shinso Ito, head of Shinnyo-en, will deliver a speech followed by the lighting of the "Torch of Harmony."

The event is free and open to the public. Free parking is available at the Hawai'i Convention Center beginning at 9 a.m. with free round-trip shuttle service beginning at 4 p.m. www.lanternfloatinghawaii.com