We celebrate or shed light on many things in the month of October – domestic violence and breast cancer awareness but it’s also Crime Prevention Month.

In normal fashion, the Kingdom Network Empowering Communities Inc. (KNEC) group is having its annual Stop the Killing, Start Living and Choose Peace rally today, Saturday, Oct. 22 in the heart of Pine Hills at the old J-Mart plaza  (now called Max Plaza) at 2620 N. Hiawassee Road. Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The theme for the rally, in its 9th year, is simply,  “Celebration of Hope.”

Rally organizers use John 10:10 as a reference scripture:  “The thief does not come except to kill, and to steal and and to destroy. I have come that they may have life,  and that they may have it more abundantly.”

This has got to be one of the most unique community rallies held in Central Florida consistently to bring attention to efforts to stop or deter violence.

A good number of residents, community leaders, law enforcement officials, church leaders and others gather to sing and pray together,  share information and offer helpful services as well as listen to uplifting speeches.

There have been times in the past when people who participated in the rally would stand on some of the busiest street corners with signs or walk the streets encouraging people and speaking out against violence.

It’s a free event with music, live entertainment and good food normally donated by a local restaurant.

This event like the ones for other causes is about awareness. Everyone living, working and playing in Pine Hills and surrounding communities will know that people care about them, first of all and about what’s happening in the community. Goal is for improvement, for all of us to live better.

Radio Personality Steve January of Rejoice 1140 AM will serve as the master of ceremonies and Pastor David Uth of First Baptist Church of Orlando is the main speaker.

For more information or to donate to the effort contact Pastor Michael Kimbrough (407) 234-9619  or Dr. A.L. Helligar (407) 721-4817.