Thursday, Dec. 22, announces the start of winter when the solstice occurs at 12:30 a.m. The community is invited to gather at 7 a.m. for a ceremony and observation of the sight of the rising sun uniquely, on this day, cradled by the southeastern-most pillar of the Sun Circle at Beach Bluff Park on the Swampscott-Marblehead town line.

Since the Sun Circle was completed by the 2009 autumnal equinox, every solstice and equinox sunrise has been dramatized by the Sun Circle sculpture where Don Orne has led a beautiful ceremony which celebrates the start of each new season.

The Clifton Improvement Association continues to sponsor a ritual evoking three rich dimensions of life: art, science and mystery. Representatives of each of these aspects will contribute to the ceremony: sculptor Bruce Greenwald will describe his construction of the Sun Circle, astronomer Jim Keating will explain the science of our planetary journey, and Don Orne will offer blessings and evocations to lift the spirit.

Attendees are invited to bring readings or songs and participate in the event.

“Having witnessed solstice and equinox events for two years now,” said Greenwald, “I have been astounded how each is spectacular, not only with the peaceful and educational gathering of our community, but with the stunning variations in atmosphere and weather that create a new experience every time.”

KH Krena, wife of Greenwald, added, “Photographing the sculpture at sunrise and listening to astronomer Jim Keating have motivated me to learn more about science: the geology of the 12- to 16-million-year-old Sun Circle stones; the elegance of astronomy, and the sun and its effects on the Earth. I know that others have also be inspired.”

“I know how happy everyone is with the beautification of the park,” said Lynn Nadeau, the President of the CIA. “It looks just great! Landscape designers Dempster of Marblehead and Roberta Levy of Lynn did a beautiful job this summer. “

“The park was restored; we made sense of it as both a viewing platform (the ocean, the arc of sky), and as a place of restful corners, flourishing plant life and soft rambling pathways," said Dempster.

"A most gratifying way to memorialize family or dear ones is by adding a plank or bench to the meandering seaside walkway in our beautiful community park at Preston Beach. Call me at (781) 631-7469 and I'll give you all the details," invited Bob Segil, who has taken on the responsibility of managing the memorial planks.”

Added Sheryl Levenson, vice president, “We rely on the generosity of the public which we have received and are most grateful, but we have also received enormous support from different boards and departments of the Town of Swampscott as well as the much appreciated help from Lisa Hickey and the state community service program.“

The Beach Bluff Park is owned and maintained by the Clifton Improvement Association with volunteer energy and contributions. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission of preserving, protecting and improving the scenic, historic and natural character of open and public spaces.

If it rains on Thursday, the ceremony will be held on Friday, December 23, 2011.