Lanier Library Executive Officer Peter Franklin loves to run, and has in his running history participation in the Olympic Torch Relay, not once, but four different times.

In addition, he was involved in organizing these complex and intensely detailed relays after joining the Coca-Cola Company in 1992. 

Ever wonder how the flame ignited, in Greece, stays lighted throughout its international travels — for instance, on airplanes? Or how many thousands of runners are involved, and how many people it takes to organize them?

Visit Lanier Library at noon on Tuesday, February 20 to hear the history of the torches, what it is like to carry one, and how this iconic event is organized.

The presentation by Franklin is free, and open to all interested in learning about this timely topic. In addition to the talk, visitors can see four of the torches up close in the display case at Lanier throughout the month of February.

Lanier Library is located at 72 Chestnut St. in Tryon

– Submitted by Clare O’Sheel