This year marks the 20th anniversary of the attacks that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people on September 11, 2001.
In recognition, the City of Scottsdale is hosting a free 9/11 Memorial Tribute, September 3-12, at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. The center is open Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, Sept. 12 beginning at noon for the ceremony.
The tribute includes a mini-museum in the center’s atrium. The exhibition features the three-story National Unity Flag, photos and video from 9/11, and supersized props of the Twin Towers, Pentagon, plane wing and large metal flag made of steel, brass and polycarbonate. These specially built models will display a memorial card of every individual who lost their life on Sept. 11 in the attacks. The memorial cards were created and donated by Scottsdale resident Lisa Vella.
This year, the display will also feature Memorial Wreaths from City of Scottsdale departments, as well as other service organizations and groups. The intent of the wreaths is to honor the memory of the event as well as recognize the importance that the day is also known as a Day of Service. Those interested in participating with a wreath should send an email to [email protected].
“This week-long tribute is a chance for all of us to remember and reflect on the impact this event had on our community,” says Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “Out of the sorrow of 9/11 came a commitment to give back. At this year’s 9/11 Tribute, we encourage individuals to pledge to help a person, our community, or our nation through an act of kindness or service.”
There will be a special ceremony on Sept. 11. The reading of the names of those who lost their lives will begin at 1 p.m. in the atrium. The 9/11 Remembrance ceremony begins at 3 p.m. in the adjacent Virginia G. Piper Theater. Additional events will be announced as September 11 approaches. Visit scottsdaleaz.gov/fire to learn more.
