W-B seeks private cash for $1.3M tribute
City and county officials unveiled plans on Monday for a $1.3 million 9/11 memorial during a ceremony honoring those who were killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks.
Monument supporters say it will attract tourists from all over the United States and they're hoping residents and businesses will donate money to make it happen.
"Our goal is to make it the biggest and best across the country," said Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton during the event on Public Square. "So many lost their lives across the county. So many will come to see their 'loved ones' names on it."
The monument would be placed by a pond in Kirby Park. Names of the victims who died in the attacks would be inscribed on 11 granite pillars on the right and the names of the emergency responders who were killed during the attack would be placed on nine granite pillars on the left, said Alexander Belavitz of Facility Design and Development, which designed the plan.
I don't get it. Building an imitation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to commemorate events that didn't even happen here and hoping to cash in on it is a non-starter. I can think of much better uses locally for $1.3 million. The best comment on this crazy idea:
Why stop at 911? Why not create a whole park of monuments to events NOT associated with Wilkes Barre? You could include the OKC Bombing, the Kent State Massacre throw in some rides, concession stands and games like a Columbine Shooting Range, surround the whole place with a Matthew Shepherd Fence and charge admission!
Posted by: Texas Dave
Good points Gort, although I disagree somewhat on the Vietnam Memorial--I haven't actually seen the Luzerne County version--but if it has only the names of those from our area who were killed--that would be appropriate. I do not believe that a single relative of a 911 victim would trek to Luzerne County to see a loved ones name on a memorial--our area has not a thing to do with that tragic day; besides, there already exists a true memorial--the WTC site--which stands basically as a graveyard--hallowed ground. Mr. Mayor--have some sense--use the money to fix some of the infrastucture.
ReplyDeleteMaybe they could have a Jeffery Dahmer all you can eat BBQ stand.
ReplyDeleteThis is just another example of a Mayor that can waste money for his own Political agenda....
ReplyDeleteI'm claiming the Eternal Flame of Remembrance for the Victims of the Hindenburg Disaster for Nanticoke.
ReplyDeleteMaybe Wilkes-Barre can just set up a memorial to all their lost retailers. They wouldn't have to leave too many blank spaces.
This sounds like the Wild West museum Harrisburg's mayor wanted.
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