Every face has a story. When I walked into the In Memoriam exhibition at the 9/11 Memorial for the first time, I was surrounded by faces of people whom I had never met - and yet I knew very well. For the past 7 years, their loved ones have told me their stories, showed me their pictures, and introduced me to their families. The tributes that I have helped them to create in the Living Memorial.
As the 9/11 Museum officially opens to the public today, I want to take a moment to acknowledge those who made this day possible. This has been a long journey and a collaborative effort that began just months after the attacks when families and others impacted gathered to discuss creating a fitting memorial. The Museum would not have been built without the leadership of government officials including Mayor Bloomberg. Governor Pataki, Senators Clinton and Schumer, to mention a few. Learn More.
When we count our blessings at VOICES, we usually start with our favorite couple, Kate and Duane Orloske. We were delighted to hear that our favorite couple was to be recognized by the United Way of Coastal Fairfield County as the “Outstanding Established Volunteering Couple” in New Canaan. The award, presented at a ceremony at New Canaan Library on May 6th.
David Brooks op-ed, "the Art of Presence" spoke to me. After the death of my son on 9/11 and the loss of a niece and nephew in other tragedies, I can associate with Catherine Woodiwiss' personal story. She eloquently articulates what so many families experience when they suffer a traumatic loss, whether they lost a loved one on 9/11, in a school natural disaster or a tragedy.
Karen Loftus from the Office of the Chief Prosecutor of Military Commissions asked us to send you information about hearings scheduled at Guantanamo Bay in April and June. Karen's email is below and you can view the current docketing order. There is a hearing scheduled in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba from 14-17 April 2014. All four of the CCTV sites will be open daily. If you need to update your badge, please let us know and we will alert the Visitor's Center of your expected arrival. Learn More.