There are events you will never forget where you were when you heard the news. One of those events took place on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.
Most of us were just starting our day. As I entered Mater Christi School to begin a day of teaching, I heard the news of a plane hitting the World Trade Center. The school secretary and I thought it was an accident until the second plane hit its mark.
After that we spent the day watching in disbelief at what had happened. The school children had questions, and we had no answers. With their books set aside, the students had become witnesses to history. Hatred had taken place in the cruelest form, affecting everyone.
Each year 9/11 is remembered for the lives that were lost, those who survived it and those who gave their help.
This year on Saturday, Sept. 11 we as a nation will honor those people. Because it is the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Riverside American Legion Post 488 and the Riverside Township Lions Club, in conjunction with Riverside Township, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Baker Group, will host a tribute starting at 1:30 p.m. honoring first responders. First, Matthew Scharpf and Lou Leone will entertain during Music by the River on the west lawn of the Riverside Library, 1 Burling Road, from 1:45 to 3:45.
Following the music will be a patriotic tribute by volunteer kayakers from the Riverside Sharks who will float under the Swinging Bridge where a large American flag will be hung. Musicians from Anderson School of Music will accompany the kayakers.
So on Sept. 11, we encourage families, friends and neighbors to attend to pay tribute to those who lost their lives that day, for those who have never recovered and to all first responders who seem to be called upon more each day.
Many members of the police and fire departments will be on hand, and this will be a chance to thank them for all they do. Many are called to serve and many answer the call and to you we say thank you.
