Very Emotional Memorial Is Chosen To Honor 1 October Victims

It’s hard to believe, but we are approaching the six-year anniversary of one of the most devastating days in Las Vegas history. 1 October. Just writing that phrase makes me sad. However, from tragedy comes strength and inspiration. With that in mind, the Clark County 1 October Memorial Committee has recommended a permanent memorial project.

The committee has chosen one of five submitted project designs for our community’s permanent memorial site. According to an article by Stephanie Overton on 8NewsNow.com, JCJ Architecture’s "Forever One Memorial" is the winning design. You can take a look at the entire proposed project and renderings of what it will look like by clicking here.

Overall, I must say, the renderings are breathtaking. As a matter of fact, I teared up quite a few times while reading the descriptions. By and large, the JCJ Architecture website explains the memorial's design mission better than I can. "The proposed Las Vegas Memorial is to honor the 58 victims, support their families and survivors, and acknowledge all the emergency responders who assisted those in need that fateful night."

For one thing, I really admire how the journey through the proposed 1 October Memorial begins. As you know by now, there were 58 shooting victims who died at the Route 91 Harvest Festival on October 1, 2017. The “Forever One Memorial” journey will start with a 58-foot tall “Tower Of Light.” Even better, the tower will be visible from many points around the Las Vegas valley and along The Strip.

Particularly, I think the “Surround: 22,000 Points Of Light,” will also be a very emotional section of the memorial. There were approximately 22,000 concert-goers in the audience that fateful night. For that reason, there will be a 1,600-square-foot circular chamber. Inside, curved screens will display moving pixels of light. Per the JCJ Architecture website: “Each pixel can be a photo that has been uploaded by a family member or concertgoer that comprises the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival community.”

All in all, I believe our entire city is looking forward to experiencing this very moving tribute to the victims, their families and friends, and those who lived through that harrowing experience.

October 1, 2017, is a sacred day in Las Vegans minds as our city came together after the largest mass shooting in the U.S. On that day we lost 58 innocent lives and two more later on from complications making the total of 60 lives lost. Las Vegas locals came together in a time of need displaying resilience and bravery. Five years later, we recognize and honor the lives lost and the lives sacrificed by being #VegasStrong. We continue to share our stories and support our neighbors every October 1 with ceremonies to pay tribute.

The Clark County Museum is hosting a 1 October Remembrance Exhibit, open to the public, from Wednesday, September 28 to Thursday, October 13. The exhibit can be found on the first floor of the Clark County Government Center, located at 500 S Grand Central Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89155, inside the Rotunda Gallery. The Art of Healing mural and Angels of Love exhibit are two of the major features that will be showcased during this period of time. The museum's websites states that they will also display exhibit banners and "other items from the museum's collection."

Observe nine extra tall panels that illustrate teddy bear images which depict the lives lost from the tragedy of Route 91 Harvest Festival. Read over the condolence messages that go along with the panels from the public that were written in 2017.

During the first anniversary of 1 October the Angels of Love organization from Orange County, California, donated a special exhibit to the Government Center. The exhibit revealed stained glass angels for the lives that were lost and injured. The first responders who dedicated their time and energy in a time of need were also honored with special memorabilia.

The Government Center is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can find our more details about the government center, the museum and photography rules on their website HERE.

Larry Martino is the long-time afternoon drive personality on 96.3 KKLZ. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of Larry Martino and not necessarily those of Beasley Media Group, LLC.

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