Date:

September 5, 2002

For More Information Contact:

Diane Gonzolas, Citizen Information Center, 441-7831

Mayor Don Wesely today announced the program for "Patriot Day Lincoln Remembers," a community memorial ceremony Wednesday, September 11 to observe the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. The program is scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Pinewood Bowl in Pioneers Park.

"I want to thank the volunteer committee organizing "Patriot Day" for planning a very special event," said Mayor Wesely. "The program will be a very fitting and patriotic tribute to those who lost their lives that day and those who courageously responded." The first 3,000 people attending will receive small flags.

The complete program and other details are available on the City web site, www.lincoln.ne.gov. Highlights include:

• performances by the Lincoln-based 43rd Army Band, made up of about 50 citizen-soldiers from the region.
• a naturalization ceremony conducted by the Immigration and Naturalization Service and remarks by two new Americans.
• a performance of "5,000 Heroes," by California-based singer and songwriter Kyle Vincent.

  Vincent was being interviewed by Lincoln radio station KBBK (103.7 FM) at the time of the attacks, and his song is included on a benefit CD produced by the station.

• the "National Anthem" sung by Officer Chassidy Jackson of the Lincoln Police Department.
• remarks from Governor Mike Johanns, Mayor Wesely, Lincoln Fire Chief Mike Spadt and
• Lincoln attorney Robert Otte, who will speak on behalf of one of the victims' families.
• the Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scout Troop #911.
• the dedication of a memorial tree at Pinewood Bowl.

On display outside the gates will be a Fire Department of New York pumper truck, now in the inventory of EDM Equipment of Lincoln. The truck was used in the first two seasons of the NBC television series "Third Watch." Several local organizations will also have informational booths outside the gates. Local charitable agencies have asked that no fund-raising efforts be conducted in connection with the event.

A designated seating area and an interpreter will be provided for those with hearing impairments. Pinewood Bowl is handicapped accessible. Families are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Candles are not allowed. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted, and coolers are subject to inspection. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase.

StarTran and Aging Services will provide free transportation to Pinewood Bowl. The StarTran shuttle to Pinewood Bowl will run from 5 to 9 p.m. and will pick up and drop off passengers about every 10 minutes at these bus stops:

• 11th and "J"
• 13th and "J" .
• 14th and "J"
• State Office Building
• 14th and "O"
• 14th and "P"
• 13th and "Q"
• 11th and "P"
• 11th and "O"
• 11th and "L"

Aging Services is offering free transportation for those 50 and older. Vans will pick up passengers and return them to their homes. Reservations can be made through noon September 11 by calling 441-7158.

In case of rain, the event will be moved to Pershing Center.