Today's 10th anniversary of 9/11 has the media awash in replayed footage, but reflection can be turned into action. Firefighters in about 15 cities across the country suit up today in full gear and climb to the top of skyscrapers in memory of the 343 members of the New York City Fire Department who were among the 9/11 casualties. The
First Annual Kansas City 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb takes place at Town Pavilion (1111 Main, 816-474-5117). First responders from both sides of the state line begin ascending the stairs of the high-rise shortly after 9 a.m. Each local firefighter will carry an ID card of a lost FDNY firefighter. "It's going to be a pretty emotional day," says Dave Bova, the 29-year-old Lawrence firefighter who organized the event. Festivities include a bagpipe honor guard and firetrucks on display. Proceeds from a raffle and any donations benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. For more information, see
kansascitystairclimb.com.
— Crystal K. Wiebe
