As we near the 10-year anniversary of 9/11 and one of the most tragic events in history, I can’t help but relive the day in my head and remember where I was and what I was doing that day.
My family and I were living temporarily in a rental on Downey Street in Cole Valley while some work was being done on our home. Our oldest daughter Grace was just 17 months old. My wife Emily and I got a call just after 7 a.m. from a family member who told us there had been a horrible plane crash in New York City (where much of Emily's family resides and where we still have many friends) and that we should turn on the TV. Horrifically and surreally, we watched a second plane crash into the Twin Towers and both towers collapse on live TV. Emily's first cousin Jane lost her husband (Christian Maltby) who worked at Cantor Fitzgerald. He was a young father of three.
As the events unfolded that day and it became apparent just how horrific, tragic and scary the world had become, we really didn't know what to do. I was working as a deputy city attorney in the City Attorney's office but I knew I wasn't leaving my wife and young daughter alone that day. Em's classes at UCSF med school were cancelled and there was no day care for Grace that day. As we tried to cope with our own shock and grief and the likely loss of a family member, we also knew we wanted to keep things as innocent, safe and happy for our daughter.
How did we spend our day? At a park and playground, fittingly enough.
This Sunday, September 11, in remembrance of 9/11 and in celebration of the strength, courage and resilience of our nation, I invite you to come out to our parks and serve at one of three Recreation and Park Department tribute projects in partnership with HandsOn Bay Area, at Jefferson Square, Margaret Hayward Playground and Patricia's Green.
Volunteers will gather together at 9 a.m. at the Veterans War Memorial Building courtyard at Civic Center to honor the memories of the victims of 9/11 and then go forth to give tribute to the fallen by serving at various community projects around town. The Day of Service will begin at 9 a.m. with registration and a light breakfast, and at 9:30 a.m., a 20-minute commemoration program will begin. At 10 a.m., volunteers will disperse to their projects.
There is no charge to register but you must register to participate in the volunteer projects. Registered participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt.
Click here to register today.
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