Paterson Launches Operation Beautification at Kenneth Lira 9/11 Memorial Park
photos courtesy of Operation Beautification
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
PATERSON, NJ — In preparation for the 25th Anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, Paterson Mayor André Sayegh joined local community members, city workers, and student volunteers to kick off Operation Beautification at the Kenneth Lira 9/11 Memorial Park.
Day one of the community restoration project proved to be a resounding success as volunteers rolled up their sleeves, picked up paintbrushes, and worked to revitalize the memorial grounds in honor of Paterson’s fallen hero.
Honoring Kenneth Lira: Paterson’s 9/11 Legacy
Twenty-five years ago, 28-year-old Paterson resident Kenneth Lira boarded a Manhattan-bound train for work on what would be his final commute. He tragically never returned home, becoming the only Paterson resident among the nearly 3,000 victims who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.
The Kenneth Lira 9/11 Memorial Park serves as a lasting tribute to his memory and a place of reflection for the entire Passaic County community.
Student Volunteers Lead the Way: Call for Afternoon Planting Help
The initial cleanup effort saw significant participation from local youth, including students from John P. Holland Charter School, who assisted with digging, clearing debris, and refreshing the park structures.
Organizers are extending an urgent call for additional community volunteers to continue the project:
-
Next Shift: Today at 5:00 PM
-
Activities: Planting flowers, landscaping, and final touch-ups
-
Who Can Join: All local residents, families, and community groups are welcome to participate.
Tell your story #TheRidgewoodblog , #Indpendentnews, #information, #advertise, #guestpost, #affiliatemarketing,#
-
Category Tags: Paterson NJ News, Passaic County Events, Community Projects, Local Government, 9/11 Anniversary Remembrances
Unfortunately, many if not most in Paterson will be celebrating 9/11 as a triumphant moment, not commemorating the vicious attack on our nation’s civilians.