Planning Underway for Annual 9/11 Tribute in Lamar

Doug Harbour at 2012, 9/11 Tribute

A repeat performance of the local tribute to 9/11 first responders is over a half year away, and an organizational meeting to map out the second annual event was held this past Monday, February 4,  at the Lamar Chamber of Commerce offices.

 Doug Harbour, working with Voices of Southeast Colorado and Voices Unidas, originated the first tribute on September 11, 2012, entitled, “We Shall Never Forget 9/11” which was held at the Prowers County Courthouse.  Harbour is planning another tribute which will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2013 at the Prowers County Fairgrounds.  He recently requested and received a waiver of fees for the facility from the Prowers County Commissioners. 

There will be a lot of similarity between the first event and the one set for this September, but Harbour is seeking to broaden the appeal to the public and the offerings which can be featured at the fairgrounds.  Preliminary ideas include an opening parade to the fairgrounds which could be staged either from Willow Creek Park or downtown Lamar, honoring and selecting the parade’s Grand Marshall, a community barbecue at noon, a chili cook-off, entertainment for children and a series of vendor’s booths which could highlight the operation of various EMS, Police, Fire and First Responder groups from a three state region.

 Although the concept is in its earliest stages, Lamar Fire Chief Marshall Cook and Prowers County Undersheriff Ron Trowbridge recommended communicating with regional representatives as soon as possible, making them aware of the event and clearing time on their calendars to be able to attend.

By Russ Baldwin