Today marks the one-year anniversary of the shooting that took place at the Route 91 festival. 58 people died that night, and hundreds more were injured. It remains the worst mass shooting in American history, one without (as of today) no known motive. It’s cold and it’s windy as I write this, which is a marked difference in the weather pattern of the last few days. It’s just a coincidence, but it’s easy to think otherwise in light of the circumstances. It was one of the darkest, most quiet days in a city always full of noise and beaming so bright you can see us from space.
Instead of ignoring the day or mourning it, the community is doing what it can to come together. If you’re around, check out one of the many community events taking place today. You can give blood down at the Las Vegas Convention Center or attend the Healing Garden wall dedication from 6:30 to 7:30 tonight. You can also attend the portrait exhibit currently on display at the Government Center. The exhibit features portraits of the victims painted by artists from around the world and will be on display until October 19. The Golden Knights are expected to attend the blood drive, as well as visit with Mandalay Bay employees. If you’re on the Las Vegas Strip, check out the marquee tribute at each casino that will take place later in the evening. If you can’t do or take part in any of that, contribute in your own small way with a random act of kindness in your own neighborhood.
If you or someone you know was affected by the events that took place a year ago, please know my thoughts are with you. My wish for you, today and every day, that you are able to find and hold on to some peace.
If you’d like to help out in another way, donations can be made to the Route 91 foundation. The proceeds go to the families and survivors of gun violence.
