IMPERIAL— The Imperial Valley 9-11 Stair Climb Committee held its 10th annual 9-11 memorial Stair Climb on the evening of September 9 at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds.
Hundreds of participants, including several local public safety agencies, came together to honor the heroes of 9-11 and pay tribute to the 343 fallen firefighters, 60 fallen law enforcement, and 10 emergency medical personnel who selflessly gave their lives that Tuesday morning in 2001.
“We’ve had more than we’ve ever had,” said Tiffinie Macias, business assistant for the Imperial County fairgrounds. “In the Valley, we’re kind of last-minute people, but this year, we had over 400 people pre-registered. “
The idea was started by Matt Zen from the El Centro Fire Department, who wanted to unite the community to remember one of the worst days and celebrate some of the bravest acts in America’s history.
“I figure you know how to put on an event, so I just want to put the idea to you,” said Macias when discussing Zen’s phone call with her about creating the memorial. ” So I looked up 9-11 more and noticed in California that we only had one staircase in San Diego, so we’re actually the second one ever to do one in the state of California. Now they’re all over.”
They registered with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation but decided to create their own this year to manage funds.
“We’re really happy with our turnout so far,” said Macias. “Even though it’s hot, last year it rained on us, and we had to change our whole layout. We went back to the original plan in the grandstands this year.”
Each participant received a badge of a first responder’s story to honor during the climb. Macias said writing those stories was emotionally challenging but meaningful.
Those who chose to participate in the symbolic stairclimb walked the equivalent of 110 stories of the World Trade Center. After the opening National Anthem ceremony, the walk began at the grandstand’s bleachers, around its field, and up the bleachers, to represent the steps of the WTC. This is repeated three times. Participants may have also opted out of climbing and continued walking counter-clock wise around the field.
“The ultimate goal is to give back to the community, especially the fire and police departments,” said Macias.
The organization plans to provide scholarships for Imperial Valley College students, including those studying fire, EMT, and police. In addition, they will also be constructing a 9-11 Memorial near the KXO building at the entrance of the fairgrounds.
“This is all just a design base right now, so nothing’s built yet,” said Michael Harvey, Treasurer for Imperial Valley 911 Memorial Committee. “But we have a place right where you walk in from the fairground.”
