Tucson shootings

[Beertigger]

The "rock concert" atmosphere, in my opinion was inappropriate. The tribal blessing was out of place. Selling T-shirts at a memorial??? Really??? I'm actually a bit embarrassed by the whole thing.

Regardless, the events last Saturday were horrible. The losses of life, terrible. The injured, and all of those that were there will have to bear those physical and emotional scars the rest of their lives. The memories will last in our minds for a very long time. And, that is sad.

Nobody sold t-shirts. They were given away, placed on the back of every seat in McKale prior to the doors opening. Thousands more shirts were given away by UA student gov't volunteers to those who watched the memorial as part of the overflow in Arizona Stadium.

Not a single family member, witness or first responder told me they felt the atmosphere was inappropriate. I'd say theirs are the opinions that matter most. Everyone I talked to that night, and since, expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of love and support they've received.


d.

[Beertigger]

Thank you for sharing.

Not having been there, I cannot even begin to imagine the horror of such an act. The aftermath through which the families and the community of the slain and wounded must now live is beyond any words of mine.

I pray peace to the slain, and healing to those who are wounded in body and in spirit.

As to the national media, I simply offer the words of Abraham Lincoln:

"In times such as these, men should utter nothing for which they would not be willingly held responsible in time and in eternity."

That's a great quote, Duke. Thanks for sharing it.

[azwildcat96]

I didn't attend. I haven't spoken with anyone directly involved. My point was that it is not just the outsiders that are looking in on Tucson thinking certain things...there are locals that are thinking them too. I still feel the "event" was a bit bizarre. Just my opinion.

Speaking of the T-shirts, is it true that some scum-bag(s) is selling them on ebay and other internet outlets? I'd heard that rumor. This is the sick sh!t that makes me upset!

[Beertigger]

Speaking of the T-shirts, is it true that some scum-bag(s) is selling them on ebay and other internet outlets? I'd heard that rumor. This is the sick sh!t that makes me upset!

Regrettably, that is true:

Ebay vendor selling memorial knockoffs can't spell 'Tucson'


There have been tons of ridiculous rumors running about: that the accused attended Gabby's synagogue, that someone fired back at the shooter, that the Loughner family had barricaded themselves inside their home and weren't letting the FBI in, and many more. All nonsense.

[Kilt]

Interesting article. Thanks for sharing.

[artificer]

Very well written, Beertigger.

Thank you for this.

[Woodsheal]

I wasn't at the event, but I find the remarks by the media commentators to be the thing that is odd, not the appearances or remarks at the memorial in Tucson. Where do they get off criticizing the seating arrangements, the mood of the Tucson crowd, or the crowd's desire to recognize those in their community who came together in response to the tragedy? That is perhaps the height of arrogance and presumption. Unbelievable--petty and unprofessional.

Not all media commentators were critical. I heard part of Hannity's radio program the next day, and he consistently defended the memorial event and its "mood" - making the Irish wake comparison of tears and laughter, at once mourning and celebrating the departed.

Good article...!

[Bill aka Mole]

Very well written, Beertigger.

Thank you for this.

***!

[Beertigger]

Thanks for the kind words, folks.

If you're so inclined, you might consider sharing a thought or two on the piece, or another of our reports. It's very meaningful for some of those involved to know that people outside of Tucson are holding them in their thoughts.


be safe,

d.

[macwilkin]

Not all media commentators were critical. I heard part of Hannity's radio program the next day, and he consistently defended the memorial event and its "mood" - making the Irish wake comparison of tears and laughter, at once mourning and celebrating the departed.

Good article...!

David Gergen was also at first taken by surprise of the mood of the service, but then came to realize the cathartic effect, thanks to the observations of John King, who was on the ground.

T.