Remembering Jan. 8
Vigil at UA will mark first anniversary of shootings
Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Calexico to perform
Tucsonans will gather Sunday evening at the University of Arizona Mall for a candlelight vigil to commemorate the first anniversary of the Jan. 8 shootings that claimed the lives of six and wounded 13, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who will attend the service.
The vigil, which is hosted by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona and the University of Arizona Medical Center, will begin at 6:30 p.m.
Ron Barber, Giffords' district director and a survivor of the attack, will emcee the event and the Tucson Symphony Orchestra will perform. Calexico, Giffords' favorite local band, also will perform.
There have been rumors that Giffords may lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Among those speaking at the vigil will be Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and Dr. Peter Rhee chief of UMC's Division of Trauma, Critical Care and Emergency Surgery, who treated Giffords after the shooting. Mark Kelly, Giffords' husband, also is scheduled to speak.
For security reasons, the UA is asking those who plan to attend to arrive after 4 p.m. Attendees also are asked not to bring candles — glow sticks will be provided.
Those attending should be prepared to dress warmly. Temperatures are expected to drop into the upper 40s by 7 p.m.
The university's parking lots will be open and there is metered parking around campus.