[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 122 (Thursday, July 19, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1039]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING THE INSTALLATION OF THE 7/20 MEMORIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE COFFMAN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 19, 2018

  Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the installation 
of the 7/20 Memorial in the City of Aurora. This memorial is dedicated 
to those who lost their lives, the wounded, and the countless families 
impacted by the theater shooting tragedy.
  On July 20, 2012, thirteen members of our community were killed and 
seventy more were injured when a lone gunman senselessly opened fire in 
a crowded movie theater. The crime devastated our community, the 
families who lost loved ones, as well as those who suffered lifelong 
injuries. Aurora was a city in grief.
  Out of this tragedy some good has come. To start, our first 
responders and caregivers admirably aided those physically and mentally 
injured. Our community also came together and has continued to support 
those impacted on that terrible day. Now on July 27, 2018, the City of 
Aurora is dedicating a memorial designed by the world-renowned artist 
Douwe Blumberg. Mr. Blumberg's piece entitled ``Ascentiate'' is located 
in a memorial garden added to the City of Aurora's Municipal Water-wise 
Garden. The sculpture displays eighty three cranes outstretched in 
flight to represent the victims of the shooting. Thirteen clear cranes 
in the middle of the garden represent those who lost their lives. This 
memorial is designed to provide comfort to those in need.
  I also want to acknowledge the efforts and commitment of 7/20 
Memorial Foundation which made this day possible: Board Officers: 
Theresa Hoover, Heather Dearman, Rena Medek Tiina Coon, Heather Bailey 
and Board Members: Bill Hoover, Terry Sullivan, Megan Sullivan-Jenks, 
and Jansen Young.
  Let us all remember this tragedy by recognizing the 7/20 Memorial 
Foundation for commemorating the victims and their families.

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