As Western New York and the nation stop to reflect on the horrific events that changed the world on Sept. 11, 2001, Russell J. Salvatore marked the somber anniversary at the "Patriots and Heroes Park" in front of his restaurant, Russell's Steaks, Chops, and More, at 6675 Transit Road, on Tuesday.
New 9/11 Memorial Announced, with Steel to Salvatore
On Tuesday morning, Don Lorentz of the Orchard Park Chamber of Commerce announced a new 9/11 memorial from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will be commissioned and designed for Salvatore, honoring him as one of Western New York's finest citizens for all he has done in the community. That memorial will then become a part of Salvatore's "Patriots and Heroes Park."
Also at that time, actual steel from the former World Trade Center, allocated from the New York Port Authority and molded like the Twin Towers, was presented to Salvatore by Thomas McDonough, representing the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. In remarks, McDonough recognized Salvatore's patriotism in designing and maintain the park. He also noted it is rare that actual steel from the World Trade Center towers is used in the creation of a memorial.
The timeline to create and complete the new memorial is 2019, with an anticipated police-escorted delivery close to Memorial Day.
Currently, there are two 9/11 memorials on display at "Patriots and Heroes Park" that were designed by local artist Don Parrino. The morning presentations were made in that area.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors the sacrifice of firefighter Stephen Siller, who laid down his life to save others on 9/11. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation also honors military and first responders who continue to make the supreme sacrifice for this country.
Russell's Steaks, Chops, & More and Russell's Grand Hotel is located at 6675 Transit Road, Williamsville. Call 716-636-4900 or visit
www.salvatoresgrand.com.
