ONTARIO POLICE DEPARTMENT  
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

DATE/TIME OF RELEASE: 06-07-00 8:00 p.m.

DATE/TIME OF OCCURRENCE: 08-04-00 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

LOCATION: ONTARIO AIRPORT MARRIOTT

2200 E HOLT BLVD., ONTARIO, CA

SUBJECT: SCHOOL SHOOTING SURVIVORS' TO SPEAK

STATEMENT:

On Friday August 4, 2000, survivors and surviving family members of school shootings from across the nation will meet in Ontario, CA to share their experiences, voice their opinions, and express their concerns in a "no holds barred" forum and press conference.

This will be the first time that survivors of school shootings from Littleton, CO; Virginia Beach, VA; Jonesboro, AR; Paducah, KY; Springfield, OR; and Deming, NM have gathered together in one place to discuss the similarities and frustrations of their experiences, mourn their losses, and share their hopes for the future. Many of these families are driving in caravans to Ontario, at their own expense, because they feel strongly in the importance of this event.

The event, dubbed "The Gathering" by survivors was prompted by a need to speak candidly about what had happened to their towns and families, even if the opinions were controversial or unpopular. For others, the opportunity was needed to help bring emotional closure. The Gathering was organized completely by volunteers from survivors, support groups, and the Ontario Police Department.

From 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, a luncheon will be held to honor the survivors, remember those who were lost, and to raise funds to help off set the survivors and families travel expenses. The cost of the luncheon is $25 per person. Additional donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.

From 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the school shooting survivors will have an open microphone to address the public and the media. The testimonies promise to be compelling, surprising, and highly emotional. Admission is free for this portion of the program, and the pubic is invited to attend. Seating is limited.

The Gathering will culminate with a Benefit Rock Festival and Expo at Chaffey High School in Ontario on Saturday, August 5, 2000. The Festival will feature local and established bands and comedians. The Expo will showcase teen social services, job recruiters, and skate demonstrations, and specialty vehicles. Press release on the concert to follow.

For further information contact Detective Byron Lee at (909) 395 - 2746


Victims/Families:

Stephanie Curtis (909) 986-0166
e-mail: Stephanie7524@aol.com

Charlene Butolph (541) 726-5911
e-mail: Robertab@uswest.net

Talent, Sponsorship:

Detective Byron Lee (909) 395-2746
e-mail: Firebasez@aol.com

EXPO:

Stephanie Curtis (909) 986-0166
e-mail: Stephanie7524@aol.com

200 North Cherry Avenue

Ontario, California 91764-4197

909/988-6481

 


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