Two beams of light stretched into the night sky above Santa Clarita’s Central Park on Sept. 11, marking 25 years since the terrorist attacks and honoring those who lost their lives. The city’s tribute at the River of Lights, located at 27150 Bouquet Canyon Road, symbolized the World Trade Center towers. It honored the nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks, first responders who later died from illnesses related to their service at Ground Zero and military members who answered the call to serve in the War on Terror. Mayor Laurene Weste, who attended the memorial, reflected on camera about the uncertainty and grief of that day and the courage of first responders. “We didn’t know what was happening. We didn’t know if America was under attack. And then we saw the horror,” Weste said. “Our heart went out to them and our firefighters here went to New York.” Weste described Santa Clarita as a patriotic community and said the anniversary offered an opportunity to remember those who died while reaffirming the importance of unity. “I’m so proud of our country for standing together and making the effort to remember and honor those who gave their life,” she said. The city worked with Illumination Dynamics to make the tribute possible. The lights were scheduled to begin shining at approximately 7:15 p.m., depending on sunset, and remain illuminated until 10 p.m. In a statement ahead of the anniversary, Weste emphasized the responsibility to teach future generations about the attacks and those who responded. “We must continue to tell their stories, honor their sacrifice and ensure that America never forgets,” she said. At the memorial, Weste said the twin beams served as a reminder of the strength found in standing together. “There’s more that unites us than divides us,” she said. “And we may have differences, but that’s okay. United, we will stand strong.”