United States

Memorial, Museum Planned for Site of Pulse Nightclub

"It is a time for Pulse to contribute to the community in a permanent way, a healing way

The owner of the Florida gay nightclub that was the site of the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history announced plans for a memorial at the property on Thursday.

Pulse owner Barbara Poma said she is creating a memorial and museum at the nightclub where 49 people were killed and dozens more were injured last June. She is also creating the One Pulse Foundation, to honor the victims, survivors and first responders, including scholarships in honor of those killed by gunman Omar Mateen.

"This is more than just building a structure," Poma said, "the ultimate design and function will be decided by this community."

Poma opened the nightclub in 2004 as a way to honor her brother, who died from AIDS.

"I now know that my role is to ensure that Pulse becomes a place of healing," Poma said. "It is a time for Pulse to contribute to the community in a permanent way, a healing way."

In the months after the massacre, the city of Orlando proposed buying the club for $2.25 million so it could be turned into a memorial. But Poma ultimately turned down that offer.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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