Vigil Set Tonight Following Orlando Massacre

TYLER — Tyler-area residents are continuing to join hands in a spirit of peace and unity following the Orlando massacre. This evening at 6:30, a consortium of local groups representing the LGBT community and others will hold a vigil at Bergfeld Park honoring victims of the attack. Organizers say attendees should expect “peaceful, non-violent words and actions.” On Tuesday, the East Texas Islamic Society held its already-scheduled annual open house Tuesday evening in observance of the holy month of Ramadan. A huge crowd was on hand, and society spokesman Anwar Khalifa says after 13 years of holding the event, attendance gets better every year. Given what’s been on the news, Khalifa says that’s “very encouraging,” noting that “we’re all here for knowledge…and better understanding.” He adds, “I feel like it’s extremely important that we open our doors for our community.”