December 20, 2012
Newtown In Our Prayers
Last week, our brothers and sisters in Newtown experienced an unimaginable tragedy. Across this state and country, our collective hearts are filled with sorrow for the innocence lost. I have conveyed our deepest sympathies to Newtown First Selectman Patricia Llodra and told her that all of Colchester stands with Newtown in their time of need.
For weeks, we will be trying to figure out why this occurred or the reason behind such unspeakable evil. In the end, perhaps all that will remain are unanswered questions in a world that seems to be too cruel to comprehend at times.
Nothing we do can change what happened yesterday. As a parent with young children, I was overcome with sorrow and anger as the events progressed throughout the day. We send our children to school not expecting that anything like this would ever happen and events like this reminded us how precious life is. Perhaps all that we can do at this moment is simply pray that nothing like this ever happens again.
Community Vigil
I want to thank all who attended the community vigil we held for Newtown. It was remarkable to see the community come together to grieve with, and support, our neighbors. I especially want to thank all of the clergy who put the vigil together on such short notice.
We will continue to announce ways the community can help our friends in Newtown and I know that the Colchester’s generosity will be shared with others. All we can do right now is provide comfort for those who need it and I want to thank all of you who have done something to help ease their pain.
Security
The events in Newtown have led to a lot of questions across the state about security and how we can prevent and better prepare for these situations. I am constantly working with our emergency responders to ensure we have the necessary resources and planning to keep the public as safe as possible.
We are very fortunate to have a strong team of professionals and volunteers who are ready to respond when needed. Over the next few weeks, we will continue to review and revise our plans as we learn more details about how Newtown happened. The highest responsibility of government is to protect its citizens. We will continue to work every day to make sure everyone in town lives in a safe environment.
- Gregg Schuster
First Selectman
Previous Selectman Notes can be viewed at
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