To the Editor:

What a pleasant surprise it was to see the nice article and photo in The Newtown Bee about Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. I would like to acknowledge all who generously gave their time, money, and effort to making the day special for honoring the Newtown Police Department.

First and foremost, I’d like to thank two members of Congress who represent our town and state in Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes and staff donated the American flag which flew over the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. for Officer Kling, and Senator Richard Blumenthal and staff donated the flag for Officer Poruban (as well as proclamations for the rising water rescue of a couple and their one-year-old son last August).

I’d like to extend my sincerest appreciation to the local businesses who so generously donated complimentary meals throughout the day for our heroes in blue. Jeff Dymerski, owner of Dunkin’ Donuts on Queen Street, who donated thirty breakfast sandwiches and more, and Julia Douglas and Dan Rosenthal at Newtown Savings Bank, who donated the funds for additional breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and donuts, Kisha Burke of Bank of America for sponsoring the lunchtime pizza party, Big Y World Class Supermarket store manager Shawn Norris for providing afternoon cupcakes, and The Newtown Board of Realtors for generously picking up the dinner tab for the evening police staff.

Last, but not least, our biggest thank you is saved for Newtown’s Police Department, who are there for us 24/7, including every holiday. I hope your town’s efforts on January 9th made you feel what National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is intended to do.

Lois Imbriano Barber

Sandy Hook