To the Editor:

I'd like to offer a thought concerning the Sandy Hook Memorial. Ginny and I are Sandy Hook residents for over 40 years and probably consider this as much our home town as anywhere else. We have experienced too many tragedies in that time span, but have always been impressed with how Newtowners rise to help during these terrible times. This is a very special town.

When I think back to that December, one of the memories that is burnt in my mind is the makeshift memorial that was put together in the center of Sandy Hook. Barring the intrusive national media, the outpouring of the people, from all over, was wonderful and beyond belief.

When discussions were starting about a permanent memorial, I couldn't help thinking that somewhere in or near the Sandy Hook Center, maybe along the river, would be a perfect spot. Something elegant and not intrusive for the local businesses. A place were people can walk to and leave some thoughts or prayers. For me, there is something soothing and even spiritual about rushing water heading back to sea.

I hope the committee will give this some consideration.

Respectfully,

John and Ginny Chion

10 Cobbler's Mill Road, Sandy Hook                                                             August 8, 2016