To the Editor:

Last week I sent an email to friends inviting them to SHOP's Passport to Sandy Hook event.  After a few people commented on it, I decided to share that email with all of you – inviting you to an event that truly celebrates our incredible community.

A year ago when I sent an email inviting friends to Passport to Sandy Hook, our community was in a different place.  While those of us close to home knew the beauty of the Pootatuck River, the unique shops, the delicious eateries, the friendliness, kindness, and smiles, most of the world did not.  Now, the world has seen us - in our darkest days, and since we have begun to heal and recover.

It's hard to think of Passport to Sandy Hook as a day to come and discover Sandy Hook this year, because it seems the whole world has had a chance to discover us. But, still, I invite you to come and rediscover Sandy Hook, to get to know our treasures, to experience all we have to offer.  We are Sandy Hook.  We Choose Love.  And on October 12, we invite you to join us.

From 11 am - 4 pm on October 12, over 30 businesses welcome you to Sandy Hook Center.  Get your Passport stamped at all of them, and be entered to win a prize package worth over $2,500.  While you're there, enjoy live music, a bounce house, face painting, visits with the Newtown-Strong Therapy Dogs and Bocker the Labradoodle, Newtown Jugglers and Circus Arts, and more!

Please visit www.ExperienceSandyHook.com or RSVP to our Facebook event (3rd Annual Passport to Sandy Hook) to learn more! And of course, please spread the word to your friends!

Hope to see you there!

Sarah Hemingway

10 Overlook Knoll, Sandy Hook                  September 23, 2013