The shooting on 12/11 was a tragic event. Two innocent people were killed and one was seriously wounded. Store employees and patrons were terrorized, and a whole community had its sense of security shattered. I know we all share in this grief and empathize with those most caught up in this senseless act of violence.
I would like to express my gratitude and admiration to all those whose actions helped prevent an even greater tragedy. To the Clackamas Town Center management for having emergency procedures in place and practiced. To the store employees who acted immediately to protect customers and themselves. And to the emergency personnel who responded so quickly.
I am also proud of how this community has come together. Kindness, sympathy, and emotional support have been offered to family, friends, and strangers alike. Last Friday, Board Chair David Russell, three other Board members, and I left the Chamber’s Christmas Giving Breakfast early and were among the many people who walked through Town Center as it reopened to show our support. I stayed for another 3 hours going store to store and thanking employees for being back to work, as well as greeting shoppers. My entire family attended the candlelight vigil that night.
Being a member of the Chamber of Commerce is all about coming together to achieve things that we cannot do alone. Your support is needed by encouraging everyone you know in this region to return to the Clackamas Town Center and the many nearby stores and restaurants for the remainder of the holiday shopping season. This visible show of support is important for everyone’s emotional and economic healing.
Thank you to all those who already responded to Your Chamber’s three email blasts to all Chamber member contacts (1329) expressing our concern and support, encouraging visits to the mall, and sharing the information listed on the Town Center website.
Please continue to keep the families of the victims, those who were present at the mall that day, and the community at large in your thoughts and prayers.