By Denise Rockenstein
There is nothing that gives me more pride in my community than the way it unites when the need arises. Whether it”s a bunch of women serving up lunch to send a child to a leadership conference or assist a woman in furthering her education, or a group of animal lovers dancing the night away to end pet overpopulation, efforts in our community are well supported.
On Sept. 11, 2001, our local firefighters did something amazing, which I see as a true testament to the heart of this community. In a single day, our firefighters raised $22,000 ? in our community ? to assist victims of the terrorist attacks that fell on New York City. That tells me that I live in a community that not only takes care of itself, but also others.
When I learned that there weren”t any public gatherings planned in our area to recognize the 10th anniversary of the most tragic event to ever touch our country, I was disappointed, and honestly, a bit ashamed because I know that our community is one that cares more than that. We share in joy and in pain.
I thought what a shame it would be if we let the day pass without an opportunity for the community to unite and share in its healing. So, a little more than two weeks before the anniversary date, I was at a Clearlake City Council meeting when, while standing for the flag salute, I thought to myself, “Even if we just gathered to recite the Pledge of Allegiance that would be something; something better than nothing at all.”
The next morning while at the dedication of the Lake County Veterans Memorial Highway, I approached Clearlake Interim Chief of Police Craig Clausen to pitch my idea and without hesitation, he jumped on board. I received the same immediate support when I asked Lake County Fire Battalion Chief Willie Sapeta for his help.
Together we worked quickly to coordinate an event and what transpired on Sept. 11 at Austin Park in Clearlake was more than I could have ever hoped for.
We soon enlisted the assistance of Karen Karnatz, of Jones and Lewis, who coordinated a viewing of “Remembering 9/11: Project Rebirth” for the event; and Clearlake City Clerk Melissa Swanson, who brought in Boy Scouts of America Troop No. 44. Sgt. Tim Celli and Fire Captain Brice Trask also helped with the coordination of the event.
When Rich Feiro said the Military Funeral Honors Team of Lake County would be honored to participate, I knew the event was turning into something special. Then Pastor Chris Massingill and Clearlake Mayor Joyce Overton also said participation would be their honor; I knew the event was complete and would be something our community could be proud of.
The immediate support I received from everyone I asked to participate was truly inspiring and was just a reminder for me of what a wonderful, caring community I live in.
Perfect Printers donated our event programs, which were beautiful and very appropriate to the occasion.
The programs were designed and printed in less than four hours after my request. The support of Mendo Mill and Four Corners Builder”s Supply, which both donated American Flags for the event, was also very much appreciated.
I want to personally thank all our veterans and emergency services providers who continue to provide for the safety of our community, locally and abroad.
I would also like to thank all those who attended the event to honor those lost on Sept. 11, 2001 and those who continue to fight for liberty and freedom in the war that has followed.
Denise Rockenstein is the editor of the Clear Lake Observer American. She can be reached at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or at 994-6444, ext. 14.
