County Executive J. Mack Chandler would like to say that he will never forget the 11^th day of September 2001, The day will live in his mind forever and the world changed that day. The lives of 5,000 men, women and children were taken during this act of terrorism in three places in our country. They claim they did this because their so-called religion demanded the murder of those who did not believe the way they did. First of all, they are trying to take over the world not in the name of a religion, but a form of government that takes away the rights of all people. The Americans in New York, the District of Columbia, and Pennsylvania that they killed and maimed were what they thought would somehow scare Americans into, giving into their form of totalitarianism. They failed, we will not forget their terrible deeds on that day. We should always remember the ones who were lost and injured, and to pray for their souls and for the welfare of those families, friends, and loved ones who were left behind.

I also ask that we as Lawrence Countians keep our fire fighters, police and EMS service in our prayers as well and praise them for helping keep our county safe and secure, and taking care of our citizens when they are in need.