Thursday, April 19, 2007
Governor Culver Declares Day Of Mourning
Governor declares day of mourning at the request of Virginia governor
(DES MOINES) Governor Chet Culver has declared Friday, April 20, 2007 a Day of Mourning for the victims of the Virginia Tech shootings.
Virginia Governor Tim Kaine declared Friday a statewide Day of Mourning in Virginia and sent a letter to other governors asking them to join in the effort.
In his letter, Governor Kaine wrote, “As this tragedy impacts not just Virginia, I encourage you to consider standing with Virginia. It is clear that difficult days lie ahead as we all embrace the grieving process that is sure to come. Again, I thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask that you keep Virginia Tech in your hearts and minds as we all work together to overcome this horrific tragedy.”
Answering Governor Kaine’s request, Governor Culver, a 1988 graduate of Virginia Tech, will hold a brief service near the Liberty Bell at E. 12th Street at 10:50 AM. Following the service, the Governor will ask for a moment of silence and bell will be rung at 11:00 to honor the victims. Where appropriate, the Governor requests that in churches and public institutions across the state, bells be tolled during this time of observance.
“My heart goes out to those whose lives are forever changed by the tragic events that took place on the Virginia Tech campus,” said Governor Chet Culver. “I continue to be distraught that the peace and joy I enjoyed during my time as a Virginia Tech student has been shattered for the thousands of students who live and study there today. I stand with Governor Kaine and offer my prayers and anything I can do as Governor to help ease the pain and find ways to ensure this never happens again.”