Tomorrow marks the first anniversary of the Inferno that consumed the ABC Daycare Center in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. As the fire and smoke were pervasive, the children very small (many could not walk), and only one exit in the entire facility, the loss was horrific. Some 49 children perished in that fire, and nearly another 40 were severely burned, to the extent that each will likely require at least two operations per year for at least the next 15 years (till they're 18), as well as ongoing care for themselves and their traumatized families.
I'm proud to say that we share a very long and strong Sister City relationship with Hermosillo (we're in Phoenix). That friendship, whose 35th birthday we plan to celebrate next year in Hermosillo, has included cooperation on issues of water, tourism,disability, business, and other matters. Firefighters, Police, Students, Teachers, Athletes, and many others have gained lifelong friendships that extend to entire families through various exchanges.
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