I'll end tonight's diaries with some kind words from Senator Jack Reed (D. RI) regarding the first responders of today's shooting at the D.C. Navy Yard:
http://www.providencejournal.com/...
"We as a nation will come together in support of the victims of this senseless violence," the Rhode Island Democrat said in a statement from Washington.
The senator said the nation is thankful for all U.S. Navy personnel who serve the nation as well as the first responders who rushed to shipyard shooting.
"Right now there are more questions than answers," he said, "but law enforcement will get to the bottom of this and every federal resource will be made available to ensure that they do." - Providence Journal, 9/16/13
I too would like to thank the brave first responders today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.
Some other sad news today. Rhode Island lost former Secretary of State and public television executive Susan Farmer (R. RI). Farmer passed away after a long battle with lung cancer:
http://ripr.org/...
Farmer became the first woman elected to statewide office when she won an election for secretary of state in 1982. Former Providence Journal political columnist M. Charles Bakst said Farmer was the leader in a wave of GOP women winning political office.
“Republicans led the way in this state. Five of the first six women who were elected to office were Republicans,” said Bakst. “She was a liberal Republican. In her day, that was the thing to be.”
After two terms as secretary of state, Farmer lost a run for lieutenant governor in 1986.
She went on to serve as president and CEO of Rhode Island’s public television station, now known as RI PBS, for 17 years. Bakst said Farmer helped raise the station’s profile by creating the weekly panel discussion show “A Lively Experiment.” - Rhode Island NPR, 9/16/13
The Rhode Island delegation and local politicians paid their respect. I'll end this with Senator Reed's quote:
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Susan Farmer, who was a political pioneer, a dedicated public servant, and a successful CEO. She gave her time and leadership to so many non-profits and community organizations throughout Rhode Island and was a real inspiration to so many. She will be deeply missed, but not forgotten.”
Rest in peace Miss Farmer.