LETTER: In shadow of tragedy, many helped to bring joy to parade

To Ozaukee Press:    

“Thank you” is a concise yet powerful sentiment of gratitude that sometimes is overlooked or shortened to a simple “thanks” in our busy lives. Therefore, I felt it necessary to reach out to our Ozaukee County neighbors with a sincere and heartfelt letter of thanks for all that was provided to Grafton as we chose to move forward with our annual Christmas parade Saturday.

In light of the very tragic event in Waukesha, a call was put out for assistance in ensuring the highest level of public safety during the Grafton Christmas parade. With very short notice, but without hesitation, the following agencies answered that call with additional staff or resources: Cedarburg, Port Washington, Saukville and Mequon Police Departments; Saukville and Cedarburg Public Works Departments; Waubeka and Thiensville Fire Departments; and the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office.

To all of them, I say thank you and please do not hesitate to call upon Grafton in a time of need.

I would be remiss if I did not take a moment to recognize and thank Grafton’s own staff members and the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce. They all worked together to make the difficult decisions that surrounded the event. Grafton’s Police, Public Works and Fire Departments all played a vital role in helping to reach the conclusion to move forward in the best interest of the community, while looking to ensure a safe environment for all.

This year’s Christmas parade not only carried with it the healing power of community, but also illustrated the selfless actions of many who played a role in providing this wonderful event.

The 41st Grafton Christmas parade was led with a message of support for the Waukesha community and I would like to close with my own personal offering of thoughts and prayers to all who were impacted. In the words of author Stephen Levine, “To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched with fear.” May the healing power of family, friends and the holiday season be with us all.

Jesse Thyes
Village administrator
Grafton