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John Lennon inspired people to believe in a different world view, one full of hope, peace, and opportunity. Since gun violence
claimed the life of John Lennon on December 8, 1980, more than 800,000 Americans have died by gunfire and another 800,000 have
been injured in the past twelve years alone. Gun violence is an unrelenting public health emergency in our country of truly
epic proportions. In 2002 alone, 30,242 Americans were killed with firearms. In comparison, a total of 33,651 Americans
were killed in the Korean War, 58,148 Americans were killed in the Vietnam War, and more than 2,035 Americans at last count have
been killed in the war in Iraq.
"Come Together" is a hopeful message signifying what Americans can do when they join together to solve a problem.
The Midwest state-based gun violence prevention groups in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin have come
together under the leadership of Freedom States Alliance, which is working to free America from gun violence through public
awareness campaigns. FSA is providing support and technical assistance to state-based organizations working to reduce
gun injury and death. Sally Slovenski and Scott Vogel of Mark Karlin Associates, a Chicago public relations firm funded
by the Joyce Foundation, are providing professional assistance.
Welcome to New Member
We welcome Craig Blanchet as a new member to our organization. Son of members Mary and Michael Blanchet,
Craig said he had read our newsletter in his parents' home and wanted to join after he moved next door to Ed and
Marian Towne. Craig and his wife, Kim, are both attorneys. They are parents of three children, two of whom
attend St. Thomas Aquinas School. The Blanchets are building a new home on Illinois Street, closer to the school.
Renew Your Membership
If you have not already done so, it is time to renew your membership in HCGV.
You may do so by clicking the
Join Us button bellow.
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