Dear Vega Family,

Having lived in Boston and having had our Boston office located just 3 blocks from Boylston Street, the recent events that occurred at the Boston Marathon have affected us all. Many of our staff and children live either in Boston or outside of Boston. Many alumni either are attending or attended school there.  We have not received any reports of injuries to members of the Vega family, but for those watching and running, the affect is profound.

I have a Boston apartment just 4 blocks from where the tragedy occurred. Although I was not present in the area, I would like to share that the city of Boston has a wonderful spirit of coming together to help one another. I feel that New Yorkers during and after 9/11 set the bar on heroism and responses for other cities to follow. In this case, albeit on a much smaller scale, Bostonians saw the same kind of spirit and determination to help.

The use for the up-to-date information on the unfolding situation regarding transportation, closures and missing persons is the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. (http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/). I found this useful and shared this with friends. Twitter accounts and other social media channels contributed, but were not always accurate.

Although there is not an immediate need, we know that local hospitals will need to replenish their blood supplies at the end of this week or next. If you live in the general vicinity, you can call 1-800-REDCROSS or by visiting redcrossblood.org.

We are heartened by the heroism of everyone who took action Monday and cared for those who were injured and needed immediate help. The loss of life, the injuries suffered, and the impact on the local community will be felt for some time. So many of us know someone who was running, watching, or volunteering at the Marathon, and our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved, especially to the surviving families who lost their loved ones.

Emily, Kyle, and I will be vigilant to address any concerns or feelings that surface on this subject this summer.  Our focus on our campers’ and staff members’ emotional well being and physical security is, and will continue to be, at the forefront of our minds.

With Loving Thoughts,

Linda

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