Bolinsky Views Sandy Hook Photo Exhibit

NEWTOWN- On Friday, December 13, Newtown State Rep. Mitch Bolinsky with other invited guests, and the general public had the opportunity to view Darien Photographer Robert Carley ‘s photography exhibit of memorials to Newtown tragedy victims at the Legislative Office Building and State Capitol concourse.

In prepared remarks, Rep. Bolinsky said,”Thank you, Bob Carley, for inviting me to this wonderful tribute on this, the day before the 1-year anniversary of the senseless shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. And thank you for this moving exhibit of healing, hope and the many heart-warming contributions made to our community by so many within and so many well-wishing friends from other communities, near and far. These and the thousands of beautiful acts of kindness help us all move forward.”

He then called for a moment of silence and recited the name of each of the 26 victims of the 12/14/12 tragedy, before continuing:

“Our thoughts and prayers continue in support of our Sandy Hook families who, each in their own ways bore indescribable loss and all, one-year later, at their own pace, travel their own personal journeys to make sense of a senseless act.

As a community, Newtown is a little more somber a place today but that too is part of the healing process. As a community, we have a wise and caring leader in Pat Llodra who has carried us all on her gentle shoulders and set the ultimate example of selflessness. She and many in Newtowners have led by example, performing acts of kindness and service to others, inside and outside our own town. The strength and resilience of Newtown is truly incredible! Healing through helping others has made us a positive example to others…

At the same time, Newtown has been the recipient of thousands and thousands of acts of kindness, large and small but each and every act and gift from individuals, communities and corporations has moved us. Many of the publically displayed acts and gifts are exhibited here today. Many others have been documented locally by Newtown Resident Yolie Molina through thousands of “images of love”. It’s all overwhelming and mere words cannot adequately express our collective thanks. But thank you, all.”

Mr. Carley said that about 90 percent of his pictures were taken in Newtown. The majority show crosses and doves, as they were the top two symbols people chose to use in their memorials. Carley used the time to explain in detail many of the photos in the exhibit.

Southbury-based artist David Merrill, who worked with Carley on many projects, said about Carley, “He’s very sensitive and does very good work. He portrays his subjects very well and knows how to use his equipment.”