It has been nearly a year since all of our lives changed forever. Sept. 11, 2001 will forever be etched in our memories. As we approach the one year anniversary, I would like to reflect on what that day and the following days meant to many people within the Town of Hempstead. I would also like to extend an invitation to a remembrance ceremony.

On Sept. 11 at 8:30 a.m. Hempstead Town will be marking the anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks of one year ago with an open air ecumenical program at Point Lookout Beach. The program seeks to provide participants with comfort and healing. All Long Islanders are welcome to attend.

Sorrow, loss and horror were constant companions for many in the wake of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. However, courage and patriotism were also demonstrated in the aftermath of 9/11. While our hearts were broken, our resolve has been unwavering.

The way in which our nation came together is unsurpassed. Volunteers rushed to help in any way possible and the stories of heroes in our midst continue to come to light even a year after the tragedy. Whether it was neighbors collecting money to help victims' families, firefighters rushing to Ground Zero or a smile and kind word for somebody who was suffering, the heroism that has been shown in the past 12 months has been awe-inspiring.

As we continue to cope with the after-effects of the attacks on our country, we look forward while remembering those who have been lost and the sacrifices that have been made. Our thoughts remain with the members of the armed forces who are currently fighting to ensure our freedom, indeed our way of life. A year ago there was a flag at nearly every home and on each car you passed in support of our country. Now, a year later, the number of flags visible has dwindled, but our support of the country in which we live has remained strong.

I wish to extend my support to all those who lost friends and family members last year as this difficult anniversary approaches. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who are suffering as we continue to remember and try to cope with the events of last September. Please join me and other Long Islanders at Point Lookout Town Park as we look forward to a brighter future and reflect on the losses we have suffered over the past year.