New York Terrorism (Conference Call Remarks)
September 11, 2001
Let me begin by saying that the events today constitute a tragedy, the magnitude of which is not known yet and won’t be known for some time. I’m sure I am not alone in saying that I am still in shock over today’s events. But I will say that I have bowed my head in sorrow and I have prayed in earnest over what will be a tremendous loss of life. I want to extend my sympathy to the loved ones of all those who were involved.
We’ve known that we live in a potentially dangerous world, one where there are many who wish America harm. But I’m sure the result of today’s events will be a further loss of comfort, of security and of innocence for many Americans.
This morning, after learning of the first attacks and conferring with state and federal safety officials, I sent non-essential state workers home early, I ordered that schools be closed and I recommended that businesses also consider closing. That decision was not based on any known threat to Delaware.
With new attacks coming at a scary pace over the morning, we decided to take the most cautious route and send state employees and school children home. This is a difficult time for our country and our citizens. Parents were concerned and I wanted families to be able to be together.
At no time has Delaware been in a state of emergency and there has not been a cause for panic. Today and the days ahead call for caution and awareness. That is the course we have taken and that is the course I advise all citizens to take.
Public safety organizations have gone on a heightened state of alert. The National Guard, State Police, Capitol Police and DRBA police have all called in extra people and are taking extra security precautions at their locations, as have county and municipal police agencies.
Citizens who would like to help in some way can give blood. The Blood Bank of Delaware has been overwhelmed with volunteers today, but the need for blood will continue over the next two weeks and the Blood Bank asks that people donate blood later this week or early next week. That can be done by walking in anytime to Blood Bank offices in Newark, Dover and Salisbury.
We have not made decisions yet about the status of state offices or schools tomorrow but we will let you know.
I thank you for giving me a chance to speak to the people of Delaware and I want to reiterate that there is no known threat, but that caution should be taken in all settings and situations.
