I am particularly saddened by the tragedy at Umpqua Community College, as my wife and I lived in Roseburg, Oregon for three years after grad school in Eugene when I took a position with the local newspaper, The News-Review.
Roseburg was a wonderful place and we have many fond memories of the community. It was particularly close knit in the best kind of way and new comers were welcomed. Our first child was born in Roseburg at the same hospital where the UCC victims were taken. Former Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber, a friend, was an emergency room physician at the time we lived there.
The only “bright lights” in Roseburg were those at the football stadium. With just a single high school, following the football and basketball teams was a source of community pride. A rafting trip down the North Umpqua River was regular summer pastime, floating past the verdant bluff of live oak trees upon which Umpqua Community College was situated.
Above all, Roseburg felt secure and safe, leaving the front door of the house unlocked was not a big deal. I am saddened that once again in my life, a place that holds great memories, is forever darkened for generations.
In listening to the news reports, the college that I attended, Virginia Tech, was mentioned frequently; a painful reminder that the school shooting madness is inescapable. The school shootings are nothing less than domestic terrorism. It is time for our government to pursue those deranged and with murderous intent with the same ferocity as foreign threats.
I abhor the politizing of these tragedies. Gun laws can only accomplish so much. These shootings are the burden and precious toll of a free society and the thin line that marks the precipice of personal freedom and the need to protect our citizens.
See something, say something. God bless the people of Roseburg and give them strength at this time of horrific loss.
John Robert Hill is a resident of Everett.
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