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LETTER: On murder anniversary, Paskall family says thanks

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The Editor,

It is hard to believe a year will have passed on Dec. 29 since my sister, Julie Paskall, the hockey mom, was killed in Newton.

On behalf of our family, I would like to thank everyone who assisted in the apprehension of her alleged killer and many others - the supporters who rallied with the family, then-mayor Dianne Watts and the City of Surrey, the hockey community and those at the RCMP and IHIT who provided the commitment to the family.

I also encourage the many people behind the "take back" program, to help reduce crime in Surrey, to continue their efforts throughout the year. We

must continue that effort, not only on the streets but in our homes to ensure that our lives are not challenged with the same things again. Be diligent and never give up. This is not a city matter or a provincial matter. It is up to everyone in the community to report crime, stop violence and eliminate drugs from our community.

To the news media, thank you as well. Your diligence in keeping the event in profile until the alleged killer was found was very much appreciated. I would encourage you to continue to support the community efforts to eliminate crime and promote the positives of our community.

Surrey seems to only make the news when crime or tragedy happens. There is a lot of good in the community, and also people who care about the future.

This has been a year of firsts without Julie: birthday, Easter, Mother's Day, anniversary, Thanksgiving and now Christmas. It has been a difficult year for the family. As we get closer to the New Year, we wish everyone the very best and hope our futures together will be bright and full of joy.