I want to applaud those at the Hilton Garden Inn and Conference Center and everyone involved with this past Monday night’s observation of National Crime Victim’s Rights Week.

I want to applaud the criminologists from Old Dominion University who took their time out to attend.

I want to applaud the Nansemond River High School choir for singing at this heartfelt event.

I want to thank Charles Parr, City Council candidate from the Suffolk Borough, for attending despite his busy schedule.

I want to thank the police and all the city officials who attended with hopes that our justice system does not only punish, but helps make our victims whole again

— since that is what justice seeks after all.

Applause goes to Virginia Attorney General Bob McDonnell and everyone from the Commonwealth Attorney’s office for offering services that help victims deal with their suffering.

With the event being held in the new Hilton here in downtown, the only question left in my mind, and in the minds of those who attended is “Where is the mayor?”

I read his bio Sunday and it said he’s retired. They weren’t kidding.

Jeff Jones

Suffolk