Friday marked one week since the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting that left 20 first graders and six teachers dead.

Friday night, North Georgians braved frigid temperatures and high winds to gather in honor of the victims.

Holding candles, they took time to honor the lives lost and pray for those left behind.

Those prayers came from parents and local children, who have a message for the people of Newtown.

Dozens of people gathered outside Cloud Springs Elementary School, as pictures of the 26 victims scrolled by. In glove covered hands, families held candles with messages of hope and peace.

Friday morning Chattooga County joined other counties across the state in ringing the courthouse bell for each of the lives lost in Newtown, Connecticut. The idea started in Hendry County, where McDonough Mayor Billy Copeland enlisted the help of the Georgia Municipal Association to spread the word. Bells were rung 26 times starting at 9:30 a.m., once for each of the 20 children and  six adults killed in the December 14 tragedy. 

The US Postal Service has established a post office box for letters of condolence to the victims of the Connecticut school shootings and their families.

If you'd like to express your sympathy send your letter to this address:

  • PO Box 3700, Newtown, Connecticut 06470.