SEPT 2026. Blues Vol 42 No.9

READERS SPEAK OUT Y WE

READERS SPEAK OUT Y WE HEAR YOU DEVASTATING LOSS We are devastated by the tragic deaths of Karen and Kurt Solomon, and our hearts and prayers are with the entire Solomon family as they face an unimaginable loss. Karen was a friend and a passionate advocate for first responders and their families. She dedicated so much of her life to helping others through some of their darkest and most difficult moments. Through her work, she brought greater awareness to the mental and emotional challenges faced by those who serve, and she touched the lives of hundreds of first responders and their families. At the same time, we recognize the profound tragedy of Kurt’s death and grieve his loss. We extend our deepest condolences to their children, family members, friends, the Worcester Police Department, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking situation. There is still much we may never fully understand about the circumstances that led to this tragedy. This is not a time for speculation, but for compassion, prayer, and support for those who are grieving. It is also a painful reminder of something we cannot say strongly enough: no matter how desperate, complicated, or hopeless your circumstances may seem, help is available. Please reach out. 20 The BLUES SEPTEMBER ‘26 And just as importantly, check on the people around you. Don’t assume that because someone is strong, serves others, advocates for others, or appears to have everything together that they are okay. Ask the question. Make the phone call. Send the text. Sit with someone. And when something doesn’t seem right, don’t be afraid to ask again. We need to look out for one another—not only in moments of obvious crisis, but in the quiet moments when someone may be carrying far more than we realize. Talk to someone you trust. Ask for help. Give another person the opportunity to walk with you through the darkness. There is no circumstance so dire that violence toward yourself or another person is the answer. If you need someone to talk to, we have connections to people who can help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. You do not have to navigate a difficult season alone. We mourn the loss of both Karen and Kurt, and we pray for comfort, strength, and healing for their children, the entire Solomon family, their friends and colleagues, and the first responder community in the difficult days ahead. CONRAD WEAVER, FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS SOLUTIONS RESERVES IN THE 70'S I was happy to see you write about Reserves in last month's BLUES. I stated my law enforcement career at the Harris County Sheriff's Dept. back in 1975. At that time I think there were 3,000-4,000 Reserves in the Sheriff's Dept alone. Each month, we were required to attend a monthly meeting at the old court house at 301 San Jacinto. The meeting would start off with all the Reserves in the jury assembly room for a 30-45 minute meeting with the reserve chief and his majors talking about something they felt important. Fact is, there were so many people crammed in that room, you couldn't hear a word they said. Afterwards, each company (the Reserves were divided into Company's depending on what division you were assigned to) would meet up in your assigned courtroom with your Captain, Lieutenant and Sergeants to hear what they had to say. Afterwards, there was an inspection of the entire Company's officers and their uniforms, you were handed your assignment for the month and then dismissed. Thousands of men and women volunteering their time to serve their community. Putting their lives on the line for FREE. While there are still Reserves today, it's nothing like it was back then. RESERVE CAPTAIN R. WALKER

The BLUES - SEPTEMBER ‘26 21