Staff Writer

Horrors of the terrorist attacks on America created a blanket of concern over daily activities on Tuesday.

Even the Troy City Council meeting was impacted by what happened in New York and Washington, D.C. and chose to cancel a budget meeting in light of the day’s events.

"This is a sad day for our country," said Troy Council President Johnny Witherington.

The regular council meeting was preceded by comments from two pastors ­ the Revs. Bobby Cox and Bobby Holladay.

Cox called the terrorist attacks "a nightmare" having both physical and psychological effect on Americans.

Those responsible took "God’s precious gift to us" by killing thousands who were going about their daily activities.

"We must come together as people of God, people of faith," Cox said.

Holladay talked about how everyone got up and prepared for what he or she thought would be a routine day.

"We are touched by this," Holladay said of the "vastness" of the destruction.

"I believe this will bring greater unification."

Holladay said he hopes Pike County residents will stand by and support the president and national leaders as they prepare and make some tough choices.

"Freedom in the world today is hurting," Holladay said, adding a call for a day of fasting and prayer to take place Thursday.

Both men prayed for blessings on the victims and their families, as well as the nation.

Mayor Jimmy Lunsford announced all flags on municipal property will be flown at half-staff in memory of Tuesday’s victims and the state of the union.

"We’re as close to being at war as you can be without it actually being declared," Lunsford said.

After the brief ceremony, the council took up some matter of business without Councilmen José Henderson and Jason Reeves in attendance.

A gas generator bid for Fire Station No. 2 was awarded to Williams Detroit Diesel in the amount of $10,131 which includes installation.

The council set a public hearing for 5 p.m., Sept. 24 to give citizens a chance to voice concerns over the proposed closure of the railroad crossing on Academy Street. Initially, CSX had asked that the Walnut Street crossing be closed.