MARYSVILLE – Representatives from Red Lake reservation, Minn., and Newtown, Conn., came to town Nov. 3 to give the Marysville School District a gift no one wants.

It is a Dream Catcher that goes to communities that suffer shootings in their schools.

“We are united in hope,” said Stephanie Hope Smith, Dream Catcher family coordinator. “I’m sorry we are united in grief. I’m sorry we have the experience and expertise to share.”

Susan Connelly of Newtown said the Dream Catcher is special.

“It’s made with such love,” she said. “We hope you never have to pass this on to another community.”

Marysville school superintendent Becky Berg thanked the children from Minnesota for coming on a 28-hour drive over two days to get here.

“It’s sad we’re connected because of something so similar,” she said.

John Oakgrove of Red Lake led those attending in a dance to an honor song.

“This is for healing,” he said. “When we hold hands we can’t fight.”

Mayor Jon Nehring was given a flag from Newtown, and everyone received a gift of a card made by a student at Red Lake. Cards from Columbine were placed at tables for a dinner afterward. And angels from Sandy Hook Elementary were available.

“You’re not just names in the news,” Smith said. “You can’t get rid of us. Our families are grafted, not by choice.”

Marysville school board member Tom Albright said he is “overwhelmed by the support” that has been given to the community.

Board member Chris Nation said the community has been fractured for years, but this has brought the area together.

“Out of tragedy comes a blessing,” Berg said.