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John Hollenhorst reportingThe last few days have been a brutal strain on the families of Mark and Lori Hacking.
And today they indicated they're temporarily bowing out of the daily media spotlight.
The search center has been humming all day. And the big volunteer turnout is certainly heartening for two families under enormous stress.
They've not only had to deal with the disappearance of a loved one, but also with suspicions swirling around her husband.
At home in Orem, Lori's family is getting strong support. Neighbors put out yellow ribbons symbolizing their hope for a safe return.
But as the two families held their latest news briefing, they said they're exhausted.
They announced that Scott Dunaway will now speak for them.
But Lori's mother took a moment to dispute some published reports. In spite of Mark Hacking's lies and his unusual behavior the day Lori disappeared, Lori's mother says there is NOT a division between the families.
Thelma Soares/ Lori Hacking's Mother: "We love Mark as if he was one of our own sons, and the Hackings love Lori as if she were their own daughter. If anything this tragedy has brought us closer together."
Scott Dunaway/ Spokesman for Families: "We hope that this community will continue to rally in support of these families in helping us to find Lori. It is so important that we not get distracted, that our primary mission is to find Lori and bring her home."
The families did get a pyschological boost from today's big volunteer turnout. And they'll get another one tonight.
Lori's lifelong friends have organized a candlelight ceremony. It's at 9 pm in Memory Grove.
