Hurricane Irene came to this peaceful mountain valley in August of 2011. With it came over a foot of rain which turned normally low or dry creeks into turbulent, turgid rivers which cover about 100 feet of pasture land and farms on both sides of the creek beds. fields became lakes with swift currents. And the water table rose. Dry basements had water up to the floor joists, wiping out furnaces, water heaters and water pumps, destroying the entire contents of basement, even threatening electrical fuse boxes.
Although the firehouse itself had been heavily damaged by the surging waters, it was the fire companies who tirelessly moved from house to devastated house to aid the victims along the road where most of the damage had occurred. They set up pump operations in each basement and patiently pumped the water out, came back again if needed, offered comfort and good humor; sometimes despite similar issues in their own homes.
I have been a member of the fire company for many years, but have been unable to respond to any calls in recent years. Instead, I have been a consumer of their services. I reluctantly called them during hurricane Irene, and help came. So many people were in such dire straits at the time.
The fire people are all volunteers. It was here that I found community in 2011.
Where I live makes a difference in community. There are only a few people in this area. We have always pulled together for emergencies and tragedies. We have often gotten together to celebrate the good times. It is a community where people are aware of each other, but not intrusive, and when the time of need is at hand, the community stands firm with you.
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