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Like most, we sat dazed on September 11, 2001.  The next day I took this photograph of our children so our friends in Greece could be assured all was fine with us. 

We remember that day and all that went with it.  We'll never forget.

Hurricane Irene Upstate Devastation

Margaretville, NY, where we have a home was nearly destroyed during Hurricane Irene.  The devastation is beyond words.  Homes, farms and businesses are being condemned daily in surrounding upstate communities.  Relief and volunteer efforts are underway.  We hope you can help.

Local groups offering community support 

The Fleischmanns Community Church is accepting donations, canned goods, diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, bleach, cleaning supplies, and masks for the people to use while they are cleaning. The MARK Project (845 586 3500) is helping to locate temporary housing for displaced families. The Margarettville Fire Hall is serving meals (Call Via Christine DuBois at the Fire Hall during business hours, 586-6288, to volunteer for food preparation and serving). The Shandaken Fire House on Route 28 is taking donations of food, water, coffee, clothes, and other basics. The Belleayre Mountain Ski Center has also been accepting donations of essentials and providing meals and shelter.

Websites

The Catskills Irene Relief Resources website lists emergency relief efforts, including referrals for donations and volunteer opportunities, organized by county. http://irenerelief.forumotion.com/ 

NOFA-NY (Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York) is working to mobilize groups of volunteers to assist in area farm cleanup and relief efforts. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Lea Kone (email: Lea@nofany.org / phone: 585-271-1979 ext. 502.

Applications for emergency federal disaster funding:  http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY).

The Watershed Post continues coverage of the hurricane and flooding with updates on bridge and road closings and recovery efforts. http://www.watershedpost.com/tags/hurricane-irene

http://markproject.org/flood-relief-and-emergency-repair/