By Dave Hoffenberg
posted
Aug 22, 2012
On Aug 27, 2011 I was on my way to Boston. People told me I was
crazy because I was driving into the storm. But as we now know,
that was not the case. I woke up Sunday morning to a rain storm and
parts of Boston without power. Facebook began to blow up with
stories and pictures of the Killington area and I felt saddened
because I could not be there to help. I was not able to return home
until August 30 because there were no roads to get me there. I woke
up early Wednesday morning eager to help in any way I could.
Will Spanos, Steve O'Neil and I hiked through the woods of Mendon
with a cart full of supplies like gas, water, food, flashlights,
etc. We delivered the supplies to people in Killington and
Pittsfield. My heart sank and I became teary-eyed when driving by
the devastation. I feel the same way now when writing this and
remembering those days.
The thing that picks me up is seeing how this great community
came together. When we drove to Pittsfield and saw the whole town
helping out at the fire station, it was incredible. It was the same
way in Killington as everyone was willing to help. I made that hike
every day until Route 4 was open again. Whatever I could do, I did.
We were treating Killington Island like the TV show Survivor;
everyone was allowed one luxury item. Some it was cigarettes, a
fantasy football magazine or lipstick so they would look good on
TV. Whatever it was, it brought people a little joy and that's what
was important.
Sometimes we helped by getting people off the "Island." People
would hike over to us and I would drive them to Rutland for
supplies.
I've never seen people so excited to be in Rutland before. They
were thinking "I'm free" and even if it was just for a half hour,
it was great for them.
I've been in Killington for 16 years now and what I love best
are the people that make up this community. Whether it be a benefit
for someone sick or passed on, a fire to a home or a natural
disaster, everyone here comes together. The support came from all
over and that was special.
In November, I hosted a benefit over a hundred miles away in
Connecticut, raising money for the Irene victims, and the support
was overwhelming. Killington has that effect on people.
Now, one year later, we have the chance to help again. Please
come to Charity's Wednesday August 29, 5-9 p.m. for the Killington
Island Luau. Island attire is encouraged. It's a celebration of the
post-Irene progress and to raise funds for those still in need. A
$10 donation includes a lawn party with games, DJ and BBQ. Raffle
tickets will be for sale to win great prizes. All money raised goes
to the Killington Community Fund which helps out those still in
need.
Tagged:
Hurricane Irene, Reflections, killington
