Praise for the volunteers

Dear Editor:

Parryville, which was hit recently by a tornado (or micro-burst), experienced devastation which we only thought the Midwest was known for. Living through the aftermath of cleanup, no power, etc., this community has benefitted from the kindness and generosity of the following businesses who offered water and ice to our residents:

Mallard Market in Lehighton, Jim Thorpe Market in Jim Thorpe, Boyer's Market in Lansford, Miller's Country Store in Lehighton and Redner's in Nesquehoning

Thank you! Thank you! (I know that there were other places like Giant in Lehighton which experienced loss of power and were dealing with their own damages, but would have also donated if they could.) This is what life is about is helping each other, in good times and in not-so-good times. We live in a great place, a great community, and blessed country.

Most of all, I would like to thank the volunteers of Parryville Volunteer Fire Company. They had their own losses to deal with from the tornado and loss of power, yet they did what they do ... serve others first. Moments after we lost power and had the trees come down blocking our street, I heard the vehicle sirens of our Fire Chief, Art Strohl, and his family coming to the rescue of whomever and however they needed it. Mike Kunkle, Fire Company President, had his own property devastation, yet he was helping the community. They set the example for the other volunteers. And the volunteers follow their leaders.

How can this community ever thank these volunteers enough? Maybe as we are living our lives and we see a sign that says, "Volunteer Fire Company Breakfast" or a community picnic that they are hosting or a fund drive or a bake sale or ... (you fill in the blank) we can support them by attending, volunteering, donating goods or money, etc. They don't have to put their lives on the line, but they do ... for you and for me, for our parents and our pets, for our children and our chattels.

Thank you, Volunteers! May God bless you and keep you each safe.

Cathy Hawk

Parryville