To the Editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to recognize, and thank all those involved with the rescue and recovery efforts in Colerain caused by Hurricane Matthew in my absence.

To Milton Felton and the members of the Colerain Volunteer Fire Department for leaving the safety of their homes and families, to unselfishly respond to numerous rescue calls, often putting their own lives at risk. Also for their assistance in clearing the roads so the power company could work to restore power to the town. You are a blessing to this community.

For Bill Harrell, mayor pro temp, who initiated and oversaw the recovery efforts so that power was restored in a timely manner, and for any other town business that was managed in my absence. You have my heartfelt thanks.

To all the first responders, the sheriff’s department, and BAS, who weathered the elements, making sure their services were accessible to all, Colerain thanks you.

Thank you to PIKE power company for helping to restore power, and get the town up and running again.

For all the workers at the shelter at Colerain Elementary School who made sure that those who were displaced by the storm were kept comfortable and that their needs were met. Thank you for your time and sacrifice of leaving your own families to provide for others.

And last, but not least, to the people of Colerain, those neighbors helping neighbors, looking out for one another, if only just to see if they were okay.

Although I was not in town during Hurricane Mathew, all the updates received let me know that Colerain was in good hands, and I couldn’t be more proud to be a resident of such a wonderful community.

So thank you Colerain, for being the special, caring town that you are.

Tom Walcul
Mayor of Colerain