Severe winds, rain, downed trees, road hazards, area- wide power outages: None of it was enough to stop those in our community who look to serve others regardless of the personal sacrifice required.

Among them were Meals on Wheels volunteers driving through hazardous conditions to deliver extra meals to isolated, disabled/senior citizens, as well as Red Cross volunteers setting up, manning shelters and providing both physical and emotional warmth around the clock to help those in need.

Even those who routinely sacrifice their own safety for our welfare, our police and firefighters, stepped up to do in addition to their important responsibilities, everything from delivering cots, food, supplies, generators and personal assistance when and where needed.

Volunteers and staff from Senior Services of Island County, Help House and other non-profit groups were out checking, helping, distributing, assisting when conditions were at their worst. County, city and Puget Sound Energy workers, out during some of the most hazardous periods, in some of the most hazardous areas, worked around the clock to help our community return to normalcy. And I’m sure I haven’t mentioned many of the other unsung individuals and groups who checked on us to give what assistance they could when we needed it.

So I ask that we remember the storm. That we remember how important it is to be prepared for the next one. But most importantly, that we remember and are grateful to those among us who represent the heart of our community, the wonderful people willing to help others when things are toughest. Many thanks to you all, for all you have done!

Mike McIntyre

Oak Harbor