Born in the Storm.....A follow up from the Flooding in South Carolina

I took this picture in the Columbia South Carolina area last fall.  Believe it or not, it is 10 days after the flood waters were attempting to recede.  This is a river....with water covering the tree trunks.  I hope that gives you a sense of the how much water this area had to deal with in a very short period of time. 

I have written about the efforts in the Lower South Beltline area by the amazing volunteers previously.  Please see this post  for more of my first-hand account when my husband and I went to join in the efforts to help those who were impacted by this natural disaster.

I continue to watch the volunteer effort through social media and am amazed at the goodness and Christ-like service from the many volunteers who continue to serve the impacted residents of this area.

The following Video was produced by Les Carroll describing some of the efforts of the many volunteers shortly after the Flooding occurred.  It is well done and worth your time to view it.

"And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."  Matthew 25: 40


The good folks of the South continue to set the bar....

It's A Matter Of Using Social Media during an Emergency....

This is a road that I used to drive on to go in to town when I lived in South Carolina.  If you look closely, you will see that the workers are standing near the edge of a big flood.  Just know that there are several lanes of road under the water.  This is a major thoroughfare in Columbia SC.  The flooding took place in early October.  I wrote about this topic somewhat in this post.  

I had the opportunity to go down to the impacted areas of Columbia as I happened to be visiting.  I also know many good people who are helping those who have been displaced.  I have watched in awe as so many service-oriented individuals have jumped in to help in a variety of ways.  How did everyone know what to do and what to donate?  It has been done and continues to be done with Social Media.

Social Media during an Emergency....

Within days, the S.Beltline Community had a Facebook page up and running. After posting pictures of the flooding and damage, they started posting needs. Here is one of the first posts from this community:

Here are some of the early posts from this group of volunteers:  (These posts were put up within a couple of days after the flooding).

"We will be starting our first Community Tent today around 10:00 this morning at the corner of Glenhaven and Whispering Pines Circle. PLEASE PARK at the Pinewood Baptist Temple at 1510 S Beltline Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205. It's a short block down Glenhaven to check-in at the Community Tent."

"FANS, FANS, FANS! We need FANS - box fans or commercial grade- we REALLY need these to air out several homes. And if you have an extension cord, PLEASE bring it too! Pls put your name on anything you bring so it gets back to you! When you sign in at the Community Tent, we will do our best to note any items you bring as a reminder. THANK YOU!"

URGENT NEED!!
We desperately need a SUMP PUMP ASAP!! House has 4 ft of standing water in a house on Timberlane!!

Magically, people and needed items began to appear. These are brand new fans that were just dropped off for anyone who may have needed them.

Just one day later, the needs list grew:

UPDATE ON NEEDS FOR TOMORROW:
After you drop off items, PLEASE park at Palmetto Baptist Temple at the end of Glenhaven!! There will be many more commercial crews on the street that will need access to houses/street parking.
IF ANYONE HAS A GOLF CART TO BRING & SHUTTLE VOLUNTEERS,THAT WOULD BE FANTASTIC!
Friday will be a BIG sorting, cleaning & demo day, so we'd love to have ALL HANDS ON DECK! smile emoticon
#1 Need - **PLASTIC BINS - assorted sizeds for packing salvaged items (stand up better with damp items)
*PU trucks for moving salvaged furniture/items
*Wheelbarrows (we promise to give them back when you leave!!)
*HAND SANITIZER (never enough....)
*Push Brooms
*"TO-GO" meal containers so volunteers can take meals directly to the residents
*Packing tape "guns" for tape rolls we have or individual packing tape dispensers w/serated cutting edge
*Heavy duty work gloves
**Latex & non-latex gloves (everything is still pretty wet)
**SIZE 12 / LARGE Ladies clothing (loose fitting/comfortable)
**DIET & REGULAR SOFT DRINKS (for caffiene and variety)
THANK YOU SO MUCH TO ALL OF OUR VOLUNTEERS, GRACIOUS/GENEROUS DONORS & WONDERFUL VENDORS!! We could not have gotten through today without you!!
We hope to see you soon! 

Who are these people coordinating and working together?  Which government agency is managing all of these needs?  NONE!  These are volunteers from Columbia and the surrounding communities.

Requests for Hard Hats, Wheel Barrows, N95 masks, Gloves, food, and hand sanitizer were constant.  The need for Volunteers was mounting...

The Sewer Treatment Plant had also flooded.  This meant that sewage was mixing with the Flood waters....as were 'critters' such as snakes.  Volunteers had to be very careful to protect themselves.

PLEASE READ THIS ONE AND PASS ALONG: I spoke with (individual)  this morning. Her husband has been very involved in getting medical care for volunteers. She wants me to share that if you've been working in and around these contaminated waters and you have any doubt at all about your last tetanus, you need to head over and get a booster. This is for anyone who needs it. Help me share this with various work site pages.
2 hrs ago- Columbia, SC ·
Wound care and tetanus shot updates continue SATURDAY and SUNDAY from 9 am until 8 pm. If you have any sort of cut or scratch from cleanup work AND it's been 5 years since your last shot, come get one. 4811 Devereaux Road, 29205.
Shout out to great workers from Palmetto Health, Columbia Fire Department, and Richland County EMS!

Local businesses provided food to those who were impacted and the volunteers.

Here is a post from a local Volunteer:

"Spent the afternoon with my daughter handing out water to residents in some severely affected neighborhoods near Midlands Tech. Many of the residents were Spanish speakers, so I called my Son at BYU and asked him to talk to the Hispanic people and ask them what they need. (One man told my Son he was hungry, so I called Marco's Pizza on Rosewood and they delivered a dozen FREE pizzas that my daughter and I handed out with the water. 

Then we went back to get more water and made 2 more trips to Marco's and picked up another 40 or so pizzas and distributed those to citizens in need. 

Super Kudos to Marco's Pizza, who made no attempt to sell pizza, but used all their supplies on hand and made hundreds of pizzas that were given to hungry people!!"

The next day....

"So, after the cool experience yesterday, decided to do more of the same today. Loaded up with water and headed out to the same apartment complex -- armed with 30 Chick-Fil-A sandwiches -- thanks Chris Eckert and Christopher Callaway at the Garners Ferry Road store. Took the Spanish-speaking LDS missionaries with me and we found several groups of Spanish-speaking people in their apartments (multiple families) and gave them food and water. Then we invited others to come to the Church later and we'd have more food. We fed about 30 people at the Church with food prepared and delivered by the Spanish group of the Church at Windsor Lake

I restocked with 10 pizzas from Ci Ci's on Garners Ferry (thanks Juan!) and fed folks at the Church and went back into the apartment complexes. 

Also got donated food from PDQ (thanks Michael .... and Tim Tebow, whom I found out is one of the investors).
People were so gracious and humbled by the help, and I just really enjoyed seeing their smiles." 

Meetings were set up to work with the City, County, and Federal programs. All were advertised in social media:

We have been providing DSNAP information for over a week. If you are in Richland County and want to apply, DSS says here is when/where you need to go:
Week of November 2 – 6:
Word of God Church and Ministries
119 Diamond Lane...See More

SC flood victims eligible for food assistance programs, no matter income level

South Carolina residents who lost property or income due to this month’s historic flooding are now eligible…

SOUTHCAROLINARADIONETWORK.COM

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As you might expect....there were rumors that needed to be addressed:

There are many rumors and myths that are percolating out there. Here are some FACTS about rebuilding, permits, etc. 

1. FEMA has NOT moved the flood plain as a result of this flood. FEMA and Richland County GIS show the 2002 FEMA flood zones. Some floodplain areas were revised in late October 2014 and again in August 2015, so determining whether your property was included or excluded from the 100 year flood zone as a result of these revisions could mean the difference of what type of permit you need and whether you have to bring your property up to code and raise it. 

2. No final decisions have been made about who can and who can't rebuild. The County has not committed to nor started the process for buying out properties. 

3. As for whether your house must be raised/brought up to current Code depends on whether you are in the 100 year floodplain and if so, whether your expense to return the home to its ore-flood condition exceeds 50% of the fair market value of your building/home. You may be required to get an Elevation Certificate, which must be prepared and certified by a Licensed Land Surveyor, Registered Professional Engineer or Registered Architect who is authorized by state or local law to certify elevation information. The certificate is used to confirm whether you are in the 100 year floodplain. Because the value-to-expense calculation will vary per property, each "rebuild/raise" determination will be different. 

4. If the homeowner has decided to relocate instead of rebuild, that changes the direction for FEMA, so residents need to give that info to FEMA if they have already made that decision. Then an SBA team takes your case to pursue their mortgage loan option for the house you choose for relocation. Your current mortgage lender(s), if you have mortgage(s), will need to be involved in the process should you not have enough money to payoff your existing mortgage(s) [short-sale]. 

5. If you are in the 100-year floodplain, you will need an estimate from a licensed residential or general contractor in order to pull a permit and perhaps more depending on whether your property is in the City of Columbia. If you hire a licensed contractor, which officials recommend, they will pull the permit instead of the homeowner.  

6. Regardless of who pulls the permit, all mechanical tradesmen (subs like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, etc.) will also have to pull a SEPARATE permit if your house is in the floodplain.  

7. Inspections for substantially damaged structures are tentatively set to begin this week for Richland County properties. These are done in conjunction with FEMA using 4-person "teams." All Richland County inspectors will be in Richland County vehicles. Before allowing anyone in your home, county officials recommend that you get a picture of the inspector, their ID badge and business cards. If they will not provide this or if you have any question about the inspectors or the inspection, Richland County officials suggest you call (803) 929-6000 ASAP to verify.  

8. If you are in a condo or town home that shares common walls and/or roof, FEMA considers the entire building as a WHOLE. They do not look at these as individual units even though they have different tax numbers. If one of those units is in a flood plain, then the entire building is considered to be in the flood plain. 

9. There are opportunists and ne'er-do-wells popping up everywhere saying their business has "permits" to begin work. Those with hanging "city" tags are NOT city employees and they do NOT have permits. Those "city tags" are merely business licenses they have to buy in order to solicit their services. The City and County HAVE NOT ISSUED ANY PERMITS TO BEGIN WORK IN OUR AREA. 

10. The green and yellow signs the County stapled on doors do NOT have anything to do with determinations for rebuilding, etc. Those signs were posted after a preliminary inspection to say whether or not it was safe to enter or inhabit the house. 

10. The valuation of your home/damage is determined locally using FEMA's inspection process based on an upcoming inspection of your property. Who handles the valuation and permitting depends on whether your property is located within the City. If it is, then you will apply for permits with the City. If you are not in a municipality (unincorporated), then the County will handle your permitting. 

11. Don't even think about starting work without a permit! This could cause your permitting fee to as much as DOUBLE, delay your rebuild and seriously affect your ability to sell or insure your home in the future.  

12. For more information on permits for unincorporated properties located in Richland County, go to http://www.richlandonline.com/…/BuildingCodesI…/Permits.aspx  

13. For information on permits for floodplain properties within the City of Columbia, go to http://www.columbiasc.net/development-inspections

Each day, the needs are posted from tearing out, removing debris etc.  (This load of Plywood was donated to help the displaced families comply with the legal  requirement to board up their homes). Just to get a feel for the current needs, here is a list of wanted items/volunteers that was  posted for today (Sunday 11/1/15)

SUNDAY'S NEEDS: LESS RAIN!!!URGENT NEED: VOLUNTEERS!! Come help us hang the plywood and finish debris cleanup!! We will also have donation sorting and boxing.PLEASE DROP OFF all donations @ 100 WHISPERING PINES CIRCLESTILL NEEDED:Gallon-sized zip lock bagsWindow cleanerDishwashing liquidClothes detergent pods(easier to separate than liquid or powder)BroomsHandles for 12 oz. mop headsHand sanitizer (8-10 oz)Children & Adult underwear & socks(All sizes)Baby food -VegetablesMany thanks to all the angels who appear with these items throughout the day.Our volunteer crews have been working day/night + in the rain to help the residents of MORE THAN 50 homes + apartments with their tear outs, debris removal, water and mold abatement! And we will not stop helping them recover. ‪#‎laboroflove‬ ‪#‎southbeltlinestrong‬ ‪#‎floodfamily‬ ‪#‎floodfriends‬

There are so many types of service being offered.  Last night the volunteers hosted a Trunk-or-Treat event for the families that had been displaced.  (This picture makes me weep...)

Take home message.....

• This community did not wait for the Governmental Authorities to come. They saw a need, organized themselves, and reached out to the community.
• These folks used Social Media to share needs and requests for help.  The people in the immediate area were asked to share this page to inform others about what the needs were and how they could help.  It had hundreds of 'likes' in a short period of time and now has nearly 2,000 likes. (By clicking 'like' folks can see the posts from this Service Group).
• I witnessed cars driving past and dropping off needed items.  Volunteers from many Churches, College Students, groups from other cities (Spartanburg, etc) and States (I saw a group from Alabama). Folks were coming from all across the country to help.  
• Thousands of hours of volunteered service have cleaned out homes, helped remove debris, set up a make-shift store where all items are free (clothing, diapers, furniture, appliances), and this weekend are putting up plywood over doors and windows.
• These volunteers have committed to stay here and help for the long haul.

St. Matthew 25:40  "...Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

I am grateful for the tremendous service and sacrifice these volunteers are offering folks they often don't even know.  I feel blessed to witness this miracle unfolding through the use of social media.  The "Class" being taught by this group of volunteers continues to be in session... May the Lord Bless them all in their continued efforts to serve their fellow man. 

If you are in a position to help financially, please go here:  https://www.gofundme.com/southbeltlineclean. 

It's A Matter of the South Carolina Flooding Relief Efforts.

How would you react to your street filling up with water....very quickly.

Would you know what to do as the flood waters moved closer to your front door?

Would you be thinking of how you are going to get to work as damns and bridges begin to give way?

What would your thoughts be to see the road you took your children to school on after it had become a river?

These, and a lot of other questions are being addressed in the wake of the flooding in the Columbia South Carolina Area.   Literally dozens of roads have been washed away or closed, many damns have been breached, and the mighty flood gates of the Lake Murray Damn have been opened to attempt to manage the inundated low country.  

In the early part of October, torrential rains fell quickly.  People found that they had to move quickly to either protect their homes, or evacuate.  Many lost homes, some lost their livelihood.  So what did the good people of South Carolina do?  They jumped in and began to work.

Volunteers began to gather needed items for those who had been displaced.

A command center was placed in one of the effected neighborhoods.

Volunteers from several denominations and businesses began to arrive. Initially they were from the local area, but within days people from other states began to arrive to assist in the clean up.

The Media came and went.

But the volunteers kept coming, the supplies keep coming, and the folks keep moving forward. There is no rioting or angry protests.  Instead, there is calm, gracious service.  There is care and concern and willingness to help at a moments notice.

A friend and resident of the area wrote a very beautiful summary of how things currently are.  My thanks to Janie S for her eloquence:

News From the Flood Front

Well, all the national media have taken their super star announcers and their bright lights and cameras and gone home. Moving on to the next story. And here in South Carolina, we carry on, with neighbors helping neighbors. Here’s what’s going on in my part of the world: 

Everywhere you see work trucks and workmen from all over the southeast, fixing our roads and bridges, keeping us from traveling on unsafe travel routes. Me, when stopped yet again by another new roadblock: “If this road is closed, can I go that way?” Answer: “Ma’am, I don’t know. I’m from Tennessee.” 

I drive through previously beautiful , prosperous neighborhoods, and see houses cleaned out to the studs, daylight visible from one side through to the others. And the owners precious belongs (pictures, rocking chairs, books, china cabinets) all piled on the side of the road in a huge, broken mass as giant trucks with huge claws scrape up the debris, crush it and dump it into the waiting maw of the truck. 

I’ve volunteered in a neighborhood disaster relief center, set up on a street corner by a lawyer who felt she needed to do something. It has grown into a vital hub of the relief effort, staffed by volunteers from all walks of life, serviced with meals from all sorts of organizations, and offering food, clothing, cleaning supplies and tools to whoever needs them. 

I spent the afternoon today in a small trailer in Eastover SC, packing up the entire insides of this home. FEMA said the entire floor and duct work had to be ripped out and replaced because the water had lapped the bottom of the trailer and mold was starting to grow. Mold is the enemy here in SC. And other friends will be there tomorrow to do the ripping out. 

Over 400 roads and more than 150 bridges were washed out during the 20+ inches of rain in two days. Interstates were closed, dams failed, homes and businesses were washed away or flooded to the roof, and 19 people lost their lives. Lost lives can never be replaced. About half of the roads and bridges have been repaired, with a target date of after Thanksgiving for the majority remaining. There are detours everywhere, and it takes twice as long to get anywhere. Rush hour traffic is a nightmare. 

School in Richland One is on a one-hour delay for the foreseeable future, as it takes so long for the buses to navigate the winding, circuitous routes they must now take, avoiding closed roads. 

The boil water advisory has finally been lifted. The dam above the canal that supplied water to most of Columbia was breached, and it took almost two weeks to repair it. Some wells in outlying areas are still compromised. 

And so much, much more that I have not mentioned – the churches, the civic groups, the individuals, the companies – all just pitching in and working together, with no thought of recognition or reward. 

Everyone is helping everyone. I really have not heard much complaining. We are just getting through this. No looting to speak of, no anti-government tirades. Just facing forward, looking for that tired, weary, “I don’t know what to do now” face in the crowd and offering a helping hand in whatever way is needed. “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 12:40

South Carolina knows how to serve their neighbor.  It is our tremendous opportunity to observe, learn and apply their powerful lesson.  Please take note....class is in session.

(For the next few posts, I will share with you the things that are going 'right' in this Flood Relief effort.  I hope you will share the ride with me.  I am so thankful to these good folks for letting me observe and see their goodness in the face of great trial).

On The List......

Preparedness Websites:

I am a follower of many blogs and websites. I love to learn from those who share the same interests and concerns that I do. I am also grateful when good folks like you all take a few minutes of your precious time to read our blog. It is my hope that you find something of use, a nugget or two to use in your busy daily lives. Every once-in-a-while, I am touched by the kindness of others.  I have fortunate to be mentioned on various lists as a site to visit.  Just to be included on the same lists as other's who are notable is really a great honor.

I have never been at the top of the lists, but I am really just fine with that. I will continue to look and learn, search and find, and experiment and share in my efforts to help you be as self-sufficient as can be on a daily basis.  I do this not because I am preaching a doomsday philosophy. Rather, it is a 'real-life' philosophy.  My husband's business tends to be cyclical.  We have used our food storage, and DIY skills for years.....and have always been fine.

No one knows when they may need to call upon their preparations either in skills or with food or 'stuff.  One thing is for sure, if the day hasn't come to you yet, it most likely will.  I would encourage you not to put your head in the sand.....invest in yourself and your family.  Live with more peace, live with more confidence, live with the opportunity to share and serve others because you have taken the time and interest to become more self-sufficient.

Now, if you want to see where I landed....it was down on the list...but yet still on the list(s). Thank you to those who considered me and those who took a moment to vote.  While looking on the list, please visit the many experts listed!  You will be amazed and hopefully curious to learn more!

1.  EndoftheAmericanDream.com

2.  Survivorstop50.com

It's the end of another year.  It is the time that many reflect and make goals for the future.  Make a list, make a plan, learn!

Consider it!

If You Ever Serve in a Young Single Adult Ward....

I have had two different homes over the past 3 years. The above picture shows one of two different church buildings that reside on the same lot. Each building has 2 different Chapels, Relief Society Rooms, Gymnasiums, 4 Bishop offices, and a variety of classrooms.  This was my first 'home' beginning 3 years ago.

This became my second 'home' during the 2nd year of our service. This is the James E Talmage building on the campus of Brigham Young University (Provo).

In my second home, I was greeted weekly by Kung Fu Panda at the front door!

Inside this room, the Auditorium was transformed into a Chapel for Sacrament Meeting.  Then, it transformed again into a Classroom.  Everyone loved the cushy seats and Multi-media facilities.  One of my favorite Sunday School lessons was a "Family Feud" type of game that was put up on the big screen. Everyone loved that lesson!

Toward the end of my service opportunity, we again returned home to this beautiful building with this fabulous backdrop.

Each Semester started with new members of our Young Single Adult Ward providing their information.  We did it with a 'high tech' option using Google.

Then, new members were asked to write their name and apartment number on the glass of a frame.  They held these frames in front of them as their picture was taken for the Ward Directory (or Ward Menu depending upon who you were talking to).  I had the opportunity to take the photos, crop and enhance the photos (everyone wanted to look good you know) and publish our cyber Ward Directory/Menu for everyone in the ward.

There were lots of 'Fun and Games" from Sponge Volley ball, a giant Slip-N-Slide etc...

As well as taking on new challenges a few hundred feet above the ground.....

To providing needed service for others.

One common theme was food....

and food...

and more food....

Oh, and more food (Break the Fast).

If you are wondering where I am going, I am offering a very public "Thank you" to all of the Young Single Adults that we have had the opportunity that we have had to serve with them over the past 3 years.  Yesterday was a bitter-sweet day. My husband and I were released from serving with these incredible individuals. As it turned out, the Chorister did not arrive in time to lead the music in Sacrament Meeting.  I decided to pinch-hit.  Little did I know that the closing hymn was "God be with you 'til we meet again".  Let's just say I did a lot of smiling with tears streaming down my face as these tremendous young people sang this hymn with us.  I cried for 3 hours straight as I received hugs and "thank you's" from so many.  

So, today as I reflect on the tremendous opportunity I have had, I have decided to offer advice and suggestions to others who are called to serve with and blessed by these tremendous individuals. 

The Little Red Hen's suggestions for Sisters called to serve in a Young Single Adult Ward:

• You need to carry an Apron in your car:  I am not kidding.  You need an Apron as there is food at nearly every turn.  You will have the opportunity to provide meals and snacks for Family Home Evening, Break-the-Fast (each month), Barbecues, Camping Trips, Repelling Activities, Relief Society Weekday Meetings, and even Ward Council.  Don't be overwhelmed by this, just enjoy the journey. These YSA's traditionally don't eat a balanced diet or cook for themselves. They will express their appreciation and thanks for everything you do here. The hugs are 'payment' enough in my view.
• Learn to cook for a crowd:  I won't lie, this was overwhelming for me initially.  If you don't know where to turn, you really do have options. Check with trusted friends and family.  Often, I used Google and Pinterest to find new ideas of things to try.  You can even do a search for "Cooking for a Crowd" and find a lot of options. I learned that I can make a large Cheesecake in a Flat sheet cookie pan, make 'perfect' pie crust, make a variety of salads (pasta and fresh), make pulled pork in a Roaster Oven, and more.  I have learned to make a boatload of rolls using my bread machine to mix my dough.  Oh, and always have zip-loc type bags ready at all meals/snacks that you offer. These fun people are always game to take any left-overs with them!  I once learned that a YSA young  man ate a Queso-Blanco cheese ball and crackers from my home for a week as he didn't have time to go shopping.  I wish this was an exception....but it really isn't for some:)
• Learn to be Digital!  These folks are 'wired'.  They really don't know what it is like 'not' to be near a cellphone or computer. It has been part of their entire life.  I have learned to use Powerpoint and video when I taught classes. They are very attentive and you will have increased participation. As you might expect, there is constant change in a YSA ward.  I learned how to have orientation information, presentations, and the 'handbook' with highlighted information on my IPAD.  I have had to pull them out to help the newly-called Sisters learn what their responsibilities (at a moment's notice) as the Stake Leaders may not have a chance to orient them for up to a month due to scheduling.  I also provided training at Relief Society Presidency Meetings and answered questions using my digital media. The Church has tremendous materials for our use, and these young folks respond very well to it.  I have never received as many texts as much in my life as I have been by these good young folks.  Some of the texts were pretty funny as well.
• Be Flexible:  Things do not always go as planned.  Be ready to jump in at a moment's notice. This is not the time to be shy!  Give encouragement where it is needed as well as praise.  This is often the first real opportunity for some of these young folks to serve out from under the umbrella of their parents. There will be meetings as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late at 10:30 p.m. (please know these times are the exceptions).  But early and late do occur. The reason being is because this is when these good folks are available.  
• Take notes:  I am not kidding, not only will you need them, but others will as well.  I opened one note on my IPAD and took notes for Ward Council. I kept the same note and just added on to the top of it during each meeting. When someone had a question about something that happened previously, I had the answer!
• Take pictures!:  I am so glad I did this.  The reason being that after the first 2 years, our ward was dissolved to make way for the second MTC.  At the 'end of the semester' party, I had enough photos to make a video that included everyone and so many of the memories we had made together. Just know that we didn't have enough tissues at the end of the video.
• Be friendly!:  Remember how stressful it was to go to a new ward as a Young Single Adult?  Now times it by 170-200 people and you can get an idea of how tenuous it can be for these young people.  Extend your hand and introduce yourself...over and over again. Also ask for their patience as you learn their names.  I tried to use Mnemonic devices to associate something unique about each YSA to their name. I was not totally successful with everyone, but this memory technique took me a long way. It was easy for these YSA's to know who I was....as I was the token "Old Lady of the Ward".  I was traditionally the only 'mature Sister', in church on Sunday.
• Chances are that you will need to be ready to help serve at Stake Functions:  The Stake Leadership is full of wonderful people who are trying to do a whole lot for a tremendous number of people.  Even the best-laid plans need a little help.  I often dropped into the kitchen (with my apron!) and asked what they needed.  I was never turned away.
• Bring a pair of 'sensible shoes':  When you are cooking and serving in High Heels....it can take its toll on your feet and back.  I often had my 'dressy' Sketchers (which were flats) in my bag and would change into them while I was working in the Kitchen. When it came time to go to the Dinner or Chapel, I would change back into my High Heels and stash my Sketchers.
• Learn how to safely transport food:  This may seem simple, but it is so important.  In my case, (and also in the case of so many others), you are traveling to serve these tremendous YSA's.  I traveled 30 minutes each way.  I have learned how to pack a cooler, how to use a Hay Box to transport hot food and how to time things to be ready at the right time. It takes a little planning but has great rewards.
• Be ready to be a shoulder to lean on: Some of these young people are faced with oppressing challenges.  These have ranged from the death of a parent, loss of a sibling, loss of a scholarship, having to be relocated back to their country of origin, job loss, not being accepted into the program you were hoping to have as a major, and certainly broken-hearts.  Listening is such a needed service and has been something that I have had to consciously work on as well as to develop a deeper sense of patience. I have always needed more patience and probably still need more.  One thing is for certain, I have learned how to be more patient while serving in this calling.
• Be ready to be lifted:  When friends and family members have asked me what my experience is like, I cannot say enough positive things.  I have had the opportunity to be more 'fully utilized' in my service.  Often, in traditional wards, I have been serving through music (which is very honorable)  In this ward, I have had the opportunity to be a 'jacklyn-of-all-trades' and I love it.  If your experience is like mine, you are lifted and blessed each time you interact and serve with the beautiful young people.

So, to the members of the Young Single Adult Wards that we have had the opportunity to serve with, I want to offer my sincere and deep appreciation.  My life has been greatly blessed due to my association with all of you.  I have gained new friends and watched so many of go on to greater things.  It is my hope that I can watch you continue on your trajectory towards you goals in your personal and professional lives.  Thank you for being such a positive light for me personally.

"'Til me meet again"

Called to Serve....Lindon Cannery Missionary Request‏

A Request from the Lindon Cannery.  If you are in a position to help, please contact them as soon as possible.  What an opportunity!:

We are way behind in finding missionaries for 2013. If you are possibly interested in serving at the Cannery next year, please send an email to wel-ca-lindon-wetpack@ldschurch.org . Please include your stake name.

We are needing around 10 new missionaries. Lindon Cannery missionaries serve for 1 year (Jan-Dec) for 2 assigned, 4.5 hour shifts a week (between 8-10 hours/week). We will only be working on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in 2013 and do not schedule production for the month of July. When needing to be gone on an assigned day, there are several other missionaries who do the same job you do so you can get substitutes and will be asked to substitute if needed.

This is an immediate request. First day of training is December 10, 2012. (No other responsibilities in December.)  First day of production is January 8, 2013. We are down to the wire!!!

Looking forward to hearing from you! Remember to send to the email above.

It's a matter of repairing damaged surfaces for finished wood.

You have been there....sitting in the pews at church.  You look down, and see the nicks and scratches on the legs or edges of these beautiful wooden benches.  

As many of you know by now, Rooster Senior and I serve in a Young Single Adult Ward.  Many of these YSA wards meet in buildings with double chapels. You would think that these buildings would avoid many of the sad realities of damage that comes with little ones navigating about in the building. However, it just isn't the truth.  

As a service project yesterday, Rooster Senior taught a number of our YSA brothers and sisters how to repair these surfaces so that their beauty shines forth again.  Here is one of the strategies.

This is the same pew as above, but a little bit of gel-stain has been brushed on the nick and it virtually disappeared.  Brush with the grain and wipe of any excess with a dry cloth.  

What to see the magic again?

At first, I though the wood had just split...but to my husband's trained eye, he knew it was damage from a pen or stylus.  The grooves were rather deep.

Here, I applied the gel-stain (that had been matched to this wood beforehand)

Here is the after picture.  Isn't it amazing?

After a Regional Conference today, we received this nice note from the High Counselor who cares for the buildings:

Thank you (Rooster Senior), and the 153rd ward, for the beautiful stain touch-up work in our building!  We have a fresh new look today for the conference, and for the coming dedication next week.  You have set a high standard for the other cleaning that will take place in our building over the coming week.

We will be "attending" the dedication of the Brigham City Temple ....virtually.  Our Chapel will be a type of 'extension' of the Temple next Sunday, and it will take a Temple Recommend to enter the building.

Our YSA's were not only serving the Lord, but they have gained a few new skills that they will be in a position to use on the furniture in their own homes both now and in the future.  

Learning new skills is great,  isn't it?

Pay It Forward to our Brave Fire Fighters.....

Helicopters fly to and from the Quail Fire in Alpine

We have heard the helicopters fly back and forth all night.  It has become an appreciated sound in light of this fire.  Earlier today, the mountain was shrouded with clouds and rain ensued.  It cooled things off considerably, but hampered the effort from the planes and helicopters due to the weather.  Reportedly, this is a mixed blessing because it helps to cool off the overall area and provided needed moisture, but it also makes the ground slippery and muddy which hampers the ground effort.

I saw a news story on a local television station talking about folks donating drinks and food to the fire department in another area.  I love the spirit of volunteerism in our state....it runs rampant...as it should.

So, Rooster Senior and I made a trip to the big box store.  We took our purchase to the Highland Fire Station.  The machinery had just been cleaned and the Firefighters were trying to relax inside.  As we spoke with them for a moment, one of the Firefighters told of his first encounter with the fire.  

This brave Firefighter stated that he lives in Alpine and reportedly got a call from his wife about the fire.  He reportedly drove directly to the site and began the "Urban defense" which is to protect homes etc.  He said he saw the fire when it was relatively small.  He then became focused for about 10 minutes on needed tasks, and then looked up again.  He said in that short time the fire had spread to the bottom fourth of hill/mountain and was advancing alarming fast.  He said the fire was 'scary' and dangerous.  

I learned that the local Fire Department works with Federal Governmental Firefighters, but have different roles.  The 'Feds' protect the land and the forest, so they are in the trenches of this fire now.  As of 6 hours ago, the fire was 10% contained.  The local Fire Department is responsible to protect homes and structures.

I have addressed some of the areas that we have found to be lacking in our own family preparations.  I still have things I am thinking I want to consider.  Officials have evacuated up to 350 homes, but have allowed a number of families to return.  I am hopeful that if I had 15 minutes to evacuate like many of these families did, that I would have been ready.

Please don't forget the brave Firefighters and their support teams that are addressing this and the other terrible fires in the west.  It is a needed, but dangerous profession and we need to find ways to show out support....even if it is just a card of thanks or a few snacks showing them that they are appreciated.  Consider doing something as a family to show your support and appreciation, no matter where you live. 

On Behalf of a Grateful Nation

Today is July the 4th.  A day that is often filled with family gatherings, food, parades, and reflection.  This year is no different.

Although there will be no fireworks this year due to the extreme fire danger, there will be gatherings. But, in the case of veteran families, someone will be missing at the dinner table.  Someone who has served our country and laid their life on the line for yours....someone who served in the Military.

Recently, a family member passed away unexpectedly.  This family member came to us through the marriage between my son and his wife.  We knew of this   man's genius in software development, his kind and quiet side consistently providing service to others without fanfare, and his love for his sweet family.  However, it wasn't until his passing that I learned that he had also served 2 tours  in Vietnam.  I was sad that I did not know this until he had passed away.

At the grave site, the Honor Guard was present.  I was deeply touched by the deep tradition of reverence, and respect paid to this veteran.  In researching this tradition, I found the Following from the Department of Defense:

What can the family of an eligible veteran expect? The core elements of the funeral honors ceremony, which will be conducted are:
- Flag folding
- Flag presentation
- Playing of Taps

The veteran’s parent Service representative will present the flag. 

A member of the Honor Guard related a verse that appeared to include the following words...

On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, or Air Force), and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service

The flag is folded 13 times, and each fold has a meaning:

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life. 

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. 

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." 

The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 

The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of ourRepublic. 

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. 

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. 

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. 

When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust." After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

We do live in a nation founded in Christian Beliefs.....as noted in the meaning of the folding of the flag.

On this Fourth of July, please reflect on the sacrifice and service of our men and women in the Military.  They deserve our respect and action.  It is an election year.....it is our right and responsibility to elect those who will protect our nation just as these brave individuals do.  

Read, reflect, become informed, thank a service member....and Act!