The recent eleven-hour power outage experience, at least for those of us on Second Avenue, New Cumberland, happened on a 94-degree Sunday afternoon. Groans could be heard coming from everywhere. However, an amazing happening ensued. People came out of the dark in more than one way. Kids dusted off their like new bikes, scooters and skateboards and came outside to play!!!!! Families were walking babies in strollers and waving and conversing with neighbors sitting on their porches. People were “caught” reading actual books in the remaining sunlight of the day. We saw young people knocking on their neighbor’s door making sure they were OK. The sun went down leaving us in darkness which was not a bad thing. Porch sitting was even more inviting as the “stars put on a show for free”. The complete darkness made star gazing wonderful. How many kids spent the evening sprawled out on blankets watching the stars or playing a game of “night tag”? Laughter could be heard from the streets and flashes from lights could be seen piercing the dark neighborhood. It was like a gift of a blast from the past of simpler times. Thanks Mon Power for completing a very dangerous job but thanks also for the memories created and those brought to mind.

Maureen Vulgamore Second Avenue resident since 1979!