Magic moments occur at Christmas. Our towns are lit like stars dropped out of the sky to welcome Santa. Numerous events make memories for our youngsters who still believe and those who are just now wondering about Santa and the elves. But, we all know it isn’t magic that makes Christmas come alive in a small town. The magic is the volunteers who labor to make the events a reality. It’s not always easy to make moments to remember, but look around you and you will see the results of hours of work to make our towns festive. Families are not forgotten as food donations expand to fill the needs of the less fortunate. Toy drives and shop with a cop makes sure no child is forgotten by Santa.
So when tragedy occurs during the Christmas season, it hits us hard. The fire that took three structures on Second Avenue, New Cumberland and threatened eight more, would have been way worse were it not for the quick action of our local fire departments and the number of fire departments from neighboring counties or states who responded. Lives were saved and firemen worked throughout the night to contain the fire and not have it spread to the houses in close proximity. As the fire hydrants could not continue to provide the needed water during the night tankers sent from other counties and states provided water.
As the news of the fire spread Megan of Sweet Rock opened up at 3:30 a.m. to serve coffee and hot chocolate to first responders. In the morning following the fire, crews from James White Construction were on the job tearing down what was left of the three houses. And, the texts and phone calls were numerous as residents sought ways to come to the aid of those who had lost their home.
Second Avenue had been home to Laurie (Rainey) Mehaffey her entire life. Her parents owned the house and when Laurie married Bob Mehaffey, they too lived their entire married life in the home. The house was destroyed and has been torn down. They say a house is made up of bricks and mortar, but memories reside in every corner. Those memories also reside in your heart and will continue to do so as homes are rebuilt.
Linda Grysko, who made her home in the apartment behind the vacant house faces the prospect of beginning again. She lost all her possessions along with her home. Friends are organizing fundraisers to help both Linda and the Mehaffey’s to get on their feet once again.
The fire at Christmas may have tinged the holiday with tragedy and sadness, but it has brought out the best in a season where taking care of others is paramount. Lend a hand. Make a donation. Reach out to express your condolences and ask how you can help. Most of all, remember those who have lost their homes in your prayers and say a prayer of thanks for our brave firemen who ran to the fire to save their neighbors.
