To the Editor:

Amazing. I was finally able to come to Vermont this past weekend for the first time since Hurricane Irene. I attended all of the Floodstock Vermont venues and also the Rotary breakfast. The experience was truly amazing. I have been traveling up to Mount Snow for what will be my 25th year as a part-time coach at Mount Snow. It is a very special place for all of us “part-timers” for sure.

Although I viewed heart-wrenching devastation especially when I went exploring back roads to Brattleboro and back to Wilmington, the weekend left me feeling confident that we will survive, rebuild, and be stronger than ever. This is because of what I experienced over the weekend. The outpouring of generosity, love, and concern was truly amazing. I have never witnessed a natural disaster before and have not seen a community pull together like this. I am so proud to be a small part of it.

Leaving the valley yesterday I know it is a long road ahead for all but know from the “heart” of the valley that I saw firsthand that we will be OK.

Thanks to all who volunteered, performed, attended, and put these wonderful events together. The kids who performed at Adams Farm were beautiful and really moved many of us deeply. It was a special moment for sure. Keep it going up there. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. And the new slogan I saw says it all, “Wilmington - Where Amazing Happens.”

God bless.

Dean Jenard

West Hartford, CT