THE WORST FLOOD IN BROOME COUNTY HISTORY!

June 28, 2006

Last year we had flooding that we thought was bad then; now this has become the worst. With rain and thunderstorms on Tuesday June 27, 2006, Wednesday was a hassle with clean up and State of Emergencies in 9 counties. The Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers took out everything in their paths.

With Conklin being the worst hit area around here, many people were forced to leave their homes and pets behind with a 4 am morning wake up call. Grabbing just the essentials for now, they were shipped to various parts of the Twin Tiers where there are shelters set up; the biggest shelter being the Binghamton University Event Center where over 1,500 people came in to get some help. The National Guard helped move and transport many, many people in helicopters to the shelters around the area.

The water was big and powerful all over though. Even the Court Street flood wall wasn't strong enough to stand the power of the muddy water. Making the flood wall crack was a problem, but when it toppled over the top of the wall, then it was a bigger mess then expected. Crews did their best to make everything stay under control. Many roads were blocked off throughout Wednesday all the way into today and surely for a while until the rivers return to normal.

As the water rushes through Binghamton, Governor George Pataki made sure to stop and take a look. He made it clear in a press conference held at Commerce Park in Binghamton on Riverside Drive on Wednesday; he would do his best to get relief help money from FEMA. Assessing the damage in the Twin Tiers to be more than 100 million dollars, U.S. Senators Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer took time out to talk to the evacuees and listen to their stories on Friday June 30, 2006.

While others try to get their lives on track now again, a lot still have the damage. Many still are forced to stay out of their homes although they are being aloud to go in for a short while to retrieve valuables and animals, others are kayaking and canoeing around to see damage and many businesses are trying to clean out the damage that will in turn cost a lot of money to repair.

Debra Vincent says, “I am just one of the lucky ones. I didn't lose a home, just my car. Many people lost their cars and homes during this time, some were seen floating down the river and some were just unable to be seen at all. I honestly don't know where my car is right now. One minute is supposed to be getting tires and inspection at Vince's Garage in Conklin and the next minute, I don't know. It could be floating to the Chesapeake Bay by now,” Debra laughs. “I really don't know.” No one does because no one can get anywhere in Conklin. No one does know. Vince's Garage was just one of many businesses that were tore apart. And as things slowly return to normal and the rivers slowly recede, this of course isn't the last time we will see this much water. There will be other times.

THE JOURNAL OF A SOLDIERS WIFE

December 20, 2004

The last time I saw you, you were in blue. I remember it so well because it accented your eyes. The last time we talked, you said, “I love you” to me. I distinctly remember because I love you too. Now that we are apart, it’s hard to say what I want to, or exactly what is on my mind. Although I know you are coming home someday, I still find it hard to be by myself with the kids. The radio updated me on the circumstances. I guess I just don’t want to accept the fact that one of these days, your name might be read on the “Killed In Action” list. What would I tell the kids?

December 21, 2004

Days have been long. I can barely sleep at night thinking about what tomorrow may or may not bring. I don’t want any UNWANTED news to disturb my peace. I just want you to show up at the door. I want to see your face, touch your hand, and kiss your lips… anything and everything I haven’t been able to do since you have been gone. Doesn’t the president know I need you here with me? If he does, then why doesn’t he send you back?

December 22, 2004

I received a letter from you today. I was so happy to hear from you. The neighbor girl advised me not to look in the envelope too much… because I probably wouldn’t find you in the bottom of it.

December 23, 2004

The kids wrote their letters to Santa today. They were nothing like I was expecting. Marianna wrote:

“Dear Santa,

This year, I don’t want toys. I don’t want candy canes, caramel popcorn, or even that puppy I have been asking for. I don’t want you to give me anything fancy. Forget the Barbie’s, and the Easy Bake Ovens. Can you simply wrap my daddy up and him under the tree? I think he may be overseas. [Mommy says he is.] I don’t have the directions, but I am sure you know how to find him. I trust you and I know you can do it. And I will give you money for gas for the sleigh… or grain for the reindeer so they have enough energy… but the long drive and ride is worth this present. I promise. It would mean the world to me.

Thank You,

Marianna”

David wrote:

“Dear Santa,

I miss my daddy. He hasn’t seen my new shoes. I got the ones with the air pump in the flap so that I can shot the hoops like Michael Jordan does. Can you bring him to me… he needs to be here for Christmas… you understand.

Thank You,

David”

I know that what they wrote is really simple, but it touched my heart and made me cry. I know Santa cannot bring you here. Obviously. But I do hope he can maybe bring a letter with good news.

December 24, 2004

Here it is, two letters for the kids they’re even address from Santa. But I know your handwriting. I know they are from you dear. I know it is cause you sent one to me too for a personal Christmas gift. I put the letters under the tree for the kids. Marianna and David keep looking at them envelopes waiting for Christmas to strike. I heard David ask her if you were in one… she snapped at him and said, “THE ENVELOPES ARE TOO SMALL!” I want them to open them as much as they do.

December 25, 2004

It’s 6:00am. I can’t sleep. I can’t stand being away from you. ESPECIALLY on Christmas day. I am watching the news now… the Iraqi war seems to have no end in sight.

The kids woke up at 7:00am. They hurried straight to the tree and grabbed their letters. I watched as they carefully read each word precisely, making sure not to miss one thing. They perked up when they were finished. David even said, “These aren’t from Santa… they are from daddy.”

December 26, 2004

It is exactly 12:13am. I just read your letter. It was beautiful. I wanted to wait until the grandfather clock struck midnight so I could read it on our anniversary. Ohhh- every word was so beautiful. I have never in my life wanted you with me more than I do at this exact moment in time. I keep your wedding band close to my hear on the chain around my neck. I can’t stop grasping it when I feel I am missing you.

Ps. Your letter to me…

“My Dearest Julie:

MERRY CHRISTMAS! But more importantly HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! What I wouldn’t give to be with you… brushing the hair from your face each morning, and watching you fall asleep each night.

What I wouldn’t give to kiss you, hold you and never let go.

I have done nothing but anticipate a notice from my captain saying I can go home. Finally one arrived today. I am flying out of here on New Year’s Day. So save me that New Year’s kiss!

See you soon pumpkin. I will be counting every second until I am with my kids, my wife and the place I belong again. I love you more than a billion shinning stars in the sky.

~Erick

December 27, 2004

I informed Marianna and a David of you coming home. She insisted she be the one to tell David. She woke him up at 8:00am to “deliver the news.” That’s what she told me. Remember the life-size doll of Marianna’s? She put a picture of your face on it and a big banner saying:

“I’M ON MY WAY HOME SPORT!”

She put it in David’s room next to his new shoes. David screamed when he saw it. I could tell he was much more than excited. We all are.

December 28, 2004

The phones have been tied up all day here. With Marianna and David wanting to call the whole nation to let them know you are coming home, the house phone has been assigned to David and Marianna has use of my cell. (those are going to be two large bills- but they are worth every penny.)

December 29, 2004

I just got today’s mail. I had to drive to the post office to get it. There was a sack of 100 letters for us. FROM ALL OVER! The kids called everyone and anyone. They even called the news. They are coming here to interview the kids to get a reaction. I put all the cards and letters in the guest room that has gradually turned itself into “Erick’s War Memorial Room” since you have left.

Lord have mercy! My Erick baby is coming home to me!

December 30, 2004

I cleaned up the house today. Made it nice for you to come home to. I cried all day. I guess it is just the anxiety of seeing you. I cannot even express the anticipation my heart is going through.

December 31, 2004

Marianna and David went to bed early. They said, “Time goes by faster if we are sleeping. Daddy will be here faster then.”

January 1, 2005

I heard the news at half past two this morning. Channel 12 covered the scene of the accident. I was so devastated when they said there were no survivors. I am so unsure of what to tell the kids. How are they going to take it? What are they going to say? How do I tell them without breaking their little hearts that the Iraqi’s shot down the plane their father was on? How do I tell them in so many words?

Its 5pm now. I told them earlier. I haven’t seen them since. They have been crying in their rooms all day and into the night. Neither wants dinner and had no lunch. I made them sandwiches and a glass of milk and left it by their doors. I just don’t know what to do. I think I will go to bed early and think. I love you so much Erick.

January 2, 2005 Erick’s Entry

It’s 7am. This might be awkward. I came home today. I wasn’t on the plane that was shot down. They moved me before take off and that’s when it happened. I saw it all too. It was crazy. The sight still moves in my mind. But I thank God and my lucky stars that I lived. I had a change in my life within a second. And I am home now. I think I will go and wake up my darling wife and my little princess and price. Let them know I am ok.

Julie’s Entry

What a day… he came home. There was someone watching over him. And I knew he’d be back. And now that he is, I am not going to let him leave again.

Floods Rage Through the Twin Tiers

July 26, 2005

Devouring anything in its path, the water continued to rise without any sight of stopping. With damage all over, Conklin and Kirkwood (shown in the pictures) were not the only ones that saw continous pools of dirty water in their backyards. Literally. And with the rain continuing to fall, the water has nowhere else to go.

The flooding continued to make its rounds around the Southern Tier, with outrageous water levels tearing up houses and flooding out the Union Endicott football field. In which had to cancel games and post pone them to other dates.

Water trucks attempted to suck up some of the water, but that didn't help with more water pouring in from the rivers and streams nearby.

Driving to or home from work was also a hassle due to the flooding. Roadways and even driveways were swimming with the fishes. Local authorities had blocked over many roads including Main Street in Kirkwood, and Conklin Ave in Conklin. Detours were in the process of being made, while traffic backed itself up.

Police ensured that driving should be back up and normal by Sunday, but until then, driving should be kept to a minimal. Only necessary driving and emergencies are to be taken into consideration. And when driving, Police say that you should be careful and keep an eye on the road at all times.

As for most of the homes that eaten alive by the raging waters, people still have to evacuate to a safe and secure place until the water is complete out.

Thousands of people were left homeless and hurting after theses waters tore a path through their homes. Red Cross helped out by making disaster centers around Upstate New York, and asked for the citizens to help donate time if possible.

However, the Twin Tiers were not alone in flooding. The whole East Coast had seen signs of flooding from the hurricanes. And forecasters say there is more rain on its way.

As for locals, people are coping with the dilemma and say its not the first time and may not be the last.

Commence the WET DOWN

5 MP Firefighters Gather Together To Celebrate New Trucks

July 9, 2005

Imagine hearing the ear stinging sound of the firehouse alarm, scanners going off, throwing on your protective fire wear, racing down the streets and going into burning buildings, or pulling people from dangerous areas just to save their lives. Imagine risking your whole life just to save someone else. Every day, volunteers are serving our community just to serve and protect us. However, both the Five Mile Point and the Kirkwood Fire Company need more volunteers every day.

On July 9, 2005, Five Mile Point firemen gathered at Kirkwood Valley Park for a "Wet Down." This is to welcome in the two new trucks they have just received. (Engine 3 and Tanker 7.)

I personally had the pleasure of meeting with only 12 of the 35 men that volunteer at Five Mile Point. Including: Chief- Steve Fazio serving 2 yrs, First Assistant Chief- Mike Kuruc serving 2 yrs, Lieutenant- Mark Gialanella serving 2 yrs, Captain- Jarrad Maciak serving 4 yrs, Captain- David Abell serving 2yrs, Anthony Kilgallon, Jason Mollo, Mark Dougherty, Michael Retzlaff, Jim Snyder, Jim Potter who has been in the company the longest 28 yrs, and the youngest of the bunch Brett Hunsinger who is only 16 yrs old.

Each station has its own trucks. Ones shown at the "Wet Down" were Brush 1, Engine/Rescue 2, Engine 5, Tower 8, and the Jet Ski. The Tower reaches over 100 ft in the air which is equivalent to 10 stories. I was able to be lifted up in the tower so that I could see what it was like. With the company of Jarrad Maciak, I was lifted 100 ft in the air to catch a glimpse of Binghamton and Kirkwood.

When asked what the most calls were that were received, no one hesitated to say, "MVA. Motor Vehicle Accidents tend to be the most calls we get." Of course I suppose that would be right when Five Mile Point covers I 81, I 17 and the Northern part of Kirkwood.

Of course, these heroes of everyday gave me a little insight to just the limits that they go to make sure that the victims of a fire or an accident are clearly helped.

Upcoming events where you can meet the firefighters are as follows: Friday, August 12th at 7pm and 13th at 6pm at the Kirkwood Town FAIR for a Car Extrication Demo with 'Jaws of Life', Saturday, August 13th at 11am at the Kirkwood Parade and every 2nd Saturday of every summer month at the Kirkwood Fire Company Station 1 for a Chicken BBQ.

Local DJ Spices Up the Joe Nichols Concert

December 10, 2004

WHWK surprised the crowd when their very own Glenn Pitcher got on stage as an "opening act" to the Joe Nichols concert at the Magic City Music Hall on December 10, 2004. As if he wasn't enough of entertainment himself without being... awkward, he added to the joker routine.

Wearing nothing but a Washington Redskins cheerleading outfit, he got up on stage and showed off his legs. Did he shave? We sure hope so.

Also making an appearance on stage was his new born daughter Tara who was born on November 3, 2004. Her and her father Glenn share the same birthday, hopefully not the same personality.

Glenn has no fear when it comes to being on stage before concerts. If we can all remember back to Spiedie Fest 2004, when Glenn started to sing "The Booty Song" on stage before Sherrie Austin made her appearance. In which case he not only sang, but showed us his booty as well. As for his profile on www.981whwk.com, he is open about many things. One question asked, "Best on air moment?" To which he replied, "Beating an 11-year-old in a pogo stick contest. (yeah, I'm pathetic.)" Well, just for the record, this 11-year-old is now almost 20, and willing to take the challenge again. I have NO doubt I will win this time!

This just goes to show, there is a reason he is on the air for RADIO and not TV.

Going to College

October 19, 2004

High school is “A place of primary instruction; an establishment for the instruction of children; as, a primary school; a common school; a grammar school.” (www.dictionary.com) In my high school days, I remember ninth through eleventh grade I always hated school and really couldn’t wait to get out. However, in twelfth grade I realized that my high school days were soon going to be done and over with. Surprisingly enough, I was upset about that. It occurred to me that I wouldn’t see all my friends as much, I wouldn’t have my own locker, and I wouldn’t have to ride a school bus. I actually miss some of these things now. I found it weird how my how outlook on school changed and I had actually thought about how I would be missing high school. In high school I attempted many jobs and volunteer work. My first job was being a hostess at Denny’s. I was there for three years, and then I moved on the being a waitress at Ponderosa. That lasted a couple months. From there I worked at NCI. That was a job I hated with a passion. I volunteered at many places too, such as General Hospital, the MDA, the Red Cross, Windsor Baptist Church and the Harpursville High School guidance office.

Growing up, I always wanted to do what my mom was doing. She worked at Kmart, I wanted to… and when she worked at Lupo’s… I wanted to. In seventh grade I found my passion for writing with the help of two English teachers, Ms. Mikoda and Mr. LeStrange. I have been writing poems and short stories ever since and I absolutely love it. Since I began writing, I have had three poems published in a worldwide poetry book, three editor’s choice awards given to me, two poems publish on an audio poetry book soundtrack, and I am currently working on my own poetry book entitled “Loves Me… Loves Me Not.” So, when I found my passion, I decided that I wanted to do that “when I grew up.” My dad is currently a journalist for his local newspaper in North Carolina and has been a journalist since before I was born. Growing up around newspaper writing, I can to the conclusion that I wanted nothing to do with being a newspaper journalist. Instead, I wanted to be a magazine writer. My main goal is to end up in New York City writing for a big magazine like CosmoGirl.

My father is the only person who went to college and graduated. He attended Oklahoma State, where he took courses to be a firefighter. My mom never went to college because the price was too costly for my grandparents at the time. My adopted sister Shannon, started at Purdue University in Indiana to be a veterinarian, but then dropped out. My half sister Christie started at BCC for nursing and still has not graduated from a high college. My closest cousin Ryan went to Albany University then ended up dropping out. Therefore, my real goal in life is to at least graduate from BCC let alone any other college.

To me, college is a privilege. Not a lot of people go to college, and some are unable to attend due to financial issues. That is why I believe those of us that can go to college and have that “luxury” should take full advantage of it. And I believe that the smartest way to a college degree is to start at a local college such as BCC, then transfer to a bigger one later. One thing my cousin Ryan said is, “I wish I went to BCC first. Maybe then I would have been more prepared for Albany.”

College is “An undergraduate division or school of a university offering courses and granting degrees in a particular field,” (www.dictionary.com) College for me is on a completely different level than high school. College is so much more independent where pass and fail is the choice of the student. High school was dependent. We all depend on our parents to be involved and our teachers to update us if we are failing or if we have missed anything. With college being so much more costly, it all helps build responsibility. And I believe that responsibility in college builds to have more responsibility outside in the “real world.”

J.I. JOE’S PLAY BALL

J

ohnny just closed his eyes. His mind went blank. Yet, he sensed that feeling he did when he was younger. He was so confused with it all. However, he sat on his bed every night trying to remember. Remember those times… the ones with his father. The more he tried to remember, the less reality came, and the more fantasies arose with hints of imagination. His mother was seldom help. She was hallucinating horribly. She made up stories more often than Johnny, which just frustrated him more. He was determined. Determined to be taken from a 35 year old and back to his childhood. Back to when he was 6.

29 years earlier…

“Daddy… Daddy… come play.” Johnny’s voice stung his father’s ears as he came into the house at noon. “There is a war daddy.”

“A war son?” His father looked tired most often, but pretended not to be when Johnny wanted to play.

“Yes a war. And the cap… he just called for the J.I. Joes.” Johnny held his wooden gun on his shoulder and pointed to the woods when he talked of war.

“It’s G.I. Joes.” His father always corrected him.

“That’s what I said Daddy. We are the J.I. Joes.” Johnny never got the concept that he was wrong with what he was saying.

“Okay boy, whatever you say. So where do we have to go?”

“To the woods. The wind will led us…” Johnny’s eyes widened… his pupils blackened, and his lips turned into a grin.

“The wind will let us what?” His father knew what Johnny was talking about, but waited for Johnny to correct himself.

“Not let… it’ll led… le… Take us there, you know what I mean!” Johnny swung open the screen door and yelled, “C’mon Dad. Their a waitin’. We don’t have much time.”

Grabbing his coat and bb gun, Johnny’s father traipsed after him. “Soldiers stand tall Johnny. Your slouched. Straighten your back son.”

“Like this?” Johnny’s back curved up fast, his hand raised to his forehead in salute, as his tiny legs marched.

“Pretty good lad, pretty good.”

They made it to the woods. “East to the sea, West to the war. Right daddy?”

“That’s right.” Johnny’s granddad used to say that all the time.

Suddenly, Johnny slammed his body to the ground. “DOWN DAD! THEY’RE SHOOTIN’! BANG, BANG!” Johnny raised his gun to his eye and randomly shot at the sun rays. With no hesitation Johnny flew into the leaves and hid. His father followed like he was told.

“Did you hear ’em shootin’ dad?” Johnny whispered in a quiet mumbling voice.

“Yes son.”

“They think they got us… but we’re not dead. Us J.I. Joes live on.” Johnny peeked us head up and looked around. “Ah-ha… they’re gone. They left us ‘lone. They probably got scared of my gun and ran.”

“Probably Johnny.” His father grinned.

“That’s Captain J.I. Johnny to you. I am the new boss.” Johnny and his father headed home.

“Well Cap, you sure fought a pretty good war. Thanks for saving my life.”

29 years later…

“That would have been fun. Normal. Exciting.” Johnny continued with the adjectives. He held his mothers hand. She was laughing.

“I remember that!.” She proclaimed.

“But it didn’t happen mom. Its not real. It was just a story. Imagination got to me. Dad and I never did that.” He knew her condition was what made her think it happened. He thought some more and his brain began to hurt.

27 years earlier…

“Kenny Rogers…” Johnny said. “I want to play ball like the kid in the song.”

“What are you taking about son?”

“And the ball goes up in the moon so bright, he swings his bat with all his might. And the worlds as still as still can be, and the baseball falls, and that’s strike three…” Johnny sang.

“You want to strike out?” Johnny’s father asked.

“No. He finds out he is a good pitcher dad.” Johnny stood in the hall with his ball and mitt. “C’mon dad, let me show you.” Johnny and his father went out to the backyard. Johnny ran across the grass to the other side near the creek. “Okay dad, get ready to swing. Its gunna come fast.”

Johnny threw the ball, and it went rolling on the ground. “Hmmm… the ball must be heavy.” Johnny attempted again. “Maybe it just needs a push… up…” He threw with all his might, and on the ground it rolled. “Nope, it definitely is a heavy ball. It won’t fly.”

“Maybe you should try swinging and I will pitch son.” His father suggested.

“I…I… I don’t know dad… it could get dangerous when I have the bat.” He opened his eyes wide and looked at the bat. “I guess I could… try.”

“There’s a good lad. You try your best.” His father laughed and grinned. “You go over there now. Stand your ground and make sure to keep your eye on the ball.” His father picked up the ball and threw. It went past Johnny and onto the driveway. He ran over to Johnny and asked, “why didn’t you swing?”

“Did you not hear what you said dad? You said, and I quote, ’KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL.’ Well I did, and I am still figuring out how you got it to stay in the air.”

“Yes. Watch the ball, but swing too.” His father shook his head as he looked towards the screen door. Johnny’s mother stood there watching and laughing.

Johnny swung around and waved as he yelled, “I’m doing good mom. I‘ll be a pro in no time. Go call the Yankees and tell them on am on my way.”

“Okay son… now keep your eye on the ball… AND SWING!” The ball flew, curved up towards the sky and then came flying towards the bat. Johnny lifted the bat, pulled back and swung. The bat went flying through the air as Johnny ran to first base, and the ball hit the ground. His father ran to his side again and asked, “Why? Why did you throw the bat? You are a hitter not pitcher anymore.”

“You poor thing… you don’t watch enough baseball. When Jeter is up at bat, he swings, throws the bat and runs. I think we should be teaching you and not me.” Johnny rolled his eyes. “Mom, he really needs some lessons,” He yelled to the house as he pointed at his father.

“You know son… they hit the ball and run. Maybe we should try some other day.” His father and him walked to the house.

“Its always on dad… just watch baseball and you’ll catch on.” Johnny said as he shook his head.

27 years later…

“Yup, you always wanted to play pro baseball.” His mother cried now.

“I never like baseball mom. I never understood it. No one taught me to play.” Johnny closed his eyes. It was coming back. He was remembering the real story. He could see it and feel it. His eyes clinched, and his fingers curled…

29 years earlier…

“Daddy, daddy…” Johnny jumped up and down in front of his father. His dads hand pushed on his head to stand still.

“Stay down.” His father said.

“C’mon Johnny. Bed.” His mother called from the upstairs. “Its 9 o’clock.”

“But… daddy…”

“Go. Listen to your mother son.” His voice was rugged and his eyes drooped.

Johnny slowly climbed the stairs to his room. “Why does daddy get home late?”

“He has to work honey. Make money. So we can live.” She explained in small detail.

Johnny closed his eyes as she flipped the switch and the lights vanished. Hours later he awoke to the wind blowing outside and the thunder cracking. He cried, but no one heard him. Laying in his pajamas, he shook. With a big crack from the sky, he ran to his parents room. He hopped onto his fathers side of the bed and shook him with his tiny hands. “Wake up! Wake up! There are loud noises outside.”

“Its thunder. Go to sleep.” His father waved him away.

“No daddy, I can’t. I’m scared.” Johnny said in a crying voice.

“Ok… ok… I am up.” They walked down the creaky staircase, and went to the kitchen where the sliding glass door was drenched with rain. “Want to make popcorn and talk?”

“Really? We can eat at…” Johnny pointed to the clock.

“Three in the morning.” His father answered when he saw Johnny trying to figure it out.

“Tree in the morning.” Johnny replied.

“Yea we can.” His father made the popcorn, and they sat in front of the window.

“Why does the sky light up and make noises when it is raining?” Johnny asked softly.

Trying to figure out a way to explain it to the six-year-old, he said: “Well, in Heaven, the angels are bowling. And when they get a strike and knock down the pins, the lights go on and off to congratulate them.”

“Really? There is bowling in Heaven?” Johnny looked up and shoved another piece in his mouth.

“Yes son.” They both yawned. “Looks like you can sleep now. What do you say?”

“Ok. As long as they are having fun.” Johnny and his father crept up the stairs again.

“Good night son.”

“Good night daddy.” Johnny smiled.

29 years later…

“Bowling… pffft.” He shook his head. “That’s it. That’s the memory I have. No more. We never bonded.”

His mothers hand turned cold and her fingers slipped out of his. He looked at her and said… “I always had you mom. I had memories with you. Thank you for that.” Outside he heard the rain and the cracking of the thunder. With nothing, he went home.