With four years of successful flood recovery under its belt, SALT is surging ahead.
Schoharie Area Long Term recovery leaders and supporters observed the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Irene on Friday by celebrating accomplishments and pledging more.
The press conference was held on the steps of the Parrott House in Schoharie because, like the rest of the Valley, the historic inn is being rejuvenated.
"Like the Parrott House, we are resilient, too," said SALT Executive Director Sarah Goodrich, referring to new Parrott House owners Dean and Ruth Coughtry renovating the inn.
"We're all strong like this building, and we have renewed hope like this location," Ms. Goodrich added.
Hope and strength were central themes on Friday, as speaker after speaker recalled how far the Schoharie Valley has come, mostly thanks to SALT.
Often pausing to fight back tears, Assemblyman Pete Lopez, a Schoharie village resident, called the day bittersweet.
"None of us dreamed we'd be standing in front of our homes and seeing the contents of our lives displayed before us," Assemblyman Lopez said.
"I never thought I'd see the hutch I built for my mother in shop class splintered and covered in mud."
But, Assemblyman Lopez added, Valley residents set aside their grief to rebuild.
"We're thankful to SALT and all the people who helped," he said.
"Thank you for your love of this community. That's what carried us forward."
Other speakers--Schoharie Supervisor Gene Milone and Middleburgh Mayor Matthew Avitabile--pointed to the widespread effort by volunteers coordinated by SALT.
"This whole Valley is better than it was before," Mayor Avitabile said.
SALT figures show that 79 percent of properties damaged by Irene have fully recovered. Much of that is due to SALT, which has raised more than $1 million in cash and coordinated more than $17 million in volunteer services, Ms. Goodrich said.
But speakers also emphasized that recovery isn't complete.
"Let us persist in our efforts and continue the process of moving forward," said Schoharie Village Trustee Jay Balliett.
Moving forward is SALT's aim, too. Although the organization will continue recovery projects, it's also worked towards preparedness, Ms. Good rich said.
She spoke of a volunteer reception center, putting together readiness kits for families and having similar kits for kids this coming year. Also, Ms. Goodrich added, there will be training for response.
"We want to be ready for the next emergency," she said.
At the same time, SALT will target economic development, including turning the flood buyout properties into green space.
Also, Ms. Goodrich said, SALT will undertake a feasibility study for a Schoharie Creek Trail through the Valley.
"SALT continues to move towards full renewal," Ms. Goodrich said.
"We will persevere as we write our future together."