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Message: Here's a great article I found at www.northwestnavigator.com: -- Navy volunteers who assisted during the Lewis, Thurston, and Mason Counties December flooding recovery effort were among those recognized for their efforts at the Southwest Washington Fairgrounds, April 29. The event was organized by the Volunteer Center of Lewis, Mason, and Thurston Counties to let those who assisted know their help was appreciated by those they aided in their time of need, and gave some updates on the status of some of the continuing rehabilitation projects. Among those who volunteered were Sailors from Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island and their family members who participated in cleaning up the damage caused to Rainbow Falls State Park, Jan. 21, as part of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. “Volunteering gives me a warm feeling inside,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Al Martin, of NAS Whidbey Island Supply. “A feeling like I did help someone that was in need and no matter how much work I did for that someone, I know that they are happy I took the time to help them and give back to the community. The guest speaker for the event was the First Gentleman of Washington State, Mike Gregoire, representing his wife, Governor Christine Gregoire. “The governor sends her warmest greeting and best wishes to all of you who have gathered this evening, and we have the deepest admiration for your incredible work throughout Lewis, Mason, and Thurston Counties since that devastating first Monday in December,” said Gregoire. “Amid all the pain and suffering, something remarkable happened, which will touch Chris and I forever. It was an outpouring of compassion that amazed even the most experienced emergency workers. People around Washington donated time, money, and labor to storm-stricken families and all of you represent that compassion and special spirit of Washingtonians through your actions.” These participants were presented with 18 certificates of appreciation from the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. Four representatives from NAS Whidbey Island attended the center’s recognition event. “The two greatest gifts that I receive from volunteering my time are, one, the look in peoples’ faces that says thank you, that picture is worth a thousand words. And two, teaching the younger groups that it’s okay to give to those who are in need.” http://www.northwestnavigator.com/index.php/navigator/regionalnews/flood_relief_volunteers_recognized/
