This needs little intro and is a worthwhile read for all. A heartfelt message from our dear friend Dennis, on behalf of his community in Rockaway. The words are strong, sincere and emotive. Life’s too short to stand around. Make a difference.
I want to take a moment to thank you all for your support and contributions.
Last night I used the van we rented to transport prepared meals for hundreds of people to and from drop zones.
I teamed up with occupysandy and our van did a lot of good, they were very grateful.
I was proud to tell them exposure made it possible.
At 5am this morning I drove our agency contributions out to Rockaway.
It still looks like a war zone and the NorEaster is making things more difficult.
I saw my neighbor whose home was completely flooded. She looked tired and cold and I asked if she needed boots.
She said, yes, and I pulled from the van a pair of brand new Emus that fit her perfectly. She was deeply grateful and thanked you all.
Rockaway is New York on the ocean. It’s as special and diverse as New York City, it just has waves.
Surfers that aren’t local feel like they are in a movie as they ride the subway out with board in hand.
You go through the tunnels, up to the El, through neighborhoods and graveyards, past the graffiti, and out to the water.
It’s awesome and it’s also a mixed bag.
There are writers, photographers, engineers, yoga instructors, professionals who just need nature, and like most of NYC, there are some tough projects(state funded apartment towers).
I spent four days at home after the storm to make sure my house was safe and my neighbors got help.
It is a special fatigue. You’re cold, tired, and there is destruction as far as the eye can see.
There is no heat, potable water, or electricity.
There are helicopters whirring over-head, aircraft carriers off shore, and when night falls everyone is on edge.
Despite the fatigue people are working together to get through this safely and rebuild quickly.
With the money exposure so graciously donated I bought flashlights, hats, blankets, socks, an old NATO gas can, and body warmers.
The mechanic that was helping people with their cars loved the gas can and a man who takes care of his homebound mother was deeply grateful for the hats, blankets, and body warmers.
All of the supplies we gathered are deeply appreciated.
Tom,
Thank you very much for the time and support.
When you came in the film room on Monday you said, “Dennis, I want you to focus on Rockaway.”
I actually heard “Rockport”. It took me a second, I was so “get back to it, let’s keep moving”. I’m sure my face said differently.
I am lucky to have you as a boss and a friend.
Thank you very much for your patience and getting Kyoko and the rest of the team to help me do something.
James, Raoul, Tim, and Will,
Thank you for your support from afar.
You all made it possible for me to go back and help out after I told my neighbors, good bye for now.
Thank you all for the donations and the warm welcome back.
Sincerely,
Dennis
Dennis DeVries
