SALT Focuses on MLK Service, Chronicling Stories of Irene

Focused on Martin Luther King's example of dedicated service and chronicling the stories of the Schoharie Valley's devastated Creek communities following the events of Irene and Lee, Schoharie Area Long Term (SALT) Recovery, in conjunction with area organizations, hosted dozens of area students and local residents at their MLK Jr. Day of Service: Stories of Hurricane Irene event on Monday.

With morning and afternoon sessions devoted to teaching valley residents the art of interviewing and documenting the stories of flood victims, SALT was joined by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the New York Folklore Society in organizing the well attended event. Assemblyman Pete Lopez, Congressman Chris Gibson and local politicians were among the event's dignitaries.

Fulton resident Robert Kerley (left) and Schoharie Deputy Mayor Larry Caza learn how to interview

Stating that he was, "very proud of Schoharie County," Congressman Chris Gibson praised what he called the very appropriate linkage of the event to Martin Luther King Jr, who "inspired us toward service, dignity and respect." He would go on as guest speaker to motivate participants that we can all either take action in our communities, or let them remain stay the same.

Assemblyman Lopez briefly addressed the event's 60-70 participants during an hour long luncheon.

SALT Director Sarah Goodrich echoed Congressman Gibson's thoughts, emphasizing that, "You all have a story to share." She would  later add that everyone's perspective is important and that participants could make a difference by capturing the stories of the valley's hardships and sharing them with the world, bringing both comfort to flood victims and awareness to their still ongoing recovery efforts.

Congressman Gibson and Town of Schoharie Supervisor Gene Milone coordinate schedules