I’ve often said that holidays can be disaster magnets. This year, snow, cold, winds, power outages, homeless people on the streets, accidents on freeways, the list goes on and on.
This holiday has already been a doozy just based on the size and scope of the emergency and disaster. Buffalo New York — yikes, maybe four feet of snow and the biggest storm on record. I know you guys are working at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Buffalo and many other areas of the United States.
Hats off to those who have already spent many hours at work and will continue to do so until the emergency is over. I expect you can’t even find a pizza place open to pick up lunch or dinner at.
It is a testament to our profession, just as our allied professions of fire and law enforcement, that we are present and ready to help when called upon to do so.
To all of you who had holiday leaves scheduled — thank you for canceling them and answering the call to respond. Maybe not everyone appreciates what you are doing and the level of your dedication — but I do!
Wishing you all the best in the days ahead and maybe New Year’s Day will be different. At home, football, good food, friends and relatives to celebrate.
Best wishes in 2023!
