As friends and family you are well aware of Mike's love for volunteering with the American Red Cross. Since 1991 Mike has contributed thousands of hours helping people prepare for, cope with and respond to emergencies. He truly exemplifies the spirit of giving.

Wednesday, March 7, 2007

Tropical Storm Alberto - DR 444

Another Hurricane Season Begins.

Alberto was the first storm of the 1994 Atlantic hurricane season. It hit Florida in July , causing a massive flooding disaster while stalling over Georgia and Alabama. Alberto caused $500 million in damage and 30 deaths. (Click on any of the pictures to see a larger image)

Mike was again called to drive the ERV, this time to Cordele, Georgia. It was only his third national disaster, but the High Point Enterprise referred to him as a veteran disaster relief volunteer. This time he was joined by a volunteer from the Charlotte Red Cross Chapter. Once arriving in Cordele, they were stationed at the National Guard Armory.


In the beginning, Mike was delivering food to checkpoints manned by National Guard or police. Mike recalls the checkpoints as small camps in the middle of nowhere. Two or Three tents would be set up to house the Guard or police who were protecting the evacuated neighborhoods. As the water receded, the ERV was able to get closer to the homes. The flooding in this area was different than the St. Louis floods. The homes affected were flooded by a nearby lake not a river. Mike remembers the people being very surprised that the Red Cross brought food to them. They didn't expect it. Having the food brought to them allowed them to stay in their home and saved them valuable time as they started the rebuilding process.

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