Latest news with #floodrecovery
CBS News
14 hours ago
- General
- CBS News
Stormwater floods Macomb County animal shelter, sends agency scrambling to financially recover
A nonprofit animal shelter in Macomb County, Michigan, is struggling to recover from the cost of storm-related flooding at its shelter. "To say we are heartbroken is an understatement," A ReJoyceful Animal Rescue in Clinton Township related on social media about the circumstances. ReJoyceful focuses its efforts on cat and dog rescue situations, such as a cat that had significant injuries from another animal attack and stray dogs that were living outside amid the heat wave. The agency describes itself as a no-kill, foster-based organization, using short-term foster situations to help match animals to adoptive homes. On June 18, the building was flooded through at least two rounds of storms backed up a storm drain and that sent water rushing inside the shelter, ruining supplies, furniture and equipment. "We've worked so hard building up our shelter and making it comfortable for the animals we care for. In a matter of minutes, this was all destroyed," they said. In response to the disaster: Volunteers showed up to help push water out of the building. A flood recovery and restoration company was called to mitigate damage. The agency posted messages on social media for foster homes and foster-to-adopt homes, taking note of circumstances such as which pets should continue to stay together and which ones need to be the only animal in a home. Donations and ad hoc fundraisers, such as a T-shirt sal,e popped up to help the agency return to normal operations. Over $125,000 in donations have been raised. The community assistance is appreciated, as the insurance situation was not what they hoped for. The building itself is covered by the property owner's insurance; the agency is responsible for its own contents. The agency did have a renters' insurance policy, but ran into an exception on the policy that does not include certain water conditions. "Our insurance claim has been denied. There is nothing we can do," they explained. As of Thursday, the building is almost completely dried out, but there is still work and sanitizing to do. "We have contractors coming tomorrow to start on drywall, replace doors, replace trim, and to determine what more needs done. We are still in the process of sorting through what has been destroyed and needs to be dumped. The losses are immeasurable, we still don't have a number on how much this will actually cost us in the end as we're not even half way through sorting through the mess," the agency reported.
Fox News
17-06-2025
- Business
- Fox News
Helene-ravaged river town reopens for visitors: 'It felt like victory'
MARSHALL, NC – Nearly nine months have passed since Hurricane Helene made its way through Western North Carolina, washing out homes and businesses. In the small mountain town of Marshall, just 30 minutes north of Asheville, business owners are eager for visitors. The main town sits along the French Broad River, which rose nearly 25 feet during Helene's storms, calculated by the U.S. Geological Survey. The town reopened to visitors in May and each week more businesses are opening their doors. Some business owners still remember the layer of mud caked on the floor, covering their belongings like a blanket. "I had no words, I mean I was crying," says Connie Molland, co-founder of Flow Gallery. "To walk into this space and see what we had left was all toppled all over and covered in mud." Molland says before the storm she tried to gather as much of the handcrafted art as she could. The gallery lost about 30% of its artwork from Helene. The gallery was not the only business crushed under Helene's wrath. Zuma's Coffee owner, Joel Friedman, says he had to climb through his windows just to get inside his coffee shop. "All these windows busted out, all the contents went out with it. All the tables, chairs, the equipment. It was total destruction," he tells FOX. Friedman and Molland say volunteers from all over the country showed up on their doorstep. Wearing protective gear, carrying tools, and ready to work. "That's what was keeping us going during that time," says Molland, "people just showing up and feeling good about how they were helping us." Friedman has the same story, "soon as everybody could come downtown, they were here with shovels and wheelbarrows and they went to work." Flow Gallery opened at the end of March and it has been six weeks since Zuma's Coffee invited locals back in. "It felt like victory, there's just small victories every day leading up to the final, 'ahhh, we've made it,'" says Friedman. "It is back to where it was, or maybe even a little better." Several businesses are still rebuilding and getting ready to reopen their doors.
ABC News
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- ABC News
Shearers Shindig in Thargomindah brings outback community together after flood
Wool goes flying on stage at the Thargomindah Shearers Shindig as two people race to see who can shear a sheep the fastest. The atmosphere is electric, but behind the thrill of the challenge there's another factor drawing the outback Queensland community together. Two months ago the Thargomindah township, nearly 1,000 kilometres west of Brisbane, was almost entirely inundated by a record-breaking flood. Reminders of the disaster are everywhere — in the blue flood markers pasted around the arena, the drone photos scattered near the bar, and the stories exchanged over a beer. To resident Liz Riley, the weekend of festivities was just as important to the town's recovery as clearing away the debris. "It breaks that continuous monotony of cleaning mud, cleaning walls, looking at our insurances … it just gives you that break and that's what people need." Around 80 shearers travelled from across Australia and New Zealand to Thargomindah to compete in the quick shears with the lure of a $41,000 prize pool, one of the largest in the country for shearing. The event also hosted dachshund races, pig races, a colour run, and a flood debrief panel. Bullo Shire acting chief executive Tamie Warner said the flood panel was the first time many of the residents involved in the natural disaster had spoken about their experiences. "We worked together, did what we had to do and made it happen," she said. As mayor, John "Tractor" Ferguson handed out the cash prize for each category at the end of the night — several winners shook their heads and insisted the money be returned to the community recovery fund. Each time, a cheer went up through the crowd. The fastest time of the night was 25.52 seconds, taken out by New Zealander Hemi Power. In the women's event, Marites Woods was the quickest on the clippers, shearing her sheep in just 33.22 seconds. Though many residents are still living in caravans, the sight of more caravans rolling into town is a welcome one — it meant tourists. Bulloo Shire Council tourism coordinator Danielle Tuit said the visitors brought a much-needed boost to local businesses. "Our tourism industry would normally start on April 1, but that was the night the flood came through," she said. While the number of shindig attendees was down compared to previous years, those who came brought open wallets. Bruce and Noni Kerr were on a road trip to Sydney and stopped in Thargomindah when they heard about the event. Shearer Atareta Tekanawa-Semenoff was one of many New Zealand competitors who travelled for the quick shears competition. "I'm here because I love supporting local outback speed shears and I saw what happened with the flooding," she said. "Big ups to the community, what a way to come back."
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Chaves County program distributes over $140K in flood recovery aid
CHAVES COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) — A Roswell program is continuing to serve the community, even after floods devastated Chaves County late last year. Story continues below Investigation: Politicians sink $13M in closed New Mexico tourist attraction Space: LIST: 5 places to go stargazing in New Mexico News: Videos show man in dumpster getting dumped into waste truck in Albuquerque Trending: Albuquerque City Council votes down 'RENT' ordinance 'Casakids Family Resource Center' says they continue to deliver flood recovery services from the October floods, while also managing cases for the youth they serve. The program has distributed more than $140,000 in direct aid to Chaves County families and they do not plan on stopping anytime soon. 'Our community was in crisis and so you know some of those stats include that we've served 412 families,' said Family Resource Center Director Sarah Johnson. 'That's 586 children that have been impacted, 635 adults of those families of those adults served, 93 of those presented with disabilities.' Casa Kids is also launching a new mobile unit to better serve Chaves County. There will be an open house tomorrow at their facility on main street. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Flood damage estimated upward of $78 million, Delaney's office says
WESTERNPORT — Damages from floods that consumed southwestern Allegany County nearly three weeks ago are estimated upward of $78 million, U.S. Rep. April McClain Delaney's office said Friday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency since Wednesday has been assessing the area, although no decisions or timeline have been established for help. On Thursday, local and state emergency management officials updated the congresswoman on the extent of damage, ongoing response and recovery efforts. 'I'm committed to working in lockstep with the governor and our U.S. senators to help Mountain Maryland in their time of need,' McClain Delaney said. 'This will be a true bicameral effort to secure as much federal funding as possible,' she said. 'Our entire delegation must come together to lift up (the Allegany and Garrett county area) to ensure it has the resources and support it needs to recover, rebuild and thrive.' 'Ready to work' Aspects of the flood recovery were highlighted at the Allegany County Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday. 'We are still receiving federal support,' Commissioner Bill Atkinson said, adding that U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks was expected to tour the area Friday. 'The Small Business Administration disaster loan assistance is on site, for low-interest disaster loans for flood-effected homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses,' he said. Crews from Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup Crews from Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup work Friday inside the Westernport Town Building, above. At right, Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton unloads a shipment of five-gallon buckets donated by Menard's of Morgantown, West Virginia. County Attorney T. Lee Beeman said a draft lease agreement with Beitzel Resources in Grantsville was finalized. 'They've been kind enough to donate warehouse space to us,' he said, adding that the area will be used to store flood relief items. County Administrator Jason Bennett said post-flood work continues in Westernport. 'All of our crews are currently up there,' he said. Commissioner Creade Brodie said he was grateful for people and agencies who helped 'with the recent devastation of the flood' in Allegany County. 'It did a number to us,' he said, thanking 'all four mayors of the crick,' regarding leaders of the lower Georges Creek region. 'What really amazed a lot of people from Midland to Westernport was the citizens that jumped in and helped,' Brodie said. 'Everyone showed up ready to work and ready to help.' Commissioner President Dave Caporale said more help is wanted. 'If you can give funds, supplies or your time, these folks still need it,' he said. 'We've got a long way to go.' Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton was at the meeting to thank county officials and workers for their support as her town recovers. Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton Westernport Mayor Judy Hamilton unloads a shipment of five-gallon buckets donated by Menard's of Morgantown, West Virginia, on Friday, May 30, 2025. She talked of Caporale 'scraping up floors one night, helping our rescue squad.' Brodie 'has checked in with me ... several times,' Hamilton said. 'A lot of our homes are damaged, we're still digging out mud,' she said. 'But, you guys have been wonderful ... I truly appreciate everything that you guys have done.' Across the country Jonathan Dayton is president of the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association in Allegany and Garrett counties. He was raised in Westernport and is an active volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician. The town's Potomac Fire Company No. 2 on Main Street sustained roughly 2 feet of water in the flood, Dayton said. The department is working with its insurance company as it navigates needed repairs, including new interior walls. 'It's kind of a waiting game,' Dayton said, adding that financial donations are appreciated. 'Insurance doesn't cover everything.' After the May 13 flood, the fire company's demand in the community grew by roughly 80% and included rock slides, water in basements, downed trees and electrical emergencies, he said. 'We've seen a major increase in calls,' Dayton said. Meanwhile, 'the fire station is still operational,' he said. 'It's been a very busy two weeks (and there's) a lot of work that still needs to be done,' Dayton said. He thanked volunteer emergency responders and mutual aid from departments across the region, including in West Virginia and Pennsylvania for their help during the flood. Robert Pattison Jr. and Shane Fazenbaker Potomac Fire Co. No. 2 members, from left, Robert Pattison Jr. and Shane Fazenbaker wash one of the department's engines Friday at the Main Street station in Westernport omn Friday, May 30, 2025. Westernport's Potomac Fire Company No. 2 Chief Tim Dayton said proactive approaches, such as rebuilding with metal walls, are being explored. He hopes the fire station is renovated within a couple of months. Tim Dayton talked of his gratitude for folks, many who came from across the country to support the tiny town's recovery. 'The outpouring of the citizens and the people coming in to help ... is unbelievable,' he said. Next door, Tri-Towns EMS was also flooded. 'Tri-Towns EMS suffered severe damage to our building due to the recent flooding,' a GoFundMe page for the organization stated Friday. 'Our entire basement was submerged, and the damage extended throughout the first floor of our station.' Tri-Towns also lost 'several thousand dollars worth of vital medical supplies, as well as furniture, office equipment and essential materials critical to our day-to-day operations,' the page stated. 'Spirit of service' Frostburg State University this week opened its doors to Westernport Elementary School staff and students. The May 13 floodwaters reached the second floor of their school and required roughly 150 students and 50 adults to be evacuated by boat and a high-profile vehicle. Due to extensive damage from the flood, the elementary school will be closed for the remainder of the academic year. The school of 295 students and staff will utilize space on the FSU campus until June 6. 'In the wake of the devastating flood, Bobcat Nation was happy to offer our support to Westernport Elementary School,' FSU Interim President Darlene Brannigan Smith said via press release. 'I'm proud of our staff who stepped up to quickly formulate a plan to provide learning spaces in our Education and Health Science Center for these elementary students — and dare I say future Bobcats.' FSU's Children's Literature Centre, which is housed in the EHSC, will be used for office space and provide supplemental lessons and activities for the students. 'Coincidentally, this year's school partner in the Children's Literature Centre's Adopt-A-School Program is Westernport Elementary School,' the release stated. In addition to spaces in the EHSC, the Westernport group will have access to Frostburg's fields and gymnasiums for physical education and recess, and space will be reserved in FSU's Lane University Center for student meals. 'Breakfast and lunch are being provided courtesy of the university's new food vendor, Aladdin, who only just began their contract with FSU on May 23,' the release stated. 'So many departments across our campus should be commended for working together to make this a reality for these children,' Smith said. 'Thanks go out to staff in the EHSC and CLC, Aladdin, FSU campus police, our facilities and athletics departments, our Lane Center and university bookstore, printing services and academic and student affairs.' Westernport's teachers were on campus Tuesday for an orientation and welcome session in preparation for the students' Thursday arrival. Students were greeted by FSU staff as well as a surprise visit from Frostburg's mascot, Bob E. Cat. Westernport Elementary School students and Bob E. Cat Westernport Elementary School students are greeted by Frostburg State University's mascot, Bob E. Cat, on Thursday, May 29, 2025. 'We are truly excited to have our family back together, and with the help of FSU, this is possible,' Westernport Principal Derek Horne said via the release. 'Our hearts are warmed by their generosity.' According to the release, FSU student volunteers on the night of the flood provided bedding and hygiene kits for stranded victims. The FSU Department of Athletics provided access to campus laundry facilities for a Lonaconing nursing home that was without water for four days. 'The efforts of our students, faculty, staff and administrators demonstrate the true spirit of service and all that FSU stands for,' Smith said. 'We're just so glad that something positive was able to come out of this tragedy.' Ways to help Checks can be sent to Potomac Fire Company No. 2, PO Box 326, Westernport, MD 21562. A GoFundMe to support Potomac Fire Co. No. 2 and Tri-Towns EMS will close June 7. Tri-Towns EMS also has its own GoFundMe page. Tri-Towns is selling 'Stronger than the Storm' shirts to raise funds for its rebuilding efforts. A variety of styles are available and range in price from about $20 to $40. Learn more at The Western Maryland Strong Fund states it was created 'to provide a secure and reliable repository for contributions, ensuring support reaches individuals and families impacted by the flooding with flexible aid for evolving needs.' Learn more at
