Dear Editor:
In the very cold, dark and early hours of the 7th of February we were awoken by the smoke alarms in our home in Beachburg…our house was on fire. We could barely breath in the toxic smoke but scrambled to call 911 and get our two Scottish Terriers and ourselves out of the house. We also had two cats but could not take the time to find them as breathing became very difficult in just those few short seconds we had to escape. Our cats perished in the fire.
Within minutes the Whitewater Volunteer Fire Department arrived as we took refuge with our neighbours Barry & Grace Steven. We watched as our firemen valiantly battled the blaze which lit-up the dark morning sky which could be seen from many miles away. Unfortunately, by time the fire was discovered it was well underway and our beautiful Georgian home was destroyed along with all our possessions.
After just a very short period of time and as the firemen were still battling the fire, townspeople of Beachburg began arriving at the Steven’s home to offer help. All forms of aid were made to help us contend with the situation such as clothing, food and financial donations. As the word spread donations streamed in from across Whitewater Region and in some cases from people we had never met. We were just overwhelmed by the kindness, caring and generosity of the people and organizations of our town and region. All of this brought to mind a statement made some years ago by the then Lt-Gov of Ontario, Colonel the Honourable Lincoln Alexander when he said, “If you want to get it right, go to small town Ontario.”
I would love to give the names of everyone who made donations and offered aid but I would need a whole page(s) to make up such a list. Lynda and I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone. The aid and donations received went far to help us contend with this unfortunate situation and get us re-stabilized. A special recognition goes out to our Township Fire Department units under the command and control of Chief Wayne Heubner. Only through their professionalism was the blaze prevented from spreading.
Now the rebuild begins.
Thank you Beachburg and all of Whitewater Region.
David and Lynda Willard, Beachburg
