I would like to recognize the hard work, generosity and community spirit of the farmers of the Eastern Panhandle during the Blizzards of 2010. We already know that these folks serve as the backbone of our communities “year-round” and continue to help preserve the values and traditions that we have all come to cherish . . . but few of us know that they were also true, unsung heroes during these recent snowstorms.

While 50 or 60 inches of snow is a lot for anyone to the deal with, it is particularly difficult if you happen to be in the business of feeding the rest of us. Not only did they have to keep the “pathways” open for their animals to get to food, shelter and water (difficult even in good weather), they also opened up countless miles of county secondary roads, farm lanes, driveways and subdivisions. For free!

The farmers of the panhandle offer help when they see a need and are the most generous people I have ever met. When I got a call asking if I knew someone that could plow a driveway (everyone was very busy), several farmers came to mind.

The next time you see a farmer, know that he (or she) has been working longer and harder than the rest of us (they really do love their jobs though) and will be doing so long after the rest of us have settled down in front of the TV to watch the most recent “reality show”.

Thanks folks!

Thomas W. Loy

Rippon