CATEGORY:MAJOR INCIDENT --------------------------- INSIDE GRENADA SUNDAY October 14,2007 ST. ANRREW’S: Heavy and prolonged rainfall on Thursday and Friday (Oct. 11 & 12) caused severe property damage and, quite predictable, numerous inconveniences for many families in various parts of the country. The Balthazar area, in the rural parish of St.Andrew, was one of the regions that was severely impacted by the unremitting precipitation. Not only did the river which runs through the area flow approximately six feet above the level of the Balthazar Bridge but it also overflowed its banks and invaded the homes of some of the residents living within close proximity. Many residents opined that it was the first time that they had seen the normally placid -flowing river in such a violent state. Some of the families living close to the river lost their clothes, mattresses, food supplies and other household paraphernalia as a result of the severe flooding. The level of the flood waters reached inside some of the homes, thoroughly soaking the flooring and then leaving behind a sludgy residue. Mrs. Delma Thomas, the NNP caretaker for that area, was one of the persons who was most visible in that neighborhood since Thursday October 11.The former school teacher made a tour of the area (even while the Balthazar River was raging) to offer emotional support to residents, survey the extent of the damage done to homes and property in the area, talk to the families that were affected and give her commitment to assist in whatever way she could. By the following day, Sister Thomas (as she is affectionately known my many) was able to speedily organize some form of assistance for the affected residents. She was able to personally distribute food supplies, bed sheets, clothes, blankets, mattresses, baskets, mops and other items to families who suffered great loss. Those who received assistance from Sister Thomas, as well as many of the other villagers, were extremely happy and impressed with this vibrant, dynamic and hard-working young lady. They commented appreciably on the fact that she was with them throughout their ordeal, giving them emotional support and subsequent to that, swiftly mobilizing help for those in the area who were gravely inconvenienced by the heavy downpours. One of the villagers was of the conviction that Sister Thomas is a person who naturally cares about people. He felt that her sociable nature, her kind, pleasant disposition and her desire to work along with people in order to get things done will make her an excellent representative for his district sometime in the future.