12/06/2024
The Barbara Passmore Center at Snake Nation Press on West Force Street sustained roof damage and shingle loss plus we had several large trees fall on the property during Hurricane Helene. We have no cable and have relied on mobile hotspots when we require a PC. We are meeting with the structural engineer representing our insurer tomorrow. Since we are a 501(c)3 we qualify and are applying for assistance from FEMA.
The midtown neighborhood, (Brookwood to Gordon and the Williams corridor to N. Oak) where our Center is located, is still in shambles, there are around 30 houses severely damaged by large trees falling on them, this includes the old radio building owned by VSU. The large tract just south of campus that an out of state company bought for a housing and retail development project, that was never realized, is a mess. The houses were abandoned, and the block, which even before the three hurricanes was bordering on being considered a residential "greyfield" - is now in abject blight.
The past five years through COVID to the multiple major hurricanes directly impacting Valdosta have required us to change our efforts at the "Snake House" from one of planned projects to recovery and restoration. Overall, the house sustained moderate damage to the roof, but the envelope of the 100 year-old house has not been compromised. Snake Nation Press has been at this location since 1989.
The idea that a hurricane is a short-lived event couldn't be further from the truth. The reality is that the effects are felt for months, maybe years. Cleanup is painfully slow throughout the city/region but the scope is incomprehensible unless you witness it from the ground. The restoration of our public infrastructure has been painstaking, power for some was out for weeks, there are still intersections without traffic lights, cable lines down, and debris on the roadsides. But enormous progress has been made and we thank the crews that are working here.
As we come back on-line we see the Passmore Center as a meeting place and clearing house for addressing the needs and the challenge ahead for this neighborhood at risk.
Some great man must've said.
"Out of adversity comes opportunity."
