To the Editor:

I was quite surprised when I recently heard comments regarding Congresswoman Nan Hayworth’s alleged “poor response” (the words I heard, not my words) to last year’s Hurricane Irene. I presume this may be a topic of conversation for two reasons. First, the anniversary of the hurricane is upon us (August 28), and, second, (and more probably the real reason) it is an election year.

Like most elected representatives, I was very much involved in dealing with Hurricane Irene before it hit, while it was happening, and during the extensive aftermath. I can say without reservation that Congresswoman Hayworth was every bit as much involved as I was. Her office was available to me 24/7 for discussions regarding federal funding for disaster relief, contact information, emergency numbers, etc. Within two days of the hurricane, Congresswoman Hayworth and her staff arranged for a “town hall” phone conference which included residents, elected officials, emergency personnel, FEMA representatives, and others. There were also follow up meetings. I was in direct contact with her office representatives during and after the storm. Members of her staff came to Putnam Valley and gave me updates about available federal resources for residents. Congresswoman Hayworth also voted for continuous funding so that we could move forward with our recovery efforts. Her efforts, coupled with FEMA’s work, and, of course, the incredible work of Putnam Valley’s own employees and emergency responders, helped our town’s recovery from the storm move as quickly as possible.

I can say without reservation that Congresswoman Hayworth and her staff were extremely helpful during this disaster.

Very truly yours,

Robert Tendy

Supervisor, Town of Putnam Valley