Little Falls: A community in every sense (Guest Editorial)

One of the many advantages of living in a small city, town, or village in upstate New York is the sense of community people feel.  Though we may define it differently, a sense of community to me is the feeling of comfort that comes with the recognition of a simple fact: there are people here who will help.

It is often a quiet undercurrent of support that goes unspoken right up until the time it is needed, and then it comes in waves.

That sense of community was on full display on Saturday in Little Falls, and it was equal parts fantastic, comforting, and remarkable.

Last November, a lifelong resident of Little Falls, Debbie Kuehnle, was diagnosed with

acute myeloid leukemia.  Four months later, her friends and family put together a benefit in order to help offset her significant medical costs.  Last Saturday, more than 1,300 people attended a benefit for her at the Elks Lodge in Little Falls.

When you consider that Little Falls has a population of less than 5,000, the fact that on a cold and blustery day 1,300 people made it a point to help one of their own may seem astonishing -- unless you live in Little Falls.

Those of us who live here recognize that the ranks of our city are filled with a remarkable number of people who volunteer their time, money, and energy to make a difference.  They don't do it for fanfare or adulation, but rather simply to help their neighbor.  It's a noble concept that is constantly on display in our wonderful city.

I can only imagine the amount of time spent by the team that made the benefit such a success.  From the tents with heaters, to the food, to the raffle prizes -- they did not miss a beat.  Their only motivation was wanting to help, to show support, and to lift up the spirits of their friend.

In the end they raised a staggering $40,000 for Deb and her family.  In addition to the financial support, they also provided something incredibly valuable to everyone who attended the benefit and witnessed first-hand the outpouring of support:  a gentle reminder that the community we live in is special.  People showed up because that's what they do here -- they help.

Down at City Hall we spend a lot of time talking about different ways to highlight Little Falls, and how to attract more people to move here.  Most of our attributes are easy to describe:  the great school system, museum, theatre, golf course, Vet's Park, Moss Island, art galleries, parks, hospital, restaurants, and access to the canal.

Even the way of life here is easy to articulate:  it’s a safe, walkable community that’s an ideal place to raise a family.

While all those amenities are helpful in promoting Little Falls, they don't adequately detail the best part:  the tremendous sense of community you feel here.

Thank you to those who put on the Debbie Kuehnle benefit, as well as those who supported it.  In a single event, you showcased the best thing about Little Falls:  its kind-hearted, compassionate people.