"Our community has been hurt," says Piccolo, who then quickly adds, "But from the most devastating things, positive things can come. And it's been like a shot of adrenaline to see what people will do to help."

As one example, he cites the time his wife, Barbara, walked through a crowd prior to a benefit auction selling some simple beads on a white ribbon. A ribbon of hope, she called it. "She raised $7,000 in 1 1/2 hours," says Piccolo, amazement still in his voice. "And that money came out of empty pockets."

"I can't tell you the exact amount of what people have contributed," he says — partly this is because he doesn't want to disclose some confidences and partly because no one kept score — "but I can tell you it's an extraordinary amount. The effort to help is something you wouldn't believe if you didn't see it.

"The rain that fell from this storm did not fall on unfamiliar territory," Piccolo concludes. "We've weathered storms before and we will weather this one. Tragedy doesn't test the character as much as it shines on whether it needs improvement. I'm just grateful for the people who live in these two counties."

So that's the mayor's report. Now, if you'll excuse him, he's got work to do.

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Lee Benson's column runs Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Please send e-mail to benson@desnews.com and faxes to 801-237-2527.