BENNINGTON, Vt. - Steeples across Bennington were ringing out Tuesday night, as the Governor of Vermont asked churches and government buildings throughout the state to sound their bells in recognition of the one-year anniversary of Tropical Storm Irene.
"I heard the news on Channel Ten tonight, realized it was the anniversary of the hurricane and all the people in New York that were devastated," said Steven Barber.
Barber lives across the street from Saint Francis Church. He said his family felt compelled to stand up and reflect as the bells chimed away.
"It's great, everyone wants to get together and realize the hardship it cost and move on with the future," said Barber.
A few blocks away, the Bennington Farmers market rang their own bell. The farming community said Irene brings back a lot of painful memories.
"It caused a lot of flooding, drown out the plants, caused the roots to rot, it was horrible," said Patrick Matula.
People say the one-year anniversary also provides some positive memories.
"People got together to help, and got everything up and going really quickly," said Pam Senecal.
Members of the Bennington community also said they hope the bell ringing becomes an annual tradition.
"I think it's a good idea to remember what happened and remember those who lost their lives and also remember the strength of Vermont pulling together and recovering," said John Primmer.
NEWS10 ABC
