Lowes, KY —When the ice storm of 2009 struck in late January, more than 200 Post Offices across Kentucky were impacted, including the Lowes Post Office.
Although Postmaster Joann Bell and Postmaster Relief Becky Goin had no electricity for 19 days, no phone for 17 days and no Internet service for 23 days at their two-room office, they continued to deliver the mail.
Because of their efforts, postal officials will present Bell with a “Lightbulb Award” at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 17 for the incredible dedication she and Goin showed during the weeks following the storm.
“The Lowes Post Office did a great job providing service during the ice storm,” said Kentuckiana District Manager Chris Christenbury. “The dedication these two individuals showed certainly symbolizes the Kentucky spirit of going above and beyond for our customers and we wanted to recognize them for it.”
During the power outage, Bell would make daily trips to nearby Post Offices in Melber, Lovelaceville and Cunningham to download her Delivery Confirmation scanner. To assist with customers, she used a battery-operated adding machine, as well as an old fan scale for transactions.
“The only thing that saved us was an old-fashioned gas stove located in the middle of the office,” said Bell. No doubt the pecan pies, brought to the women by grateful customers, warmed their spirits as well.
Originally known as Lowes Crossroads, the Post Office opened for business in 1872. The community is named for Levi Lowe, who settled here in 1837.
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