AND WHEN THE RIVER RISES

The PORTAGE RIVER rises when spring warm the earth. When you drive 12 miles from home you see the river wind. People build dream houses to enjoy the humble view. They load in their top soil and fill the flood plain. Brilliant move for dry feet. But the neighbor is left to wonder where will it go this year. Your house is high and dry but mine's at risk I fear. The locals laugh as the wee town of Pemberville prepares with all their bags. They need a water LORAX, "I speak for the banks. Don't fill your land with soil. The river, it WILL RISE." Pack your things and head away. Insurance pays the bill. No need to toil this time the river will always spill.