IRENE ANNIVERSARY | David Atkinson brings in the laundry from the porch of his Riford Brook Road home in Braintree, which was swept downstream two years ago by the raging flood waters of Tropical Storm Irene. With help from recovery funds and many friends, he was able to rebuild on his small lot right next to the flowing waters. "I love this brook," said Atkinson, adding, "it's my nemesis and my joy!" The State of Vermont marked Irene's anniversary with a ceremony in Rochester Wednesday night. (Herald / Bob Eddy)