Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Potter family faith still strong after home fire

Since the fire that burned Tommy and Stephanie Potters home and business to the ground in December, the Potters have relocated and are back in the business of cutting hair and also serving God.

Their business, Hair it Is, is currently in the living room of the Potters home on 202 S Front St.

Their mission, Faith Mission, is in its fifth year and still going  they havent missed a meeting since the fire and, according to Tommy, have never had a fund raiser.

After their loss and before Christmas, the Potters erected a sign that reads We Still Believe to show that lifes obstacles have not deterred their faith.

People knew the fire would make our faith stronger or breaks us, Tommy said, but our faith and love is stronger than its ever been.

Although the Potters did not have insurance to cover the loss of their home, Tommy said they have assurance that God will take care of them.

Tommy said it took a month to come to grips with the loss of their home, but appreciates the kindness shown by friends of the family.

Im overwhelmed by the love people have shown us, Tommy said.

The Potters bought the 19th century house at 202 S Front St. seven years ago and have been busy trying to remodel the inside and outside since the fire.

The house, Tommy said, was built in the 19th century  at the same time the old railroad hotel was built. One of the most expensive projects will be re-decking the roof, which still has the original shingles from the 1880s. That project alone, Tommy said, will cost between $8,000-$11,000.

So far, they have leveled the foundation with timbers, gotten a new sewer line and have purchased tools and materials to start on electrical, gas and water supply for the home. They have lumber for the porch and insulation for the house.

From the debris of the burned home, they have hauled away two tons of scrap metal and two tons of lumber from the house that burned.

As for the Faith Mission, Tommy and Stephanie both teach mens and womens classes, respectively, for alcoholics, drug addicts, victims of mental and physical abuse and anyone in pain from rejection.

There are a lot more people out there who just want to be loved, Tommy said.

Faith Mission meets every Friday, and a meal is served every Friday. There is no age limit, and Tommy said everyone is invited.

The mission networks with other churches and organizations in the area, including the Red River Baptist Association.

Donations for the Faith Mission can be taken to 123 S 2nd St. or to 202 S. Front St.