The Podunk River winds unhurried through South Windsor under big old oaks and maples, and in a wet nor'easter those same trees load up until the whole town is listening for cracks. Winter work starts as soon as the snow does: plowing driveways and parking areas, clearing walks, steps and entries, opening the packed ridge across the driveway mouth, and sanding or salting the ice that follows a thaw. Storm cleanup rides along with it — hauling off the limbs and brush that come down under the weight, so a cleared drive stays cleared. The trucks are out through the night and back again at first light for the second pass. It is unglamorous and it matters, which is a fine combination.