Prior to March 2025, our town had built meaningful momentum over several years. There was a growing sense of progress and optimism about where we were headed. Then we were hit by an EF3 tornado.

What makes our town special is not just that we endured the storm, but how we responded to it. Our momentum and the resilient spirit of our people did not falter. In the face of disruption, neighbors showed up, supported one another and stayed focused on moving forward.

Today, we are stronger than ever and firmly on the road to an even better future. The experience did not define us — it strengthened us.

For a rural community of fewer than 2,000 people, there is an impressive level of engagement and initiative.

We have a renewed Chamber of Commerce, are one of our state’s newest “Main Street” communities and continue to support a strong Senior Citizens program. Each of these efforts reflects neighbors working together to strengthen our economy, preserve our downtown and support residents at every stage of life.

In a small town, progress depends on participation. Here, people are stepping up with ideas, energy and a willingness to help move projects forward.

March 2025 was that moment.

When the EF3 tornado struck, our small rural community rallied quickly. Neighbors and friends stepped in to help, and the recovery effort reflected the strength of the relationships already in place.

We did not wait for perfect conditions to begin rebuilding. We responded with the tools, networks and determination we already had — and in doing so, we demonstrated what a small town can accomplish when it comes together.

What inspires me most is that our people have clearly caught the vision for an even better place.

There is shared energy around moving forward, improving what we have and continuing the work that has already begun. That sense of collective purpose, especially after facing hardship, is powerful.

We are not just talking about a stronger future. We are doing what it takes to make it happen.