Derecho

     By now we all know about the devastating derecho that came through Iowa two weeks ago. We can look at tons of photos of the damage and think we have seen it all. It doesn’t really sink in what all has happened however until you really get out and drive around the entire state of Iowa. Not only do you see flat corn, busted bins, busted sheds, and down trees, you also see a ton of amazing community members outside working together and cleaning up after the storm. It isn’t just community members helping, you see people from different states coming to assist as well. 

    Last week I drove out to Des Moines and during my trip I met tons of electrical trucks along the interstate, large groups of ten or more heavy service trucks at a time. We started looking at their license plates. They were from Missouri, Mississippi, Texas, along with several from Canada. Those are just a few of the many we saw on our way out. We smiled and waved at them all. They were all coming to help restore power for our neighbors, friends, and fellow Iowa residents. 

    The storm damaged power lines left over 400,000 Iowans powerless. As most of you know because you lived through it, the power was not just out for a little while like most storms, it was out for days and even a week. Most towns turned into generator cities. The destruction was state wide, not just a small area or town like with other large storms. It’s amazing to know we live in a very helpful and caring community. During times of need we all come together to help out and that is what I love about small town Iowa. Everybody knows everybody and they will always be there at your doorstep if you need anything. Nothing beats Iowa nice! 

~ Kesley Holdgrafer