Reading Kansas Tornado

READING TORNADO 2011

REACTING • RECOVERING • REBUILDING

T E G

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 2

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

PROGRESS & HOPE M ay 21, 2011 is a night that Reading residents will never forget.

The EF-3 tornado that tore diagonally through town destroyed much of the community, however what was not destroyed was the community’s spirit to survive.

In a little over a month there are signs of progress.

Walker Hundreds of volunteers have helped clean up the town, buildings have been knocked down, lots leveled and what was left standing is being repaired. Countless supplies have been donated and more than $100,000 has been donated to help the financial needs of residents.

From the T-ball games to the Reading Rebuild festival these are signs of progress.

But we cannot forget Don Chesmore who lost his life in the storm. And for the families who lost everything, the process to rebuild will be slow.

This magazine is a compilation of stories and photographs by Emporia Gazette staff reporting on the tornado. We hope that on these pages you see hope, progress and Reading residents pulling together for a bright future.

Chris Walker Editor & Publisher

GAZETTE STAFF COVERING READING: Newsroom: Jeremy Shapiro • Brandy Nance • Monica Springer • Regina Murphy • Bobbi Mlynar Photographers: Matthew Fowler • Matt Bristow • Kellen Jenkins Production: Dallas Sedgwick • Margie McHaley • Dan Ferrell • Justin Ogleby • Bradley Rice Special Thanks to Dr. Steve Haught and John Mallon for providing airplane and pilot services for aerial photography.

Thank you to all the advertisers for making this magazine possible.

The emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 3

Read ing d eva state d

Editor’s note: Originally published on May 23, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

READING — Not a single inch of Reading was spared from a Saturday evening EF-3 tornado, which shredded buildings, flipped over cars, tore down trees and killed a man.

“This was overwhelming,” said Lyon County Sheriff Jeff Cope. “It’s something you don’t want to see happen ever again.”

The damage is heavy but some buildings are in better shape than others.

Among the hardest hit was the grain elevator, post office, senior center and The Miracle Cafe. The school, bank and fire station all suffered some damage, but appear to be largely intact.

Many houses weren’t that lucky.

“A silo is now sitting on my grandparents’ home,” said Shawn McGee. “It went through my living room and dining room and then landed on their

house next to us.”

Don Chesmore, a 53-year-old Reading man, was killed during the storm in his mobile home on the east side of town. Cope said the mobile home flipped upside down.

Five people were injured during the storm but all have been treated and appear to be physically fine. All residents are accounted for.

Lyon County Commission Chairman Scott Briggs, who is a lifelong Reading resident, said they were fortunate the number of injuries was not higher.

Briggs issued a local disaster declaration shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday. He said that will start the clock running for possible funding. He expects the storm will take a huge financial toll.

“It will be a huge amount of money, but that’s just money,” he said. “Our thoughts are with the people affected by this and the people who lost their loved one.”

Please see Devastated, Page 4

Here to help with your rebuilding supplies: • Siding • Windows • Doors • Paint

Residents survey the damage Sunday afternoon done by the tornado that moved through the town the night before.

Ndjg AdXVaan DlcZY ;jcZgVa =dbZ H^cXZ &.'-

• Shingles • Deck Materials • Lumber • Free Estimates

Free delivery to the tornado victims in the Reading area

LUMBER

Kellen Jenkins/Gazette

825 East 6th Emporia, KS (620) 342-0218

We will be here in the future, ready to serve your family’s needs with the same quality service you have come to expect from us.

Roberts - Blue - Barnett FUNERAL HOME

J. MICHAEL TURNBULL 605 State St. • Emporia, KS 620-342-2134

the emporia gazette

Page 4

devastated From PAGE 3 Reading is a town of 247 residents about 19 miles northeast of Emporia.

About 50 Reading residents Sunday morning were already assessing damage and starting to clean up their homes and yards.

“Everyone is here and we are all pitching in,” said Reta Jackson, owner of The Miracle Cafe. “We’ve been working so hard on Reading, on getting it cleaned up and making it nice. It’s going to take a lot of work but we will be here.”

Westar officials are continuing to try to restore electricity in town. There is no running water. The water tower sprung a leak so there is no fresh water, Briggs said.

An overwhelming response The National Weather Service reports that the tornado was an EF-3 with wind speeds up to 165 mph.

Cope said the tornado struck Reading at 9:15 p.m. Saturday causing large scale damage to the city. Emergency officials said 37 structures were destroyed and 200 more in and around Reading were damaged.

“Our condolences go out to the families who are suffering from the loss of the homes,” Cope said.

Cope said first responders quickly ar-

rived from Lyon County, Osage County, Coffey County, Chase County and the City of Emporia.

“We had an overwhelming response,” he said.

Emergency personnel finished up the last stages of search and recovery and opened the city back up to residents shortly after noon Sunday. Residents were allowed to stay until 6 p.m. They returned about 9 a.m. this morning.

“People of Reading had a lot of notice prior to the tornado threatening,” Cope said.

“The tornado first touched down about 2 miles north of Emporia and touched down off and on. It came down on Road X.” Cope said everything was hit from K170 south to the railroad tracks, which is three blocks.

A total of 19 people were taken to a shelter in Emporia Saturday night by LCAT or private vehicles. The American Red Cross set up a shelter at the Senior Citizens Center in Emporia for residents Sunday evening.

Reading residents had 15 minute warning. Emergency officials thanked the media for getting the word out. If it wasn’t for that, more people may have died or been hurt, Briggs said.

“I’m grateful there wasn’t much life lost here, but a lot of lives have been affected,” said Rep. Peggy Mast (R-Emporia).

Can Reading be rebuilt?

Rep. Willie Prescott (R-Osage City)

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

said it’s hard enough to make it in small towns anyway.

“To think you can ever rebuild is out of the question,” he said. “Rebuilding without assistance is totally out of the question. We’ve seen what’s happening in Greensburg. Can we expect that? No. Can we hope for it? Yes.” That being said, Prescott acknowledged farm communities have an inner strength.

He said people are resillent and don’t let doubters stand in their way.

Mast said Kansans understand tornados are a way of life in this state. Kansans are so resilient to respond to the needs of one another, she said.

“People are coming out, helping one another and trying to restore life as they know it as quickly as possible,” she said.

“The pain is there and it’s going to take a lot of time to adapt to the changes.”

Mast said she hopes the National Guard will assist with the clean-up. In the past there has been some state disaster funding available. This year with the tight state budget, Mast is less sure about funding.

“The state will be looking at this,” she said.

Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli, director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, arrived in Reading Sunday to assess the damage. He has sent state resources to help.

“The state of Kansas is here to help the people of Reading and Lyon County officials as they make sure everyone is cared

for and kept safe,” he said. “We will provide whatever help we can to accomplish that goal and start the community on the road to recovery.”

Gov. Sam Brownback took an aerial tour of the damage this morning.

Brownback declared a state of emergency after the storms.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim and everyone impacted by this storm,” Brownback said.“This state declaration paves the way for the state to assist the counties with resources and to seek federal assistance if the damages qualify.”

A Facebook page has been set up where residents are communicating and posting their conditions.

An animal shelter is set up at the Lyon County Fairgrounds in Emporia for lost pets recovered from the area. Representatives from the Kansas State Animal Response Team are on site to care for the animals until they can be picked up by the owners.

Black Heart’s House of Art collected water and various supplies. As of 3:45 p.m.

Sunday they had collected 3,066 items.

The Red Cross is collecting donations by calling (785) 234-0568. You can also donate online at www.thinkred.org.

Financial donations to The Salvation Army may be made by texting the word ARMY to 90999 (automatic $10 donation) or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Material donations aren’t needed at this time.

Great Needs Great Deeds.®

Great Clips® Charities

2326 Industrial Rd (Across from Super Walmart) Emporia, KS 66801 620-340-0880 • No Appointments Required M-F: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Sat: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sun: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

-$//

For the month of July - 10% of all sales will be donated to the United Way of the Flint Hills’ Reading Tornado Relief Fund.

A cash donation box will be in the salon during July and any cash donations will be matched by Great Clips as well.

Our goal is to raise $3,000 for the United Way of the Flint Hills’ Reading Tornado Relief Fund!!

.%)'%(&''

The emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 5

‘ yo u a r e n ot going to b eli eve this’ what had happened when there was lightning. The kids were screaming. The dog was afraid to leave his doghouse.”

By Jeremy Shapiro Scales said she has lived in Reading shapiro@emporiagazette.com since 1986. Until Saturday she had never had to go into a storm shelter.

Stunned, bewildered and gloomy were She doesn’t have insurance. Her some of the words Reading residents and brother, Mike, and her parents are talktheir family members used to describe how ing about rebuilding. they felt about the condition of their homes “We’re going to just take it one step at and property after Saturday’s tornado. a time,” she said.

Most residents Michele LaFave were on the one was in Emporia when “We could see what had hand thankful to be the storm arrived. She happened when there was alive and know no nervously waited unharm occurred to til it cleared and then lightning. The kids were their family, friends came with her parscreaming. The dog was afraid and neighbors. On ents, Paul and Ruth to leave his doghouse.” the other hand, they Gutierrez, to see what were shocked at the damage there was. level of destruction.

“We couldn’t see Jill Scales considers herself lucky. She well in the dark but we knew it was bad,” has walls still up.

Ruth Gutierrez said. “We’re hesitant to even “My other family members lost every- see what it looks like during daytime.” thing,” she said. “There’s nothing left of LaFave’s son was fine, but two of her my brother’s trailer. My mother lost her cats were missing. home as well.”

“She is just devastated,” Ruth said.

The Scales family rode out the storm “She’s hoping it’s salvageable but doubtin Doug Scales’ homemade storm shelter. ing it. She’s a single parent who just got Doug and Linda are Jill’s parents. her house paid off.”

“After it passed my dad opened the LaFave works in accounts receivable door and said ‘You are not going to be- at Dolly Madison. lieve this,’” Jill Scales said. “We could see “She worked hard to pay off the mortEditor’s note: Originally published on May 23, 2011

Matt Bristow/Gazette

This home suffered severe damage in the May 21 tornado.

gage,” Ruth said.

Shawn McGee along with family and friends were enjoying a Saturday evening in Emporia until news spread about a tornado hitting their hometown.

“We hauled over as soon we could,” McGee said.

The results were predictable but tough

to take nonetheless. McGee’s house was heavily damaged as was his grandparents home.

His mother, Ivy Woods, rode out the storm in a GMC Yukon. McGee said two other vehicles hit Woods during the tornado. She went to the hospital but was treated and released, McGee said.

FE>I8KLC8K@FEJ

Lyon Lyon County County “COAD” “COAD” “Communities “Communities Activated Activated In In Disaster” Disaster” Serving Emporia, KS and the area with THE BEST music from the 70's thru today @96.1 on your FM dial.

96 one The Wave would like to thank Mike Dorcey, of our staff, and all the volunteers for their tireless efforts to help the residents of Reading.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

the emporia gazette

Page 6

C hesmo re : a go o d nei ghbo r , g o o d m a n Editor’s note: Originally published on May 26, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

Don Chesmore was known by many in Reading. He was known as a good neighbor, a good man and a man who served his country.

Chesmore was killed when his mobile home flipped upside down during Saturday’s tornado, which was rated an EF-3.

He was 53.

‘Good neighbor and good man’ Bo Bahnmaier was Chesmore’s neighbor and they worked together in Lebo.

Bahnmaier sold the lot to Chesmore where he and his wife lived. The two worked together at Dream Works Homes in Lebo. Chesmore did stain and trim work and was real good at both, Bahnmaier said.

“He was a good neighbor and a good man,” Bahnmaier said. “He would help you out in a heartbeat.”

Bahnmaier said Chesmore loved to hunt.

“He lived to go hunting,” Bahnmaier said. “He had big mounts and was really dedicated to it. He was a die-hard sportsman. He had three or four bird dogs.”

Bahnmaier said Chesmore was really excited about an elk hunt in New Mexico.

He said he talked for months about it. He came back with some elk.

“He had a big ol’ mount up,” Bahnmaier said.

Ariel Brecheisen, Bahnmaier’s granddaughter, was looking for Chesmore’s cats on Tuesday. She saw one scurry under the trailer but it ran off before she could get to it.

“It crushed me when I heard about Don,” she said.

Those left behind He was born on July 12, 1957, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, the son of Osia Tryon and Ruth Evelyn Tedford Chesmore. He married Lavonda Hughs on Dec. 18, 1993.

She survives.

Other survivors in addition to their son, Charlie, include: a daughter Nicole Lutz of Topeka; seven grandchildren; a brother, Robert Chesmore, Augusta, Mont.; and sisters, Kathryn Chambers, Soldier, Iowa, Debora Mareska, Emporia, and Janet Drake, Griswold, Iowa.

Matt Bristow/Gazette

This aerial photo shows the path of the EF-3 tornado that hit Reading May 21.

Hunter, veteran, worker Chesmore was a hunter and handled the maintenance at the senior center in Osage City. He was a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Wild Turkey Federation, the National Rifle Association and the North American Hunt Club.

He also served in the United States

Health Care for Generations

Brock Kretsinger, D.O.

Tim Duncan, M.D.

Looking for a physician that fits your health care needs?

Internal Medicine is accepting new patients.

Call for your appointment today. 620-342-2521

Memorial A memorial fund has been established.

Contributions to the Donald Chesmore Memorial Fund may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 175, Emporia, KS 66801. Messages to the family may be left at www.roberstblue.com.

Jhkij oekh ^[Wbj^ je j^[ [nf[h_[dY[Z" Z[Z_YWj[Z WdZ YWh_d] f^oi_Y_Wdi e\ ?dj[hdWb C[Z_Y_d[ 7iieY_Wj[i" j^[ bed][ij [ijWXb_i^[Z _dZ[f[dZ[dj ]hekf c[Z_YWb fhWYj_Y[ _d ;cfeh_W$ J^[ ?dj[hdWb C[Z_Y_d[ 7iieY_Wj[i f^oi_Y_Wdi f[hiedWbbo fhel_Z[ Xej^ _d#fWj_[dj ^eif_jWb YWh[ WdZ ekj#fWj_[dj e\ÓY[ c[Z_YWb i[hl_Y[i \eh ekh fWj_[dji$ Ekh Yecc_jc[dj je ekh fWj_[dji Yedj_dk[i ZWo WdZ d_]^j$

The Internal Medicine Associates physicians and staff express our support and encouragement to the town of Reading as they rebuild.

We thank the many volunteers who have given their time and resources to help the community.

James M. Geitz, M.D.

Army and the United States National Guard.

?dj[hdWb C[Z_Y_d[ 7iieY_Wj[i f^oi_Y_Wdi Wh[ if[Y_Wb_iji _d Z_W]dei_i WdZ Z_i[Wi[ cWdW][c[dj$ M[ Wh[ Yecc_jj[Z je fhecej_d] ^_]^ gkWb_jo b_l_d] j^hek]^ fh[l[djWj_l[ ^[Wbj^ YWh[ WdZ Z_i[Wi[ cWdW][c[dj \eh WZkbji$

Rachel A. Duncan, M.D.

Ever I. Ponciano, M.D.

1301 West 12th Ave. Suite 202 Emporia, KS 66801

The emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 7

‘ I nspirationa l’ M i r ac le C a fe lo o k s to r eb u i l d

Matt Bristow/Gazette

The Miracle Cafe in March of this year.

Editor’s note: Originally published on May 23, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

Rep. Willie Prescott (R-Osage City) said Sunday morning he already fielded a number of calls about the condition of The Miracle Cafe.

“People not from Reading, the first

matthew fowler/gazette

The Miracle Cafe after May 21, 2011.

question they have is how bad is the cafe,” he said.

The answer, unfortunately, is bad.

The cafe appears to have suffered fairly heavy damage on the inside. With broken windows and trees down all around it, it looked nothing like it’s usual role of focal point of the city.

“It’s a hub, Friday night it’s packed,” said Reta Jackson, owner of The Miracle Cafe said. “We have it filled and have peo-

ple sit on picnic tables outside.”

Jackson said they had a birthday party for her grandson that ended at about 4:30 p.m. Saturday.

Jackson said when the sirens went off she was worried the mayor didn’t have a key to the Methodist church. Her husband brought a key to the church but it was already open.

Her husband returned home to their house south of town before the storm hit.

Jackson said they didn’t get any damage at home and everyone in her family was OK. She said Sunday she was trying to salvage what she can to feed the emergency workers.

“We’ve got to keep the workers going,” she said. “I went and got bottled water and bread and put all my meat in the freezer. “ Please see Miracle, Page 8

HERE To HELp you wiTH youR auTomoTivE nEEdS!

2011 Toyota Corolla S

2011 Toyota Camry LE

Super mileage, sporty appearance, MP3 player compatible, equipped with the 5 start safety system including smart stop technology, 2 years of Toyota Care complimentary maintenance.

Smooth ride, spacious interior, great gas mileage, one of the safest cars on the road, equipped with the 5 start safety system including smart stop technology, 2 years of Toyota Care complimentary maintenance.

2011 Toyota Sienna LE

7 or 8 passenger seating, new sportier design for 2011, rearview backup camera standard on V6, excellent re-sale value, equipped with the 5 start safety system including smart stop technology, 2 years of Toyota Care complimentary maintenance.

Reading community, we are thinking of you.

2815 W. Hwy 50 • Emporia KS 620-343-6723 • 800-416-6723 www.emporiamotors.com

the emporia gazette

Page 8

‘it just ruin ed this pl ace ’ Editor’s note: Originally published on May 24, 2011

By Monica Springer

springer@emporiagazette.com

READING — Walking down the streets of Reading on Monday morning, the mayor of this small town in northeast Lyon County said everyone in town sustained some type of damage.

“Buildings are shredded,” said Lonnie Atchison, mayor. “It just ruined this place.”

A metal trash can that was at the elementary school now sits a block away in someone’s yard.

Roofs of houses lay on the ground.

On some heavily damaged houses people from the street can look into the upper level of the homes and into the attics.

Trees have snapped limbs and some trees are completely missing bark.

About 40 people gathered inside the basement of the Methodist Church to take shelter from the storm.

“It took a wallop,” Atchison said.

“It was quite frightening there for a while.”

He said also that practically every car in town has damaged or broken

“It was really mixed feelings, resigned to scared to death to screaming.”

Atchison

windows.

“It (the tornado) just imploded them,” Atchison said.

The Reading community has done a lot of work in recent years to improve the town. The city has bought new equipment, including a dump truck, a back hoe and a utility trailer. The community building had been fixed with new siding. The city has also painted buildings in town.

The storm came from the southwest and went northeast.

Reading Elementary School has broken windows. Large trees are snapped in front of the school.

The school lost a section of roof that covered the stage, said Mike Nulton, superintendent of North Lyon County USD 251. The school district is working with firms to address roofing, sid-

The FHTC family supports Bill and Paula Hanlon and the Reading Community.

3301 West 18th Ave. Emporia, KS 66801 800-711-6947 • 620-343-4600 www.fhtc.edu

ing, and window issues.

“If we can get the materials and workers in place, I think Reading School will be fully repaired in a few weeks,” Nulton said in an email Monday afternoon.

The day before the storm was the last day of school.

Atchison said while walking down the streets that he has been near tornadoes before, and he has seen some from the distance, but he has never been in one, “sitting in the basement of the church while it’s getting mangled.”

Early Saturday evening, the storm didn’t look that threatening, Atchison said. Storms flared up around Topeka, then a little cell showed up near Emporia and headed Reading’s way.

The Methodist Church is the city’s emergency shelter. Atchison was home when the tornado sirens went off. He went to open up the church.

There were already seven or eight people waiting to get in, he said. In all 38 people took shelter in the church, including young children.

Atchison said the people in the church huddled together in a group.

“Some people just crossed their fingers and prayed for the best,” he said.

“It was really mixed feelings, resigned to scared to death to screaming.”

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

miracle From PAGE 7 About 10 years ago the town’s only cafe burned to the ground.

Citizens banded together to try and form a new place to eat and formed Reading Community Development, Inc. A location was identified. Those who had skills did the remodeling; others with skills did the decorating. Vintage dining sets were donated — dishes, glassware, tableware — and miracle after miracle, a cafe was born in the oldest building in Reading, a house built in 1870, back in Reading’s big railroad days.

“Everyone worked and donated tables, chairs, everything,” Jackson said.

“It’s called Miracle Cafe because it took a miracle to get it open.”

Rep. Peggy Mast (R-Emporia) said losing the cafe is devastating.

“The Miracle Cafe has been an inspiration to me, the way it’s operated and it’s been so successful and a benefit to the community.”

Mast said she last ate at The Miracle Cafe a month or two ago. That night’s special was already gone.

“It’s a real popular spot,” she said. “It’s attracted people from other communities to come. It’s been an inspiration to the community and to the area around it.”

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 9

S HELTER PROVIDES T E M P O R A RY HOME FOR TORNAD O V I C T I M S EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on May 24, 2011

BY JEREMY SHAPIRO

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

A shelter operated by the American Red Cross at the Emporia Senior Center welcomed Reading area residents Sunday evening.

While far from the comforts of home, residents were provided meals, a television, a place to sleep and a venue to catch up with neighbors and friends.

Janet Kloster, a Red Cross volunteer from Salina, said they’ve had a great response from the community and from volunteers.

“Several individuals and businesses have come by to give money and offer help,” she said.

Financial donations may be dropped of at the Senior Center, 603 E. 12th Ave. Donations of supplies must be taken to the Lyon County Extension Office, 2632 W. US Highway 50. Residents needing specific things can also go to that office or call 341-3220.

“We’ve been able to match requests with donations,” Kloster said. “People have needed tarps and diapers and all different things. We have the resources to

JEREMY SHAPIRO/GAZETTE

American Red Cross volunteers Janet Kloster, right, and Dwight Moore wait for Reading area residents to arrive at the Emporia Senior Center.

help with most of those requests.”

A Baptist group, called the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Team, is cooking meals at the shelter. Grilled hamburgers were among the items awaiting Reading residents when they arrived after cleaning up their property Monday.

Volunteers from Emporia and across the state are helping operate the shelter, said Dwight Moore, an Emporia volunteer.

“We’ll stay here and be open as long as there is a need for it,” he said.

We are here for you!

• Electrical • Plumbing • Flooring • Cabinets

EMPORIA 1700 Industrial Rd (620) 343-6100

• Paint • Lumber • Furniture • Hardware Store Hours:

Mon.-Fri.: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

• Lawn & Garden • Decorating • Building Packages Credit you can build with Apply Today!

the emporia gazette

Page 10

o f f i ci als tour Read i ng State Sen. Jeff Longbine and Gov. Sam Brownback tour the destruction in Reading.

monica springer/gazette

Editor’s note: Originally published on May 23, 2011

By Monica Springer

springer@emporiagazette.com

READING — Several local and state officials toured Reading on Monday morning, stopping to talk to local residents about their experiences during the storm and to talk about Reading’s future.

“Our hearts and thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Reading,” said Gov. Sam Brownback. “This is difficult. Much of the town has been hit. The business structure within the town has been hit, much of it destroyed.”

Brownback was one of several people to tour the area. Also in Reading on Monday were U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, state Sen. Jeff Longbine, state Rep. Peggy Mast and Scott Briggs, chairman of the Lyon County Commission.

Brownback outlined steps people can take to volunteer. Those steps include: F Do not just show up to Reading. Call 211 and identify your group. “People want to help, they need to help, but it needs to be in an organized fashion,” Brownback said.

F Contribute money. Go to ksready.gov.

Brownback said the most helpful way people can help is to contribute money.

F Brownback also encouraged people to seek shelter when tornado sirens go off.

“I’m just warning folks. If you get the warning and it hits, get to safety and have a plan,” Brownback.

Kansas Adjutant Maj. Gen. Lee Tafanelli said resources across the state are in Reading to assist in the clean up. A dollar amount for the damage is not yet known.

Brownback and Lt. Governor Jeff Colyer landed in Reading in Army helicopters.

They toured Reading in two large passenger vans with members of the media. They also stopped to talk to residents about their experiences.

Reading Mayor Lonnie Atchison told Brownback about the damage.

“Everybody got some kind of damage,” Atchison said, adding that nearly every car in town has destroyed windows.

Atchison told the governor that residents in Reading had about 15 minutes of

warning before the tornado struck.

The train tracks that run east and west through town had debris littered across them, Atchison said, and that has since been cleaned up.

Moran toured Reading with Briggs at about 7 a.m. Monday.

“This was a serious storm that created lots of damage,” Moran said after the tour.

“Our small towns already struggle. These are very difficult circumstances when you get an additional burden.”

Moran said of the residents he has talked with, there seems to be an upbeat feeling in the community.

“It’s a real ‘We can do this’ attitude, which is pretty typical of Kansas,” Moran said.

Moran said in Kansas, whether it be in other tornado-stricken towns such as Greensburg, Chapman, or Hoisington, there’s always a sense of home.

“Despite the destruction there’s an inspiration in this. We’re going to make things work despite the tragedy,” Moran said.

Moran said he took a few photographs on his tour, including one of the Methodist Church where 38 people rode out the storm and one of the heavily damaged post office.

“There’s a real sense of community pride,” he said.

Briggs and other area officials said there has been a significant amount of progress already in the community.

Streets are now clear and Westar crews are working on power lines. Officials reported some power has been restored Monday afternoon.

On Monday cleanup started on tree limbs and other debris that is burnable, Briggs said.

“We’re getting people back in. There’s been a lot of progress. These guys are amazing,” Briggs said.

In a press conference, Briggs said it’s a feat separating plain lumber from trees to debris to hazardous material.

He said he’s not sure of a time frame for when the town will be cleared of the debris.

Much of it depends on the weather, Briggs said, and storms are expected in the area again today.

Briggs said the real heroes are the people who are working to clear the town.

“They have done a tremendous job. Local residents are boastful today,” he said.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The emporia gazette

Page 11

animals being kept at emporia fairgrounds Editor’s note: Originally published on May 24, 2011

By Bobbi Mlynar

Special to The Gazette

Temporary housing has been set up in Emporia for pets who survived a tornado that devastated the City of Reading Saturday night.

On Monday afternoon, 11 dogs were being sheltered in cages under a large makeshift kennel built of temporary fencing and covered by tarpolins. The shelter was built near the livestock exhibit area at the Lyon County Fairgrounds.

“These are dogs who don’t have a home right now,” said Christen Skaer of Wichita, president of the Kansas State Animal Response Team. “Fortunately, these all have (owners). … We’re helping while the owners get situated, find new homes.”

Food, supplies and treatment for the pets being kept at the fairgrounds have been provided by Walmart, veterinarians in the Wichita area, and Dr. Duane Henrikson of the Emporia Veterinary Hospital, who donated his services on Sunday.

“We’ve had some Good Samaritans in Emporia,” Skaer said. “We don’t need any more supplies.”

Skaer said that none of the dogs at the fairgrounds are expected to be put up for adoption. The dogs simply are waiting until their owners have been able to locate permanent housing for themselves and their pets.

All either were brought to the fairgrounds or were picked up in Reading after the response team arrived in the area Sunday morning.

Other Reading dogs and cats whose owners unknown are waiting to be claimed and being tended under the supervision of the Emporia Police Department’s Animal Control officer Peggy Derrick.

Pet owners who are looking for their dogs and cats will need to make arrangements with Derrick, who may be reached by calling 340-6345 or 343-4220.

The city animal control department has been working with the state rescue group to care for the Reading animals.

Kelly Banna of Wichita, a KSART volunteer stationed at the fairgrounds dog care center, suggested that owners of missing pets bring a photo of their pets and themselves, if possible, to claim them from the shelter.

If a photo is not available, the owner must describe the pet before he or she will be allowed to look among unclaimed dogs and cats.

“That’s to prevent having someone take a dog,” Banna said.

Owners also may fill out missing pet forms so they can be contacted if additional cats and dogs come into the city shelter.

Matt Bristow/Gazette

A beagle rests at the Lyon County Fairgrounds after surviving the Reading tornado. Volunteers from Sedgwick and Reno Counties cared for the dogs.

Skaer suggested that pet owners take some precautionary measures now to help find and identify their pets when emergencies arise. Microchips can be implanted by a veterinarian and identification tags and bands also are helpful.

“The more they can prepare for disaster, the better,” she said.

Skaer does not anticipate an influx of additional dogs and cats from Reading, either at the known-owner shelter or at the city shelter.

“I think that it’s a small enough town, we won’t get too many more,” she said.

And livestock Dogs and cats were not the only animals set loose to fend for themselves when the tornado swept a path from north of Emporia, to Reading, and on to Osage County. The tornado also damaged fencing and freed a number of cattle.

Wanda and Lowell Chambers of rural Emporia encountered a herd of 15 to 20 white cattle meandering along Burlingame Road Sunday morning. The cattle showed no fear or surprise as the vehicle moved closer, with horn honking.

“They were going north on Burlingame Road,” Wanda Chambers said, explaining that the cattle had come off a gravel road onto Burlingame as the Chambers drove south in their van. The cattle stood their ground for a short time, with one showing a touch of attitude.

“That one cow just turned and looked at us like, ‘What are you doing?’” Chambers said, laughing.

Soon a few of them turned around and, with the others following, meandered south to the gravel road and headed back the way they had come, and the Chambers continued on in time for Sunday school at Grace United Methodist Church.

Page 12

the emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

sc hool in re l ativ ely good sh ape af ter torn ado inserted and then the seams came back down.

“That’s very common in tornadoes,” Nulton said.

By Jeremy Shapiro shapiro@emporiagazette.com While many of the other parts of the building can be fixed in the next few AMERICUS — While there was some weeks, Nulton estimates it will take all moderate damage, compared to its sur- summer to repair the roof.

The kitchen area in the southwest roundings Reading Elementary School is in adequate condition following Sat- part of the building got beat up pretty good, Nulton said. Nearly all windows urday’s tornado.

By the end of the day Monday the on the west side are out, he said.

A two-by-four flew into the room school had such luxuries as electricity, functioning bathrooms, running water used for computer and speech therapy and air conditioning. Emergency of- purposes. It smashed up a computer and ficials are in the process of moving its then poked some holes in the wall.

There’s some minor damage to busstaging area to the school.

“We came out of this smelling like a es but nothing serious. The playground equipment may rose,” said North also need to be Lyon County replaced, Nulton School Board said. member Bill McHTKR ArClellan. chitects, Groh School district Roofing, Gerald leaders said durSchumann Electric ing an emergency and AAA Glass all meeting Monday have checked out in Americus the the building and building should evaluated what be ready when needs to be done, school resumes in Nulton said.

August. The much He said they more murky quesdo not have to letion is how many gally bid out work grade school age because there children will reare provisions in main in Reading place for emerin three months. gency situations.

There is big Since the building hole in the roof. is open to the eleWindows are broments, it qualifies ken. A computer as an emergency, was smashed up. he said.

Playground equipCost for the ment is nicked repairs are not up. known at this But North Lyon matt bristow/gazette time. The school County Superindistrict does tendent Mike Nul- Workers install a temporary roof above have insurance ton said, structur- the Reading Elementary School stage. and Nulton has ally, the building worked with the held up well deinsurance adjuster before. spite winds roaring up to 165 mph.

Emergency officials want to use the Nulton said the roof blew off the school in the portion of the building school as a staging area and a shelter that covered the stage. The stage is on should there be more severe weather.

The command center had been on the the side of the gymnasium.

“The whole roof is gone,” he said. edge of town in a wildlife and parks fa“Wall to wall, there’s nothing left of it.” cility.

Board member Sarah Meenen asked It rained on the stage and gym but if they could potentially be reimbursed staff has been able to clean it up.

Nulton said it’s too big a hole to with federal money for allowing the patch. After considerable discussion school to be used for emergency operawith engineers and an insurance adjust- tions.

Nulton said it was unlikely. The er, an order was placed for materials amount of uninsured damage may not and parts, he said.

“It probably will be weathered in by meet the $3 million Federal Emergency Thursday, or Friday if storms move in,” Management Agency threshold.

Overall, Nulton said his biggest conNulton said.

There is scar damage to the roof cern is not with the building repairs. It’s from debris coming from elsewhere. with the rest of Reading, he said.

“There is a lot of rental properties,” The fabricated roof portion of the building had all the seams raised. Debris was he said. “The damage is widespread. No Editor’s note: Originally published on May 24, 2011

monica springer/gazette

Fallen trees obscure the view of Reading Elementary School Monday morning.

house went untouched.”

He said since it happened the day after school let out for the year, it gives residents three months to rebuild. He said some families may choose not to come back.

Nicki Edwards, a fifth grade teacher, said she feels awful for the families of

her students.

“The students are all treating this as some kind of adventure,” she said. “It’s their parents that were glassy-eyed and shell shocked. You ask what you can do, but there isn’t anything you can do except put your arm around them and tell them ‘I’m so glad you are OK.’”

Wishing those affected by the tornado a fast recovery!

2301 Industrial 343-1500

The emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

da m ag e totals still be i n g c a lc ul ate d Editor’s note: Originally published on May 25, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

Though it has been reported elsewhere the Reading tornado caused $2.3 million in damage, the truth is the amount is still unknown, said Rick Frevert, Lyon County emergency management coordinator.

Frevert said they also don’t have a final tally of number of homes and businesses with major and minor damage in the storm.

Figures for both could be verified and ready for public dissemination today, Frevert said.

The important number is the amount of uninsured losses. It takes a tad more than $3 million in uninsured losses for a town to qualify for federal money. Since the Federal Emergency Management Agency pays for 75 percent of rebuilding public buildings, it’s a big deal.

Emergency officials said they are still receiving damage reports so the dollar amount of damage is trickling

Page 13

T h o u s a n ds o f s u p p l ie s ro l l i n

upward. Staff from the Lyon County Appraiser’s Office visited Reading Tuesday and their findings could be part of the damage calculations.

Frevert said for emergency crews, the emphasis for now is still on safety.

He said they are trying to coordinate as much debris removal as possible.

“That way if we get more bad weather, there won’t be as much danger with debris flying around,” he said.

Two landfills have been established each with a different type of debris being brought in. Damaged appliances are being dropped off at the park and will be hauled away later. This division of debris has helped speed up collection, Frevert said.

Frevert was pleased that power was restored to those that can receive it and that some homes had running water.

“We are trying to return things to a degree of normalcy,” he said.

Frevert said in meetings with emergency workers, they outline a list of things to do for each work period. At the end of that period, they make a list of what was done and what wasn’t.

“What didn’t get done makes the list for the next work period,” he said.

Jeremy Shapiro/Gazette

We are Strongly Committed to helping our customers during this time of rebuilding

620-343-8500 • www.seamless.net Simply Done Right • High-Speed Internet - For Emporia & Rural Lyon County • Virus & Spyware Removal • Remote Backup Service • Custom Order Dell PCs • Computer Networking for Business

Volunteers Pablo Loyola, right, and Nancy Hargett organize donated supplies at the Lyon County Extension Office Monday.

Editor’s note: Originally published on May 24, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

The donations keep coming, and coming and coming.

The generosity exhibited by Emporians and people around the state was evidenced big time at Black Heart’s House of Art and at the Lyon County Extension Office Monday.

Water, diapers, food, paper towels, toothbrushes and hand sanitizer were just some of the dozens of items brought in all day for the victims of Saturday’s Reading tornado.

“We stopped counting when we hit 4,000 donated items,” said Michele Belli with Black Heart’s House of Art. Beill got a jump start on collecting donations Sunday before the Volunteer Reception Center opened Monday at the extension office.

Donations are still needed and can be dropped off at the extension office, 2632 W. U.S. Highway 50. The most immediate needs are: F Sports drinks, diet drinks, snack-type foods (breakfast bars, peanut butter crackers, etc.).

F Bug spray, sun screen, heavy duty garbage bags, rakes, work gloves, safety goggles, sun hats, ponchos in case of rain.

F Office supplies, including paper, pens, clipboards, staplers and staples.

F Personal care items: Shaving cream, razors, toothbrushes and toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, etc.

In addition, Reading area residents in need of specific items can come by the office or call 341-3220. Volunteers will attempt to find those items.

When she woke up at 6 a.m. Sunday, Belli said she knew she had to do something for the people that lost their homes in the tornado. She decided to open her shop at 720 Commercial St. to provide a centralized donation center. She messaged 100 friends and the thing spread like wildfire thorough word of mouth and social media.

“We had people bringing in carloads from Kansas City, Wichita, Vasser, Baldwin City and several other places,” she said. “It was overwhelming in a good way.”

While the volume of donations astounded Belli, the fact people were being so generous did not.

“People have good hearts and they move so quickly,” she said. “We live in such a caring community.”

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 14

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

RE B O U N D OR GHOST TOWN? R ES I D E N TS UNSURE OF FUTURE EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on May 25, 2011

BY JEREMY SHAPIRO

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

READING — While the pain and suffering hasn’t gone anyway, residents, family members and volunteers across Reading were in good spirits Tuesday while removing debris and cleaning up what’s left of their homes.

Resiliency was one word often used.

Uncertainly was another one.

While hopeful the town will bounce back from Saturday’s EF-3 tornado, their is also a fear it could turn into a ghost town.

The future of Reading depends on a lot of things. Having the elementary school re-open is one. That will happen, said Principal Peggy Foret.

Another is being able to get FEMA money. That is less certain.

“We still don’t know,” said Rick Frevert, Lyon County emergency management coordinator. A lot of people stopped to ask him that question Tuesday, hopeful that the uninsured damage hits the magic FEMA aid number.

Then there’s the question of whether there are jobs to come back to.

Bill Hooper has lived in a house on

First Street for 54 years. His livelihood and memories were violently and rudely tossed around by the tornado.

“It’s a total loss,” said his son, Eric.

“Every room except two of them are gone. You see that big hole? That was two bedrooms and an attic.”

Hooper’s wife is postmaster at the damaged Reading Post Office.

“If her job is relocated, we will relocate too,” Bill said.

Humor and departure Jessica Graybill and her daughter Ariel Brecheisen are going to be former Reading residents.

The house owned by Graybill’s father, Bo Bahnmaier, is in bad condition.

Bahnmaier already had the insurance adjuster take a look and they decided it was not fixable. He already had the insurance check Tuesday.

Graybill and Brecheisen decided to have some fun with their old home.

They painted “Gone with the Wind” on one side and “Toto Ran Away” on the other.

“You have got to find humor even in disaster,” Bahnmaier said.

Bahnmaier, a retired custodian at the school, used to live in town but moved Please see Future, Page 16

20th Anniversary

Supporting Reading during this time of rebuilding!

“Providing the BEST in Quality GM cars and trucks and the BEST customer service for over 45 years!!” )&'( M$ KI >_]^mWo +& ;cfeh_W" AI ,(& )*(#(-** mmm$bed]X_d[Wkje$Yec

See Us For Your Building & Equipment Needs: • Power Tools • Plumbing • Outdoor Power Equipment • Lighting • Building Materials • Paint • Lawn & Garden 801 W. 6th Ave • Emporia, KS 66801 (620) 343-2800 • www.waterstruevalue.com

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The emporia gazette

Page 15

the emporia gazette

Page 16

St u dio damage d i n Re ading torna d o

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

future From PAGE 14 to a house about five mile east of town.

His daughter and granddaughter made a dash for Bahnmaier’s home the night of the storm. They were fine. Their possessions were not.

“Their goes a lot of memories,” Brecheisen said. “All of our things went out the windows. It’s something you never expect.”

Shed taken out

Matt Bristow/Gazette

Sculptor John Forsythe stands in front of an old Catholic church he uses as his studio in Reading. Although suffering some roof damage, the building escaped the brunt of the storm.

Editor’s note: Originally published on May 26, 2011

By Brandy Nance

nance@emporiagazette.com

Emporia resident and sculptor John Forsythe was lucky when it came to the Reading tornado that hit on Saturday.

Forsythe owns a former Catholic church on the outskirts of Reading, which he uses as his sculpting studio, Veritas Bronze, which is Latin for “the truth of bronze.” Forsythe creates monumental bronze. He worked in Lawrence for five years and has worked out of Reading for the past 10 years.

When Forsythe heard of the tornado, among his concerns was his studio. His studio escaped the brunt of the damage with only damage to the roof and the contents inside escaped damage.

“All the windows are intact,” Forsythe said, of the stained glass windows. “I knew the place could take a pretty good hit. It’s triple bricked.”

A cross that was on the roof fell off, shattering on the ground. Forsythe pieced it together as best he could on the sidewalk in front of the old church. Among other damage was six cedar trees in front — they were all down, Forsythe said.

Forsythe said he arrived in Reading to check on things Sunday — the day after the tornado.

“It was mild chaos,” he said.

He said on Wednesday the town has been cleaned up significantly.

“This is clean compared to where it was,” he said, despite a mass of mangled trees off to the side of his studio. The trees in front of his studio had been cleared and removed by Wednesday.

“I hope this is the one and only time Reading gets hit,” he said, as he stood in front of his studio.

Matt Bristow/Gazette

Matt and Brandee Ball and their three boys rode out the storm in their home near the railroad tracks. They could hear the windows break as the tornado swept in.

John Bishop, Brandee’s father, said the house didn’t suffer too much immediate harm but the tornado lifted the roof a little.

Matt’s shed, where he fixes antique cars and hot rods, was gone. Ball was able to transport the cars elsewhere after cleaning up the broken glass.

Bishop said they will rebuild the shed if they decide to stay at the house. Insurance may be the deciding factor. Matt works at Menu while Brandee works at Lyon County State Bank.

“They are taking it pretty well all things considered,” Bishop said.

Open for business While The Miracle Cafe, post office and Tightwad Bank will be out of commission for a while, one business is set to re-open today.

Heads, Hands and Feet, a two-month old barber and beauty shop, was largely undamaged. Stepping inside is a slightly eerily experience because unlike pretty much everything else around it, the interior looks normal.

“I had some roof damage and the skylights blew out,” said Rich Heathman, who owns the store with his wife, Amanda. “But we’ll be back open. It’s time to get back to work.”

Heathman didn’t completely luck out. He was in the process of opening a vending machine filled convenience store next door.

The roof was only partially done so it was open to the elements when the tornado arrived. In fact, before the storm Heathman had just bought a stack of lumber and it was sitting at the front of the new store. He donated the lumber to people in need.

Although it may never get built in Reading, the idea for the store still excites Heathman.

“It will be all vending machines,” he said. “There will be one for things like bread and milk, one with juice and drinks, one with worms and one with personal items. There would be tables in the middle and free wi-fi. There would also be a microwave to use and change and credit card machines.”

Matt Bristow/Gazette

The awning for Tightwad Bank in Reading lies two blocks east of the where the bank is located.

Volunteers pitch in Even with some groups unable to volunteer because of the threat of bad weather Tuesday, Reading was full of volunteers removing debris. Several groups were assigned various yards to clean. Other volunteers trimmed trees.

Some prepared foods. All seemed happy to lend a hand.

Harley Yoder has been to many disasters as part of a Amish Mennonite relief group from Garnett. He was removing various debris from a side yard Tuesday.

“I’ve seen quite a few of these and this is one of the worst,” he said.

Next door, Kevin Miller was one of 23 volunteers from the Lyndon Amish Mennonite Church.

The group was picking up bigger debris first, but also sprinkled in was personal items like an old Yankess baseball card, a “Last of the Mohicans” VHS video and a Donald Duck hat.

“I really appreciate what I’m seeing out here,” Miller said. “People are coming together far and wide to help this town regroup. This is a blessing.”

Pulling together Foret, the school principal, said the residents are staring to come to grips with reality. They are grateful their weren’t more people hurt and residents seem willing to pull together.

Foret said residents are also grateful for the outpouring of support. Even simple things like getting a pair of shoes is appreciated.

“You give a child a stuffed animal and they take it and hold it,” Foret said.

“They are as happy as a lark. We take these things for granted.”

Foret likes the progress made by residents so far. But she can’t predict what the future holds.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The emporia gazette

Page 17

H ow sh o u l d Re a d i n g s pend $100K ?

Editor’s note: Originally published on June 22, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

United Way leaders want to know how Reading residents want to spend at least $100,000 in donated money.

A meeting Monday at Reading Elementary School began discussions about how the donations would best benefit the community as it rebuilds from the May 21 EF-3 tornado.

Jami Reever, executive director of the United Way of the Flint Hills, said they have received about $75,000 in donations and another United Way chapter has raised $25,000. Reever said other chapters across the state may also have additional money to donate.

Reading Mayor Lonnie Atchison said citizens would like a new community center. He said the town needs a venue that can host community celebrations.

“We need something for Girl Scout and Boy Scout meetings, birthday parties and family reunions,” he said. “We also need some place for meetings. The school will eventually kick us out to get ready for the school year and the church will be undergoing repairs.”

Trying to gauge where the needs are, Reever asked if there were a number of people in need of bigger ticket items.

Barbara Schlobohm, Reading public information officer, said most of the basic or essential items are available for residents at the school. She said she hasn’t heard too many requests for major things, other than

Kellen Jenkins/Gazette

Reta Jackson, owner of The Miracle Cafe, asks for clarification on what grants and loans are available for businesses looking to rebuild.

short-term housing. Then again residents who are in need of more expensive items may not be eager to broadcast it, she said.

“We all know everyone,” Schlobohm said. “They probably would not come forward because they know that everyone would know about their situation.”

Steve Burnett, with Kansas East Conference of the United Methodist Church, said they are taking applications for help.

He said they are getting asked for help rebuilding roofs, windows and siding.

Burnett said they hope to soon begin case management.

“We look at not only what needs they have but also what resources they have,” he said. “We try to channel that money to the people that really need it.”

Burnett said typically they convey requests through some sort of long-term recovery group that has a say over donation

money.

That entity here will likely be Reading Community Development. Three members from community development attended a seminar in Greensburg last week. They will share their findings during a meeting at 7 p.m. tonight at the United Methodist Church.

“They will figure out what projects are needed,” Atchison said. “If some lady needs her house painted, she can make that request to them.”

Reever said she would like to serve as part of the community development group to get a better feel for how the United Way money can be distributed.

Schlobohm said the people with Reading Community Development also want residents to start thinking about a vision for the future.

“What do you want Reading to look like in 10, 15 and 20 years,” she said.

Reever said when money came into Greensburg after the 2007 tornado, the initial efforts were on housing, utilities, jobs, child care and medical care. She said they want to help with things like that and filling in gaps.

Atchison said some of it doesn’t apply here. He said money for housing should be a much higher priority than day care.

“People need to understand we’re not Greensburg,” he said. “We are not going to do it their way. We’re not as big. We’re not going to have as much money. We aren’t going to qualify for FEMA. We’re small town farm and working people. If we’re going to take five or six years to rebuild like Greensburg, we’re going to lose our citizens.”

Jeanine McKenna, president and CEO of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, said the reason Greensburg keeps coming up is they are a model.

“We can learn from their mistakes and see what has and hasn’t worked,” she said.

“It’s a model. No one is saying go green like them or do the exact things that they did.

But if it’s a process that worked, let’s not reinvent the wheel.”

At a meeting held at the same time next door, Claire Holmes, field operations supervisor for the SBA, was informing Reading business owners about federal disaster loans.

Home disaster, business physical disaster and economic injury disaster loans are all available. Holmes said she wants to make sure and reach people to encourage them to apply for the loans by the July 26 deadline.

“They are under no obligation to take it, but they can’t get one if they don’t apply,” she said.

Reta Jackson, owner of The Miracle Cafe, is hoping business owners made a decision soon on whether to re-open.

“We need to make plans and decisions,” she said. “We want our town back so we have to have businesses. I ask you to make the decision as soon as possible.

If it’s yes, shout it from the rooftops. If it’s no than at least tell us so we could go from there.”

Jackson said after the meeting that for people that decide to move out of Reading, Reading Community Development could potentially buy up their land and give it to someone else who agrees to build something.

coa d wo rk i n g tirel e ss ly i n re a d i n g Editor’s note: Originally published on May 31, 2011

By Brandy Nance

nance@emporiagazette.com

The green vests being worn by the Lyon County Community Organization Active in Disasters (COAD) members became a common site in Reading following the May 21 tornado that destroyed homes and businesses in Reading.

Mike Dorcey, chair of COAD, said Lyon County’s COAD was patterned after a national model. The group, which is comprised of volunteers, is activated by the county in case of disasters or other events where volunteers will need to be managed.

The COAD group was formed to manage spontaneous unaffiliated volunteers who show up wanting to help during disasters or other events. This management is needed to ensure the volunteers are coordinated and don’t become part of the problem following a disaster.

“History has taught us that people will show up and go into disaster areas and become part of the problem,” Dorcey said.

“The idea is to time volunteers when needed.”

In Reading, COAD was responsible for coordinating all unaffiliated volunteers who showed up wanting to help with clean-up and other efforts following the tornado.

The organization bused volunteers from the Lyon County Extension Office all week, signed them in, issued them ID cards and gave them volunteer assignments in Reading. This ensured a smooth, organized clean-up process.

COAD also manages donated assets such as food, water and other supplies needed after a disaster. If people donate a truckload of water, it may not all be needed in the same day, Dorcey said.

Dorcey said hundreds of volunteers gave their time in Reading — an average of 90 to 100 per day.

“As long as Lyon County and Emergency Management is here, we’re at their

Matt Bristow/Gazette

Rick Frevert, Lyon County emergency management coordinator, talks with Mike Dorcey during the Reading tornado clean up.

disposal,” Dorcey said.

COAD ceased operations Friday at 5 p.m. Anyone wanting to volunteer or do-

nate items for Reading tornado victims should call (620) 699-3827 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

the emporia gazette

Page 18

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

L esson s f ro m G reen s b urg torn ado r ecov ery could aid Readin g Editor’s note: Originally published on June 1, 2011

By Jeremy Shapiro

shapiro@emporiagazette.com

READING — While residents of Reading gathered Tuesday evening to hear what financial resources are available to them, they also got a peek at what life could be like during the tornado recovery process.

Matt Deighton, director of volunteers during the Greensburg tornado recovery effort, didn’t sugar coat some of the difficulties in disaster aftermath. But he also spoke of how a town can rally together to make a consequential comeback.

An EF-3 tornado the evening of May 21 caused large-scale damage in Reading. About 90 homes in Reading suffered damage severe enough that 120 residents have been displaced.

During a Town Hall meeting Tuesday evening at the United Methodist Church, Deighton told roughly 130 people in attendance that part of the recovery effort takes communication and everyone playing well together.

“You can’t get mad at one entity and take your toys and go home,” Deighton said. “Your city officials have got to be the foundation of this community. The decision that they make is going to effect hundreds of individuals for the rest

of their lives.”

Deighton said there will be a point where residents will have the urge to fight one another.

“There’s this huge emotional roller coaster in front of you,” Deighton said.

“You’re going to love and hate each other.”

Deighton showed a slide show with many before and after photos from the 2007 Greensburg tornado. Toward the end of presentation were shots of how far the town has now come with attractive new buildings, national television attention, as well as a wind farm and other environmentally friendly practices.

“You may say to yourself these things are way too big for Reading, but they are not,” Deighton said.

While specifics about the direction of rebuilding will be talked about later, Tuesday’s focus was informational. It gave a variety of speakers a chance to explain what help they can offer and how to get it.

William Koontz, public information officer for SBA Disaster Assistance, talked about the benefits in applying for a lowinterest low. Loans are available for home owners, renters and small businesses.

The amount of the loan depends on the level of damage and how much insurance money is received. A homeowner can receive up to a $200,000 loan to repair or

Supporting you during the re-building process!

841 Graphic Arts Road Emporia, Kansas • 620-342-1650

replace damaged or destroyed real estate.

Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

It’s free to apply, no collateral is needed and the interest rates for homeowners is 2.69 percent, which can be paid off over as much as 30 years.

“We can make it affordable,” Koontz said.

Residents can be turned down for lack of income or poor credit, but even if that happens, those residents have six additional months to re-apply and may be able to get the loan at that time, Koontz said SBA officials will be at Reading Elementary to help residents apply from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday through June 16.

There is still no word on whether FEMA assistance will become available.

Jim Williams, a project manager with the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, said they are still putting together the facts and figures for Reading and other storms in the state. A certain amount of damage is needed to trigger Federal Emergency Management Agency financial assistance, which generally is a huge boost to recovering communities.

“We are not there yet,” Williams said.

“It’s not known if we will meet the requirement, but we are doing our best.”

SRS, the United States Department of Agricultural Rural Development and Kansas Lions Club also have some limited resources for residents. They will be at Reading Elementary School the next few days to visit with residents.

Because of some thefts, a curfew remains in effect in Reading between sunset and sunrise. Another type of theft residents need to watch out for is unethical contractors and roofers. Jay Perez, with the Better Business Bureau of Kansas Incorporated, said storm chasers attempt to rip off residents.

“Before you agree to anything find out the answers to three questions,” Perez said. “Are they licensed and insured in your jurisdiction? Do they have a permanent address in your area? And have they been in business for more than year?”

Deighton also preached caution, going as far as saying don’t hire the first contractor unless you’ve known them since they were a baby.

“Be extremely cautious with your money,” Deighton said. “Don’t run out and make fast decisions.”

Many in Reading will get together for a T-ball game this evening. Another Town Hall meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday at the church. The Reading City Council is expected to discuss the town’s future for the first time since the tornado.

“God Bless Reading on their way back” • Residential • Industrial • Commercial • Service Calls

• Aerial Reach up to 90’ • Pier Hole Digging up to 44” diameter

601 W. 6th • Emporia, KS 620-342-2176

The emporia gazette

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 19

Read i ng re sid ents at te n d f i r st T-ba ll gam e o f t he summ er Reading’s T-ball coach. “Tonight is for the kids. It’s their recovery, too. We’re going to rebuild and come back stronger than ever.”

By Monica Springer And people came to watch the ball springer@emporiagazette.com game, about 100 in all.

The Reading Lions, consisting of nine READING — The sounds of the crowd first grade and kindergarten students, cheering on kindergartners and first grad- played the Neosho Rapids Jaguars. But ers filled the air in Readthe score didn’t really ing on Wednesday night. matter.

“Tonight is for the At the first T-ball game of “Tonight’s more of a kids. It’s their recovery, the year, people chatted celebration,” Crawford with each other as they told the crowd before too. We’re going to rewatched their children run the start of the game. build and come back around the bases and slide “It’s about our young stronger than ever.” onto the home plate. people, our town and But this year, children our rebuilding.” played T-ball in a field surMisty DeDonder, rounded by broken trees and tattered homes mother of T-ball player Bethany DeDonder, that were ruined when an EF-3 tornado de- said she was not surprised that people ralstroyed much of the town on May 21. lied together to clean up the ball field so The first T-ball game of the year was the game could take place as scheduled. scheduled before the tornado. And after “They worked really, really hard,” Dethe tornado, the community wanted to Donder said. “I’m not at all surprised.” keep the game in Reading and not cancel Despite missing some practice time or reschedule it. because of the storm, Misty DeDonder “It’s a symbol of how this storm hasn’t said she was impressed with the team’s got the last word,” said J.T. Crawford, efforts.

Editor’s note: Originally published on June 2, 2011

monica springer/gazette

Reading T-ball players enjoy a game against Neosho Rapids Wednesday night.

“I think they did wonderful,” she said.

The field in Reading looks quite a bit different than it did before the storm. The press box, dug outs and fencing were destroyed by the tornado. Trees were uprooted, leaving holes were the roots used to be, and the trees that are left have broken limbs.

To get the field cleaned up was a large task. Crawford said the field, which is located in the northeast part of town, had pieces of the park strewn across it after the storm, as well as vehicle parts, steel,

screws, nails and other debris.

“It looked like a bomb hit it,” Crawford said.

Reading residents, with the help of volunteers, cleaned up the field by scouring through it, picking pieces of debris.

The field had to be safe so kids could play on it, Crawford said.

While much of the field was destroyed, the building that houses the concession Please see Game, Page 20

Oil & Propane Co., Inc.

Supporting Reading in a Strong Rebuild!!

We are also back up and going at the Reading Card Fueling Site located on Highway 170: Gasoline • Highway Diesel • Farm Diesel

**Accept S & S Fueling cards, Debit and Credit cards.

Home deliveries also available of Gas, Diesel, Bio-Diesel, Lubricants and Propane!!!

2608 W Hwy 50 • 620-342-2835

HOSTESS BRANDS COMPANIES Supporting you and your family during this time of change and rebuilding.

1525 Industrial Rd • Emporia

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 20

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

A N S W E R I NG THE CALL EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 3, 2011

BY BRANDY NANCE

nance@emporiagazette.com

READING — A church group out of Sun City answered the call when Youth Pastor Talena Martin was awakened with a call to go to Reading to donate supplies and money.

Martin said she was awakened by the Lord with a call to go to Reading to donate following the EF-3 tornado that afflicted the town on May 21. She had never heard of Reading before, she said.

Martin, who is the youth pastor at Fathers House of Worship in Sun City, which is 90 miles southwest of Wichita, said she called around to organizations to help and each one told her money would go to Joplin. She kept getting prompts that she needed to go to Reading. She had all kinds of reasons why she couldn’t go including lack of time. But, she said, the Lord kept prompting her and she sprung into action.

Even though the group faced several challenges prior to going to Reading, they made it and pulled in with a truckload of supplies for residents on Thursday.

“The Lord brought us here,” Martin

GeoTech Inc., is looking forward to seeing the Community of Reading coming back better than before!

GeoTech Inc. Land Surveyors

Serving the Area since 1984 Steven S. Brosemer, Owner 1512 W 6th Ave. • Emporia

www.geotechinc.net

620-342-7491

“Land Surveying Tailored to Your Needs.”

said, while at Reading last week.

Martin put a trailer in front of the church, which people filled with supplies.

She also collected monetary donations for Reading — about $1,000 worth. She, along with several church members, drove the 4 1/2 hours Thursday to deliver the money and supplies to Reading. They spray painted their mission on the side of the white trailer. The trailer indictated that they were Reading-bound. Supplies included everything from toilet paper to food and cleaning supplies.

“The Lord just made the way,” Martin said.

GAME From PAGE 19 stand and restrooms survived the storm. The bleachers also survived, although the top row of one set of bleachers is twisted up.

Crawford said it took about five or six days of cleaning to get the field ready to be played on.

“This means a lot for the community,” Crawford said. “When a ball game happens everybody shows up.”

Holly French, whose daughter McKenna is on the T-ball team, said before the game that she hopes people are inspired.

“The kids are looking forward to it,” French said.

The kids were surprised before the game by Captain Jack Sparrow, a Johnny-Depp look alike who works out of Kansas City.

“I’m sorry for your loss,” he said in full pirate costume, including dreadlocks that hung to his back. He also said he hoped the game brought hope to people before he threw the first pitch.

The Reading T-ball team consists of: Greta Crawford; Taylor Pringle; Sierra Demsey; Jax Bowers; Bethany DeDonder; Hannah Jones; Dallie Senft; McKenna French; and Brett Malcolm.

FARM & RANCH SUPPLY

Here to help you with all your Rebuilding Needs.

“Celebrating 50 years of service” 2611 West Hwy 50 • Emporia (620) 342-5502 • (800) 800-7505 Store Hours: Mon. - Fri.: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sat.: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. www.bluestemfarmandranch.com

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The emporia gazette

Page 21

the emporia gazette

Page 22

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

ro b erts visits rea d i ng

Partnering Together to Nurture the Land!

monica springer/gazette

Lonnie Atchison, mayor of Reading, visits with Pat Roberts on June 3.

Editor’s note: Originally published on June 6, 2011

By Monica Springer

springer@emporiagazette.com

READING — U.S. Senator Pat Roberts visited Reading on Friday and spoke to local residents about how the town is recovering.

Roberts, R-Kansas, said when a powerful tornado comes through a small town it wreaks havoc on the town.

Roberts said it’s very difficult to pull essential services that people are used to together after a storm.

“That just takes a while,” Roberts said.

“It’s very exacerbated.”

It still is not known whether Reading will qualify for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency after an EF-3 tornado destroyed much of the town on May 21.

Angie Morgan, deputy director of the Kansas Department of Emergency Management, said there’s a 30-day deadline to assess whether there is sufficient uninsured loss to qualify for FEMA assistance.

Morgan said they will likely ask for a 30day extension.

There has to be an uninsured loss of $3.4 million to qualify for FEMA aid.

Roberts said that waiting period is difficult for the town. Often, it’s a sign of whether people want to come back and re-build, Roberts said. He referred to the waiting period that residents of Reading are going through as purgatory.

Meanwhile, homeowners in Reading can qualify for low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration.

On Friday afternoon, Scott Briggs, chairman of the Lyon County Commission, said crews had hauled 1,785 loads to the landfill.

Roberts also visited with a barbershop owner in Reading who is offering $5 hair cuts.

The barbershop is fine, but it shares a wall with City Hall, which was damaged in the tornado.

“It shows you the uniqueness of what they’re going through,” Roberts said.

Roberts said his office is working with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran’s office, as well as with U.S. Rep. Lynn Jenkins.

“We’ll have three staffs trying to be of help (to Morgan) and all the local folks here to see if we can’t sort this thing out.

It’s a tough job,” Roberts said. “One of the things we have to figure out is who’s coming back and who isn’t.”

Roberts said it’s not fair to compare the Reading tornado with other tornadoes that have damaged or destroyed Kansas towns.

Some of the buildings in Reading are still standing but have enough structural damage that the structures will have to be torn down.

“You’re still going to have to go through the same kind of work and effort to restore the essential services you have to have to be a viable community,” Roberts said. “There are some things that folks are eligible for but there are thresholds to it. Sometimes that’s fair and sometimes it isn’t.”

Roberts said he wants to make sure that everything is considered.

“We’re looking for damages,” Roberts said.

Roberts said he respected the courage of the Reading residents.

“These people were enjoying a wonderful life in a rural community that was starting to come back,” Roberts said.

“And boom, this hits. Nobody expects that’s going to happen to our community, but it does.”

Helping you face your challenges.

Encouraged by the remarkable resilience of the Reading Community as they rebuild.

1744 County Rd F Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-5000 • 888-753-0103

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 23

RE ADING DOESN’ T QUALIFY FOR SOME FEMA AID

government to get a water tower. Right now there’s nothing to replace one of them. ... That’s where the FEMA money The Associated Press would come in use if we could get it.”

The tornado, which rolled over KANSAS CITY, MO. — The night before Reading late Saturday, May 21, killed a mammoth tornado knocked out Jop- 53-year-old Don Chesmore, who was in lin, killing more than 150 people and a mobile home that flipped. The storm laying waste to a third of the southwest also caused about $1.15 million in damMissouri city, another tornado ripped age to homes in Reading, Watson said. through a small central Kansas town, She said 26 homes were destroyed, causing extensive damage and killing and another 30 homes had substantial one person. damage. But that’s not enough to meet While millions of dollars from the FEMA’s threshold for the Individual AsFederal Emergency Management sistance Program, which requires the Agency are expected to flow into Jop- town to have had about 100 uninsured lin to help with the massive devastation homes destroyed, Watson said. there, the residents of tiny Reading, The state has also been evaluating Kan., population about 230, will not get whether Reading would be eligible for one type of FEMA disaster aid, and it’s FEMA’s Public Assistance Program for still unclear if the town will qualify for a its school, and other public buildings, second variety of FEMA assistance. which sustained about $1.13 million in Sharon Watson, spokeswoman for initial damages. Damage to the water the Kansas Division of Emergency Man- tower was not included in that initial agement, which partners with FEMA amount. Under the public program, to administer disaster aid, said Read- FEMA requires that the state, based on ing residents do not qualify for FEMA’s its population, have $3.4 million in damIndividual Assistance Program, which ages.

Watson said 10 public would include money to buildings were destroyed, cover uninsured losses or “I’m just flat worn another four had substanexpenses for such things out. You get a lot tial damage and seven as temporary housing, of groups coming in more were damaged but home repair and rewere “inhabitable.” placement of household and shaking hands, She said the state has items. but none of them been evaluating damages It was still unclear actually help you. elsewhere that came in Friday if Reading would after the tornado and qualify for the agency’s could be considered part Public Assistance Program, which would include money for of the same storm system, and could repairs to Reading’s damaged elemen- make the town eligible for the public astary school, other public buildings and sistance money.

“New damages have come in which infrastructure.

“We know the numbers are not will be applied, and we are continuing where they need to be for individual to get new information in which could assistance,” Watson said. “We are still bring us to the level we need to ask for a evaluating the numbers for the public federal declaration,” she said.

The Public Assistance Program assistance. ... We are close to the federal threshold, but more preliminary would include 75 percent of the uninsured costs from recovery and repair damage estimates are needed.”

She said a “main resource” for Read- for public buildings, non-profits and ing residents would be low-interest infrastructure. State and local govloans from the Small Business Admin- ernments then provide the remaining 25 percent. FEMA’s regional office in istration.

Reading Mayor Lonnie Atchison, Kansas City did not return calls seekwho’s retired from the U.S. Navy and ing comment.

Atchison and his wife have been raiswhose own uninsured home was heavily damaged in the May 21 tornado, said ing their two grandchildren, but sent any FEMA assistance would be “tremen- them to live with relatives after the tornado severely damaged their home. For dously important” for the town.

Apart from the school, which lost now, he and wife are living in a relative’s its roof in the storm and also has water home in town.

“I’m just flat worn out,” he said. “You damage, a major concern is Reading’s water tower, he said. The 500,000-gal- get a lot of groups coming in and shaklon tower shifted a few feet in the EF-3 ing hands, but none of them actually tornado. Atchison said it’s unclear who help you.

“It seems to me like, oh, we hear would pay to replace the tower it if that the USDA, Commerce Department and becomes necessary.

“We’re scared to death about that,” things like that, say ‘We’re here. You Atchison said. “We’d have to go beg- need to apply for grants.’ But God only ging, borrowing or stealing from the knows if you’ll get them,” he said.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 13, 2011

Marion National Bank

is your home town team & we are here to help YOU! • Checking Accounts • Saving & Time Deposits • Loan Products • 24 Hour Banking Let our friendly staff help you with your banking needs!

Marion National Bank bankwithmnb.com

1448 Industrial Road Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-0200

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 24

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

DON AT I O N S P O URING I N TO R E A D I NG EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 17, 2011

BY BRANDY NANCE

nance@emporiagazette.com

READING — Donations are pouring in from all over as Reading tries to pick up the pieces after the May 21 tornado that tore through the town.

The Reading City Council held a meeting Thursday night to talk about a variety of issues including donations being given to the town to help with tornado relief. Gene Ramsey, mayor of Ottawa, presented the city council with checks for Reading for the playground from the City of Ottawa and a check from the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce.

“We feel that Reading may have been overlooked a little bit over Joplin,” Ramsey said.

Barbara Schlobohm, public information officer for Reading, said there is money being raised all over in the name of Reading from dinners to other fundraising activities.

Reading also received a donation from Reading, Mass., in the amount of $5,000 to help re-build the ball diamond. Reading has only one ball diamond and it was

destroyed in the tornado. The Kansas City Royals Alumni Group contacted Reading as well and offered to donate to the town.

Those in attendance at the meeting decided they wanted the donations to go to the park when received.

Jami Reever, executive director of the United Way of the Flint Hills, cleared up some rumors as to where the money raised for the people of Reading will be going.

“The money is going to the people of the community,” Reever said, adding that the money will be available for residents who need things such as repairing homes, cars and medical bills.

In other matters: ✦ Schlobohm talked about a grant available to homeowners whose homes are in need of rehabilitation following the tornado. The grant is for homeowner occupied homes only and for homes that are still standing. ✦ There will be a lunch on Saturday at the fire station in Reading by Lebo Baptist Church. ✦ The store will be open on Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. Residents are asked to pick up their own free supplies and to Please see Donations, Page 25

We’re here to help!

We Can Rent Anything You Need To Have A Beautiful Home & Lawn!

For Rent or Sale • Stump grinders • Tillers • Airless paint sprayers

• Aerators • Overseeders • Power rakes

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

EmPORiA

3000 W. 18Th AvENuE Ph. 620-343-8646 Pizza, Chicken, Salad Bar, ice Cream

Heavy duty equiPment

Buffet, Delivery or Carry-out

and mucH more! mowers Push or riding

First Start Rental Sales & Service

Rentals of all types of equipment M-F- 7:30-5:00 SAT- 8:00 - 12:00

Check out one of our two locations: 2026 W. 6th Ave • Emporia, KS (620) 343-0983 115 Main • New Strawn, KS (620) 364-1983

www.firststartrental.com

www.firststartrental.com

Buffet hours: mon.-Fri.: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. & 5 p.m.-8 p.m.

11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Weekends

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 25

DONATIONS From PAGE 24 sign in. Use the southeast gym door. ✦ The Reading Community Development group will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the United Methodist Church in Reading. ✦ On June 25, there will be a day full of activities to benefit Reading. The day starts with a walk/run with registration starting at 6:30 a.m. and the walk/run beginning at 7:30 a.m.; at noon there will be bands, raffles, pony rides, bouncy toys and vehicle displays; at 6 p.m. there will be a free fish/hot dog dinner; and 9ish, there will be fireworks. The event is free and donations will be accepted. ✦ A school supply barbecue will be from 5 to 7 p.m.

July 6 at the shelter house in Reading. The Wyandotte County Kiwanis have committed to raise the funds for Reading kids. ✦ The final noon meal will be provided for the community from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 26. The Emporia Presbyterian Church will be hosting. ✦ A Reading housing fair will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. June 25 at the Reading United Methodist Church to provide information to Reading residents on home financing, energy efficiency, credit counseling/homebuyer education and other housing information. The event is presented by the USDA Rural Development, Kansas Housing Resource Corporation, FHLBank Topeka; and the Mennonite Housing Rehabilitation Services.

For more information contact the USDA Rural Development at (620) 365-2901.

Reading Residents, Our Thoughts & Prayers Are With You!

See Clark Carpet & Tile for All of your...

Poehler Mercantile

WINDOW TREATMENTS

ANTIQUE MALL SPEND THE DAY IN THE HEART OF EMPORIA ANTIQUE COUNTRY!

Quality Antiques in a Beautiful Historic Building.

Kl\j[Xp$JXkli[Xp ('$, Jle[Xp ($,

-)'$*+($0'0)

*'( :fdd\iZ`Xc <dgfi`X# BJ

7DJ?GK;I

CLARK CARPET & TILE, INC. Pat and Lori Clark, Owners

2011

Free estimates • 1 blk west of UPS 343-6883 • 3302 West 6th

www.clarkcarpettile.com

Countertops • Flooring • Tile See all of our products at www.clarkcarpettile.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 26

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

SBA TO E XTEND OPERATIONS EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 15, 2011 Special to The Gazette

Wayne Bell, district director of the U. S. Small Business Administration’s Kansas District Office, announced today that SBA will keep the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Reading open until June 30 to meet the needs of residents and businesses who were affected by the May 21 tornadoes. SBA is also changing the times the center will be open, he said.

“SBA opened the Disaster Loan Outreach Center on June 1 to meet individually with residents and business owners who suffered damage from the tornadoes,” said Bell. “We are extending the center’s length of operation to give individuals and business owners every opportunity to meet with our representatives in person to discuss their individual circumstances,” he added.

“SBA customer service representatives will continue to be available to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” he continued. Bell encouraged

anyone who has suffered damage as a result of the tornadoes to visit one of the centers before they close. You don’t need an appointment to visit the center.

The outreach center is located at the following location and will now be open on the days and times indicated: Reading Elementary School, 424 First St. Mondays — Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Closes: Thursday, June 30 “Low-interest Federal disaster loans are available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, nonprofit organizations whose property was damaged or destroyed by the tornadoes,” said Bell.

Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace their damaged or destroyed primary residence. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Businesses of any size and private non-profit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. SBA can also

lend additional funds to help homeowners and business owners with the cost of making improvements that protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses only, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling SBA toll-free at (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba. gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www. sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877-8339.

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is July 26, 2011. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 27, 2012.

For more information, visit SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov.

Thinking of the Reading Community During Your Rebuild!

WOOD CHAIN LINK VINYL

Since 1979

ORNAMENTAL DOG KENNELS FREE ESTIMATES

A BEAUTIFULLY FENCED YARD BY Howard Wullschleger • John Wullschleger SALES • INSTALLATION • REPAIR • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

342-9492 1769 Road G • Emporia

www.midlandfence-kansas.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 27

O R P H A N S N E E D HOMES EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 18, 2011

BY BRANDY NANCE

nance@emporiagazette.com

Two Reading orphans, Hickory and Zeke, are still in need of homes.

Hickory and Zeke, both cats, were orphaned in the May 21 Reading tornado.

They now reside at the Emporia Animal Shelter, 1216 Hatcher St., waiting for somebody to open their homes and give them a forever place to stay.

Peggy Derrick, manager of the Emporia Animal Shelter, said the two were found in Reading a day or two after the tornado along with several other cats and dogs. All but Hickory and Zeke have been claimed by their owners.

Zeke Zeke is a senior adult male cat yellow in color. When he came into the shelter he was cut up pretty bad, Derrick said.

“He had lots of cuts and scrapes,” she said.

Zeke is a friendly cat, only asking for a lap and a safe place to sleep. He was curled up in a towel at the animal shelter this week. He is neutered as well. Zeke would do best in a calm home where he can rest and be loved.

Hickory Hickory is a young cat, probably less than a year old. His upbeat, patient and playful personality would make him good with kids, Derrick said. Earlier this week, Hickory was in a condo cage in the hallway of the animal shelter meowing to anybody who would listen and charming visitors as they went by.

“Hickory would love a home with kids,” Derrick said.

The adoption fee for Zeke and Hickory, as well as all the cats at the Emporia Animal Shelter, has been waived until the end of December. The shelter is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday. Weekend adoption appointments are available. To reach the shelter call 340-6345.

“You can do whatever you have to do... and sometimes even better than you think you can!”

- Jimmy Carter

Be Blessed... and God Speed

1632 Industrial Road • Emporia 7 Dragon Desserts AT&T Wireless Bath & Body Works Buckle Claire’s Boutique Coach’s Bar & Grill Crystal Nails Flinthills 8 Theatre Flinthills Learning Center GNC Hibbett Sports

jcpenney KS Drivers License Maurices Newman Express Care Sears Sherry’s Dance Workshop Sutherlands Lumber US Air Force US Army US Marines US Navy

620-342-4631 • www.theflinthillsmall.com

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 28

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

RE AD I N G R E B U I L D DAY EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 22, 2011

BY BRANDY NANCE

nance@emporiagazette.com

Reading will be full of activities Saturday during the Reading Rebuild Day. The event will run all day and many activities are planned. The day full of activities will directly benefit Reading.

The day starts with a walk/run with registration starting at 6:30 a.m. and the walk/run beginning at 7:30 a.m. The event will begin at the Reading Methodist Church. Any donation is accepted.

Registrations will be taken the same day at the church at 6:30 a.m.

At noon there will be free food, raffles every hour, a silent auction. You do not need to be present to win the raffles and auctions. There will be funnel cakes and sno cones from Tropical Sno as well.

In addition, there will be vendors, the Rolling Thunder Military Truck Display and an emergency vehicle display including helicopters.

The Girl Scouts will be providing carnival games, the Emporia Arts Council will do face painting and the Emporia Zoo will have an animal display. Other animals will be on hand as well.

At 9 p.m., the Reading Tightwad Bank will provide a fireworks display.

All proceeds and donations will go to various funds set up at the Reading Tightwad Bank to save and rebuild Reading.

The day also will include several bands. ✦ Noon — Wayne Stoll, Fiddler and Pickers from Reading. ✦ 1 p.m. — J.T. Crawford and Tammy Patterson from Reading. ✦ 2 p.m. — Ryan Durst from Lebo. ✦ 3 p.m. — The Basement Pickers from Emporia and Reading. ✦ 4 p.m. — Via Christus from Olpe and Emporia and Sacred Heart Catholic Church and St. Joseph Catholic Church. ✦ 5 p.m. — Lee Muller with Spare Parts from Americus. ✦ 6 p.m. — Kapos from First Baptist Church. ✦ 7 p.m. — Between the Lines from Emporia. ✦ 8 p.m. — Wood Valley Pickers from Topeka.

Bring lawn chairs as seating will be limited. For more information contact Melanie Dicks-Pritchard at (620) 6993328.

We’re here when you need us!

Autobody - Mufflers - Brakes Mechanical Repair & Maintenance 1221 Industrial Rd. 620-342-7713 800-289-5652

FREE

Body Shop Estimates

Proudly Serving Emporia and the Surrounding Area Since 1968

Our thoughts are with you as you rebuild your community and your lives.

702 Commercial, Suite 1-B Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-7665 Fax: 620-342-7650

- Your Local Independent Agent • Auto • Home • Farm • Business • Life Insurance

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The emporia gazette

Proudly serving the Reading Community

The Salvation Army 327 Constitution Emporia, KS 66801

(620) 342-3093

Page 29

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Page 30

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

STILL RECOVERING EDITOR’S NOTE: Originally published on June 22, 2011

BY BRANDY NANCE

nance@emporiagazette.com

One month after the May 21 EF-3 tornado ripped through Reading, 53 of the town’s 101 homes have been torn down with two more slated to be torn down this week.

The post office also has been torn down as well as the town’s cafe, the Miracle Cafe.

The grain elevator was being torn down Tuesday. The park and all-veterans memorial are all but destroyed.

All that remains of the town’s business structures are a bank building, which was getting evaluated Tuesday and a building across the street which houses Heads, Hands and Feet, a beauty shop owned by Richard and Amanda Heathman.

Town Hall also remains, but it isn’t being used because of structural damage right now. The gasoline filling pumps have been brought online but natural gas is still off for many of the remaining homes.

“You can get a haircut and gasoline,” said Barbara Schlobohm, public information officer for Reading.

Schlobohm said most people are in the process of trying to figure out housing so they can return to Reading. Those whose homes are able to be rehabilitated have

started the process.

“A lot of homes were not insurable,” Schlobohm said, adding that this factor has created many problems and challenges for residents.

One month after the tornado hit, the adrenaline is wearing off, Schlobohm said.

“Reality is setting in,” she said. “People are becoming stressed and depressed.

We’re asking people to see their doctors and seek help.”

Schlobohm said many people are looking to re-build in Reading. The Miracle Cafe will be re-built as well as the grain elevator.

“Most of the people realize that this is an opportunity to have a new and improved Reading,” Schlobohm said.

Schlobohm added the school is getting ready for a new school year and will be open next school year.

There is not, however, any news on the post office as to whether it will return or not. Schlobohm said the post office delivered mail from Admire over to Lebo and the northern part of Lebo.

“It served a large area even through it was located in a small town,” she said.

Getting back to business Richard and Amanda Heathman are getting back to business in their beauty shop Please see Recover, Page 31

Stanley Jewelry has been helping the community make memories for over 61 years.

We support the people of Reading as they rebuild on memories from yesterday and create new memories for tomorrow and the years to come.

Supermarket of Fine Wines

Stanley Jewelry is more than just a jewelry store!

619 Commercial • Emporia, Ks. Ph. (620) DIAMOND

Liquor • Cordials • Coolers • Beer 2716 W. 12th St., Emporia, KS 66801 • 620-343-7414

THE EMPORIA GAZETTE

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Page 31

RECOVER From PAGE 30 in Reading.

“People have started coming back,” Richard Heathman said. “It’s been a month since their last haircut.

It’s slowed down quite a bit.”

Heathman’s building was heavily damaged by the tornado, but the tornado spared the business part and a majority of the home part, which is located in the building behind the beauty shop. Heathman said he had only been open two months before the tornado struck.

The family had started renovating another part of the building prior to the tornado. That part of the building is now gutted.

Weathering the storm Richard Heathman recalled riding out the storm in the basement of their home. Prior to the storm, the family was out fishing at a low-water bridge.

They came home when they saw a storm approaching, not knowing what was about to unfold. Before the storm hit, he sent his wife and kids to the basement and then noticed the trees were starting to lean and he saw swirls. When he saw part of a roof fly by he then headed to the basement himself.

“Looking back, it sounded like a jet plane pushing a Mac truck through the living room,” he said.

Heathman said he and his family plans on staying in Reading but is saddened that the town is nearly destroyed.

“The whole town is damaged,” he said, through misty eyes. “It’s gone. Everything is affected.”

You can depend on us night or day!

That’s the Jones way!

620-342-8343

Get back up to

mmm$j^khijedifbkiWkjeXeZo$Yec

Relax it’s Rheem

TM

$1,500*

The worst is over — the best is yet to come.

Good Luck Reading!

?#97H

Rheem® Prestige Series Home Comfort Systems are energy efficient for year round savings & comfort!

• Up to $1,000 Consumer Cash Back from Rheem • Up to $500 in Federal Tax Credits

620.342.2613

• Save on Monthly energy bills all year long

Praying for you & your families during the rebuilding journey.

2479 Road M • Emporia, Kansas • 620.342.8343

Jesse

After Hours/Weekends 620.341.9111 Coupon & Info In Feist Beth & Jesse Wilson

2003 2004 2006 2007 2008 8;IJ

>; 8;IJ E< J

BODY SHOP

2011 2007 2008 8;IJ

>; 8;IJ E< J

AutO Service

2011

the emporia gazette

Page 32

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Tightwad Bank

The directors and officers of Tightwad Bank, formerly known as Reading State Bank, appreciate the patronage of our customers. We respect the pride and heritage of the community and know that the strong-willed residents of Reading will rise above adversity and rebuild their town. It will be a time of opportunity, the opening and closing of doors, with dreams and ideas reaching reality. It takes a little rain to make a rainbow!

Temporary Location:

A FULL SERVICE BANK

131 W. Market Street, Suite A P.O. Box 58 Osage City, KS 66523 (North end of Osage Medical Plaza)

785-528-2880