Several activities and ceremonies are planned during the next week to bring the community together to support one another at the one-year anniversary of the deadly tornado that devastated Indian Lake and Logan County on March 14, 2024.
Friday morning, March 14, begins with a “Stronger Than the Storm” breakfast hosted by Indian Lake Schools for area first responders and community members.
The meal begins at 9 a.m. at Indian Lake High School. Reservations were due by March 10.
“The event will serve to show our gratitude for those who have helped our community recover. In addition, we will highlight some of the stories of affected students and staff and changes to our facilities that came about because of storm damage,” school officials said.
Friday evening, an “Anchored in Hope” community remembrance event is set for 7 p.m. at the ILHS auditorium, with a number of speakers planned and refreshments to be served. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Sunday, March 16, the Village of Lakeview comes together to honor the lives of Darla Williams and Marilyn Snapp who were lost in the tornado. The ceremony begins at 2 p.m. at the Lakeview Firehouse, 540 N. Main St., Lakeview.
First responders and Village of Lakeview utility crews will be honored as well “for their endless efforts to protect and restore the village,” officials said.
Light refreshments and cookies will be served by the Amvets Ladies Auxiliary.
For the Friday evening Anchored in Hope ceremony, Robin Media has prepared a slide show of photos from the recovery and conducted interviews with approximately seven survivors. The slide show will be played as the public arrives in the auditorium.
A Facebook page called “Anchored in Hope” has been created for people to share their stories of the tornado. The link is: https://www.facebook.com/share/15xrDgXfQG/?mibextid=wwXIfr or you can go to FB and search for “Anchored in Hope.”
The program will open with an introduction and prayer offered by Logan County Emergency Management Agency Director Helen Norris and Logan County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Ben Vollrath.
Other local leaders who will provide remarks include Logan County Commissioners, Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson, Russells Point Police Chief Joe Freyhof, Russells Point Mayor John Huffman, Indian Joint Fire District Chief Mark Gibson, Lakeview Mayor Elaine Fagan-Moore, Indian Lake EMS Chief Josh Strayer, Logan County Sheriff Randy Dodds and Lakeview Fire Department officials.
A moment of silence will be observed, and Tara Cascioli from Indian Lake Community Church will provide a closing prayer.
Mental health support personnel will be available on site for anyone in attendance during the event as well.