Small community playing a big role in tornado cleanup
BELLEFONTAINE, Ohio (WCMH) — People in Logan County are picking up the pieces after Thursday’s storms left a path of destruction in the area.
The National Weather Service confirmed a deadly EF3 tornado touched down in Logan County.
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People in Lakeview collected supplies on Monday for those in need and swept up debris so the city has a place to hold its town council meeting.
Residents said what’s happening in the aftermath has turned this tragedy into a blessing.
“It reminds us of why we live where we live. We are calling it the lake effect,” Marylyn Coy said.
Coy is one of the dozens volunteering a helping hand in Lakeview. They are collecting supplies for those impacted by the storm. Hundreds of others have come by to donate supplies.
“I just think the lake effect was about winter weather, but it’s not, it’s, but it’s a love in our community to all of these people and it’s helping each other. And, you know, that’s a big reason why you live here,” Coy said.
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Days later the destruction is still impossible to miss. Governor Mike DeWine also declared a state of emergency in Logan and 10 other countries, sending the National Guard to help with cleanup.
Carla Morris is the owner of CJ’s Lakeside Tavern. She was inside her bar at the time of the storm.
“It’s been amazing how many people have just jumped in to help out, no questions,” Morris said.
Morris said the wind took off her roof and windows and she still has no power. She said contractors have stepped in to help her with repairs free of cost.
“Like I told you earlier, what Satan has meant for bad has turned us around for good and for the good of the community,” Morris said.
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Volunteers say days like this remind them why they love living in this community.
“You know, it’s beautiful here. We have the lake. We have all of this nature. But it’s all these humans that you see around us. That’s why we’re here,” Coy said. “We’re going to come back and come back stronger.”
The donation drop-off in Lakeview has moved locations to the Baptist Church on Lake Drive. The American Red Cross and United Way of Logan County also have resources for those in need.
Local churches in the area are also offering warming centers to those in need with the weather getting colder. One of those is the Indian Lake Community Church at 120 Orchard Island Road, which is open until 8 p.m.
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