Clark Mills Unites For Recovery From Tornado

By Lorraine Kinny-Kitchen

On July 24, the Clark Mills Historical Society convened a group of 20 dedicated Clark Mills organization leaders at the Kirkland Senior Center to address the aftermath of the devastating June 22 EF-1 tornado.

The tornado killed three Clark Mills residents and caused widespread property damage in the hamlet.

Representatives from the Clark Mills Fire Department, American Legion Post 26, the Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion, the Kirkland Senior Center, the Clark Mills Volunteer Public Workers, the Clark Mills Methodist Church, the Clinton Kirkland Improvement Corporation and the Clark Mills Historical Society engaged in solution focused discussions.

The group identified glaring and critical needs of the fire department and first responders, and a collective desire to organize a “Clark Mills Strong" community event to foster healing and unity.

Members of every organization committed their time and talent to support these initiatives.

A formal letter is being drafted to initiate the appeal for donations from local businesses, organizations, elected officials and the media.

Generated funds will support the cost of a weather-related warning system, equipment for first responders, assistance in procuring and installing a generator.

Also planned is a community healing event in late summer.

The group will meet again Aug. 7.