From tragedy, triumph

8/27/2010

The package of emergency aid the state approved this week to help rebuild or replace Lake High School, and keep its classrooms running in the meantime, is the latest response to the tornado that destroyed the school and devastated the surrounding community in early June. The government assistance is needed and warranted.

But even more impressive have been the individual demonstrations of generosity by local residents, businesses, and institutions. They eased the transition for Lake's 450 students, who went back to school this week at a makeshift, temporary site on the campus of Owens Community College.

The Blade, working with WTOL-TV (Channel 11) and BCSN, has been pleased to sponsor a supply drive for the school. Donations came from businesses, individuals, school districts, and colleges throughout northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.

Donors gave furniture, classroom materials and equipment, volunteer labor, and lots of cash. Those contributions, school officials say, will prove essential to help Lake maintain its high academic standards.

Other fund-raising efforts helped Lake students obtain clothes and books. Such generosity might seem surprising amid the dismal local economy - but not to anyone who understands the character of the people of this community.

The permanent Lake High School is expected to reopen in two years. But the football team will open its home season on schedule Sept. 3, with a game in its rebuilt stadium next to the wrecked school. Lake isn't back just yet, but it's getting there nicely.