After a deadly tornado struck Joplin, Mo., residents of the city are determined to return to some sort of normalcy.
Even though many of the residents are still literally picking up the pieces, they are eager to heal. And many have begun this healing through art.
Jo Mueller of the Spiva Center for the Arts in Joplin asked people to send objects and mementos for a planned exhibition that will tell the story of the storm that killed162 people and destroyed or damaged some 7,500 buildings.
The Spiva Center has also mounted an exhibit called "On the Other Side," featuring both professional and amateur artists who have created new work in response to the tornado.
If there's another symbol of healing and hope in the city, look no further than Joplin High School.
Just two days after the storm and with more than half of the high school's classrooms wiped out, superintendent C.J. Huff made a promise that the school would start on time in the fall. And it did, with the new Joplin High in an abandoned department store.
Many in the business community were also determined to return to some sort of normalcy. David Starrett's pharmacy was completely destroyed on that Sunday in May. But just six days later, he had leased a new space, installed shelves, ordered inventory, and opened his doors for business.
Even though emotional and physical scars everywhere, planning for the future is now in high gear. Both St. John's Hospital and Joplin High hope to have new buildings by 2014.
Quotes
"You know, it's an excellent question. In the beginning, I think everyone said, I want to rebuild my house. And now I think people are faced with the reality that what they wanted, you know, their neighborhood and their friends, may not be in that same spot." -Jane Cage, business owner and chairwoman of a citizens.
"We're going to be the first class that graduates from a mall. I mean, I have never heard of anything like that. But, I mean, I guess we're -- there's a first time for everything, so we're just -- we're excited to set the standards high." Emma Cox, student.
Warm Up Questions
1. What is a natural disaster?
2. What is a tornado? How does one form?
3. Where is Joplin, Missouri located? What can you tell about this city from its position on the map?
Discussion Questions
1. The story mentions the process of healing through art. Discuss ways in which Joplin residents are using art and their local art center to heal.
2. How has Joplin's High School become a symbol of hope? Discuss.
3. Have you or a friend ever lived in a town or city that experienced a natural disaster? If so, how did your town or city find ways to heal?
Additional Resources
In Joplin, Mo., Tornado Destruction 'Looks Like an Artillery Barrage'
Joplin Mayor: 'We Haven't Quite Started Rebuilding Yet'
