Our derecho-scarred city will recover

As I drove around Cedar Rapids recently, amid the impressive piles of snow - my mind turned toward spring. But, right alongside those hopeful thoughts, are thoughts of what awaits us in Cedar Rapids under all that snow.

Piles of brush. Damaged green spaces.

Homes and businesses still awaiting much-needed repairs.

When the snow melts, our city will show some substantial scars.

During the Flood of 2008, it seemed like there would be no way forward. No easy way to fix our city. And the truth was, there wasn't an easy way to clean up after the flood. But we did it all the same, block by block, week after week. And the way forward was better than anything I could have imagined.

I've never been more proud of my town. Not just a comeback, but a leap forward - making Cedar Rapids a more beautiful, innovative, and resilient place to live - thanks to the hard work of good people in every corner of our city.

That is what I'll bear in mind when I see the derecho damage emerge in the spring.

Block by block, our city will recover. Whether it's a new sign or siding, flowering trees or fences, we'll roll up our sleeves and get down to the hard work of restoration. And my family and I plan to be right there alongside you because we love this city and are hopeful for its future.

See you in the spring!

Lindsay Talsness

Cedar Rapids