On the Scene in Greensburg

With more than 1,500 people displaced by a tornado and scores waiting to return to their homes, Pilgrim Films is on the ground in Greensburg, KS creating a documentary of the destruction and green rebirth of the town. Pilgrim Films Executive Producer Kathryn Takis answered some questions for Planet Green on the anniversary of the tornado.

Q: Leading into the anniversary, what are some of your observations about the people of Greensburg?

A: The people of Greensburg have suffered through one of the worst winters they've had in a long time. People were stuck in their trailers, and throughout the winter, there were no signs of building. But spring has brought a sense of hope. We knew that the people of Greensburg would be excited, but we also have observed a bit of anxiety, both with the anniversary of the tornado coming up and with the national eye being on them. The national attention being placed on them is giving them a sense of hope that outsiders want to become involved in helping them rebuild.

Q: What are some observations you and your team have had leading into the town's high school graduation?

A: The high school forensics (speech and debate) team is at a meet right now, the same event they attended exactly one year ago. The kids were away from their families, as they are now, so they're anxious about leaving town again. Also, last year, a couple of weeks after the tornado, the school leaders wanted to try and create a sense of normalcy for the kids, so they had the graduation ceremony anyway in a tent. It's one example of how far the town has come in a year: from a tent amongst the rubble to President Bush delivering the commencement address, only the second time in his term.

Q: How far along in the process of rebuilding is the town?

A: We're following people who've made a commitment to rebuild green, like the Dixons, and they just moved into their home. And the Reinecke family who also decided to rebuild green, but had financial struggles to do so. It costs more up front, but the payoff is in the back and is worth it, so they see the long term vision and have positive attitudes. But the water tower is up, the town broke ground on the rebuilding of Main Street, and many new homes are in active construction.

Q: You've been with the people of Greensburg for several months now. What is it that you hope people who watch the series will understand about Greensburg and its citizens?

A: With determination, community and a dedication to a vision, people can reach for the stars.

The weekly 13-part series begins in June 2008 on Planet Green.