Fountain City mayor thanks students for flood relief

The following letter was sent to Campus Ministry by Mayor Jerry Kafer to thank the more than 70 volunteer students who helped with sandbagging efforts this past weekend in Fountain City, Wis.

“I am currently the acting mayor of Fountain City and have been losing more than a little sleep worrying about flood preparations. But on Saturday, when two buses rolled into town with energetic and spirited students, my anxiety decreased significantly. Not only did they swell the ranks of volunteers working on the project, but they worked with incredible intensity. There were times some of us supervisors encouraged the volunteers to break for hydration and donuts/cookies, etc., and they just continued working. It was as if they got into a rhythm and didn’t want to get out of it. Because of their incredible efforts, we were able to conclude sandbagging by early afternoon. This after we anticipated it would certainly take the entire weekend.

“I want so very much for you to know the difference these students made in our little community. They were hard-working, energetic and fun to be around. I’m sure their contributions will be long remembered in these parts. They are indeed a testament to their university. And we thank you and them for all they did to help us out in a time of need.”