On June 14, 2025, lives changed forever in Triadelphia, Valley Grove and throughout our region.

In a matter of minutes late that Saturday evening, a catastrophic flash flood tore through neighborhoods, swept away homes and vehicles, and left devastation unlike anything that community ever had experienced.

When the water finally receded, nine people were gone. Dozens of families faced the heartbreaking task of rebuilding not only their homes, but their lives.

A year later, that pain remains.

There are empty seats at family gatherings. There are birthdays that arrive without a loved one present. There are homes and businesses that never again will be in use. There are constant reminders of the terrible night when everything changed.

But there is another story that must be told — the story of a community that did not let tragedy have the final word.

In the immediate aftermath of the flood, the Ohio Valley did what it always does — show up when disaster strikes. Volunteers came with shovels, wheelbarrows and gloves. Churches opened their doors. Neighbors checked on neighbors. Donations arrived from across the region. Local organizations, state agencies, relief groups and countless individuals gave their time, energy and resources to help families and businesses begin the long road back.

Over the past year, residents have continued clearing debris, repairing homes, replacing what was lost and helping one another navigate the recovery process. The rebuilding has been both physical and emotional. Yet through it all, the people of Triadelphia and Valley Grove have continued moving forward together.

That spirit is perhaps best reflected in the monument taking shape in Triadelphia , which is set to be dedicated today, June 13.

The memorial bears the names of those who lost their lives. A tree at its center adorned with a silver ribbon represents the community’s endurance as it was inundated with floodwater. A cardinal perched on a branch serves as a reminder that life continues and that those who have passed are not forgotten. Perhaps most importantly, the monument also honors the volunteers and helpers who answered the call when their neighbors needed them most.

The monument is not merely about remembering what happened. It is about remembering how the community rallied in response.

As we mark this solemn anniversary, our thoughts remain with the families of the nine victims whose absence continues to be felt every day.

Michael Bokanovich.

Travis Creighton.

Lisa McMasters.

Sandra Parsons.

Jesse Pearson.

Kyleigh Shotton.

Parker Shotton.

Michael Veronis.

Connie Veronis.

Their names deserve to be remembered. Their stories deserve to be told. Their families deserve the community’s continued support.

And as the community gathers this weekend to reflect, let us also recognize the thousands of acts of kindness that followed the tragedy — the volunteers, the first responders, churches, businesses, neighbors and strangers who demonstrated the very best of the Ohio Valley. People gave of themselves to help others. That’s what true love is all about.

One year later, the scars remain. But so does the strength — in fact, it’s stronger.

And that strength will continue carrying this community forward.