It is the week of January 22. I am sitting in the AASV office in Perry, Iowa. Most of Iowa is just starting to thaw from a brutal week of winter weather that saw blizzard conditions, high temperatures below zero, frigid winds, and blowing snow. An old-time Midwest winter. The ground is snow-covered with drifts and piles higher than my head. The sky is cloudy, it is misting, and there has been dense fog most of the day. A very somber type of day that matches my general mood.
This is the first time I have been back to Perry since the tragic school shooting on January 4, 2024, that left 6 people wounded and claimed the lives of a sixth-grade student and the high school principal, Dan Marburger. Numerous acts of bravery, including that of Principal Marburger who confronted the 17-year-old shooter, have been credited with saving lives. Obviously, this was not the first school shooting (there have reportedly been at least 3 prior to January 18 of this year) and, regrettably, will likely not be the last.
Even though I am not from Perry, this tragedy hit close to home for me. This town has long been the home of AASV. I have been coming here frequently for the last 18 years. I have gotten to know some of the locals, and I feel I have a better than passing sense for the community. So, I felt the sorrow emanating from the residents. Sue Schulteis, AASV associate director, and Tom Burkgren, retired AASV executive director, have lived in Perry for decades. They raised their families here and are active in the community. Their kids went to school in Perry under the watchful eye of Principal Marburger and with his kids. I am sure they feel the loss way more acutely than I do.
I noticed the blue ribbons and “Perry Strong” signs scattered around town symbolizing the unity and resilience that arises from these types of events. While I was waiting at the local bank, I noticed a group of big furry yellow dogs wearing blue vests and their handlers walking down the street not far from the school. I mentioned it to the bank teller, and she said they were probably in town to provide some support for folks as the school children began returning to the classroom this week. That human-animal bond is innate and real. I did, however, think that pack needed a beagle.
On the news last night, they showed the kids as they walked past the piles of snow near the school. Despite the sadness, and likely some trepidation, I am sure they were feeling, it was heartening to see that most of the kids were smiling and leading their parents along the way. It appeared at least that they were anxious to see their friends and get back to a “normal” routine.
I know that this tragedy will be a couple of months old by the time you read this article, but I wanted to take an opportunity to share with you some of my thoughts about our little place in the world. I also wanted you to know that the AASV Board of Directors approved a contribution to a fund established to assist the community and support those affected by the shooting. Perry residents are hurting and stunned right now, as any tight-knit community would be, but I am confident it will rebound. Perry is strong. It has been, as Sue would say, Perrydise, and it will be again.
Harry Snelson, DVM
Executive Director