FLORA — What could have been a disastrous prom for Flora High School students Saturday night was saved by a determined and helpful community that jumped at the challenge when severe storms swept through the area.

According to Flora Police Chief John Nicholson, first the promenade had to be moved inside because of the weather.

Nicholson says the kids and parents were disappointed as the outdoor promenade is always looked forward to by all and a large amount of time is put into getting all the different vehicles ready.

Then with the gym packed with students, parents and friends and family, power was knocked out by a strong storm that went through the area just as the actual prom was to start.

With everyone waiting and hoping that the darkened gym would soon be re-powered and the kids could have their prom, Nicholson was trying to coordinate with the police dept, city crews and high school officials to get some sort of timeline as to when power would be back on.

He says the estimated time was an hour or more and there was sense of dread that Prom may be ruined.

Nicholson then placed a call to the Flora Rescue/ESDA unit and they arrived at the high school within 15 minutes, bringing lights and generators.

Right on top of ESDA’s arrival Kent Brinkley from Brinkley Amusements arrived and brought another generator to power up anything else needed such as the DJ booth.

The 2016 Flora High School Prom was saved. Nicholson thanked everyone for their great act of community service, saying he loves his small town and its big heroes.