‘We’re not leaving’: Community shows support for well-loved diner after devastating fire
By Dorissa White
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TONGANOXIE, Kansas (KMBC) — A fire on Friday afternoon destroyed the beloved Flashbacks diner in Tonganoxie, Kansas, as well as the home of its owners, Tuna and Debbie Conrad. The Tonganoxie community is now rallying support.
For years, the diner served as more than just a place to eat; it was a gathering spot, a community hub, and for many, a second home. Tuna Conrad expressed the deep connection they have with the community, saying, “And Tonganoxie, you know. But we’re going to miss them. And I know they’re going to miss us, but we’re not leaving Tonganoxie.”
The Conrads described Flashbacks as their prized possession, and the loss has been deeply felt by those who dined there.
“We’re blessed, we’re really blessed, truly, truly blessed,” they said.
Debbie Conrad shared her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the town and local business owners, saying, “It’s just overwhelming, the gratitude that we have for this town and even the business owners that have reached out to us. You know, you get up every day, you love what you do, but you don’t realize the impact that you have.”
The fire not only destroyed the diner but also the Conrads’ home, making the loss both personal and devastating.
The couple is also known for their generosity, having started a scholarship fund for local high school students to help them attend college. In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe has been created to assist the owners, and an account has been set up at First State Bank for those wishing to contribute to the Flashbacks account.
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