Athens, Bradford County--A muddy rain boot salutes the streets of downtown Athens

A reminder of what this northern tier town went through one month ago.

Susan Hartley, an attorney in Athens, says, "It is like watching a Si-Fy movie where they sucked all of the people out of the buildings and into space and there are now tumble weeds."

But Governor Tom Corbett is encouraging those people to come back.

He toured downtown Athens Wednesday afternoon.

And through the debris and destruction, finds a reason to rebuild.

Governor Tom Corbett says, "I think there are reasons for it to thrive. We have great industry here now. A lot of businesses have relocated. There are jobs here in Bradford County."

Local attorney Susan Hartley agrees.

And she was pleased to see her governor interested in her town.

Hartley notes, "I was happy he was paying attention. I think he's on point. I think the real issue is how do we make this not happen again?"

Governor Corbett says he is looking into ways to prevent flooding in the future.

A future the people of Athens want to be a bright one.

It's a downtown Susan refuses to give up on and she hopes others share the same outlook.

Hartley adds, "I hope and pray that the other businesses follow suit. I know the other businesses along Main Street are committed to that.

And after spending the day in Athens, Corbett has faith that this devastated town will one day thrive again.

Corbett says, "I think the people of Athens will come back. They have great leadership here. This is their home."