代表AST Board of Directors, I want to express my concern for all of our members and colleagues in the Midwest region who have been impacted by the recent tornados. Meteorologists for the National Weather Service have determined that at least 16 tornadoes struck Illinois and northwest Indiana on Sunday. The strongest tornado to hit Illinois was rated an EF-4 - one class shy of the strongest on the charts. These devastating winds have caused chaos in these areas, leaving many without power, without homes, and some without loved ones.

My sincere hope is for the safety of all of our members and their families; my heart is especially heavy during this holiday season for those impacted by this horrific event. For those of us who are in other parts of the country, we can lend our support by giving to one of the many disaster relief agencies that are hard at work in the region.

One of these groups is The Salvation Army. You can make a donation online, by text or by mail.Donate online, text the word STORM to 80888 and reply YES to confirm your donation of $10, or mail a check designated “November Tornados” to:

Attn: November Tornadoes
The Salvation Army
10 W. Algonquin Road
Des Plaines, Ill. 60016-6000

Additional agencies accepting donations include theAmerican Red Cross,Heroes Memorial Foundation, and multiple ministries.

Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,
Rita Brooks, MEd, RST, RPSGT, REEG/EPT
AAST President