WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) will again visit Caruthersville and Pemiscot County to review the damage caused by a recent tornado between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. CDT TOMORROW.  The county has received a  federal disaster declaration from the president, opening up specific federal grant and loan programs to the victims.

 

“It is important that all of our state and federal officials stay in close contact with the situation on the ground in Pemiscot County.  That is why I am returning to the county tomorrow as well as the reason for U.S. Senator Jim Talent and Missouri Governor Matt Blunt’s recent visits.  There is a tremendous amount of damage to consider, and we have to remember how directly this disaster affects the people who live in the Bootheel,” Emerson said.

 

Emerson will begin her tour at 9:30 a.m. CDT with an open meeting with Caruthersville Mayor Diane Sayre and state and federal officials.  Their report on the damage and the progress of recovery efforts will take place at City Hall.

 

At 10:00 a.m. CDT, Emerson will arrive at the Disaster Recovery Center in the Caruthersville American Legion, from which FEMA is coordinating the efforts of 30 employees who are registering victims for assistance. 

 

Emerson will also review Caruthersville High School, which experienced a great deal of damage from the tornado, at 10:30 a.m. CDT.

 

Finally, at 11:00 a.m. CDT, Emerson will tour the Red Cross Center at the Armory.

 

“You really have to see the destruction to understand the impact on peoples’ lives.  We all have a responsibility to pull together, and I am exploring every possible way to get the federal government’s support for the victims of this tragedy,” Emerson said.  “It’s going to be a long road, but we must sustain our progress and not lose focus.  I am very proud of all those who continue to dedicate their best efforts to this relief and recovery effort.”