By Sam Garchik

As all of you know, Johnson County was hit by a tornado Thursday night. For those who haven't seen the damage, John Deeth, of the Johnson County Democrats, has posted these pictures. The Johnson County Democrats have sent this out on their list-serv to let us know what we can do to help:

Here is an initial list of things you can do to help in Johnson County. Please keep sending ideas this way.

1) Donate supplies for displaced students to Red Cross, UISG or Johnson County Crisis Center
2) Help notify displaced persons about shelter options
3) Get on a city or relief agency volunteer list
4) Donate to a relief agency

If you would like to donate any supplies, call UISG at 319-335-3860, or call Mark at 319-621-7393.

If you would like to volunteer to walk neighborhoods and let displaced people know about the services available at the IMU, come to the UISG office in 48 IMU.

From Garry Klein:  If you have carpentry, electrical, or plumbing skills or can operate heavy equipment, you can call the City 319-356-5200 and they will put you on a list to help as needed.

The United Way and Salvation Army are coordinating volunteers. Their number is 319-337-3725.

Also, the Red Cross can use your help if you a TRAINED Red Cross volunteer call 319-337-2119 or Toll Free: (800) 982-2438. Otherwise, the best way to support American Red Cross disaster relief efforts is through a monetary donation. The American Red Cross is not set up to sort and distribute collections of food, clothing or other items. It is difficult to transport and sort collections at a disaster site, as it requires lots of time, money and personnel. We recommend that these types of items be given to local food banks or agencies who are equipped for such donations.

Mail a check or money order to: American Red Cross Grant Wood Area Chapter, PO Box 10375, Cedar  Rapids, IA 52410-0375. You may also donate by phone or mail. To make a gift on your credit card via phone, please call (319) 393-3500.