Some of us who have lived in the Toledo region all our lives remember the tornado that ravaged our area on Palm Sunday, 1965.  But after four and a half decades, I have to admit that I’d become a little complacent. Last weekend’s storms were a grim reminder of the sheer violence that can descend upon the community so quickly. That realization hit me as my wife, two daughters, 3 grandchildren, dog and I rushed to the basement in the middle of the night Saturday.  But then we realized – where are our flashlights? We forgot a radio! Did anyone bring a cell phone? How about basic first aid supplies?

We in Maumee were among the lucky ones spared of the devastation that unfortunately descended upon surrounding communities.  But we vowed to have learned from their tragic experiences, and next time (if it ever comes) we will have a plan in place that is rehearsed, requiring no thinking.  Perhaps you remember from your own personal experience Saturday night, there just isn’t time to prepare or to gather supplies.  Survival comes first.

Northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan don’t need to worry about hurricanes, tsunamis, landslides, wild fires, volcanoes; even earthquakes are rarely more than a “did you feel that?” rattle.  But let’s do our best to prepare for the next great storms.  If you are like me and didn’t have a great plan in place, this link might be a good place to start: http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/tornadoes.shtm

The caring spirit that this community has demonstrated since the storms is something to be proud of.  Volunteers are coming out of the woodwork, and donations are flowing.  If you are looking for a place to drop off relief supplies or donations to the American Red Cross, Danberry’s Oregon office is one of many places in the region you may do so.