Everyone OK out there - Will, Greg, Justin et al? This sounds pretty freaking scary from what the papers are reporting......

Will was about 15 minutes away from the Tornadoes and he is fine. When the storms hit the Springfield, there were no tornadoes, so those of us living in that area are fine too.

However, reports are that 25-40% of Joplin is just devastated. A very large tornado (reported 3/4 mil in diameter) essentially went through the middle of Joplin. If you haven't seen the pictures, it is just heartbreaking.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and all those in your community.

Stag Lord said:

Indeed. Sorry to hear about the tornado and the loss of life, but glad you all are okay.

Stag Lord said:

Like Greg said, Joplin is in terrible shape. The Red Cross has sent out calls for any and all assistance. There were medical helicopters flying between the ST John's in Joplin and the St John's here in Springfield all night. So your thoughts and prayers are definitely appreciated.

Yes, Joplin is in bad shape. For those watching on the news in other places, it looks bad. For those of us used to seeing the places that were hit... well... I think I'm still in shock. One hospital down, high school, technical college, a couple elementaries, Wal-Mart, Academy Sports, Walgreens, the list goes on and on. And that's only businesses and the like that are easy to list. Add to that a huge number of homes.

Prayers are quite welcome in this time.

My thoughts are with you guys.

Wow...glad everyone we know is safe, but my heart goes out to the people affected. It is always harder when you have been through a town, know people from that town.

Good luck and stay safe!

Just posted a very brief minisode of 2 Champs and a Chump . Go check it out for some words on the tornado and a little info on donating. I know the AGoT crowd is composed of some of the best people in the world, and Joplin is the place I learned to play and competed in tournaments at for the first 5 years or so of the game- so if you can help at all, please do so.

Hurley's Heroes also has power, water and food for locals. From what I understand they've not had anyone drop in because they're on the same drag as St.John's (Which was hit hard.). Guys please donate all you can. This is the deadliest tornado on record in the U.S., no matter what your walk of life, your faith, or your career, please do what you can. I'm gathering clothes that are still wearable, and washing them and sending em that way. I'd encourage you to do something similar. I hear stories here in Springfield, about people in Republic, MO (a town nearby) finding books and photos from people in Joplin. It's heartwrenching. I'm sorry if this is a little preachy.

Being preachy in circumstances such as these is not a problem at all.

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of life and other destruction, but glad that the members of our community are ok.