Peter H. Bell: “this weekend, a catastrophic tornado struck the heart of St. Louis, killing five of our neighbors, injuring dozens more…”

“this weekend, a catastrophic tornado struck the heart of St. Louis, killing five of our neighbors, injuring dozens more, and causing more than $1.6 billion in projected damage. Over 5,000 buildings were hit, power lines are down, critical infrastructure remains unstable, and entire neighborhoods are waking up to devastation. Even in the middle of all that loss, St. Louis showed out. St. Louis showed up and showed what it is made of. Neighbors checked on neighbors. Teachers sheltered students. First responders put themselves in harm's way to keep others safe, and I thank them all. This is not just a Democratic or a Republican issue. This is an all-of-the-above issue. From the Governor, the mayor, municipal mayors, the county executives, State representatives and senators, city alderpersons, county leaders, and especially regular citizens who have been working so hard for their community, I acknowledge these leaders. Right now, thousands are still without power. Schools are closed, and families are grieving. Faith without works is dead, and we need the prayers of our constituents. It will take a lot of work. I urge FEMA and the administration to work quickly. St. Louis can and will rebuild, but we cannot be left to do it alone. We have been through a lot. Working together, we are going to get through this, too.”