The storm is over, but ...

photo Remains of a Ringgold, Ga., motel are scattered about after overnight storms produced what is thought to be numerous tornadoes which touched down throughout the North Georgia and Chattanooga area Wednesday evening. Staff photo by Dan Henry/Chattanooga Times Free Press

The storms and tornadoes that struck us in Chattanooga and in many nearby areas of Tennessee and other Southern states in recent days thankfully are long over.

But the devastation will not soon be forgotten. It is believed to have been the worst ravage by nature in our area in modern memory.

We are still stricken by the massive loss of lives and property. In one horrifying case, four members of one family were killed in Catoosa County, Ga.

Meanwhile, it will take time for our dedicated public-service crews to restore fully the services to which we are accustomed, and to clean up the debris along roadways.

While we greatly sympathize with those who have suffered - and should seek out ways to help them wherever possible - we also give thanks for the many who have worked and are still working to restore our devastated way of life.

It is some comfort that our people are resilient, and that many are providing assistance to the afflicted.

Upcoming Events