Posted: Friday, January 30, 2009 9:06 pm

Three legislators of this area — Congressman John Tanner, state Sen. Roy Herron and state Rep. Judy Barker — expressed empathy for those affected by the winter storm of 2009. Tanner said he’s talked with many families affected by the storm that left most of northwest Tennessee encased in ice left by a squall of freezing rain earlier this week. “Senator Herron and Representative Barker have kept us informed about the state and local response to the storm and have worked closely with us as we try to help storm victims,” Tanner said. Herron said many families are still working to recover. “We will continue to pray for them and do everything we can to help,” he said. “The main emphasis now is to remain in contact with local EMS agencies and officials to be sure that damages are accurately assessed.” Mrs. Barker said she has been touched by the hard work of emergency response personnel and utility company workers and by the outpouring of community support for storm victims. “Northwest Tennesseans have really expressed their volunteer spirit in helping others in these difficult times,” she said. Published in The Messenger 1.30.09