Joplin Missouri Tornado: Elephant Assists in Recovery Efforts

It's not just dogs who are helping out in Joplin, after the tornado hit May 22.  The latest cleaning crew includes an elephant from the Piccadilly Circus.  Scheduled to perform in Joplin, the venue was destroyed by the EF5 tornado ravaged the town on May 22.

Some folks watching the elephant move heavy debris, some thought it was simply a publicity stunt.  Other observers thought it was great.  According to one Joplin resident:  "A St John's pediatrician told me that children, who'd been scared and jumping at every noise, broke out into big smiles and thought it was very, very cool indeed.  Everyone here is very stressed, but let's try to keep a generous spirit as much as possible.  Just look at the volunteers who've driven miles and put their lives on hold, just to help us dig ourselves out, in 90 degree heat.  Thank you circus!"

 

Dog Saves Dog in Joplin Missouri Tornado Wreckage

A search and rescue dog found another dog yesterday who'd been buried in rubble since the tornado swept through Joplin, Missouri on May 22. 

Joplin Missouri Tornado: Prayer and Remembrance Today

Don Zolecki (left) of the Sunrise Beach MO Fire Department leads rescue dog Amber Alert in a search for survivors in Joplin.

An official State Day of Prayer and Remembrance has been declared by Missouri Governor Jay Nixon for today, Sunday, May 29. A community wide memorial service will be held at 2 pm.

Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr says 139 people are now confirmed dead after a deadly tornado roared through the city on May 22.  According to the Missouri Department of Public Safety 100 individuals are still missing.  As the death toll rises, Joplin remains focused on finding life.  

More than 400 volunteers and 50 dog teams continue working to try and find tornado survivors.