“The Red Cross is making sure that people in Oklahoma get the help they need today, Friday and over the holiday weekend,” said Trevor Riggen, vice president of Disaster Operations and Logistics for the Red Cross. “We will have places where people can come to get food and emergency aid and also will have workers and vehicles going out in the community. The Red Cross also continues to provide health and mental health services to the people who need our help following this tragedy

The Red Cross tornado response is also continuing in Texas following the May 15 tornado. Wednesday night, more than 40 people stayed in Red Cross and community shelters in Texas. Red Cross volunteers are also providing food, relief supplies, emotional support and comfort as those communities recover.

HOW TO HELP Those who would like to help people affected by disasters like tornadoes, floods and other crises can make a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. People can donate by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. These donations help provide food, shelter and emotional support to those affected by disasters.

Memorial Day 2013 TV programming and marathons

From Channelguide

Saturday, May 25, 2013 through Friday, May 31, 2013

What's Exempt: During this seven-day period, purchases of certain supplies and equipment needed for hurricane preparedness will be exempt from sales tax. Retailers may also choose to absorb the tax on other items during the holiday period, but they are responsible for paying the tax on those items to the Department of Taxation.

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If you have loved ones in Oklahoma, try texting rather than calling. Also use the Red Cross Safe and Well site to search for family and friends who've listed themselves safe.

#safeandwell

Redcross.org/safeandwell

Another important tool for everyone to use is the Red Cross tornado app for iPhone and DROID users. The app features tips on how to be prepared before, during and after disasters, NWS maps and information, shelter locations, and an "I'm safe" button to be used through social media accounts. The app also includes a built-in tornado siren that activates when NWS-issued alerts affect your area or the areas your friends and loved ones live in.