Navigating Post-Tornado Recovery

Q: What should I do immediately after the tornado?

Ensure you and your family are safe, check on neighbors, and avoid downed power lines. Document damages with photos and videos before making temporary repairs.

Q: How can I find reputable contractors for repairs?

Seek recommendations from trusted sources, verify licenses and insurance, and get multiple written estimates before hiring.

Q: Where can I find temporary shelter if my home is uninhabitable?

Contact local emergency management agencies or the Red Cross for information on available shelters and assistance programs.

Happi Pappi

If you're seeking a delightful pick-me-up during Madison's recovery, look no further than Happi Pappi... the beloved local food truck serving up authentic French beignets with Southern flair.Tennessee Valley Living+

Freshly fried and generously dusted with powdered sugar, Happi Pappi's beignets offer a comforting taste of New Orleans right here in North Alabama. Pair them with a cup of their signature hot cocoa or a vegan-friendly oat milk café au lait for a truly indulgent treat. 

You'll find Happi Pappi popping up at various community events, from farmers markets to neighborhood gatherings. To locate their next stop, check out their schedule at happipappi.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Whether you're in need of a sweet escape or looking to support local businesses during this time, Happi Pappi's beignets are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Filing Insurance Claims After a Tornado

In the wake of the May 20 tornado, it's crucial to understand the steps for filing insurance claims:

• Contact Your Insurer Promptly: Report damages as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. 

• Document Everything: Take photos and videos of all damages before making temporary repairs.

• Keep Receipts: Save receipts for any expenses related to temporary repairs or accommodations.

• Understand Your Policy: Review your insurance policy to know what's covered and any deductibles that apply.

Are You Prepared?

When severe weather strikes, early warnings can save lives. That’s why every household in Madison should have a Midland Weather Radio. This device provides instant alerts from the National Weather Service, even when power or cell service is down. With features like automatic severe weather updates and a battery backup, you’ll stay informed about tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Here in Alabama, where unpredictable weather is common, having a Midland Weather Radio on hand offers peace of mind and essential protection for your family. Don’t wait until the next storm to get prepared! We've been hearing that they continue to sell out at local stores. Order yours today.

You can go here for instructions on how to set it up.

We Want to Spotlight Your Business Right Here...

If you have a local business and would love to be featured in our newsletter, you can connect with us here.

A Neighbor with a Skid Steer and a Big Heart

When a tornado swept through our Madison neighborhood, many were left with downed trees, heavy brush, and a mess to clean up. But amidst the storm’s aftermath, one neighbor stood out... Greg Chappell. Armed with a skid steer and an even bigger heart, Greg jumped into action, helping clear debris and offering a hand wherever it was needed.

Without asking for anything in return, Greg showed us what true Southern hospitality and community spirit look like. His generosity turned a stressful day into one of unity and hope.

If you’re in need of help with clearing brush or other heavy equipment work, Greg may be available for hire. He specializes in building roads, pool pads, building pads, landscaping, brush cutting, and clearing.

You can reach Greg at 256-515-0809 to discuss your project and availability.

Greg, thank you for stepping up when our community needed you most. We’re proud to shine this spotlight on your kindness, skills, and service to Madison.

Know someone else like Greg? Let us know... we love sharing the good happening right here in Madison.

It's Memorial Day Weekend... Stay Safe Out There!

... and thank you for being a valued subscriber and neighbor in our community!

Don't forget to share our newsletter link with your neighbors at

https://newsletter.themadisonmemo.com

We appreciate any suggestions or recommendations you may have, so feel free to reply to this email with your feedback.

We also have sections for recipes, job opportunities, events and much much more that we'll be rolling out in the future. So stay tuned!

We are also looking for Community Contributors. If you are interested, go here and signup.

If you have read this far, you may wonder why there isn't any news about accidents, hate and crime and it's because there is just too much of that everywhere else. We want this newsletter to bring you kind awareness and also to help spread joy and information on your Sunday!

Thank you for your support

- Robert

The tornado was rated as an EF2.