WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren joined Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator David Paulison, Governor Brad Henry, and Senator Jim Inhofe, as well as several state and local emergency management officials, on their tour today of the storm ravaged areas in Ottawa County. This is the second visit Congressman Boren has made to Picher since a tornado swept through the area Saturday.
“As Senator Inhofe, I, and the Oklahoma Congressional delegation continue working with Governor Henry to obtain federal disaster assistance, touring the damaged areas in northeastern Oklahoma with Homeland Security and FEMA administrators will assist that effort greatly,” Boren said. “Having spent time with Secretary Chertoff and Administrator Paulison today in Picher, I know they fully understand the needs facing this community.”
Boren, Inhofe, Henry, and the delegation of federal officials began their tour mid-morning with a helicopter tour of damage in Ottawa County. This was followed by a stop in Picher for a walking tour of the devastated community. Boren met and spoke with several residents during his time on the ground.
“On my first trip to the area this weekend, residents were still determining the extent of damage and making sure their loved ones were safe,” said Boren. “The tone today obviously has shifted to one of looking toward the next step. As residents begin to seek answers for how the storm damage will affect the ongoing buyout, the Governor, Senator, and I have already started discussions with FEMA and the EPA about the best, safest, and above all the quickest, possible means to assist the citizens of Picher,” Boren said.
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