April 9th was a crazy one and one not soon to be forgotten for some of Balch Springs residents who are still cleaning up after the storms.  A twister ripped through Balch Springs about 4 a.m. as previously posted, and it upset more than just a few chickens in its path.

The ranch hand that lives at ASE Arena and Stables on Pioneer Road recalls being woken up by the shaking and lifting up of his little house!  He told me that the tornado lifted up the trailer at least a foot and dropped it back down, several times, leaving David with the choice to either pull the covers over his head and hope for the best, or make a run for it to the barn.  He opted for the former and rode it out in his little Winnebago home.  His truck did not fair as well.  He heard a loud crashing sound that the daylight would reveal as the shattered windshield of his old reliable Chevy truck.  A bit shook up, but in the same place as he started when he went to bed, he considers himself fortunate.

ASE Arena and Stables' newest family member, Ashley's little baby boy Denver, got his first taste of Texas' spring weather just a few months into this world.  All in all, after one of the pole barns lost its roof, another family is thanking God for His protection from what could have surely been much, much worse. 

Several families that live at the Oaks' Apartments are still displaced from their homes, as it seems that repairs are at a stand still.  The roofs are covered over with plastic sheeting and boards, but gaping holes in the walls reveal the storm's damage and serve as a constant reminder of the tornado that ripped off several roofs, collapsed part of a chimney and left at least 8 families without the shelter of their own apartments.  The Red Cross was present the morning of the storm and the Civic Center was offered as a temporary shelter.  I've been unable to reach any of the families directly yet, due to conflicting schedules and on going clean up at my own place, but we'll all meet this weekend at Barn Aid!

We've got 3 bands lined up to help us Party in the Pasture!  Bring a lawn chair or a blanket, something to keep you cool (no glass please) and a good time will be had by all!  From Texas honky tonk to good old rock and roll, comedy and more - everyone should find something to enjoy.  The concert will be held on the grounds of Eden's Organic Garden Center - which is nestled in the middle of a small urban ranch called The White Horse Ranch. 

Amazingly, none of the animals at either of the ranches were seriously injured during the tornado but many urban farms have found it difficult to find adequate or affordable insurance coverage for older barns and outbuildings.  Families in apartment homes generally don't have insurance for food and personal belongings. 

Barn Aid 08 is to help raise funds to help out those affected by the storm.  Neighbors helping neighbors - like before the days of insurance.  We hope to see you there!