Well, many East Texans have been hoping, willing, praying, and even considering doing rain dances over the past few weeks as people all over our areas have been desperate for rain.
Well, ya know that old saying "When it rains, it pours?" That phrase is typically used metaphorically but in this case? Yeah, it's quite literal. And you can see the after-effects of this in the video posted by Tyler, Texas man Chris Landrum below.
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Thankfully, the First Monday Trade Days won't be back until September 1 through 4. That ought to give the earth time to drink in all of that much-needed precipitation and perhaps dry out a bit so Canton visitors won't be walking through muddy conditions. Well, unless the rains continue. But as many East Texas natives know, even if there was a downpour, First Monday would still happen. They state clearly on their website:
Open sun up 'til sun down before the First Monday of every month! Open Rain or Shine!
But let's hope shoppers won't need to "ski" from place to place. Although actually, that could be quite entertaining...but I digress.
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Back on topic, if you'd like to see the video Chris Landrum shared in its entirety, we have it for you right here:
OK, I hear the rain beginning yet again...and earlier there was a tornado warning in some of our East Texas counties. Y'all, just please be safe on these roads and let's keep looking out for each other.
Tyler, TX People Share 12 of the Best Places to Go When There is a Tornado Warning
We'd like to add to this list of safer spaces people where people can seek shelter in the case of a tornado in the Tyler, Texas area. So if you're aware of any public spaces good for taking shelter during tornadic storms, let us know so we can add them!
Where Can Tyler, TX People Seek Shelter?
There are few things more horrifying than the idea of being caught in an unsafe place when a storm like this hits. Let's take a look at 12 of the places Tyler, TX people recommend if, God forbid, you were to find yourself in this situation away from home.
A Neighbor's Home
And by a neighbor, we mean next door or, in desperate situations, another local resident who might be willing to let you shelter in one of their windowless rooms.
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Local Hospitals
I actually never thought of this idea, but it makes sense. After all, these are places dedicated to taking care of people. There are also quite a few windowless rooms in many of these facilities. A good suggestion.
Google Maps
Churches
We've heard of several churches who opened their doors last night to people--in case they needed help. Green Acres Baptist Church also has a basement which may be useful in these scenarios. Call to confirm.
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Convenience Stores
Call to double-check some, just to be sure. However, several people commented that they'd taken shelter in convenience store bathrooms and even walk-in coolers.
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Local Fire Stations
I'm not sure why I'd never thought of this, but it makes sense. Call those in your vicinity to see if they have a safety plan in place for these situations.
Google Maps
Fast Food Restaurants
Again, I'd not thought of this one, but they also often have windowless bathrooms and areas in the kitchen that might be life-saving in the worst possible storm scenarios.
Google Maps
Hotels
Large, stable buildings with various rooms--many of which have windowless bathroom areas. Some may even offer basement space.
Google Maps
Movie Theaters
Oh of course!! Movie theatres are filled with large windowless rooms. Call to make sure.
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Grocery Stores/CVS/Walgreen's
The same applies here as aforementioned. I could imagine quite a few folks hunkering down in the back of one of these places. Be careful of all of those windows at the front, though.
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Walmart or Target
Or any other big box stores similar to these--such as a Best Buy, perhaps? All that windowless warehouse space in the back, tho.
Google Maps
Buy your own pre-built storm shelter
You can find these all over the place now. This one was on offer from Home Depot for a little under $5,000.
Mathias PR Reding, Unsplash
Last Resort? Find that Ditch or Creek Bed
Many lives have been saved by following this simple instruction. Obviously, most of us would prefer something a bit more formidable, but when in need...
LOCAL LOVE: East Texas Restaurant Vows to Keep Prices Low for Customers
I confess I've not had the pleasure of visiting yet, but I promise ya this: I will be soon. Especially after this compassionate message to customers. Here's a look at some of what they offer.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Look at This Adorable Little Spot!
Let's take a look at what's on offer...
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Pop's Special is One Heckuva Deal, Y'all!
In some places, this would easily be more than double that price these days. And did we mention they're using Blue Bell for those milkshakes?
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
That Cheeseburger, Tho
Look at that melted cheese, and fresh veggies. Yes, please.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Seasoned Fries are Calling My Name
I feel like I could just reach through the photo and grab one. *tries*
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Blue Bell Milkshakes and Scoops
I mean...is there anything more to say? YUM.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Here's Their Ice Cream Flavors
So...what'll you have? I'll have a scoop of each, please.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
WHAT?!
OK, I'm also gonna need one of these magical unicorn milkshakes. Is that Mint Chocolate Chip? OMG.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
So, UM...Those Onion Rings...
...Look dangerously delicious. Bacon cheeseburger, anyone?
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, Too
That looks both delicious and healthy.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Anyone Else Up for Meeting for Lunch Here?
Just holler, cuz we're ready.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Pop's Last Stand Menu
In case you wanted to explore more options and prices.
Pop's Last Stand, Diana, TX
Some of the Specials on Offer
And those prices can't be beaten--especially right now.
Hallsville, TX Girl Celebrates Birthday by Raising Money for Those in Need
You can literally see the joy radiating out of her sweet face while she is doing it. Clearly, her parents are raising her well.
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
Look at this! They even made a special advertisement inviting people to swing by for lemonade and/or to make donations to the Hallsville ISD Shoe Drive!
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
What a great setup! And what sounds better than a cold glass of lemonade on a hot ETX summer day?
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
OMG, I love her hat. Way to go, Sadie Mae!
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
You can see how happy she is spending her bday raising funds and accepting donations to the HISD shoe drive.
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
After raising $250 and then receiving a generous match from a family friend, Sadie and her family went shopping for shoes for the HISD Shoe Drive!
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
Wow, that's quite a haul! But wait...she's not finished yet...
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!
Shopping for Shoes, DAY 2!
Photos courtesy of Eva Lessmeier
Sadie Mae's Lemonade Stand!