"I have been in continuous contact with state and local emergency management officials regarding the widespread storm damage.  I have directed my Governor's Office field representatives in the LINK offices in those areas to communicate with local elected officials to ascertain their immediate needs as they deal with the storm aftermath.  The Lieutenant Governor will tour some of the damaged areas and then report back to me.  I expect to execute a state of emergency declaration for several counties later in the day.  With the coordinated state and local efforts, we are doing all we can to assess the damage and provide relief to storm victims.  Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families affected by the storm.  The First Lady and I are keeping the storm victims, volunteers, and emergency workers in our thoughts and prayers.”