Governor Pawlenty's Statement re: I-35W Bridge Collapse

""This is a catastrophe of historic propositions for Minnesota. We want to say to the families who are being impacted by this that our hearts and prayers are with you. But we also want to make sure that you know we are doing everything we can to make sure that we respond as quickly as we can to the needs of this emergency."

News Conference
The Governor along with other officials including Senator Coleman, Senator Klobuchar, Congressman Ellison and Mayor Ryback are holding a press conference at 9:30 this morning (8/2).

Recovery Efforts
The City of Minneapolis through its Fire, Police and Emergency ResponseDepartments is serving as the focal point for recovery efforts.
The State of Minnesota (along with target federal efforts) is working in conjunction with the City and providing any and all resources needed. City and State officials continue to ask that the public does not go down to the collapse site.

Donations
Groups interested in donating any products (water, food, etc) to workers who are and will be involved with the effort at the site are asked to contact the Twin Cities Chapter of the American Red Cross at (612) 460-3700.

Blood donations are now being accepted. Please call the Memorial Blood Centers of Minnesota in advance to schedule a time for your blood donation at their four metro area centers. The Blood Center's central scheduling number is 612-871-3300 ext. 4421 or visit http://www.redcross.org/donate/give/American Red Cross Blood Services, to donate blood-call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (448-3543) or visit www.givebloodgivelife.org.

Financial donations can be made by visiting the website of the Twin Cities Chapter of the American Red Cross: http://www.redcrosstc.org/"