A Message to EAS Memebers and Friends

Dear member/friend of the EAS,

We have waited until the latest possible time to send this out to allow time for as many people as possible to return to Houston and to have power and connectivity restored, but we realize not everyone has access to usual communications channels at this time. Therefore, if you get this message and are able to contact someone whom you know cannot get this email, please help spread the word.

You must have all by now seen in the media the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Ike. Unfortunately for many of our members and friends, there's actually no need to look to the media for evidence of Ike's destruction - it's right in front of them in their own neighborhoods. Having said that, we must say Alhamdulilah for sparing us what could have been a much worse disaster.

Since many of us are still recovering in the aftermath of the hurricane and given the numerous exposures to potentially hazardous conditions still around us especially in the downtown area, and a night-time curfew remaining in place in the Houston metropolitan area, we have gone ahead and CANCELLED the Sept meeting/Iftar at Layal. We sincerely apologize for this cancellation, but as I am sure you realize this is due to circumstances well beyond our control. Once recovery from the hurricane is complete, we will Inshaalah be back in touch with you regarding timing and venue of future activities.

Lastly, please remember that your safety and security are top priorities to your family and friends at the EAS, so please remain vigilant especially when doing things like clearing debris, trimming trees, using a generator, driving at intersections where signal lights are out, etc.

Alhamdulilah for your safety and best regards,

Hani Elshahawi