It has now been confirmed that an EF 2 tornado touched down in the Athens area during a round of severe storms that hit East Tennessee with heavy rain and high winds. In all, around 20 people were injured. The tornado destroyed several structures and homes while downing trees and power lines. But in the midst of all the havoc, Amber Newman was able to give birth to Baby Ava around 1:30 AM. Mother and baby are doing fine. Two people were killed in Polk County. Tornados were also reported in Tullahoma and Manchester. The McMinn County Justice Center will act as both the collection point and distribution center for non-perishable food items and cleaning supplies for McMinn County storm victims. Anyone wanting to donate may do so in the Justice Center lobby 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Storm victims in need of supplies can come by the Justice Center at any point between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or may arrange an alternate time by contacting the County Mayor’s Office. Specific items needed include canned food and other non-perishables, water, laundry detergent, soap, cleaning items, paper goods and toiletries. Clothing is not needed at this time. Coordinated Charities is donating free clothing to any storm victim in need. All monetary donations can be made to the McMinn Chapter of the United Way or Coordinated Charities. All questions about donating or picking up supplies should be directed to the Sheriff’s Department at 423-745-5620 or the County Mayor’s Office at 423-745-7634.