Reeling From Katrina Aftermath
It's hard to get my brain around how such a major US city - and one so rich in history (by U.S. Standards, at least) could be effectively wiped off the map in about 48 hours. Mother Nature has reminded us once again that our very existance is suffered by her whim. It's at least not nearly as catastrophic in terms of human lives as the tsunami several months ago. But my feeling of shock is pretty much the same.

I hear our President talking about "Zero Tolerance" for looters, and people calling to "Shoot looters in the head." But then I see images of people looting food and BAGS OF DIAPERS. That might not be civilized, but that's not profiteering from disaster. But there are people who thought all they were in for was a rough few days without power and repairing storm damage. AND many people who had no choice but to stay, because they had nowhere to go and no means of transportation. Now their very survival is at stake. The police forces there seem to be trying to do the right thing - I heard how they actually stopped the looting in one store and began just distributing the food for people One police officer allowed people to take shoes from one store IF they fit. Reasonable responses to desperate times. I wish more leaders showed such level-headedness in the face of disaster. Yes, there are some people out there who are turning savage, shooting others (including a policeman and national guardsman trying to evacuate survivors!), and trying to steal and horde what they can. And it's getting worse. These guys need to be stopped any way possible. But blanket statements and zero-tolerance policies aren't what they need.

I also heard a story about the manager of one of the better hotels. The guests didn't have access to transportation when the evacuation notice went out - they were stuck. So the hotel manager had everyone fill their bathtubs and sinks with water. He moved them up to the fourth floor. And of course he opened up the full resources to everyone. Smart job. So while the guests are still stuck and not very comfortable, they are at least out of immediate danger and have food & water (and alcohol, apparently!) to last them until rescue arrives. The hotel manager deserves a medal.

My brother has put up the website http://www.homeflood.com as a sign-up board for people who wish to provide aid - particularly to house victims who have lost everything. They will eventually be providing a signup for people to help transport victims as well. Several families have signed up already.
- posted by The Rampant Coyote @ 9:33 AM (Permalink)