We felt this should be posted

We received this email from one of our readers and felt it should be posted.

Sexuality should, in my opinion, be private.
It should be a non-issue.
Fem, and Hyper-male stuff is just "acting out". It is an act of
passive-aggression.
People need to learn how to have a well integrated personality of their very
own--instead of acting out a character. (Or in my own personal venacular:
being a cartoon.)
I think the focus should be to give young people the understanding that they
themselves must be complete before they start engaging in intimacy of any
kind. They need to learn how to have healthy relationships with others as
individuals and have a comfortability in themselves before adding sexuality
to the mix. So many people that I have met lack the self-restraint and
completeness which is necessary for a comfortable partnership with another
human being regardless of sexuality.
It is nothing less than a tragedy--again the sexuality means nothing in
this.
I have known a few very flamboyant characters--which admittedly scared the
crap out of me. They did it on purpose. It kept people at a distance and
headed off any rejection. The rejection they were most frightened of was
not of their sexuality, but of THEM. Two different deals. Pain in both.
I've caused myself great injury in the past, and will slip into old
passive-aggressive behavior without even realizing it. A terrible flaw, a
crippling defect of character, based upon fear, anger, and rage.
Even though I'm "straight" and have always been--the "gay-pride" stuff I
have seen in action has been the reflection of these same flaws. It tatters
the fabric of civility, it divides the community, and causes distress and
confusion amongst the young. I do not believe that sexuality is complete
until people reach their twenties--a childhood "crush" has been turned into
a life sentence. This is totally unfair to the young.
The few people that I have known over the years which were complete,
comfortable people were gender innocuous--that is to say that the
personality and other aspects of their character were very much in the
foreground. They could turn the sensual aspect of their character on and
off like a light bulb; and that side of their character was no one's
business but their own. Each and every one of those rare individuals were
worthy of emulation.
Outward behavior is important--in the end it is all anyone has to decide
whether to associate, befriend, or hire someone. That is where the focus
should be--along with private things remaining comfortably private.
I am convinced that Rhonda Storms was elected and re-elected strictly for
entertainment value and nothing else. She is the South Hillborough County
answer to the powers-that-be in south Tampa that run everything. The
WWF-Wrestler is a pathetic puppet, with daddy well connected with the
"good-ole-boys". I really wanted "Dave the Dwarf" to win-if only for the
name value. The people who really cared about the county didn't have a
chance.

It is Past Amazing !

Cirque de Soleil launched a one month engagement of the production - VAREKAI in St. Petersburg this week.

TAMPAGOLD.COM and SOHOTAMPA.COM were invited to attend and to assist in part of their promotion of the event.

Having been to a Cirque de Soleil's La Nouba previously, I did not hesitate to commit to them and to attend the opening event.

If you like costumes, you have to go.

If you like theatre and dance, you have to go.

If you like acrobatics, you have to go.

If you like comedy, you have to go.

There is nothing like Cirque de Soleil. The talent, professionalism, and production is second to none.

You will see performers accomplish physical acts that seem impossible.

Varekai starts with a forest feel of roaming animals and characters that borders on chaos. As the show progresses, chaos is far from what you see. The precision of the performers in overhead acrobatics and springboard programs is nothing short of amazing. Trust between performance partners is nothing short of miraculous.

Don't miss this event while it is here.

Tampa/Hillsborough Deserves Better

It has been funny this year to watch the personality battles between the various leaders in Tampa and Hillsborough County.

Remember Alexander Haig's "I'm In Charge" statement. Well when Mayor Iorio and the County Administrator started to tug over who would be in charge following a significant disaster, it sure sounded a familiar tone.

With the growth that is happening all over the immediate area, it is clear to see that most of it seems out of control from the long range planners. It has become virtually seamless as you drive out East Adamo drive and transition to Brandon. Plant City, Lutz, Riverview are rapidly filling in the gaps of any empty property to be found.

In case you missed it, the Tampa Tribune recently called for a county mayor form of government. Petitions are being circulated to put this issue on the ballot. We think it is a good idea, too. What do you think ?

President Bush is Correct !

After all the ruckus raised about Democratic Congressman Murtha's call for the immediate withdrawl of troops from Iraq, the President finally said something that should have been said long ago. Of course, the White House staff that called Murtha part of the the Michael Moore and Left Wing of America didn't seem to get the message in time.

President Bush: "People should feel comfortable about expressing their opinions about Iraq. I heard somebody say "Well maybe so and so is not patriotic" because they disagree with my position. I totally reject that thought."

America was born on the basis of many freedoms - including freedom of speech. We should all welcome people to speak up about their beliefs - whether we agree with them or not. With the right wing rhetoric of criticism being un-American, we have to state the opposite - the right to criticize with free speech is the basis of what America is all about.

Tampa's Riverwalk Will Change Our City

Have you looked at a map and seen how much waterfrontage Tampa has ? It is a lot.

But have you tried to find a place on the water to enjoy a meal or drinks and enjoy the view ? There aren't very many.

Mayor Iorio is aggressively putting together her plans to provide a usable riverfront walkway that will connect all of downtown. Over 2 miles of meandering walks, trails, bridges, and docks will allow for a continuous riverside stroll from Channelside to north of the I-275 bridge. Visions of cafes, historical displays, large event/concert venues, informative nature stands, and lots more are being discussed. This is no pie in the sky. Already lots of the required property and walks are in place or under construction. The design team - from an internationally acclaimed company - EDAW - is very impressive. A third presentation will come in the next few months that will lay out specifics of the plan - including anticipated costs.

If you have ever been to San Antonio, Baltimore, or most any major city on a waterway, you have probably strolled their Riverwalk equivalent. While we have some issues with the Mayor on various items, this project and this design team look like they will positively change the face of downtown Tampa forever.

Several players in this project must be noted: Mayor Iorio has shown the vision, EDAW has provided great information with a beyond the call of duty attitude about seeking public input, and Riverwalk Development Manager Lee Hoffrman has the personality and attitude that is ready to overcome any obstacle. A "Friends of Riverwalk" group provides us with our only concern for this project. This group will provide the business/real estate/ developer input to the project. Chaired by Dan Mahurin, this is a most vital part of making the project happen - it is what the public has to give up that concerns us in this venture.

If you have any concern about Tampa's future, you should be keeping your eyes on the Riverwalk plan. Goal for completion of the two mile Riverwalk is not far away - early 2009, in time for Super Bowl. You can get complete Riverwalk details here.

Not So Fast !

The current meeting of the minds between Mayor Iorio and the Tampa Museum of Art about locating the new museum in the Cube/Beer Can Building at Kennedy and Ashley on the rivers seems like a wonderful solution to a lot of problems - but only on the surface.

The building is an architecturally well designed place with a lot of vacancies that needs something there. The Museum really wants to be on the river and since their current location has a date with the wrecking ball, an immediate decision is important to them. The Mayor is trying to regain some of her lost political capital because of the animosity her stands including a recommendation to put the museum in the old federal courthouse have generated.

TAMPAGOLD.COM has clearly been on the record of supporting the retention and renovation of Kiley Gardens, so this new, compromise location would seem perfect. But, it is not.

If you examine previous discussions, it is clear that the square footage is not adequate. Parking does not look adequate. Lighting in the cube is really great - but not for an art museum. Wall space/display space is not adequate. The costs are being evaluated, but they will probably exceed the costs available for a new museum.

The Mayor's idea of a large park space for events that would include the proposed Riverwalk, the current Curtis Hixon Park, and the current to be cleared museum site; could bring more people to the Tampa downtown. St.Petersburg's Ribfest this past weekend shows what a large, open air space can do for a city. But as far as the Tampa Museum of Art is concerned, it is time to keep looking for a suitable space. We wish the current "choice of the day" would work, but after examining their previous concerns and requests; it is clear that it just won't.

The Rhonda and Brian Show

In case you missed Wednesday night's Fox News Network's interview of two Hillsborough County Commissioners - Rhonda Storms and Brian Blair - you missed quite a show.

Just for your information, we did not want to see the holidays done away with, but isn't the issue education ? Most government agencies do not recognize these holidays.

Bill O'Reilly clearly portrayed Storms and her side kick, Blair, as the ones that have stopped the grinch from stealing holidays in our public schools - implying that they single handedly accomplished this. (So those of you that attended meetings, sent emails, or made phone calls were not important) The rhetoric was so thick that it seemed more like fiction rather than a news story.

After listening to Commissioner Storms rant and rave over the years it seemed hard to not crack up when O'Reilly said as a concern about the school holidays critics: "Any time they can't win on the issues they resort to name calling".

To more appropriately reflect to you the flavor of the interview: imagine Commissioner Storms dressed in black leather, dominatrix attire with whip in hand and the submissive Blair kissing her booted feet.

When asked about the "liberal media - the St. Pete Times and the Tampa Tribune", Commissioner Storms pandered to O'Reilly by making it clear that TV is taking over newspapers. (Editors note: we believe that is true for the Storms and Blair fans - they probably can't or don't read any way. With the editorial differences between the Times and the Trib, they must be laughing hysterically at being painted as in the liberal camp together. )

This inteview was so funny that it rated as a comedy act. The submissive Blair seemed to look at Storms in awe. The continual name calling rhetoric was dogmatic rather than substantive. The only thing sad about the whole thing was to remember that these two elected officals are paid big bucks to represent us. Sort of makes us wish we had elections more often.

Is Ybor About to Change ?

We might really add - "again" to this title.

With the soon demise of the riverfront Tampa Museum of Art, Ybor City has started a campaign to attract the museum to their historic area.

The Arts Ybor events could help that become a reality by showing that the area is more than just bars and loud crowds. The recent Shop Hop organized by three Ybor Ad agencies was very impressive in showcasing the talent and business climate in the area.

Many art galleries already call Ybor home. Is Ybor City the right place for Tampa's main art investment ?

We are not sure, but the success or failure of Arts Ybor may make a big difference in answering that question. What do you think ?

Controlling Growth in Tampa - is it possible ?

At a recent City Town Meeting, Mayor Iorio indicated that downtown has the infrastructure to allow for the addition of an entire new neighborhood.

Not sure what that means as far as numbers go, but that could be 10,000 or more.

Do you think our existing neighborhoods can handle the growth already underway ? PalmaCeia has responded by restricting townhouse development. A proposed condo project South of Gandy has been denied. A planned high rise at Bayshore and Desoto has also been denied. Most of these denials have come after significant neighborhood opposition.

What do you think is our city's biggest issue affecting growth management ? What "can" be done and what "should" be done ?

Who Stole the Pumpkin from Guavaween ?

Tampa's biggest Halloween Party was fun as always this year. Costumes were interesting as always, but something seemed to be amiss.

The Chamber of Commerce Guavaween site indicates a possible turnout of 80,000. But this week's reports put the number closer to 50,000.

The weather for this fun event was about as close to perfect as possible. We noticed the sidewalks did not seem jammed. The band stages were in some cases almost vacant.

Apparently in true Guavaween spirit, various city departments decided to visit various establishments - closing several down due to code violations. We don't have a problem with that - except didn't those problems exist prior to Guavaween Saturday ? Where was the City then ?

While almost all city parades are started with city and county officials in convertibles waving to the masses, they were clearly invisible at Guavaween. (Do they think the 50,000 attendees are not voters ? or is it more than that)

Guavaween is a fun event. Ybor City is a beautiful, historical place. Why the fun businesses, other businesses, and City and County officials can't get together and establish a clear direction for this area is one of Tampa's greatest tragedies.

Thursday, Nov. 3, from 5:30 - 8:30 PM - Three Ad Agencies in Ybor have put together the Ybor Shop Hop. These creative groups have the opportunity to help solve this divide. Let's hope Ybor starts acting like a team and establishes a direction for progress. This tragedy of division has gone on too long.

The REAL Message of Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks will alway be known as a significant contributor to helping to eliminate racial discrimination. While racism is still in clear existence today, her efforts definitely helped to make America more aware of discrimination at a time when few seemed to be concerned.

But I do not think that is the message that the life of Rosa Parks should be remembered by.

Her real message was the power of the individual to effect change and thought. Her refusal to give up her seat in a Montgomery, Alabama bus was more about that power of an individual than anything else.

As I have written this blog and other articles it has amazed me at the complacency of Americans. We talk of defending our freedoms but them feel we cannot express them.

The rhetoric of how not supporting a war is the same as not supporting the troops or our President is an example of that. Speaking up IS American. English King George sure got that message - so why can't we ?

At a recent Tampa Town Meeting, the lack of public response was noticeable. As City Officials and Administrators waited with pens in hand to address South and West Tampa issues, the small number of attendees would indicate that we have very few issues in our great city.

It is American to discuss issues - from both sides - and to seek better ways of understanding. The message from Rosa Parks is - one voice can make a difference - all you have to do is use it.

Are We a TV Society ? Can computers make us interactive ?

Dealing with volunteers for many years, it has seemed that people think we are a TV society - a society that allows us to only turn the switch on or off - or to just switch channels. People don't seem to think that they can cause things to happen. Change the plot or script so to speak.

When we really step on some toes (which we do on occasions) ; someone always says to me "I can't believe you said that."

Issues need to be discussed and hammered about, not just turned on or off. Negotiation, compromise and discussion is what freedom is all about.

Computers are allowing for much greater interactivity - such as this blog - where you can add your comments, ideas or suggestions. To stay silent means: you are afraid or embarassed to express yourself; the issue is of no importance to you; or you feel that making any expression will have no result on the issue discussed.

Our elected officials are very accessible as a rule. Have you taken time to talk to them ?

Imagine being in a job where you came in every day, but you had no direction or assignment of work to do. Be pretty boring and unchallenging, wouldn't it ?

Challenge your elected officials and candidates to discuss your issues. They do work for you, but without your suggestion and direction they may do what you least want them to.

Watching the City in Action ! LOOK OUT ! More Police Coming to SOHO Area.

Mayor Pam Iorio has been conducting a series of Town Hall type meetings across the city over the past few months. The idea is a simple one: go to the neighborhoods, bring along an impressive array of city administrators with pads and pencils in hand, and listen to the gripes, problems, and concerns of the public, and then : RESPOND.

The Oct. 18th meeting was designed to reach the South and West Tampa neighborhoods. If you have never attended one of these events, you should. It is representative government in action. Some of the attendees came with specific concerns about speed bumps on their street, curbs that are needed, potholes and bumps that need repairs, code enforcement issues (like a neighbor converting part of their home into an additional living unit etc.) , and concerns about congregating young people. Mayor Iorio is one of the best elected officials to conduct this type of Town Meeting. She is knowledgeable and responsive. Most of those issues were responded to by an administrator with an assurance that a personal response would be supplied - in time.

The larger issues are usually presented by Neighborhood Associations or community activitists. Community activists are the conscience of the city. They may speak on any subject imaginable. Issues raised at this meeting included : concerns about the overuse of public surveillance monitors; announcement of plans to oppose major sporting events coming to Hillsborough County due to portrayed discrimination against the Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transexual community; over development and the many problems associated with that issue; and even the concern for the decline of rental housing due to rapidly rising real estate values.

The Courier City neighborhood group expressed concerns about parking problems in the SOHO area. It was acknowledged that plans were already in place to increase Police officers on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights to issue more tickets to violators. The Mayor seemed to have no solution to the parking problems. Concerns about streets being jammed with parked cars and the potential danger created by narrowing streets so that emergency vehicles can not navigate these streets. I asked the Mayor if the goal of this was to raise funds for a new parking garage or for providing expanded mass transit to reduce the demand for parking. Her response was clear: at this time there is no plan for adding any parking to the SOHO area and no plan to add mass transit. When I further challenged about the allowance of more development that is creating greater density and increasing parking needs, theMayor deferred the issue to city administrators. City Council member Linda Saul-Sena, further emphasized the parking problem to the Mayor and administrators. However, if you are looking for the city's solution to this ever increasing problem, the answer may be as clear as the newly written ticket on your windshield.

My general take on the event: people are really concerned about the "appearance" of the City of Tampa and the impact of devlopment. Many commented about lack of landscaping on roadways and many lamented that Tampa was not as pretty as St. Petersburg. Development and roads are on most everyone's minds. Major concerns were expressed by numerous groups concerning the planned development of a condominium/retail project at the corner of Swann and Howard Avenue and the soon to be added traffic. Parking problems in SOHO will be responded to by increasing the amount of parking citations. (doesn't seem like much of a solution to us.)

However, it was my general take on the response that bothered me. Many citizens complained that they had been raising their issue over many years and had received no response. While overall, phone calls seemed to be returned; many calls are still not. It seemed pretty flippant when they heard this: "Well if you have had the problem for 30 years, another 30 days won't matter."

In today's world of instantaneous communication and information, and with the scope of professional administrators; the City needs to be doing a better job of addressing the long term issues of the neighborhoods. (BY THE WAY: no one mentioned the future of the Tampa Museum of Art - maybe the neighborhoods would rather have the money spent on those curbs and potholes that they deal with every day instead) What do you think ?

Ybor City and Its Challenges

This past weekend while attending a Buc's party, I was gently attacked by an Ybor business owner about how we clearly did not support Ybor City and its efforts. I listened intently and took the comments to heart.

The fact is: I really like Ybor. The rich history and culture reflected in the architecture and character is magnificent to say the least.

The District is working to return Ybor from a reputation as being a party and club district to more of a cultural and business district. That is a great idea. With the many great clubs and restaurants that seem to dominate the area, it is sad that the daytime business isn't stronger than it is. In fact, Ybor doesn't start to happen until 10 pm at best.

With camera and pencil in hand, off I went to see the Ybor Renaissance of ARTS YBOR, a planned Second Wednesday of the Month event designed to showcase the arts and retail side of the area. The galleries offer some creative works in a comfortable atmosphere. Many shops are located in restored old homes that are works of art in themselves.

There was no one there. Business leaders seemed to be invisible. Even though the publicity for the event had been pretty extensive, there was just no one there. The supposed leadership was missing. No real effort by the Ybor Chamber of Commerce. No real effort by the businesses in the district.

At this time, Ybor City is a night time bar and restaurant district with retail shops that cater to that market and nothing more. Unfortunately, due to previous problems of violence, that image is not going to attract the crowd that the districts business leaders are seeking. A meeting of the minds needs to be held - with all businesses represented - to decide the direction of Ybor City. Or the so-called business leaders need to accept Ybor as it is. As a ship without a rudder, this magnificent part of Tampa's heritage will never reach its real potential. What a shame.

How do we keep it all straight ?

TAMPAGOLD.COM is now providing an automated Calender of Events with a committment to be the Best Calendar in the Tampa Area. Eric Sturm, former calender manager from Verve Tampa Bay, will be managing our site. We are seeking your input ! Check out our calendar and have a look. Regardless of the type of event, we are committed to keeping you informed !

Visit Our Calendar here.

There's Nothing Like Professionals

The recent city of Tampa sponsored event at the Tampa Convention Center to bring out comments on Mayor Iorio's Riverwalk idea was truly an event to be savoured.

The hired guns from EDAW clearly showed their expertise and professionalism in lots of different ways. First, their previous projects were diverse, creative, and substantial. Second, their presentation was clear and precise without being arrogant or dictatotial. Third, when they indicated they wanted public input it seemed sincere. BUT most of all, they were informed about and prepared to dance through the maze of local issues that could send the Riverwalk up the river.

When one of the Tampa Museum of Art's riverfront site proponents took a swat at the plan, these EDAW professionals recognized the incoming attack for what it was and responded with a clear indication that the Museum was not their issue, but that their expertise would make the Museum, at whatever location, a part of the Riverwalk connectivity plan. (see more pictures from the meeting here)

With her popularity chart starting to rival President Bush's poll results, Mayor Iorio has committed herself to "creating Tampa's premier attraction."

All she needs is to: 1. keep the Art Museum backers happy; 2. keep the Kiley Park supporters happy; 3. overcome problems created by being on a navigable river with security issues and bridges of various heights, 4. have a design/concept that is liked by everyone;

AND, of course, 5. Find the $20 plus million required to make this happen.

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

The problems of the levees in New Orleans had been known for years. The biggest problem was the failure of the people and the politicians to be willing to bite the financial bullet and make the levees safe.

Now California is examining the same type of issue. With their levees in an earthquake prone area, the proposed cost to bring the levees up to a sufficient safe zone is over $ 1 Billion dollars. That is a lot ! But nothing like the potential disaster if it is not done.

The bill for the repair of the Gulf Coast will be over $200 Billion.

Unfortunately, money does not grow on trees 0r in vineyards. President Bush has been one of the most fiscally irresponsible leaders in our country's history. Hard to believe from a purported conservative, Republican administration.

Republican rhetoric has called the Democrats "taxers and spenders" while under this administration the Republicans have just plain been "spenders" saddling us with a huge debt at the wrong time.

While launching two war fronts, the mislead war in Iraq and the almost forgotten war in Afghanistan, he has engineered tax cuts for the rich resulting in large budget deficits. Now when we need dollars to respond to the largest disaster affecting the American people, the money is not there, except by borrowing even more. When we needed the National Guard to save the Homeland, many were overseas.

The pictures from hurricane affected American streets and neighborhoods make the scenes from Lebanon, Iraq, Somalia, and other combat zones look pretty tame. Hard to look at bodies lying on the side of the road - for days - and not thinking that this can't be happening in America.

We wish a new electionwas close at hand. We need fresh, new, bold leadership with creativity and vision to get America back on track.

The believers still say, "Bush did a better job than Kerry would have done." Maybe, maybe not; but with a forgotten war on the real bad guys that killed thousands of innocent Americans on 9/11, with a falsely justified war on Iraq, with a fiscally irresponsible budgetary policy, and now with the failure of the federal government to quickly and effectively respond to a natural disaster that we could see coming, giving Kerry or anyone else a chance to do better seems like a reasonable idea. We aren't going to talk about the budget surpluses during the Clinton administration or the fact that more Americans are falling into poverty since George W. took office. We aren't even going to be partisan, give us a different Republican - just give us someone different.

A COMPARISON TO THINK ABOUT

The damage assessment for the area affected by Hurricane Katrina is 90,000 square miles. Sometime this week it is projected that 54,000 federal troops will be on the ground to help this devastated part of our country. OR .60 federal troop member per square mile.

Iraq is almost 169,000 square miles in area. According to CNN, we have 138,000 troops in Iraq. OR .81 federal troop member per square mile.

That does not include Afghanistan or any other assigned locations. Think about it.

LET'S DO THIS !

There will be plenty of blame going around concerning the handling/mishandling of the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. BUT the people without food/water or without a place to go, really do not care about blame for now. They just want the basics that a country like ours should provide.

It is clear that the dangers of the levees were made public years ago. Whether possible or not, when you want help, you want it NOW !

Florida should be re examining all of our disaster scenarios and plans. That is the job our professionals are paid to do.

For the immediate need of desperate families, why shouldn't Tampa make available the empty Fort Homerly Hesterly Armory for temporary housing ? This building could be a great temporary shelter. While it might not be a first class hotel, it is dry and conveniently located for people in need.

Why should we do this ? Because we can.

This property on North Howard Avenue is empty and convenient. The property is still in transition from the National Guard to the City of Tampa. Elvis, Gordon Solie and every wrestler that ever visited this building would surely approve of this use.

Tampa's day for a similar disaster may come some day, wouldn't you want it done for you ?

Call upon Mayor Iorio to respond by clicking here.

AND WHETHER YOU AGREE WITH US OR NOT -
Give to the RED CROSS NOW by clicking here. OR Give to the Bush Clinton Katrina Fund by clicking here.
OR drop off your donations at the St. Pete Times Forum
OR TO SEND A PACKAGE DIRECTLY, Send to REFUGEES - Astrodome -8400 Kirby Drive, Houston, TX 77054. Mark on the front of the package what is enclosed to assist in distribution.

IT COULD HAVE BEEN US !

Just as during the 9/11 disaster, we are all afforded the amazing ability to get a news (including pictures) immediately of the New Orleans - Gulf Coast disaster caused by Hurricane Katrina.

The TOTAL devastation is incredible. It could have been us.

Hurricane Charley threatened to come right up Tampa Bay, the worst scenario for us according to local planners.

You have to feel the pain of the many displaced people you see on news broadcasts.

The power of the internet is evident again when I realize that if this had happened to me I could be located, in time, by my internet address. I could communicate with worried friends and family from some stray location - assuming I had survived.

Help these people get out of the disaster zone to where they can be safe and can communicate again.

NOW is the time to help these survivors. Tampa groups have already started planning fundraisers and contribution drops. This is great - BUT do something NOW !

Give to the RED CROSS NOW ! As I listen to the news I hear a reporter saying "people are dying now. A man is laying dead on the sidewalk and no one is doing anything."

PEOPLE LAYING DEAD ON THE STREET IN THE U.S.

Local groups doing things to help are great ! But a week will be too late for many people.

GIVE TO THE RED CROSS NOW ! They are waiting for your call. 800-HELPNOW or
Click here.