In a city of over a million people, where the government's employees - the leadership and the rescue agencies - have also been affected by the tragedy, the Federal Govermnment is stepping in, it is so easy for us, who are safe in our homes, to point fingers and second guess what needs to be or should have been done. I think this is SO overwhelming that it will tax our NATIONAL resources no matter how much money we donate it will not be enough. We haven't see the disease factor set in yet.

I remember the aftermath of the Northridge Earthquake and we were told to have 5 days supplies and preparations in case of disaster and to be prepared to be on our own. We had NO Warning of danger. Many of the people CHOSE to stay behind even with a number of days notice.

Compound that with those who are opportunists and without moral - most undeducated and poor who have felt this is their chance to have and a crowd mentality of if they can do it so can I. Just like if you get a traffic ticket in a construction zone, the fine is doubled here, the penalty should be swift and severe. On the news last night one of the victims coming out of a hotel being evacuated on Canal Street was manhandled by muggers and her husband had to step in. They were stealing the watch off of her arm.

We have to be prepared to help oursevles, but, many of those who were stuck did not heed the initial warnings. And those who did remain who have no sense of decency - they will deserve what they get because it will be useless. Hopefully they will be caught.