Katrina-Bush and the political questions begin

Clever Walter.

...

One strong impression I got from this information is that a clever woman has found a use for A2K to support her "charity" efforts and in spreading her mission and philosophy, including her fund raising efforts.

Now I could be all wrong about my impressions and conclusions. If I am, then I'm prepared to apologize.

I guess my question to Momma Angel is: Are you using A2K to further your self-interests and the mission of your "charity?"

BBB

Recovery from Andrew would be slow. In the days immediately following Andrew, tens of thousands of survivors faced unsanitary and uncomfortable living conditions with no power and a very limited supply of fresh food and water.

Two weeks after the hurricane, the U.S. military deployed some 22,000 troops to aid in the recovery efforts, the largest military rescue operation in U.S. history. Rows of tents sprung up where houses and trailers once stood. Long lines of people waited hours for hot meals.

I happen to be one of those that do not believe women should be in politics, especially in seats such as governor. I KNOW! Now, don't faint! It is scientific fact that women and men think from the opposite sides of their brains. And, (IMO) it is very hard for women to keep their personal emotions out of situations. I did not vote for Governor Blanco?

American Red Cross was a major contributor to the recovery of Hurricane Andrew. In response to the disaster, over 12,000 Red Cross volunteers from all 50 states, along with aid workers from Canada, Mexico, and Colombia rushed to relieve those who were affected by the storm. Working around the clock, Red Cross contributed roughly $81.5 million in aid, provided safe refuge for more than 85,000 evacuees, served over 4.7 million meals and snacks, financially assisted over 60,000 families in need of survival items (food, clothing, and medicine), and distributed over 42,000 comfort kits.

In addition to Red Cross, the National Guard provided recovery assistance. In Homestead, one of the hardest hit areas, the National Guard set up a tent city, providing refuge-water, food, and shelter to those affected. The Guard also provided security from looters for after they cleaned out local shopping centers they turned on their neighbors.

Two weeks after the hurricane, the U.S. military deployed some 22,000 troops to aid in the recovery efforts, the largest military rescue operation in U.S. history. Rows of tents sprung up where houses and trailers once stood. Long lines of people waited hours for hot meals.

TUESDAY, Aug. 25--Secretary Singletary was able to fly into the area and arrange for transportation to Dade CI and SFRC. He and several staff members arrived to a scene of massive destruction. The total devastation was apparent all along the route to Dade CI and the impact was overwhelming. Secretary Singletary was able to get to the institution to meet with the staff and to survey the damage.

Initial calls to the Central Office indicated an immediate need for water, ice and food supplies for staff in the south Dade area. Additionally, assistance was needed to cover roofs, secure files in probation and parole, and establish a plan for clean-up and reconstruction of the damaged buildings.

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 26--Statewide calls were being received offering assistance and donations to the staff victims. Messages were sent out that the department would initiate a fund for distribution in Region IV for those who had lost their homes and property. Each region established a contact person to accept donations and coordinate the delivery of non-perishable foods, clothes, furniture and money.

Statewide donations began to accumulate. Thousands of dollars had already been collected. The Secretary and the staff members who had traveled with him were each making calls to arrange for recovery efforts. Water trucks, refrigeration trucks, supplies, etc., were difficult to locate. The state of Georgia was contacted and they agreed to send a refrigeration truck which would be met at the Georgia/Florida line and driven by DC staff to south Florida.

Mobile homes were located and contract negotiations on delivery and set-up began in an effort to provide housing as quickly as possible.

THURSDAY, Aug. 27--Help did begin arriving. Water and ice were being delivered and the first trucks with non-perishable food products arrived.

Prison Rehabilitative Industries and Diversified Enterprises (PRIDE) allowed the Department the use of all trucks to make deliveries and worked with staff to coordinate the trips.

South Carolina volunteered assistance. Georgia also offered additional assistance. We received calls from Alabama and Connecticut.

Martin CI, Region IV community facilities, probation and parole office and the regional office were all established as distribution points for the donations.

FRIDAY, Aug. 28--SFRC ingeniously rigged a shower system utilizing a fire hose so that inmates could be showered. It was very successful and from all reports, had a tremendous impact on morale. It signaled the first step in the road to recovery.