Betty and List, You're absolutely right. These people need our help NOW! I work for a film and video production company in Houston, Texas and have heard the stories, firsthand, from the refugees arriving here at the Astrodome. Our stories and work have been on CNN, FOX News and the 700 Club. I've also been in communication with several of our freelance camera operators and sound techs that are working for the different TV networks that are in New Orleans and Gulfport. The problem is immediate and whatever you can do; donations of cash, clothing, food or volunteering your time to any relief organization will help the most. Regardless of the political situation these people are in dire need of your assistance now and in the weeks to come. Your local churches and civic organizations can start food drives, collect benevolence offerings, be a gathering point for used and new clothing but it most start now and with all of us. The people that have been affected have lost everything; homes ,cars, jobs, places of employment and worship, as well as relatives and friends. As amateur genealogists we've all wondered what had happened to a specific ancestor, why they've disappeared, vanished off the face of the earth. This is one of those times where hundreds or even thousands of people will never be heard from again and not a trace of them will be seen. this is one for the history books. Whole communities along the Gulf Coast are gone, completely wiped out, decimated. And with it the infrastructure and the people. Turn on the TV and most of the Networks have a list of the relief agencies that can use your help and the assistance of your community. Sincerely, Steve Goyette Production Manager South Coast Film & Video Houston, Texas 800/229-3550