Katrina Aftermath

Hey, all! Sorry for the lack of updates, but I have been VERY busy. I do appreciate all the phone calls and emails complaining about my lack of updates, though!

Now, I have much to say, but pressing matters take priority.

In light of the massive destruction and heartache left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, there are TWO ways you can help the American Red Cross and your fellow citizens. Well, three if you count saying a prayer...

The first, is to make a donation. If you can spare some cash, please click here:

Red Cross Donation

They are accepting any amount. They are just desperate for your help. If you prefer giving blood, please call 1-800-448-3543.

But there is something else you can do that would greatly aid the Red Cross in the future: You can be better prepared.

Look, there will be plenty of time to analyze why so many people failed to heed the warning and flee this massive storm that was heading their way. I have a feeling this event will serve as a lesson for all. But disasters can strike anywhere at any time. A hurricane or tropical storm down South. A tornado or a blizzard here in the Midwest. An earthquake out West. Sometimes, disasters strike without warning or circumstances prevent a person's ability to flee.

As you watch the futility of rescue workers attempting to help those in need coupled with dwindling supplies you have to be struck by how much less pain there might have been if only people would have heeded the Red Cross BEFORE the storm. You can't rein in nature, but you can be better prepared.

How prepared would you be if you faced a natural disaster tomorrow? Even if you maintained a roof over your head, how would you and your family fare in a sudden absence of fresh water, phone service and electricity? Do you have any nonperishable food supplies in reserve? How about an emergency medical kit that someone hasn't pilfered all of the bandages out of? Do the batteries in your flashlight work?

Go here:

Be Prepared!

Everything you need to know to be prepared is right there. While this horrible disaster and the human suffering is still foremost in your mind, take some time this weekend and put a kit together. Collect what you need and put it in a plastic storage container that you can tuck away in the basement so that when disaster strikes your world, your family will have a fighting chance. And you might be one less victim for the Red Cross to have to worry about in the short-term aftermath of a major disaster.

More later!

Mark