Day 9

Got a lot done today. Caseworkers won't give clients money. They have placed to go and we'll only give them $30 of gas. Not even a full tank. Ubsurd. No one wanted to give them $$$ or gas cards because someone might buy beer with it. Heaven forbid if a few out of the hundreds who have called bought a 6 pack.

I got on the internet at 4:30 and found the company that makes the cards for all of the major oil companies. Got a call back at 5:30--yes, he can make us a bazillion cards that won't buy liquor orrrrr lottery tickets. I hadn't even thought of that. We're going to order $30,000 in $50 cards. That's only 600.

I have a wonderful husband. He's so amazing. We were talking about the shelter. He's now working the night shift. He said at night, it's really peaceful. People snoring. Big, rough men sleeping while holding their tiny baby on their chest. He said he feels like he's an angel in "Wings of Desire." (artsy German film--almost "film noir"--with Peter Falk--beautiful movie)Last night a toddler started fussing. He pulled the blanket up to the child's chin to quiet the baby--like he did to our so many times.

The news keeps reporting about the toxicity of the water. Why is this such a big surprise to everyone. Even on a normal summer day, the French Quarter reeks of sewerage.

Hillary is taking dance lessons. I thought I needed to do that for her. It's way too far out but she's such a great kid. I can't do much for her, but this I can try to do.

I've got lots of media set up for Thursday and Friday. Have to set up a press conference on Monday. Lots and lots going on. Gotta go. No one has any clean clothes.

One more thing--My mom's best friend has been running a small shelter east of here. About 60 evacuees. She's been having folks cook for them everyday. Red Cross is coming in to organize them. He said they've been to easy on them. From now on, it's MRE's for everyone. Man must have ice water running through his veins. Will he eat MRS's too? These people have had it so good. Free transportation, free housing, free food--they planned it so well. Except for that part about thousands of deaths, horrible rescue conditions, losing all of their possessions, neighborhoods destroyed, not being able to get in touch with friends and family. Yeah--we've been waaaaay to easy on them. Free loaders. The red cross guy needs to live in the Super Dome for a week. A vacation!

Oh--by the way--Bush is a fool.