>Hi Mike,
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>All is not in vain. It was partly your message that prompted me and my wife to join a group from our church in Ct that will be going to Gulfport, MS in May. It will be the third trip for some of the group but the first for Judy and me. Can't say I'm looking forward to living "commune" style for a week but it certainly won't kill me.
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>Ken
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>>A couple of weeks ago, in a moment of wild optimism, I floated the idea of a UT relief mission to the Gulf Coast. There was exactly one volunteer, Dan LeClair (thanks, Dan), so I am officially letting that idea go. What I wanted to say before leaving it behind completely is please have an open mind the next time catastrophe strikes. The week I spent in Houston was exhausting but unbelievably rewarding to me. It's not an exaggeration to say it changed my outlook on life.
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>>There is always a reason to say no, or should I say not say yes. We all have our lives and our everyday commitments. That part is a PITA and I won't lie to you. But once you take the plunge, it's very rewarding.
>>
>>Mike



I went down to the coast three different times carrying supplies and assistance to the Ocean Springs, MS police department. I also arranged two other trips of relief for them and other Sheriff's Offices and Police Depts. Several of the UT members sent me money for the effort and the officers really appreciated the help. I also had about 30 officers here ready to go down for a relief effort, but our Sheriff and Police Director wouldn't allow them to go. They claimed FEMA's red tape was preventing it. Oh well, it didn't stop us from delivering the goods and presents for kids at Christmas. It was a rewarding experience.