Salem Katrina Team Update October 27

They're working like demons (can we say that?) in Gautier, getting more done now that the weather has remained dry for awhile and the temperatures are so much more comfortable. Today was slightly overcast and the evenings are getting plain cold!

Shown on the left is the "average" business sign typical for Gautier these days, post-Katrina. But those golden arches and other signs of normal business life are certain to return.

I raised the thought of donating some of our budget for the earthquake victims in Pakistan, and thank goodness for good advice from Morella and others who pointed out that we're morally bound to use donations we solicit only for the purposes for which the donor made the gift. Thank you, thank you and many more thank you's for keeping our ethics on the straight and narrow with your sound advice.

Tonight we continued to load the U-Haul with tools and donations, including a TV set, stereo, empty tool chest, manual wheelchair and other items. We had fun loading the stuffed animals donated by staff and patients of Willamette Medical Center. A very happy Paula and Ruth Anne, plus two very, very tired husbands after unloading their truck of toys. Did I mention...they also donated $100 towards our team's expenses. Thanks guys!!

As to the budget, both Karen and Rick mentioned that they've heard about some more gifts, over $500 additional. That's great as we will probably need a couple ladders, garden carts and other items once we're down there, plus the tent city "mayor" Matt Shepherd has requested money or gift cards for Lowe's and Wal-Mart for purchase of building materials.

Evergreen Presbyterian Church in Pensacola, Florida has been a model of Katrina relief. In addition to profoundly useful items such as 700 gallons of diesel fuel, they've donated over $14,000 in cash. Here's their link which you'll find great reading: http://www.evergreenpres.net/Katrina%20Relief.htm