[centralnewyorki]

Originally Posted by bettyeanne

Thank you, Marlee! I totally agree with you ... I would've done the same thing! We have friends who evacuated ... they certainly aren't wealthy, just intelligent! Also, the Federal government cannot step in until the State government proclaims a "state of emergency"! ... at least that is what I was told.

Sorry, bettyanne, but I don't think it's right to insinuate that everyone who was left in N.O. wasn't intelligent to know to leave. Thousands were elderly and those living with disabilities were physically NOT ABLE to leave. For the people that are able-bodied and chose not to leave, yes, it wasn't the smartest decision. But the entire population of people that chose not to leave wasn't stupid. What about single mothers with more children than could be carried? Would you expect a young child to walk 40 or 50 miles to safety? Be thankful your friends were able to evacuate- some weren't so lucky.