The total cost from the wide path of devastation left by Hurricane Katrina may not be known for quite some time. Homelessness and unemployment could reach devastating proportions. At present, losses are projected at between $15 and $25 billion. However, revenue deficits from the gaming industry which account for one-third of Mississippi's income, have not been taken into account. No one really has all of the facts to present a clear picture of the residual amount of damage to our economy. Loss of gaming taxes alone could cost Mississippi some $400,000 to $500,000 a day. Casinos generated $2.7 billion last year. As they wait for news of how the 12
gulf coast casinos weathered Hurricane Katrina, the fate of Fourteen-thousand gaming industry employees is in question.
Aside for the 10 to 20 thousand refugees inside the Superdome, thousands of others have evacuated to other areas and have now been left homeless. As the waters continue to rise, many more may be forced to evacuate rescue camps as conditions continue to deteriorate. Aside for the 10 to 20 thousand refugees inside the Superdome, thousands of others have evacuated to other areas and have now been left homeless. As the waters continue to rise, many more may be forced to evacuate rescue camps as conditions continue to deteriorate.
The cost of gasoline is now expected to top $3.00 per gallon (The drivers of Hummers, Expeditions and Navigators especially love this part). Louisiana accounts for about 10 percent of the nation's overall import capacity of one million barrels daily. Pipelines to markets in the Northeast and Midwest are now closed and can't resume until power is restored. Not only are gas-guzzling SUV's affected, but the Airline industry as well. According to the Air Transport Authority, jet fuel production has been cut by 13 percent because of Katrina.
"The looting is out of control. The French Quarter has been attacked," said city Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson. "We're using exhausted, scarce police to control looting when they should be used for search and rescue while we still have people on rooftops."
It is time for a reality check. We must demand an immediate end to our occupation of Iraq and bring the troops home to help restore order here. Our concern regarding the stability of Iraq should not overshadow the stability of our country in its dire time of need. By showing leadership, the President must put his political objectives aside and consider the needs of American citizens first, over those of the Iraqi's. Let's bring `em home now!
