As a former manager for the Magnolia Net for three years and having been involved in many instances of providing emergency communications, people should know that many HAMS do just that; provide communications and assistance communicating where needed. We have also provided power generators for power in the event of ice storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. And this is done free with hams providing all of their or the clubs time and equipment. To me this is one of the best examples of HAM radio, the willingness to do what is needed, for and by the authorities in charge, responding to the needs of the people for no recompense except the knowledge of helping, when needed. It is a team effort because as one can easily see from the headlines, a disaster, natural or otherwise, can at times, overcome the ability and resources of most any one group. By working together, each in their own area of expertise, people as a whole will benefit.