I'm sitting here in my nice warm house and feeling a little guilty and lucky that I am once again not subject to nature's fury. I am watching the news and seeing the selfless acts of compassion that neighbors extend to each other in these times of need. It is heartwarming and provides hope for the future of humanity.
I am also outraged by the actions of people who would take advantage of these tragedies by looting and showing disrespect to the property of people who are suffering. It is just impossible to imagine people exploiting the helplessness of families in these situations.
Though our nation is mostly composed of good people who take care of each other, we need to do more. It is time to add a new crime to the books that makes looting in these situations a major felony that requires mandatory jail time. No plea bargains. Perhaps federal crimes would be best since these actions seem to happen nationally.
I'm very proud of our government response, which has been well-planned and has set politics aside.
MIKE NARDOLILLO
Altamont
