Our government is set up to serve all of its people, provide leadership and help resolve problems, concerns and difficulties that we face. In light of the recent Hurricane Katrina devastation, one wonders what the priorities are in this country.

It’s admirable to help other nations. However, we must not neglect people here at home. Folks from other countries have commented about this. What kind of message are we sending the world when we are slow to respond to the needs of our own people?

Thankfully, the compassionate nature of America is responding to those from the Gulf Coast area. NASCAR sponsors, drivers, owners, crew and fans have contributed over $4 million raised in about two days. The contributions continue. States are providing money, medical help, housing, blood and other aid to those who desperately need it.

Hurricane Katrina’s damage is another wake-up call. America is not exempt from serious problems and nature’s damage. Shouldn’t our leaders put much better preventative measures in place as well as better communication practices?

Americans continue to pay the freight for our government’s spending habits. Government needs to be responsible and responsive to the needs of all of its people in a timely manner.

People are far more important than things. Let’s keep our priorities straight.

Peggy A. Belkenny, Auburn