A second winner: faith-based groups. I've written in previous weeks about what they've accomplished, but here's a new wrinkle: The feds announced that groups which operated emergency shelters, food distribution centers or medical facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama can now be reimbursed for their out-of-pocket emergency expenses, such as purchasing goods for distribution to evacuees.

 Most groups don't want government funds because they are working out of love for God (and also want to avoid political entanglements and preserve their volunteer donor base), but it's good that religious groups have the same choice that secular groups possess. Volunteers will not receive any pay, but here's an opportunity for government to provide the resources that compassionate citizens need so as to contribute their time in the most useful way.

 A third winner: the importance of individual preparedness. During the Rita evacuation, many coastal residents headed inland without food, water or extra gas, thinking they could buy what they needed on the road. They were wrong. Everyone should have a "grab-and-go" backpack with water bottles, medicines, cash or traveler's checks, and other necessities, along with a three-day supply of food.

 Maps, planned-in-advance escape routes and destinations, and an extra 5 gallons of gas can also come in handy. Those in hurricane, tornado and earthquake zones have the most obvious need, but the next terrorist attack could be anywhere.