Visiting celebrities

[phorsenuf]

I was just reading in the paper that Gloria Estafan and some other Latino celebrities were going down to visit the evacuees. Oprah has been there, Harry Connick Jr and various other celebs and sports stars.

Could somebody explain to me why? I know they go to help and "cheer" people up and show their support, but why? I mean why wait for a tragedy? Why don't any of these celebs visit them any day of the week? If they care so much shouldn't they care all the time?

You never hear of them going to the ninth ward to say hello to the folks that live there. Is it just publicity? I don't get it.

P.S. I said Latino celebrities above because thats how it read in the paper. She was leading a Latino contingincy (sp). I make this disclaimer because I was having flashbacks to the NJ guy! LOL

 

[Planogirl]

I assume that people devastated by Katrina need more cheering up than people just having a normal day. I'm glad that they're coming. I want to see the interest continue until everything is rebuilt

As for Gloria Estefan, I don't know her personally but she doesn't seem to be the type to have ulterior motives.

 

[inaminute]

I don't have a problem with celebrities going to areas that have been devastated, BUT they should bring their own security. It appears that they all have local police escorting them around. It would seem that these officers might have better things to do than escort celebrities around the devastation--especially in New Orleans.

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I believe they are going to shelters and stuff...I'm under the impression--and expect they would sing or something....b/c this group is all singers...but I could be wrong. If they are singing...it reminds me of a USO tour type thing....something to lift spirits.

 

[wvrevy]

When was the last time Bush - or any politician - visited people in dire straights in their normal lives ? Just like a politician, they can use their fame to help draw attention to what they see as various problems. They can also help to raise people's spirits, which may not be much, but is more than a lot of people could do. Personally, I don't have the least problem with it.

As to security...have you seen the stories of the services that had to be delayed due to Bush's visit ? Please note that I am NOT faulting him for that...it's just one more thing that you have to deal with in a situation like this. Most of the time - in my opinion, anyway - the good outweighs the bad.

 

[LoraJ]

I got this email from Ricky Martin (well, his people) today.





FRIENDS,

To witness thousands of nameless persons in despair is overwhelming. Mother Nature's power makes us feel helpless, at first. But it also reminds us that in times of hardships, unity amongst nationalities is the means, the vehicle to give hope.

Perhaps, I seem like an idealist to many but I believe in alliances. On August 29, Katrina's rage left thousands homeless, killed hundreds, and displaced countless children. As I watched the images, I relived the devastation in Asia after the tsunami. Undoubtedly, in every natural disaster children are always the most vulnerable survivors. To deny them help is unacceptable.

Organizing the agenda to visit Houston was strenuous, yet possible. We made it happen. Now it's time to lend a hand, to the little ones. Thousands of them survived Katrina's fury and they need us. Last Friday, September 9th, we witnessed firsthand the reality that survivors are experimenting in The Astrodome, The Reliant Center, The Playground Center, and theTexas Children's Hospital.

The visit allowed us to understand their suffering, and empathize with their reality. I was able to somewhat comprehend, to be compassionate with my peers' sorrow. Likewise, being in the devastated zone strengthened the Foundation's relationship with other international and local organizations. Only together, we can draw the route to meet the real needs of the survivors.

Talking and exchanging ideas bridges communication. By asking and listening, many answers surfaced. And step by step, we create windows of opportunities for the well-being of a global agenda, our common thread. Details of what I felt, and feel will be shared in the coming days. In Thailand, our Foundation witnessed the rebirth of a country. Their strength, their hope moves us.

I am very thankful for all your support. Everyone who joined the crusade nurtured their spirit. But now we must aid the children who survived Katrina. I know you will help us help others. I will also like to share that the Foundation partnered with Banco Popular of Puerto Rico to give children clothes, shoes, educational games, and diapers. These items will be collected next week (September 15 & 16) in all branches that the bank has in Puerto Rico and various in the United States.

We also launched the LIFE for the Katrina CHILDREN Relief Fund at the www.rickymartinmusic.com to alleviate the burden that children, continue to experience during the aftermath.

Thanks. Gracias. Together we evolve
Ricky

 

[Robinrs]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=899948&highlight=celebrities

Be darned if they do and darned if they don't.

 

[ToriLammy]

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=899948&highlight=celebrities

Be darned if they do and darned if they don't.

Well at least we're equal opportunity - our politicians get the same kind of treatment/expectations Regardless of the group you'll find someone with something positive to say and another someone with something negative - it's just the nature of the beast.

 

[JimB.]

if their presence does not create a burden on anyone, and they can brighten someone's day, and if their presence can encourage more aid & $$ coming in, it's OK by me.

IMHO, that's what celebs can do best, not run around in boats getting in the way.

If Oprah gets more $$ for these poor folks, go for it. Hope she donates some of her own, too...................................