Earlier, someone was blasting people from out of state for commenting about the storm on this thread. I thought it inappropraite.
I hope for the best in Florida.
I agree with you that it's inappropriate to criticize people for showing an interest in other areas. Most people have friends, relatives or at least acquiantances who have lived in Florida or visited at some time and would also be interested even if they are not living in the area. It is truly strange here when they close the theme parks (as they did yesterday) or waive the tolls on the Turnpike. It's spooky because it's so rare. If you ever visit here and see them doing either of those things, take it cereally (sp on purpose).