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Sep 8, 2005 5:45 pm US/Eastern
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Evacuees Spend First Day In Philly Resting
by Robin Mackintosh
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
The first round of Hurricane Katrina evacuees, who arrived Wednesday at Philadelphia International Airport, spent their first night in the City of Brotherly Love resting.
The 38 men and women found out mid-flight they were they were headed. Once I reached Philadelphia it was good," said evacuee Christian Bauer.
The evacuees received preliminary treatment before being transported to the shelter where they were greeted by many volunteers from around the city. "We didn't expect a welcome like this," evacuee Aloyd Edinburgh said.
The temporary shelter was set up in the old Wannamaker School at 11th and Cecil B. Moore. Cots were placed in old classrooms, but not all of the evacuees were able to utilize them.
Jennifer Bernett says she can't sleep, "It's scary… If I don't keep myself busy I start crying." Three of Bernett's children are missing and two others are still seeking shelter in Houston's Astrodome.
Bernett acknowledges leaving was difficult but she says, "It's a fresh start, when I get my kids here I can give them a new life."
Vietnam Veteran George Jackson camped out on his roof for five days before being rescued, "Water was everywhere… you could see dead bodies."
Although Jackson is grateful for the hospitality he has received here, he plans to return home. "Once you've experienced New Orleans you will go back," Jackson said. "We have to get ready for Mardi Gras."
For many, like Jackson, the move to Philadelphia is just temporary. For others, like Jennifer Bernett, it is their new home.
(© MMV, CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.)