The world of sports gives time and money

Like everyone else, I've been following the tragedy that devastated our Gulf Coast. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people have been killed. Even more are without homes, and several great U.S. cities will likely never be the same. In times such as these, we find out just how compassionate Americans can be.

Although athletes and other sports figures are often viewed as greedy, pampered prima donnas, the sports world has stepped up to the plate.

New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner has donated $1 million to the American Red Cross

The NFL has donated $1 million to the relief effort, with more donations to come.

Brett Favre and Steve McNair (both Mississippi natives) are filling up tractor-trailers with supplies and sending them to Mississippi.

Houston Texans owner Bob McNair will match Houston's donations, up to $1 million, to help in the recovery.

Tennis star Serena Williams will donate $100 for each ace she has for the remainder of the year.

The PGA Tour is in the process of setting up a huge fundraiser expected to bring in $3 million to $5 million.

Baron Davis (former New Orleans Hornets star) has donated $50,000 to aid in the recovery.

Shaquille O'Neal, an LSU graduate, traveled to Baton Rouge to help people who are without homes.

These are just a few of the great things that the sports world is doing to help the people of the Gulf Coast. This is one of the biggest tragedies in U.S. history, and the death toll will undoubtedly continue to rise. We also get to see the characteristics that make our country great, though. We come together when our fellow Americans are in need, and I'm sure the rest of the country will help those affected by Hurricane Katrina rebuild their cities and restart their lives.

It is good to see that the sports world is playing a small part.