I have spent a lot of time watching the news lately. It is so sad to see the devastation down in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. It is so tragic to see so many lives lost, and so many people suffering.

The reports have been gut-wrenching. I know I have spent many great moments in that area of the country, including the Final Four in New Orleans a few years back.

It is so difficult to watch this happen in our own country. Now it is time for all of us to help out. If you have ever been to a Super Bowl down there, or the Final Four, or any sporting event, please give.

For all of those media members who have been fortunate enough to work an event down there ... anybody who has ever been able to hold a microphone and excel on TV, please come through.

I ask all of you to donate at 1-800-HELP-NOW. There are so many people in need in that region.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in 1979. Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.