The loss of critical gasoline flows from the U.S. Gulf Coast to the Northeast in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina will stress markets over the next few weeks, even as the summer driving season ends.

There are 26 refineries in the Texas-Gulf Coast area that are potentially in the path of this hurricane.

I'm from the gulf coast of Louisiana.

Hurricane Katrina exposed the harsh reality that we have been skating on thin ice when it comes to this country's energy concentrations on the Gulf Coast.

I'm sure each one of you share my horror and disbelief over devastation along the Gulf Coast in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. I urge each one of you to place a bid, as much as you can afford for this worthwhile cause.

Hurricane Katrina wasn't done when she unleashed her fury on America's Gulf Coast, wiping out New Orleans and devastating other coastal areas. She also dealt a severe body blow to consumer confidence across the board.