Surgery firm Inamed Aesthetics had six surgeons carrying out free consultations on topics ranging from breast implants and wrinkle treatments to a new procedure to help weight loss by inserting a saline-filled balloon inside the patient's stomach.
Some of the changes for volunteers include a physical fitness test, lessons in the physics of balloon-handling and a free three-month gym membership to help them shape up.
Free newspapers were available, National Guard troops kept watch, ventriloquists and balloon artists entertained kids, and even massage therapists were trying to help the 12, 000 to 15, 000 evacuees relax as they fretted about the fate of their homes.