A New Yorker was driving through Berkeley when he saw a big crowd gathered by the side of the street.

A New Yorker was driving through Berkeley when he saw a big crowd gathered
by the side of the street. Curiousity got the better of him and he leaned
out of his window to ask an onlooker what was going on. The fellow explained
that a protestor against the U.S. position in South America had doused
himself with gasoline and set himself on fire. "That's terrible," gasped
the man. "But why is everyone still standing around?"
"Well, they're taking up a collection for his wife and kids," the
onlooker explained. "Would you be willing to help?"
"Well, sure," replied the New Yorker. "I suppose I could spare a
gallon or two."