Cunningham’s CornerFree Access

Summer’s End


 

 

My sister was trapped in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina (12 years ago now!), and I confess to watching hurricanes a bit more carefully since. Incredible power. And, a prime example to watch of how government responds.

From early accounts, Texas clearly seems to be up to the challenge with Harvey. But it’s a massive one. Houston is the nation’s fourth-largest city. Its elevation in parts is mere feet above sea level. The flooding will go on for days. I was struck by the broadcast reporter who had seen a man trapped in a semi-tractor on the road below her, talked with him about staying safe and the water’s depth around him, then flagged down a passing sheriff’s boat to assist in the rescue.

In September 1965, President Lyndon Johnson flew to New Orleans after Hurricane Betsy. “I am here because I wanted to see with my own eyes what the unhappy alliance of wind and water have done to this land and its people,” he said. And, ever direct, “This is your president! I’m here to help you!”

Less remarked is that LBJ had to be convinced to get down there, by then-Sen. Russell Long of Louisiana. Long was successful; less than 3 hours after his phone call to LBJ in the White House, Air Force One was lifting off from Andrews.

In Katrina, my sister and her husband made it out safely, but it was grim for some days. Early on, she had at first told my mother that it wasn’t too bad; the hurricane was whipping the potted plants around outside. My mother said, “Mary, it hasn’t even hit yet.” It would, of course, get much worse.

No one wants, very badly, to spend money on boring infrastructure. Witness New York state and the subways. The levees, the subways, the pumps, the planning: They’re a big deal.

Until next week.

Douglas Cunningham is editor and publisher. Reach him at editor@pcnr.com. Letters to the editor are welcome; please limit to 500 words or less and email by 9 am Monday. To reach us by phone, call 845-265- 2468. Campaign letters are also welcome, but stick to 500 words or less.

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