More Hurricane Ike Stuff
Here’s an update on Houston/Galveston post Hurrcane Ike . . .
Schools are out for the week. Most schools sustained little or no structural damage, but some are still lacking electricity or suffering electrical problems due to power surges.
Half of my neighborhood is still without electricity. We’re running an extension cord across the street to our neighbors so they can run their refrigerator.
Based on what I’m seeing on the news, lack of refrigeration is the primary concern in these parts. Grocery stores have rows of freezer cases which are taped off until they can dispose of their contents (which thawed during the power outage). Lines are forming at distribution centers so people can get badly needed ice to preserve food.
Lack of gasoline runs a close second as a concern. A reporter on TV just said that gas stations are going through a week’s worth of gas in half a day. Part of that is due to people running gasoline generators. Part of it is due to people filling tanks that didn’t get filled before the storm (during hurricane season, residents are always advised to keep gas tanks full . . . obviously, some don’t listen). Then there are those who are topping off tanks frequently . . . I’m hearing that quite a few of us fall in that category. Personally, I’m wondering why people are driving so much that they feel the need to top off? Or, is it just a wee bit of paranoia?
Criticism is beginnng. People are tired of shortages, and some are getting cranky (and vocal). I understand their crankiness; I get cranky when I have to do without, too. It appears to me, though, that local officials are doing their level best to get people what they need as quickly as possible. Judging from what I can see, relief efforts (while not perfect) are proceeding as they should. I especially see Mayor White and Judge Emmett focusing on solving problems quickly and efficiently . . . and refusing to point fingers at others when things go wrong. Kudos especially to Judge Emmett for streamlining shipments to points of distribution.
Mostly, I’m counting my blessings. My family is safe. My home was undamaged. I have power. I have food and water. I have enough money to live on. I have people who care about me.
My only challenge is . . . I need bananas. Two days ago, there were none at the store. I’m going to make another banana run now to see if more have turned up. Wish me luck! 
