A Breath of Fresh Air

Many celebrities and politicians have streamed into Houston the past few days. For many of us, this has been a blessing and a curse together. While the spotlight on the plight of the evacuees does need to shine, the blatant exploitiveness of the visits aggravates citizens of Houston. This morning, however, I was treated to an uplifting story of a recent celebrity visit to the Astrodome and the George R. Brown Convention Center. While ALL of the other celebrities and politicos have been accompanied by large entourages and photographers, very few of the evacuees benefit from these visits on a personal level. The entourages keep the people at arm's length and hugs are given for the benefit of cameras.

Yesterday Bill Cosby came to visit the evacuees. A member of a medical team working as volunteers relayed the following story on local radio this morning. He came alone, with only a police officer as an escort. He rode in on a golf cart and went to the center of the people assembled that day. Everyone was free to come up and visit. No cameras, no handlers, no handing out a few things for the needy for the video opportunity. Mr. Cosby took a microphone and said some words of encouragement to everyone. He told them to not blame others for what happened. He told them to take the money and services offered to them and use it as an opportunity to better themselves. He told them this is their chance for a better shot at life even though it looks rough now. He told them to think to the future and get their children educated. An educated child won't find himself/herself in this situation later in life. Do not fall prey to those who would have you view yourself as a victim. Pull yourself up and take responsibility for your life.

Excellent story. A refreshing change of pace, don't you think?

Houston is taking a hit in the New York Times newspaper. An article was written accusing the city for responding to the evacuees so that Houston might profit from the tragedy. Nice. Makes you wonder how much lower that rag can sink.

The high school my son attends is expecting 200 students to enroll from the hurricane. More teachers will be hired and room will be made somewhere. This is a school with 3,000 students normally. I hope it all runs smoothly.