In August1992, Hurricane Andrew was truly devastating, but the focus was on how entire neighborhoods and the town of Homestead, Florida was destroyed. Focus of the loss of life ran high as well. But it was Hurricane Katrina that first showed us how vulnerable our infrastructure really is. Superstorm Sandy simply showed us that we have no choice but to concentrate on our infrastructures immediately. Sandy also serves as a precursor of what we will expect in the future, and also serves as a testament that Climate Change is a real thing and can no longer be ignored.
I was in New Jersey three weeks ago. I grew up in Somerset County, New Jersey, went off to College in Central Pennsylvania, lived outside of Philadelphia for four years after that, and even spent many days at the Jersey Shore. So you might imagine how many friends and family I have up there. I am worried about all of them, and I am worried about the many victims I do not even know.
In August, you may remember me talking about my knowledge and study in environmental science. My instinct about natural disasters becoming more frequent and more devastating is exactly the reason why I built this project: the Album "Kowbelle--Our Red Cross", and why my main focus in life is to raise awareness and funding for that organization. That is why I am also a volunteer.
This storm is of epic proportions, and I can only take so much of these disturbing images before I have to just turn off the TV. I think much of America is upset and nervous about what might come next.
At this point, I would like to stress to all of you who have not been affected by this storm, to realize that you are strong, and not weakened by this, and have the ability to give time or money to any one of our great Relief Organizations. Whether it is the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, United Way of any other national of local organization, now is the time. There are so many people who are suffering, who need help, and who desperately need hope if that is at all possible.
It is very hard, after a storm like Sandy, to expect some to even be hopeful, but it is extremely important to help try to restore some hope, and for all of us as a national community to come together to help overcome the worst storm ever to affect our country.
Lou Ross