I am not trying to be argumentative, difficult or an *** but I have some strong view on this topic. Initially, before speaking to Chal on this very topic, I thought “hey, just move. There are programs out there to help you do just that.” After speaking with Chal and thinking this through; I think it is absolutely criminal that there are people in the United States living in these conditions. As a country when a disaster hits in another part of the world, we’re right there with the taxpayer’s checkbook to lend a helping hand. We need to take care of our own citizens first!

I understand the 9th (correct?) district being repaired/rebuilt first. Economically it makes sense, it will generate revenue to help the state rebuild. But why should the other Parishes be forced to scatter to the four winds? Mom and Dad in California; a brother in Texas; Sister in Illinois; child in New York. I chose my residence for a reason. I am close enough to see family whenever I want, and far enough away that it requires a little planning before they can just drop in. Should a freak blizzard/ice storm wipe out my Village, I would not take very kindly to a nation of people saying “just move, it’ll be easier”. Easier for whom?

Chicago is built on a fault. Dallas is in tornado alley. There are many cities in this country that currently exist only because Mother Nature has not seen fit to destroy them yet (does no one else watch Discovery Science Channel?). Will it happen in my lifetime, probably not, but if it did, if it happened tomorrow, do we just add insult to injury and say, “you survived the storm, suck it up and relocate.”