Galveston has begun what will be a slow recovery from the onslaught of Hurricane Ike. Most buildings, though not all, had flood waters and many had some wind damage.  However, Galvestonians are resilient and love their city and island, and they will find a way to use this opportunity to make Galveston even better than before.

Information coming out of Galveston has been sporadic, and those of us not currently on the island wish to know what is going on.  All of us know someone on the island that is giving us information.

Therefore, let us all share. If you have information to share or questions to ask, hit the link below that says ___comments to post a question or comment.

Robin Bushong has been sharing information that she has been hearing. Yesterday she sent the following:

Hi, everyone….  not sure how many of you were able to hear/watch the mayor’s and governor’s press conference.  Here are the highlights:

1. UTMB is expected to take one week to be up and running. They’re first on the list for city services.  Steve LeBlanc said "the rest of the city is after that."  He was not encouraging about an early return date. We know – according to his report a few minutes ago – that it looks like at least a week. MAYBE will change with tomorrow’s press conference scheduled for 12 noon. LeBlance said: "No water, no sewage service, no electricity, no gas – essentially  the island is unhabitable."

2. If you have relatives/friends/property that you want checked: call 409.765.3710.

3. Three bodies found so far – no indication of what part of town.  Search and rescue continuing today and tomorrow.

4. City is right now evacuating another 2000 people who want off the island. They’re being bussed to San Antonio  ( or maybe Austin, can’t read my writing.)

5. Three locations have been established on the island for fuel, food, water, and ice.

6.Tx DOT confirmed that the causeway is "structurally sound."

7. Governor Perry said that FEMA would reimburse residents for damages not covered by their insurance ( except for deductible.)

8. LeBlanc said that he flew over the west end yesterday.  Said past 11mile road – totally inaccessible.  He said he saw about 30 homes floating in the Gulf.  He said "the destruction was devastating."

9.LeBlanc also said that a stretch of road at the end of the Seawall "was compromised."

It appears from all accounts that there will be federal $$ to help those who need it most and it appears that Texas and feds are determined Galveston will not be a repeat of New Orleans after Katrina.

Keep the faith!

James

 

 

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