Pfffft!

Several large corporations receive billions in federal subsidies, and only give a few hundred thousands each to the Red Cross, which uses the lions share of the money to pay exorbitant salaries, advertise on national networks, and purchase expensive real estate.

Meanwhile, people that paid taxes their entire lives are struggling to survive, and wondering if they will. I hope they reflect their dissatisfaction by avoiding boiler house charities, and the products of corporate welfare companies. Their tax dollars may be abused, but they still control what they have left on pay day.

Pfffft!

Something I've Observed

With all the flooding, water marks are noticeable on the homes. Usually, there's a line of debris, but some marks are discoloration from the water.

One thing I've observed is the height of the marks correspond to the local road, or local freshwater canal, or highway. Otherwise, the drainage was impeded enough to allow the water to build to level where it finally spills over the obstruction.

I'm wondering if anyone affected noticed this too, and the crapstorm will soon start. Losing a house to natural causes is one thing; losing it because the engineering of certain things neglected to consider 200 year flood events is another.

I Guess I Could Complain

But, I won't. My inconveniences are minor, and my blessings are huge.

It's a Lot Like Prositution

Prostitutes advertise their wares, push for the deal, and exchange money for sexual favors. So does the media. The most sensational, graphic, or shocking story is used to lure viewers, so they can be entertained for a few minutes, and after the event, the media is looking for more "John's" to pay the bills, and keep the ratings high.

The current hurricanes are a good example. With the approach of Harvey, the media was constantly showing forecasts, people trying to evacuate and trying to keep their ratings up. When it struck, the initial reports were on Rockport, Texas, which received the worst of the landfall damage. As the storm moved toward Houston, and the flooding began, Rockport was forgotten, and the new sensational news reports were aimed at showing the devastation of the water.

Now we have Irma. All the Harvey damage is almost forgotten, and someone is suffering in Rockport. Their life is ruined, they have few resources, and they're wondering how they'll survive. They feel forgotten, and they are. They aren't "sensational", and the media could care less about their suffering.

Meanwhile, in the ivory towers of network television, those without a clue continue their efforts to keep the ratings up, and turn another few tricks for the pimps that sign their paychecks.

They Call Them Roads

One remarkable thing I noticed after observing the area wide flooding are the roads. For all practical purposes, they're dams, and those that built below the level of the road, were most affected.

Anyone that's building should always consider the location of the nearest road, and build above the top of the road. One foot minimum, and 2 feet as a good start.