Not Nothing

Nothing profound to say about Hurricane Irene. TV weather people standing ankle deep, leaning into the wind as Atlantic surf washes lightly around them. No longer an “M” on the National Hurricane Center map, it’s a one, not a four, three, or even two. At 75 MPH this morning a minimal “H” and perhaps an “S” before day is done. Will there be a Cantore Story? In his blue slicker, is that real or is he standing in front of a fan while a crewman sprays a hose? 

Relief or disappointment when news doesn’t turn out as bad as media frenzy hyped? 

Show of hands: who would evacuate PC or PCB for a Cat 1 storm? Hold up your hand.

New York City is prepared. A tornado warning was up for Queens this morning, so it’s not nothing, definitely not nothing. PACKING A PUNCH says the PC News-Herald front page headline this morning. Three million without power, several people killed. No hurricane is a nothing, and Irene has been a monster.

Sunday morning, 78 F. and not even a breeze in 32401.

Read the comics and head for church.

Tom