Keeping NOLA Afloat
There's a nice discussion of the sensationalist report of New Orleans becoming Atlantis (last Sunday's "60 Minutes") here, along with some smart responses:
The Times-Picayune ran an editorial repudiating Kusky's claims and questioning his credentials. Turns out he's a hard-rock geologist with no expertise in coastal erosion, wetlands, or riverine cultures. An ex-student blogged the editorial and added graphics. Check him out:
Balkin's right on the two counts of argument New Orleans political officials, businessmen and the citizenry need to make loudly for rebuilding: (1) our city could be your city; (2) the culture argument. New Orleans constitutes so much American culture -- and especially African-American culture (and it is a living culture) -- that to let it stew in its own swamp juice constitutes national self-mutilation. Does the term "American" simply mean, "I got mine, you get yours?" Not according to the facts on the ground -- the outpouring of money, compassion, generosity, and hospitality across the country for NOLA evacuees.
It does seem as if the window of opportunity for national compassion is closing, helped by the Feds' vested interest in NOLA's collapse so the smart money can build Atlantic City South on a New Urbanist ideal. If they succeed, New Orleans will become Atlantis in a century: a mythical region where once the musical gods lived and danced with the people.