Hurricane Harvey Anniversary
On August 25, 2017, almost one year ago, our area was hit by Hurricane Harvey. Today, I would like to highlight some of the events taking place in the Coastal Bend that are serving to remind us of Hurricane Harvey’s impact. I’d also like to shed some light on the organizations that continue to provide resources and assistance to those in need. While Hurricane Harvey affected several different areas of our state, our area specifically suffered in the wind damage category. The National Weather Service calculated wind speeds of 175 mph during the hurricane. In Texas’ history, there have been 64 hurricanes. However, Harvey is among the ranks of only four super storms that rapidly intensified. The others include the 1932 storm, Hurricane Celia in 1970 and Hurricane Alicia in 1983. According to Rebuild Texas, the state’s official website for facts and figures related to Harvey recovery, more than $13.8 billion has been paid directly from the federal government to storm survivors in Texas. Of that, more than $178 million went to Nueces County and $161 million landed in Aransas County, where the storm made its initial landfall.
One event taking place this weekend is the Day of Remembrance at Roberts Point Park in Port Aransas. The event will begin at 9:00 AM with a procession of flags. Before the hurricane struck, Port Aransas Chief Scott Burroughs took down the flags that hung in front of the Civic Center. Those flags will be part of the processional. You can find more information at New Day Port A Fund. Additionally, the famous Port Royal Resort will be hosting an event to celebrate their progress and resilience since the storm damaged it. The hotel is open and working swiftly to be back to post hurricane normal.
In addition, the Live Oak Country Club in Rockport will be hosting a re-opening celebration this weekend. The country club will open at 7:00 AM and will be fully operational for guests to see the course. While you’re in Rockport, you can also check out the Harvey Block Party that will be taking place on the same day. The city will be closing Main and Wharf streets, between Austin and Water streets from 4:00 PM to midnight. Festivities include live music, art vendors, and more.
There are many great organizations still helping families in need. The Salvation Army of Texas continues to provide resources to those affected by the hurricane. So far, the Salvation Army as served almost one million meals, provided 92,000 comfort kits and has distributed 33,000 food boxes to families affected by Hurricane Harvey. If you or someone you know could use their assistance, please visit Salvation Army Texas.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents Nueces County (Part). He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.
