From Tom Matrullo, after suffering the worst or Charley:

Thanks to everyone who tried to call or write – apologies to those of you who have been worried about the impact of hurricane Charley on us here in appropriately named Charlotte County, Florida, for the slow reply. I had to drive 50 miles today to get to a working internet connection. We are all alive and ok. Our house, like many in our area, has suffered a lot of damage – roof is half off, wall caved in, ceilings down – i.e. not very habitable. The county is without water, power, phone. The President was good enough to fly in and tie up traffic. (Saw a good bumper sticker: “There is a village in Texas that is missing its idiot.”) There is a lot of good in people here, amid a lot of suffering and loss, and some of the usual negative elements, looting etc. Much help is pouring in from elsewhere, but so far, it doesn’t seem rationally organized, lacking most media to do so. My neighborhood is sort of camping out. We are either camping or staying with friends whose homes are still intact, as the occasion warrants. I hope those of you who live in our area are alive and in good shape – do let us know – you’re in our thoughts and hearts.

Thanks again for all the good wishes….

Categories: misc dw