I love this newspaper - even when it pisses me off.
Beautifully written articles like this make me realize what a national treasure the NY Times is:
The piece by Nicolai Ouroussoff.
He starts with the story of N.O. Pump Station 1 the night the hurricane hit. How the first to go were the mighty brand new pumps, and how the 90 year old pumps are still going strong and steady. And how 3 brave workers fought water back through the ordeal.
The story then moves out to discuss how our American cities are falling into decay. From levees to school buildings.
And finally,
"...especially in when the federal government seems more concerned about doling out private contacts than reversing decades of neglect. The challenge we face is not just about infrastructure. It's about ..." "... what's needed is an honest acknowledgment of what's brought us here. New Orleans was a warning."
One thing did bug me. He cited the manufacturers of the sturdy older pumps, but didn't tell us who
manufactured the schlock.
I highly recommend buying the paper for an enjoyable Sunday read.