As I write this, the Hurricane Issac is hammering the Gulf Coast and dumping rain on South Mississippi. Here in Central Mississippi, we watch and wait, wondering if and when we’ll get the rain. My hurricane preparations are ready. I won’t complain if I don’t need them.
Yesterday, The Sun Herald ran a story suggesting that “Land Massgate” (yes, I just launched a “gate” scud) might not have really happened. And in return, people swear they heard it — although no video has appeared yet. So now the backlash of the backlash of the backlash has begun — and I just smile at the whole thing. Why? I had Jana Bell, the creator of the brilliant and viral Facebook Page “The Land Mass between NOLA and Mobile, on my radio show yesterday; and I applaud what she did. She took what was perceived to be an insult (I’ve been in broadcasting long enough to know you sometimes say stupid things on air without ill intent) and turned it into a positive. She created a fun way for people to vent pent up frustration from poor media coverage seven years ago. I’ll be honest, some of the memes, posters, cartoons and other things from land masspalooza are hilarious. The Weather Channel hasn’t been harmed. Jim Cantore is still chasing danger. People are able to vent and laugh. And now the Weather Channel says “Mississippi” more than “Who” is said in “When the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
Isaac is frightening. Not only because of the damage it’s doing. But because it’s churning up emotions from seven years ago. A little levity in the face of the storm isn’t exactly a bad thing.
Wish I heard the interview with Jana. What’s happened with the Land Mass page is nothing short of remarkable, and I really appreciate that she’s done such a good job of keeping the message positive.
You’re right-Isaac is frightening, and Katrina is still too fresh a wound for most of us. A little humor goes a long way toward helping us get through the bad times. Thanks to you for helping us smile and thoughts and prayers for those in Isaac’s path.
Art