I don't know where they are staying, but the cleanup crews seem to be mostly Hispanics from Texas, working like beavers.
They picked up trash on my street yesterday afternoon. One guy had only his left hand in a glove, no eye protection. I gave him a spare set of gloves and my goggles. The cleanup in front of my house was terrific.vbg.
They parked their trucks on the street; I suspect many of them are sleeping in their vehicles. I'll find out in a few minutes.
No waiting for handouts on the part of these guys, no moaning and groaning. These jobs are no doubt paying a minimum of $15 an hour, and they are taking advantage of an opportunity. The owners of the companies are all Hispanic, too, as evidenced by the names, e.g., Miranda Dozer, etc.
I had a similar experience with the very slight roof damage I sustained. After making a few calls to roofing contractors and finding out that no one could see me until November, I simply spoke to a crew of Mexican roofers who were in the neighborhood. They were more than glad to "get 'r done" for me on the spot without any list, or estimate or BS. Just showed them my house, and the work was done in about an hour.
My point, and I do have one, is that Reconstruction II may very well result in a city in which the Hispanic population is going to increase tremendously. The work ethic of these guys is terrific, and I think they are (1) going to feel at home here and (2) are going to rush in to fill the labor void Katrina caused. As they accumulate capital and grow roots, they will become a force increasingly to be reckoned with.
I consider it a Very Good Thing because NO needs an injection of energy, work ethic, and entrepreunership. These guys, who are now at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder, will not be content to remain there and will exert themselves and succeed.
A good sign. |
