It seems like only a year or so ago we were praying for rain and water because everything was so dry. Unless you have been living under a rock the past couple months you should be aware we now have more water than we want or need. I don't think I've ever seen the water as high as it's been lately, from levee to levee. I wasn't here in the 60's so I don't know anything before 1976, but I know we sure have a lot of it now.

We've been fortunate for the most part, the hurricane missed hitting us head on, we did get quite a bit of rain, but not as much as areas South of us. Of course, now we are receiving a lot of the water that hit further South. We have been holding our own so far, and hopefully they won't release more than we can handle. Some might say that it's at that point already, especially those who live close to where the water is rapidly flowing by.

I want to say that everyone is working hard and doing all they can to make sure our citizens are safe, and remain that way. From the County Judge and Commissioners, to the Emergency Management Director and his people, we in local law enforcement along with DPS, Tx-Dot personnel, and many more are working around the clock to ensure Willacy County citizens remain safe and secure. They are on the phone constantly with the people from Hidalgo County, the IBWC, and any state resources available them, to make sure all that can be done, is being done.

It's interesting how situations like these bring out the people. There has been a lot of picture taking along the floodway and in other areas, and as you stop to see them take pictures you meet a lot of interesting people. Sunday night after church I made a drive to the Santa Monica area to check on the water and see how the repairs were holding up and I had a chance to talk with a local, Mr. Avila, I believe, who proceeded to give me a very interesting history lesson on the area and himself as well. We were asked to mention to people in the area if they wanted to voluntarily evacuate they could consider it. Most people have decided to stick it out for now, but again it was interesting to hear their stories of how long they've lived there and a little water wasn't going to force them out now. I admire their spirit, but sometimes it's better to be safe than sorry.

I understand more water is to be released from the dam which will take 2-3 days to get to us. Hopefully some of what we already have will recede by then. The good thing to know is that God is still in charge, and not man. In the meantime we'll keep a close watch on the situation and please don't hesitate to call if you need us. Stay safe, and dry!