[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 11345]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE NORTHEAST ALLISON COMMEMORATION COMMUNITY PROJECT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 25, 2002

  Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor the men and 
women who were a part of the Northeast Allison Commemoration Community 
Project. This project was composed of citizens, community leaders, 
civic clubs, churches, and local government and business who banded 
together for each other after the devastating flooding caused by 
Tropical Storm Allison.
  Last June, when Allison began moving into the Houston area, few had 
any idea the disaster that lay ahead. Over the week beginning June 6, 
Allison sat over Houston, Texas, and dumped rainfall in excess of 10"-
15", with some areas in the 29th District receiving over 30", with the 
majority of that falling in a 24 hour period.
  Flooding from this storm was severe and widespread, with streets and 
freeways impassible, residents being rescued from their roofs just 
before their homes were completely submerged, and schools and other 
public places transformed into hastily-organized shelters.
  The damage to both homes and businesses was estimated at over $5 
billion. However, that total is low, when you consider the inability to 
completely replace treasured mementos and other valuables that were 
left behind and washed away or ruined by floodwaters.
  In the aftermath of this disaster, the Northeast Allison 
Commemoration Community Project was formed. This organization helped 
address the overwhelming sense of helplessness with crisis counseling; 
strengthened the unity of the community; served as a remembrance to 
those who lost their lives; and brought healing to the devastated 
neighborhoods.
  This Saturday, the Project will hold a gathering to celebrate their 
recovery. This gathering will allow members of this community an 
opportunity to close the door on this difficult period. However, the 
bonds which were forged and strengthened by this flood will continue, 
as we all work together in the future.

                          ____________________