Our generation has seen some of the most powerful and destructive weather patterns ever recorded. From tsunamis to floods, hurricanes to earthquakes and tornados, the looming threat of inclment weather is ever present. Here in America, Hurricane Katrina ran its destructive and devastating course through the South in the summer of 2005. Not only did Hurricane Katrina virtually destroy one of the oldest and most revered cities in the country, but it also destroyed the otherwise hopeful morale of the people who inhabit New Orleans and its surrounding communities. Controversy surrounded the event in its wake; many questioned (and still do) the government’s response to the disaster and to the residents affected by it. Trouble The Water is an award-winning documentary film directed and produced by Tia Lessin and Carl Deal (Fahrenheit 9/11 and Bowling For Columbine). The film follows New Orleans’ ninth ward natives Kimberly Rivers Roberts and her husband Scott through the storm, and examines it from a view that’s remained a mystery except to those who experienced it. The film is raw, gritty and critical of our country’s leaders and lawmakers. It also contains live footage of the storm’s raging waters, daring rescues, and the alarming and dangerous state that New Orleans’ neighborhoods were left in. For this reason, our younger readers may want to have their parents screen the movie before watching it. It’s powerful and passionate, so be ready to revisit the pain. I think it’s necessary and healthy, however, to ask questions, to be educated about what really happened before, during and after the storm, and to attempt to understand the plight of Katrina’s victims and survivors. The film’s slogan is fitting: “It’s not about a hurricane. It’s about America.” The film hits theaters in New York and Los Angeles on August 22. If you don’t live in those areas, don’t worry—The film will be released nationwide soon after. Check out the trailer on the film’s official website:

TroubleTheWaterFilm.com

Keeping this film in mind, if you are of voting age (18 years or older) don’t forget to register to vote! With the 2008 Presidential election fast approaching, and with issues such as emergency relief fresh on our minds, now is a great time to research and learn about all of our candidates and their stand on the issues. Come November, you can help elect someone who will ensure that the after effects of Hurricane Katrina won't happen again. Visit RockTheVote.com to register and learn more about why it’s imperative that we all vote.

Peace, Love and EDUCATION,
Alex

You know where to reach me!
aneason@americancheerleader.com