Speaking of news stories — I suspect before all is said and done the whole nightmare of the devastation caused by that out-of-control oil spill and the details of how and when it’s gotten back under control may rank as one of the top news stories of this century.
Is that too much of an exaggeration when I say “top news stories of this century”? I think not. Consider all that’s involved with this tragedy.
1. Devastation to the Gulf Coast and perhaps even beyond if things go badly. That alone will mean perhaps decades to clean up and restore those marsh lands and various Gulf regions to decency.
2. The horrible impact on the lives and livelihood of millions who live in the region.
3. The rapid game of “catch up” being played by the scientists and engineers trying to get a handle on deep water drilling and safety.
I could go on and on, but you get the idea. This deep water oil monster continues to growl and spew like some sort of living creature hyped up on vitamins and steroids and bent on zapping all living things in that part of the ocean.
Personally, I’m confident that the beast will finally be brought back under control. But I have no optimism on dealing with the devastation it has brought. Certainly now more than ever we need to devote our economy and technology to a radical investment in alternative energy and escape the hold of the oil monster(s) out there.