We intended to begin the new round of fall classes this week, but Hurricane Ike has forced us to put it off a little longer. Whether we can begin next week is not certain, since the Arboretum is closed until they can deal with the damage. I took a drive through Memorial Park on Sunday and was impressed with the extent of the tree damage - far worse than in the neighborhoods, though at least no roofs were damaged.
Even for those of us who came through unscathed, we all know people who were injured by this storm in one way or another. I encourage you to spend the next week or two helping them get through their travails (unless it is your own travails at the forefront of concerns). We will restart classes soon enough, with a renewed sense of purpose. And since the weather is now quite pleasant outdoors, that will make it all the nicer. Until then, be safe and take care of loved ones.