Couch, Al 1970-06-00

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Al Couch, director of Public Services, discusses the Lubbock tornado of May 11, 1970, his involvement in its aftermath, and aspects of housing in connection with it.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Al Couch

Additional Parties Recorded:

Date: June 1970

Location: Lubbock, Texas

Interviewer: Stan Valcik

Length: 1 hour, 5 minutes


Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Assigned function in Emergency Operations Center (EOC) given, First notification of severe weather recalled, Mentions broadcastings on KFYO radio station, Describes drive from home to EOC, Need for communications expressed, Lists responsibilities after the storm, Provision of Municipal Coliseum for emergency shelter mentioned, Comments on reports coming in from outside, Explains designation of Smiley Wilson school for temporary morgue, Public health matters reviewed, Recalls beginning of search and rescue efforts

Tape 1, Side 2: Describes establishment of communication with hospitals and morgue, Vacated houses given to city by FHA discussed, Reports terms of agreement with FHA, Return to normalcy estimated, Health and housing responsibilities reviewed, Water, sewer and food problems recounted, Extensive discussion of food condemnation, Damage to parks and some city property described, Continues discussion of housing problems and responsibilities

Tape 2, Side 1: Continues discussion of housing program from tape one

Tape 2, Side 2: Blank

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Access Information

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Recording Format Notes:

Transcript:



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