It probably wasn’t a positive experience for anyone: 

First, the fear of Hurricane Ike’s storming, fierce winds.

Then, for millions of residents, a blackout.

No electrical power.

Lives were disrupted, businesses stayed closed and children missed school until power was finally restored—sometimes weeks later.

But the 11 News Defenders have discovered there are some who say it didn’t have to happen this way.

The local electrical worker’s union claims CenterPoint Energy cut back on basic maintenance in the years running up to Ike, maintenance that might have kept your lights on, such as trimming tree branches off of power lines and much else.

Now, CenterPoint denies these claims.

But Texas lawmakers say the company isn’t providing them with enough information for them to judge for themselves.

So who’s right?

Watch what Investigative Reporter Mark Greenblatt has uncovered and judge for yourself.

You might be surprised.

But you’ll only find out on 11 News at 10 p.m., tonight.