2theadvocate.com | Hurricane Katrina Blog

Tigers v. Vols

2005-09-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
LSU plays Tennessee today at 6:30 p.m., but you shouldn't take your time getting to LSU's campus. Traffic is bad enough already due to the one-two punch of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and game day traffic is going to create even more road congestion.

I drove through campus this morning to report and trouble spots. Most of campus looks fine -- there are several small branches and debris littering tailgating spots, but campus clean-up crews are doing their best to clear it. The ground is still wet and in some places, especially in the fields between campus and Walk-Ons restaurant on the southwest side of LSU, have standing water. Tailgaters are already setting up so you may want to leave now to stake your claim. Take note that the Music and Dramatic Arts building is fenced off for official use only, so no tailgating there.

I'm still looking for more tailgating photos and recipes. You can email them to me here. Go Tigers!

Area closings and postponements

2005-09-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

Although Rita's eye probably won't come near Baton Rouge, we will still feel the effects of the storm. Several schools and offices have been closed and events have been cancelled or postponed. Here is a list of the latest information we have available. It will be updated periodically.

Also,a tornado warning has been issued for Ascension Parish, including the city of Gonzales, St. Charles, St. James and St. John until 10:30 a.m. Check back with us for the latest.

Here we go again?

2005-09-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

Well if you haven't already heard the return to selected parts of New Orleans has been called off. As someone who watched hurricane Katrina develop from a small Caribbean storm to massive Category 5 storm that decimated the Gulf Coast this all seems eerily similar. Well the exception of the wall to wall coverage on cable news channels.
Here is a link to the latest story.

Going home

2005-09-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

The New Orleans area was opened up to residents over the weekend. There was a lot to clean up, but several homes and businesses now have power, although the water is not safe to drink in some areas.

If you went back to your home, let us know what you saw in our Comments link below. You can email photos to me at jhischer@theadvocate.com.

Next up: Rita

2005-09-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

It looks like the hurricane season isn't done with us yet. Tropical Storm (and soon-to-be-Hurricane) Rita is due to arrive in the Gulf of Mexico later this week. Most predict it will hit the east coast of Texas, but there is some speculation that it may possibly follow Katrina's track to the Louisiana coastline. Either way, this will affect Louisiana citizens. Our state is still recovering from storm and flood damage, and several thousand evacuees have taken up residence in eastern Texas communities like Houston. With danger still looming, are we prepared for another disaster so soon after Katrina? Tell me what you think in the Comments link below.

Mmmm...mmmm...M.R.E.s!

2005-09-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
I thought I had seen the last of M.R.E.s (Meals-Ready-to-Eat) after I finished my stint with the military. But it seems that they've made a comeback recently in the areas ravaged by Hurricane Katrina.

Contrary to what your fathers or grandfathers may have told you, they're not that bad to eat -- especially the newer recipes. They do have a day's worth of calories in each meal, though, so don't gorge!

Back when I was in the Air Force, we used to create our recipes using the raw ingredients each M.R.E. contained. One was called "ranger pudding." We opened up a package of hot cocoa mix, poured in our package of coffee creamer, then added just a little bit of water and stirred it into a thick paste. The result was a really grainy, but tasty, chocolate pudding.

So this call goes out to all of those in the military that are stationed overseas and have been writing in on how they can help: send in YOUR special M.R.E. recipes! You can email them to me at jhischer@theadvocate.com or post them in the Comments section below.

Week 3

2005-09-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
What a great weekend for football! LSU came from behind to beat Arizona State University and the Saints kicked in a last-minute field goal to defeat Carolina. Both great games and I won $50 on LSU!!!

The PMAC's triage clinic is now closed down, so I am out of a volunteering job. If anyone knows of any shelters in Baton Rouge that are shorthanded, post them in the Comments area below so everyone can share.

Local artist Ross Zietz designed a Hurricane Katrina t-shirt to raise money for the Red Cross. It looks great, so you can look good and help out. Check it out here: http://www.threadless.com/product/304/Regrowth:_Katrina

New guy in charge

2005-09-09T11:52:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Well, it looks like FEMA boss Michael Brown has been told to "head back to Washington from Louisiana to oversee the big picture." Taking his place as the on-site head of hurricane relief efforts will be Coast Guard Vice Adm. Thad Allen. He will be working closely with Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré who is in charge of military forces in the New Orleans area.

How do you feel about this new change? How do you think our leaders are handling this situation? Post your thoughts in the Comments link below.

Are you sharing your home?

2005-09-09T11:41:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
We've heard that some VERY generous citizens have been letting large families stay at their homes. Our reporter J.D. Ventura is looking for "a home that is full of evacuees (like 10-15 displaced people), please let me know. I want to do a story on a household that is attempting to function with so many people in limbo." If you know of any, email him at jventura@theadvocate.com.

LSU Vet school needs help with sheltering animals

2005-09-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
This comes from Lee Eisenberg:

I have just come from the emergency animal shelter on the LSU campus. The night shift volunteers, many of whom are students, are literally running around trying to get the work done.

There is a crying need for volunteers-especially mature people who know a little about animals and are prepared to do what it takes to care for these animals. If anyone can help, or has friends that can help, it would be greatly appreciated.

The veterinary and vet tech students have done a magnificent job, but they are exhausted and need relief.

These beloved pets may be all that New Orleanians have left of their shattered lives.

C'mon guys! Cute and cuddly! Give them a hand.

What to do...what to do...

2005-09-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
In case you haven't heard, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin has ordered a forced evacuation of the city. Yeah, that's how bad it is.

So, I've noticed we have a lot of out-of-towners now. Many have asked, "What is there to do in Baton Rouge?" Well, let's see:

For the kids: there is a bowling alley and miniture golf course with batting cages right off of Airline Hwy. and I-12; there are parks with playground equipment throughout the city; we have a zoo; there is a neat battleship to tour; there is a lazer tag place off of Sherwood Forest Blvd.; Jambalaya Park in Gonzales has a "spray ground"; and several movie theaters.

For the adults: See above, plus there is the Chimes Street area near LSU with restaurants and bars (mostly bars); downtown Baton Rouge has several museums and little shops; there are two large shopping malls -- one near Florida Blvd. and Airline Hwy. and one off of Bluebonnet Blvd.

That's everything off the top of my head, but here is a link with more things to do in Baton Rouge: http://www.2theadvocate.com/visitors. There is a link to the bus schedule on this page as well.

If you can think of anything else fun to do in the Baton Rouge area, list it in the Comments link below. Take a break and have fun!

Welcome back!

2005-09-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Welcome back to school / work / home, etc. after the Labor Day holiday. I think the gas shortage is over. Even though there are still stations without gas and long lines of cars waiting to fill up, there are still a LOT of cars on the road. It just seems impossible to have a gas crisis and traffic jams at the same time. What do you think? Oh yeah, a couple of first responders have asked that you PLEASE move out of the way when you see an ambulance coming. I know most of us don't need reminding, but...

There's nothing really big to report this morning -- more evacuees are coming through Baton Rouge but most of New Orleans is now empty.

Actually, I've received several emails from people in the St. Bernard area and from Bogalusa saying there are still people there that haven't been rescued and that aid hasn't reached them yet. They want to know when help is coming. If anyone reading this is associated with agencies in that area, let them know by posting in the comments section below. I'm getting conflicting reports here.

My friend is moving in with me from Slidell. His job is being transferred to Baton Rouge temporarily until the office is back up and running. There are still a lot of people out there without a place to stay. If you would like to house a new roommate or need a room, check out this link here: http://www.shareyourhome.org/

LSU game has been moved!

2005-09-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
LSU's Sept. 10 game against Arizona State University has been moved to Tempe, Ariz. Check back on 2theadvocate.com for more info.

Little donations

2005-09-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Every little bit counts. Donna Simoneaux sends this: Katrina has affected all of us, even my 6 year old niece in Jacksonville, FL. This past weekend she lost her first tooth and the tooth fairy gave her $5. She has chosen to donate the $5 to the hurricane relief fund!!!

How cute is that?!?! Around town I've noticed children setting up lemonade stands to contribute to Hurricane Katrina charities. Way to go, kids! If you see one, stop in for some lemonade and tip well.

Hurricane arts

2005-09-05T14:32:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Several of you have submitted poems and songs about the recent tragedy following Hurricane Katrina. Here are a few:

This one comes from Karla Glaser:

On August 29th, we fell to our knees
and wondered to ourselves how could this be.
A city of gumbo, and all that jazz
The place that we loved, we no longer have
Families, elders, and so many others
Babies were found with no trace of mothers
People were begging for water and food, trying to survive and make it through
This awful time that we never imagined
How could something like this ever happen?
But through this hard time we are pulling together
To improve this disaster and make things get better.
Katrina may have knocked us off of our feet.
But Louisiana will restore the beautiful southeast.
Through this trying time of tears and madness
We will stick together to ease the sadness
The Cabildo, Du Monde, and the D-day museum
The Aquarium, and Bourbon, we will all see again.
We will pull together and dry our tears.
We will hug, and donate, and volunteer.
Victims of Katrina, hold on tight
Keep your faith you will soon see the light.
Lets put aside race and forget about class,
Lets all join together, to make this our past.
We will strive and succeed at restoring the land
Of this place named New Orleans, the city so grand.

This poem comes from Ruth Atwell Pierre:

Where Were You And What Did You DO (When Katrina Blew )

Where were you when Katrina hewn her path
when she poured out her wrath.
When she opened her horrid mouth,
And devoured America's beautiful south.
Were you carefree,
living in a haven of safety
Were you fearfully seeking shelter from her catastrophic winds.
while franticly looking for kin and friends
Did the survivor in you arise as hunger began to take its toll.
Or did lustful greed have you looting a television in exchange for
your soul.
While forced to live like a beast in a cage,
Were you a gentle one or did you violate others with a rapist's rage.'
Did you lend the vulnerable your hand,
Or bury your head in the sand.
Were you in the spirit of prayer for those who were in harms way,
Or were you consumed by your day.
What did you do with this news,
while the winds were calm and the skies still sunny and blue
Did you prepare for the worst and pray for the best,
Or were you of a slothful spirit of which God detests.
Did you fall with a prayerful spirit upon your knees,
Or in Him do you not believe.
I can tell you where I was and what I did do.
And hope you can say it was the same for you.
In my home is where I was nestled in place.
surrounded by the Father's arms, spared by His mercy and grace.
Why or how I do not understand, that it was me,
One of many that was spared from Katrina's reign of tyranny.
For myself I find my eyes filling with tears of relief,
intertwined with tears for others of astronomical proportions of
grief.
In my heart resides and attitude of eternal praise,
As my hands to God, I do raise.
Katrina's winds blow no more.
Rest assured the South shall be restored!

Alex Kashevaroff sends a link to a CD he recorded here: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/kashalex5
You can order the CD or listen to them for free from his site.

If you would like to contribute, post them in the comments below.

Leadership and Labor Day

2005-09-05T00:49:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Whew! I just made it home after a shift at the PMAC. The supplies keep rolling in from around the country. Thanks to everyone who's donated!

The triage center is a lot more organized than it was when it first opened earlier last week. The officials and leadership at the PMAC are to be commended. There are few people who could run it better, in my opinion.

What's even more exciting are some of the non-professional leaders that have emerged. Two students that I'm familiar with are Josh and Robert. It seems without prompting they have become leaders of most of the volunteer labor force, working around 12 hours a day. Their organizational and motivational skills are superb, and even when chaos erupts they find away to fix it quickly and efficiently. If you've volunteered up at the PMAC, I'm sure you've noticed them. Give them a pat on the back if you see them.

It looks like a lot of areas hit by Katrina are opening up tomorrow for residents. Be careful going back to your homes. Your houses may not be structurally safe to walk in, and there's a lot of broken glass and sharp metal littering most of the city streets.

By the way, Happy Labor Day! I know a lot of people will be barbecuing and cooking out, some because they don't have a choice without power or homes. So if you have a little free time, do a little "labor" and volunteer at one of the many shelters in the Baton Rouge area.

Welcome our neighbors from the east

2005-09-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
I received a few comments about how "the criminal element has entered our town," referring to some New Orleanians. I did some research on The Advocate police archives and found that there has been a considerable amount of crime here in Baton Rouge prior to Hurricane Katrina. We've even had two serial killers where New Orleans has had none in recent history. So for those people who make comments like that, double-check your stats. If someone breaks into a car it may not be one of "those" people -- it could very well be one of "our" people.

Others have said it's not fair that we have to take in these many people. If you need justification, other than they've all just lost their homes, there are two big reasons why we should open our arms to these evacuees: Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras. This deed we do now in small part makes up for all the trash, vomit, urine and other unmentionables we've left behind when we've visited their hometown.

For the less decadent who still have complaints about the influx of refugees, just know that it is the right thing to do. Like it or not, our population has grown and they will be here for a long time. Welcome our neighbors from the east.

The gas lines seem to be going down. Although the gas supply has obviously diminished in Baton Rouge, most stations have kept the price within reasonable levels. To those stations -- thanks! I know where I'll be shopping for gas when all of this is over. To the "gougers" -- I'll remember you, too.

No, I didn't make it to Slidell or Diamondhead over the weekend. I was able to get in touch with my friends. Telephones (especially cell phones) seem to be working better now. Thanks for all the travel tips you sent in.

I've been working at the PMAC pretty regularly. Yesterday I worked almost ten hours, probably a little more than I should. The problem with volunteering I see is that if most people just work a few hours at a time, there is little continuity in setting up procedures, so I'm trying to work a little longer and pass on what I've done to a new person who can dedicate 6 - 8 hours and then in turn pass on what he or she has done, etc. So, I guess I'm asking that if you can afford it, volunteer as many hours as possible.

Speaking of which, do you know anyone that is going out of their way to help out? Post it in the comments link below, even if it's you! You deserve credit just as much as anyone.

TGIF?

2005-09-02T17:17:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Well, it's Friday and for most of us nine-to-fivers we have three days off for Labor Day. But it's not really time for a holiday. I know I'll be helping clean up and volunteering. I don't know when I'll have a real weekend again.

Good news today! The National Guard made it in force to New Orleans and most other needed areas. I was able to pick up my friend, a nurse in a hospital in New Orleans, who had been trapped with her patients. She confirmed most of the rumors I had heard about looters breaking into the hospitals and patients dying from the miserable conditions. I'm taking her to The Chimes tonight for sure.

I'm going to try and go to Slidell and Diamondhead tomorrow to find out about some friends of mine. My big worry is finding enough fuel for the round-trip. I'll let you know what happens.

Gas & guns

2005-09-02T03:40:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Goooood morning Baton Rooooouge!!! It's time to get some things cleaned up! Be careful with those chainsaws and axes when chopping up fallen trees and branches. You've made it this far -- be patient and don't hurt yourself now.

I'm sure you've all noticed that several gas stations are out of fuel, and I'm sure you've also noticed people filling up several canisters and drums of gas as well as their own vehicle. Do us all a favor -- don't take more gas than you need. More gas is on the way. If you need a lot of gas to run generators at your home, that's fine. Everyone will understand that. But if you're hoarding because you think the gas apocalypse is around the corner, relax -- we're not there yet. I know it's "corny" to suggest, but try to form carpools or use the bus system. Here are the routes and schedules: http://www.brcats.com/

Also, I've noticed some citizens have started to brandish pistols. Again, we're not there yet. Guns in the wrong hands will do more to alienate or to cause panic than to dissuade. Everyone treat our guests with sympathy and respect, guests show your hosts your appreciation.

On a related subject, let's keep the rumors and exaggerations to ourselves. Rumors lead to suspicion, suspicion leads to fear, and fear leads to federal and state offices, banks and other businesses being shut down unnecessarily. That goes for idle office gossip, guests who call in on radio talk shows, and local leaders. Don't be THAT person.

I've talked some more people into volunteering with me at the PMAC tomorrow. One person said it was the least he could do. No, that's incorrect. The LEAST you could do is to sit in front of the television all day and comment on how bad things are or how badly our leaders are acting or how terribly our fellow citizens are behaving. The MOST you can do is to donate your worldly possessions to charity and work 24 hours a day doing volunteer work. But don't get crazy, folks. And don't be lazy either. Volunteer a few hours a week. Dig through your closet and donate the clothes or towels you don't need. It's not asking too much.

Satellite view of New Orleans

2005-09-01T13:57:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
DigitalGlobe.com has these photos on their Web site taken on Aug. 31, 2005: http://www.digitalglobe.com/katrina_gallery.html

You can see several areas of New Orleans are still underwater, but popular landmarks like the French Quarter and The Aquarium of the Americas look pretty dry.

Gas and shelter

2005-09-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Driving around today I could see long lines at gas stations. Everyone seems to be pretty civil at the pumps, so let's keep it up! I know fuel is becoming scarce, but more is on the way. Baton Rouge is lucky enough to have open roads for fuel tankers to travel, so be patient -- more is on the way.

Thanks for all the people that wrote in willing to take in stranded pets! You've put a lot of pet owner's minds at ease. Now it's time to start thinking about stranded people. I've seen too many families living out of cars in parking lots or under bridges. K. Nelson of Baton Rouge suggests opening up some of the abandoned "super-stores" such as " Schwegmann's (on Coursey); The Superstore (Greenwell Springs Rd.); K-Mart Supercenter (Millerville); Wal-Mart (Cortana Mall) and also the State Fairgrounds for a tent city. Sounds good to me. Get in touch with your local officials and let them know you've heard of a few available shelters.

Apartments are filling up fast. My apartment is at 100% occupancy (first time ever) and I'm sure other rental properties are almost maxed out. If you know of any open rental properties, or if you have extra room in your place, post them in the Comments link below.

Thanks to everyone who's helping out!

It's been a looooooooong day

2005-08-31T21:51:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
On my drive home from volunteering at the emergency triage center at the PMAC I noticed that several gas pumps were taped or bagged off indicating they were empty. Another station had long lines as patrons waited for a gas tanker to finish filling up the station's wells. I managed to find a station up and running and topped off my tank there.

I have a friend from New Olreans that's looking for someone to keep his cat for a while. If you know of a good home, let me know. If you are able to take any animal temporarily, post your contact info in the Comments section below.

It's late and been a long day without much good news. Thanks for all the great emails! I'll update the blog with more info on areas hit by Katrina tomorrow.

St. Tammany update

2005-08-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
I have an update on the condition of some of St. Tammany. I know a lot of you have been asking.

Rep. Tim Burns of Mandeville toured St. Tammany today and spoke about it on WBRZ Channel 2. He says that there is sporadic damage in Covington, mostly from wind and tree damage. Mandeville homes and residents along Lake Ponchartrain suffered flood damage. In Slidell, Burns specifically mentioned Crossgates and French Branch subdivisions as having been flooded, but that the waters had receded.

At this time, evacuees are not allowed to return to their homes in St. Tammany Parish, possibly for several days or weeks. Although I-12 is open for traffic, all exits are blocked.

Sorry guys. I grew up in Crossgates in Slidell and still have many friends in St. Tammany. It would be nice to hear some good news from the area.

People looking for people

2005-08-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
This came from the Louisiana State Police:

Louisiana State Police has requested all individuals who are offering assistance to Hurricane Katrina victims or to the rescue operation to contact the Red Cross via www.redcross.org or call 1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-495-7669). Citizens should not travel to the affected areas with their boats to assist in the rescue operation. Their concern is much appreciated; however, their presence will interfere with emergency personnel's efforts. Those seeking information on friends and loved-ones, who may have remained in the affected areas, should contact www.redcross.org or call 1-800-GET-INFO (1-800-438-4636), as Louisiana State Police is not maintaining a databank of rescued individuals.
State Police continues to ask the general public not to utilize the former LSP "Roadway Closure Hotline" for roadway or property damage information. That telephone number has been assigned as a "911" line for those individuals who are currently seeking immediate, emergency assistance in the Orleans Parish area. Individuals utilizing this number requesting information are impeding those emergency calls.

Residents of Orleans and surrounding parishes are not allowed to return at this time. Checkpoints and roadblocks have been established at all entry points, so no one, aside from authorized emergency personnel, will be allowed to enter those restricted areas.

Katrina Day 3 Morning Update

2005-08-31T05:53:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Good morning all! Here's the latest fringe news I've noticed or that you have sent in:

It looks like the rescue effort is gearing up. What seems to be most of the state's fleet of Wildlife Management boats were staging on Reiger Road near I-1o and Siegen Lane this morning. I also saw several other boats being towed by official vehicles.

SLU and Nichols State University students: these universities have still not decided on when they will open. Check back here for the latest.

This comes from Rebecca Galliot: "Gary and Monica Bell (Algeirs residents) escaped via plane to Indianapolis just in time. She had a baby boy, Gary Jr., on Sunday as Katrina hit New
Orleans. He's 7 lbs 4 oz, 21 1/2" long and in great shape."

A few people have sent in sites to help check on friends and loved ones you haven't been able to contact. Joshua Benton of Dallas created this site: http://www.katrinacheckin.org/.
Shane Toncrey sent this one: http://www.hurricane.ragingredfish.com/forum/.
Our friends at NOLA.com have set up popular bulletin board in the "Missing Persons - Lost & Found" box at the bottom of their homepage: http://www.nola.com/. Missy has created this site: http://www.hurricanekatrinahelpline.com/

If you have any more information to share, post it in the Comments link below, or email it to me: jhischer@theadvocate.com.

LSU cancels classes until Sept. 6

2005-08-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
From www.LSU.edu:
LSU cancels classes until Sept. 6, emergency medical operations set up on campus
Any change to the situation that might affect LSU will be posted on this Web site, disseminated through the state's news media, announced on KLSU 91.1 FM and added to LSU's emergency hotline number at 1-800-516-6444.

Read the full announcement here.

From LSU School of Veterinary Medicine:
The teaching hospital is now open, with limited services. All year 4 students should report to their blocks as usual Wednesday morning. Students will stay on Block 4A rotations for Wednesday and will move to 4B rotations on Thursday. Classes for phase 1 students (years 1, 2 and 3) will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 8 am. Check back at http://www.vetmed.lsu.edu/ for the latest.

School closings

2005-08-30T14:59:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
For those of you asking about school closings, here is the latest list: http://2theadvocate.com/livepages4/827.shtml

Please pass this along. SLU and Nicholls are now closed until Sept. 6.

Your photos

2005-08-30T14:15:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Here are some photos you have submitted:

Wendy Hutton sends in these photos attributed to Guy Fruge, Acadian Ambulance Offshore Paramedic. They show a work boat stranded on levee and crew boats washed up on Hwy. 23 near Port Sulphur.

This picture comes from Starr Breaux of Prairieville and "shows from Norton Ave. to Village Square, from St.Bernard Hwy to The Levees behind Buccaneer Villa. This confirms everything. You may not want to see it. It shows Andrew Jackson, Regions Building, WalMart, Home Depot, and more. I lived behind Home Depot. We lost everything. I guess we should all just take comfort in the fact that we have our lives and did not stay. And, do what we can to help get those who stayed out."

These photos of Baton Rouge were submitted by Monique Dunn. The power line that was falling down was located on Comite in Baton Rouge. The big tree that was down as located in Brownsfield off Kleinpeter in Baton Rouge.

This one comes from Dale Craft. Ironically, he says, this house off of Coursey was up for sale.

Thanks guys! If you would like to submit your photos, email them with a description to me at jhischer@theadvocate.com.

LSU vs. North Texas game postponed

2005-08-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
For those of you who were planning on coming to Baton Rouge for the LSU - North Texas game, that has been postponed. You can read all about it here: http://www.2theadvocate.com/stories/083005/lsu_lsuppd001.shtml

Finding friends, family

2005-08-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Our friends at NOLA.com have a great forum to find friends and family in the New Orleans and St. Tammany Parish areas. Go to their Web site at http://www.nola.com/ and scroll to the bottom of the page. You can view and post messages by area there.

Good luck!

How to help or get help

2005-08-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

I've received a lot of emails from concerned citizens wanting to know how to help out. Here's a link to FEMA's Web site with a list of charities and organizations: http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=18473

If you are seeking help, here is the link for you: http://www.fema.gov/about/process/

Thanks to all!

Good neighbors in Houston

2005-08-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
This comes from Leyla Perkins of Covington who traveled to Houston with her family to get away from Hurricane Katrina:

Yesterday, we went to the IKEA in Houston. There were signs all over telling Louisiana residents that they could eat for free in the restaraunt because of the hurricane. We enjoyed dessert and coffee, but we could have had a full meal for all of us if we'd chosen to. This morning, the local paper has a list of things to do in the city for people from LA, MS, and AL. Everything is free. All museums and the zoo are letting residents of those states in for free, and many of them will do so until the end of October. I guess that's because they know that people may be stuck here for quite some time.

Thanks Leyla! If anyone else has any stories about how outlying communities are helping out, post them in the Comments link below or send them to me: jhischer@theadvocate.com

UPDATE:

Here are a few more links of things to do at reduced cost in Houston provided by Dirk Van Tuerenhout:

http://www.click2houston.com/entertainment/4913764/detail.html

http://www.khou.com/topstories/stories/khou050830_mh_evacueeoffers.baffa7d.html

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/news/083005_local_entertainmentlist.html

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/metropolitan/3330494

A new day

2005-08-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
It looked like a lovely day this morning...not a cloud in the sky, a nice breeze and birds singing in the trees. That was me looking up. When I looked down, though, I was reminded there was a hurricane yesterday. Branches and other debris still litter most of Baton Rouge this morning.

Public Works crews are on the job clearing roads and power lines of felled trees and branches. Give them a friendly honk and wave as you pass -- that seems like a hot and thankless job today.

Power is still out in several Baton Rouge neighborhoods. Many key intersections still do not have a working traffic light, so plan on road delays all day.

Baton Rougeans are making do today dealing with damaged property and loss of power. Sister Maria Christela of the Dominican Convent was cooking chicken over a make-shift stove at her house on Hunderd Oaks this morning while she cleaned up her yard.

I still haven't heard anything official about the Northshore (for those of you who have asked) other than I-1o from New Olreans to Slidell has been destroyed. Unofficially, the rest of the area sounds pretty bad. I have friends that live there that I have not been able to contact, so if anyone can send information about that area, send them to me here: jhischer@theadvocate.com

Tell us your story

2005-08-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
Do you have an interesting story to tell about your experience with Hurricane Katrina? Post it in with the "Comments" link under this post -- or -- you can email stories and photos to me at jhischer@theadvocate.com

Ham radio operators helping to deliver messages to disaster areas

2005-08-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer
This comes from Dagmar Whittemore:

The Ham Radio operators from Lafayette are now handling Messages for the general public into and out of the disaster areas....

The Acadiana Amaetur Radio Asso. with the help of the Red Cross and the Salavation army, Is assisting the general public to get brief messages delivered. Call the Red Cross at (337) 234-7371 and request Health and welfare traffic. You will need to leave your name and a phone number ( so a return message can be delivered ) as well as the name address and any phone numbers for the person you are trying to contact. The Red Cross will relay the info to us and in turn we will relay the information Via the Ham Bands.

I have delivered messages into the Super Dome today. City emergency traffic takes priority, It could take up to 48 hrs to get a message delivered, depending on the emergency trafic of the area contacted

Thanks to Dagmar and all who are helping.

Hurricane Haiku

2005-08-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

Here is a hurricane haiku submitted by Francis Toche:

A Hurricane Haiku

Heavy branches down
Wind speaks of Katrina's wrath
Hurricane is here

Thanks Francis! If anyone else would like to send in a poem or thoughts, post them in the comments below.

Around town

2005-08-29T08:52:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

I just returned from a drive around town to see how everyone is fairing. There is a lot of damage, but nothing catastrophic that I've seen.

Highland Road and the surrounding neighborhoods have extensive tree damage. Branches have fallen on houses and taken down powerlines. Remember: don't monkey around powerlines!

Highland Road itself looks like an abandoned, ancient street where the forest has started to reclaim it. Leaves and branches litter the road and make it almost impassable.

At the intersection of Highland and Knox Hill, East Baton Rouge Deputy Jacky Brown, Sr. was turning around traffic because of a large tree that had fallen across the road. He said the Department of Public Works had been called, but didn't know when it would be cleaned up.

Nearby a tree had just fallen on a house. The owner came out in a t-shirt and boxers, took a quick look and then ran back inside. Across the street from him another tree had taken down some power lines.

At the Bank One building near Highland and Kenilworth, a group of friends had gathered to watch the storm from the bank's patio. From left to right, Beaux Nesbit, Greg Metzler, Kaitlyn Hoychick, Elizabeth Bowie, Lindsay Hoychick and Gabe Miller enjoyed the storm while sipping brews. If you get a chance you can join them, but Lindsay will be back at work at The Chimes later today.

Florida Boulevard was eerily devoid of traffic for this early in the morning. Many signs were flapping from their posts, some with pieces in the middle of the street.

At Gerry Lane Chevrolet on Florida Boulevard, a light pole had fallen on a new Chevy SSR damaging the bed slightly. An American flag sadly drooped from the window.

Closer to downtown, the Uptown sign was upside down! It had fallen from the roof into the parking lot on its top.

When I returned to my desk, water had come through the walls and pooled under my computer, so it had to be moved.

The wind is picking up now. It's some crazy times, people!

Katrina imminent

2005-08-29T03:19:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

"I didn't think it would actually happen." I'm sure that was a shared thought by many of us. But it looks like it will: Hurricane Katrina is upon us.

There were large gusts of wind and rain on my way to work this morning. Parking lots are filled with families sleeping in their cars -- I guess there are no more rooms to be found. There are still several gas stations and convenience stores that have remained open, as well as at least one Waffle House on Siegen Lane.

The network talking heads have all made their apocalyptic predictions for Southeast Louisiana and according to them, our doom is near. In the end Hurricane Katrina will be measured by her strength, the number of lives she took and the amount of damage she caused.

But, I believe, the true measure that matters will be how we react and deal with the aftermath. The homeless will need shelter, the hungry will need food and all victims, volunteers and emergency workers will need support. Help if you can.

Don't get too carried away tonight!

2005-08-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

My boss says there may be a curfew tonight, so stay posted for that. Also, the roads are getting crazy, so stay at home if you don't need to be out.

But if you are going out despite all of Katrina's potential dangers, email me at jhischer@theadvocate.com and tell me what you're doing. Send photos if you want.

Getting ready for Katrina

2005-08-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

By Joe Hischer
2theadvocate.com staff writer

I zipped around town this morning to see what people were doing to prepare for Hurricane Katrina. As you'd expect, gas station lines are getting longer, grocery store shelves are emptying and roads have more traffic than usual.

Of the many hard-working people out there today, one group that caught my attention was the Fire Engine Co. #9 located on Perkins Road and Valley Street. They are toiling in the hot sun filling sandbags for area residents. So, if you need sandbags or want to pitch in, go check them out.

Home owners are preparing by picking up loose furniture or ornmanents from their lawns and patios. Some swimming pool owners like Cypress Lakes Apartments are securing their furniture by throwing it into the pool.
A few people are preparing for hurricane parties tonight. I'll be "covering" that, so stay tuned.