navwin » Discussion » Announcements & Links » Preparing again.....
Announcements & Links
Post A Reply Post New Topic Preparing again..... Go to Previous / Newer Topic Back to Topic List Go to Next / Older Topic
Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley

0 posted 2005-10-19 11:15 AM



We are in hurricane warning mode again...maybe it's time to build an underground bunker?

© Copyright 2005 Poet deVine - All Rights Reserved
scorpio
Member Ascendant
since 2002-10-02
Posts 5178
right...there
1 posted 2005-10-19 11:47 AM


Sharon we have our eyes on this one.  It looks ominous.  I hope you are safe.  And a waterproof bunker, fully stocked, may be the answer.

believe in what your heart feels...

Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
2 posted 2005-10-19 11:56 AM


If you could build an underground bunker, wouldn't that be called a basement?  Head to high ground, m'dear...

in fact, I've room for you here!

Susan Caldwell
Member Rara Avis
since 2002-12-27
Posts 8348
Florida
3 posted 2005-10-19 12:10 PM


Come to Jacksonville!!!!

"too bad ignorance isn't painful"
~Unknown~

Enchantress
Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113
Canada eh.
4 posted 2005-10-19 12:31 PM


Everyone in Wilma's path, which looks like anyone in the Florida Keys, but who knows with these monster storms, please please take care and head inland.

This one is nothing to fool with..
they/CNN are saying it is the strongest storm in record history.

I do hope all our Florida members and others in Wilma's path will keep us informed as to their safety the next few days.

You will all be in our thoughts and prayers.

Nightshade
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962
just out of reach
5 posted 2005-10-19 01:01 PM


Good grief. My prayers are with you all in harm's way. Please be careful.

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

6 posted 2005-10-19 01:51 PM


Y'wanna come stay with US?

sighing tho

ain't it just ridiculous

stay safe

and um, if nothing else, we could go in the used refrigerator business?

shudder

suthern
Deputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Seraphic
since 1999-07-29
Posts 20723
Louisiana
7 posted 2005-10-19 02:16 PM


Stay safe, my friends....

Though I usually dread the holidays, I am SO ready for the end of this hurricane season I wish I could compress time... and make the end of November and its promised respite be NOW.

Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley
8 posted 2005-10-19 02:17 PM


Latest update: put up the hurricane shutters, buy your water, flashlight batteries, etc. and hunker down.

I've been asked to go to the Emergency Operations Center for our county again but this year, I've got Twin Duty - mom and dad are both working on Saturday which leaves Grandma Sharon babysitting the twins. Nothing comes between me and my twin-grandbabies!

And Karen I have thought about starting up a Refrigerator Store there! I'd be a millionaire in a month!

Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
9 posted 2005-10-19 03:42 PM


Just keep you and yours safe, Sharon.  
Our thoughts and prayers will be with all of you!

Dark Angel
Member Patricius
since 1999-08-04
Posts 10095

10 posted 2005-10-19 03:58 PM


Stay Safe Sharon, and everyone in Wilma's way...sigh.

~i want for myself your trembling~

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
11 posted 2005-10-19 05:23 PM


If it doesn't rain ~ it pours! Torrentially!
I'm praying fervently lika an angel on the road to hell, that Wilma loses momentum and swings out into the Alantic!

Meteorologists say that hurricane season lasts until the end of November!?! My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in this hurricane's path! Big time!

Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
12 posted 2005-10-19 05:37 PM


I don't like this one at all...those are words that could go on a tombstone

DeVine, I'll swear we didn't start having this many hurricanes until you moved here! coincidence......?

SmartChick
Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081
On A Journey To The Unknown
13 posted 2005-10-19 05:52 PM


Oh my gosh! Will it ever end? All of you in Wilma's path, please go somewhere safe.
Startime55
Member Elite
since 2003-04-05
Posts 2148
Alberta, Canada
14 posted 2005-10-19 05:57 PM


My prayers are with you all...please keep safe....*sigh*..will this never end for you all...**BIG HUGS*
Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049
California
15 posted 2005-10-19 06:19 PM


Keeping Florida and anyone in the path of Wilma in my prayers!!  
serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

16 posted 2005-10-19 06:28 PM


Jeeeeeeeeeeeeeez.

I was kidding earlier, but to all my Florida friends?

We do have room, and plenty of air mattresses and M.R.E.'s.

Please get outta there.

Marge Tindal
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-06
Posts 42384
Florida's Foreverly Shores
17 posted 2005-10-19 06:56 PM



This flat-dab sucks !
I'm tired of being bossed around by these bizarre barometric broads !!!

Keeping a wary eye on this one~

All be safe~
*Huglets*
~*Marge*~

~*No matter what I search for ...
let me know when it is LOVE that I find*~ <))><

Email - noles1@totcon.com

Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley
18 posted 2005-10-19 07:45 PM


Mike? Exactly MY thoughts...what have I done? Last night one of the buildings at our plant burned down, we had torrential rain all day (it was BAD) and a small plane crashed into a building about a mile from where I work...

Is there someone who could 'exorcise' me? I think my head may be turning around and around and I'll be spitting green slime any minute!!

Stay safe...this one's gonna be a bad one...



serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

19 posted 2005-10-19 07:53 PM


Alas, I had to stop performing exorcisms.

The herds of swine were getting costly and the P.E.T.A. people were getting a bit testy.



If hugs can keep ya safe, I send you all kjillions...




Larry C
Deputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286
United States
20 posted 2005-10-19 08:14 PM


Just for the record, it's pretty calm here in Phoenix. Ya' know you guys are scaring the crap out of me. You gotta stop this, okay?

If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.

Nan
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-20
Posts 21191
Cape Cod Massachusetts USA
21 posted 2005-10-19 09:23 PM


Could someone put up a detour sign on the Gulf ASAP??...

Sharon - There's a reason why there aren't any basements in Florida... High ground for sure..

Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
22 posted 2005-10-19 10:08 PM


High ground? I should stand on a speed bump???
serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

23 posted 2005-10-19 10:10 PM


Or take cover in a foxhole...


Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley
24 posted 2005-10-19 10:18 PM


High ground? LOL Now that's funny...the only high ground here is some farmers hidden marijuana field!


Sigh...oh well. Won't be long til this hurricane season is over and we won't have to worry about it until JUNE!


serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

25 posted 2005-10-19 10:27 PM


hmmm....maybe I'll come see you.




sandgrain
Member Elite
since 1999-09-21
Posts 3662
Sycamore, IL, USA
26 posted 2005-10-19 10:27 PM


Please don't take any chances.  Pack yourselves a nice survival kit and stay in touch.  Praying you won't have to use it, though.

Prayers and ((((((hugs))))),

   Rae

Mysteria
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
27 posted 2005-10-19 11:33 PM


I simply can't believe what I'm reading here.  I have been out of touch for days with the reality of a major move and not had the t.v., radio, or this computer on.  When I finally get it connected, I see here comes yet another one?  Good grief!  Well, I can think of worse things than taking cover in that field about now Sharon. You all have had a way too stressful hurricane season that has taken a round out of far too many.  Please plan ahead and stay safe won't you all?  All I can do is send you down  my .
Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
28 posted 2005-10-20 12:05 PM


LOLOL! Something about PDV's neighborhood you fancy, Serenity?
serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

29 posted 2005-10-20 12:35 PM


tsk...it just seems like such a....waste.



Bring flypaper?

Hell, bring, paper(s).

iliana
Member Patricius
since 2003-12-05
Posts 13434
USA
30 posted 2005-10-20 03:00 AM


My brother and his family just evacuated south Florida....this time they're taking it seriously, thank goodness!

Prayers for everyone there and up NE who may be affected by floods as a results.  I can't believe the past two years!!!!

nakdthoughts
Member Laureate
since 2000-10-29
Posts 19200
Between the Lines
31 posted 2005-10-20 08:17 AM


I am hoping it lessens its strength...I dislike the fear the media puts into every report ...though I am sure it is necessary to get people to move out of the storm area .

Stay safe...my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

M

vlraynes
Member Rara Avis
since 2000-07-25
Posts 8229
Somewhere... out there...
32 posted 2005-10-20 02:34 PM



Sharon, 'deer, Marge and everyone else
in Wilma's path... please stay safe...



"When the power of love overcomes the love
of power the world will know peace."
--Jimi Hendrix

Joyce Johnson
Deputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Rara Avis
since 2001-03-10
Posts 9912
Washington State
33 posted 2005-10-21 08:01 PM


I simply can't believe that this can happen again.  I know you are all watching and will tke care.  Adding all of you to my prayer list.  Love,  Joyce
Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
34 posted 2005-10-23 12:21 PM


Well, it's finished with cancun and it appears to be our turn. Hurricane warnings are out...good luck, fellow Floridians!
Trillium
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-03-09
Posts 12098
Idaho, USA
35 posted 2005-10-23 05:47 AM


Such terrible news that you Floridians are bracing for another hurricane. I pray you all come through it safely!

Love
Betty Lou

Betty Lou Hebert

Titia Geertman
Member Ascendant
since 2001-05-07
Posts 5182
Netherlands
36 posted 2005-10-23 05:55 AM


Please take care everyone.
I want to see you all back safe and sound, you hear!

Titia

Like scattered leaves...my words will flow

Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley
37 posted 2005-10-23 06:54 AM


No one in my area seems to be evacuating. I'm staying with my daughter but? I have to go into work at noon today for a few hours..how odd is that?

Stay safe and let's hope this is the last one this year!

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

38 posted 2005-10-23 07:24 AM


I talked to this guy in a bar in Crowley--lucky me, I ran into an engineer! (I swear my life works that way.)

He told me it was the illusion of safety that got people killed.

YOU STAY SAFE.

I don't care if it's a category .2!


SmartChick
Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081
On A Journey To The Unknown
39 posted 2005-10-23 10:46 AM


All of you there in Florida, please stay safe. And, check in as soon as you can to let us know you are alright.
Midnitesun
Deputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647
Gaia
40 posted 2005-10-23 03:56 PM


I guess my idea of going to Cancun in a couple of years is permanently tabled, not to mention visiting Florida. It's hard to believe Wilma could outdo Katrina, but it's not a lovely lady you've ordered those NOT welcome shingles for, so I hope you'll consider tonight the night to leave for a vacation elsewhere if you can. And if you can't, I'll be at work tonight thinking of you, hoping your candles stay dry.
And a possible nightmare named Alpha is right behind Wilma, so is anyone wanting to visit the west coast for Halloween?????

Dark Angel
Member Patricius
since 1999-08-04
Posts 10095

41 posted 2005-10-23 04:59 PM


Please stay safe everyone in Wilma's path.

to all

Maree.

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
42 posted 2005-10-23 05:07 PM


Kacy ~ I just read your reply and you mentioned that there is an Alpha brewing! Better to be named Alpha than Omega!

I just heard on the news that Wilma is beginning to strengthen and may become a category three at landfall with storm surges up to 17 feet in some areas.

The good news is that it is expected to not be a prolonged event.

Love & Protection to all in her path!


Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
43 posted 2005-10-23 05:09 PM


They're talking now of a superstorm, where Wilma and another may meet...

damn it, you kids...

what the heck potion have you all been brewing?  

Ok, only the above with the exception of the last two lines, was true.

Please, please...if you have somewhere to go?

Don't wait.

and take your loved ones with you.

ALL of us...need a break from southern weather.  I think this winter?  We notherners are going to need a place southernly [I think its going to snow - hard!]...so while you can, folks, pick a place to reside elsewhere for awhile, so that when we DO decide to come visit?  We'll know where to find you!


Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
44 posted 2005-10-23 05:46 PM


a strong surge but not a prolonged event? Earth Angel, you referring to my sex life????
Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
45 posted 2005-10-23 07:07 PM


Balls-of-Deer ~

Buck of course not! Well, perhaps the first part of that statement is correct, but I would venture to say the last part is not!

BTW I love a Deer One with a sense of humour! You are adorable! Flirty


Linda
P.S. Perhaps your surge might be less than the 17 feet, but I would venture to say that yours must still be rather formidable. Flirty 2

P.P.S. Keep safe from Wilma! Perhaps if you showed her your surge, she might veer off over the Atlantic!

All joking aside, I truly hope you and yours ~ and everybody else ~ will be safe from harm. Prayers are on the rise from this naughty "angel".

Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
46 posted 2005-10-23 07:31 PM


Thank you, Angel....yes, that was a little gallows humor on my part.

The bad news is the hurricane is aimed at me. The good news is that the tv station said they would suspend hurricane arrival coverage when Desperate Housewives comes on at 9....it's a wonderful life

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
47 posted 2005-10-23 08:01 PM


Mike, that is BAD news! But knowing you, you could manage to withstand a direct hit from an irate woman ~ but please don't try it!

I hope that you and Fran plan to vacate the area! Don't go pulling any of that macho stuff ~ and remember there are bugs to be found elsewhere. Roach

The only hurricane that I weathered was when I was 5 years old and I was blown away by the intensity of it! ~ Literally! I landed in Kansas! But that's another story.

Be smart! Keep safe! ~ and my prayers are with you!


Linda

[This message has been edited by Earth Angel (10-24-2005 02:49 AM).]

Nightshade
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962
just out of reach
48 posted 2005-10-23 08:49 PM




~praying yet again for all in harm's way~


Mysteria
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
49 posted 2005-10-24 12:57 PM


Good grief! I just have gotten back online and here I come back and find you all waiting for another storm? I haven't even had time to see the news to be honest, but know enough from the last one, that I will sure be praying for you all down there.  Think smart and stay safe please all you wonderful Florida folks.
Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
50 posted 2005-10-24 02:55 AM


It is nearly 3 AM where I am and I have been watching the CNN coverage of Hurricane Wilma. She has been up-graded to a category 3 and southern Florida is going to be hit hard. I pray all our Pip friends have gotten out of the area and out of harm's way. ~ And that they still will have homes to come home to.

Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
51 posted 2005-10-24 03:33 AM


Things are getting a little breezy now. The full force is hitting Key West and we have 3-4 hours before it gets here. I'm not worried, though. I'm hiding behind Sy's wife, Isabel, who has promised me protection. Not even a hurricane would mess with Isabel!
Marge Tindal
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-06
Posts 42384
Florida's Foreverly Shores
52 posted 2005-10-24 10:52 AM



Reporting in from East/Central Florida ...
windy and raining ... but nothing we haven't seen before~

The Ft. Lauderdale area looks to be under siege pretty hard ... ya'll stay safe~
*Huglets*
~*Marge*~

~*No matter what I search for ...
let me know when it is LOVE that I find*~ <))><

Email - noles1@totcon.com

Enchantress
Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113
Canada eh.
53 posted 2005-10-24 11:11 AM


Thanks for the update from where you are Marge...

The pics from CNN are incredible!

Stay safe, and I do wish all our Floridian
members would check in as soon as they possibly can.

Still holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Nancy

Susan Caldwell
Member Rara Avis
since 2002-12-27
Posts 8348
Florida
54 posted 2005-10-24 11:12 AM


for those that emailed the yahoo account...I am having a hard time getting into that email..so if you didn't get a response yet...it's not cause I don't love ya!...

Anyway, Jacksonville is wet, a bit windy and COLD!  But otherwise, we are fine and usually are...(I love tempting fate/karma...it/they owe me).

Balladeer?  Please let us know when you can how you are?  and Sharon...and anyone else down below?



"too bad ignorance isn't painful"
~Unknown~

Enchantress
Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113
Canada eh.
55 posted 2005-10-24 11:17 AM


Thanks for your update Susan.

Now...let's hope we hear from Balladeer, Seymour, PDV, and any others in Wilma's path soon!

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

56 posted 2005-10-24 02:02 PM


Looking for check ins too. Sigh. Hard to do without power tho. sigh.

Worried here...

Marge Tindal
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-06
Posts 42384
Florida's Foreverly Shores
57 posted 2005-10-24 02:27 PM



.... to resume what I was typing in (as I was so rudely interrupted by a power outage)


... there are major power outages across the state ... primarily in the southern portions~
The energy companies are out attempting to bring them back online ...~

The Lauderdale, and southwest and southeastern portions of the state took the brunt of this hurricane ... the hurricane moved quickly and a little more ferousciously than first thought ...~

It is about done with us and exiting into the Atlantic ... where it will do the Wilma shuffle and go goodness only knows !!

The sun has now come through in my area ... but the temps are quite chilly for us spoiled Floridians !

She's still gusting winds and growling as she heads onward~

I'm sure those we are most concerned about will check in when the power is restored~

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

58 posted 2005-10-24 02:50 PM


I didn't do it Marge.



and if anyone just hears from anyone, check in FOR them, k?


Nightshade
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962
just out of reach
59 posted 2005-10-24 02:54 PM


Any new updates?
Prayin' still here.

Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
60 posted 2005-10-24 03:35 PM


Doing ok here...a lot of damage but we're all safe. Power is out for almost 3 million so i won't be on for a while, I'm sure...just getting this in on limited battery power.

Thanks for the concern...see ya when i can

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

61 posted 2005-10-24 03:39 PM








and hey? Let me know if you need any socks, k?




vlraynes
Member Rara Avis
since 2000-07-25
Posts 8229
Somewhere... out there...
62 posted 2005-10-24 03:50 PM



'deer...

So glad you're safe, my friend...



"When the power of love overcomes the love
of power the world will know peace."
--Jimi Hendrix

Nightshade
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962
just out of reach
63 posted 2005-10-24 04:17 PM


Whew!
Titia Geertman
Member Ascendant
since 2001-05-07
Posts 5182
Netherlands
64 posted 2005-10-24 08:48 PM


So glad you're safe Marge and Deer and I'm sending loads of knuffels to keep you warm.

Titia

Like scattered leaves...my words will flow

Justbleu
Member Elite
since 1999-08-31
Posts 3329
Oregon, Originally From Alaska :)
65 posted 2005-10-25 07:30 AM



Poet deVine
Administrator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-05-26
Posts 22612
Hurricane Alley
66 posted 2005-10-25 09:19 AM



Checking in...I'm at work (we have generator power). I stayed with my daughter and their house is ok ( a little water damage ) but otherwise all is ok. I haven't been home to my condo yet so I'm not sure if I have a home but as long we're all ok, it doesn't matter!

And I do have a funny story.......but it's going to have to wait until I have time to write it down...

Hope you are ok there in Ft. Lauderdale..guess they got it worse than I did up here...



iliana
Member Patricius
since 2003-12-05
Posts 13434
USA
67 posted 2005-10-25 04:20 PM


Deer & Sharon -- so glad you made it thru!   ....jo
serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

68 posted 2005-10-25 06:52 PM


I KNEW you'd be okay--ain't nothin' comin' inbetween you and your babies!



and yes, whew!

Mysteria
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
69 posted 2005-10-26 12:25 PM


Make that a double whew and sure hope all goes well at your condo too   Let's hope we hear from the rest of the Florida folks soon.  Enuf already with this weather!
Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
70 posted 2005-10-29 02:43 PM


Beautiful downtown Ft. Lauderdale is not so beautiful anymore. Windows reflecting rays of the ever-present Florida sun are shattered, leaving gaping holes in the tall buildings lining the skylight of the city that stretches down the atlantic as far as the eye can see. Boats are piled up like matchsticks along the bays. Driving through the residential communities, I was reminded of the Skakespearian line, "Who would have thought the old man had so much blood in him?", although in this case, it would be "Who would have thought there were so many trees in Florida?" Huge piles of broken limbs and shattered trunks line the streets, not unlike fortress gates, these being made of palm, black olive,eucalyptus, strangles fig and malaleucas. The majority of screened-in patios have been obliterated. The infra-structure is almost non-existant. After Wilma hit, 98% of the power in Dade County, home of Miami, and Broward county, home of Ft. Lauderdale, and Palm Beach county was gone. Now, five days after landfall, almost half the power has been restored with a target date of November 24th to get everyone back in full service. A large portion of the phone system is also gone. Cell phones have becone the communication life-blood, albeit spotty since the wireless networks were not designed to handle such a load. Traffic signals are out and people are instructed to use the "four-way stop' mentality when crossing busy intersections. Fortunately there is much lesstraffic because there are almost no gas stations open to pump gas. Each day a few more open and lines of hundreds of vehicles appear out of nowhere, mny running out of gas while in the 4-6 hour waiting line (and praying that the gas at the pumps doesn't run out before they get there.)
     Each morning begins with - the hunt. Just as our ancestors hunted each day for food to survive, we hunt a prey much more elusive than the swiftest elk or strongest buffalo. We hunt for ice. FEMA has stations set up in every town for ice, water and hot meals. Get there early, take a book, and within 2-4 hours, you may be able to walk away with 2 bags of ice and a case of water, very necessary since the majority of Broward county is under a boiled-water alert. Then it is rushing home as fast as possible before it melts, utilizing the 4-way stop mentality, of course. The day after the hurricane was rough. Thousands of people lined up for water and ice, out-of-state FEMA drivers got lost, there were fuel problems, and the delays were long. Reporters were everywhere, of course, and every scream at FEMA or the government brought them rushing like flies to a garbage dump. One lady in line said, "We didn't know it would be this bad."  DUH! It was aimed right at us. The cool front moving down from the north and the southern front moving up created an alleyway Wilma could not escape from. It HAD to hit us. There was nowhere else for it to go. Ok, some people felt that something might happen to let us escape once again, as we had done several times in the past two years. Even so, couldn't these people have taken two or three minutes to fill up an empty gallon jug or two with water JUST IN CASE??? Then there wouldn't have been lines of thousands the day after. I wouldn't expect them to go out and buy a few bags of ice JUST IN CASE because that would require physical activity on their part but couldn't they have put the ice they had in zip-lock bags and made more to have on hand? Ok, so they didn't and that was their choice. People are entitled to make their own decisions. Life also states that people have to live by the decisions they make and the ridiculous part was that THESE people who made no effort to prepare were the ones screaming loudest in lines for the government to do something - NOW! The same was true of the gasoline. At any time on Sunday night, anyone could have gotten gas anywhere. on monday night, after wilma hit, people were screaming that they had no gas - GOVERNMENT, DO SOMETHING!!!!  I've stood in these ice lines and have yet to hear one person complain about either FEMA or the government and I live in Broward county - a county that has never voted Republican in it entire history. People accept the fact that we got smacked with a major hurricane and it will take time to rebound and most people are sppreciative for whatever help we receive. Naturally, the one out of hundreds who screams is the one most likely to be highlighted on the evening news.
     One of the more incredible statistics to come out of this tragedy is that there was no looting. Anyone familiar with the makeup of Miami and Ft. Lauderdale can understand how astonishing this is. Many shopping and residential areas were devastated, leaving themselves open to looters. On the night of the hurricane, a 7 o'clock curfew was immediately implemented. State national guard troops were sent in the augment the local police forces. For the first three days following the hurricane, there were six reported cases of looting, with one arrest, in all of Miami and ft. Lauderdale, an amazing statistic.
     So that's it. I'll take this across town to a friend of mine who has a working telephone and get it to you. We wait for power, phones, gas and basic services to return. My faith in my fellow man has been restored greatly in the past week. People are friendly, helpful and considerate to others, as lest for now. We went through a tough time together and we'll get through it together. My respect for Serenity's ability to handle what she went through has increased greatly, too.
     So flip on a light switch, enjoy a cold beverage and appreciate the fact that you can. I'll be back soon........

...and thank you for the well-wishes. Sock supply is ok

Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049
California
71 posted 2005-10-29 03:09 PM


Deer...Did any one ever tell you that you should be a writer?  Very interesting...should go out to newspapers, I think.  I'm so glad that you are safe!!
Marge Tindal
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-06
Posts 42384
Florida's Foreverly Shores
72 posted 2005-10-29 03:09 PM


Balladeer~
Knowing all of these feelings just too, too well after last year's hits on our area~
We did take the warnings seriously ... did stock up ... did maintain our sense of humor and gratitude and came out of it with deeper appreciation for what we daily take for granted~

Sending loving thoughts to all~
*Huglets*
~*Marge*~

~*No matter what I search for ...
let me know when it is LOVE that I find*~ <))><

Email - noles1@totcon.com

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
73 posted 2005-10-29 04:04 PM


Balladeer ~

I appreciated hearing your Deer's-eye view first hoof. ~ I mean, "bird's-eye view, first hand"!

You have been through so much and your descriptive and informative write brought the devastation that Wilma wreaked so much closer to this arm-chair viewer.

You are a marvellous writer ~ no matter what form you choose to scribe your thoughts.

I am pleased that you and yours survived the storm and have lived to tell about it.

Love & Light,
Linda

serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

74 posted 2005-10-29 04:11 PM


This is so unfair...

It should NOT have happened to you, m'deer.



Please take care of you Mike.

*touching the screen*

you know I know you know I know...


serenity blaze
Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738

75 posted 2005-10-29 04:13 PM


and oh...I wanted to buy you dinner, so I was going to send you an M.R.E.

I guess that's been taken care of tho...

But they really are fascinating, the first few days anyhow.

sigh


Enchantress
Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113
Canada eh.
76 posted 2005-10-29 04:19 PM


Thanks for checking in 'Deer.
Glad you stocked up on Spam!

You know, this is so well written it should be on the Editorial page of your local paper.
You are such an excellent writer..
and much more informative than CNN!

Take care of you and those close to you.

We'll be right here waitin' for your return.

Titia Geertman
Member Ascendant
since 2001-05-07
Posts 5182
Netherlands
77 posted 2005-10-30 06:07 AM


Sweet Balladeer, thanks for letting us in on what's happening in Ft. Lauderdale.
You know how happy I am that both of you came out safe.

Lots of knuffels en hugs my friend, I'll keep you in my thoughts.

Titia

Like scattered leaves...my words will flow

Mysteria
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
78 posted 2005-11-04 01:01 AM


How's about an update you dear folks down in Florida?  Power yet?  Getting back to normal somewhat?  Been a very bad, bad year and my heart sure goes out to all of you.
Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
79 posted 2005-11-04 10:35 PM


Power came on last night for me. It was a long 11 days without it. There are still 200,000 people without so I feel lucky. Things are getting back to normal, sort of. There are still over 900 traffic signals out so the driving is still adventurous. Gas stations have basically re-opened since the station owners became smart enough to realize that if they bought generators to run the pumps they could make a lotta bucks. Stores are about half-stocked but getting better. Piles of debris still line the streets but they are working on clean-up - there is just so much it will take a while. Two of the nearby golf courses have opened up 9 holes for play while they work at cleaning up the other nine. In the very hard-hit areas there are still poles and transformers lying in the streets and those folks have a long wait for power. Schools will resume next week and there have been over 2,300 houses and apartments condemned in ft. Lauderdale. People have been given hours to salvage whatever they can and move out - to who knows where. Many have gone to the Red Cross shelters which are all set up in school buildings so when school re-opens they are out. My heart goes out to them.

Life goes on.....as does the recovery process.

Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
80 posted 2005-11-05 12:10 PM


Sounds as if your home made it through...
thank them that be.

Need Spam?

Mysteria
Deputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 10 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
81 posted 2005-11-05 12:11 PM


Glad to hear you have power again and are not one of those asked to leave their home.  This has been one sad year for you all down that way, and I can only hope you all don't get a repeat of it next year. I imagine the clean-up process is going to be a long and involved one, but sooner or later you will hopefully be back to somewhat normal.  My heart sure goes out to you all down there, and thanks for updating us all.
Post A Reply Post New Topic ⇧ top of page ⇧ Go to Previous / Newer Topic Back to Topic List Go to Next / Older Topic
All times are ET (US). All dates are in Year-Month-Day format.
navwin » Discussion » Announcements & Links » Preparing again.....

Passions in Poetry | pipTalk Home Page | Main Poetry Forums | 100 Best Poems

How to Join | Member's Area / Help | Private Library | Search | Contact Us | Login
Discussion | Tech Talk | Archives | Sanctuary