It's been a busy day. But finally, after the 6pm news, we got to take a break. It's a mixed blessing. We need the down time to get a little food, rest, and recharge, but slowing down also allows us to catch up on the latest on Gustav.
Lots of people think that because we're on the front lines, we know everything that's happening. Actually, we're pretty isolated. We know everything that's happening on the island. At this point, that's not much considering just about everyone has evacuated already.
While we're working, we don't have much time to concern ourselves with the rest of the world. We just concentrate on getting the job done. In down time, we check with our sources in the area, consult with the newsroom, talk to our families, and worry. Thank God there's not much down time to speak of.
We've got a television and we're catching the latest updates from the news like everyone else. From all reports, Gustav is going to be a lot bigger and badder than any of us really bargained for.
No one really wants to admit it, but the knot in each of our stomaches is pretty evident by the looks on our faces. We're in no danger now. But we're worried about tomorrow. Where will we be? Will we find a place to hunker down before all hell breaks loose.
Tonight we sat down to a hearty meal -- pastalaya my folks gave me when I blew through Thibodaux last night. It'll probably be our last real food until Wednesday. But we won't starve. We've still got MRE's, sandwich provisions, and some deer sausage we packed Friday -- at least I think it was Friday. You kind of lose track of time when days are as busy as they are here.
Cheryl Mercedes and photojournalist Charles Holmes showed up this afternoon. They're covering what's going on on the island tonight. From where I sit, inside our satellite truck, it doesn't look like much, but they've found a few stragglers boarding up in the dark. From what Cheryl told me over the phone a few minutes ago, they sound like a hoot. You'll get to meet them on WAFB tomorrow morning.
As soon as our 10p.m. shot is done, I'm gonna grab a bottle of water, spend a few minutes alone with my thoughts on the beach, and turn in. Tomorrow is another long, busy day.
- Rick Portier
Hey Rick!
Thank you for your stories and your dedication to give us the best information and updates on Gustav. My family and I want you and the team to be very careful. I will keep an extra cold beer in the fridge for you when You come back! Be safe!
Posted by: yourbonhamneighbor | August 31, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Hey Rick, I know the feeling you're feeling right now. Great blog. Be careful chasing the storm. After tomorrow night you may have a lot to polish, if you know what I mean. Keep up the good work. God speed!
Posted by: Kenny P | August 31, 2008 at 04:30 AM
Man I think what you are doing is pretty crazy, but i think that the commitment to journalism is what makes you a man to admire. i personally would not have stayed, and got out of there with the rest of the folks. Good luck and can't wait to see the Gustav footage.
Posted by: IfoundAhero | August 30, 2008 at 10:37 PM