I will use this thread to keep you updated on the happenings:
It's back down to a strong Category 3 headed towards Southwest LA.
Hands On New Orleans which is in charge of managing and coordinating volunteer and EMS personell is requesting all staff, volunteer leaders, as well as any HONO alumni to return to Baton Rouge to prepare for the post hurricane response.
I do not feel that returning to Baton Rouge before the storm hits is a good idea. They are already out of gasoline, and other supplies are running low. Also, Baton Rouge is not entirely out of the projected area the hurricane will hit, which means it may still flood and may still lose power. Right now the contraflow will make returning to that area difficult and I don't want myself, or my girlfriend to be stranded in that city.
Right now here in Texas with much thanks to Amy's parents, we can rest, keep an eye on the storm, and are in a better position to collect supplies for the aftermath than what would be possible in Baton Rouge. However, in the event that Kellie, HONO's Executive Director who is also on the board of the state's disaster response team (and whom I know personally), were to mandate all staff to return, I will be returning with Amy to Baton Rouge. In fact I will go with her wherever she needs to go.
Brings back memories of AmeriCorps Choi+Amy.
HONO is also taking donations right now, but I cannot encourage donating money right now. I will speak with Amy and find out what HONO will need if anybody is interested. But this will of course be dependent on the events of the next few days.
Myself, Amy, Bri, and Nic are going to sit in on a conference call now. I'll keep you guys updated.
