The Storm

I’ve got a job to do and that's to take back to my boss a good, first-hand report a bout what’s really going on down here.” “I like your spirit, Boy. Reminds me of me a million years ago.” “Thank you, Sir,” I responded. “I have five days to do this including return flights, so I have a limited amount of time to finish the task. And my boss says that you're the man that can help." “Okay”, the major replied. "Here’s the scoop. Forget Livingston Parish. It’s underwater and only boats and choppers are getting in and out of there. That’s north -west from here and the people of Colyell are evacuated out. You would be stopped by security forces there anyway. Too dangerous, even for brave young reporters. Go North out of Baton Rouge on Highway 19, which has remained open. You will be headed slightly north east towards Baker, and, strange enough, the town of Zachary." "From Baker or Zachary," he continued, "you can ask the locals where you can get access to the flood plain where a lot of folks have been affected by the storm, even more so than Baton Rouge. Ethel, Clinton, Jackson, and Slaughter. That might be your best bet but ask before yo go up there. You can go over towards Colyell, but the roads are barricaded, and you couldn’t get the photos that you need. The road just disappears into fast running water, and no view of the town at all. Your best bet is North. You’ll be going around the totally flooded areas. Stay far east of the river and you should be safe. Maybe." "Cell towers are not transmitting where you're going," he continued, "so take this 2-meter radio and communicate your position. I t’s set to our emergency frequency, and if you get in a jam, I’ll send a 'copter in. If you see an emergency

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