As Irma Approaches

On the flight from the Quad Cities there was this curtain separating the 1st class from coach passengers. The attendant took their drink orders before take-off and made sure they were properly served in a timely fashion after takeoff. I don't think I'm a 1st class kind of guy.

In Chicago while waiting for my flight south I noticed this guy reading a book and bobbing behind the partition.

Our plane reflected on the water as we bank toward the airport.

Shelves were empty in Publix grocery store as we went to get me some coffee and milk.

Sights during my 3:00 am walk around the block in Largo.

This business is boarded up and with a message for Irma.

This gas station was closed for gas earlier, but I noticed the local gendarmes were lining up this early morning. Perhaps stations keep enough for emergency vehicles. I don't know, but it makes sense.

Cost of gas was $2.69 before they all started closing up.

You just can't find any right now. Gas is gold.

Apparently there is some conflicting view of taped windows. Waterboard sent notes to renters not to tape windows as they make for larger, and more dangerous, shards of glass.

I was quite surprised to see all these cars at the Largo High School as I turned the 3rd corner of my block. I suppose it was a meeting of local emergency personnel as Irma approaches. This was at approximately 4:00 am.

(Turned out this was not a meeting of emergency personnel, but rather that the high school had already started to shelter those who were under a mandatory evacuation.)

Here at Waterboard preparations are continuing. 2 cakes baked, boxes of snacks in the corner, bookcases moved in front of the rear sliding glass doors. Funny side note: my buddy Jeff, who had to flee Tybee Island messaging the current Mrs. Blythe "Make sure Mike doesn't go out and photograph the storm." (Thanks, but fat chance, Mr. Sutor)

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