Tales from Margaritaville...

A note from Robbie:

Hi Everyone,

Addy, the kids, and I are safe in Opelousas – about 120 miles northwest of New Orleans. We have not been able to get in touch with anyone in the city. I did speak with one of my employees early this morning who stayed behind and said it was horrible. She was in a high-rise condo near the airport in Kenner. She said you could see roofs tearing off of homes and debris everywhere. There were some other employees who were planning to remain behind, but I hope they’ve changed their mind. I have not been able to get in touch with any of them. I also had several neighbors who chose to ride out the storm and have not heard from them either.

I’ve heard reports that Margaritaville and the French Market area of the Quarter survived relatively unscathed. However, I don’t think the residential areas were quite so lucky. I’ve heard reports from friends that they believe their houses were underwater. From the aerial videos I could see on www.wdsu.com , it appeared much of the area just south of the lake was under water, not to mention the New Orleans East area or Chalmette and the areas further upriver. It doesn’t seem residents will be allowed to return for days or weeks.

I hope everyone was able to leave the area, and if not, that they are safe and sound.

Take care,
Robbie