Where were you at eleven o’clock this morning? The Hurricane Response Team is made up of Volunteers who have worked their buns off to get this Drill ready each year. Today was no exception. Except for the poor attendance. To those who did show up, thank you for taking time to learn about what you need to do to prepare for a hurricane if it comes to our area. Perhaps this will be the last one. 

We had a speaker from Highlands County Emergency Management, Planning Commission, come to speak and observe our facility and drill. Lorie Jackson spoke about the Special Needs Shelters that go up every year for those who have medical needs that require constant electricity. We had several of them in the  audience this morning who were grateful to hear about the facility. 

Greg Plank was challenged by a feisty couple, played by Gail and Tom McKeever, who brought too much luggage and the husband asked more questions than Greg could answer as they made their way up to the front of the room and attempted to place their luggage underneath the cots.  Jeff Laurion explained the registration process while his wife, Marnie, was busy with data entry of those who were completing the registration forms. At the end of the drill she had entered everyone’s name into the computer system. They will all be eligible for using the pool lounge chairs if needed. The last count at the end of today was 73 out of 100 possible entries were taken. 

Steve & Irene Sykes spoke about what food to bring during the storm and afterward when they begin cooking meals for those without power. During the aftermath of Irma, they cooked three meals a day for about three weeks for those still without power. 

Pastor Bill spoke to the residents about their options on where to stay or go if a hurricane was deemed immanent. Evacuation back up North, stay in the Hurricane Shelter Clubhouse, or stay in your home.  You need to have a plan and let your relatives and the office know who to reach in case something happens to you and your spouse.  Hurricane Packets should be ready to pick up at the office next week. They include forms inside with a place for that information. Also, what to bring to the clubhouse and what Not to bring.

The Drill ended with a question answer time and the residents were invited to walk around the room and see what signage had been posted for their safety and information. Coffee and snacks were also on hand as a thank you for attending the Drill.