My younger brother (I do not say "little" because he is rather larger
than I am) is an Air Force vet and a law student in Miami.
Jessica Burgess
Clearly Unedited
He just weathered Hurricane Wilma Monday morning – a Category 2 and 3
storm that killed six people – and is now stuck in his apartment with no
electricity and an 8 p.m. curfew. I called to see how he was doing. (And
to make fun of him.)
Me: Care to address the allegation that Dad told you to get out
of Miami before the storm?
Mike: Actually, the attitude around here was pretty laid back, so
I didn't panic.
Me: Were you scared?
Mike: No. I've been in a war, dude. I've been in a war against
Saddam Hussein.
Me: Whatever. So did you stock up on beer?
Mike: No, and the reason I don't get beer during hurricanes is
because last time, I think it was Rita, I went and got a 20-pack of
Coors Light and was like "I'm ready!" But then the electricity went out
and I drank two beers and then the rest were warm. I did stock up on
bourbon, however, which is OK if it's warm.
Me: What have you been doing with the electricity off?
Mike: I've been taking naps all day because it's the only escape
from this hell of boredom.
Me: What happens if you break your curfew?
Mike: [My friend] told me it was like a $1,000 fine and three
years in jail, but I don't think that's true. I think they just tell you
to go home.
Me: Is this the first time in your life you've had a curfew?
Mike: I think I might have had one when we were kids, but I don't
think it was enforced.
Me: Do you still have to turn in your law school homework?
Mike: School's closed today and tomorrow.
Me: Well, talk to you later. I'm going home, turning on all the
lights and appliances, and dancing around.
Mike: Have fun.
Jessica wishes she could help her brother drink his bourbon. E-mail
her at jburgess@quickdfw.com.
