PRESS RELEASE

Calcasieu Update
LAKE CHARLES (September 13, 2008) - The Parish-Wide curfew remains in effect at this time.  Law enforcement personnel will enforce a zero-tolerance policy for pedestrians after 8pm. Enforcement of the curfew during daylight hours will focus on sight-seers and others without legitimate business.  Churchgoers will be allowed to attend services.

For those residents who have evacuated, you may return to Calcasieu Parish.  However, be aware that some sections of major roadways are currently flooded and closed to traffic.  Please also be aware that community services are very limited at this time.  You should be able to support yourself for the next 3-5 days.

Local officials also encourage businesses that are able to open at this point, to do so. 

Second Harvest is opening feeding sites around the parish.  The first is opening at 4pm Sunday at Church of the King 2145 Oak Park Blvd., in Lake Charles and will continue serving until dark.  Other locations will be announced as they are opening.  More information can be obtained through the 211 information line and at www.no-hunger.org.

All boat traffic is closed in Calcasieu Parish.

A temporary shelter is available at the MLK Center at 2009 North Simmons in lake Charles. Evacuees going to the temporary shelter should bring medicine, bedding and any other personal items they may need.

The next briefing will be at 12 noon Sunday at the Parish Government Building at 1015 Pithon Street in Lake Charles.

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