You could say this is the calm before the storm.  I just finished my 5 p.m. live shot from the Vinoy Resort in St. Petersburg, where Republican gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist hopes to celebrate his victory later on tonight.  Outside the ballroom, where the hundreds of balloons hang in four nets over a podium that sits in front of a very large “Charlie CRIST” banner, you will find hotel staff workers preparing tables with food and beverages.

We are told that guests will begin arriving around 7.  Over in the corner, Senator Mel Martinez is offering soundbites to reporters.  Charlie Crist is in a “secluded” location—where I predict he will stay for most of the night or until the results confirm his victory or defeat.  The sound guy is now standing at the lectern giving us sound checks.

Again, it’s very quiet for now, but this place will probably be so loud with partiers later this evening that you can’t hear yourself think.  So goes the world of politics behind the scenes.  If you see me on TV at 6, you can imagine what’s around me.  I’m in one of two very long rows of reporters and camera people, most of us talking at the same time.  That usually lasts for about ten minutes and then the roar begins to fade and we all put down our microphones and wait for the next round.  I will try to update this blog throughout the night.  If you’re reading this, write kcate@wfla.com and tell me.  I’ll try to answer your questions.—Keith Cate

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