Hello from South Louisiana

Jeff Fuchs · 08-31-2005, 05:27 PM

My part of the state was undamaged, but I have a family staying with me from the North Shore, and they don't know when they'll be able to return home. People are already talking about staying where they are, and seeking jobs and housing in their new locales, knowing there's nothing to return to.

I work for Child Protection, and I've seen emails getting sent through our agency computer system, looking for missing foster children.

There's not a lot I can tell you that you can't see on CNN. That's where most of our information is coming from too. We're not in contact with anyone in New Orleans. Few people seem able to make contact.

I have heard that the night was filled with gunfire last night. I work with a man whose son is a nurse in a hospital. Their first two floors are flooded, and their generator went under water.

My wife and I spent our anniversary in New Orleans just weekend before last. We commented on what a great city it is, and how we don't go there nearly often enough. It could be a long time before we say that again.

No word from the other SOGers in that part of the state?

Jeff

Mary Reilly · 08-31-2005, 10:14 PM

Jeff,
Glad you are ok and that the people staying with you are also safe!
What an awful tragedy this whole thing has been.
Mary

Patricia Joyce · 09-01-2005, 09:00 AM

Jeff,

I lived in Biloxi 30 years ago and have the fondest memories of a place which now, no longer exists. 20 years old and a newlywed, just starting out in life. We walked and walked those beaches in Biloxi as only two young lovers can do. Now, it is devastation. And I have been to New Orleans many times as it is one of my favorite cities in the States. I cannot believe that it is essentially destroyed. We will never know the New Orleans that you and I know. The architecture of the city was so beautiful and will never be recaptured. My son, a jazz musician is devastated as he has, many times wanted to visit the home of jazz...

It is a blessed thing you are doing to house your friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Linda Brandon · 09-01-2005, 10:50 AM

Jeff, I'm praying for all of you and, as Pat says, you are a wonderful man to host your friends.

Tom Edgerton · 09-02-2005, 02:51 PM

Jeff-

I love New Orleans too, and even if rebuilt, I doubt it will be the same.

Not much else we can do, but we're holding your part of the world in the Light.

Best--Tom