[Elaine Santangelo]

I still find it hard to fathom how little is actually reported of progress in the whole gulf region. Yes, there are pockets of stories now and then. But Katrina's wrath had more lasting effects economically than even 9/11.

The exemption for the Delta Queen might not have been an issue if not for the union lobbying which might not have happened if not for Majestic America Line which might not have become the boats' owners IF not for Katrina.

I've been off the board because of family matters- and I do thank people who assisted with my card shower for my dad's birthday in June. Alzheimers has been winning and he is now in a nursing home. But the irony for me has always been that I was watching Katrina on the news the day that I brought both my folks to the VA hospital and begged for help. I had spent the previous night trying to sleep in an upright kitchen chair. I often told people that when Katrina hit New Orleans, she hit my household in a different way and things have never been the same since then.

But as Mary put it- New Orleans is in America! This is our problem and I don't even see political candidates making that a stomping ground. Guess it isn't the right photo opportunity for them or the lack of electricity might be a problem- ya think?