I celebrated the 4th Anniversary of "the storm" (as we call it in New Orleans) in the lower 9th ward early this morning. There was a gathering on the Claiborne Avenue neutral ground (called medians in other cities).  Some people spoke and said some prayers for the 1600 that perished.  Then, we solemnly second lined up the Claiborne bridge which was the only means of escape for many out of the flooded neighborhood.  It was very hot and all I could think about was how hot it must have been 4 years ago.  We got to the top of the bridge and taps was played. Then, Major Kelly of the NOPD threw the memorial wreath into the Industrial Canal. You can see in one of my pictures the masses of photogs around her trying to get their photo op on the bridge.  After the wreath was thrown into the canal, we second lined back down the bridge to happier music.  (During second line funeral processions,  once the body has been laid to rest in the cemetery, happier music is played and dancing begins. It is a very old tradition here.  During funerals this is called, "cutting the body loose".  That is when people dance happily b/c the soul has gone to happier place.)  When we got down to the foot of the bridge the party began. It was mostly on Tennessee Street where the Make It Right homes are being built and have been built.  When I left there about an hour ago, there was a full a street party happening! Mardi Gras Indians were out. DJ's were on porches and there was also another second line parade!  Oh, and don't let me forget the N'Awlins seafood being boiled for lunch! That smelled sooo good!

The picture of Al and I is very special. It is the one taken in front of the yellow house. He lives in one of the Make It Right Homes which is on his property that was destroyed during Katrina.  He is learning how to install solar panels right now. How cool is that? New Orleans is going green!  He is a wonderful guy who was evacuated from New Orleans for over 2 years. I am so glad he got to come back home.

Also, there is a picture of Mr. Herbert Kettridge sitting on a bench. Some of you may recognize Mr. Kettridge from Anderson Cooper's hurricane coverage and also Frontline on PBS.  He is 86 years young and nearly built his whole house back by himself.  He said so many volunteers have to help him do the things that he can't do at 86 years of age. And, he is so grateful.  He built his home in the lower 9th ward in 1952.  He grew up in the 7th ward and is a master plasterer.  A cherished trade in our old city.  He showed me his Plaster Union trade card showing he's been in the Union for over 50 years!  Being a descendant of 3 generations of carpenters, I have a real respect for Mr. Kettridge's line of work. He said he paid for his home outright in 1952 with his own money. Never asked for a loan. He said he worked days and nights to make the money to build it in 1952.  What an amazing man. I could have listened to him tell stories about New Orleans for hours on end. I am going to go visit him again very soon.

Please continue to keep New Orleans in your prayers...still a long way to go.  If you would like read my annual Katrina anniversary letter it is here http://blog.hedesigns.com/4th-anniversary-of-hurricane-katrina/

Much Love to all who want to see New Orleans prosper.