Yesterday I returned from the IRA Annual Conference in New Orleans. It was a wonderful event full of engaging speakers and authors. I attended many great sessions that I could talk about here, but I’d rather share some thoughts on the city itself, New Orleans, and its resilient residents.
It has been almost nine years since Hurricane Katrina hit the city, and since this was my first visit to New Orleans, I have no before and after comparison. But I found myself wondering about the on-going construction, the pot-holed streets, and the easily-flooded sidewalks - wondering if these were still the after-effects of the incredible disaster. New Orleans is a great city full of southern charm, history, music, and great restaurants, and I wish I could have seen it in its heyday.
All of the local people I came in contact with were friendly and helpful. Although New Orleans suffered greatly from Katrina, I can’t help but think that the courage of the residents in facing insurmountable odds, along with a fierce determination, have been a driving force in the rebuilding efforts. The people are proud of their city, and have worked hard to bring it back. I saw it in the smiles and good wishes from the hotel staff and in the conversation with cab drivers. One young cabbie was a college student studying political science with goals to continue his studies and obtain a master’s degree. I was happy to read that since Katrina, the city’s program of establishing public charter schools has helped students improve in levels of achievement and independence.
I know there is still much to be done, but I believe the city will continue to grow. In the meantime, thank you New Orleans for providing a wonderful destination for a great conference.
It has been almost nine years since Hurricane Katrina hit the city, and since this was my first visit to New Orleans, I have no before and after comparison. But I found myself wondering about the on-going construction, the pot-holed streets, and the easily-flooded sidewalks - wondering if these were still the after-effects of the incredible disaster. New Orleans is a great city full of southern charm, history, music, and great restaurants, and I wish I could have seen it in its heyday.
All of the local people I came in contact with were friendly and helpful. Although New Orleans suffered greatly from Katrina, I can’t help but think that the courage of the residents in facing insurmountable odds, along with a fierce determination, have been a driving force in the rebuilding efforts. The people are proud of their city, and have worked hard to bring it back. I saw it in the smiles and good wishes from the hotel staff and in the conversation with cab drivers. One young cabbie was a college student studying political science with goals to continue his studies and obtain a master’s degree. I was happy to read that since Katrina, the city’s program of establishing public charter schools has helped students improve in levels of achievement and independence.
I know there is still much to be done, but I believe the city will continue to grow. In the meantime, thank you New Orleans for providing a wonderful destination for a great conference.
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