I want to encourage you to visit New Orleans.

As an Illoisian, I’m interested in following your progress. I haven’t lived in Illinois for years, but I have happy memories of it, including visits to U. of I. to visit a friend, Jackie, who I think probably graduated in 1985.

I lived and travelled through and to and from New Orleans during my Memphis years. It came to mean a lot to me. I would like to hear that you did do what you said you were going to do, or if not, that you go as soon as you possibly can, whether as a tourist, spending your dollars there and improving the economy in that little way, or by joining one of the many non-profits helping to rebuild N.O. and its infrastructure.

This might include helping out as a volunteer at one of the hospitals, orphanages, community centres. I am sure you will find this work very rewarding.

If I can help answer any questions about N.O. let me know. It’s been a while, but I’ll be willing to research it to support your going.