[StBernard] Isaac

[Westley Annis]

Dear Friends -

This was a challenging week for our state.  Hurricane Isaac brought heavy
rains and strong winds, but like we always do, Louisiana will recover and
build back better than before.

Everyday I'm reminded of the generosity, resilience, and spirit of our
people.  We've seen tough times before but we always bounce back.

During the storm and after, I've heard from folks every day who are doing
their part to respond to Isaac's challenges.  From the first responders who
put their lives on the line to rescue their fellow Louisianians to the
American Red Cross workers who are helping those in need of a roof over
their heads and a meal - everyone is doing their part.

There are folks like a caretaker I met at the Riverbend Nursing home in
Plaquemine Parish this week.  Seven years ago he lost his home during
Hurricane Katrina, yet throughout the storm and aftermath he stayed on duty
to care for the patients who needed him.  Seven years later, he's still
working at Riverbend, and when I met with him this week he told me that he'd
lost his home again due to Isaac.  Yet there he was, still taking care of
the folks who needed his help.

That's just one example and there are countless others.  The Sheriff's
deputies in St. John's Parish, assisted by the Louisiana National Guard and
the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents, worked all through the
night to rescue their neighbors threatened by rapidly rising waters.  Some
of these deputies' own homes were taking on water, yet they remained on the
job and rescued more than 3,500 people from a dangerous situation.

I wish I could share with you all the stories I've heard this week, there
are so many, but you all know these stories because they are the stories of
your friends, your families, and our communities.  

In the face of adversity, I'm always amazed at the depth of compassion and
strength of resolve in our communities.  I know we'll get through this
storm.  We will rebuild and we will rebuild better and stronger than before.
<http://cl.publicaster.com/ClickThru.aspx?pubids=393%7c9490%7c9390%7c791501&
digest=MNTtDVEOlyuGntgsb7%2bXAQ&sysid=1> 
Sincerely, 

Governor Bobby Jindal