Web Letters: New Orleans's Not-So-Super Bowl

When the NFL awarded the 2013 Super Bowl to New Orleans, that was music to our ears. We gladly welcome the multimillion-dollar economic boost and national exposure it will bring. What city wouldn't?

Of course, there remain significant issues that need to be addressed in post-Katrina New Orleans, no one would deny that, but few would also deny the progress that has been made. The rebounding of our tourism industry is a major plus, and our state's investment is money well spent. Tourism generates $5 billion in direct visitor spending and $200-$225 million in direct tax revenues for New Orleans. Our film industry is back--twenty-one movies were shot in New Orleans last year with a $230 million impact. Our rebuilding effort has insulated our economy from the national economic downturn. As a result, enterprising young professionals are moving to New Orleans. In fact, Businessweek named New Orleans one of the best cities for riding out the recession.

Our city changed forever on August 29, 2005, when Katrina decimated the region. There's more work to be done, but those shortcomings will never detract from the successes that we have enjoyed because of the hard work and dedication of so many. The New Orleans Fleur de Lis Ambassadors are committed to communicating the progress our city is making. We are moving forward every day.

Arnie Fielkow & Scott Cowen
Fleur de Lis Ambassadors

New Orleans, LA

For cryin' out loud! Leave our Saints alone. Sure, New Orleans has plenty of rebuilding priorities. But I and hundreds of thousands like me would have gone completely insane (especially that first year post-Katrina) without the welcomed distraction of those games. After a demoralizing week of gutting, painting, hauling, wrangling with insurance companies and contractors, etc., those Sundays in the Dome were magical. The feeling of solidarity and relief as we sat together and cheered our hearts out for the Black and Gold is something I will cherish forever as I struggle to put my life back together. I know I'm not alone.

Geaux Saints!

eddie ecker

New Orleans, LA