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  International Edition
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
No right for us to feel fatigued
Two years after Katrina, many in the Gulf Coast are struggling to recover.
I'm not big on anniversaries, especially ones recognized by television. They always seem artificial to me. Maybe I'm just cynical about television, but whenever I hear a newscast making a big deal about the anniversary of an event, I always assume it must be a slow news cycle.

So why then, on the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, am I heading toward the Gulf Coast? I guess it's because today more people around the country may be willing to take a few moments to remember what happened and what continues to happen in New Orleans and Mississippi.

I've lost count how many times I've been to New Orleans since Katrina. I'm told we've done about 20 shows there after spending a month in the area immediately following the storm. I'm proud that CNN has remained commited to telling this story. A lot of other news organizations seem to have moved on. "Katrina fatigue" -- that's what some people call it.

As anyone in New Orleans or the Mississippi Gulf coast will tell you, the only people who have a right to "Katrina fatigue" are the people still waiting for their insurance company to reimburse them or those waiting for the long-promised Road Home money or those still trying to find help rebuilding their home or their business.

I know today a lot of reporters will descend on New Orleans, many for the first time since the last anniversary. I'm glad they will be there. This city, this region needs all the coverage it can get.

But let's not forget that tomorrow the cameras will leave, the anchors will fly home (myself included), but the people and their problems will remain. It's not enough to only think of them on this yearly anniversary. What they are going through is happening everyday, every week, month after month. Let's keep that in mind, let's keep them in mind, not just today, but everyday until their lives, their homes are restored.

Tonight we will be live in New Orleans, with many of the volunteers who have made a great difference in this city. We'll continue showing you what has worked, and what hasn't in the last two years. I hope you'll join us.

-- By Anderson Cooper
Posted By CNN: 2:44 PM ET
  67 Comments
Where is the mention of the lack of action on the part of our "wonderful" goverment?
Posted By Anonymous : 3:00 PM ET
Hey Anderson,

I appreciate you bring us this story, I be looking forward to 360 tonight It should be good. You right alot of people they will pay attention to New Orleans for today and tomorrow go on their way as if nothing hasn't happen.

Something that I don't understand is how Ray Nagin got voted back in for mayor, I feel sorry for the people that's in New Orleans trying to rebuild their lives.
Posted By bluediamond (Jennifer) : 3:02 PM ET
AC/360 staff,

All I can say is if people are tired of hearing about Katrina, they have the option to turn to another channel or turn the television off. The people of the Gulf Coast have a right to be heard, and I'm glad that CNN and 360 have been consistent in telling their stories throughout the past two years. It always seems a bit callous to me when reporters do a story just because it's the anniversary of a horrible event. People are affected every day of the year between the anniversary dates. I'm glad that you guys have realized that and have remained committed to shedding light on what's happening with the Katrina survivors and the rebuilding efforts.
Posted By Amanda, NC : 3:08 PM ET
Perhaps the only appropriate "gift" for this anniversary is for all of us to call our Congress Reps and Senators and ask them to do more to help folks still suffering (and I hope that you at 360 can ask your guests tonight for the SPECIFICS for which we should advocate). What still needs to get done in the different coummunities and what can we do nationally to apply pressure? To contact your representatives: www.congress.org.

We can also e-mail/write newspapers and local/national TV stations and thank them for their coverage of the anniversary, but ask that they do more year-round on Katrina and also related emergency preparedness (or lack thereof) issues. We need to both help those affected and ensure that a PREDICTABLE storm is never allowed to take so many lives due to inaction.

And to personally take action, we can still donate time and money, as both are still needed.

As a Red Cross volunteer (since Katrina), I can't say enough about the importance for us all to prepare as individuals. For more info: www.redcross.org and www.ready.gov.

I volunteered at a shelter after the storm, and I often think about the people I met and wonder how they are doing.

Thank you, Mr. Cooper, and EVERYONE who works both in front of and behind the cameras at CNN for all you have done and continue to do.

I am still so angry about this, so I can't even imagine how angry many of those people directly affected by it must be. All I can say is Bush (and Nagin and Chertoff and Mike Brown) is gonna have a big surprise for him when he dies (of natural causes, mind you) and realizes that God isn't quite as enamored of him as he thinks God should be. I hope that Bush (and the others) is forced to spend eternity surrounded by images of those who his inaction killed (not to mention those in Iraq). We may not be able to impeach him-- although I wish we would at least try-- so all I can say (and I am not usually so defeatist, but I am also not treasonous) is to leave it up to God.

In prayer for those still suffering,
Norah
Posted By Norah, West Chester, PA : 3:13 PM ET
It's good to know that even reporters are cynical about the news business.

The events surrounding Katrina were a national disgrace and should never be dismissed or forgotten. It is imperative that people remember what took place there and that it's never allowed to happen again.
Posted By Fay, Vacaville, CA : 3:16 PM ET
Hey Anderson,

Thank you for continuing your coverage and more importantly for stating on a local radio show that Katrina was a man made disaster. If only we could get the rest of the country to realize this about Katrina, your mission will be accomplished. You are right about how our area recovers from this "calamity: will be a litmus test for our country. Hopefully, others will realize this. You mentioned the lack of a memorial, there is one in the lower 9th ward. It is just before the MLK school where the president appeared today on Claiborne Avenue.
It is simple with a few chairs and more importantly the blue pillars show the height that the waters reached in 9th ward. Stand next to the tallest pillar and you will feel dwarfed.

Ruth Brewington, Metairie, LA
Posted By Anonymous : 3:19 PM ET
Hi Anderson,
Most of us know that a house is just a building, but a HOME is where our hearts and souls are.
Two years on, that would be the one wish I'd hope for the people of Louisiana and Mississippi...To be able to rebuild and come "Home."
Take Care. Good reporting as always.
Posted By Lorie Ann, Buellton, Calif. : 3:20 PM ET
Mr. cooper:

You're right...anyone who thinks they're tired of hearing about New Orleans and the Gulf Coast should really count their blessings. Maybe once your home is destroyed along with your life and your government sits on its collective ass while you wait on your rooftop watching the dead bodies floating around you, well maybe then you'd be entitled to an opinion. But until that happens, please keep your "fatigue" to yourself.
And let me end by thanking you, Anderson, for all that you've done over the last two years. Your heart seems to stay in NOLA and I respect you immensely for your dedication and influence.
Posted By Debbie, Denham Springs, LA : 3:23 PM ET
Hi Anderson, Welcome back. The anniversary coverage of Katrina seems to have left something out. It is obvious that a great deal of the delay in recovering is due to insurance companies (especially in Mississippi) and their failure to pay out claims for whatever reason. IMO it would be a good idea to investigate these companies and determine how they screwed these people. Perhaps insurance reform is needed and the companies need to be held accountable for, either, their failure to disclose coverage at purchase of these policies, or, to help people understand what they were paying for. Insurance companies and their highly paid lawyers and financial advisers have financially destroyed many of these people and I hope you and CNN would
shine the light on this aspect of the Katrina disaster.
See ya tonight.
Posted By Judy Stage/Brooklyn MI : 3:33 PM ET
I too considered it must be a slow news week, and hence, all the Katrina hoopla.

But I cannot tell you how grateful that I am that it is happening. All across the board, I know people who lost their homes, lost their families, lost their spirits.

I was living in a foreign country when Katrina happened. I also happen to be African-American. In the country where I was living, the media was inundated with images of black people supposedly "stealing" food and waving for help from roof tops. Every place I went, people would say to me "you live in the richest country on earth, how could your government treat 'your people' that way?" Needless to say, I was embarrassed and ashamed, not just for myself, but for our country.

We cannot forget the people who lost their lives in that storm. We cannot forget how our government failed our citizens. And, we cannot allow a tragedy of this nature to occur ever again.

Thanks for keeping Katrina at the forefront of our thinking. It is appreciated.
Posted By Kelley from Chicago : 3:33 PM ET
Hi Anderson,

You're absolutely right! The people who suffered from Katrina should never be fogotten. You and the CNN crew are doing a wonderful job keeping us informed.
Posted By Lori/ Boston,MA : 3:35 PM ET
HI Anderson,
I am looking forward to your broadcast this evening from NOLA,and you are right,the only people who should have 'Katrina Fatigue' are the ones who have had to live through this nightmare for the past 2 years,while watching local and state politicians dilly dally around.I will never understand how Nagin was ever re-elected there!
You made a committment to never let the people of NOLA and the Gulf Coast be forgotten,and I commend you for that dedication,when it seems so many have moved on.Please continue to ''Keep them Honest'' down there.
I just saw you on OPRAH-fantastic reporting,and thanks for the update on MR.Gettridge and his "old lady''.
Take care,Anderson.
Posted By anne carter : 3:48 PM ET
I am so glad to see that CNN has continued to go back to the Gulf Coast and to remind people that when the cameras leave the horrors will remain. It seems to me that Americans only have the ability to focus for so long and simply ignore the problems that they cannot see. There are too many residents of New Orleans and in towns across the Gulf Coast who deserve to be heard. There are people who have dedicated themselves to rebuilding and their stories need to be told. I will definitely be watching tonight and I am looking forward to returning to the Gulf Coast over Spring Break.
Posted By Kimberly Miller, Hiram, OH : 3:48 PM ET
Dear Anderson,

No matter how many reporters "descend" on New Orleans today, the account of Katrina and its aftermath belongs to you.

I have watched the numerous times you have covered the destruction and the continuing problems that have plagued this great city and the rest of the Gulf Coast and there is a difference between your coverage and that of the other news organizations. You didn’t just bring us the reports of the destruction; you forced us to realize that the victims of this disaster were real people.

You introduced us to Herbert Getridge, Dr. Henderson, Pauline Conaway, and Miss Connie and Abu, among others. I still often wonder how they are doing. I hope that you will be able to bring us updates on them in the future.

I can appreciate the personal connection you have with the Gulf Coast. I will never forget the way you ran your hand along the edge of the table you sat at with you father at Mary Mahoney’s so long ago. It was as if you were trying to recapture a precious moment from your past.

The difference between you and the other journalists that will be reporting from the Gulf Coast today is that when you leave, you will take this city and its people with you and never abandon them.

I look forward to your report tonight.

Jo Ann
Posted By Jo Ann Matese, North Royalton, Ohio : 3:51 PM ET
Hi Anderson,

I do have NOLA fatigue. Not regarding the sad state of affairs for the poor people in the Gulf region, particulary in NO, but of the excuses and finger pointing.

The locals point their fingers at the state and the state points their fingers at the feds and the feds say things are much better. For gosh sakes, a ton of money has been poured into the area and what do we have to show for it? Some moldy FEMA trailers no one can live in? Ruined houses with holes in the roof? Brian Williams found the same video in the destroyed community center in Waveland that he found two years ago.

I want to find out about the waste and get someone to fess up and say we blew it but this is what we are going to do to make it better. And make it work this time. The people of the Gulf region deserve to be a priority until we get it right. Maybe if the elected officials had to spend a night in a FEMA trailer we would see some action. And good luck dealing with insurance companies.
Posted By Charlotte D, Stockton CA : 3:52 PM ET
Dear Anderson,
I am glad that you are still doing stories on Katrina... mu aunt in Australia said that what happen in the Gulf area should not have happen like this....We all prayed and wish all affected have their lives and homes restored before the next Katrina's anniversary. Keep up the good work.
Posted By Judy, Acworth, GA : 3:53 PM ET
My concern is for the thousands who cannot return to the Gulf Coast or New Orleans. They are the forgotten victims. Many of them rented, they do not qualify for benefits to establish new homes. We have been side by side with one such family. For 2 years we have fought with FEMA and beat the bushes for options or solutions. Because of their particular situation, they do not qualify for any assistance in long-term housing. Because of this, I have written a book telling their story. Our hope is that the book will shed light on the plight of so many and help provide some housing funds for them as the book sells.
You can read more about it at www.eagleswingspublications.com
thank you!
Posted By Stephanie : 3:56 PM ET
As I heard one politician say today its only been two years and for a City as large as New Orleans to recover it will take many more years. It took 200 for it to become the City it was before Katrina. And it will take many more for it to return, perhaps not to its past glory, but New Orleans will be back.

You can take away the buildings and the material possessions, but you cannot take away the heart and soul of a city as long as someone believes in it. And I do believe in her.

PS Don't forget folks that MS still needs help.
Posted By Marcia, Warren MI : 3:58 PM ET
I do not want to belittle anyone who lost their lives to Katrina, but I must ask myself, they- the victims of Katrina- paid the ultimate sacrifice for what? For it to happen again? People in the Gulf area should GET OUR OF NEW ORLEANS, hell make a new New Orleans... on higher ground. It would cost more, but at least we won't be throwing away our federal tax dollars. There are no new protective measures since Katrina. How can everyone morn the dead, but 'rebuild' on old ground? I guess us humans are too stubborn- nature always wins in the end. The question is how many times will she have to teach us the same lesson?
Posted By Anonymous : 4:02 PM ET
As I heard one politician say today its only been 2 years and though it will take many more for New Orleans to return it will be done. The people of New Orleans may have lost buildings and material possessions, but as long as there is still spirit and heart the city will survive.

And as we remember the city of New Orleans also remember those who lost everything in MS and other Gulf States that Katrina hit.
Posted By Marcia, Warren MI : 4:04 PM ET
Anderson,
There are not enough words to thank you and CNN for the outstanding coverage you continue to give this story. As one who lives here in New Orleans, it is comforting to know that you have not forgotten us. The fact that you continue to shine a light on the plight of so many suffering here on the Gulf Coast, gives hope to those desperate souls who feel abandoned by our government. Your efforts are eternally appreciated.
Thank you, Cara
Posted By Anonymous : 4:07 PM ET
Bush wants $50 Billion to help IRAQ?? Why doesn't he put $50 Billion to help revitalize New Orleans...
Posted By Anonymous : 4:08 PM ET
I applaud CNN for covering and re-covering some of the really tough news stories. The persistence with which they keep issues like this one in the faces of the world is admirable.

Keep pressing on. I'm having my 17 year-old daughter watch this show with me tonight, if for nothing else but a life's lesson on how to be grateful for what we have each day.

I'm a huge fan Anderson. I love your show, and am always disappointed when somebody else steps in for the evening, but never disappointed in the material.
Posted By Julie : 4:14 PM ET
i would like to say thank you for remembering us on the ms gulfcoast i have a question. why is it that no one talks about rita? i live in biloxi but the majority of my family lives in la.. my parents for example lost their home and are still in a fema trailer. i have an aunt and uncle who lived in grande cheiner, which is south of cameron, they cant even find pieces of their home. what about those people? my uncle suffers from cancer and not only lost his home but his job as well, but nobody seems to care about them. he served in vietnam and has worked hard to provide for his family but... why isn't anyone rushing over there to help. new orleans was not the only city devistated by the 2005 hurricane season.
Posted By michelle : 4:15 PM ET
Hallelujah - and pass the hot sauce!
Posted By jesse, biloxi ,ms. : 4:17 PM ET
I hope we'll get to see Mr. Gettridge on the show tonight. It would make my heart happy to see him and his 'old lady' sitting in their own living room enjoying a fine summer evening. I know that wouldn't make things back the way they used to be, but seeing one man's dream come to fruition would still feel pretty good.
Posted By Claire Colvin, White Rock BC : 4:17 PM ET
We'll never give up; it's a southern thing...
Posted By corey, lakeview- in Looosiana : 4:20 PM ET
I’m not big on anniversaries either but remembering what happened two years ago in the Gulf Coast is too important to ignore. The people who died and are still suffering deserve our compassion. The failures of government then and now demand our outcry. The roots of many of the problems that resulted in the disaster in NOLA have not been solved. We must clamor as forcefully as we can. Politicians take note - This can never happen again. We owe it to all the victims and the many volunteers who have given so much of themselves to make things a little better day by day.

Thank you for being there tonight and for all the attention you have abundantly brought to this situation.
Posted By Jo Ann, Honolulu, HI : 4:24 PM ET
Did the Presiddent stay in a FEMA trailer when he was down there?
Posted By pat, westchester, ny : 4:25 PM ET
I am sick of the Hurricane Katrina media coverage. Its everywhere, just leave it be people. The rebuilding will take awhile. If you don't believe me go ask someone from Homestead, Florida how long it took for them to rebuild after Hurricane Andrew. (and there was half the coverage about it then there is now)
The longer the citizens of New Orleans cry about it (or sit around and wait for help) instead of actually contributing the longer it will take. Or maybe instead of waiting and waiting they can just take their insurance claims and move to another area/state. One preferably not below sea level or in tornado/hurricane alleys.
Posted By Peter : 4:26 PM ET
Thanks for keeping the spotlight on New Orleans. The South shall rise again !
Posted By Robin, Sugarland, TX : 4:27 PM ET
Hi Anderson,
Thanks to you and your crew for following through on this story. I am still stunned by the ineptitude and lack of leadership in the rebuilding effort. From the images, there still seems to be quite a bit of debris around. At the very least, all that should have been removed long ago. Maybe I'm dense, but could you please explain to me again tonight why all the money designated for this disaster isn't yet distributed? Also, what's the overall plan and strategy that has been approved, if there is one?

Although I was only in New Orleans once for a couple of days a few years back, I immediately sensed that it was a truly unique city with an authentic culture that can't be replicated anywhere else. I hope that quality is not plasticized or lost forever in the rebuilding.

I am also a big Tennessee Williams fan whose work was often set in New Orleans. One of my favorite short stories 'The Angel in the Alcove' describes his reoccurring pull to the 'lunar atmosphere' of the city. It is a humorous and moving snapshot of his life on Bourbon St. during the 40s. Some light reading for your flight home.
Elaine
Posted By Elaine Ciufo, Ambler, PA : 4:28 PM ET
Thanks for keeping Katrina and the troubles
of the Gulf coast on the news. I live in an
area we call Hampton Roads in Virginia
and when we hear hurricane it catches
our attention.Thank God that we have
newver experienced anything like
Katrina.My heart goes out to the people
of NOLA and the Gulf coast.
Posted By Anonymous : 4:34 PM ET
Please keep New Orleans in your hearts and on your minds y'all.
Posted By casey, kenner, la. : 4:35 PM ET
Hi AC: I saw early this morning that Mr. Bush was headed to NOLA. Maybe he will do more than smooze and shake hands with politicians this visit. He still has a chance to make a difference there. I noticed that many candidates are there as well. I hope this anniversary isn't just a chance for all of these politicians to pat themselves on the back. I am skeptical as well. Looking forward to the show. Hope your travels are safe.
Posted By Kathy Chicago,Il : 4:38 PM ET
Looking forward to the show again tonight. I'm glad this story is not getting buried due to other more recent events. I was also glad to see other media down there covering it so the area can get more exposure.... The more exposure of what is not getting done, the better. It is so sad to see things in many areas basically in the same shape they were 2 years ago.

What a shame... Keep the spotlight on focus on this.
Posted By Mary H. St. Louis, MO : 4:39 PM ET
It's easy to say "Im sick of Katrina!"

And it's hard to put yourself in someone else's shoes. But maybe if we all pull together, long-term recovery and restoration in Louisiana and the rest of the Gulf Coast can be a real example of how great America is.
Posted By Eric Bane, Dallas, Tx. : 4:43 PM ET
Anderson,
Thanks for keeping on keeping on holding on to NOLA by a thread. PLEASE don't let go!
Hang on until New Orleans is no longer singing the katrina Blues~
Oh, yeah
Posted By Betty Ann, Nacogdoches,TX : 4:44 PM ET
I cant believe that it has been 2 years already, and so little has been done. I visited New Orleans back in January and was suprised to see the city in need of so much help. These types of tragedies dont always heal with the passage of time. The goverment and leadership of this country have failed the people of the gulf coast, now it is up to the rest of us to aknowledge their burdens, pains, & to take progessive actions to change the situation.
Posted By Afroz; Northern California : 4:46 PM ET
Hey AC: Glad to see that you've kept your promess in not forgetting what happened there. But eventhough the situation and life conditions and still extremely poor, you can see that some people are rebuilding (with what money I don't know...) and still believe in living a decent life there again. I salute their courage and strenght. Any traces of all that money given by the government the charities?? And what about those rotten trailors? What is Mayor Nagin still doign there? What a shame! Hope you have a chance to meet with Mr. Gettridge again and Dr. Henderson. They are truly inspiring. Thanks for the hard word you've put in!
Josee (Montreal, Canada)
Posted By Josee (Montreal, Quebec) : 4:49 PM ET
I appreciate Anderson taking a moment to revisit the tragedy that resulted from Hurricane Katrina. However, I think it is morally irresponsible for him to blame "rappers" and "rap music" for the do not snitch policies adopted by much of those that remain and the criminal element in New Orleans. "Not snitching" has historically been the result of those that have struggled to maintain their place in society and the negative relationships that have been perpetuated by government agencies. The thought process is " Do I snitch or have my son killed on the way to the grocery store?" "Do I snitch and risk the remnants of my home being set on fire?" Let us look at the critical point here - the people, once again, have been let down by their government and willing to do what they have to for their own safety. Treat them as humans and maybe the police and the government will get the result that they desire. Do not use rap music as the easy target.
Posted By Mala : 4:53 PM ET
Even if you're not big on milestones, making a day special by enjoying yourself instead of thinking sober thoughts, IS an important way to put things in perspective. Please tell New Orleans residents we're rooting for them.
Posted By judy m. bloomfield hills mi : 5:01 PM ET
I'll never be tired of hearing about the worst natural disaster ever to strike the U.S. I live in earthquake country and wonder what the government response will be when the "big one" finally hits here. You are doing a great service in keeping Katrina in the public eye and I thank you for that.
Posted By Barbara, Culver City, CA : 5:02 PM ET
The question I was wondering about mayor Ray Nagin. I think I know the answer! Your words " Hope is not a plan" That's is the mayor's problem. HE DID NOT HAVE A PLAN. And he still doesn't!

Like you said in the future their will be disasters of different kinds where is weather related or terrorist attacks. I hope before these things comes about someone has a plan.

May God help us all if they don't
Posted By bluediamond (Jennifer) : 5:05 PM ET
I can understand why some people might have "Katrina fatigue". As the saying goes, "you never know what you have until you lose it." Those who have "Katrina fatigue" may not have lost anything or much at all in their lives. That's why it's called "empathy". Feeling someone else's pain as if it were your very own. Not always easy but definitely feasible, if you care enough.

It's amazing to me how a nation considered rich and highly-developed has not fulfilled the needs of its own citizens two years later. There is definitely something seriously wrong.

Thank you for spending so much time in New Orleans and keeping true to your promise. See you tonight, Anderson.
Posted By Mariela, New York, NY : 5:05 PM ET
Chris, Las Vegas
It appalls me every time I hear of the wows with New Orleans. It seems that all the efforts of Journalist focus on the city where their Mayor ran from this catastrophic incident. What happened to Mississippi? We don’t know because the focuses on reports comes from New Orleans even though the eye of the storm hit the Magnolia State. Mississippians should be proud of their state and local leadership as they have stood by their people. The idea of discrimination that the Media keeps on stressing in its reporting is crap. New Orleanais, need to take the bull by the horns and take control of their own city. Isn’t that what citizenship and community involvement is all about.
Posted By Anonymous : 5:27 PM ET
I am so excited to watch your show tonight and find out about new developments in New Orleans. Mr. Cooper, you have no idea how many lives you change by covering a story like Katrina.

Like most teenagers, two years ago I thought that my life should end because everybody else is living a better life. Then, Katrina happened and I saw your show and realized how good I have it living in America's finest city. I have always had a house to serve as a haven and I have never have had to struggle to become the fittest in order to survive.

With your continued coverage I am able to compare the changes that occured in my life these past years with the little developments that residents of NOLA are coping with. Since Katrina, I have graduated highschool, moved into a different house, and owned three different cars. The people of New Orleans seem to have been stuck in the flood and continue to be. Looking at the changes that happened to myself, I fully understand why the people of New Orleans have the right to be angry at the people who were supposed to take care of them. I also feel that now, we cannot just become bystanders and that we should all stand up and help those who are in need.

Today, I celebrate my birthday and the lives of those who survived hurricane Katrina. I hope that the next year will become better for all of us.

Thanks again Mr. Anderson Cooper.


Camille,
San Diego, CA
Posted By Anonymous : 5:30 PM ET
Mr. Anderson,

While it is "OK" to do footage about Hurricane Katrina, the events, and relief efforts, I'm still disgusted with having to hear these three words in the same sentence everyday; "NEW ORLEANS KATRINA".

Fact - the eye did not hit New Orleans; it hit Slidell, LA and Bay St. Louis, MS. Fact - New Orleans IS under sea level. Fact - the eastern side of the hurricane is said to be worse; it hit the Mississippi Gulf Coast, NOT New Orleans. Fact - LOUISIANA WILL NOT STOP WHINING. Fact - Bush went ONLY to New Orleans and Bay St. Louis today just to look good.

Its a very aggrivating thing to hear about it every day; in fact, THE ENTIRE WORLD now believes the hurricane hit only New Orleans; so many people have no clue of where all the hurricane hit because you, the media, always go to the places with the most whining. The one piece I've seen since Katrina that made national lines that was about Mississippi was the Harrison County Prison scandal, AND YOU GOT THE CITY WRONG (the prison is well located in the Gulfport zone, not Biloxi).

Keep going to New Orleans for all I care; us Mississippians may be stereotyped or percieved by the nation as rednecks and rebels, but I know one thing were not; WHINERS. We've never complained, and that is because we have PRIDE & DIGNITY that Louisiana, nor any other state in the nation, can ever take away. You want to talk about persistence and strength, take a look 60 miles east of the Big Easy.
Posted By James (Gulfport, MS) : 5:34 PM ET
The continuing situation post Katrina serves as a reminder of many things.
Our president completly ignored these people for five whole days.No matter how many photo Ops since then,every single person in this country knows that.We also know about the bald faced lies about "this scenario didn't exist" and there is a video tape of his conference call with the leading hurricane experts.He also claimed he didn't know the scope of the disaster.There were over 90,000 square miles of damage,which is roughly the size of Great Britan, and literally millions of the newly homeless,but Bush didn't know?Bush is not alone,

There have been hundreds of politicians that toured around,made speeches as well as promises which have never been kept,just so they looked good on television and tried to leverage this into more political chips to further their own careers.

There were also relief organizations that raised millions and millions of dollars with hardly a single cent going to the people it was donated for.

Most important of all is we must never forget the people.The people trapped in their attics while they watched the water slowly rise inch by inch until they drowned.The people in wheelchairs that couldn't even get to their attics or roofs.The fact that there are still families that are completly torn apart.Children without parents.Parents without their children.People still living in FEMA trailers with cancer causing agents.The government still turning their back on helping these people.Oh they still go there for photo Ops and to make speeches and then their on their way out before they get cornered by the homeless and the poor wanting to know when they are really get some help.

DON'T FORGET!DON'T FORGET!DON'T FORGET!
Posted By Jeffrey Kress Old Bridge,NJ : 5:42 PM ET
I am so glad you are continuing coverage of Hurrican Katrina. Until the levees are really fixed, and until everyone is back in their "home" then the story isn't over. I appreciate your coverage so much more as it is heartfelt and completely honest.
Why, however, are we spending Fifty Billion, yes with a B, on Iraq when we haven't spent that much on our own citizens. Do the folks of Iraq need it more? I think not. . . maybe we should divide the money up and spend it where it counts. On those in our own Country that need help. Just a thought. . . .
Posted By Kimberly Ann Arbor, MI : 5:49 PM ET
Anderson, I have mixed feelings about the marking of the second anniversary of Katrina. I am so relieved that it has offered an opportunity for renewing the awareness of the American public about the real needs of the people of NO, and that it may prompt some real action on the parts of government. I can't believe that the American people would really abandon NO when they are aware of the needs there, but they are dependent on govenment agencies to do their part in being compassionate, breaking through red tape, and making sure monies are sent to the people for whom they were intended. However, I hope that the momentum generated lasts past this second anniversary, and that you can report much more progress on the next anniversary. There's not a day goes by that I don't think of the people of NO and what is happening there.

I can't say how much it's an inspiration to see your continued coverage of NO, and that CNN has continued to support coverage between anniveraries. The citizens of NO really need your continued advocacy, and those of other news agencies, along with their own efforts to have their stories heard. Looking forward to the program tonight, as well as Soledad O'Brien's report on the Children of the Storm.
Posted By Vicky, Ottawa, ON : 5:51 PM ET
I am so glad you are continuing coverage of Hurrican Katrina. Until the levees are really fixed, and until everyone is back in their "home" then the story isn't over. I appreciate your coverage so much more as it is heartfelt and completely honest.
Why, however, are we spending Fifty Billion, yes with a B, on Iraq when we haven't spent that much on our own citizens. Do the folks of Iraq need it more? I think not. . . maybe we should divide the money up and spend it where it counts. On those in our own Country that need help. Just a thought. . . .
Posted By Kimberly Ann Arbor, MI : 5:52 PM ET
Anderson -- Please let the nation know we are not ALL sitting around waiting for handouts, nor are we ALL pointing fingers. We know that to overcome this level of destruction, however, takes many. And there are many within the city working, and succeeding, in bringing pockets of positive and hopeful progress: a 13 year old boy who started a volunteer program to mow City Park (the MOW RONS), Blaine Kern, Mr. Mardi Gras who has donated a lot of money to help first responders buy homes.

But take ANY city, shut down ALL industry for several months (and therefore business taxes), destroy 80% of the housing (and therefore the property tax base), destroy all major hospitals, destroy most police stations and fire stations, destroy all electrical power, all telephone lines, flood out all public transportation, and contaminate all water treatment plants. Now...wanna bet the recovery takes more than the citizens of that city? Wanna bet SOMEONE has to pay to have electricity restored, telephone lines restrung, water treatment restored? But remember -- you have no tax base. Oh, and when you try to rebuild, have every insurance company deny homeowners insurance but laugh all the way to the bank on the auto insurance premiums they get to collect on all the cars being bought to replace flooded vehicles.

I feel for the people of Ohio, Missouri, Minnesota, Illinois who are facing their flood woes. At least their water receeded fairly quickly. It took 19 days for the water to leave the house I live in now. Proudly live in.

I don't want a handout. Just a fair chance to help myself and my city.
Posted By Tara G : 5:52 PM ET
I am so glad you are continuing coverage of Hurrican Katrina. Until the levees are really fixed, and until everyone is back in their "home" then the story isn't over. I appreciate your coverage so much more as it is heartfelt and completely honest.
Why, however, are we spending Fifty Billion, yes with a B, on Iraq when we haven't spent that much on our own citizens. Do the folks of Iraq need it more? I think not. . . maybe we should divide the money up and spend it where it counts. On those in our own Country that need help. Just a thought. . . .
Posted By Kimberly Ann Arbor, MI : 5:54 PM ET
I think the difference with your prospective of the coverage is that this is not something you do once a year to "share the story". You made a promise to never forget and you and the 360 team have not and for that NOLA, the Gulf Coast, the US and the rest of the world thank you for your committment to keep this story in the forefront. It is the only way change will ever happen.

I will be watching your show tonight. Thank you again for not forgetting NOLA!!!
Posted By Megan O. Toronto, ON, Canada : 5:59 PM ET
Katrina bestowed fun waves for surfers in Miami, but two days later the aftermath gave us a different feeling. It's inspiring to see CNN cover Katrina.
Posted By Anonymous : 6:02 PM ET
Anderson,

Thanks for reporting on the story in New Orleans. I might have a different perspective. Six months ago I was in New Orleans on a business trip. My boss and I decided to grab a bite to eat. After dinner walking back to the hotel on Canal street I had a gun pulled on me. This is the story I would like for you to report. The area is infested with crime and will continue because the economy has yet to recover. The next day I spoke to a soldier that was in town and he says he likes his chances of survival more in Iraq than in New Orleans. I don't want to sound like a hater towards the New Orleans people, but the city is out of control with drugs and crime and it starts with the infrastructure.

Look at the current trends of the convention center. Most large companies will no longer attend shows in New Orleans because of the lack of security.

I hope the city will oneday get back to its status, but my experience in the area will keep me away.

T Jackson
Fort Worth, TX
Posted By Anonymous : 6:16 PM ET
Southern drawl and spirit heavy with loss....hurt, pain, and resolve...that idle-by...that "I'll get by" that "somehow, I'll get through"...they do...

Southerners are a tough bunch....not only genealogically ordained...but genetically ordained...tough..with true and open hearts.....

In memory of my Dad, Albert Anthony Maybeno, LSU Class of 1939..Psychiatry..Hometown:Algiers
NOLA
Thank you, Anderson, for your continued and careful coverage.
Posted By Christina Williams RN, Hemet, California : 3:37 AM ET
I'm sorry, but I'm tired of this story. These people choose to live below sea level. They choose to live in a corrupt state/city. They choose not to leave when the storm threatened. Life is all about choices and if you make bad ones you should pay.

I am sorry for the lives lost, but I will not tolerate the stupidity of those who wish to rebuild in the same spot and expect someone else to make them safe.
Posted By Bill, Decatur, IL : 7:49 AM ET
During the storm, I lost track of my dad and step mom for a week. With no phone service and no way to reach them, I found myself glued to AC 360, watching with both hope and dread that I might spot them. When I finally found them safe in Atlanta, I kept watching because I couldn't believe what had happened to our beloved city and the coastline we traveled. I still can't believe it. The storm caused so much damage, but it's the response failures that really broke our hearts. So little has changed since the storm. Their home was mostly untouched by Katrina, but two blocks down, the neighborhoods surrounding them continue to feel like a war zone. For people who contributed and participated in the community for 30+ years, the continued devastation has been too hard to take. My stepmother never recovered from the horrors of the storm and recently passed away; my father, unable to watch the city he held so dear drown in poverty, corruption, and crime, has moved away. The lack of interest or the lack of preparedness -- it's hard to say which governmental failure has caused the most harm, but the result has been the same for most Gulf Coast residents. The loss of life and home, the feelings of abandonment, and the frustration of knowing that so much of what went wrong could've been prevented. We continue to watch you report from New Orleans, because your efforts to keep those responsible for the recovery accountable to those who live there, helps all of us heal. We appreciate and rely on your commitment. Thanks for sticking with it.
Posted By Chelsey, Murrells Inlet, SC : 10:32 AM ET
Dear Anderson,
I really admire your program from NOLA. I'm Japanese and my hometown is Kobe, which is the city that had an enormous earthquake more than ten years ago. The city has been getting recovered, but some people there still have problems. I heard some said, "That's enough of Kobe Earthquake." But it's really important for everybody to remember what happened and what's going on there. As people in Kobe aren't forgotten, they can have power to recover and help other people who are suffering from the next disaster. They can make the most of their experiences. The same things will happen to people in NOLA. Remembrance is the most important. And your program always reminds everyone of it.

Thank you and take care.

Hiroko
Posted By Hiroko, Mie, Japan : 10:42 AM ET
Anderson,

I watched your show last night and was glad to see you surrounded by those people who are helping out. You should definitely keep reporting this story and others that tend to be forgetten once a better one comes along. What is the saying? To forget history is to be doomed to repeat it?
Posted By SP, Villa Hills, KY : 12:41 PM ET
Thank you for not forgetting the Mississippi coast, Anderson. Two years ago, when it seemed every other reporter in the world was descending on New Orleans, you made a choice to go to Bay St Louis and Waveland, Biloxi, Pass Christian and Gulfport. Seeing you standing on Highway 90 was the first news I saw of the area, and the first hope I had that my parents might have survived (they live back from the beach in Long Beach, MS.)As time has passed, you have continued to remind the rest of the world that New Orleans was not the only area affected by this tragedy. While my heart hurts for all that was lost (and all we still stand to loose) in New Orleans, we are grateful you have not forgotten about the rest of us.
Posted By ayn mclaurin, atlanta, GA : 12:56 PM ET
I know that I am in the minority here, but I am frankly sick of hearing about Katrina and New Orleans. I know that what happened was a tragedy, with many lives, homes and businesses lost, but how much longer are we going to have to hear about it?

Like the gentleman in the post above said, there were other places affected by Katrina, and they have been able to pick themselves up and get on with their lives without all the whining and press coverage.

Tara G above said that insurance companies laugh at the people who want coverage for homes in NO. Is it really that shocking? Insurance companies are in the risk management business (I should know, I work for one) and they can see that insuring homes in a ramshackle city that sits below sea level is a risk that will not pay off for them. They want to make money (horrible I know) and NO is not a good bet for them.

What I really want to know is why there isn't an anniversary show for the 2003 Iranian earthquake (20,000 killed) or the 2003 Kashmir, Pakistan earthquake (73,000 killed) or the 2004 Asian Tsunami (283,000 killed!)? Don't these places deserve at least as much, if not more, coverage than a city in the richest country in the world? Entire families, villages and towns were wiped out, yet all we hear is how badly the people of NO have been treated by the Government. Get off your collective a$$es and start making a difference for yourselves, and stop waiting on the rest of us to do it for you. We have our own problems thank you very much.

-Waiting for the hate mail to pour in...:)
Posted By Todd Dover, NH : 1:44 PM ET
Hi Anderson,
I can not believe how things haven't really seemed to have gotten that much better in New Orleans. I mean 2 years has past and the rest of the counrty has been able to move forward but it seems that the survivors of Hurricane Katrina seem to be stuck in time. It furstrates me that our country goes to a war across the world to help people in need. But as for the people in our own counrty, that is hard to stomach that our government is not moving quicker to help those in need to recovery faster. But all in all I thank you for the great reports, for getting the word out there, and for continuing to speak the truth. God bless you hugs, Alex 26 Chicago, IL.
Posted By Anonymous : 2:28 PM ET
I watched 360 last night only because The Daily Show was a rerun, but I will admit it was interesting. Instead of an hour of blaming and whining, the stories showed some new angles. My favorite segment was Julia Reed (I hope I got her name right) who was completely honest and stated that N.O. was a mess BEFORE the hurricane. It seemed like AC was wishing that she would shut up because her opinion did not fit his overall theme, but she made several good points.

I know it is politically incorrect to say this but, I am tired of hearing about Katrina. When you live in an area that is subject to natural disasters you take your chances. I live in California. We live with the threat of a huge earthquake destroying our cities and homes. Earthquake insurance is ridiculously expensive and it has been said that there is no way insurance companies could compensate the number of residents with the market value of their homes anyway. We have been told that in the event of a quake we should be prepared to be on our own for three days and we should have earthquake kits prepared. We all know it could happen any day, yet we choose to live here. I went through a quake in 1988. I was within 10 miles of the epicenter and it scared me half to death. Did I move? No. I'm still here hoping it won't happen again. But if it does, we cannot blame anyone but ourselves for making the choice to live in an area that can be devastated by nature.
Posted By Carol, Hesperia, CA : 3:31 PM ET
A "right" to Katrina Fatigue? How about doing a story of the total bastardization of the term "right"? I wasn't aware I had to have someone grant me the "right" to virtually every activity under the sun.
Posted By Todd, IL : 5:26 PM ET
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