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SPECIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION

FALL 2006

LIVING LEGENDS GATHERED HERE!

It’s Your Time Kenya History books will tell of one man’s vision that changed a nation One Year After Katrina Reconstruction continues for the costliest hurricane in U.S. history

EXCLUSIVE: 19th Pastoral Anniversary Salute :: PLUS: Spirit & Truth | Heart to Heart 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:55 AM Page 5

features IT’S YOUR TIME KENYA 10 Bishop Eddie L. Long’s most recent journey “back home”—learn the latest historic develop- ments of one man’s vision to change a nation. 6 BY DR. SAMUEL R. CHAND

SPIRIT & TRUTH 2006—ADVANCING THE KINGDOM 14 NEW BIRTH FROM COAST TO COAST New Birth in Spartanburg, South Carolina and in Concord, California. BY VANESSA BURKE 20 2006 SPIRIT & TRUTH CONFERENCE ITINERARY

HEART TO HEART 2006—I AM WOMAN: FEARFULLY AND 17 WONDERFULLY MADE THE JOY IN SUCCESS A woman shares her encounter with a muscle wasting disorder. BY SUCCESS PETREZ 2006 HEART TO HEART CONFERENCE ITINERARY

HURRICANE KATRINA, ONE YEAR LATER RECOVERY’S LONG ROAD 20 Most “Big Easy” living is still turned upside down. cover Take a look at where we are now. the BY SHARON FRAME on THE LIGHTHOUSE History was made here! Living legends, including four 24 The Body of Christ can keep the light on for those still U.S. Presidents, came togeth- drowning in troubles 12 months later. er for the homegoing of Mother BY LISA LOVE WHITTINGTON held here at New Birth earli- er this year. From l. to r.: First Lady Vanessa Long and Bishop Eddie L. Long; department President William J. Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton; NEWSWORTHY President George H. W. Bush; Martin Luther King, III and 6 A 19th Pastoral Anniversary Salute; Coffee, Tea Elder ; President and Called to Conquer; Dekalb County Welcomes George W. Bush and First Commissioner Lee May; Unity Prayer: The Body Lady Laura Bush; Dexter King and ; First Lady United as One Voice Rosalynn Carter and President . contents FALL 2006 THE NEW BIRTH VOICE 5 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:55 AM Page 6

A 19TH YEAR SALUTE V | newsworthy Happy Pastoral Anniversary > A 19th Year Salute PHOTOS BY BEN BROWN AND RAYMOND HAGANS

> Dekalb County District 5 Welcomes 1 Commissioner Lee May > Coffee, Tea & Called to Conquer > Unity Prayer

The anniversary celebration of Bishop Long's 19th pastoral year brought in lots of acquaintances, good times, familiar faces and revelatory word...

1) Bishop Neil Ellis travels from the Bahamas to honor his longtime friend, and to speak a prophetic word to the congregation; 2) The smile of this First Lady is brilliant! Elder Vanessa Long and the Bishop share laughs during the "get to know you" talk- show format; 3) Bishop Long extends heartfelt appreciation to the First Lady and family for their never-ending support and sacrifice; 4) Presenting... the Bishop Eddie L. Long Family Life Center; 5) Time for flag football... but New Mercies can't catch the BELL Brothers! 6) The Bishop and First Lady emerge from the swords; 7) Bishop Ellis prays over the eyes of a visionary; 8) Born Again Dancers—on fire! 9) Eric Snow, starting point guard for the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers, presents Bishop Long with a jersey and an autographed basketball; 10) Radio personality Connie Flint from Praise 97.5 stands 2 3 with Bishop Long and First Lady during the ribbon cutting; 11) Recording artist and producer Fred Hammond ushers the congregation into praise and worship; 12) All eyes on the Lithonia High School Marching Band; 13) Longtime brothers—Bishop Long and Pastor Jessie Curney of New Mercies Christian Church—embrace before the football bat- tle against each other begins; 14) WSB Television Anchor Monica Kaufman leads a fun and person- able interview with Bishop Long and First Lady during the "get to know you" talk show format. 4 5

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material while enjoying a beverage. Rearranged book- Coffee, Tea & Called to shelves provide more room for customer shopping, and Conquer the kids/teen section has been relocated to make it more visible to shoppers. BY FAYTHE P. VALENTINE There’s also an Café-style seating, a rich selection of coffees and teas, expanded general marble and porcelain tile floors…these changes and oth- gift section; more ers have surely caught your attention if you’ve been in New Birth gift the Called To Conquer Cathedral bookstore lately. selections; Spanish “After five years in business, it was time to freshen Bibles; and, hip things up, give a cleaner look and give a more elegant hop gospel music feel in order to stay in line with the vision of our great leader,” says Minister Reginald Finley, store manager. Now visitors to the bookstore can sit and peruse reading

offerings. Dekalb County District 5 The new café-style has been added to promote Welcomes Lee May greater sales and also to give the customer an enjoyable, fresh atmosphere to shop and fellowship. The changes have also attracted people who normally did not visit the bookstore. “It still amazes me the number of people who continue to come into the store for the first time and are not new members,” Finley adds. Change is also coming to the Stonecrest Mall book- store location, where planners are currently developing a sitting and reading area. Experience the new Cathedral bookstore Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday and Wednesday, one hour before and after service.

NewBirth’s own Elder Lee May was sworn into office as the Dekalb County Commissioner on July 19, Join -area churches for 2006, with best friend and wife Robin by his side. In a written thank you to his supporters, Lee says, “I UNITY PRAYER: desire to bring the government closer to the people. I THE BODY UNITED AS ONE VOICE realize that most political newbies start out with great PSALM 133:1 intentions. Too often, this ambition quickly fades because of bureaucracy and challenges that come with being a leader. However, it is my prayer that the Sunday, September 17 passion, integrity and zeal that I now have does not 5:00 p.m. fade. It is also up to you...the people (in and out of Philips Arena the district) to hold my feet to the fire and to keep me Atlanta, GA accountable to my actions.”

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yourit’s Moving the earth for a tree-planting during the inaugu- ration of the Bishop Long Radio and TV station in time Eldoret, Kenya K10 THEPHOTOS NEW BIRTH VOICEBY eOMARFALL 2006 HARBISONNYa 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:56 AM Page 11

Phenomenal and historic year, three-tier plan, which was suc- cessfully executed on all three change is unfolding in the fronts in meetings with the highest nation of Kenya—and at the levels in government, church and core of this evolution is a business. Take a look at the day-by-day prophet by the name of progress of history in the making Bishop Eddie L. Long. Since during this most recent trip to the motherland’s nation of Kenya: his first visit to Kenya, Bishop New Birth team and native Kenyans Long has contributed more than $1 million to a variety of Wednesday, causes there. DR. SAMUEL L. July 26 Y CHAND gives a first-hand Team arrives in Nairobi, Kenya. KeN a account of the latest Kingdom developments as a result of Thursday , July 27 2006 Bishop Long’s recent journey 7 AM—Breakfast meeting with Vice the team “back home.” President Moody Awori and his entourage of high-ranking govern- Members of Bishop Long’s “Years ago, my forefathers left this ment officials. The Vice President is team were tactical, business, continent against their wills on a leading an initiative to “house” the church, media and support boat. I realize that we, now known 1.8 million orphan children in Kenya as African Americans, were sent to by placing them in homes where personnel—each adding value. the U.S. to bring the resources of they can grow up in a household in Team members included: the Egyptians to our brothers and an effort to break the cyclic nature of sisters here in Africa and Kenya in poverty and thinking. It takes ■ Bishop Eddie Long particular. I’ve come back home— approximately $15 per child per ■ Dr. Samuel Chand not as a visitor but as a brother, month to house, clothe, educate and ■ friend and Africa’s ambassador-at- nurture an orphan in a home con- Dr. Benson Karanja large. I’ve come back home.” text. Bishop Long was extended an ■ Pastor Terrell Murphy invitation to his office at any time. Bishop Eddie L. Long spoke ■ Pastor Carl Smith these words repeatedly during his recent homecoming in Kenya, July 9 AM—Flew to Nakuru on a small ■ Mr. Thomas Dortch 25 – August 1, 2006. In his fourth 11-seater propeller plane and landed ■ Mrs. Carol Dortch trip to Kenya within six years, on a gravel runway. ■ Bishop Long blessed the people in Mr. Jerome Edmondson a variety of settings—huge and inti- 10 AM—Dedication of the Bishop ■ Elder April McLaughlin mate—by reminding them that he Eddie Long Conference Center at ■ Elder Pat Riley was wielding all his formidable the Center of Hope. This four-story resources, influence and business building will be a Four-Star ■ Mr. Jaffa Breedlove enterprises in their favor. He was hotel/conference center that will ■ Mr. Michael Caesar not the middleman; he was their employ many of the orphans and ■ sponsor! under-resourced youth as well as Mr. Omar Harbison Carefully and strategically build sustainability into the Center ■ Mr. Pete Wilson planned by Dr. Samuel R. Chand of Hope, which teaches computers, ■ Mr. Anthony Randolph and native Kenyan Dr. Benson M. tailoring, hair-styling and other voca- ■ Karanja, the trip included a three- tional trades. This vision is sponsored Mr. Tony Render 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:56 AM Page 12

evangelical Christians, hosted a ban- guage of economics and commerce, it’s quet in Bishop Long’s honor. This is President Kibaki allowed their previ- the largest church organization of its ously scheduled 20-minute meeting your kind. Bishop set them on fire with to be stretched into almost 1_ hours! his message “What Did Eve Eat?” Bishop held the President’s hand and prayed for him; he presented the time president with a check for $50,000 Fr i d a y , toward famine relief. July 28 3 PM—Meeting with former Y 7:30 AM—Business meet- President Daniel arap Moi at his resi- N ing with Permanent dence. Bishop Long serves on the Kby 10 Christiane families of the aSecretary for Labor and the International Board for the Moi Nakuru Christian Professional Managing Director of Tea Growers Foundation, which deals with peace Association. Bishop Long donated of Kenya. initiatives, poverty, AIDS/HIV and $50,000 toward this project. international conflict resolution. 10 AM—Meeting with President President Moi has asked Bishop 11 AM—Visited the Bishop Eddie Mwai Kibaki at the State House. Long to serve as Chairman of the Long Bondeni Maternity Hospital. During this time Bishop Long shared U.S. Moi Foundation Board. This maternity facility is already with the President of the country BishopLong presented him with saving lives of both mother and how he loves Kenya and Kenyans $20,000 toward the foundation’s child. Facilities are being upgraded and wants to lend his influence and initiatives. along with equipment and person- resources to reach the country. nel. A $5.2 million state-of-the-art Greatly surprised that Bishop Long 8 PM—Bishop Long discussed hospital is being planned. Bishop came as God’s man speaking the lan- Kingdom collaborations during a Long donated $50,000 toward the hospital. Shining God’s Light at the Bishop Eddie Long 12 PM—Visited the Mayor’s office Bondeni Maternity Hospital where blueprints of the proposed hospital are presented by the archi- tect and his team along with finan- cials to support the project.

1 PM—Luncheon hosted by business owners and professional connections to honor Bishop Long and his team. This was attended by almost 100 of the top business and government leaders who were thrilled about the progress in their city through Bishop Eddie Long.

3 PM—Flew back from Nakuru.

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lowing note—“Uncle, clear for me these balances. My number …” Moved by the young man’s initiative in “walking through an open door,” Bishop Long immediately commit- ted to paying off his $3,500 universi- ty bill. Monday, July 31 9 AM—More than 60 high-level government officials and leading business leaders met with Bishop Long and his team to discuss fur- ther Kingdom collaboration in business. The Director of Tourism said, “Normally, we go out there to gain partners, but your visit is very abnormal and very welcome—you came to us!” This is a premier meeting—one that Kenya has never experienced before. Historical is the Bishop Long presents a $20,000 check to former Kenyan President only way to describe it. Daniel arap Moi in support of the Moi Foundation initiatives. 2 PM—Lunch with leading govern- ment and business leaders to private dinner with the Chairman gathering of more than 2,000 for debrief and solidify future under- of the Diamond Bank. their Sunday service. takings.

11:30 AM—The Biblia Husema 4 PM—Visit to Africa’s largest slum Saturday, July 29 Radio and TV (The Bible Says where 1.5 million people reside. 10 AM—More than 2,000 youth Broadcasting) facilities are named the The sights and smells will be with from all over Kenya gathered for a Bishop Long Radio and TV station the team forever. Bishop Long was youth rally. Pastor Terrell Murphy in his honor. Bishop Long dedicated invited to a “bone-jewelry factory” and Bishop Eddie Long ministered the construction of the tower and where youths are employed in turn- powerful messages of hope. the offices/studios. A marching ing bones bought from the butch- band preceded by a stepping band ery into beautiful jewelry. led the way and he preached to an 3 PM—Over 200 pastors gathered open-air crowd who gathered to To contribute to this ongoing cause, to receive revelatory Word through hear this prophet of God. Bishop or for more information on Kenya, Bishop Long. Long donated $40,000 toward this call 770.696.9600, or visit project. www.newbirth.org. Sunday, July 30 Bishop Long ministered “An Open Dr. Samuel L. Chand is president of 8 AM—Flew on a one-propeller Door of Opportunity.” As we pulled SRC Ministries. His latest book, “Ladder plane to Eldoret. out of the compound, a young man Shifts,” deals with new realities, rapid ran to the car and gave a copy of his change, and your destiny. Find him at 10 AM—Preached at a church university tuition bill with the fol- www.samuelchand.com.

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20 06 SPIRIT&TRUTH

ADVANCING THE KINGDOM

NewBirth from Bishop Eddie L. Long is very to pleased to announce that New GentryCo says his ministry ast has been new son.Co It was a night Gentry ast will blessed because of Bishop Long’s not forget. Birth has two new satellite wisdom and wealth of knowledge. Says Gentry, “My first and fore- churches, representing East “Bishop Long is a trailblazer; he most goal is to please God and give honor to Bishop Long, my spiritual and West, with New Birth goes before his sons and daughters and prepares the way. His willing- covering. My desire is to live such a Spartanburg in South Carolina ness to share the experiences he has life that my wife, children, and fami- and New Birth Concord in been through in ministry saves oth- ly can say long after I’m gone that it ers, like me, from dealing with a lot mattered that I was born. As for California. Both churches were of unnecessary time, effort and hap- ministry, my desire is to advance the already in existence, and both penstance,” he says. Not only does Kingdom of God by challenging senior pastors heard the call being connected with Bishop Long those of whom I am afforded the opportunity to come in from God to submit their contact with to move into church under the headship of “My goal for New Birth the already; to bring pas- Bishop Long. Assistant editor Spartanburg is to build tors and leaders of cities together for the common VANESSA BURKE reports… Kingdom-minded people to well-being of our society become ‘A City of Refuge’ and communities.” Spartanburg, South Carolina that will minister to the Of the new and bold “I was introduced to Bishop Eddie beginning New Birth L. Long in 1997 through a cassette whole man from generation Spartanburg has made, tape that was given to me by Pastor to generation.” Long says, “You invited a Curtis L. Johnson,” says Gentry, SHAROME L. GENTRY, SENIOR PASTOR full perspective and con- pastor of New Birth Spartanburg. sciousness of the “When I heard Bishop for the very [ ] Kingdom. I believe God first time, my baby leaped. benefit his church, but personally, has called this state to usher a move At that time I lacked identity, and Gentry says he now has identity and of God that the eye has not seen hearing Bishop Long for the first accountability, as he looks to Long nor the ear has heard. You are about time helped me discover who I was for guidance and impartation. to alter the course.” Long then pro- in Christ.” For Gentry, Long’s The dedication and recognition ceeded to teach them about being “bold stance, uncompromising service for New Birth Spartanburg in bondage, in captivity in Egypt – principles on the Kingdom, and his was held on June 5, 2006. That with Christian expressions. Says ability to be transparent” was an night, called “The Great Long, “My assignment is to get you attraction. Gentry became another Announcement” by Gentry, Long to recognize where you are, and son in the ministry of Bishop announced to the city and the how to get out of there quickly.” Long’s faithful sons in God’s nation that he was pleased with his Long said to the people of New Kingdom.

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Birth Spartanburg that they are an interruption in their bloodline, and he charged them with this thought: “your limits and your bound- aries are an imagination.”

Concord, California “The Lord spoke to me and said it was time to visit Bishop Long’s church in Lithonia ,” says Pastor Carl Smith of New Birth Concord in Concord, California. “Out of obedience to the Spirit of God, upon arrival at New Birth Lithonia the connection was made

“Our ministry has doubled because in size since the event of the ‘Thunder in the Bay.’ The unity in this house. I com- same anointing that is upon mand you to be New Birth Lithonia is upon healed, to be whole; New Birth Concord.” your church to move in CARL SMITH, SENIOR PASTOR Kingdom dynamics, not to lack for anything; to rise up in [ ] prosperity, to move in the things supernaturally. Our relationship that God ordains; a new joy and a admin- was formed.” Smith says that in new peace and a new power. I com- istration Long he saw a man who does mand vision in you like you never offices, Family Life not compromise when it comes saw before.” Center, Abundant Life Bookstore, to the Word of God, one who gymnasium and more. They also operates in the spirit of excel- “Not only has the ministry experi- plan on starting the New Birth lence and integrity in ministry. enced change, but I have also experi- Recovery Facility for men and Smith says their ministry has not enced change in my own personal women who have been bruised, only doubled in size but has experi- life,” says Smith. “I see a greater crushed and broken down by calami- enced an increase in finances since manifestation of the anointing and ties to help them live abundantly in the event “Thunder In The Bay,” favor upon my life to fulfill the call Christ. where Bishop Long, referring to of God.” “In line with our vision God has Psalm 133, commanded a powerful With this new move, God is bring- shown me that we are to tear down blessing over the people: ing together East and West. They denominational racial barriers, even plan on building a 70,000 building a multicultural church that “You are in a place where God square foot New Birth West Coast will pattern the Kingdom of God,” commands the blessings. I’m about to Cathedral that will house a sanctu- says Smith. “The same anointing command some blessings over your life ary, childcare facility, classrooms, that is upon New Birth Lithonia is upon New Birth Concord.”

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2006

I AM WOMAN: FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE

Writer SUCCESS PETREZ and my teammates and I had plenty taken, and if I didn’t win, I would of medals and certificates to prove learn from the experience and per- shares her encounter with a our top positions in sport. Nothing fect my style for the next time. muscle wasting disorder. “My stopped me. It was at this time of my excel- desire is to encourage God’s Although I had to work a lence and great achievement that I little harder at long distance started to experience strange and children everywhere,” says running, I was still odd things. It became harder Petrez, a native of Manchester, quite good. I and harder to run as freely England. In spite of setbacks, enjoyed the as I normally would. freedom Just to lift up one leg her perseverance and heart for of mov- the after another God stand tall. There’s no ing my became a strain. denying she is woman, fearful- body ly and wonderfully made! joyin I was widely known in my community success for my I was very scared and strong pos- didn’t know what to do. ture and ath- Terror had a grip on me like a letic ability. from one firmly buckled straight jacket. Swimming extreme Nothing had prepared me for this and long dis- to the level of fear. tance running next were my two whether this The wind was bending, main sports. In any I was now dealing with the fact sport I undertook, I kicking, or just feeling the breeze that I was losing the ability to enjoyed pushing myself walk. The easiest way for me to beyond limits and attaining new whiz through my sleeves as I ran, or the control it took to deal with this was to not acknowl- and greater goals. edge it and carry on with life as Swimming came easy to me. I stop the speed of my body from running. This for me was exceeding though it was not happening to developed strong movement in all me. But this in itself was not an four positions: front stroke, butter- my limits and making new progress in anything active I was doing. easy thing for me to do. You see, fly, backstroke and breadths stroke. even if the wind was too strong it I was accustomed to finishing first, Very rarely was I beaten or over

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would easily blow me over. killed me! the back of my subconsciousness On many occasions when a slight I associated wheelchairs with even though my body was getting breeze knocked me to the ground hospitals and sickness. I had never weaker and weaker. people would laugh at how easy it seen any positive media images or Increasingly I began to find it was for me to drop and how I influences about anyone using a harder and harder to move and life reminded them of cartoon charac- wheelchair; I never saw athletes, got very difficult for me. I called ters. I suppose somehow it was models or anyone in my out in desperation and fear “God funny for someone of my tall community. I didn’t Help me!” I heard Him reply, and strong stature to be want to have the “Here I am!” bowled over by a slight stigma of This was 10 years ago. I am still breeze. being odd, using a wheelchair, an electric I remember one unusual and wheelchair, but since I called upon occasion when I was different. His name, I have learned that it is about to get on a Though I ok to go through with my trust in bus. An elderly lady struggled God. I expect to come out the was boarding in for a long other end reaching my goal— front of me, and I which is to run the New York City had one foot on the Marathon! This is the joy I look to, bus and the other off. for Jesus himself looked to the joy Unfortunately, the driver the set before Him, scorning the said he didn’t see me and shame of the cross He endured drove off. The jerk of the bus (Heb 12:2). knocked me off balance and I was time, With great joy my eyes unable to recover so my body I joyin are set on God’s Word that dropped straight to the ground. I stayed I am healed and I shall leap didn’t even have body strength to away success like calves released from the guard myself from the impact so from a stall (Mal 4:2). I am not when I fell it looked like a heavy wheelchair removed from the hope because I sack of potatoes dropping to the until I desperately, as a last option, have great joy in what I have set ground. had to use one. I was extremely my eyes on. I am not anxious embarrassed. I felt as if I had no because He has given to me His Success on wheels identity. My main concern was, peace and I look to the promise “What would people think?” I that He is faithful to perform. As the months went on I kept dreaded showing any signs of Now I’m not telling you to deny myself hidden most of the time, weakness or frailty. So many had what you are going through. I am though this was not on purpose, high expectations of me, including telling you not to accept it as the but because I had no way of get- myself. finale. I am also telling you not to ting from one place to the next. I deny the victory that Jesus has drove a lot but had no way of get- New York, New York given to you through His Word. ting to the shops, visiting friends or See the joy set before you. It will going out. I was either in my house As I pressed through many hospi- carry you through. God is faithful. or in the car and would do every- tal tests, biopsies and operations, thing from those two places. I doctors and specialists were left Success Petrez is a writer, and editor of never thought of using a wheel- dumbfounded as to give my condi- the MCA News (Manchester Christian chair. The fear that it was getting tion a diagnosis. This pleased me, Assembly Newsletter) in Manchester, harder for me to walk was enough for then I could proclaim that England. She has begun to train for the for me to handle at that time, so nothing was wrong and continue New York City Marathon. using a wheelchair would have to push it further and further into

18 THE NEW BIRTH VOICE FALL 2006 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:56 AM Page 20 recovery’shurricane katrina, one year later It’s been one year since the monstrous hurricane they will have a permanent home to go back to. Some Katrina slammed into the U.S. gulf coast, turn- people have resorted to living in tents on their wrecked property, refusing to budge while they wait on long- ing lives and “Big Easy” living upside down. delayed federal funds to rebuild. Where are we now? New Birth writer Katrina chased about 200,000 people away from New Orleans. The city’s pre-Katrina population of 450,000 SHARON FRAME reports... remains only half its former size, with displaced resi- dents still scattered across the country as far west as One year later, tens of thousands of storm victims are California and as far east as Maine. Given a choice, a lot still staggering from the catastrophic blow. Many remain of them don’t plan to return. homeless, hopeless and submerged in frustration. Some What has returned is crime. June saw the deadliest are still tangled up in government red tape that often single shooting in the city in 11 years—five teenagers puts a chokehold on promised relief. gunned down while they sat in a vehicle. The crime While recovery seems painfully slow, it’s not so for prompted fears that a resurgence of violence could everyone. In some neighborhoods, the buzz of electric threaten the city’s already fragile recovery, and scare saws have been heard for months, as storm survivors away desperately needed tourists. So, Mayor Ray Nagin rebuild their homes and their shattered lives. For the 20 called in the National Guard to help patrol the streets. percent of New Orleans that escaped severe flooding, That could help counter looting and drug-related including the wealthy, mostly white districts, reconstruc- crimes in poor neighborhoods that are hurting for tion has been easiest. recovery efforts. Some residents say they are having a But it’s been very hard for the poorest of the city’s tough time rebuilding because thieves are making off poor. Those in the Lower Ninth Ward were among the with supplies. first to be washed away when the flood walls broke and the levees collapsed. government bureaucracy slow progress What’s also hampering progress is complicated bureau- cratic red tape. Flooding destroyed 110, 000 single New Orleans bore the brunt of Hurricane Katrina’s fury family homes in New Orleans alone. The city’s permit as the storm roared ashore on August 29th. Eighty-per- department says since January, homeowners had begun cent of the city, which sits well below sea level, was renovations on 32,000. And that may be due mainly to buried under water. Who can forget those painful images private residents who have grown weary waiting on of people desperately clinging to rooftops and pleading stalled government funds or direction. So, they are for rescue? gutting and fixing their own homes. The pleas for help haven’t stopped even though the With half the city’s population absent, many neigh- deadly floodwaters have long since receded. Many sur- borhoods still look like ghost towns with debris piled vivors are still swept up in a wave of lingering problems. 20-feet high. Streets are littered with abandoned, One hundred thousand storm evacuees still live in gov- soot-covered cars. Large areas are still unlivable. ernment trailers that were designated for short-term Federally financed demolition crews are moving so emergency housing. More than half of them are in slowly that non-profit groups have come in and Louisiana. These hurricane survivors have no idea when knocked down dilapidated homes in less than half the

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time it takes government crews. than 5,000 public However, reconstruction has picked housing apartments in up since the Federal Emergency New Orleans. Management Agency (FEMA) approved guidelines on how high changing above ground homes must be built faces in flood zones. Mayor Nagin faced intense criticism for show me the money saying New Orleans What’s also spurring revival is more would “remain a chocolate city.” But money from Washington. After Images not soon forgotten. much delay, Congress approved $4.2 facts now underscore his concern over a billion in June to repair and rebuild make sure the state gives low and major shift in racial make-up of the damaged houses and property in moderate income families their fair city, due to displaced storm victims Louisiana. Homeowners will get share of the billions in federal aid to being scattered across the country. grants of up to $150,000 each for repair and rebuild devastated com- The Brookings Institution says the uninsured properties. munities. entire metropolitan area of New uncertain future Orleans is becoming whiter, less making a comeback poor and more mobile. But more than 45 percent of New Restoring the city’s image as a safe Housing shortage has pushed up Orleans residents lived in owner- convention destination is crucial as the price of a medium-sized home occupied or rented housing units. New Orleans gains traction in its by 23 percent. That puts homes These low-income, mostly black comeback push. Tourism was the further out of the reach of poorer, working families stayed in the lower- lifeblood of the Crescent City, whose displaced residents planning to go lying, flood-prone sections of the “Let the Good Times Roll” motto is back. If they do, they will find it city’s metropolitan area. The world-renown. Since the storm harder to rent as well. Brookings Institution, a national though, New Orleans has been The average rental price has research firm that tracks New rolling in debt. In June it was esti- jumped from $500 a month before Orleans post-Katrina reconstruction, mated to be $800 million in the Katrina to $1,500 a month. Experts says nearly 228,000 of them were hole and near bankruptcy. But see this as a troubling trend. flooded. Congress has finally cleared long- Much of the government’s 7,400 land grab awaited federal reconstruction funds, public housing apartments were also and which has stirred fresh optimism Some natives are worried that land swamped. and new momentum. developers and real estate moguls are The U.S. Office of Housing and The crucial convention industry, salivating over New Orleans and the Urban Development (HUD) said it which saw the last four months of its billions of dollars in reconstruction had repaired 1,000 of them and 2005 season annihilated, is position- money it’s getting. Some master promised to renovate another 1,000. ing itself to recoup lost business. plans already proposed building HUD Secretary Alphonso Jackson Before Katrina, conventions pumped mixed neighborhoods, and turning also declared that “any New Orleans $6 billion into the city’s economy the worst flooded areas into green voucher recipient or public housing every year. The convention business space. Some black homeowners are resident will be welcomed home.” is back to about one-third its normal fighting this idea. They say that But some families who want to activity rate. June saw the first real grand design for the city would price return may have a hard time finding test of the city’s ability to handle out the poor. that welcome mat. The Institute for huge conventions again. And in July, A group of advocates for the poor Southern Studies says HUD now it hosted several large conferences, has already filed a complaint with admits it plans to demolish more including the Full Gospel Baptist HUD insisting that it watches to

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convention, which drew about into a chaotic refuge for 20,000 major breaches that buried parts of 25,000 people. evacuees forced to live in squalid New Orleans under 20 feet of water. The city’s Metropolitan conditions. The Saints announced Initially, the Corps estimated the Convention and Visitors District they have broken franchise records cost of rebuilding the levee system expects the convention industry to for season ticket sales: almost to federal standards at about $3.7 be operating at 60 percent level by 55,000 sold four months before the billion over the next four years. Now 2007, and back to its pre-Katrina home season opened. federal engineers say the cost will rate by 2008. ■ Of the 81,000 local businesses hurt nearly triple to $10 billion. Most of the well-known restau- by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, where is the blueprint? rants that cater to tourists in the 52,000 have reopened. It’s one of the largest reconstruc- French Quarter and other areas that ■ Public transit is running 31 bus tion projects in U.S. history. But attract convention goers are now lines, providing 24,000 rides every critics of Mayor Ray Nagin say he open. But that’s just a small victory. day. has no comprehensive plan to kick The Brookings Institution, which ■ 17 of Louisiana’s 20 acute care the massive rebuilding job into publishes a monthly post-Katrina hospitals are reopened in Orleans high gear, especially now that reconstruction Index, found that as and Jefferson parishes. millions of federal recovery dollars of June 2006: ■ All of the city’s major colleges and are in the city coffers. ■ 40 percent of hotels and 60 percent universities have reopened. Tulane In January, his first plan to resusci- of restaurants had yet to reopen. University alone brought back tate the city was greeted with boos ■ Only one in five public schools have 25,000 students. from angry, hostile homeowners. reopened. The commission he appointed to ■ Nearly one in three displaced work- brain drain come up with a recovery initiative ers is unemployed. But as the city gradually repopulates, was accused of trying to abandon ■ Louisiana’s labor force continues to the city’s largest college, The mostly black neighborhoods. Nagin shrink. University of New Orleans (UNO), later disbanded the commission and ■ 3,400 homes are up for sale in New is struggling to recoup its losses. abandoned their recommendations. Orleans. The number jumped 40 After Hurricane Katrina hit, it lost Some hopeful observers say percent between February and a third of its student population. To Nagin’s re-election in June has June. cope, UNO has had to fire or retire brought more “clarity and renewed more than 80 faculty members. The Brookings says “that may signal a energy to the rebuilding process.” school has also taken steps to drop a desire by families to leave the area.” Watching to examine his vision and dozen programs and degrees. On the other hand, the number of leadership are critics who warn New Orleans is sinking in the gulf, and residential permits has picked up levee shock pace—almost 34,000 by early June. that it is folly to dump billions of dol- After an exhaustive study, the U.S. “That indicates a rise in home reno- lars into the city. Also watching are Corps of Engineers released its vations.” tens of thousands of New Orleanians 6,000 page findings on what caused According to the New Orleans still struggling to get their lives back the collapse of Louisiana’s levee sys- Tourism Marketing Corporation: to something called normal. tem. It took the blame for engineer- ■ Repair to the Convention Center is All agree though, the road to ing and design failures. 70 percent complete. recovery has miles to go before New The Corps has already spent $800 ■ The Super Dome is on track to be Orleans turns the corner and leaves million for levee repairs and upgrade. the devastating images of Hurricane restored to pre-hurricane condition, It met its deadline to reconstruct Katrina behind. and in time to host a capacity several crucial levees before the start Sharon Frame is a writer and crowd by September. The New of the 2006 hurricane season in empowerment speaker. Find her at Orleans Saints will take on the June. The 17th Street canal was www.sharonframespeaks.com Atlanta Falcons in the first event among them. It was one of the since Katrina turned the Dome

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hurricane katrina, one year later

th e lig h th o

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After Katrina, the church provide reliable keep her car filled with gas and find a place to rest her head since her arose up over the waters of resources. New Orleans residence is still unliv- chaos, becoming a lighthouse “The rules keep changing and there able one year later. She has a lot of are loads of paperwork. You have to for those finding themselves miles to travel on her only days off, continually prove who you are,” one then show back up to work on time in a sea of turmoil. survivor stated. Receiving incorrect Monday morning rested and ready New Birth writer LISA LOVE or too-late information and chasing to put in a full week. Debra’s story is rumors breeds even more frustration. WHITTINGTON reports Many churches have resources, politi- how the Body of Christ can cal connections, and members work- keep the light on for those ing in various organizations and fields that can provide accurate and up-to- Churches still drowning in troubles date information. Now is the time to and internal struggles 12 use those resources and make them Helping months later. available to survivors in the commu- nity so they can lean on the church Churches as a trusted resource for detailed Long after the government declares information that will help them stand that a survivor should “be alright” Nearly 4,000 churches stood strong on their own two feet. and doesn’t need anymore help, the in the path of Hurricane Body of Christ will stand as the light- Katrina. More than 300 of house—a continuous signal of provide gas cards, strength, nurturing and doctoring plane tickets, and help them were completely the spirits and souls of those affected with travel. destroyed. What does the by the storm. Debra Adam’s elderly parents once Body do when another part of While some believe that the duty lived around the corner from her. of the church is just to win souls, They had to move to Mississippi the Body has been afflicted? thank God for the Body of Christ. after the storm. Debra temporarily Heal thyself. Here’s how to Thank God for the church that is a resides in Georgia, from where she help: thumb. Thank God for the church must consistently check on the that is a kidney. Thank God for the rebuilding of her home in Louisiana. > Donate Bibles, hymnals, church that knows it is a foot. If the Then she also has to check on what Sunday school materials. Body of Christ was all elbows, where was her parent’s home, and then > would we be? travel to Mississippi to check on her Adopt a church affected by How can the Body continue to be parents. In between time she has to the storm. a lighthouse? > Open up your facility for another church’s use. > Help members to connect with their pastors. > Send work crews to help another church rebuild. > Assist a church with their financial obligations. ouse > Donate furnishings. 1332_NBVoice 9/1/06 10:57 AM Page 26

Remember th e Pa s to rs provide counseling. scattered members. Since Katrina, some couples have help with the children. decided to divorce; some families Sometimes children don’t know how Gulf coast pastors have have rifts in their foundation. There to communicate what is bothering sheep scattered across the are more arguments over money and them. It is unfair to assume that other conflicts that have come about nation. They are burdened because a child is playing outside that because of the devastation. Pressure he has not been affected. Providing with their own losses from the for some has been constant. Many activities that allow self expression is hurricane on top of trying to people are plagued with horrific an excellent way to delve into what is memories of their experience, and help hurting souls. Don’t going on in a child’s spirit. For scores of survivors have turned to instance, the colors and subjects chil- forget that pastors can slip anti-depressants and sleeping aids dren use in their artwork can be a just to get a good night’s rest. Some into depression just like any- vital indicator on what a child is need help getting closure from pos- one else. Here’s how to help: thinking, how he feels, and how he sessions, pets, jobs, relationships and has been affected. Educators are a loved ones that perished in the > Many of their books vital resource in the church and can flood. Churches can offer individual, and notes were lost assist parents in making the best edu- family, relationship and even financial cational choices for their children. and destroyed; help counseling that may help survivors rebuild their library. weather their internal storm. don’t fall into the american way. > Adopt a pastor. orchestrate gatherings for survivors. Pastors are the perfect leaders to > remind people not to judge and fall Collect a donation to Many survivors will never be able to into the “American Way.” Americans give a pastor his return to the place they considered are known for being desensitized home. One of the biggest issues for monthly salary. and setting a time limit to another’s storm survivors is the feeling of healing process. Just because a house > Allow him to connect being disconnected. Families, neigh- is standing on the outside does not bors, friends, coworkers, school- with his members at mean the inside is not gutted. Just mates and church members have because a person looks okay does your facility. been scattered across the country. not mean everything is emotionally Whether it is a special concert, a > or spiritually sound. Christians are Provide counseling for service, a picnic or a social, churches charged with walking in the Spirit the pastor to determine can help survivors feel at home, sur- and not in the flesh and must rounding them with a sense of his individual needs as remember that every soul is unique. belonging. well as the corporate Everybody’s issues are different. And needs of his church. help them to connect. everybody does not heal the same or as quickly as some others. Many Katrina survivors have had several addresses in the last year and continue to pray some are still moving around. for and encourage the same for so many survivors. Providing a database at your church survivors. Provisions of gas cards, plane tickets, may help them to reconnect with or shuttle bus service by the church a lost family member or friend. “You are the light of the world. A to the Gulf Coast may help to ease Keep in mind that the database city that is set on a hill cannot be the burden for many survivors. would also help pastors locate their hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

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