its great to see good people left out doeing what the chuch is for,reaching out in the name of God and not themselfs. You see this is what the Church is supposed to do. But way to go guys even paul needed encouragement once in a while.joshua 24:15

It's a real shame that the insurance companies and the government haven't come to the aide of these people in a more timely manner. All the good reports of progress always center around generous volunteers. May God bless those who are giving of their time and money to help these people in a time or great need.

Thank God for people willing to do His work here on earth. Those of us living here on the Gulf Coast know His goodness more everyday thanks to people like this who have chosen to do His will at a time when we most need a reminder of His love.

Well you of the German Baptists will get a little of the praise for being willing to stop you lives in order to better others lives. The praise goes to those who just DO not just talk. Thank you for your faith and for your hearts.

Please, PLEASE, read the article published some weeks ago in the Sun Herald Newspaper (Biloxi, MS), titled "Mississippi's Invisible Coast."

Thank you for all your support of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

This is the way to go. Pick out individual families and HELP them recover. You can find people through churches or if you have contacts already living in the area you can be assured your money is well spent. Just a few can't handle this devestation but many together can make things start to happen for the better. Can you imagine how much help could be given if groups all over the country would take on individual families and get them on the road to building back their house!

I worked for a week in Bay Saint Louis and Waveland cooking for volunteers from all over the country staying at a local Baptist church. I plan to return to the area in March. Our group helped clean out 5 homes so the people could start to rebuild. "Where do you start?" is a question I heard a lot that week. You start by helping one family at a time!

I was in Waveland two weeks after the storm and saw this property and have pictures of it. The devastation was indescribable and to see them building a house there is a tribute to them and the spirit of the people in that area. Kudos to these volunteers and all others who have helped. I took relief supplies down and hope to return this spring to offer my help to a family in need. I would encourage everyone to give a little, it adds up so quickly. Good luck to all affected and Bless each and every one of you.

THANK YOU, MSNBC, for focusing on the Mississippi Coast, which undoubtedly took the worst of Katrina, NOT New Orleans. Your exposure gives hope to so many on the coast, who have lived in New Orleans' shadow since August.

What a wonderful story to read! The Ohio Disaster Response team are truly a living testimony of how the Lord is working in their lives and the many blessings that can come from living by God's word.

Too bad that more politicians and government employees do not operate in the selfless manner in which Kenny Stull and the other volunteers are, guided by their desire to do the Lord's work, not by monetary gain or political power.

I pray that this story be an inspiration to all who read it and ignite a desire to help those affected by the hurricane disasters of last summer, in anyway they can.

Although the group does not want honor for what they have done, I would like to commend them for showing the example of Jesus Christ. We have seen many people in the past speak about doing something but never doing it. Faith without works is dead. Thank God for being a light and a beacon of hope to America!

I thank God that the German Baptist people heard God and are doing His work! God Bless them all!!
Blessed are those who come in His name!
Sherry

I have been paying home owners insurance my entire adult life. We think we are protected and then a disaster like Katrina makes up wake up to the reality of non-coverage. If the insurance is no good, why do the mortgage companies require us to have coverage? God bless the good folks of Waveland and other Gulf Coast communities. They played by the rules and look what happened

I feel our government has really let us Americans down. My immediate family was affected by Katrina in Mississippi and still have not received any assistance from FEMA. Their churches and other volunteer groups along with family members have been a GOD send.

god bless america it warms my heart that people still care. while i'm not able to be there people that i work with and myself took up a huge collection and sent it to help in that way

What an example for those of us who claim to be Christian. Here we see people prepared to put their faith into action, as Christ asked of us.
Thank you for what you are doing-it is a real encouragement to me and to others.

in the end these kind people will have the honor and the glory....keep up the good work

IT LOOKS LIKE THE THREE LITTLE PIGS HOUSE OF STICKS BEFORE AND AFTER THE BIG BAD WOLF CAME.GOOD LUCK IN REBUILDING!

What a story! The Spirit of Jesus Christ lives on through his Church!

I Volunteered for the Katrina Relief Effort with the Red Cross shortly after the storm. I was in Waveland and saw the devastation of what must have been a wonderful community. I feel as if I left a part of me there with the people. I also feel if I could take leave from my employment again I would volunteer more of my time. I used my vacation time and it was the most fulfilling life altering vacation I shall ever experience. My prayers of hope and healing remain in these communities and the wonderful people who occupy them.

I remember well the roads of Waveland and the Bay. I even pumped gas at the Isles Enco at the foot of the bridge on the Pass side. Even now as I see the photos of the desolation 5 months later it seems like it should be publicity for a disaster film. Katrina outdid any Hollowood production. Perhaps the proper word is destruction. And I can look at google Earth and see it as it was before the storm. I think about you folks that paid your insurance bills and I think about the year end bonus that the top executives of those same companies received. And I read that the companies are finding all kinds of reasons not to pay out and it angers me. One of the videos talks about Mrs. Demontluzon who I knew well. I was with Rene and Emily the night before Camille. They lost the drug store on the beach then but were able to come back. And the Bay-Waveland little theater was something they supported. Emily wrote the reviews under the alias L' Inconnu. I worked 5 years in theater and television and some of the plays on Boardman Ave. were as good as things I saw in New York. I read a lot of differant papers and you have not been forgotten! Many people are aware that our government has failed you and you are fortunate that so many thousands of plain people thought first of helping. I wish I could grab by the collar our "fearful leader" and shake something more than his usual folksie bull out of him. Pray for another pretzel!

It is awesome that the German Baptists are doing this. Churches all over the region are doing unbelievable work in the name of the Lord. It is amazing what they are accomplishing with God's help.

On the subject of insurance, though, it is not the insurance co.'s fault they aren't getting paid. FLOOD INSURANCE pays for flood damage. If you live in a flood-prone area, then "shame on you" if you don't have it. It is only a few hundred dollars a year.

Thanks to all who have helped Mississippi. We will never forget.

I'm from just outside of Waveland in a place called Diamondhead South. All 264 homes were destroyed, yet we are already starting to rebuild. (Without FEMA or any other government help!)We'll be ok in Mississippi.

It seems the ONLY way to get things done here, is thru volunteers. Keep up the good work. You will be rewarded.

I have been tole the primary contractor in Pass Christian for Kartina cleanup names AshBritt stands for Ashley and Britaney Chaney, daugherts of the Vice President. Is there any truth to this?

I heard from a friend in Waveland who is receiving help from a roof repairing group of volunteers. In the end, we can't wait for the government to help. That holds everyone hostage. Good kind acts and small gifts can go much further than you know and can provide hope and a sense that they are not alone in this tragedy. Help in any way you can. It's good for all of us.

Thanks for sharing this story. I went down in November with a group from my church to aid in the clean up in both these towns. We continue to send teams there. This brings such an encouragement to me and those of us who have gone to help, to know the spirit of the people is alive and well as they rebuild. Keep the stories coming. I love staying in touch with what is happening there. I'll probably return again this spring.

Amen, to giving God the PRAISE!! I am so delighted to hear of German Baptist responding to The Holy Spirit (and stepping out of their box of manmade rules)and being able to go help in the missions as Gods Word has so plaining stated we as Christians are to do. God Bless All His Children!

Thank the lord there are still people untouched by our greedy gov"t. These people through god have done the virtually impossible. Restore hope to a community that our well paid gov"t has chosen to overlook.THANK YOU LORD ABOVE!

i beleve this blog has brought more goodness in everyones comments...all ya need ..is love

Thanks for all you are doing to rebuild Mississippi! We are so grateful for every volunteer. And, in defense of FEMA, they could never have imagined the disaster that we are experiencing. We were not in a flood zone, but our entire home is gone. We have begun negotiations with a wonderful contractor and are praying it doesn't take six weeks to get a building permit in West Pass Christian!

If you want to help rebuild, you may be able to stay with us at our home in Diamondhead, MS. Especially students or church groups who want an alternative spring brak experience.Contact us through our link at www.perryand covington.com.

Without the many wonderful volunteers of all shapes, sizes, religions, genders, and colors many of us in Mississippi would be sleeping wet and cold tonight. We thank them all from the bottom of our hearts!

Our organization, "Refuge Missions, Ps. 91:2", has been coming to the Mississippi Gulf Coast since mid Sept. We try to come every other weekend and bring supplies (food, water, clothes, crock pots, electric skillets, fry daddy's, irons, mixers, dishes, silverware, pots & pans, cleaning supplies, Bibles, hygiene products, sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, hand towels, washcloths, dish towels, dishcloths, etc., etc.)to the communities of Bay St. Louis, Waveland, Clermont Harbor, Lakeshore, Ansley and most recently Pearlington. In each of these areas we have met many people continuing to endure the wrath of Katrina, but through it all they are perservering. Our entire goal is to reflect the love of Jesus Christ and do as He would do. Most all of the people we have talked to attribute a large portion of there help to churches. We plan to continue the weekend endeavors will do everything we can to make sure no one forgets.

Thank you so much MSNBC for caring about these two (once beautiful) and always charming cities. My hometown of Waveland, MS is facing a real crisis. I just read an article in the Sun Herald, our local Gulf Coast newspaper, and it says the leaders are going to do a study to see if they should merge to become one city! Dear God, I cannot imagine my hometown being anything other than Waveland! To think Waveland could be forced to have to drop the "Wave" and become "Bay" land?! One part of me thinks that is so silly! The other part of me sees the grim reality we are facing after the wrath of Katrina. People cannot conceive the level of devastation unless you have seen it with your very own eyes! I would love to know where our famous fellow Mississippian (Oprah) is? She came once (in the very beginning when the Katrina story was "hot") and left, never to be seen again! She never popped a tent or brought the Gulf Coast relief. Trust me, I was there every weekend helping any way I could and picking through the muck and mud for pieces of my childhood. I never saw her and/or any of her people (Angel Network). I just don't understand how someone in her position (not to mention being raised in Mississippi) would not chose to have more of a presence in her homestate? I feel (in many ways) she has let her homestate of Mississippi down. I challenged her to come to the Gulf Coast (without the cameras) and roll up her sleeves and get dirty with the rest of us. She has never taken me up on that offer. I was always a fan of Oprah until now. Why is her southern heart not calling her home to help? Oprah always says, "Do what you can." Well, I truly believe she is not doing all that she can. I pray someone out there (who has the financial resources) will adopt either Waveland and/or Bay St. Louis, MS. I absolutely love these two towns and they were such a joy to be raised in. Please, someone help us! Don't let these two towns (each with their own unique charm and history) have to become ONE! Thanks for reading and again... Anyone who can save the day, "Please step up to the plate!" WE NEED YOU! And, I thank you (ahead of time) from the bottom of my big southern heart! God, if you are listening... We deserve a second chance when it comes to making wonderful memories with our family and friends, as well as just feeling like we have a comfortable, charming place to call home once again.

Media tends to sensationalize those things that aren't getting done, but as part of 50 volunteers from Tennessee, Ohio, North Carolina, Florida, and Pennsylvania, it is clear that things are getting done, albeit slowly, progress which transends into hope is moving forward. Praise be to God for believing and non-believing volunteers helping families rebuild. If you can swing a hammer, please go and help!

For those who unselfishly gave their time and efforts for rebuilding Waveland and Bay St. Louis, may God be always with you. And to you my dear folks of Waveland and Bay, your faith and your willingness to accept what happened will be repaid in a different and mysterious ways. Hang on to your faith. God is not sleeping.

What a wonderful thing you're doing!! God bless you folks. I was asked by the American Red Cross to be a Shelter Manager in Ocean Springs, Ms. last Sept. It was the first time the Red Cross had partnered with a church.....our shelter was in the Christus Victor Lutheran Church....and it was very successful. I decided to stay until we could place everyone in trailers or relocate them to other cities so I stayed 40 days!! The people in Mississippi were wonderful! They never felt sorry for themselves, never complained and always wanted to help each other. Stressful days, sleepless nights, no pay but it was worth it and I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

ALright, I just can't resist writing, As Kenny stated we want all praise to go to GOD, the only ONE who deserves it. My son and I spent a week working on Jeff and Rose's house, and what an incedible week it was! We went to be a blessing, but feel like we ended up getting the greater blessing. I'll admit when I saw the desruction, I thought how easy it would be to say, where is God in all of this, instead, I heard Jeff say "When people would ask us , how could God ever allow this to happen, Jeff would respond with, It just happened, we just thank God that he gave us the sense to get out." I guess I was getting to the point of being a little cynical with life in general. We boarded the plane in Seattle, and from that point on it was a real experience. We sat beside an 86 year old woman, who was reading a book titled "When will Jesus return?" We attended services on Sunday at the First Baptist Church in Bay St Louis, and heard a powerful message, the church was crammed packed full. Full of believers, local members, new coverts and volunteers. GOD IS AT WORK ON THE GULF COAST!!! Then after a rewarding week building we headed back to the Northwest, I was contemplating the sad fate of these people and the scam from the insurance companies, when a women sitting beside me in Dallas asked where we were headed, I told the story. She responded by saying "The Church has been katrina's finest hour" Well said mam' It's not about our denomination, but about the Holy Spirit being alive and well and working in men's hearts. There were 15 men from a Nazerene Church in Seattle on our plane, who had been there too. Bless you all! I have a little better feeling that there is alot of salt left yet :).

I spent a week in Pascagoula, MS. We heard at least a dozen times that if it weren't for the church groups, they would have no help. Everyone at home says, "We're so proud of you!" I didn't volunteer to make people proud of me; I did it to serve God and others, just as we Christians are instructed to do. My calling came from God, not a selfish need to please others.

On the subject of insurance; we are not to judge. Many areas are not in a designated flood zone and therefore residents could not purchase flood insurance even if they had wanted to. So yes, the insurance companies are at fault. You can't purchase insurance that isn't even offered to you.

Katrina didn't discriminate, God doesn't discriminate, and neither should we. Katrina attacked rich and poor both. I volunteered in a working class neighborhood and an upscale one along the coast. All of these people are in need, insurance or not.

I pray for strength for all the volunteers still working along the coast. What a blessing it was to serve you. To God be the glory!

Susie Davis, I'm in total agreement with your thoughts on how we pay homeowners insurance from DAY 1 yet when we need to make claim on the policy, these MEGA MONSTERS always find a way to deny you. It's a SCAM - just like most everything else that those higger up require we have.
God Bless you all and keep up the good work on our Mississippi Gulf Coast!

How can we help? My husband is a Contractor with a trailer full of tools and a big Christian heart to serve - We live in Southern
Oregon where work is slow - if there could be compensation for our house and truck payments he could try to round up a crew and would gladly stay down there until the jobs are done. We have been involved in collecting household items to take them down to Jackson County where several Katrina families have recently
relocated and want to do more. Any ideas please e-mail us at churchbuilder1@juno.com and may God Bless you all!

I want to so thanks to the Baspist Germans,from Ohio,who came in the name of God to help those in need of help,I have a aunt,Irene Larmeu,who lives in Waveland,if anybody knows her,tell her Ilove her very much,and she can send me e-mail at the address below. May God be with you and all the volunteers.

What a blessing from the German Baptist church from Ohio. Wish I knew what town they were from so I could send their church some cash. I drove through the storm (the same day) coming back from Florida to Lacombe, La. I had no radio and I thought the storm had passed. How stupid I was. I was crossing the Mobile bridge westbound while watching the eastbound spans fall in the water...How Freaky! It seemed like the longest bridge in the world. I had to roll down my windows to keep from blowing over into the bay. I was terrified!!! I came to the tunnel and expected water but it was dry and eerily quiet after fighting the steering wheel against the Screaming winds and waves. I was the last vehicle to cross before all was shut down. We stayed under and overpass there for an hour or so along with 10 or so other vehicles. Since the interstate was closed and the bay water rising we all were scared. Then some guy said he knew how to get to highway 90 west. We all followed going around trees and other debris. After a long way we got back on the interstate. Glad I had 2x6's in my truck. One monster powerline was down across the road and some poor person hit it and flipped. He was dead and Fried....No way to get through. I back up the ramp and about 30 of us didn't know how to get under the Monster wires...Then I remembered my wet 2x6's. I poked at the arm size wires and I didn't get shocked. So I pushed the wires up (had a little help) just enough to get my truck under. I let about 6 or 7 cars and pickemup trucks through and left the wood there for the rest of the folks to use....Man, did I see destruction!!! I ran over hundreds of powerlines and had to brake for many tornaders. I made it to Lacombe and all the secondary roads were impassible except to the hospital blocks away. I talked the deputy into letting me drive to the Louisiana Heart Hospital (I told him I thought I was going to have a heart attack..lol) I really thought I was!! My friend and I parked there and walked five miles to my place. Must have climbed over 200 Huge trees and waded 150 yards in a snake infested swollen bayou...in the dark. We did have flashlights though...Snakes hanging from the trees everywhere. When I got to my place all four of my rentals got hit by Monster trees (about 35) but livable. I felt blessed with no flood there...To cut a long story short, I thank the German folks cause I'm German too. I will have a 4 bed house for rent soon....Non smokers. The Allstate people are being transferred. God bless. I just had to get that story off my chest.

Finally Christians who are living the faith, and not pointing fingers and blaming. It is so refreshing to read about Christians who are not spewing at the mouth about how wonderful it is to be a Republican. Finally Christians who dont want either praise or attention.....send that to fat Jerry Falwell, and Pat "it's ok to murder" Roberson!!! By the way..where have they been during all this...most likely at their fine homes raking in the cash. My praise to the Germans....baptist or not..they have lived the word...while W. sits on his butt and blames.

Finally Christians who are living the faith, and not pointing fingers and blaming. It is so refreshing to read about Christians who are not spewing at the mouth about how wonderful it is to be a Republican. Finally Christians who dont want either praise or attention.....send that to fat Jerry Falwell, and Pat "it's ok to murder" Roberson!!! By the way..where have they been during all this...most likely at their fine homes raking in the cash. My praise to the Germans....baptist or not..they have lived the word...while W. sits on his butt and blames.

I visited my daughter & son-in-lsw (The Chandlers) a couple of weekends ago and I still don't see all these articiles are telling people. The lived south of the tracks in Waveland, MS. The defastation is awesome. My daughter did not get any help from anyone. The are doing all their own work and still waiting for the insurance to give them what they should have. They were not in the flood plain and so were not required to have flood insurance. Their house and two other houses on their street (Pine Ridge)was left standing, but they had 9 feet of water in it. Of course the insurance said it was flood damage, not storm surge. They are working very hard to pay for a mortgage on a house that they can't live in and also pay rent in Diamondhead. FEMA has dropped the ball and they have not received any financial assistance since October of last year. FEMA has tried to give them a trailer, but have them living in some town in LA. What a government mess. The churches are the only ones helping the hard working people of the gulf coast. I had an uncle come all the way from CA to help, but our government can't help. Stop sending money to all the other countries and give it to the people of the MS Gulf Coast. And congress needs to remember that all the insurance companies that would not pay up needs to not expect any perks that government gives big companies. We little people know that. Please continue to pray and please help get help to the people who need it and not to the ones that have had government assistance all their lives and still want more for nothing. Get them out of the hotel rooms and get them working on cleaning up the gulf coast. It does not take many brains to clean up trash.

Our town of Milton Fl. "adopted" Waveland,Ms. after Katrina and offered much relief from fire department,law enforcement,etc.

dang, Harry Witt....if any need a place to stay ...on the way to the coast of my state...let me know ....i'll put ya up...for a nite or two...and i don't care if ya smoke...all are welcome at MY HOUSE!!!!....dangit....come you will be welcomed...i garontee

Myself and my husband are Hurricane Katrina evacuees
from a small Mississippi Gulf Coast town of Gautier.
After the hurricane many people from all over the USA
came to to lend a helping hand. It was a blessing to
know that there was caring people out there. Due to
no housing options and unhealthy conditions we were
forced to relocate to another state to start a new life. If it was'nt for the kindness of others we would'nt have had a second chance to start our lives
over again !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Its stunning to me that there are a couple of television shows on TV that will come and surprise you with a brand new home, for ratings of course, and yet, where are all of the deep pocket executives when they are really needed? In real life? Silly isn't it? Good luck folks, and god bless this man who desires no paycheck, or publicity, or ratings to rebuild this part of america!

Amen , or in simple works, I agree, K.A.

As a neighbor who also lived on Waveland Ave (north of the tracks) for my entire life I am so happy to see people rebuilding. I have faith that one day my town, my home will be back. I've had to transfer out of state for the time being but one day too I will be back. No matter what's happened it is still and always will be HOME.

I live in Portland, Oregon - my son (24) lives in Sumter, S.C. One week from today (Feb. 25) we will be flying into Atlanta from our respective states then boarding another flight that will take us into New Orleans. From there we will be spending the next 7-13 days in Waveland doing whatever it is we can do to help out.
Together my son and I have decided IT'S ABOUT TIME we go and help our neightbors in Waveland, MS. The term, neighbor is not exclusive to the individual's who occupy the apartment, home, trailer or tent next door, but rather having respect, compassion and above all love for everyone in this world who may be hurting due to circumstances beyond their control. Isn't IT ABOUT TIME each one of us takes action...stop waiting on those who we "thought" should take action, it's up to ALL of us - here and now to help our neighbors. I Praise Jesus that MSNBC is still covering this story and I pray for miracle after miracle to come to the people of Mississippi. Looking forward to lending a hand and thanking God I have a hand to lend.

Praise God!!!! May God bless your spirits!!!

Cindi, Good for you! I was praying one night for a wonderful and undeniable miracle to take place in the Bay/Waveland area, and then I realized that it already had, and that the miracle is an ongoing thing. Volunteers have opened up their hearts and come to help, right from the start, and they just keep coming. God knows what is needed and is calling and people are answering. The church is alive and responding, one car load at a time, one hammer hit at a time. That is reason for great hope and for great thanksgiving. The other thing I have seen is that the volunteers are very humble and deliberate, working hard to do all that they can in the time that they have...Why this story is not covered is amazing to me, but maybe that is the way the Lord wants it. People doing the right thing for no other reason than that they are called to do it and it gives them joy and lifts the load just a little bit for our brothers and sisters, who need us now. I don't mean to be naive. Along with the joy comes great sorrow, but together we can do so much more than any one of us can do alone. So, if you can help, please do. You won't regret it and you'll meet some wonderful people along the way. God bless Bay/Waveland as it struggles to heal and all those who are called to help in that process.

Lenora - you will be happy to know that there are 2 homes in the first block off the beach on Waveland Ave. nearing completion!!! unbelievable - it is my daily shot of inspiration to pass by on my way home from work - I lived south of the tracks in Waveland right off Waveland ave - don't worry, it's coming back - Very slowly, but surely. I'm not sure if you remember S&B's on Sears Ave - they are reopening this week!! they are the first business south of the tracks in Waveland to reopen in their original building - very exciting!!!

when people come to help you...man you just have to show them love and a smile...demomination don't matter...the GOODNESS in their hearts does

Chad, in Slidell! Shame on you, blaming these people for not having flood insurance! Do you really believe this area flooded? Can the Gulf of Mexico flood? No! water rolls in and it rolls out again. The wind from the storm caused the water to destroy everything.

This storm hit our coast on August 29th. I was on the coast just two weeks ago and continued to see devastation I had not seen with Hurricane Camille two days after she hit in 1969. Over Labor Day weekend after Katrina,I was seeing churches and private sectors helping in more ways than can be explained. Churches from as far away as SC, Ohio, NC and on and on. Thank God for this outpouring of love. It has been what has sustained us not FEMA. God Bless America.

I ran a relief site at Schaeffer's Store in Bayside Park from September until November 2005.The people who ran the store when the Hurricane hit allowed a relief site to be ran on their property. I ran the site from daylight until dark and came in contact with many people. The stories I heard from the residents who lost everything and had nothing made my heart ache when I went home to my tent at night. I knew I didn't have to be there and they were there because that was home, wherever part or all of it blew to. The devastation is still unbelievable. But through it all the people had Hope and I think that is why I will always feel connected to the people in the Gulf Coast area. I stayed to volunteer as long as I could and then came home to my family. Life will have a different meaning for me in the future. I want to thank everyone that helped and is still helping in the lower Hancock County area especially, but also great thanks to every volunteer that took the time to go make a difference. I hope to work a while and get the money to come back and hopefully when I do I can return the compassion that was shown to me when my husband was hospitalized during my stay in the great state of Mississippi. My greatest thanks to the staff at Gulfport Memorial Hospital in Gulfport, MS., International Aid, Angela Whittenberg, Ablaze Communications Tye Nelson and Maureen Canterberry, World Shelters Randy Dalby and Allegra LaBel, Lakeshore Baptist Church for taking my relief site and incorporating it into thier own when I had to give it up, Hancock County EOC, FEMA, The Red Cross, Salvation Army, The U.S. National Guard all the various churches that donated and last but not least the firefighters and forestry people from Stennis Space center. The Schaeffer's, Lawrence and Judy will always have the most special place in my heart for giving me a place to put my efforts out to the people, without them I could never have had the opportunity. They have since re-opened their business and I hope to see them in September. Stop in and see them, they are good people.

we must always remember the lord is at work all the time and for those who cant pick up a hammer, please always pray, pray, pray, no matter what church we all share the same love of the same lord. the power of prayer holds us togeather and hopefully we can all have a better day ahead with the lord at our side. God bless the prayer warriors in the world give us all hope for a brighter day. God Bless

It is so good to know that there are still people willing to lend a helping hand to their fellow man regardless of race or religion this is just awesome! This proves that God is still in charge and there is no a man or organization bigger than him!

This hurricane has changed me. It makes me appreciate the little things in life more. You never know what life is going to bring. During and after the storm people have reacted in different ways. It's sad that some have turned down the wrong road during and after the tradgedy. But on a brighter note there have been some wonderful people out here doing some great things. People have been GREAT!!!! Just makes you want to cry how heplful they've been. GOD BLESS YOU ALL! Gotta stay positive!! Happy to be alive, talk to my boys again, see my mom, talk to my sister, see friends, see a blue sky, people, smiles, laughter. the good stuff as that one country music singer says. Thank you.

Thank you, Mary Pennington of Fairfax, VA, you are right the water did roll in and then out again. Many of us were not required to carry flood insurance because our homes were " not in floodzones" according to the insurance companies flood maps. Had we thought about what would happen if our home flooded living south of the railroad tracks sure, you have a realization of the infamous what-if. When it actually hits then you realize just how under insured you are. You can purchase as much insurance as the law allows but it will not give you back what you initially loose when Mother Nature strikes. You do what you can and move on from thier like we have. Although our home was fully covered for all other events ( especially wind) and our home did flood out during the storm we have since began rebuilding our two-stroy home on Grosvenor Place.
And Chad just so you know, insurance companies on the Gulf Coast used flood zone maps to initiate which home were required to carry flood insurance. If your home was not in that zone then carrying the extra insurance was not a requirement for the homeowner. We have never blamed anyone but Mother Nature for the fury of Katrina, no President , insurance agency or FEMA representative could of ever perdicted or forseen the massive loss and destruction of Katrina, this an item not covered by insurance was truly an "Act of God". Try getting a policy of insurance for that.

Thank God :)

There are times when you feel small. Watching that hurricane map and knowing where it was coming and praying was one of those times for me. There's been no natural disaster of this magnatude and scope in the history of our country. It was apocalyptic. How do you insure for that? The only way I know how is by trying to be prudent, and having a heart and life that is as right as it can be with God, with your neighbor and family and with yourself. These are hard times. God give us the strength to find our way through them with grace and courage.

I think it is great that church groups and other indivduals help out where our own government (be it Federal, State or Local) can not. Helping others in need is not just the Christian thing to do, it's the right thing to do period! My heart goes out to everyone. I lived on the Gulf Coast for two years during the early to mid 90's, lived in Slidell, La and worked at Stennis Space Center, Ms. My wife and I grew to love the region and made many lifetime friends. I have noticed like most everyone else how New Orleans gets the press but your part of the coast as well as the areas west of New Orleans (remember Hurricane Rita?) does not even get a spit in the wind. They are just focusing on Mardi Gras and the partying thinking that is normalicy setting up once again. That region may be Mardi Gras to the college spring break punks/drunks who have taken over but they never did get any further into the other side of Orleans Parish and the other Parishes to see the true flavor of the region. After Mardi Gras is over, the locals will once again sweep up the trash and the drunks and go back to living while the "tourists" will go away with hangovers, some beads and some really dirty shoes. The Mississippi Gulf Coast will always hold a special place in my heart and Waveland in particular (I helped judge a science fair at Waveland Elementary in 1995). Don't let Mardi Gras muck it up! You can do better than that. You are not forgotten! Thank you.

I appreciate the attention that MS and NO are getting, but living in SW Louisiana and seeing the devestation caused by Rita in Cameron Parish, I can't help but wonder why there is no news media here? Does anybody remember that there were two other hurricanes in 2006 that were every bit as destructive as Katrina?

What a touching and beautiful story. I agree with Howser, if MSNBC you are my favorite but guys if you are going to cover one shouldn't you cover all of the disasters, or none of them? I know you have the resources! We are all of equal importance! From the person without a home to those who live in mansions! Thank you to Kenny and other members of the German Babtist Church for caring enough about others to give so much of you time and efforts to the families of Mississippi! Praise to you that you are doing it in the name of God! But I also totally agree with the comment made that it doesn't matter if we are Christian or not, we should reach out to those who need our help, large or small! We are Amercian's afterall and that's just what we do, no questions asked and wanting nothing in return!

I was born and raised in Bay St. Louis Ms.Waveland area.I know what type of people lives here. The most caring and loving people that would share anything that they have.This is people that are country and proud of it.
I want to mention just some of those people by name.Eddie Farve mayor of Bay St. Louis, Tommy Kidd, mayor of Waveland Tommy Longo,Police chief of police Waveland Jimmy Varnell. Waveland police department I commend all of you on that department. I watched a special report on you on msnbc. I began to cry knowing the dedication you all showed during the storm.This really touched home with me.My son was a police officer on that department for approximately 10 years.Thank God for Jimmy not cutting down that tree.Your families living there after. What a blessing for Waveland having all of you.Bay ST. Louis and Waveland you make the world proud of you.God knows you all are there.Keep pushing for success.

Thank you Mike, for this story that you have written so well on Jeff and I and thank you for keeping Waveland and Bay St. Louis in the public eye. Thanks go to GOD for answering our prayers in bringing this wonderful group of people to our single doorstep that October day. Our home is coming along so well that we should be ready to move into it within the next couple of weeks, so come back and visit us when you're in the srea. Kenny, Wade, Marvin, Jerry and other volunteers from the Ohio Disaster Response team {over 200 have rotated in and out so far} have done a wonderful thing for me and my neighbors and for the city of Waveland as a whole. I'll say so long for now but will close with this scipture from this mornings' devotions which states " Love God first, then love your fellow man." This group surely practice what the good book preaches.

My name is James Casey and I am from Kissimmee, Florida. I arrived in Waveland Mississippi approximately two weeks after Katrina struck, to help a friend of my family that I will refer to as "Tim". Tim lived at 144 Waveland Ave. and his house is one of the four houses being rebuilt by the wonderful and great folks of O.D.R. (Ohio Disaster Response). When I arrived where Tim's house once stood, it was reduced to debris from many other houses that previously stood between his house and the Gulf of Mexico. Only debris and a slab remained. Tim was optimistic but still somewhat dazed by what was left of his home. Or should I say what wansn't left of his home. Just like most others, he too is battling with his insurance companies as to whether it was wind or flood. At the point that we met with Mr. Ken Stahl of O.D.R., our focus was cleaning the property without knowing what would come and and how long it would take to rebuild. Well that answer came quickly, soon after speaking with Mr Ken and other representatives of O.D.R.. We had felt elation far greater than what we could have imagined. A clear uncertainty, had become cystal clear. We were told in the very beginning, that this process would be very swift. One cannot fathom the speed and quality in which these folks are building these 4 houses. Every week a new group of volunteers come in to pick up, where the group prior left off. At first it was the excitement of having Tim's house rebuilt. Now into the fouth week, our excitement has become meeting the new volunteers the following week. Every weekend becomes lonely, because we become accustomed to being around a great group of folks. Just when you think you have met the greatest group of folks and there cannot be any as good, the following week a group just as wonderful arrives. The folks of O.D.R. have truly become our "Angels" in the darkness after the storm. Our heart felt thanks goes not only to the volunteers who have come to help us rebuild, it also goes to the family members that stay at home and handles their affairs while they are here doing so much good. God bless them all. Also thanks to my many friends back home in Kissimmee who are helping keep my affairs in order.
P.S. Many people around the world often would like to make donations to causes or organizations but do not because they feel their donations will not reach the people it is intended for. I can speak from experience, O.D.R. reached out and touched many lives in Waveland Mississippi and other victim's of devastation throughout the United States. It is my understanding that they will be here in the fall to build more houses for those most affected by the devastation known as "Katrina".

I just returned from Bay St. Louis/Waveland after a week there volunteering with the clean-up and rebuilding efforts with other members of our church. I was struck by positive attitudes of the families we worked with. It was such a blessing to see how these people, despite such destruction, have kept their faith. God certainly is with these people!

I have 100 school desks and chairs sitting in a tractor trailor that need a home. The truck is half-filled with desks. We need to find a home for them in the Biloxi area because we need the other half to deliver donated supplies to schools. If you know of a school that needs these desks, please send an email that includes contact information.

Is there someway, somewhere that things like the above can to shoved under the noses of our government officials (notice, no caps). Everyday we read about those making 5 to 30 million a year for one individual and they want people to work for $6.$7. an hour. Please give give these people what they deserve and stop the insurance companies from robbing them blind. (think I'll pay for this? You bet, just watch).

Definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results

Rebuilding in areas that were damaged by Katrina should not be of the same construction--- you should built homes out of concrete with rebar and steel i-beams--- If you rebuild out of wood then your house will blow down again in the next storm.