The Rebuilding of New Orleans and the Rebirth of the New Orleans Saints

My family is from New Orleans. I have strong New Orleans roots and the spirit of New Orleans runs through my veins. I visit my family there every year and I never want to leave. New Orleans is the type of place that is so alive with its food, culture, and people it almost feels like it's its own buzzing organism.

Then the storm came. Hurricane Katrina barreled through the Gulf, leaving nothing but death and destruction in her wake. At this time five years ago my father and I were frantically calling my grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins in New Orleans trying to get answers as to if they had lost their homes, possessions, or even their lives. Fortunately for my family almost everyone escaped the storm unscathed, except for my uncle who lost his entire home as it was washed away by the Mississippi River.

Five years later New Orleans is still rebuilding, and the one constant source of happiness and hope this city has had during this time of turmoil has been the New Orleans Saints. Yes, the Hornets are also loved in the Bayou but as you know and I know there is nothing like the passion for football in the South.

The Saints have almost always been a source of heartache for the New Orleans faithful with the exception of its savior Archie Manning back in the 70's. Enter Drew Brees. When Brees joined the Saints after leaving the San Diego Chargers in 2006 he not only rejuvenated the Saints offense, but the entire city. Brees' spot on passes and leadership on the field helped the Saints gain confidence and eventually to a nearly perfect season last year ending with a Superbowl win. To make things even more lively, the championship coincided with Mardi Gras in February. You know Bourbon Street was rockin' for weeks. If anyone can lead this team into glory, it's Brees. The man is so loved in New Orleans, the people practically revere him. My auntie even gave her new puppy a very special name... Drew Brees.

Saints fans say Brees and his soldiers can do it again this year. Another magical season. Another championship. Another glimmer of hope for the people of New Orleans.