We are so excited to welcome you to our city later this year! In the wake of the environmental disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, our hearts go out to our fellow Louisiana citizens on the Gulf Coast who are suffering from this catastrophic event. However, we also want to reassure you that all of the things that you've come to enjoy in New Orleans remain unchanged and in some ways, are better than ever.
You should know that New Orleans is located 100 miles inland, and in turn, have avoided any physical or environmental damage. Tourism in New Orleans has undergone a resurgence this year as huge numbers of visitors and convention-goers have flocked to one of the world's most exciting culinary and nightlife destinations. We continue to meet and exceed the expectations of hundreds of thousands of business and leisure travelers and festival-goers. October is one of our most beautiful and popular months, historically speaking. New Orleans tourism officials are constantly monitoring the environmental impact on our wetlands and beautiful marshes two hours to our south bordering the Gulf of Mexico.
Our world famous seafood industry has and always will go through rigorous testing from various strict agencies before our product reaches market, and our renowned chefs ensure that only the highest quality fresh products are prepared and served. In fact, our restaurants and food suppliers work with purveyors locally and nationally to ensure food quality and safety from sea to table. This has long been a New Orleans commitment. To learn more about seafood, please visit www.louisianaseafood.com.
Additionally, the BP oil spill has had no impact on the air or water quality in New Orleans both of which are completely safe and unaffected. Air and water quality samples are taken regularly and tested as they are in every major American City as a matter of course. Don't believe everything you read or hear. Especially about this town. Do you have any idea how many false reports about Katrina came out? TONS. In fact, we heard the "rumor" of the aquarium after the storm, in a big pile of glass and marine animals swimming 'round the city. When we returned, it stood strong and unchanged. Ready for you to visit and tour.
We are most appreciative of our fellow citizens around the world who are closely watching events unfold and looking to find any way to lend support. For the latest information, please visit www.neworleanscvb.com.
Thank you for keeping New Orleans in your thoughts and we look forward to celebrating with you in October!
Also, my cousin, David Ferris and I are working on organizing an optional but suggested tour of the ninth ward and surrounding areas. Dick and I have taken this tour before and it is really fascinating. Especially the work his organization is doing to educate the children. Here is their blog. More information on that later.
