Network NewOrlanta is Launched : NOLA Indymedia

Atlanta, Georgia) - The third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and its devastation to the Gulf Coast particuarly New Orleans is rapidly approaching. All of America greived with the people of New Orleans during the botched televised rescue and response efforts by the federal government. To date, families remain displaced and discouraged all over the country as the they continue to struggle financially to meet their basic needs. Those who returned to New Orleans with hopes of rebuilding have recently learned that their FEMA trailor (issued as a temporary housing solution by the federal government) are and have always been contaminated with formaldahyde. 34,000 people still remain in trailors.

New Orleans and her people, have yet to reach a level of normalacy in their lives yet plans are in action to eradicate financial assistance. The majority of those effected by Hurricane Katrina have never been offered a mental health evaulation let alone treatment or care. Survivors of Hurricane Katrina were the largest fundraising beneficiaries who have yet to be dignified with the entirety of the unrestricted funds raised on their behalf or accountability of the funds claimed to be appropriated directly to families and groups. The Army Corps of Engineers have escaped legal accountability for their design of the failed levees.

Network New Orlanta is a social networking community with a mission to connect the people, businesses, culture and cuisine of New Orleans, now living, working and existing in Atlanta. The goal of the social network is to pool and identify financial resources, job placement and business opportunities, mental healthcare access and educational advancement programs that will assist in stabilizing families effected by Hurricane Katrina. Network New Orlanta further plans to serve as a watchdog organization that will advocate, lobby and demand accountability of elected officials and agencies fundraising on behalf of Hurricane Katrina families. Organizers are all natives and supporters of New Orleans who are dedicated to the rebuilding progress and process and the quality of life for those who remain displaced.

The first Network NewOrlanta mixer will take place on March 15, 2008 at Blaxx Entertainment Complex in Midtown Atlanta (1245 Fowler Street) from 9:00 pm to 1:00 a.m. New Orleans evacuees will be treated to a homegrown Mardi Gras style experience complete with the complimentary cuisine and signature cocktails that New Orleans is known and loved for. Network New Orlanta mixers are an additional opportunity for fellowship and planning before the annual New Orleans Weekend in Atlanta events that take place Aug 25-29. "It is important that we gather more frequently to effect change for ourselves, insists ChiQ Simms, publicist, advocate and one of the event organizers. "It is vital that we posture ourselves to be a part of the solution. Our message is about prioritizing New Orleans people, not the politics."

For more information about Network New Orlanta and their upcoming mixer, please contact Sandy at sugathesoutherndiva@gmail.com.

To make a financial or in kind donation to the cause, please call our offices at 404.816.6000 or email divadend@bellsouth.net.