As a proud citizen of the New Orleans area for the last 11 years, I was rather disturbed by Miss Duckett's article depicting the "passage of 1,461 days" that have "made little to no difference for many [New Orleans] areas."

For many residents of Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes, those 1,461 days have made a world of difference. While it is true that some FEMA trailers still dot small parts of Orleans Parish, many have been removed. Residents have been steadily moving back into storm-ravaged homes after continual repairs.

As someone who lived through the storm and as someone who has witnessed the aftermath, I can safely say that the city has rebounded tremendously. People are incredibly happy to be home again, happy to see the Saints play at the Superdome, happy to revel in the festivities of Mardi Gras and Jazzfest. The rebirth isn't something that needs to start now--it's already happening, and still is.

- Joshua Woo