Katrina's wrath   Storm surges 20 feet and above took out the first floor of even well-built structures and completely wiped out others. We hope that some of the centuries-old live oaks will struggle and survive. Most of the neighborhood is destoryed by wind and waves.

 
 the big dig  While the framework of our eight buildings remained standing, they were deemed structurally unsound and/or poisoned by mold. The first floors were flooded to the ceiling and above. We've been incredibly lucky to have scores of volunteers bring in the big rigs to knock down unsafe structures and clear away mountains of rubble, including what was left of the
three playgrounds.
 

major clean-up   Volunteers did everything from power scrubbing to heavy demolition, and all with great cheer and good will. We are more grateful than we can say to all those who trekked to Biloxi from across the country, slept in tents, and rolled up their sleeves to accomplish the impossible. With their help, we've cleared the site and are focusing on fundraising and rebuilding . THANK YOU ONE & ALL!!

our mascot  This ridiculous (and truly enormous ) gorilla was one of the few items salvaged in the clean up. Our volunteers quickly adopted the ape as a mascot. It showed up daily in the oddest places! We can't imagine why it didn't disappear in the floods along with all our furniture, toys, and playground equipment.