[StBernard] Mike Bendich

[Westley Annis]

John, 

	Thank you so very much for writing!  I was beginning to think we
truly were in a modern-day Atlantis!  I did get to our beloved neighborhood
for the Labor Day weekend, one week after the Hurricane from Hell ravaged
us.  I have seen the devastation and remnants of war-torn Baghdad and
Afghanistan.  They did not compare to what I witnessed at 3705 Corinne.  The
only living things I saw on Corinne were spiders, frogs and snakes - and
they were in my dining room!  I want to get that out of my mind for good!  

	My friend, I really don't know if my home is fixable.  I believe the
foundation is OK but the actual structure has to be weakened substantially.
I don't know enough about it, for sure!  I am praying FEMA or the Federal
Government brings in a team of "experts" to make an assessment.  I
absolutely, I say again, ABSOLUTELY, want to rebuild/refurbish my home in
the exact location.  I have come to love the area and my wonderful
neighbors, such as you.  I have patience and hope.  I also have a strong
faith in God and know He will always be there for us, no matter the
challenge.  

	Please send me as much information as you possibly can.  I am
starved for anything I can get my hands on.  This website by "Westley" is
incredible!  I can't wait to meet him/her and have a cocktail or two one
day!  

	I understand the St. Bernard Voice may get up and running again.  I
have already sent in my subscription!  By the way, if you want to email me
direct, which I'd prefer, I can be reached at: 

	Michael.bendich1 at 266fc.army.mil

	As you know, I am in Heidelberg, Germany.  The weather here is 40s
at night, 50s in the day.  It is cloudy and gray every day.  I miss my home
and all of you very much.  I look forward to the day we will again be giving
out Halloween treats to the throngs of great kids in our St. Bernard Parish.


	John, take care my friend and please keep up the great spirit!  We
will get through this!  God Bless.  

Always,
Mike