Ernest Collins Quotations

We are coming back, and we are open. On the other hand, we have some challenges in certain parts of the city.

Anyone who understands the local economy here knows this is a significant event. Yes, it will be a challenge for us to come up with money, but this is a tourist economy, and we need to have it.

This is an opportunity. People who stand behind us and support us can come and help our economy get restarted.

We knew this would be an uphill struggle to find corporate sponsors in so short a time frame.

Many of the folks coming will have a chance to volunteer for a full range of activities, including clean up, Habitat for Humanity or helping people gut their homes.

Police coverage will be more concentrated and easier to maintain.

I've been surprised by the numbers of local businesses that have showed interest. That is high considering how much local areas were affected by the hurricanes.