The day after the storm, everybody was telling us it would take six months to start up again.

The cruise industry evolved into a major economic engine for the entire city, generating $226 million in direct and indirect sales annually. NCL is a vital part of that success and I commend them for their support and commitment to the rebuilding of a greater New Orleans.

The downriver terminals are still flooded and in the upriver terminals we are clearing the debris -- boxes and cargoes strewn about by the wind.

In the next several weeks, almost all of the Port of New Orleans will be dedicated to military relief vessels.

It's a historical moment. Two weeks ago the prognosis was six months, so to pull it off so our customers have enough faith and confidence in us is very heartwarming.

There's always that possibility, but I thought there was that possibility before Katrina. Competition is not a new wrinkle. Katrina simply escalated it.

Thirty percent of the port is no longer in existence as we knew it Aug. 28.

That 18-month (Army Corps) study will cause those nine companies to relocate to other states, other ports. We cannot afford to lose one job.

The transit sheds incurred damage, but could be used while we make repairs.

As the ship calls increase, the truck calls will have to increase proportionately.