Support Asked for Greensburg, Kansas

NEW ORLEANS (May 10, 2007) – The Fleur-de-lis Ambassadors, a group of 24 business, civic and political leaders from New Orleans, are asking fellow citizens to reach out and help the citizens of Greensburg, Kansas, who suffered a devastating strike from a F-5 tornado on May 4, by donating to the American Red Cross's Disaster Relief Fund at www.arcno.org. A special donation section has been established on the Southeastern Louisiana Red Cross's website for use in making donations.

The tornado, which destroyed most of the town of Greensburg, killed at least 10 people and destroyed 95% of the community.

"We urge all of our fellow citizens to consider a donation of any amount to the American Red Cross to help the citizens of Greensburg in their time of need," said Arnie Fielkow, vice president, New Orleans City Council and co-founder of the Ambassadors program along with Dr. Scott Cowen, president of Tulane University. "As we were helped by people from across the nation during our time of need, it is important for us to help the people of Greensburg during theirs."

"By supporting the efforts of the American Red Cross, we are increasing its ability to provide free assistance to the people of Greensburg, including shelter, food, water and other services," added Cowen.

The Fleur-de-lis Ambassadors program is traveling to approximately 14 cities over the next year to combat misperceptions about the city’s recovery, reignite interest in New Orleans and share personal insights and experiences.