Hotel de la Monnaie Owners Web Log

Name:: Florine Daigle
Email:: edd@centurytel.net
Date:: December 30, 2005

Comments

Got to visit HDLM Thursday and everything looked great. The Christmas decorations were very pretty. Deliah was on vacation but did get to speak to Susan. You can see the effort being put out by everyone to get things back and it is looking good but there is still lots to do. The trolley was running on Canal and also the one on the riverfront. Looking forward to our visit in February. Florine

Name:: Margaret E Meier de Cox
Email:: coxm@team-support.com
Date:: December 27, 2005

Comments

We are at Hotel de La Monnaie as I write. Last week, the hotel implemented wireless high-speed Internet access throughout... it's great! More on our impressions of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast later.

Name:: William O. Peecher, Jr.
Email:: williamjr0305@sbcglobal.net
Date:: December 21, 2005

Comments

Please note the Owner's Ass'n Calendar included in the current packet does not specify when Week 9, Mardi Gras Week, will occur in 2006 through 2010. I know from previous year' calendars that it will trade with Week 8 in 2006 and Week 7 in 2007. Probably no point in re-issuing the calendar this year but thought I had better point it out for future reference. Bill Peecher, Dearborn, MI

Name:: Kathryn Swantko
Email:: kms112146@netscape.net
Date:: December 18, 2005

Comments

We just returned from the hotel after using our Week 49. Everything at the hotel is up and running beautifully. Some front desk personnel are new, yet extremely helpful with info about restaurants, shops that are open. While there are a number of our favorites that remain closed, we had the chance to find other terrific spots to eat and explore areas that we hadn't seen before. The entire French Quarter is quieter than normal but that's not all bad (shorter waits at restaurants, less jostling on sidewalks, fewer panhandlers). We're already making plans to go back in the spring! The streetcars started running again today and the post-Katrina clean-up is underway. I can't think of any reason to stay away from visiting!

Name:: Genny Czech
Email:: czech@zbzoom.net
Date:: December 17, 2005

Comments

I would like to hear from an owner that has been at the hotel recently. Is there anyone? TY Genny Czech

Name:: Florine Daigle
Email:: edd@centurytel.net
Date:: December 15, 2005

Comments

One of the things we enjoy in timesharing is the welcome reception where information of what is happening in the area is given. Some are very good some are not but always you get some information that you can use. New Orleans has so much to offer that I think this could be one of the very good ones. Club la Pension offers this and yes they do solict for new buyers but this is not the main purpose. Boston Marriot would be our #l informative one. Was wondering if anyone else felt that it would be something HDLM could try. Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Florine Daigle

Name:: Dixie Thompson
Email:: chaadixx@neto.com
Date:: December 13, 2005

Comments

The news letter did inform members of the law suit but did not give any particulars. In purging my files I mistakendly disposed of my copies of the letters so could not refer to them. I would very much like to know why these people are suing and what are they complaining about. If you know I would sppreciate it very much if you can give me any information about this. Also, is this man still a member? Was not he elected to the board and complained about some things and was not elected again? Thanks for any info about this. Looks like Mr. Prentiss is doing a good job getting things going again. Wish he would let us know a little more about if he has been able to rent some units our to some of the people who are there working, insurance people, etc. Thanks, Dixie

Name:: L. L. Hassie
Email:: Hassco@iname.com
Date:: December 11, 2005

Comments

Where do I "See the B.O.D. teleconference minutes of 22 and 23 August 2005 for details"? I have received the June 2005 and the September "Special Issue" of the Centime. Neither of which have the August teleconference minutes. I have just received my 2006 Maintenance fee notice along with the indication of a pending lawsuit......

Name:: Sidney Kuropchak
Email:: sidkuropchak@yahoo.com
Date:: December 11, 2005

Comments

When will the annual fee notice be mailed out? We have not received ours and we usually have it by now. Thanks you.

Name:: William Pert
Email:: wtpab@insightbb.com
Date:: December 09, 2005

Comments

Why can't we get a(brief)explanation as to the nature of this lawsuit ??

Name:: William R Wester
Email:: mwdolls@comcast.net
Date:: December 01, 2005

Comments

Questions on law suit filed please call 972-240-0344 or email me at mwdolls@comcast.net

Name:: William R Wester
Email:: mwdolls@comcast.net
Date:: December 01, 2005

Comments

Questions on law suit filed please call 972-240-0344 or email me at mwdolls@comcast.net

Name:: Rhonda and John Yoder
Email:: charlestonyoder@comcast.net
Date:: November 28, 2005

Comments

Good Morning, Can someone at the Hotel management level please comment and let owners know what the lawsuit is about? This is a surprise to us and would like to know what is going on if there may be an expense to owners regarding this. Thank you!

Name:: Margaret E Meier de Cox
Email:: coxm@team-support.com
Date:: November 25, 2005

Comments

The update posted this week is also going out by US Mail. The intent form for email addresses will be with it. The Board wants to collect the information on paper. As for the lawsuit, if you look at the dates, it began only days before Katrina and I understand that the status hasn't changed since August. I don't know what it's about but we are supposed to get a full update in mid-December with the next issus of le Centime.

Name:: Christy Edwards
Email:: CEfromLA@aol.com
Date:: November 25, 2005

Comments

I am also curious about the lawsuit...especially since it was filed in July (pre-Katrina) and this is the first we've heard of it. Bill, will you please submit a post to this website and let everyone know the details, since we are all affected? Thanks.

Name:: Sue McLachlan
Email:: suejade92119@yahoo.com
Date:: November 24, 2005

Comments

Thanks for all your messages and the update website. I've read the Nov 21 update from Bill Prentiss, and since, as a member of the Association, I may be affected by the "Lawsuit", I would like to know what the lawsuit is about. Since I don't know Bill Prentiss' email address, I am asking him through this owner's blog. Sue

Name:: Christy Edwards
Email:: CEfromLA@aol.com
Date:: November 23, 2005

Comments

Best wishes to everyone this Thanksgiving! I know we'll be raising our glasses this year to the City of New Orleans! We look forward to our visit in April! Cheers!

Name:: David Etzold
Email:
Date:: November 22, 2005

Comments

Well, already someone is using our blog to post junk. The posting by "Guest" on Nov. 21 about Texas hold em online poker should be removed. Please, be leery of going to any link posted below since this method is one used to spread viruses and worst.

[Note: I've added a verification tool to help prevent such future postings.]

Name:: Evelyn Welch
Email:: evelynwelch@comcast.net
Date:: November 22, 2005

Comments

I think sending the newsletter by e-mail is a great idea, this was suggested 3 year ago at the annual meeting, but suess the board didn't like the idea. We would really save money that we need, I receive 3 of everything and some people own more that I do ) 7 or 8) do the math.

Name:: David
Email:
Date:: November 21, 2005

Comments

The i-net newsletter sounds good at first, but there are several problems with it becoming the exclusive delivery method. Everyone does not use the i-net and some don't want to (even in this day and age). They should not be left out and ignored. Second, some people only have phone links and care must be taken to not overload their system, such as putting megabyte pictures on it. As for using e-mail, one big problem is that people’s e-mail addresses change much more often then their home address. Our home addresses are pretty much verified yearly since we get a bill. Another problem with e-mail is the privacy issues. I don’t have everyone’s home address and I shouldn’t have everyone’s e-mail address. Everyone having the addresses allows for abuse That being said, it would be nice to have the newsletter and minutes online. Perhaps, people could opt out of receiving the newsletter by snail mail if they don’t want it and want to save the hotel’s expense. Keeping a site like this one open for use by HdlM to let the owners keep in touch, express concerns and views about how the hotel is doing etc. is a very good idea. This site was setup to let us know the progress with HdlM due to Katrina, but it has much more merit than that. Again, a lesson from my experience is how things like this can grow out of hand. I’ve seen many forums devolve into flame fest when some people start expressing their angers against individuals. To prevent that and other posting abuses such as cursing, talking off topic, holding conversations between a couple of people, etc., may eventually require a moderator to read all post before they appear on the site. This would add an expense and time delays. So far, this blog has not have problems, but in time there probably will be some abuses.

Name:: Wiliam Injeian
Email:: techinv@att.net
Date:: November 20, 2005

Comments

I know that it has been mentioned before, but has there been any progress in establishing a HDLM newsletter via the internet? Considering the costs of putting out a printed and mailed newsletter, plus the timeliness of providing up to date information to owners, this would seem an easy decision. Additionally, owners can air their concerns back to our board and the hotel's management in a more direct and expidited manner. I am sure that I share many questions with other owners regarding the future of HDLM. My thanks to Mr. Prentiss for all his efforts in keeping us updated.

Name:: Christy Edwards
Email:: CEfromLA@aol.com
Date:: November 11, 2005

Comments

Glad to hear the phones are working again! Any ETA on the website and email for the Hotel? I think the website is a really important and valable tool that the Hotel needs to help market itself!

Name:: Bill Prentiss
Email:
Date:: November 10, 2005

Comments

PHONES ARE BACK!!! As of Tuesday morning, our new Cox Communication phones are up and working. This email was not sent out sooner as Mr. Prentiss wanted to be sure that all was working well. Please call the Hotel for any information or questions. We are receiving guests and looking forward to taking care of you.

Name:: Angela Cummins
Email:: angelacummins2003@yahoo.com
Date:: November 07, 2005

Comments

Thank You to Bill and to the board members for such concern and dedication during this difficult time. Reading the website, I have been very impressed. I just spoke with Interval International. They are accepting membership dues once they know that the hotel is open to guests (non-owners). When the hotel opens (hopefully this week, as planned), will it be to non-owner guests? We own two units (Jim Cummins, Jr.). Also, please add us to your e-mail list.

Name:: Evelyn Welch
Email:: evelynwelch@comcsdt.net
Date:: November 06, 2005

Comments

Any of that would like to find out more that going on in the quaters go in to NOLA.com, you will be able to read a lot. Hope to see all of you soon Evelyn Welch

Name:: Kathleen Lanc Week #20/204
Email:: ouisersmom@yahoo.com
Date:: November 05, 2005

Comments

I am so grateful to Bill and his wife and the other employees at HDLM who are working so hard to maintain our beautiful resort. God bless you all!! This website has been wonderful in keeping the owners informed of the current situatuion. We have heard little in the local news about the status of the city, since the initial catastrophe. Am so looking forward to returning in May for my annual week.

Name:: Barb Carr
Email:: hobiebjc@sbcglobal.net
Date:: November 03, 2005

Comments

My mother and I have owned a February week for many years, and hope to be able to use it once again to support the people and city we love. Thanks so much to our Editor Margaret, for supplying the much-needed and appreciated website; to Bill and his wife for their dedication and tireless work; and to all the returning staff members. My mom and I both contributed to the employee's fund --an excellent idea-- and hope all owners will be able to do the same. You are all in our prayers.

Name:: Barb Carr
Email:: hobiebjc@sbcglobal.net
Date:: November 03, 2005

Comments

Name:: John and Rhonda Yoder
Email:: charlestonyoder@comcast.net
Date:: November 02, 2005

Comments

We are relieved to hear that the kind people of the "Hotel" were o.k. after the horrible storm. Thanks so much for the updates. We hope we can see you in April. The fund for employees was a great idea and hope all the homeowners were able to give. Sincerely, The Yoders

Name:: RICHARD AND LISA DAY
Email:: DAY2DAY1@HOTMAIL.COM
Date:: November 01, 2005

Comments

I AM REALLY INTERESTED IN SELLING MY TIMESHARE PROPERTY AT HOTEL DE LA MONNAIE!! I HAVE MADE MANY ATTEMPTS TO CONTACT A SALESPERSON EVEN BEFORE THE HURRICANE HIT NEW ORLEANS BUT NO ONE RETURN MY CALL. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU ONCE YOU REOPEN THE FIRST WEEK IN NOVEMBER. I CAN BE REACHED AT (662)247-2721 OR (662)836-4096. THANKS

Name:: Genny Czech
Email:: czech@zbzoom.net
Date:: November 01, 2005

Comments

I read that someone has locked a reservation in for next April. Are you accepting reservations or exchanges. I have 2 weeks. I was supposed to come down in early Oct. for one of them.

TY Genny Czech

Name:: Christy Edwards
Email:: CEfromLA@aol.com
Date:: October 31, 2005

Comments

Thanks so much Margaret for posting my last comment! I received a call from Susan this morning and was able to lock up my reservation for next April, for the French Quarter Festival! Can't wait! We bought our unit at HdlM to use every year. We love New Orleans and look forward to our annual 'pilgrimage'. Now I can start the 'countdown clock'! Thanks again, Christy Edwards

Name:: Bill Peecher
Email:: williamjro305@sbcglobal.net
Date:: October 31, 2005

Comments

(1)I saw somewhere that 37 of the Mardi Gras Krews indicate they will be ready for the parade schedule. Am I supposed to infer from this that Mardi Gras is a go? (2) How goes the program to rent suites to the visiting rescue workers? (3) Are the local firemen still living in the hotel or have they returned to their regular schedules? I could go on and on but you probably get the drift? We are not going to receive any pertinent news from the 24 hour news channels or from our daily papers. What is now going on?

Name:: David Etzold
Email:: detzold2@hotmail.com
Date:: October 31, 2005

Comments

Since there has not been a new posting by the HdlM staff, I thought I'd share some information that Bill Prentiss gave me about a week ago in a phone conversation. He said the hotel would be open for business sometime during the first week in November, but sixteen, I think, of the rooms would not be available. He said the phones and cable would probably not be available for the rest of the year, but was not sure about that. I hope this is still true and that it helps those that need this information. If you are planning to be at the hotel in early November, I'd suggest you call Bill at the number he gave. If it will be later, I'd suggest you wait a week since Bill doesn't need to be overwhelmed by phone calls. He is very busy doing what he can for us. I hope they will have a cell phone number by then for us to call to verify our visit. Myself, I plan on being there from Dec. 16-23, if all goes well.

Name:: Evelyn Welch
Email:: evelynwelch@comcast.net
Date:: October 31, 2005

Comments

Margaret, thanks for setting this web page up for all the owner of HDLM, I really appricate all you have done for us. Hope we will soon be back in business, and New Orleas will once again be the city we all love so much.. I would be more than happy to go down and help clean, work any way that would help. We need to cut expense any way we can. Thanks, Evelyn Welch Huntsville,Al.

Name:: John Reichard
Email:: studedude12180@yahoo.com
Date:: October 30, 2005

Comments

Margaret; I also would like to thank you for you wonderful site. Way back in the beginning I suggested that some of us, as owners would like to use our weeks to come to N.O. to help out as needed. Is there anything in the works to do this? This is really a question for Bill. Thanks.

Name:: Margaret E Meier de Cox
Email:: coxm@team-support.com
Date:: October 30, 2005

Comments

The updated web log will allow you to enter your comments directly. Hope this helps with communication! Margaret

October 26, 2005

Thank you for hosting the website for the Hotel de la Monnaie, with status' in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. I am an owner, too, and I was desperate for information when I found the site, so I am very grateful.
How can I post a message to the website's blog? I'd like to enter some comments and express my appreciation.
Canterbury/Guthrie
Week 18

[Ed: You can now add comments directly above.]

October 24, 2005

Hi!
I know the phone and fax communications are still sketchy right now, but I've been trying to get in touch with them about our time for next April.
Well before Katrina, I was in contact with Susan about changing my week 14 for a week 16. I hadn't quite finalized those plans prior to the hurricane, but would like to get that done now.
I've tried emailing (useless) and faxing (also useless). I don't want to tie up Bill's cell phone, because this isn't really an emergency (except to me!).
Does anyone know if there is an alternate fax number? How about snail-mail? Is that reliable yet?
Thanks!
Christy Edwards

October 18, 2005

Yesterday, we received a letter from Interval International stating that since we would probably not be able to exchange our 2006 week at Hotel de la Monnaie, they were providing us with a Resort Accommodation Certificate valid for travel to any member resort through Dec 2006 for a redemption fee of $199.
Margaret Meier de Cox

---
Read the October 17, 2005 Status Report from Bill Prentiss

October 13, 2005

Dear Editor..............Congrats !!!
I have recently enter your name in nomination for " Editor Of The Century " and I am sure you will GET IT !
Margaret, Thanks for all you are doing for HDLM and keeping the owners informed. Very grateful for your effort. Thanks for being YOU !
Bill Reichert
[Thanks Bill!]

---
Thank you so very much for establishing this website. We got the Special Edition of the News letter and were so appreciative to find out about the Hotel and "our people". We read it with tears in our eyes. We were holding off donations until we could find out if a fund would be established for HDLM staff. Thanks for doing that. We will send our family contributions to the HDLM fund. Heartfelt thanks to Bill Prentiss for his heroic work in all this and caring for the staff and the hotel. Please let us know as soon as a possible when a decision is made on when we can return and use our weeks. Also I suggest a program where we could come back as soon as possible, use our weeks and help out as volunteers while we are there. Please pass this along to the Board. Thanks
Gerald Stokes
jerrystokes@earthlink.net

October 10, 2005

Hello,
We have been watching with great sympathy the hurricane effects on NO. We have contributed to both Red Cross and Hotel del la Monnaie Relief Fund to provide a little support to our friends in NO. We are owners of Week 5 unit 211 at the Hotel. Can you please tell me what will be the outcome of our timeshare for the year 2006. Of course we will not use the unit in Feb. but would like to exchange the unit if possible. My questions are:
1. Will we be charged the annual maintenance? If so (which I assume we will be charged) can you tell me the amount.
2. In an email sent to my husband you had indicated that Interval International may still honor our exchange. Once we pay the maintenance will we be eligible to exchange the week?
As our date is fast approaching, we would need to bank it ASAP if this is an option. Thank you for responding to my email.
Sincerely,
Judy Giessuebel

October 9, 2005

My wife and I drove into New Orleans this morning (Sunday) and inspected the outer perimeter of Hotel de la Monnaie. Everything looks good, and it seems they have done a tremendous job keeping the property from being vandalized. We drove in from 610 via Elysian Fields and could see where the water levels went and where the water stopped as we got closer to the hotel. We also drove through the French Quarter and up Canal Street from the River toward Canal Blvd. and again, could see where the water levels got higher along the way.
Since we live nearby in Covington, we would be pleased to help in any way we can to help get Hotel de la Monnaie up and running again. Please let us know how we can be of assistance.
Roger Stack

---
I think that email updates weekly to this list would be great. I also am waiting to hear about opening. I have all three of my weeks moved to NOV 11 (two as in house trades) and am anxious to know what's up. I have three other couples that are also due to be there that week.
While we don't expect everything to be as before, we are looking to spend our annual time in the quarter and are more than happy to help begin supporting those that provide us so much happiness.
Bill Prentiss, how about some email updates?
Doug Leininger

[Note: We are going to try to get updates out weekly, or at least frequently. See link to latest below.]

---
Status Report from Bill Prentiss written October 7th - Read the text on the Hotel de la Monnaie Owners Status Report page.

Received Oct 7, 2005

Hi, My name is Christy Edwards, and I am an owner of a week in April (I'm not sure of my unit number!). I received the "Special Edition" of the newsletter and had some comments I'd like to make, before your next Board meeting.

One issue that l feel is very important and should be a priority is this:
I think the Board/Management needs to compile a list of email addresses for all of the owners, then email the minutes of the meetings to us within a couple days of the meetings. It is ridiculous in this day and age to wait and publish a newsletter; by the time the newsletter is written, printed and mailed, it is OLD NEWS. In addition, the expense of printing these newsletters and the postage involved is an expense that is not a necessary expenditure.

At that point, when the list is established, Bill (or whoever) could send a weekly update so all of the owners could be aware of what is happening.

Despite the 'Old World' feel of New Orleans, it is 2005, the time of email, blogs, wi-fi, etc. There is no reason for the hotel to communicate as though it is 1975. It's not practical, nor is it cost efficient. Once things are 'back to normal' the board should also look into making wi-fi available at the hotel, as well.

Technology has moved forward; the Hotel de la Monnaie needs to as well. (While you're at it, junk the VCR's and replace them with DVD players!).

Thanks, Christy Edwards

[More comments?]

Received Oct 6, 2005

First and foremost, I'm very proud that the hotel has acted as it has before, during, and after Katrina, by allowing the firemen to stay there and for setting up the relief fund for the employees. I'm especially happy with Bill Prentiss and his actions during this time. He showed a great deal of care and concern for the staff, guest and the hotel itself.

I know there is a lot of work to be done at the hotel and everyone involved is very busy. However, I suspect you are getting many calls from owners wanting to know what is going on with the hotel. Having someone on the staff or board post a short message each week on the website until the hotel is open for normal business might reduce the number of calls and it would be both useful and calming for us owners.

Since the Quarter has been reopened, I assume someone has been to the hotel and begun cleanup, but it would be nice to know that this is true.
Also, in the newsletter there was mention of renting some rooms. Has this occurred?

My personal question is will the hotel be ready for occupancy by December 16. I have done an in-house exchange for that week and would like to know if I need to change my vacation plans. I don't need a definitive answer, but an estimate of when HDLM will be open for normal business would help with my planning. I haven't called to ask this question since I'm sure you are all busy and I'm also sure other people need this same answer.

Again, I want to praise the board and staff, especially Bill, for the intelligent and humanitarian dealing with this extreme disaster to New Orleans and her people. Please, keep up the good work.

David Etzold

[Thanks for your suggestion. I have forwarded it to the board and encouraged them to send some more information! I, alas, am only the web monitor and am not in New Orleans (I'm in Alabama). I'm sure the staff is hesitant to say too much and raise expectations. We were hoping to do some pre-Christmas shopping it the Quarter this year, but hadn't made the reservation before Katrina. I don't hold out much hope now.]

Received Sept 27, 2005

Thanks. Sent my check in last week. Hope others do too. The devastation is unbelievable. I've seen photos from my daughter's home, from a house a few blocks from my parents... Today, some of my family went back on a recovery mission. My niece couldn't get inside because of snakes. Thank goodness we can offer our staff jobs. So many people lost their homes and their jobs too.

Just got an email saying that power is back in the quarter. Hopefully, things will begin to move more quickly. Appreciate all your help to keep the site going.
Sandra

Received Sept 26, 2005

These photographs, accompanied by music, are pretty powerful and truly depict what happened in New Orleans during Katrina. Not everyone will be able to view this attachment on their computers, depending on capacity. [This is a 3MB PowerPoint Slide Show and unless you have a high speed connection, it will take a long time to download.]
Thanks again for all your help.
Sandra

The Great USA Flood

Received Sept 19-22, 2005

Has any one heard the status of the hotel? I had a group of 16 going 11 November.
DL

My husband and I own week 18 and week 32 at Hotel de la Monnaie. Will you please add us to your email address book.
Cathy & Elmo Cavin

Would you please add me to your mailing list? I own units 400-5, 402-26, and 403-9 and my name is Bill Peecher. I live in Dearborn, MI. I visited New Orleans for Mardi Gras, for the first time in 1952, again in 1957, then in 1983, and have been a regular since about 1986. To avoid confusion, my son, Bill Peecher (III), owns unit 306-9 and is probably sending you a similar request.
Thanks, Bill Peecher

I received an added benefit from maintaining this blog... I hooked up with a teacher from my high school days, more than 30 years after graduation, who is also an owner at Hotel de la Monnaie! It can be a very small world sometimes! Bill Reichert, thanks for contacting me. Hope to see you in New Orleans, or Alabama, soon!
Margaret Meier de Cox

September 18, 2005 Update

[Note: The following is an excerpt from the latest newsletter which should arrive in your mailboxes this week.]

FROM GENERAL MANAGER BILL PRENTISS...

First and most important, the hotel and staff appear to be fine. I have contacted thirteen of our seventeen full-time staff. I have arranged for their last pay checks to be transferred into their banks. At the suggestion of Bill Peecher, an owner, we have set up a new bank account at Whitney Bank in Houston for the Hotel de la Monnaie Relief Fund. (Mr. Peecher thought of a much better heading of "S.O.S." for Save Our Staff. Unfortunately, I had already done the paperwork with Whitney Bank to set up account number 750276169.) Checks should be sent to Whitney National Bank, PO Box 847, Houston, TX 77001-0847. Bank wires can be sent directly to account number 750276169 at Whitney. Please designate payee as Hotel de la Monnaie Relief Fund.

A donation of at least $100 by each owner has been suggested. The fund will be managed and administered by the board, through Whitney Bank, according to need. These funds would be used to get our staff whose homes have been flooded or destroyed back into rental properties (down payments, purchase of new appliances and clothes, etc.). Most of our staff have suffered tremendously during this disaster. It would be wonderful if we could help restart the lives of those who want to return. Needless to say, those who are renters have no insurance to alleviate their losses.

Summary of the Event:

On Saturday, August 27, Mayor Ray Nagin came on the 10 o'clock news to state that category four or five Katrina would, according to the hurricane center in Florida, come almost directly through New Orleans. We could expect 10-23 foot surges of water over the levees in Lake Pontchartrain. New Orleans' worst fears of inundation by water would be realized.

I immediately called each of our staff members and told them we were evacuating the hotel and that they should get out of the city no later than Sunday morning. Although urged to leave, Susan Doucette said she had elderly parents and four other family members and wished to have them stay with her in the hotel as she continued to be available for the remaining guests.

At 6:30 a.m. Sunday I started waking our guests (we had sixteen units still occupied) and matching guests with vehicles with those who had none. By 10 a.m. the garage was empty and all but fourteen persons had left. I had staff member Bill Darby drive my vehicle, carrying a guest family of four, to Birmingham, Alabama. I arranged for four more guests to drive in my wife's car behind me (I was in my daughter-in-law's vehicle) to Jackson, Mississippi and dropped them at the airport before my wife and I drove to Vicksburg where we remained for the next eleven days. Eight guests (four by choice) were left with Susan in the hotel.

We had figured, correctly, that our generator was situated high enough in the garage to keep the hotel in power through the storm. When the levees broke after the storm, the 23 firefighters of Engine #9 (just down the street) that we had billeted in the hotel, told Susan that people were pulling guns on them in the streets and warned that when the criminal element saw the lights burning at HdlM they would shoot their way in and take over the hotel. The firefighters had carried all the lobby furniture to the second floor prior to the storm (part of our deal with Captain Maestri). On Tuesday, at 6 p.m., they gathered the eight remaining guests together with Susan's family and escorted them to Gretna. Susan had three vehicles and took another four guests to Orange, Texas. The other guests were sent out by the firefighters, who then returned to the Quarter. The hotel was left totally empty with no lobby furniture, no electricity, no vehicles - essentially nothing to tempt looters.

My stepson Charles visited the hotel on September 7th and said it was unoccupied and locked up (at least during the day). The firefighters of Engine #9 are keeping an eye on it for us. I spoke with Jackie Clarkson on Sunday night, the 11th. She is the councilperson for Algiers, the French Quarter, Marigny and Bywater areas. She said the military were in charge and were bringing the larger hotels back on stream as quickly as possible to house FEMA and other disaster agency workers indefinitely while the city is cleaned up. Essentially, since visitors won't be allowed in for some time, I asked Jackie to offer accommodations for up to 100 persons at the current government housing allowance rate. They would have to supply us with diesel fuel, food, water and security until our power was back on. I would hold back about five units to house our staff.

The income from this arrangement would be distributed at our usual split, 80% to the owner and 20% to the hotel, for those who were planning to either use their units or rent them this year. I understand that 2005 weeks already deposited and/or exchanged are being honored by both II and RCI, so any revenues from those traded/deposited units would go into the hotel's general operating account. Since it is impossible to predict the rebuilding effort in 2006 and beyond, we are not able to predict what II and RCI will do. We do know that they both will be sending in inspectors at some future date. No decisions can be made until that is done. Meanwhile, we want to assure all owners that the hotel will be maintained in the best possible condition and be ready to resume regular operations when that is possible.

New board member Sandra Dartus-Horwitz, with her extensive New Orleans contacts, was able to give me Jackie Clarkson's private cell phone number as well as the number for the FEMA logistics coordinator with the Army Corps of Engineers. As soon as I can get permission to go back in, I'll do so and organize the property to receive the FEMA personnel. We have plenty of linens and towels and are able to start up our laundry again as necessary. Many of the units had food left in them and it will be a nasty job to get the garbage and odors out.

Staff-wise, Bill Darby is going to Seattle and maintenance man Joseph Doucet has gone to California. Betty Roundtree, Renita Robinson, Clarence Celestine, Lisa Ogletree and Ella Mae Gould want to come back into the city. Susan Doucette, Ron Marinello and Delilah Turner will also be back, as will Michael Griffin and Cherie Lopez. I haven't been able to contact other staff as of this moment.

No one truly can project what will happen to New Orleans in the future. It seems certain that it may be some time before it is a tourist destination again. It also seems certain that the owners of the hotel will not be totally out of pocket financially on their maintenance fees if we can cut a deal with those tasked with fixing up the city. I will do all in my power, with the direction and advice of the board, to protect your investment in the hotel.

Bill

September 9, 2005 Update

Thanks sooooo very much for doing this and keeping us all updated. It is just my itsy bitsy piece of New Orleans but I really love it there. Looking forward to returning when we are able.
Joyce Keeler

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The NY Times had an article that said the Mint was OK except for a break in the roof. Apparently the flooding near us is a ways to the east secondary to a break in the canal directly east of the Monnaie. We've been spared. Is there anyone there to protect our interests? It will be interesting to know how we can apply exchanges already in the works like I have. Anyone heard from our BOD?
Marilyn Langdon

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Hello all. What terrific work you've done! I think it's just fabulous that you've mobilized and been so proactive. This is the kind of spirit HDLM needs and that certainly will bring New Orleans back to its feet!!! I'm sharing this email with Bill and with board members who have email access (Art, can you share with Pat?). We have a meeting via conference call planned for next Wednesday and I'm sure Bill will have more to report to you afterwards.
I'm off to Houston tomorrow to christen my first grandchild and can't wait to see my daughter and family members who've been scattered about after losing their homes. We at Hotel de la Monnaie have been so fortunate. Just as my family needs each other in this time of turmoil, it's so very important that the HDLM family supports each other. Thanks so much for your efforts.
Sandra Dartus-Horwitz

September 8, 2005 Update

Been a Mardi Gras owner since 1980. Would anyone know the whereabouts of Susan who works with the timeshares in the hotel. Her last name escapes me, but I would love to make contact to insure she is ok.
thanks for all your support, Bob
[Susan Doucette]

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All I can tell you is that when they set fire to the wharf, photos came thru and the hotel was visible and unscathed by fire or flood. Now, whether or not we were looted, I have no idea???
Rich

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I did hear on the news that the 82nd Airborne is headquartered in the Quarter. This should keep looting under control. Having been coming to NO every year since 1959 I have seen many changes. So much has been done in the Quarter to make it a better place and getting better all the time. This is such a unique city that is a treasure trove of history. We all grieve for the people who have had such a hard time and really can not comprehend the magnitude of it without being on site.
The welfare of our staff is a big concern for me and hope to have some word of them soon. If Ruby is contacted please ask her about Hannah if she is still living. Any word is appreciated.
Dixie Thompson

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All I can tell you is that when they set fire to the wharf, photos came thru and the hotel was visible and unscathed by fire or flood. Now, whether or not we were looted, I have no idea???
Rich

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Folks if all I lost in this is 1/52 of a one bedroom apartment
parole dehors fort, merci dieu!
hwc2

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Enclosed is a word document that includes an image obtained from the following link. [The link below contains an aerial photo of the quarter the shows the hotel clearly. It is a large file. You can view it here: DOCUMENT or go to the original link here: [http://www.digitalglobe.com/images/katrina/new_orleans_dwtn_aug31_05_dg.jpg]
John Fillebaum - (If you have not smiled today, think about that breath you just took. Now that is something to smile about.)

September 6, 2005 Update

Thank you so much for passing this information on.
Please keep me posted on anything new.
We were planning a visit there in November but that seems to be out of the picture now.
Will the Hotel receive any insurance reimbursement or Federal funds for damages caused by the hurricane?
Calvin

September 5, 2005 Update

A Message from Board Member Sandra Dartus-Horwitz

Hello everyone. My husband and I were in Canada when the horrible hurricane hit but we stayed in close contact with our family and friends who were forced to evacuate the city. I also spoke with Bill Prentiss and have communicated with several of the HDLM board members. Bill and his staff got the guests out of the hotel and secured the building before leaving. Bill feels confident that the strong metal gates would have protected the property from looting. From all reports I rec'd from friends in the French Quarter and other in Marigny (approx 2 blocks behind HDLM), there was no water in the area. Of course, as mentioned below, there may have been some wind damage.

Bill feels that we are an excellent position to open for business once the city comes back, but that may be some time. Obviously, we won't be the destination of choice for tourists and facilities city-wide will be limited.
So many of my family and friends have lost their homes, which will be under water for 20-60 days, according to estimates, and our employees may be similarly affected. Even if HDLM could become a retreat for insurance adjusters, if the local folks can't move back (primarily our staff), the ability to operate will be hampered. But, we are still better off than the Hyatt, Sheraton, W, and so many of the properties we've seen on TV.

Right now, we can just continue praying for everyone and hope that gov't officials move more quickly than they have to help get us back on our feet.

Bill is doing a lot of behind the scenes work now to handle our banking and financial matters. We're trying to determine the best way of communicating with owners, but want to make sure we are accurate in what we report, so this may take some time. I know that Bill and my fellow board members appreciate your concerns and good wishes. As owners, we share a vested interest in the future of Hotel de la Monnaie and I know we all hope for the very best for our staff and the city we love.

Sandra Dartus-Horwitz

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Have not had the intestinal fortitude to call them in the midst of all the trouble. I expect no one would answer, anyway. Will try to get in touch with them later this week. If you hear anything, please let me know.
I have every confidence the City will come back, but it may take several years.
Meanwhile, we pray for everyone there.
Norman Gutlove
ngutlove@yahoo.com

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Thanks so much for sending the info you have. Have been watching the TV trying to find out something about our Hotel. We were scheduled to go in October but of course that is out. From what I could determine it seemed that the Quarter stayed dry mostly but I was worried about looting. Maybe it has been spared. New has not said anything about any looting in the Quarter which i would have thought would be the first to go. I did hear one report that the A & P had been looted. I find it strange that there has been no shots of Jackson Square or the church to try to show the location of things. Of course there was the picture in the paper of the courtyard behind the church showing the trees down that just missed the statue of Jesus there. only broke a finger or two. What a blessing. I really appreciate the news you have sent and if you have further news please let me know.
Here's a link to an article that talks about some of the French Quarter landmarks and other areas. Not allot of detail, but sounds encouraging. John http://music.msn.com/music/article.aspx?news=200558
Dixie Thompson

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To John n Riechard:
John I'm with you. I would so like to go to help. I live in Vermont.....Let me know if this transpires
Emily Hennessey 203/18

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We are from Carlisle, PA, and our local paper, "The Sentinel", had an article on New Orleans that said the French Quarter got by without too much damage. It named monuments that were standing such as the cathedral, Cafe du Monde, and our neighbor, the US Mint. The garden District had very high winds and a lot of fallen trees. I was able to send a contribution through AOL and local churches here are preparing bags of personal items - hand towel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, combs, etc. We wish empty hotels and time shares could be of help to people now who cannot go back to their homes.
Joan Markovich

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Thanks so much for the updates. Keep me informed. Have you heard anything more from the actual staff? If anyone needs help and puts together a financial fund to help our staff specifically, let all of us know. I can't help with a lot but I am sure everyone would help at least as much as they can.
Joyce Keeler

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I saw a video taken from a news helicopter two days ago as it passed our property. To my surprise, it looked as if it had hardly been touched. Of course it could be a much different story up close.

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Thanks so much for your e-mail. I guess we are all just waiting to hear something. Like many, I heard that the hotel did not get the flooding, but most likely wind damage.
I did hear on the news that they heard gun shots in the French Quarter........ ? Looting a possibility.
My heart goes out to the local's. One cannot imagine what it must be like. God Bless them one and all. My prayers are with them.
Emily

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From satellite images and news comments...I am GUESSING that the building survived but in what condition is anyone's guess...I have e-mailed some friends and maybe will know more later...
Richard

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I would like to suggest that when we find out the hotel's condition and hopefully find it somewhat habitable, that owners, who could spend the time and money to volunteer with some local organization , could come down and do so. We need to pay back the beautiful people of New Orleans who have given us so much pleasure and love.
John Reichard .NY

September 4, 2005 Update

Most of my messages came back as undeliverable, probably due to power and communications problems, but I'm forwarding some of the replies I received. You may piece this information together on your own, but for the moment, it looks like Hotel de la Monnaie came through the hurricane and missed the flooding. This is not officially confirmed and really seems quite minor compared to what many of the city's residents are facing.

We think we saw an aerial photo of the hotel (it was near one of the warehouse fires) and it looked dry.

Regards,

Margaret Meier de Cox

-------------------------------------------------------

Good question Margaret and thanks for asking, obviously I've been wondering as well. I did read that the roof of the Mint across the street blew off.
Ed Manley

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Caught a shot of Jackson Square and Cafe Du Monde. They both looked intact, including the awning over the patio. Cameras did not show past the Cafe. Unless looting got to it, I suspect the hotel is ok.
S H

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I don't but I heard from Marisol (next door) that they were spared and hope to serve meals to survivors and rescuers.
Earl Douglas

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We would love to hear should you hear anything. We have not seen, nor heard anything. No news is usually good news.
Please let us hear from you should you hear anything.
Thanks,
Janie LeBlanc

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I don't know anything officially BUT I did see the hotel on TV when they were filming the fires on the docks down the river from us. So it is at least standing. My other understanding, and it seems borne out by the pictures I did see, is that there was no flooding (other than a few inches) in the French Quarter. My guess is that the worst might be some roof damage??? And some windows blown out????
Should you hear anything I would appreciate your letting me know. I am sure it is going to be awhile before we will be allowed to use our weeks( and I was really looking forward to our trip this year (Oct. 14) but hopefully by next year at this time they will be well on the road to recovery.
The damage and disruption of peoples lives is almost incomprehensible. God Bless the people of the Gulf Coast Jim Rhyan(209/41) Web Site: http://cowboy22.0catch.com "To love another person is to see the face of God"
"Look for God in everyone you meet."

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NO have not heard anything and we were supposed to have checked in yesterday , but knowing what is going on in N.O.
we decided to stay at home in Houston. If anyone hears let me know .......
Walter Broussard

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Thanks for asking...we live in Michigan, and have not heard anything concerning Hotel de la Monnaie. According to our news, the French Quarters did not receive the wind damage & flooding like the other area.
Jerry & Joanne Carnill

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I assume that all owners will be notified when something is
known. What a tragedy. If New Orleans is ever the same,
it will take years. God Bless the residents of one of the
truly international and unique cities of the world.
Don Haragan

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I have heard nothing about the hotel. I have been in contact with someone who has 2 cell phone numbers, but cannot get through.
Emily Hennessey

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when you find out would you send out a mass email please?
Thank you

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I have tried to call and e-mail, no luck. As I understand, that end of the quarter was almost dry. Who knows?
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Haven't heard anything at this point. Please let me know if you have any updates.
Thanks,
S. Musso

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NO BUT HOPEFULLY THE STAFF IS SAFE
GOD BLESS THE WHOLE GULF COAST
WARREN GILBERT

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Unfortunately, I have heard nothing on the status regarding our units at Hotel de la Monnaie.
Please keep contact with me if you should hear anything, and I will save your address to contact you, should I hear anything.
Thanks for your contact and concern.
God Bless us all,
John & Diane Camara

Damage


		405 Esplanade Ave New Orleans, LA 70116 Voice: (504) 947-0009 Fax: (504) 945-6841

Archive - Hotel de la Monnaie Owners Web Log 2005

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September 8, 2005 Update

September 6, 2005 Update

September 5, 2005 Update

September 4, 2005 Update