New Orleans is a rather poor city. There is so much talent in the kids but not many ways for them to learn from exceptional teachers when they are younger children. We start with kids ages 8 and 9.Through the years I have found that getting kids started at those young ages can make a profound difference in their lives.

The kids really need this now more than ever. They are living in conditions you would not believe. Two, three or four families under one roof. Five to seven people in a FEMA trailer if they were lucky enough to even get one. Or they are living on the second floor of their flooded out home. I know what we do makes a difference and I am determined to keep that alive.

Seeing the kids perform will be very healing. After this show, we'd like to do something to let the kids tell their stories from their perspective. No one from New Orleans will ever be the same.

Our goal heading into the season is going to state. We have the numbers and talent back this year to make that happen.

I think you'll be amazed by the spark that our young talent is going to bring.

I think you'll be amazed by the spark that our young talent is going to bring. We've got a group with great veteran leadership, but the new players have energized everybody. We're getting better every week we play together.