Dear Mr. Owen,

I am writing to ask that you consider finding other alternatives to complete and maintain the new pumping station, other than closing the Coconut Beach volleyball complex. For myself and many others like me, Coconut Beach provided an affordable outlet for not only entertainment, but a good physical workout as well. Within a few short weeks of being in the league, it also became an important social setting, and may friendships have been formed over the years that still endure today. Like most other attractions in New Orleans, Coconut Beach provided a unique setting where people can forget about the daily hassles of life, and become the star of the team, or at least the star in their own mind. Some players are more serious than others, yet everyone I have met over the years makes the commitment to their team, and the weekly game schedule becomes a priority in your life. You have a sense of belonging that you don't find in many other settings. Its a chance to become young again, to be a part of the team, and it's as big a part of New Orleans as Jazz Fest is to me. I'm not sure what year I began playing volleyball out at Coconut Beach, but I know it was in the late 80's or early 90's. I know for sure 1993, because just as I cherish my Jazz Fest T shirts, I also cherish my Best of the Net Coconut Beach T shirts, and still have them all, the first being in 1993. My children spent many a night watching me play, and today, one of them has continued the tradition on his own team. And this year, as a special treat, I am once again playing at age 51, and have the opportunity to do so on a team with my stepdaughter. Coconut Beach has meant more to me over the years than any simple sports complex. I cannot fully explain the joy this simple activity has brought into my life, and now, as it has been for many other families, it is also a family gathering to me, New Orleans style. I realize the importance of the pumping station, and the role it plays in providing safety to the citizens of New Orleans. But the very things that make New Orleans unique, and cause us all to fight to preserve this city are made up of experiences such as a lifetime of nights at Coconut Beach. Without these special traditions, the city becomes just another place to live.

Steve Ecuyer

Thanks for the letter and PLEASE keep your emails and phone calls coming. Read below....

Senator David R. Heitmeier, O.D., Chairman
Telephone: (225) 342-2114

Senator Heitmeier is introducing a resolution to the Louisiana State Senate
requesting that the corps¹ pumping station plans do not require confiscation
of the land that Coconut Beach occupies.

Please send your letters to Chris Adams, Senator Heitmeiers Deputy
Assistant. Send letters to: "Adams, Christopher" Email: adamsc@legis.state.la.us