On Monday, nine-time Grammy Award winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis held a press conference at New York City’s Chelsea Market to announce plans for a live television special to take place in New Orleans on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.
“Millions of Americans, and, indeed, millions more around the world watched with horror as events unfolded in the wake of Hurricane Katrina,” Marsalis said. “A year later on August 29, we are convinced that as people see the stories of those who have reclaimed their lives they will watch with pride and resolve to help get the job finished.”
Titled ‘New Orleans: Rebuilding the Soul of America…One Year Later,’ the special will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and will be helmed by top TV special producers John Cossette (Grammy Awards) and Don Mischer (Olympics Opening/Closing Ceremonies). As the platinum sponsor for the special, Harrah’s New Orleans Casino earmarked $1.5 million to provide financial and logistical support.
