Ocean Springs Resident Experiences Hurricane with a Twist
Release Date: March 16, 2006
Release Number: 1604-287
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BILOXI, Miss. -- Marian Wingo, a long-time resident of the historic downtown neighborhood in "old" Ocean Springs, Mississippi, operates "Oak Shade", the first B&B to open in the seaside community, with her partner Chris Vinsonhaler. In Hurricane Katrina's aftermath, the inn became a shelter and haven for many neighbors who lost everything.
When Marian's neighbors found more suitable long-term shelter, she responded to an onslaught of lodging requests from a new source: recovery workers. Workers have enjoyed the restorative qualities of the quiet neighborhood that is home to Oak Shade. Marian's home and the B&B share a common geography and both were spared Katrina's wrath. The elevation of her plot of land and the flat roofs of her buildings are only partially responsible for this good fortune. Two weeks before Katrina hit, Marian installed "Florida-grade" corrugated steel hurricane shutters on all 15 windows on her property. She had ordered them in June of 2005 at a cost of $4,500. Marian feels it's the best investment she has ever made.
After the storm, Connie Moran, the mayor of Ocean Springs, encouraged Marian to interview for the position of coordinator for the city's Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Though she had a full list of active clients for her consulting, counseling and mediation work, she was willing to put most of them on hold to accept the EOC job, enabling her to help her community recover. Once the city hired a permanent coordinator, Marian moved on to FEMA as a local hire, working as a member of the Voluntary Agency Liaison coordination unit. The cadre helps facilitate recovery partnerships among volunteer groups in Katrina affected counties. Marian already knew many of the folks involved from her years of community service.
Marian Wingo is accustomed to a fairly hectic schedule, but her post-Katrina work load is much more demanding. Still, she has continued to make time to write "We are Family", the weekly column she has been creating for the Ocean Springs Record for the last six years. She still makes a valiant effort to continue to walk three miles a day, at dawn, and she refuses to give up sailing, even if she must limit herself to full-moon voyages. Marian also finds time for plenty of Scrabble games with her Dad, who, at 87, frequently prevails.
Unlike many of her neighbors on the Coast, Marian has gained in the aftermath of Katrina. New employment opportunities have provided additional income and her B&B business has been constant, with a waiting list. Marian is mindful of her good fortune and very grateful. This twist of fate is allowing Marian to contribute to her community in new and challenging ways.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Thursday, 16-Mar-2006 09:43:06