First off, thank you to everyone who has signed and supported this petition so far. We’re at 79 signatures, and while that might not sound like much to outsiders, to me it represents real voices from home who care about Plaquemines Parish. Every single name matters. I want to be transparent about where we are. My recent application for funding through the VA’s VR&E program was denied — but that’s just one route. I’m not stopping. I’m pursuing other grants, partnerships, and funding opportunities because I believe in this project too much to quit. The Plaquemines Plan is about more than money. It’s about restoring land, protecting against hurricanes and flooding, and creating real opportunities for local people — whether that’s through rebuilding marshes, farming oysters and crabs, or building the kind of jobs that make families want to stay and come back home. This petition helps me show decision-makers that the community is paying attention. Every signature makes it harder for them to ignore us. If you’ve already signed, I’m asking you to share it with one other person today. Just one. That’s how we keep momentum. Thank you again — this is only the beginning. — Brock