Come Hell or High Water Response

        Derrick Evans is a committed individual who is passionate about the welfare of his home, Turkey Creek, Mississippi.  A historic black community with beautiful nature founded by his great-grandfather's grandfather during Reconstruction, it now lies in the middle of the economically expanding city of Gulfport, Mississippi.  Both Mississippi's governor and Gulfport's mayor are determined to bolster the city's economic potential by expanding into Gulfport, and Derrick is determined to preserve the close-knit community.  His passion is shown in the ardent pursuit of his goals-- attending numerous meetings, building, rebuilding after natural disaster, and his emotional ties to the issue.  But it is also shown in what he gives up to pursue the preservation of his small community-- a comfortable teaching job in Boston, apartment living, and even any sort of wages.  His mother says it all: her boy had been working hard for over five years without any wages.