There's enough blame to go around.

Apparently, local and state officials did not properly follow the stated evacuation plan prior to the storm. For that, they too are to blame for the consequent devastation and loss of lives. But, FEMA's assertion that Governor Blanco did not "submit a request for help in a timely manner" is preposterous and infuriating (it's also a giant lie). Even so, bureaucratic oversight is not an acceptable excuse for not sending help when it so obviously and desperately needed. FEMA director Michael Brown must be fired NOW; his incompetence threatens us all.

Rick Moran's useful timeline.

A nice prayer sent to me for those of you so inclined:
"Lord, hold the people of New Orleans in your loving hands. Protect them in their time of need and bring an end to their suffering. Bless them and their families. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen."