Not much more can be said about Katrina–the human disaster, the Administration’s complicity in the disaster by cutting funds for precisely the kind of preparation that might have saved New Orleans and the insufficient response by the feds once the hurricane was hurtling towards the area (can’t interrupt the president’s vacation now, can we?).

I think, like everyone, it’s hard to absorb the staggering devastation–but I also thought: this is what happens all the time in other parts of the world where the infrastructure of society is much weaker than in the richer U.S.

My friend Wade Rathke, who lives down in New Orleans where he runs ACORN (he’s safe), passes along this place to donate money to help rebuild the communities in New Orleans. Do what you can.

Casey O’Shea, the chief of staff of Rep. Charlie Melancon (LA-3), dropped me a note saying “We need buses with drivers, doctors, money, law enforcement professionals, and volunteers for shelters.” If you can lend a hand there, you can give his office a shout at 202-225-4031