Blanco offers Louisiana's thanks

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco Saturday thanked the people who helped her state in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

"Your generosity and support renews our faith in God and in the human spirit," Blanco said during the Democratic Party's weekly radio address. The governor listed military, local emergency responders and other citizens who reacted during Hurricane Katrina to help save people.

"They gave no thought to their own safety -- only to help and to serve," Blanco said.

Almost three weeks ago, Hurricane Katrina reached shore at the U.S. Gulf Coast and ravaged the region, causing hundreds of deaths and tens of billions in damage.

"I offer our profound thanks, to all of you who opened your homes, your hospitals, your classrooms, your churches, your wallets and your hearts to our people," Blanco said. "As long as the Mississippi River flows into the gulf, we will never forget your generosity."

Blanco made a point to thank President Bush, seeking to end partisan blame-throwing that has marred the recovery.

"Some issues reach beyond party," she said. "In the face of the human tragedy, which lies behind us, and the task that lies ahead of us, there is no room for partisan politics."