My last trip to New Orleans was for the fifth anniversary of Katrina and I had the awesome opportunity to bring my family down. We all worked on a house together and met some of the families.

So while an incredible amount of progress has been made on this fifth anniversary I wanted to come here and tell the people of this city directly: My administration is going to stand with you - and fight alongside you - until the job is done. Until New Orleans is all the way back all the way.

New Orleans in an amazing town.

The Madden NFL franchise holds a special place in popular culture and the cover is a coveted position for players all over the league. I'm honored to be the first cover athlete chosen by Madden NFL fans and it's a great way to cap off an amazing year for the Saints and the city of New Orleans.

I think the idea that you can go this alone is - was a huge mistake. And unfortunately there was a price paid in terms of suffering and pain for people in New Orleans.