I agree with all of you, but here's something to think about. Up until 2004 the USAG and USOC would pay for at least 2 members of the family to go to the olympics (hotel, air and tickets). In 2004 they only paid for certain things, I believe it was only tickets to the events. Most of these families were just (in the last month) told that they would have to pay for this on their own and no help will be given. They MAY or MAYNOT get tickets from the USOC and that depends entirely on China. So now the parents have to figure this out.
I agree in saying why start not when she is not on the team. Why not wait until she is officially announced on the team. Why, because the girls team is not officialy choosen until July 20th (they leave for China the next day). That would leave the parents about 3 weeks to get the money needed to go, visa's, travel arrangements, it just wouldn't happen. Do I agree that all 6 of them need to go, no I don't. As bad as it sounds, I know her sister and brother and extended family have all helped out and scaraficed for this, but should they ask for money above and beyond mom and dad and maybe her older sister no. I don't think they should.
That all being said, I just found out that the USAG will only allow one personal coach to go to China. Shayla has two. More than likely Orlando Metro will have to come up with the money to send her female coach as well ( I believe her name is Christina). I don't know if they have prepared ahead of time, but that is something to think of as well. That each gymnast can only bring (USAG will only pay for) one personal coach, and most of these girls have two. Its just a big mess.
My thought is that the USOC should pay for 2 people to accompany any olympian (meaning parents, grandparents, etc). That should cover hotel, air, transprotation, tickets, etc). The USOC has the money to do so, but will not be spending it on the people it should, THE ATHLETES.
Oh and to end my rant, Shayla is pretty much a lock. That is unless she gets injured. I really don't see her being left off the team. Go Shayla!