In the wake of Hurricane Katrina we find ourselves in a serious bind. This is a massive ecological and human disaster, and seeing the coverage of the aftermath tears the heart. Of course, some people have tried to politicize even this tragedy in the framing of the horrible tsunami that devastated the countries surrounding the Indian Ocean. I've read and heard the words, "who is going to send us aid?" A statement that is asinine in itself, our nation being the richest in the world. We don't need aid like third world countries do, and to assume that there should be some type of reciprocity because we chipped in 10 million dollars is not only selfish, but absolutely ridiculous. That being said, I would also like to add that to those asshats who would say it, with much joy and smugness I would like to say yes, someone has volunteered.

Hugo Chavez, the recently targeted leader of Venezuela, a man who is openly critical of US policy, a man who received no help from the US in an attempted coup (rumors point to the matter that the US actually encouraged the coup, but that’s basically telling tales out of school) has offered food, water and even fuel to the US. Maybe it is political posturing, but as offers go, this is quite generous especially from a “strong-arm dictator” (thanks for the term, PR!) such as Chavez.

So what was the official response from the Bush admin? Well, there doesn’t seem to be one except The (P)resident will be going into our reserves versus acknowledging the offer I guess. Of course that is an assumption, but I think it’s a safe bet that nothing is going to be said about the offer. So it goes. For the time being, I’m a fan of Mr. Chavez.