(Alternate title, "The Politics of Human Suffering")

I'm glad to note after yesterday's post, that military and expanded National Guard presence is now in the area. Helicopters are also all over the place doing what they can. Nut-jobs in the area, though, are screwing things up for everyone by firing upon helicopters and otherwise attacking those trying to help. There are reports of rescue-boats being tipped over, and there is apparently news footage of NOPD officers (in uniform no less) looting stores– not just for food and water, which they're supposed to be getting so that they can help people, but tape of officers carting away new computers and flat-screen TVs. As a co-worker pointed out to me, "this isn't a natural disaster; the disaster here is the lack of preparation and planning."

Some quick notes:

Over at Wonkette.com, they got a message from someone at the EPA, about how (and why) locals have taken to referring to the NOLA flood waters as "Lake George".

Apparently, not enough gub'mint money has made it to "faith-based initiatives", because FEMA is directing donations to Rev. Pat Robertson. Yes, Pat "we should take him out" Robertson. Note that the link this page points to no longer has the charity list on it. From that page, click on "Volunteer or Make a Donation". Also, "Operation Blessing" seems to have moved from the no. 2 spot to no. 3.

It seems that Canada has not only offered aid, but very specialized and highly-relevant aid. It also seems that the Dept. of Homeland Security doesn't want them shifty Canucks crossin' our borders. I hope that one proves to be a misunderstanding.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch (well, to be fair, he left Crawford two days ago, only three days after all this started), it's business as usual for the RNC:

Can't let a little thing like a hurricane get in the way of tax-relief. After all, Condi needs her some new shoes:

Yee-haw!