Author: Stephen Taylor

Today, the blogosphere is already full of pleas for relief for the victims of hurricane Katrina. I’ve added the websites of the top relief organizations involved in providing assistance, shelter, medicine and food to the people of the Gulf coast states to the top right of the Blogging Tories website. Please consider donating what you can, no donation is too small.

Here is the information, please consider adding it to your blog:
Canadian Red Cross – (800) 418-1111
American Red Cross – (800) 435-7669
Salvation Army – (800) 725-2769
United Way – (800) 272-4630
Operation Blessing – (800) 730-2537
World Vision
America’s Second Harvest

Perhaps realizing that issuing a form letter statement from a government department might be a little cold, Paul Martin finally issued a statement from the PMO this afternoon (5:45pm).

“Like all Canadians, I am distressed by the destruction and loss of life wrought by Hurricane Katrina. On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, I offer our sincere condolences to the American people. During this most difficult time, Canada stands with you, and we are ready to provide whatever support you may require in the days, weeks and months ahead.

“Even before the enormity of the devastation became clear, I asked Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan to lead the Government of Canada’s response to any requests for assistance. We are continuing to monitor the situation closely. I know that she and a number of her Cabinet colleagues have been in touch with their American counterparts and have begun to determine what assistance Canada can offer. We have made it clear that we are prepared to offer any and all possible assistance, and we will continue to work closely with our neighbours as they deal with this terrible event.”

Doesn’t the last paragraph leave you with the sense that felt that it was necessary to explain his lack of a response before now?

Better late than never…

Here’s some press bias for your Wednesday afternoon. Let’s compare two similar situations.

(h/t)

That bread’s going to go bad anyways and these people will likely need it. Both are looting, yet justifiable in this dire situation. Perhaps some clarification is necessary.

For example, your family can’t eat that looted television:

This is the looting that the press is looking for: