Where is Nagin?

According to an article in the Times Picayune on Saturday, Nov. 26, Nagin has not only been absent, but he was also being allusive as to where he was going.

He wasn't on hand Nov. 18 when a panel of more than 50 specialists in urban and post-disaster planning from the Urban Land Institute released the most comprehensive recovery plan yet proposed for his hurricane-ravaged city.

Nagin's office said last week that he was in Washington meeting with federal officials about help for the city. But it turned out that starting Nov. 18, he was on vacation in Jamaica, taking what spokeswoman Sally Forman said this week was some "much-needed" time with his family after weeks of separation and intense stress. He was due to return Friday.

I’m sure Nagin needed some time with his family, and you can’t ask some to work for 3 months nonstop. But you would think that some time at home would do the job. I’m sure the people of New Orleans don’t appreciate their mayor going to a tropical island to get some much needed r-n-r. But never fear Nagin gives another reason for being in Jamaica. Economic reasons.

The paper said that after his arrival, Nagin told reporters in Montego Bay that New Orleans hopes to strengthen its economic ties with Jamaica. The mayor was quoted as saying that the city and the Caribbean island "both have unique characters, unique styles, wonderful food." At the time Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, Nagin said, planning was under way for a November festival in Jamaica designed to strengthen its ties with New Orleans.

There’s a reason for every thing Nagin does or offers.
Nagin: The Jamaican newspaper is asking me why I’m in Jamaica…? Uhhh…I want to have Jamaica be part of the new New Orleans so I think we shall have a festival. Yes. That’s it. That was my plan all along…even before Katrina.

Every time I read something new about Nagin I feel like I’m taking crazy pills. I really hope that he doesn’t have a huge role in the rebuilding process.