“I Was A Friend Of Hugo Chavez.” A Classmate Remembers A Latin America President

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Credit Cuentos del Arañero

Before joining the military, Chavez dreamed of becoming a major league pitcher.

Rafael Simón Jiménez was a high school friend of Venezuela President Hugo Chavez, who died this week. As the country mourns, Dick speaks with him about what the leader was like as a young man and young politician. Rafael Simón Jiménez was part of the Chavez administration until they had a break over political ideals. He says Chavez loved baseball, but learned politics.

To hear the audio for this interview, visit The Story's website. Also in this show: the story of William Walker, an American who invaded Nicaragua; a musical trip to Brazil, Argentina and France; and a photo journey to Staten Island.