This AP report on the state dinner crashers raises so many questions. My top one: how did we turn into a society where getting onto a "reality TV show" is a legitimate goal?
White House: State dinner crashers met Obama
WASHINGTON - This time, the picture is the story. After the Secret Service insisted that President Barack Obama was never endangered by a security breach that allowed a couple to crash his first state dinner, the White House has released a photo showing that not only did the pair get close to Obama, they actually shook hands and talked to him. As the White House was disclosing that the Virginia couple, Michaele and Tareq Salahi, met Obama in the receiving line, a "deeply concerned and embarrassed" Secret Service on Friday acknowledged that its officers never checked whether the two were on the guest list before letting them onto the White House grounds. The White House released a photo showing the Salahis in the receiving line in the Blue Room with Obama and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in whose honor the dinner was held. Obama and reality TV hopeful Michaele Salahi are smiling as she grasps his right hand with both of hers and her husband looks on. Singh is standing to Obama's left. The Secret Service earlier this week had said the president was not in danger because the couple - like others at the dinner - had gone through magnetometers. But in light of their close proximity to the president, no such claim was made Friday. The Salahis were not on the guest list and should have been barred from entering last Tuesday's dinner on the White House South Lawn for the prime minister of India, said Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan. Sullivan said the agency that protects the president is "deeply concerned and embarrassed" that procedures were not followed. "As our investigation continues, appropriate measures have been taken to ensure this is not repeated," Sullivan said in a written statement. "The preliminary findings of our internal investigation have determined established protocols were not followed at an initial checkpoint, verifying that two individuals were on the guest list," Sullivan said. "Although these individuals went through magnetometers and other levels of screening, they should have been prohibited from entering the event entirely. That failing is ours." Secret Service spokesman Jim Mackin said officers at the checkpoint had a clipboard with names of the invited guests. Even though the Salahis names weren't on it, they were allowed to proceed. The officers should have called someone on the White House staff or Secret Service personnel before allowing them past the checkpoint, Mackin said. Earlier, Mackin said the Secret Service may pursue a criminal investigation of the Salahis. Sullivan said it wasn't good enough that his agency screened more than 1.2 million visitors last year to the White House complex and protected more than 10,000 sites for the president, vice president and others. "Even with these successes, we need to be right 100 percent of the time," he said. It is unclear what the couple told officers at the checkpoint that allowed them to go through the security screening. Federal law makes it a crime to knowingly and willfully falsify statements on matters within the federal government's jurisdiction. "As this moves closer to a criminal investigation there's less that we can say," Mackin said. "We're not leaving any option off the table at this point." White House spokesman Nick Shapiro said the Secret Service will take appropriate action once the review is completed. "The men and women of the Secret Service put their lives on the line everyday to protect us. They are heroes and they have the full confidence of the president of the United States," Shapiro said. The Salahis lawyer, Paul Gardner, posted a comment on their Facebook page saying, "My clients were cleared by the White House, to be there." He said more information would be forthcoming. Several messages left at Gardner's law firm on Friday were not returned. Bravo Media has confirmed that Michaele Salahi is being considered as a participant in the upcoming "The Real Housewives of D.C." program and on the day of the dinner was being filmed by Half Yard Productions, the producer of the program. "Half Yard Productions was told by Michaele and Tareq Salahi that they had been invited to the State Dinner. We took them at their word and filmed their preparations for the event. Half Yard Productions had no part in planning their presence at the event," said Abby Greensfelder of Half Yard Productions. Photos on the couple's Facebook page they previously had gotten close to Obama. One photo, apparently taken in the days before Obama took the oath of office, shows the Salahis in a group shot with Obama and some of the musicians who performed at an inaugural concert. Other photos show the Salahis in the empty, glass-enclosed box from which the Obamas watched the concert and, according to the caption, "backstage with the Secret Service at the Lincoln Memorial during the Presidential Inauguration." ---- Associated Press writer Darlene Superville contributed to this report.
By LARRY MARGASAK Associated Press Writer
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Saturday, November 28, 2009
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Wednesday, November 18, 2009
The restaurant cheese plate crisis
With the increasing supply of artisan cheeses throughout the United States, one might wonder why any restaurant presents anything but a carefully selected, thoughtfully plated cheese selection. Regretfully, cheese wizards from coast to coast are finding artistry sadly lacking in too many cheese plate production lines. For more, check out my post at WineAndFoodWorld.com.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Sustainable fishing advocates aiming to curb bycatch kills
In yet another example of how industrial fishing operations endanger the future of fish, the waters of the Pacific now are dotted with man-made "reefs" known as "FADs" or "fish aggregating devices." Created as a response to calls for "Dolphin-safe tuna," these FADs appear to be doing far more harm than good.
For details and to follow Casson Trenor's reporting from a Greenpeace vessel over the next several weeks, go to http://www.sustainablesushi.net/2009/11/05/skipjack-seiners-and-the-sea/. His blog on keeping the supply of fish safe is well worth following at other times, too.
New Yorker cartoon pokes fun at foodies
Yes, even I chuckled at this one: http://www.newyorker.com/humor/issuecartoons/2009/11/23/cartoons_20091116?slide=7#showHeader
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Sunday, November 15, 2009
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Saturday, October 31, 2009
Another signal to run the other way:
Just overheard fellow cruiser, a woman maybe in the 200-pound range, telling someone on the phone, "I'm just about to get my bikini on." Maybe she was kidding? I suppose I have no right to care if that's what makes her comfortable. But this is definitely a time when my distance glasses are best left behind. Just be assured that I will not be putting on anything like a Speedo or bikini myself.
Another signal to run the other way:
Just overheard fellow cruiser, a woman maybe in the 200-pound range, telling someone on the phone, "I'm just about to get my bikini on." Maybe she was kidding? I suppose I have no right to care if that's what makes her comfortable. But this is definitely a time when my distance glasses are best left behind. Just be assured that I will not be putting on anything like a Speedo or bikini myself.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
An observation about Americans
As I travel south of the US border on a cruise ship filled mostly with older, retired folks, a few things stand out to me. The top one is that there are a lot of Americans who are unhappy, who seem to find fault in just about any situation. I have heard people complain that a tour guide in Acapulco had a Mexican accent. What did they expect, French? Or the people who don't want to pay their dinner waiter a $2 gratuity after 90 minutes of personal attention. Maybe I was raised differently, but I am absolutely soaking up the cultural differences and thriving on what I am seeing that is new to me. Was I disappointed that my stateroom attendant didn't respond to a request within seconds? Sure. Does it matter? Not one bit. I wish some of my fellow travelers had more of my perspective. To be fair, many of them do, and many people here are remarkable in their own ways. But the loudmouth complainers are the ones who give credence to our reputation abroad. I hope we can change this.
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Organic baby food recall
KCBS 740AM/106.9FM (@KCBSNews):10/19/09 10:15 PM
Plum Organics Baby Food Recall http://easyuri.com/38dd6
Sunday, October 18, 2009
If balloon boy was a hoax, why is it still dominating news?
CBS Radio just led hourly newscast with two angles on balloon boy, then went on to health care and Afghanistan. CNN has been almost walk- to-wall on balloon boy, of course playing up the sheriff's comment that the family's interview with Wolf Blitzer was the first big indication that the family was faking it. Yes, give Blitzer credit for the probing questions that prompted Falcon to say he hid from people calling his name because his parents told him it was "for the show." But isn't it enough already? These people have used up their 15 minutes of fame. Sent from my iPhone
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Why is the media obsessed with the baloon boy hoax?
I think the most remarkable -- and disturbing -- things about this "balloon boy" crap is how many AP journalists names are listed as contributing to the coverage. Wonder how many are assigned to health care or other stories that actually have an impact on people.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Japan chef creates Obama sushi
Click on the link to see pictures that are almost as remarkable as the Chia Obama. Monday, October 12, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
California govt needs reform
I hope that people pay attention to these comments from California's chief justice about the importance of fixing California's constitution. Our government has become incapable of governing. The prospects of organizing a constitutional convention are daunting but need to be done. Read more: http://bit.ly/isySX.
Get Off Obama's Back ...second thoughts from Michael Moore
More from @Mmflint Michael MooreSent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: "Michael Moore" <maillist@michaelmoore.com>
Date: October 10, 2009 2:53:17 PM PDT
To: dlevy@nasw.org
Subject: Get Off Obama's Back ...second thoughts from Michael Moore
Reply-To: maillist@michaelmoore.com
Get Off Obama's Back ...second thoughts from Michael Moore
Saturday, October 10th, 2009
Friends,
Last night my wife asked me if I thought I was a little too hard on Obama in my letter yesterday congratulating him on his Nobel Prize. "No, I don't think so," I replied. I thought it was important to remind him he's now conducting the two wars he's inherited. "Yeah," she said, "but to tell him, 'Now earn it!'? Give the guy a break -- this is a great day for him and for all of us."
I went back and re-read what I had written. And I listened for far too long yesterday to the right wing hate machine who did what they could to crap all over Barack's big day. Did I -- and others on the left -- do the same?
We are weary, weary of war. The trillions that will have gone to these two wars have helped to bankrupt us as a nation -- financially and morally. To think of all the good we could have done with all that money! Two months of the War in Iraq would pay for all the wells that need to be dug in the Third World for drinking water! Obama is moving too slow for most of us -- but he needs to know we are with him and we stand beside him as he attempts to turn eight years of sheer madness around. Who could do that in nine months? Superman? Thor? Mitch McConnell?
Instead of waiting to see what the president is going to do, we all need to be pro-active and push the agenda that we want to see enacted. What keeps us from forming the same local groups we put together to get out the vote last November? C'mon! We're the majority now -- the majority by a significant margin! We call the shots -- and we need to tell this wimpy Congress to get busy and do what we say -- or else.
All I ask of those who voted for Obama is to not pile on him too quickly. Yes, make your voice heard (his phone number is 202-456-1414). But don't abandon the best hope we've had in our lifetime for change. And for God's sake, don't head to bummerville if he says or does something we don't like. Do you ever see Republicans behave that way? I mean, the Right had 20 years of Republican presidents and they still couldn't get prayer in the public schools, or outlaw abortion, or initiate a flat tax or put our Social Security into the stock market. They did a lot of damage, no doubt about that, but on the key issues that the Christian Right fought for, they came up nearly empty handed. No wonder they've been driven crazy lately. They'll never have it as good again as they've had it since Reagan took office.
But -- do you ever see them looking all gloomy and defeated? No! They keep on fighting! Every day. Our side? At the first sign of wavering, we just pack up our toys and go home.
So, at least for this weekend, let us celebrate what people elsewhere are celebrating -- that America now has a sane and smart man in the White House, a man who truly wants a world at peace for his two daughters.
Many, for the past couple days (yes, myself included), have grumbled, "What has he done to earn this prize?" How 'bout this:
The simple fact that he was elected was reason enough for him to be the recipient of this year's Nobel Peace Prize.
Because on that day the murderous actions of the Bush/Cheney years were totally and thoroughly rebuked. One man -- a man who opposed the War in Iraq from the beginning -- offered to end the insanity. The world has stood by in utter horror for the past eight years as they watched the descendants of Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson light the fuse of our own self-destruction. We flipped off the nations on this planet by abandoning Kyoto and then proceeded to melt eight more years worth of the polar ice caps. We invaded two nations that didn't attack us, failed to find the real terrorists and, in effect, ignited our own wave of terror. People all over the world wondered if we had gone mad.
And if all that wasn't enough, the outgoing Joker presided over the worst global financial collapse since the Great Depression.
So, yeah, at precisely 11:00pm ET on November 4, 2008, Barack Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. And the 66 million people who voted for him won it, too. By the time he took the stage at midnight ET in the Grant Park Historic Hippie Battlefield in downtown Chicago, billions of people around the globe were already breathing a huge sigh of relief. It was as if, in that instant, one man did bring the promise of peace to the world -- and most were ready to go wherever he wanted to go to achieve that end. Never before had the election of one man made every other nation feel like they had won, too. When you've got billions of people ready, willing and able to join a cause like this, well, a prize in Oslo is the least that you deserve.
One other thought. The Peace Prize historically has been given to those who have worked to throw off the yoke of racial discrimination and segregation (Martin Luther King, Jr., Desmond Tutu). I think the Nobel committee, in awarding Obama the prize, was also rewarding the fact that something profound had happened in a nation that was founded on racial genocide, built on racist slavery, and held back for a hundred-plus years by vestiges of hateful bigotry (which can still be found on display at teabagger rallies and daily talk radio). The fact that this one man could cause this seismic historical event to occur -- and to do so with such grace and humility, never succumbing to the bait, but still not backing down (yes, he asked to be sworn in as "Barack Hussein Obama"!) -- is more than reason enough he should be in Oslo to meet the King on December 10. Maybe he could take us along with him. 'Cause I also suspect the Nobel committee was tipping its hat to all of us -- we, the American people, had conquered some of our racism and did the truly unexpected. After seeing searing images of our black fellow citizens left to drown in New Orleans -- and poor whites seeing their own treated no better than the black man they had been raised to hate -- we had all seen enough. It was time for change.
Thank you, Barack Obama, for giving us the opportunity to redeem ourselves. Now for the tasks ahead. We need you to do all that you promised to do. We need it. The world needs it.
My prediction for the future? You become the first *two-time* winner of the Nobel Peace Prize! Yeah!
Fred (that's Norwegian for "Peace"),
Michael Moore
MMFlint@aol.com
MichaelMoore.com
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Friday, October 9, 2009
Congratulations President Obama on the Nobel Peace Prize -- Now Please Earn it!
I agree with some of @MMFlint / Michael Moore's comments below about President Obama's Nobel Prize. What do you think?
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Michael Moore <maillist@michaelmoore.com>
Date: Fri, Oct 9, 2009 at 11:10 AM
Subject: Congratulations President Obama on the Nobel Peace Prize -- Now Please Earn it!
To: dlevy@nasw.org
Congratulations President Obama on the Nobel Peace Prize -- Now Please Earn it!
Friday, October 9th, 2009
Dear President Obama,
How outstanding that you've been recognized today as a man of peace. Your swift, early pronouncements -- you will close Guantanamo, you will bring the troops home from Iraq, you want a nuclear weapon-free world, you admitted to the Iranians that we overthrew their democratically-elected president in 1953, you made that great speech to the Islamic world in Cairo, you've eliminated that useless term "The War on Terror," you've put an end to torture -- these have all made us and the rest of the world feel a bit more safe considering the disaster of the past eight years. In eight months you have done an about face and taken this country in a much more sane direction.
But...
The irony that you have been awarded this prize on the 2nd day of the ninth year of our War in Afghanistan is not lost on anyone. You are truly at a crossroads now. You can listen to the generals and expand the war (only to result in a far-too-predictable defeat) or you can declare Bush's Wars over, and bring all the troops home. Now. That's what a true man of peace would do.
There is nothing wrong with you doing what the last guy failed to do -- capture the man or men responsible for the mass murder of 3,000 people on 9/11. BUT YOU CANNOT DO THAT WITH TANKS AND TROOPS. You are pursuing a criminal, not an army. You do not use a stick of dynamite to get rid of a mouse.
The Taliban is another matter. That is a problem for the people of Afghanistan to resolve -- just as we did in 1776, the French did in 1789, the Cubans did in 1959, the Nicaraguans did in 1979 and the people of East Berlin did in 1989. One thing is certain through all revolutions by people who wish to be free -- they ultimately have to bring about that freedom themselves. Others can be supportive, but freedom can not be delivered from the front seat of someone else's Humvee.
You have to end our involvement in Afghanistan now. If you don't, you'll have no choice but to return the prize to Oslo.
Yours,
Michael Moore
MMFlint@aol.com
MichaelMoore.comP.S. Your opposition has spent the morning attacking you for bringing such good will to this country. Why do they hate America so much? I get the feeling that if you found the cure for cancer this afternoon they'd be denouncing you for destroying free enterprise because cancer centers would have to close. There are those who say you've done nothing yet to deserve this award. As far as I'm concerned, the very fact that you've offered to walk into the minefield of hate and try to undo the irreparable damage the last president did is not only appreciated by me and millions of others, it is also an act of true bravery. That's why you got the prize. The whole world is depending on the U.S. -- and you -- to literally save this planet. Let's not let them down.
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Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Breaking News: CBO Says Senate Health-Care Bill Would Reduce Deficit
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: "The Washington Post" <newsletters@email.washingtonpost.com>
Date: October 7, 2009 1:28:30 PM PDT
To: dlevy@nasw.org
Subject: Breaking News: CBO Says Senate Health-Care Bill Would Reduce Deficit
Reply-To: "The Washington Post" <newslettersTUNMY9.276529@email.washingtonpost.com>
News Alert - http://link.email.washingtonpost.com/r/SFBD1U/5161X/NJQC5K/O1QAKI/1CH2M/UP/t
04:22 PM EDT Wednesday, October 7, 2009
CBO Says Senate Health-Care Bill Would Reduce Deficit - http://link.email.washingtonpost.com/r/SFBD1U/5161X/NJQC5K/O1QAKI/X8UOA/UP/t
A bill drafted by the Senate Finance Committee would cost $829 billion over the next decade, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said today, and meet President Obama's goal to reduce the federal budget deficit.
For more information, visit washingtonpost.com - http://link.email.washingtonpost.com/r/SFBD1U/5161X/NJQC5K/O1QAKI/1CH24/UP/t
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Sunday, October 4, 2009
MacPhail's excellent pinots featured in SF Chronicle profile
Sunday's San Francisco Chronicle includes a profile of winemaker James MacPhail, who is making some of the best Sonoma Pinot Noirs that I have ever had. I especially agree with Jon Bonne's characterization of MacPhail's Goodin vineyard Pinot as darker and richer than typical, but absolutely delicious. Here's the link to the article: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/10/02/FD5L19TVS5.DTL&type=wine.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Check out this site I found on StumbleUpon!
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Thursday, October 1, 2009
WSJ NEWS ALERT: Fossils From Human Forebearers Revealed
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: "WSJ.com Editors" <access@interactive.wsj.com>
Date: October 1, 2009 7:34:52 AM PDT
To: dlevy@nasw.org
Subject: WSJ NEWS ALERT: Fossils From Human Forebearers Revealed
Reply-To: do-not-reply@marketwatchmail.com
__________________________________
News Alert
from The Wall Street Journal
----------------------------
Sponsored by NASDAQ OMX
----------------------------
After 15 years of rumors, researchers in the U.S. and Ethiopia made public fossils from a 4.4-million-year-old human forebearer they say reveal that our earliest ancestors were more modern than scholars assumed and deepens the evolutionary gulf separating humankind from today's apes and chimpanzees.
The highlight of the extensive fossil trove is a female skeleton a million years older than the iconic bones of Lucy, the primitive female figure that has long symbolized humankind's beginnings.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125440678661956317.html?mod=djemalertNEWS
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Please act now to save the bluefin tuna
I have been following Casson Trenor's efforts to promote "Sustainable Sushi" and find his arguments most compelling. The bluefin tuna has been dangerously overfished, and I consider it no longer acceptable to order it at a sushi bar, and I have been actively encouraging sushi bars that I visit to stop serving it. Please read his latest blog post about the European Union's recent decision to NOT protect the bluefin for details on the problem and what you can do about it. And let me know what you think. http://www.sustainablesushi.net/2009/09/30/to-spite-their-faces/
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The real meaning of "rogue" - not what Sarah Palin wants us to think
Here is an article that recounts the origin of "rogue" in relation to ex-Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. It's not pretty, and the facts of the matters involved are not either. My hope is that Americans are not as shallow as she appears to be. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/akmuckraker/the-real-story-of-the-rog_b_302369.html
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Profound, scary, thought-provoking Oliphant cartoon
As usual, Pat Oliphant has a way of pointing out some of the thoughts lurking beneath the surface. The revelation that a Fox News producer "fired up" anti-Obama protesters on the Washington Mall on 9/12 apparently is the basis for this cartoon. Certainly it combines with some of the fanatacism that has been circulating on purported news programs such as those hosted by Glenn Beck on Fox and Rush Limbaugh on so many radio stations.
Many of us on the left vehemently disagreed with President George W. Bush and his policies, but the debate rarely sank to the personal attack levels that seem to have become commonplace. Whatever happened to respectful exchange of ideas?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Aircrew Buzz : Perp walk: Pace Airlines CEO arrested for not paying employees...
Doug Levy has sent you a link to a blog: Another commuter carrier runs into trouble... wonder what other bills they didn't pay. At least they are now grounded. Blog: Aircrew Buzz
Post: Perp walk: Pace Airlines CEO arrested for not paying employees' health insurance
Link: http://aircrewbuzz.com/2009/09/perp-walk-pace-airlines-ceo-arrested.html
Post: Perp walk: Pace Airlines CEO arrested for not paying employees' health insurance
Link: http://aircrewbuzz.com/2009/09/perp-walk-pace-airlines-ceo-arrested.html
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Hard to believe extent that ethics lapsed in GWBush administration
On some levels, the details of misdeeds by now-former Bush Administration officals should come as no surprise. Sadly, we have had more than our share of corruption cases in every recent administration. But the alarming information is the level at which some of those involved served and the arrogance that these former officials display now that they are out of office. The Legal Times reports today on a case involving the former chief of staff to the attorney general. These are supposed to be the people enforcing the laws, not breaking them. (To be fair, David Ayres has not been charged with any crimes... yet, but his decision to decline to testify on the grounds that his testimony might incriminate him is most disturbing.) Of course, the Bush Justice Department was for a while headed by Alberto Gonzales, who disgracefully let politics guide his legal actions and arrogantly promoted himself as a "legal expert" earlier this year, commenting on President Obama's nominees and other issues. The New York Times puts this in the right perspective, which Gonzales certainly doesn't have. And let's not forget some of the other upstanding Bush Administration officials:
I hope and pray that the current administration sets a new tone for ethics in public office. Even though it seems every new president makes this promise, we are long overdue for this promise to be kept. For a compilation of White House officials indicted over the years, see http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9825296/. (Thanks to @cbsandrewcohen and @Legal_Times for pointing out the Ayres matter today. The comments above are solely mine.)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I don't want to know how much taxpayer $$ was wasted on this
The Associated Press has a report on the government's latest ideas on how to revise the "terror alert" system -- you know, the red, orange, yellow, flags that certainly are meaningless now and probably have been since the Bush Administration first introduced them. Sure, there needs to be a way to warn people that danger lurks somewhere, but how many of us really knows what the difference is between yellow or orange unless we are in an airport? Besides, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has made it even more confusing by raising the alert for specific sectors periodically instead of across the board. Isn't it time that we focus on real security instead of the illusion of it? the sad reality is that many of the most obvious security gaps in the United States -- and especially in the transportation system -- remain wide-open holes. How much air cargo carried on passenger jets is screened? And does anyone really feel safer knowing that people who look Muslim are more likely to be harassed by security, while others who may be real threats walk on through? I treasure my freedom and want the government to really protect us, with meaningful measures, not just things that look good. Real life is not a Madison Avenue or Hollywood image.
Here's the link to the AP article: http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=8576650.
Monday, September 14, 2009
We must stop the dolphin slaughter
The Guardian has an important follow-up to the brutality exposed in the documentary The Cove. See http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/sep/14/dolphin-slaughter-hunting-japan-taiji for gruesome photographs and an update on the merciless slaughter of dolphins by Japanese fishermen. Please take action today, and post what you are doing in the comments section so others can follow your lead.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Doug sent you a story from TPM
Doug sent you a story from TPM: Post Wingnut Ergo Propter Wingnut http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/2009/09/post_wingnut_ergo_propter_wingnut.php Visit http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com for breaking political news and analysis.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson shouts, 'You lie' at Obama
*This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/09/09/joe.wilson/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/09/09/joe.wilson/index.html
Monday, September 7, 2009
Labor Day BBQ
Niman Ranch lamb chops, marinated in mustard, garlic and Worchestershire sauce, slow grilled.
Sent from my iPhone
10 minute health care video worth watching
Monday, July 6, 2009
Random thoughts about health care
On my way to SFO on a recent Saturday, my Morrocan taxi driver was telling me how difficult it is for him to afford good health care for his family, yet he was grateful for San Francisco's comparably good system of public clinics. But he doesn't understand why Washington folks keep talking about health care reform while the problems get worse. Good question.... When I arrived in Barcelona the next day, I discovered that I left my asthma medicine home. In the US, if I walk into a pharmacy having an asthma attack, even the best places would make me wait until they check my prescription on the computer and of course make me pay. Here, I went into a farmacia, made my best attempt at asking for the medicine in broken Catalan and Spanish, and within less than 2 minutes, I had the medicine in my hand available for immediate use. And the price? The total price was about half my share of the cost at home with insurance coverage. Something about this doesn't make sense....
Sunday, June 14, 2009
The search for decent barbecue
I defy anyone who has traveled much in the Southeastern United States to avoid becoming hooked on great 'cue. My love affair with smoky, spicy meat began in Lexington, NC, when the aromas drifting across the highway from Lexington Barbecue #1 drew me magnetically toward the most magnificent pulled pork I have ever had.
The baby back ribs were slow smoked with light seasoning, then served with a sweet sauce infused with cayenne pepper on the side. Although the sauce had a rich, tomato flavor and good flavor overall, it should be served hot, not cold.
While I am fully aware that the Bay area is not known for barbecue, I figured surely someone must do it right. The old Flint's in Oakland in the 1970s and early 1980s certainly came close. And there is much to like about family-run Everett & Jones in Berkeley and Oakland. But what about the North Bay?
My search is not over, but I am pleased to report that Lombardi's Deli on North Petaluma Blvd. in Petaluma serves up credible 'Q. The five hot smokers lined up in front of the store was a welcoming sign on my recent visit.
The baby back ribs were slow smoked with light seasoning, then served with a sweet sauce infused with cayenne pepper on the side. Although the sauce had a rich, tomato flavor and good flavor overall, it should be served hot, not cold.
As for the ribs, they were meaty, hot, and smoky. But this wasn't falling-off-the-bone barbecue-these weren't cooked quite long or slow enough. Good taste, completely acceptable, but not championship barbecue.
Even though these weren't fantastic ribs, I was impressed at the variety of barbecued items offered at Lombardi's, and the men tending the grills definitely took their work seriously. Other items included fresh asparagus, juicy mushrooms, hamburgers, and fresh oysters. My starter of a filled (deviled) egg was a little bland but it was fresh and attractive.
All in all, Lombardi's makes a good lunch stop or carryout if you are in or near Petaluma. But it doesn't warrant a long drive.
My search continues.
-- Post From My iPhone
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
CDC no longer recommending immediate school closures
Based on the mildness of swine flu cases in the United States, the CDC has updated its guidance as of today and no longer recommends the immediate closure of K-12 schools based on a single suspected case of H1N1 or swine flu. The main recommendation now is the same as in other populations: keep sick people home and isolated, encourage frequent handwashing, and cover your mouth when you cough (not with your hands!)
For more details: CDC H1N1 Flu | Update on School (K – 12) Dismissal and Childcare Facilities
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Tam High in Mill Valley shut for flu fear
Marin health officials are closing Mill Valley's Tamalpais High School for three days while one suspected swine flu case there is investigated.
More info at http://marinij.com and http://marinflu.org.
-- Post From My iPhone
Now 29 California cases
State reporting now 29 H1N1 cases confirmed; 130 more "probable" cases being investigated further.
A school in Berkeley now joins the small list of schools (one in Marin, a few in Santa Clara) in the Bay area closed as a precaution after one student got sick.
It definitely appears that the spread is relatively slow -- my guess is that the precautions may be working.
Keep washing those hands!
-- Post From My iPhone
Now 26 confirmed cases in California, two more "probable" in Marin
The state health department now reports 26 confirmed cases of #swineflu or #H1N1 in California. Most of the cases are in southern California counties near Mexico - Imperial, San Diego and San Bernadino.
In Marin County, the local health department reports two more "probable" cases, including one in a 35-year-old man who had not been to Mexico. This would indicate probable human-to-human, or second generation, infection, which is a step closer to "pandemic" if it becomes widespread. Note that the illnesses in these individuals have all been reported to be minor. More information is on the Marin County health department's flu update page.
The state updates are posted on the state web site.
View CDPH Swine Flu Tracking in a larger map
Swine flu implications for travel
Reports during the past few days of commerical planes being diverted to alternate airports, passengers being quarantined, hotels being cordoned off, and of course Vice President Joe Biden's absurd comments have raised concerns among people planning travel.
Here is an attempt to separate some of the facts from fiction.
Flu, including swine flu, is transmitted by droplets. Unless you are within about three feet of an infected and contagious individual, the risk is relatively small. The primary guidance for managing a suspected sick passenger on an airplane is to try to move other passengers so that there is nobody within 3-6 feet of the individual, to provide a surgical mask for the ill passenger (to prevent their sneezes or coughs from infecting others), and for flight crews to use disposable gloves when handling possibly infected materials from the passenger. The crew also has to alert U.S. health officials prior to landing, who are to make the appropriate arrangements for medical personnel to meet the plane on arrival. The CDC has traveler quarantine stations in about 20 cities, so diverting an aircraft would seem to be an unlikely -- and very costly -- event.
The CDC also has very specific recommendations for cleaning airplanes, trains, cabs, and other transit vehicles during an outbreak. The cleaning focuses on areas where a suspected ill passenger or crew member was located. On airplanes, cleaning with a disinfectant is recommended for all surfaces such as seat belt latches, armrests, tray tables, windowshades, and passenger controls such as lighting and audio.
The flu virus can survive outside the human body for more than 24 hours, but the CDC says that it is highly doubtful that sufficient amounts to be infectious would be present on any surfaces on an airplane or other conveyance after many hours.
If you are traveling, the most practical advice from the CDC is to carry a pocket-sized alcohol gel so that you can keep your hands clean throughout your flight or other travel. Although this does not take the place of thorough hand washing with hot water and soap, it is a very effective interim measure.
For more information, visit the CDC's Travel Notices page, which is frequently updated.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Only 24 cases of H1N1 flu in CA
The latest update from the California Department of Public Health shows only 24 confirmed cases of swine flu in the state. Although another 77 "probable" cases are under investigation, the key message here is that lots of people have been tested... And very few people actually have been sick.
-- Post From My iPhone
Friday, May 1, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Spreading facts, common sense instead of germs
The government public health experts have a lot of different flyers and other useful guides that help explain what really prevents the spread of swine flu or other infections, and hopefully debunks some of the alarmist or fake advice popping up seemingly everywhere.
Here are a few flyers that I think convey clear messages:
- Swine (H1N1) influenza and you - CDC
- San Francisco Dept. of Public Health - Is it a cold or the swine flu?
- Stopping the Spread of Flu Germs at Work - CDC
Swine Means No Wine for Some Catholics | NBC Chicago
Back in the early 1990s, I reported on evidence that Catholic Communion practices -- specifically sharing the same cup of wine -- posed viral infection risks. Any time you share a glass, spoon or fork with another person, you are trading germs. That also happens when you touch another person's body (especially eyes, nose and mouth, but other parts, too, including skin.)
For those of us who dine out often, this is yet another reason why restaurant staff need to be careful to handle silverware only by the end that doesn't go into your mouth. Bartenders who serve drinks handling a glass by the rim also put you at risk. I like to watch how people handle dishes before I am comfortable in many restaurants.
And again, this is just another reason people should follow common sense infection control practices every day. The same things recommended now to avoid swine flu (or "H1N1 flu") are things we should do anyway to avoid other forms of flu, hepatitis, and other widely spread infections.
Just as health care workers learned in the 1980s, "universal precautions" work best because you cannot tell that someone is infectious just by how they look.
Not pandemic yet, says WHO
http://twitter.com/diseasegeek/status/1659743066
"WHO's Fukuda says nothing WHO sees today suggests should go declare a
pandemic now. #swineflu"
- Helen Branswell (@diseasegeek)
Sent from my iPhone
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Good blog post: Swine flu: I beat a dead horse
Here is an interesting post on a public health blog questioning whether health officials or the media are "hyping" the swine flu outbreaks. Read more: Swine flu: I beat a dead horse : Effect Measure
Posted using ShareThis.
Posted using ShareThis.
Pandemic near, now what?
Do not get alarmed as the number of confirmed swine flu cases grows in the next several days. It will grow -- by a lot, and quickly, because people are being tested widely and those tests can be performed without sending samples to the CDC. Keep in mind that most of the cases have been relatively mild. In many, people have recovered before testing was even complete.
The precautions being taken -- like closing a school at the first sign of infection -- may seem severe, but keeping possibly infected individuals isolated (such as at their home) is the most effective and practical way to thwart person-to-person spread. Some communities in Texas and a few schools in Northern California have canceled classes already while suspected or confirmed cases are investigated and the schools can be disinfected.
Should things get much worse in any community, major public events may be curtailed and many people will be urged to work from their homes temporarily. This is why having a supply of food and other essential supplies is a good idea.
Do you need to wear a mask? Probably not. If you are sick, wearing a handkerchief or surgical mask is probably a good idea to keep from spreading your germs. If a family member gets sick, the CDC recommends that the individual stay in one room and that only one family member enters to provide care. Surgical masks do not provide sufficient protection from the flu for a non-infected person, by the way.
Can I get swine flu on an airplane? Maybe, but probably not. Contrary to popular belief, the flu virus doesn't circulate very well, especially through many air conditioner filters. Although airplane air may be stale, it is not likely to carry the flu. However, if you are seated next to someone with the flu, your risk is considerably higher. The flu is transmitted through little fluid droplets that don't travel far, but airplane seats are pretty tight. Best advice: carry some alcohol wipes and swab your audio-video controls, your tray table and other surfaces before touching them. Use a tissue to open and close lavatory doors. And, wash your hands frequently.
-- Post From My iPhone
The Canadian Press: Swine flu: From nowhere to pandemic Phase 5 in less than a month
Here is an excellent timeline on the swine flu outbreak. It shows how rapidly an infectious agent can spread in the world of global travel.
The Canadian Press: Swine flu: From nowhere to pandemic Phase 5 in less than a month
Swine flu officially a "pandemic"
This should be no surprise given the large number of cases being
investigated around the world and now that we have evidence of
transmission to people who were not in Mexico.
investigated around the world and now that we have evidence of
transmission to people who were not in Mexico.
It remains to be seen whether these second generation infections are
as virulent. But expect to see more school closings and other mass
events postponed as cases emerge.
http://twitter.com/BreakingNews/status/1651871427
"URGENT -- World Health Organization to declare swine flu a pandemic,
BNO News confirms: http://adjix.com/59rk"
- BNO News (@BreakingNews)
Sent from my iPhone
California swine flu update
http://twitter.com/schwarzenegger/status/1651734446
"We've confirmed 14 cases of swine flu, 17 more probable. Remember to
wash your hands frequently and stay home if you have symptoms."
- Gov Schwarzenegger (@schwarzenegger)
Sent from my iPhone
Updated swine flu count from CDC
http://twitter.com/CDCemergency/status/1650120856
"SwineFlu case count in U.S.-AZ 1, CA 14, IN 1, KS 2, MA 2, MI 2, NV
1, NY 51, OH 1, TX 16 & 1 death. Total 91 http://bit.ly/EzRgq #swineflu"
- CDC Emergency (@CDCemergency)
Sent from my iPhone
Evidence of 2nd generation swine flu infections
If the school outbreaks in NY and elsewhere are confirmed as swine
flu, that info plus this news from Spain suggests we may be
approaching pandemic stage.
flu, that info plus this news from Spain suggests we may be
approaching pandemic stage.
Remember that this disease is not typically fatal, but it is highly
contagious. If you feel sick, stay home. Wash hands often. Cough into
a tissue and discard the tissue, or cough into your arm--not your
hand. Hands spread germs.
"Reuters :Spanish Health Ministry confirms case of swine flu in person
who did not travel to Mexico."
- BNO News (@BreakingNews)
Sent from my iPhone
Fwd: WSJ NEWS ALERT: U.S. Confirms First Swine-Flu Death
>
>
>
>
> News Alert
> from The Wall Street Journal
>
>
> The U.S. confirmed its first swine-flu death since the outbreak. The
> CDC said a 23-month-old child in Texas has died from the virus.
>
> The number of confirmed cases rose to 66 in the U.S., including five
> people in California and Texas being treated at hospitals. More
> evidence of the global spread of a deadly flu emerged Wednesday, as
> an eighth country confirmed the disease's presence.
>
> http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124099457700067617.html#mod=djemalertNEWS
>
> ______________________________
> Copyright 2009 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
>
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Contra Costa county school closed as flu precaution
http://twitter.com/KCBSNews/status/1646712110
"Highlands Elementary in Pittsburg will be shut down for the next few
days because of swine flu. More here: http://tinyurl.com/cgcgjg"
- KCBS 740AM/106.9FM (@KCBSNews)
Sent from my iPhone
Swine flu in Marin: The facts and the questions
Although the Marin County Health Department reported two swine flu cases Tuesday, there are no reports of anyone contracting swine flu in Marin. In other words, the only people who have gotten sick are people who recently traveled to Mexico. So far, of the 64 cases confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of midday Tuesday, only one -- in Kansas -- appeared to be person-to-person transmission at home.
The Marin woman, 60, and a 20-month old grandaughter, both of whom recently returned from Mexico, had confirmed cases of swine flu. The child is no longer sick, and the woman has only mild symptoms. Nobody else in the family appears to have gotten the illness, according to health authorities.
The rapid spread of the disease in Mexico, and its growing death toll, poses a number of questions for epidemiologists. So does the relative mildness of the illnesses within the United States. One possible explanation is that the swine flu virus may be losing potency as it is transmitted from one person to the next. Over the next few days and weeks, we will learn much more as physicians report more cases and their sources can be traced.
Because the virus is so easily transmitted, the CDC has recommended steps such as school closures at the first indication that a student has become infected. Keeping an infected individual away from other people is the single most important thing that can be done to reduce risk of spreading disease. Until we know how infectious the strain of swine flu in Marin actually is, people should do what ought to be done all the time: wash hands frequently, cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough, and stay home if you have any signs of illness.
Richard Besser, MD, acting director of the CDC, was quite definitive Tuesday when asked what people should do:
Hand washing. We say it every day. People will get tired of hearing it because we are always going to say that. Hand washing, use of alcohol hand gels can reduce the spread of viruses. And if people take that step, that can reduce the risk that they're going to get an infection. Covering your cough. Not with your hand, but with your arm or your shoulder. That can reduce the likelihood that you are going to transmit a virus.My earlier post has good sources of updated information. Please email or add comments with questions that you want me to pursue. Let's all stay healthy.
Handy one-page flyer about swine flu in Marin
Here is a useful flyer with Marin-specific swine flu information.
What you need to know about swine flu
The news that a Marin woman and her grandaughter contracted swine flu on a recent trip to Mexico clearly indicates that we need to be careful, but my experience as a health care journalist and working in health care settings for more than 20 years tells me that there is a big difference between caution and alarm. In this case, prudence and caution make sense.
First, some facts:
- Swine flu, like other flu bugs, is a virus that is transmitted by tiny droplets usually found in mucus. Most flu is transmitted from one human to another, although infections like this are thought to originate in animals with human contact.
- There is no evidence of risk of catching swine flu from eating pork or other animal products.
- Most of the cases of swine flu that have been reported so far in the United States have been relatively mild and with typical flu symptoms (fever, muscle aches, nausea.)
We do not yet know enough about why so many fatalities in Mexico have occurred, but the flu is one of the biggest killers worldwide every year, so some deaths are to be expected.
- Everyday precautions -- like thoroughly washing hands -- will do more to protect each of us from any kind of flu than most of the other steps being touted by supposed media experts or concerned neighbors.
The World Health Organization currently calls the swine flu a "pandemic risk," not a "pandemic." This is an important distinction. Right now, there is no evidence that the flu is spreading rapidly beyond the initial outbreak communities. If that were to change, the level of precautions would, too.
For example, if there is evidence that these two people in Marin have in turn infected others, and then we have evidence that those individuals passed the infection along again, health officials would likely order a cancellation of large group events and potentially ask employers to allow workers to stay home. This "isolation in place" technique is critical for anyone who has flu symptoms, but if the outbreak spreads, it also keeps healthy people from contracting the disease.
Meantime, this is a good opportunity to make sure you or your families have appropriate emergency supplies on hand. This means nonperishable foods, a good supply of water, extra supplies of any necessary prescription medicines, and things to help pass the time like a deck of cards. And since we are in earthquake country, don't forget things like a flashlight and a wrench to turn gas valves off.
What you do not need: I've heard people rushing to buy surgical masks or "N95" protective masks. If you get the flu and must go out in public, wearing a surgical mask will help protect others around you, but you are better off staying home. The N95 masks are really only suitable for health care workers who are taking care of sick people. These masks are not very comfortable, are often worn incorrectly, and are not very useful for widespread use except in the most extreme circumstances. (For more information on protective measures, visit the CDC web site.)
And while disinfectants may be a good idea, plain old soap and hot water works just fine. Antibacterial gels may be convenient to keep in the pocket when a sink and soap aren't handy, but it's the alcohol in them that protects you -- not the antibacterial characteristics. (There's actually some evidence that widespread use of antibacterial gels and soaps promotes resistant bacteria, too.)
For Marin County's recommendations, visit the county Health Department web site and download its flyer on family precautions. The county has also created an RSS feed for swine flu news.
The San Francisco Department of Public Health also has compiled many excellent resources and links on its swine flu web site.
Why widespread fear of swine flu is unwarranted
Widespread concern may be appropriate, but widespread fear is unwarranted -- so far. Reporter Helen Branswell of the Canadian Press has done an article that cogently explains why the World Health Organization has designated the current swine flu outbreak as Phase 4, not the pandemic level, Phase 5. Experience suggests that many flu strains fail to infect more than two or three generations of individuals. In other words, a virus can move from an animal to a first human, from the first human to a second human, and maybe from the second human to a third human. Beyond that is much less likely. If it did occur, then a pandemic -- an infection established in a community and spreading -- would be the likely consequence.
CTV.ca | WHO looking for signs of ongoing swine flu spread
Precautions for individuals/families in case of pandemic flu emergency
MarinPanFluFlyer10-06 .pdf (application/pdf Object)
Marin County has published a helpful flyer on precautions that individuals and families can take in case of pandemic flu threat. This includes "worst case" preparations, which means being ready for "shelter-in-place" instructions to keep from being exposed to others in the community. We are nowhere close to that level, but living in Earthquake Country, most of these precautions are wise steps anyway.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Swine flu should prompt caution, not fear
I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that people throughout the United States and beyond are searching for anti-viral medications, surgical masks and other supplies because of the swine flu outbreak. But I am concerned that people are over-reacting -- and wasting precious time and resources on things that should be a lower priority. If everyone in the United States was more diligent about hand washing, we would have much less to be worried about.
Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- All strains of influenza, including "swine flu," are transmitted by tiny particles most commonly found in mucus. If you don't come in contact with the secretions of a sick person's coughs or sneezes, you're unlikely to get sick.
- The best way to prevent the spread of swine flu is a) for people who are sick to stay home and b) to wash hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching hands to your mouth, nose or eyes.
- The best use of masks is for people who are sick to wear them when encountering other people. A simple surgical mask works fine for this purpose. This is an easy way to significantly reduce the risk to others.
- Surgical masks are not effective as protection for people who must be around a person with swine or other flu. The CDC recommends that health care workers have properly fitted N-95 masks when caring for people with suspected swine flu or related illness.
- The flu is a virus, not a bacteria, so stocking up on antibiotics won't help. Two of the four commonly used antiviral drugs for flu work against the swine flu, which is why you need to call a doctor as soon as symptoms appear.
Here are a few credible places to go for information:
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Swine Flu Home Page
- California Department of Public Health Swine Flu Information
- UCSF Infectious Disease Expert Answers Questions About Swine Flu
- How to care for someone with the flu (CDC reference)
In my opinion, there are a few things that we should do:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
- Clean doorknobs and similar surfaces frequently and thoroughly using a disinfectant.
- Make sure you get a flu shot every year. You can't get sick from the vaccination, although you might have a muscle ache for a day or two.
- Urge colleagues, friends, family to be responsible and stay home if they are sick.
- Check with the CDC or state health department to verify information that you get from other sources before acting on it.
Regulators, manufacturers, blew it on peanut safety
The widespread contamination of peanuts all linked to a singled processor, Peanut Corp. of America, is perhaps the most dramatic proof yet that our current methods for ensuring food safety are perilously flawed. My former colleague Julie Schmit has done an outstanding article documenting the many missed opportunities to catch hazards at PCA. There is plenty of blame to go around: it was not only federal and state regulators who blew it, but also the manufacturers, like Kellogg's, who purchased products from PCA. Interesting to note that Nestle did its own inspections and stopped using PCA years ago, according to Schmit's reporting.
The outbreak sickened more than 700 people, may have contributed to nine deaths, and cost the food industry millions from the recall of more than 3,600 products. With evidence of health hazards at a PCA plant in 2001, one has to wonder why nobody did anything until after all these people were hurt.
David Kessler: Fat, Salt and Sugar Alter Brain Chemistry, Make Us Eat Junk Food - washingtonpost.com
My former boss, David Kessler, who led the Food and Drug Administration during most of the 1990s when I was a reporter covering the agency, has a new book out with some interesting research on why we keep eating things that we know are bad for us.
The Washington Post is one of several publications that have done major articles about the book. It's worth a read: David Kessler: Fat, Salt and Sugar Alter Brain Chemistry, Make Us Eat Junk Food - washingtonpost.com
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