Of All the People

Tonight, after deciding to skip dinner, my tummy started growling and demanded that I run over to the chow hall before I missed my "free" opportunity at sustenance.  As I'm sitting there alone I notice an officer approaching to sit with me.  We start chatting and connecting stories as I realize he's got a cross above his name-tape signifying his duty as a chaplain.  A chaplain's duties shift toward morale and a less-specified religious preference--especially upon deployment.  So being essentially the king of morale, imagine my bewilderment when his confidence starts slipping as he talks about this trip being his first.  He furthers his self-doubt with stories of doctors being killed and talks of foreign-aide workers being harmed.  As we take turns eating and talking, his refusal to view the deployment as any sort of positive opportunity begins feeling like a weight upon my mission-ready mind.  Finally, using our scheduled formation as an excuse, I thank him for the chat and head for the door.  As good-bye I say, "Enjoy your deployment." but deep-down understand that his biggest challenge over the next little while exists not in any troop that may come asking for help.  For the sake of the troops that will need him the most, I hope he's able to come to grips with his situation.

Raining and Training

Indoor training provided respite from rain.  Body armor provided protection to class instructor while deployed.  He got shot in the back, knocked him down, nothing more.  Played with our weapons.  Took them apart and put them back together, nothing new there.

Wet Heat

HOT! Not so much bothered by the temperature in the high 80's, just the humidity in the 80% range.  Slept crappy with the temperature so high and the dorm sweltering.  Local leaders welcomed us today.  Took pointless survey number one and saw the lost Monarch of which I wrote yesterday.  How do Monarchs (or other animals for that matter) know which direction to travel?  I know there are multiple answers, but its just interesting to ponder.

It Begins

Flew away from gloomy, overcast city of Great Falls like a misguided Monarch.  Landed in the land of left-handed mittens, where Millers grind barley and all cheese squeaks.  The Trib said the governor saw us off, he must own a fancy Lord of the Rings cloak.  Too bad, I hoped to catch a glimpse of the famed bolo tie.  I wonder if he has a bolo rack like many men have a selection of ties.  I guess there could be different materials for the tie and the pendant portion could be different stones, bones, etc.

Adventure, start!

Athletic Goals

I've set forth on a running journey with a number of goals in mind.  First, I aim at completing a marathon in April or May, 2011.  My super-great, everything-goes-as-planned and I run faster than ever imaginable would qualify me for the Boston Marathon (3:10:00).  Realistically, I'm aiming at the four hour mark, while pushing for something slightly more special.

Secondly, I've decided that finishing an Ironman Triathalon (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run) sits as a goal on the horizon.  Cut-off times exist for each discipline as well as a 17-hours overall time limit.  Considering I have no idea how long it takes me to ride one mile (much less 112), and I'm not sure I can swim 50 meters anymore I haven't set a time goal for this other than completion within the allotted time frame.  Furthermore, I anticipate participation in numerous shorter sprint, Olympic, and half-Ironman within the next few years as preparation for one of the most grueling individual athletic tests of our day.

Finally, any and all encouragement/advice/comments/cheering in the coming months and years are always welcome and usually encouraged.

Premier Storage

Found a storage unit with great security, friendly staff, and oodles of discounts. Additionally, if you're looking for somewhere to store some stuff we've got coupons to get the first month's rent free and a lock (they use fancy in-door locks which normally cost $10). It's definitely in Hillsboro, but the 25% discount on the first six months and free use of their moving truck makes them worth considering.  The storage area's also climate controlled and they play music so your furniture doesn't get cold, hot, or lonely.

So, if you're looking for storage just ask for a coupon and we'll hook you up.

Premier Storage

Average Airman

Two weeks from today marks a new chapter's beginning as I embark on a deployment as a member of the U.S. Air Force. I am an average Airman. No particular portion of my duties puts me at any higher risk than anyone else. And I am a Staff Sergeant (exactly in the middle of all enlisted ranks). Most would consider my role in the military essential, yet barely military (the carrying of a weapon to work probably tips the scale toward military).

Today the gravity of my situation pulled slightly as I said goodbye to my day-job and collected a number of email addresses to "keep in touch." The idea that I'm off to war exists as a surrealist projection miles away, poised to bitch-slap me when I'm least prepared. Mostly, I'm feeling anxious to start a new occupation (compared to the monotony of the last years), excited for what may or may not occur, and relieved that my income will get a hefty boost (both from higher base pay and the exemption from taxes while deployed). The next nine months promise a roller-coaster of adventure, and I'm ready for the ride.

Each time the thought of someone trying to kill me crosses my mind it pushes me to live my life. Since learning of my deployment, I've taken each opportunity as it presents itself (actually seeking out areas for growth) and become even more "C'est la vie!" than before when it comes to the little things. I've been motivated to do more, be more, and simply live more; basically because a small fear lingers on the horizon. (I don't think anyone going to war can deny at least a minute presence of fear.)

Throughout the coming months, I'll use The Daily Scott to give you a vision of war through the eyes of An Average Airman. I realize this post comes across as discombobulated feelings distantly connected to war, which points exactly to my physical and emotional state at this point. The distance closes quickly as I prepare for the challenge. Come along.

Generation Lost

On a trip to Barnes & Noble this evening I purchased Frances Hodgson Burnett's "The Secret Garden." (As a side note, I hate the different rules for underlining/quotationing/highlighting/bolding different titles based on whether a piece of literature is classified as book/novel/bible/magazine/toilet paper.) Back to The Secret Garden and the reason behind the purchase (beside its classification as a classic and costing a minuscule $5.95). As my Grandma Strah's favorite book, it exists as a link to generation's past. I'll read every word with thoughts of my recently passed grandmother and find her and discover each ounce of her that remains. This grasping comes with the feeling of near-regret for missed opportunities and time misspent. The impact deepens with the realization that a complete generation of my direct family no longer shares this life.

My Grandma Strah loved sewing, frogs, “Boots,” Bud Light, thimbles, and most of all family. Her maternal powers and ever-giving heart melded four generations. She lived through The Great Depression, World War II, and countless other Worldly tragedies. Most impressively, she cared for her husband for thirteen years after his stroke before his death. While the hospital retained her handicapped husband she walked to visit him nightly, until they allowed him respite at home. In fact, she attained a driver’s license in her mid-forties, years after Boots’ (my grandpa) stroke. No person entering her home didn't immediately become family and you left knowing that you had joined. This 4th of July, for the first time in my life, (26 years) I found the front door locked when I went to use the bathroom. I'd begun to suspect the lock missing on that particular door.  Sadly, I've discovered, it functions.

Bella

Bella, our favorite neighbor (by far), visits us from the prison of her porch, but greets us excitedly at least once each day.  As punishment, her siblings set her free (I hope you feel the sarcasm of the word choice here) to either one of two 4' X 8' second-story patios for hours on end.  Bella's journeys nearly always run short on water and food exists as a mere memory of hours past. 

However, as Bella's self-proclaimed god-parent she greets me with kisses and happiness on every occasion.  Somehow, through yelling parents, jaded siblings, and a drugged-out uncle she maintains the sweetest personality one could ask for.  Its a shame such a wonderful creature came into this situation.  But, I'll continually receive her kisses and happiness as reminders of the spirit which refuses sadness and perpetually celebrates life and joy. 

The Runner's High?

Formerly, the term "runner's high" brought a grin to my face and a smirk to my heart as I imagined some skinny (the sometimes unhealthy-looking runner-skinny) guy smoking a joint just before heading out for a long run.  Obviously, this most literal of interpretations most-likely offends runners and possibly offends your friendly neighborhood stoner as well.

Recently, I've discovered my mistake.  Through my training, I've reached that oh-so-blessed state-of-mind (completely legally, of course).  Bliss arrives with the first good sweat and lasts until you give in to your legs' cry for mercy.  Each runner's high must presumably differ in ways I'm unsure.  But, I assure you, this fairy tale land exists.  I have visited.

My personal running land exists each day as a blank canvas.  Awaiting my wandering mind, free from boundaries, reality, or pessimism.  A neural amusement park unbounded by laws of physics and still untamed by my rookie status as "Runner."  Each day promises new opportunity to explore and learn this land beyond.  I look forward to knowing you better, peaceful state of mind.

Business Courtesy

As a recent BA graduate in biology I've been forced to search for a job at a time when it isn't the most pleasant event around.  Tonight, it struck me that there are a number of things that irk me about the process.  However, there's one single step, or lack thereof, which bugs me more than the overplayed songs on the radio.

When did it become common practice to skip the rejection letter?  No valid reason exists which explains why this simple task can not be completed. 

First, letting people know they weren't selected for an interview would be nice to let them move on to other aspirations.  For example, application processes often occur completely online and via email.  Hence, "Company Biology" puts forth no effort into gathering your information (the days of neatly stacked resumes exist no more).  After evaluation of gathered applications and resumes, selecting the "rejects" and sending them a simple "you suck" email (in kinder language, because business is all about courtesy) would cost mere pennies.  Yet, this seems impossible.  A phone call may have once been the norm, but I would be happy with any kind of rejection.


Secondly, if in the process of hiring, any applicants reach "FORMAL INTERVIEW STAGE" (that's a low-tone, booming voice) she or he deserves a "FORMAL REJECTION LETTER" (same voice).  If you've spent the time, (in business speak this reads, "If you've spent the money,") to interview someone, he or she deserves 44 pennies and three minutes of your (or your office aide's) time to know that s/he will be working somewhere else.  I, personally, interviewed for a position and was told directly that I would receive a call within the week to let me know their decision.  That interview took place May 3rd.

Finally, the process of building a proper resume and subsequently adjusting its properties for each application becomes a tedious and time-consuming affair.  At least a business can recognize the effort (while the fit may not exist) and let an applicant know to continue looking.


Where has all the business courtesy gone?

B.O. (Bats & Otter)

We visited Fit Right NW today in an effort to find some new running shoes for Jen (success!).  The process included a video-taped session of barefoot running on one of their treadmills.  The process continued with an explanation of the shoes and features which should be considered for one's running style.  Overall, an impressive process that (for the moment) has landed Jen a new pair of Asics (not to worry, there's a 30-day trial period).  I also tried on the highly-worshiped C.E.P. Sportsocks purported to speed recovery and decrease injury.  Sadly, at $60 a pair they're beyond what I'm willing to pay.  Fortunately, by trying them on, I discovered they're nothing more than a glorified soccer sock (think of the extremely tight ones that you struggle for days to put on).

Went down to Bethany Lake Park and I sketched the lake while Jen read and we ate Tillamook cheddar with strawberries and blackberries.  Delicious.  On the way out we decided to look for the otter we've seen on separate occasions and happily discovered him (or her) scouring the depths near its home.  This sprouted the thought of whether this animal could possibly be a nutria rather than an otter.  However, it appears the characteristics fit the description of an otter over a nutria.  While watching the otter, a "bird" seemed to be flying oddly overhead and dipping and diving as if it were attacking other flying organisms.  When this UFO came closer it became obvious we were watching a bat at work.  Upon further sky-gazing we found another bat swooping the skies.  Interesting!

Whole Foods and Beyond

This morning Jen and I went to Liberty High School's track for a pleasant morning run.  I jogged a warm-up mile then ran eighteen eighteens.  Upon further thought and calculation, I realized that in order to run a 4:00-mile I would have to maintain my sprinting pace for a full mile.  Even then, I would be in the upper four-minute range.  One more mind-boggling statistic before I move on, a four-minute miler runs at an average of 15 miles per hour.

We also went to Whole Foods and the Tanasbourne Farmer's Market (held in the Whole Foods' parking lot).  Their pineapples taste like a juicy celebration.  Got some more of my favorite milk (non-homogenized, local, organic) and already drank two glasses. 

On a similar note, try eating food that only has ingredients you can pronounce.  I've cut a majority (possibly 100%) of my high fructose corn syrup consumption.  (I realize high fructose corn syrup rolls off the tongue rather nicely, but its just as nasty as all those things you can't say.)  High fructose corn syrup's digestion creates a huge release of insulin to aid in its uptake, over time this overproduction leads to the development of Type II diabetes.  If the your health doesn't provide the necessary incentives to cutting HFCS, consider: the most highly subsidized crop in America is corn.  I'm all for helping provide our country with the food necessary to feed 300 million people.  But, the production of corn has been so over-subsidized that its now showing up everywhere from livestock feed to yogurt to gasoline and beyond.  If you like corn, eat corn; but do you really need it as a part of every meal?

Also, soy sucks.  By now, most the nation's soy crops are a genetically modified seed which holds Round-Up resistant properties.  (Farmer's can now do their "weeding" by crop-dusting with Round-Up.) 

Intrigued?  Watch either (or both) Food Inc. or Killer at Large: Why Obesity is America's Greatest Threat.

The New Daily Scott

Through much thought and discussion I've decided to remove the limits of "The Daily Scott."  My day-to-day activities shall supply topics for examination and sharing.  So, without further ado, The (New) Daily Scott.

A few weeks ago while running on Dick Road, I spotted an owl landing and perching on a telephone pole.  I "who'd" at her or him and she or he flew away.  Notice I said who, owls don't hoot.

Last week I took Jen's Laura to Seattle and went to dinner with Kevin at an Italian restaurant called Bizzarro.  I had gnocchi (pronounced n-yo-key) and Kevin had a sugar-snap pea carbonara.   Both delicious.  I went to the space needle and had fun taking photos (for other people).  Ha ha.  They provide a "complimentary" (pronounced $18) photo shot in front of a green screen.  

Who says getting older means no fun?  On my way home I drove along the coast, discovering a nuclear power plant west of Tacoma (which smells rancid...Tacoma that is).  I stopped at Butte Creek Campground where my mind started playing tricks on me.  The kind of tricks that make you think something's after you.

Its poop again!

Then I almost stepped in bear poo.  And I knew something was after me.  I walked back to the car thinking, "No one knows where I am." combined with, "I'm too young to die!"

Then I got home.  Jen fixed my shark tooth necklace as a nice surprise for my arrival home.  Then I slept.

After the Jamie Cullum concert at the zoo (good show indeed), I was departing the zoo premises when the lion started roaring.  I love nature.  Especially when its caught and penned up for my personal enjoyment.  Tonight the wolves were howling as Jen and I sat on a bench in Hoyt Arboretum.  And, tigers watch you very closely when you're the only person in the park.  Also, I would like to note the free-roaming animals which one might find at the zoo (in order of increasing size) : sparrows, mice, chipmunks, gophers, rabbits, crows, raccoons, and rats.

I think we're mostly caught up now.  Bye

World Cup!

What get me out of bed at 6am?  Work?  That's laughable.  Workout?  Not quite.  Only the greatest sporting event in the world.  That's right, the World Cup!  At 6:30pt tomorrow morning Mexico kicks off against host South Africa on ESPN.  I can't wait.

When asked which team I favor to fare well this year, I realized I hadn't thought about it much.  But, I'll take a shot.  Argentina - I hate that their coach cheated numerous times (think steroids and "Hand of God"), but they'll at least make the final eight and probably advance further.  Netherlands - I've always had a soft spot for their orange jerseys (and can't resist their style of play) and see them advancing. 

USA - not unless American soccer's favorite child can stop choking.  Since Japan/Korea Donovan has been worshiped, but has lost his ability to come through in the clutch.  Howard provides the star keeper that's a must for a run in the Cup, unlike '06 and '98 when Keller manned the box.  While goalies don't win you games, they keep you in them, and advancing to the elimination round can be as simple as riding a hot keeper. 

Spain - an little-noticed, highly-talented squad that just last year ran up a streak of fifteen consecutive international victories.  Who's in the final you ask?  Argentina and the winner of Group G (either Brazil or Portugal).

Primary Elections

In California, a single primary saw over $100 million spent by two candidates in an attempt to reach the governor's seat.  Meg Whitman reportedly spent $71 million of her personal fortune in her battle to win the primary.  The final hurdle of winning control of the state still exists in the general election this fall.

The money that Americans earn legally should be spent as they wish.  But, here's what $70 million could have done to help the state: paid 1000-1400 annual salaries of policemen for one year, paid 100-140 annual salaries of policemen on a continued basis, paid .17% of the state's debt, or boosted the nation's largest higher education system (which faces cuts).  Essentially, she could have helped the state tremendously.

One must wonder, if a candidate carelessly spends $70 million getting into a position, how careful is he or she really going to be with a full state's resources?    

Mandrill Mania

One of the zoo's volunteers has developed an odd relationship with the male mandrill living there.  Somehow, she has become part of the troop.  When anyone approaches this woman, the mandrill runs to the front of the cage, looks at the offending party, then bears his teeth does a move that looks like headbanging, then bounces up and down.  I wouldn't believe it unless I had seen it myself.  Its quite a spectacle.  If you're in the Portland area on a Tuesday or Saturday stop by the zoo and see the mandrill that seems to think the volunteer belongs to him.

40-Something and Counting

In an effort to increase the fine imposed by the President on BP for its Gulf crisis a movement to protest BP products must be enacted.  This effort becomes somewhat strenuous when considering BP's reach.  To simply avoid BP oil products (never-mind any other fields) one must stop visiting/using: ampm, Arco, Aral, Castrol oil products, and generally anything with BP in the name.  After 40-some days of blasting oil into the ocean with no end in sight, the least we can do is find an alternative to BP.

The deep-sea disaster alone provides motive to wave while passing by these stores.  Additionally, the cavalier attitude with which they have approached this massive mishap should convince the toughest of juries; BP does not deserve your business!  It may be true that everyone was doing it (drilling in deep water).  There's also a small chance other companies ignored the signals of a corrupted well.  But, the fact remains that BP's rig exploded while others either utilized sound judgment (likely) or got lucky.  Let BP know how you feel by speaking in the only terms oil knows, send your money to greener pastures.

New Format/Perfect Gamers

So with the issues that I appear to be having writing articles about specific topics each day, I'll be writing on different topics each day, with no set list of topics.

This year in baseball could prove to be an historic one.  Already, two perfect games have been pitched within a matter of three weeks and a third perfecto was stolen from Armando Galarraga last night.  The announcers' reactions in this clip express the disbelief and amazement felt by all at the poor call.

However, it appears as though Bud Selig will be changing the call and this could be the catalyst for instant replay in baseball.  The true major American sports already contain some sort of replay. 

Another interesting note comes from the Florida Marlins, now selling tickets to last week's perfect game pitched by Roy Halladay.  Want to be included in the attendance for the 20th perfect game ever?  They may still be available.

Finally, let's consider the occurrences within the MLB over the last month.  In a matter of a month, two (probably three) perfect games have been pitched.  In the previous 100 plus years, this happened only eighteen times (and only once has it happened twice in a season).

Murder/Crime - The Grandpa Bandit

On Sunday, a man accused of being the robber dubbed the "Grandpa Bandit" by authorities, was taken into custody.  Authorities charged him in connection to seven heists padding his pocketbook to the tune of $36,693.  Sadly, for him, the robbery which led to his arrest pocketed him just over $900.

The fact remains, a 60 year old man walked into six banks, BY HIMSELF, with a pistol in his waste-band, and walked away each time the victor.  Somehow, in this age of advanced technology, super-fantastical security, and always-ready citizen-videographers, it only takes an old man with large cajones to make $35,000 a year.  Just sayin...

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011938727_grandpabandit24m.html

Sports - Sports Nirvana

Early summer provides little entertainment in the sports world.  The NBA ends up with the two largest markets in the finals in an attempt to bring back the glory days of Celtics v. Lakers, Bird v. Magic, etc., etc.  Though I am slightly surprised that the Cavaliers bowed out to the Celtics, I'm sure the Celtics Lakers match-up won't hurt the league's feelings at all.  This reminds me of a recent interview I heard with former NBA referee Tim Donaghy.  He made a strong case supporting the idea that game outcomes can still be predicted based on the referees assigned and the star players on each team.  But enough with the NBA conspiracy theory, sports are boring right now.

However, sports nirvana arrives in a little over two weeks and continues until July 25th.  June 11th marks the start of the worlds largest sporting event in the form of the World Cup.  June 12th proves to provide a litmus test of America's merit this year as they face England.  The late-night games and madness that encompasses a sporting event happening halfway around the world are something I look forward to for the four years lying between each of these great events.  The 2010 World Cup culminates on July 11th.

Adding to the excitement of the World Cup, the annual Tour de France promises excitement as Lance Armstrong returns with a full season of training under his belt in an attempt to recapture the yellow jersey one more time.  The Tour provides the single greatest opportunity to watch the strategy, team-work, and sheer athleticism involved in America's most under-appreciated sport.  This year's tour runs from July 3rd to July 25th covering 3600 kilometers.

Finally, if you see Floyd Landis punch him for me.  He's set about to smear the sport which made him famous simply because he cheated to win.  Eat it Floyd!

Science - The Frankenstein Project

Recently, Doctors Craig Venter and Hamilton Smith reanimated a bacteria's former body with DNA which they sculpted.  "The Economist" wonderfully explains the process in their article titled Genesis redux.

Venter and Smith's next step comes in the form of reanimating an algae cell.  The big step here comes as bacterial DNA simply float around the cell like a hoola hoop, while Algae DNA exist within the nucleus in a chromosomal form.  Chromosomes, rather than being one large loop of information, break the information into smaller sections which are coiled around small proteins which help to compact information that can stretch to two meters for a single cell into the cell's nucleus (a nice description of the process can be found here).  That feat should prove much more difficult than the already accomplished reanimation of bacteria.

The more impressive move, however, would be to construct the actual cell from its natural ingredients, then animate it.  While Venter and Smith proved Mary Shelley's visions of future scientific endeavors factual, they have still fallen short of creating life.  Darwin's evolution theory would find its cornerstone should the actual creation of a cell be replicated.  The feat lies on the horizon and may signal the coming of a new age in science and religion.

Side note: I've been wondering if Smith or Venter said anything to the liking of, "Let there be life," while inserting the DNA into the cells.  Just something to ponder.

http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/sciences/zoology/animalphysiology/anatomy/animalcellstructure/Nucleus/Nucleus.htm
http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=16163006

Food - Shrimp Tapas

While searching for tapas recipes I found the basis for last night's meal.  The results were quite tasty.

In my adventure I bought fresh shrimp and discovered it is worth the dollar a pound you pay them to clean them.

I mixed goat cheese with a sprinkle of paprika, some basil, parsley, and cumin.  Then, I took said cheese mixture and placed into said shrimp, then wrapped this delicious combination tightly in prosciutto.  I put them over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes a side (until the tails turned pink).  I drizzled them with black truffle oil, but it would have been just as tasty just as they came out of the pan.

Enjoy!!!

Television and Entertainment - Ode to BBC

A recent move left me without BBC.  The absence of perhaps my favorite channel has brought forth two revelations.  First, Comcast sucks (but I'm trying to be more positive, so I'll leave them alone).  Second, BBC may boast the best set of shows available on television today.

For example, who can resist Gordon Ramsey on Kitchen Nightmares?  In the show Master Chef Ramsey (a genius restaurateur) goes to struggling restaurants (by invitation) and helps them get out of the muck.  He's never gentle, seldom courteous, but always 100% correct in how to turn each business around.  Show grade: A.

Another great show on BBC goes by the name of The Dragons' Den.  This show sees a panel of five of Britain's smartest investors and business women and men hosting potential business partners.  Each guest (sometimes two people) pitches her or his idea to the panel in an attempt to gain an investment for a share of the guest's company.  This show's brilliance appears in countless invention and business ideas, its intimidating setting, and the sheer guts required to face the Dragons and request money.  Show grade: B+

Not to mention, BBC boasts the longest-running sci-fi television series ever.  Doctor Who launched in 1963 and ran for 27 seasons through 1989.  After a fifteen year hiatus, Doctor Who picked up where it left off for another four seasons.  This science-fiction classic has become a British classic and must be mentioned on the lists of greatest television shows of all time, if not only for its longevity.  Show grade: A

While these shows will draw my attention over most programming, perhaps the show most missed is BBC World News America.  As an American it can be difficult to remember that there are actually other countries in this world.  While America may be the major player in world ________________ (possible entries for blank = economy, politics, etc.) there are other events much more news-worthy occurring world-wide on a daily basis.  Thank you BBC World News America for keeping priorities straight and reporting on events in Africa over "Balloon Boy" or other American media debacles.  The refreshment provided by BBC World News America drinks like a glass of lemonade on a hot summer evening.  Show grade: A+

Other BBC shows merit mentioning:
Top Gear
Gordon Ramsay's F-Word
Coupling
The Graham Norton Show
Last Restaurant Standing
You Are What You Eat
Antiques Roadshow

World View - Why Not War?

Recently, a North Korean submarine sunk a South Korean. Even more recently investigators pulled the shell of a North Korean torpedo from the wreckage.  "How has the international community responded?" you ask.

China refuses to accept the investigation's results which point the finger at North Korea, but urges restraint.

Japan's leaders scolded North Korea.

America's reaction "strongly condemned" the actions.

South Korea pledges to take "stern action."

North Korea and South Korea have conflicted since their inception.  The two nations spawned as aftermath of World War II and these predecessors of the Cold War remain at war still today.  While it would be simple to blame the issues of today on current leaders, the roots of the problem must be confronted.

The Cold War ended with the fall of the Soviet Union, for the Soviet Union and United States.  The aftershock still lingers in North and South Korea.  Wonder why there are so many problems between the neighbors on the Korean Peninsula?  Consider the former U.S.S.R. and the good ole U.S.A.

Still, something must be done to fix the communism/democracy struggle which meets face-to-face in North and South Korea, the issue can not be pushed aside much longer.

Twos Day Debates - Should the Penal System Rehabilitate

While watching In Session today (yes, i watch that show) the quandary arose of whether the American penal system aims at punishment or rehab.  Of course the penal system means to punish, but is that the target upon which our justice system should hold its sights?

Yes (the penal system should be meant to merely punish).  Primarily, the sociological tool of prison acts as a deterrent.  To a point, this proves effective.  However, the question becomes, how much should be done for prisoners for their own benefit and the benefit of society as a whole?  The rights of prisoners should remain as minimal as possible in order to keep the punishment's effects high.  While prisoners should in no way be abused either mentally or physically, the modern pattern of prisoner's rights has perhaps gone too far (i.e. - those on death row should not be there for years and years, prisoners should not have access to television, etc.).    Prison should be nothing like society to remove any sliver of appeal to prisoners or released prisoners.

No (the penal system does not do enough for prisoners and should be geared more toward rehabilitation). Supposing that society's holds net improvement as a major goal, the prison systems must be used to rehabilitate prisoners.  What good is 3% of the population sitting in prison?  First, they're no longer productive (thanks to changes in the way prisons are run).  Secondly, every person in prison creates a net loss monetarily for the state or country.  In essence, each individual in prison counts twice against any gains that are made by the United States as a whole (that's only taking into account the prisoners themselves, the number would skyrocket if family members, etc. were included).  Why not spend a little more money on rehabilitation and in return reduce the number repeat offenders?  Drug dealers are kings of networking, give them a helping hand into the business world.  Help drug addicts by providing therapy, getting them to discover why they used and aiding in their recovery in the outside world.  The point being, a great number (if not a majority) of inmates would choose to avoid prison had the option presented itself.

Murder/Crime - The Innocence Project

Just twelve days ago Raymond Towler, a wrongfully-convicted Ohio man, departed prison.  Imprisoned more than 28 years ago, Towler, finally had his innocence proven with the help of The Innocence Project.  The Innocence Project aims at releasing wrongfully-imprisoned inmates through the use of DNA.

Raymond Towler walked away from prison as only one of more than 250 people helped by the The Innocence Project.  However, the fight for those falsely imprisoned only starts when he or she walks away from prison.  For example, many of the released prisoners never have the charges removed from her or his record.  Additionally, a majority don't receive compensation, monetary or otherwise, (with 23 states having no laws to help those that have been in prison for committing no crime) for spending years behind bars while not having been involved in the crime for which they have been convicted. 

Just imagine losing thirteen years, often thirteen prime years, of your life (the average time spent behind bars for those exonerated) to the desolation, loneliness, and horror of prison life.  Then, imagine you were actually napping, driving somewhere, or playing a card game when the crime you've been convicted of took place.  So you've been sitting behind bars for a crime you didn't commit.  Finally, imagine that when you get out you have: no house, no job, no family, no savings, no resume, no job history, no friends, no network, no social skills, no computer skills (think where computers were thirteen years ago), then remember that I'm not in this situation and these are likely the least of the recently released citizen's worries.  Not to be forgotten, usually those released after being wrongfully-imprisoned maintain the marks on their criminal records.

http://www.innocenceproject.org/

Sports - In Case You Missed It

Last Sunday (Mother's Day) Dallas Braden of the Oakland A's pitched the 19th perfect game in the history of Major League Baseball.  As I drove around Portland last week and heard the replayed play-by-play of the final out of Braden's outing, it came to me that I should start a blog.  Somehow, Braden provided the inspiration for the start of my first daily blog based on a variety of news topics.

Now to the topic at hand.  Most likely the day provided the inspiration as Braden's mother passed during his high school senior year.  Whatever the motivation, the feat is incredible.  Props for Braden as he joins an elite list of players to pitch a perfect game.

Finally, Braden has announced his arrival to the majors, but the journey is long, and many pitchers last until they're forty.  The challenge now becomes persisting and improving to not only pitch a perfect game, but to prove that this perfect game should not be labeled a farce.

Science - Nanobots Constructed of DNA

"Wha?!" you may have exclaimed as you read the title to this post.  Or possibly your reaction closer resembled a disinterested, "Meh."  Either way, stick with me to consider the implications this type of discovery could possibly hold for science, medicine in particular.

Two separate research groups developed these nanobots (not sure bot is the correct term - which will be discussed later) using pieces of DNA.  Yes, DNA, the stuff that is inside the nucleus, which is inside the cell which is much to small to see with the naked eye (usually).

One set of bots was able to start walking along a path, turn along this path, and stop.  The other, amazingly, formed a sort of assembly line and placed small particles into eight different configurations.

These bots could find countless uses in medicine as they act as drug-delivery agents, cell-identifiers, chemical signals, or as any number of medical nano-tools.  For example, consider a nanobot which carries the newly-designed nanogold particle to a recognized cancer cell, delivering the cargo.  Later, a skin-penetrating (harmless) laser aims at the gold particles and warms the tumor to a temperature at which it can not survive.  The only limit to this new discovery lies in scientists' imaginations.

Finally, consider the make-up of these new nanobots.  They're made of DNA.  The same blueprint for life planet-wide has now been incorporated into a "bot."  Seems the proper terminology here would be something closer to a nanobug, nanoanimal, or some sort of nano life.  The term selection of bot can easily be understood when considering the possible philosophical and sociological ramifications that would accompany the announcement of some new wonderbug created by man (not God, oh my!).   Just something to think about.

Also, please note, I hate the picture that accompanies the WSJ online article.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704247904575240380352719428.html
http://technologyreview.com/biomedicine/18999/?a=f

Food - Mussels

Yesterday I ventured to the coast aiming at harvesting some mussels (nothing difficult) and returned with ten large mussels probably weighing in around two or three pounds.  I also enjoyed some crabbing and brought home a nice-sized Dungenness (caught in Nehalem Bay) for dinner.

After cleaning (the Mussels), cooking, and cleaning (the crab) we gathered round the table for a culinary delight presented by the sea.  Great disappointment overcame the room and hung in the air as my first self-harvested mussel experiment unfolded disastrously.

First, the bissel threads, or "beard," proved impossible to remove before steaming (maybe I just didn't try hard enough).  Thus, the first task of removing the threads after cooking made the mussel itself less appealing.  Secondly, they're textured nothing at all like a clam.  While possessing pleasantly mild flavors, the organ-like texture promptly turned them from delicacy to disgusting.  If anyone knows a remedy for this I'd be glad to hear.

P.S. - Crab = delicious as usual.

Television and Entertainment - American Idol

Casey??  How is Casey in the final three?  I don't understand that one.  Michael > Casey.  Explanation exists in two events from Tuesday's show.

First, Michael let slip that his goal was to make the final three.  Baaaaaaaad move, "America" saw this as him settling before he had even reached the goal.  If he had said he set the goal of winning people wouldn't have been as harsh.

Second, Casey got severely embarrassed by the judges and this possible romantic interest being teased gained Casey the super sympathy vote.

On a slightly different note check out the belittling, demeaning ways show hosts are now allowed to act.  The first one is more severe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zy_f1KOUlpA&feature=player_embedded#!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHCrGYEOGtU

World View - How Quickly We Forget

That little Caribbean country that less that four months ago hosted one of the deadliest natural disasters in man's history.  What's the last thing you remember hearing about Haiti?  Perhaps a plea to donate some money, as many did (applause to those who gave). 

However, recently, protests have begun in the streets as President René Préval threatens to take advantage of the disaster by staying in office an extra ninety days in order to "help" the election process.  This comes only days after a group co-chaired by Preval set forth to hold elections in a timely manner, namely February 2011.

The idea that a man's future in politics relies on the ability of a committee he co-chairs to coordinate election seems impractical, corrupt, and ironically comical.  Optimism in the good of humanity can not overcome the obvious wrong-doings that occurred or may occur.  Those at the top require greater strength simply to resist the temptations presented.  Here's to hoping President Preval's heart holds true. (Or maybe better to wish that he set out with good intentions.)

The riot and elections aren't the only things happening in Haiti, here's a few links if you've got an itch to catch up on the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37094192/ns/health-more_health_news/
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=34666&Cr=haiti&Cr1=
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8674076.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/1202772.stm