url
stringlengths 36
564
| archive
stringlengths 78
537
| title
stringlengths 0
1.04k
| date
stringlengths 10
14
| text
stringlengths 0
629k
| summary
stringlengths 1
35.4k
| compression
float64 0
106k
| coverage
float64 0
1
| density
float64 0
1.14k
| compression_bin
stringclasses 3
values | coverage_bin
stringclasses 3
values | density_bin
stringclasses 3
values |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901760.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901760.html
|
Health Care's Political Fractures
|
2006051019
|
Congress is in the throes of its biannual attempts to fix a broken health insurance system, a top-priority concern for just about everyone. But rather than actually get something done, legislators have opted again for stalemate and partisan acrimony.
Republicans are engaged in a largely cynical exercise to blame government regulation for everything that's wrong with the insurance market while offering to reward their friends in the small-business lobby with a lucrative new health insurance franchise. The proposal they back requires them to ignore everything they've ever said about federalism and states' rights.
Democrats, meanwhile, are up to their old tricks, pandering to special interests -- this time, the "disease" groups -- and relying on scare tactics meant to convince us we'll all end up with higher premiums for health insurance that covers nothing. And after a century of arguing for a strong federal government, liberal Democrats are suddenly horrified at the idea that the federal government might preempt state regulation.
We'll get to the details in a moment. But the tragedy is that there's actually a deal to be had, if only both sides would accept the idea that half a loaf is better than nothing. There is also a golden opportunity here for George Bush, who -- if he chose to broker such a deal -- could put some life back into his dying presidency.
The legislation, being debated this week in the Senate, is ostensibly designed to allow small-business groups to market nationally what presumably would be lower-cost health plans to member firms. It would override state laws that mandate which services must be covered and how rates must be set. The idea is to give small businesses -- too many of which don't offer employee health insurance because of the high cost -- some of the same advantages big businesses have.
The National Federation of Independent Businesses has been pushing this for years, in part because it sees an opportunity to make money selling insurance to an expanded membership base. The idea has attracted a number of strident opponents:
· State insurance regulators and legislators, whose power would be curtailed;
· Other insurers, who think it unfair that they would have to continue to abide by state mandates while competitors would not;
|
Here they go again. Congress is in the throes of its biannual attempts to fix a broken health insurance system, a top-priority concern for just about everyone. But rather than actually get something done, legislators have opted again for stalemate and partisan acrimony.
| 8.6 | 0.98 | 40.58 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901455.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901455.html
|
The Year of the Black Republican?
|
2006051019
|
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- When J. Kenneth Blackwell took the stage here on May 2 to claim the Republican nomination for governor, he became something more than his party's standard-bearer in a bellwether state.
The Ohio secretary of state -- a crusading conservative with an appetite for political combat -- also assumed a leading role in his party's latest effort to break the Democrats' decades-long grip on the black vote.
Blackwell, who will face Democratic Rep. Ted Strickland in November, is now the third prominent African American on a statewide Republican ballot this fall. In Maryland, Lt. Gov. Michael S. Steele, whose candidacy has benefited from his friendship with two Republican National Committee chairmen, is the party's nominee to fill the seat of retiring Democratic Sen. Paul S. Sarbanes. In Pennsylvania, former Pittsburgh Steelers star Lynn Swann is challenging Democratic Gov. Edward G. Rendell.
Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal first brought African Americans into the Democratic coalition in the 1930s, and Lyndon B. Johnson's 1960s support for civil rights legislation cemented their allegiance. In the subsequent four decades, Republicans have seen their presidential candidates win a dwindling share of the black vote. It hit bottom in 2000, when George W. Bush managed to garner just 8 percent of the votes of African Americans.
It is that formidable history that Blackwell, Steele and Swann are trying to overcome.
The three are running on similar platforms of lower taxes, smaller government, and opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage, but they come to their contests with different credentials. Blackwell has a long résumé in elective office and conservative causes. Steele is a former state party chairman but has never been elected on his own. Swann is a true political novice, albeit one with the star quality of a Hall of Fame wide receiver.
All three begin as underdogs. Independent polls have shown Steele starting the campaign as much as 15 points behind the Democratic front-runner. Blackwell trailed by 10 percentage points in a pre-primary Mason-Dixon poll for the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Swann trails Rendell in the polls and has lost ground since entering the race earlier this year.
All three black candidates face significant obstacles. In heavily Democratic Maryland, Steele must win a big share of the black vote in a state where African Americans account for 28 percent of the population, almost three times the percentages in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Swann must overcome rookie mistakes that have plagued his campaign in the early months. Blackwell is running into head winds created by GOP scandals in Ohio and by lingering resentment in the African American community over voting problems in the 2004 election, which he oversaw as secretary of state.
Together, they embody a new chapter in the Republican Party's often-failed efforts to appeal to African Americans, a strategy shaped by RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman, who last year apologized for the GOP's Nixon-era "Southern strategy" of exploiting white resentment over integration.
"We've gone from a model of outreach to a model of inclusion," Mehlman said. "Outreach is a top-down approach. Inclusion says, 'Let's find some really good people and encourage them to run for office.' "
Republicans such as Mehlman say it will take more than one political cycle to change the habits of African American voters, and some Democrats say it will take more than a few attractive black Republican candidates to overcome GOP positions -- on affirmative action and other issues -- that many blacks view as anathema to their interests.
|
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- When J. Kenneth Blackwell took the stage here on May 2 to claim the Republican nomination for governor, he became something more than his party's standard-bearer in a bellwether state. Though all three African American candidates are breaking fresh ground for the Republican...
| 12.773585 | 0.924528 | 29 |
low
|
medium
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901841.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901841.html
|
Of U.S. Children Under 5, Nearly Half Are Minorities
|
2006051019
|
Nearly half of the nation's children under 5 are racial or ethnic minorities, and the percentage is increasing mainly because the Hispanic population is growing so rapidly, according to a census report released today.
Hispanics are the nation's largest and fastest-growing minority group. They accounted for 49 percent of the country's growth from 2004 to 2005, the report shows. And the increase in young children is largely a Hispanic story, driving 70 percent of the growth in children younger than 5. Forty-five percent of U.S. children younger than 5 are minorities.
The new numbers offer a preview of demographic shifts to come, with broad implications for the nation's schools, workforce and Social Security.
One in three Americans is now a member of a minority group, a share that is bound to rise, because the non-Hispanic white population is older and growing much more slowly. The country already is engaged in a national debate about how government should respond to growing immigration, legal and illegal.
In some parts of the country, the transformation is more visible than in others. Large swaths of the upper Midwest are still mainly non-Hispanic white. But minorities are a majority of children younger than 5 in the Washington area, according to previously released census numbers. That is also true in Miami, Houston, Los Angeles and other high-immigration regions.
William H. Frey, a demographer with the Brookings Institution, predicted that the United States will have "a multicultural population that will probably be more tolerant, accommodating to other races and more able to succeed in a global economy."
There could be increased competition for money and power, he added: "The older, predominantly white baby-boom generations will need to accommodate younger, multiethnic young adults and child populations in civic life, political decisions and sharing of government resources" in places such as the Washington suburbs.
In some suburban communities, government officials face a cultural generation gap as they weigh demands from older white residents for senior citizen centers, transportation and other aid against requests from younger, mainly minority residents for translation assistance, preschools and other services.
Experts say immigrant families are becoming more concerned with the quality of their children's early education, aware that it can affect their future academic success. That is one reason there is a waiting list at the Child and Family Network Centers, a preschool in Alexandria.
The centers, which also operate a preschool in Arlington, provide free and subsidized preschools for about 200 children from low-income families. They serve many immigrants, including those who don't qualify for other programs. The waiting list is 150 children long. Eight out 10 speak English as a second language, and 70 percent are Latino.
"Oh, here's the chrysalis," said teacher Maria Cruz, pointing to a picture in a book as 4- and 5-year-olds crowded around her for story time yesterday. "Every day, the chrysalis looks the same -- we can't see anything happening, but inside, something is happening."
Emely Lopez, 5, raised her hand and pointed to a real butterfly cocoon in a container by the window. "Hay una alli" -- there's one there -- she said in Spanish, pointing at it. Cruz nodded encouragingly.
|
Nearly half of the nation's children under 5 are racial or ethnic minorities, and the percentage is increasing mainly because the Hispanic population is growing so rapidly, according to a census report released today.
| 16.789474 | 1 | 38 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901644.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901644.html
|
AOL to Cut 1,300 Workers In U.S.
|
2006051019
|
AOL LLC said yesterday that it will reduce its workforce by 7 percent, or 1,300 employees, many of them call-center workers whose job was to persuade members not to cancel Internet service subscriptions.
The Dulles company said it closed its Jacksonville, Fla., center yesterday and laid off all 780 employees there and more than 100 others in Ogden, Utah. About 300 employees in Tucson are to be let go in June, the company said. The announcement affected four or five Washington area employees who worked for the same division.
Just last year, AOL offered the same call-center employees bonuses for every subscriber they talked out of canceling service. After consumers complained it was too difficult to sever ties with the company and New York Attorney General Eliot L. Spitzer claimed AOL's practices were not consumer-friendly, AOL agreed to stop, ending the employee incentives in August 2005.
AOL said the layoffs yesterday reflected a shift in the company's membership base. Since January, the company has been moving toward a revenue model that relies heavily on online advertising instead of solely on monthly fees from dial-up subscribers.
"AOL is a different company today," said spokesman Nicholas J. Graham. "Our membership base has changed greatly over time."
Graham characterized AOL's users as more online-savvy today and less dependent on customer-service support over the phone. Call volume to the company's customer-support centers has fallen 50 percent since 2004, he said, and more customers are finding answers to their questions and problems at the troubleshooting section of its Web site. "What took several phone calls to accomplish before, today takes a couple of clicks," he said.
In October, AOL closed its Orlando office, eliminating 450 call-center jobs. The company's other call centers in Oklahoma City and Albuquerque remained largely unaffected by the announcement yesterday.
Graham declined to say how much money the company will save because of the layoffs, but the move comes at a time when AOL's parent company, Time Warner Inc., has been pressured to cut costs and boost its stagnant stock price. In a recent concession to activist shareholder Carl C. Icahn, Time Warner agreed to cut $500 million in costs this year and $500 million next year. AOL said the layoffs will be accounted for in earnings for the second and third quarters.
Some analysts have said that AOL's financial future remains uncertain as it tries to find its way among competitors and within the Time Warner brand. In a research note after Time Warner's quarterly earnings were issued earlier this month, analyst Katherine Styponias of Prudential Equity Group LLC said "the AOL division's financial outlook continues to be murky and likely remains an overhang on the stock."
|
AOL LLC said yesterday that it will reduce its workforce by 7 percent, or 1,300 employees, many of them call-center workers whose job was to persuade members not to cancel Internet service subscriptions.
| 14 | 1 | 38 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900953.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900953.html
|
No Power Play, Rumsfeld Says
|
2006051019
|
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld dismissed the idea that he has been involved in a bureaucratic power play to boost the military's role in intelligence-gathering, and strongly supported Air Force Gen. Michael V. Hayden's nomination to be the next director of the CIA, describing him yesterday as a seasoned professional.
"He did not come up through the operational chain in the Department of Defense, and at the last minute slide over into the intelligence business," Rumsfeld said of Hayden at a news conference. "He's a person who's had assignment after assignment after assignment in the intelligence business, and clearly, that is what his career has been, and he's been very good at it."
Rumsfeld was even more emphatic in denying that tensions exist inside the government over the Pentagon's growing role in intelligence.
"There's no power play taking place in Washington," he said, insisting that he has had good relationships with John D. Negroponte, the first director of national intelligence, and with former CIA directors George J. Tenet and Porter J. Goss. "I feel very good about the relationships," he said.
Rumsfeld's comments came as Hayden made the rounds on Capitol Hill in preparation for confirmation hearings that could begin as early as Tuesday in both open and closed sessions.
Meanwhile, debate continued over whether this is the right time for an active-duty military officer to lead the government's chief civilian intelligence operation. For some, Rumsfeld's recent moves to bolster the Pentagon's intelligence-gathering operations have added to that concern. House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) told reporters yesterday that "I don't think a military guy should be head of CIA, frankly."
Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, said Hayden should retire from the military to "take care of that issue," the Associated Press reported. Feinstein would not say whether she is leaning toward supporting him. She called his part in an National Security Agency eavesdropping program "a very major concern."
But Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) said that Hayden "probably has as much or more expertise in regards to intelligence as anyone."
"He is highly professional," Roberts told reporters. "I think that trumps any concerns that others may have."
During his briefing, Rumsfeld dismissed talk of bureaucratic feuding as "pedestrian and unimpressive."
Rumsfeld did confirm that he had disagreed with Hayden in 2004 when the general, who then headed the NSA, advocated transferring the agency from the Defense Department to the office of the director of national intelligence, which was about to be created as part of an intelligence overhaul.
Rumsfeld has worked to expand the military's role in intelligence since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. He has expressed frustration with the inability of the intelligence bureaucracy to quickly produce targeting information.
He has had the Special Operations Command focus far more on missions to kill or capture terrorists and their supporters. He also won approval for man-hunting teams to operate in other nations without the knowledge of the U.S. ambassadors in those countries, according to intelligence officials. And he has increased the Pentagon's ability to collect and analyze "human intelligence," which traditionally was the preserve of the CIA.
Rumsfeld said that he is trying "to fulfill my statutory responsibility . . . to see that our commanders have the kind of information they need."
Rumsfeld also commented on the mistaken intelligence that led to the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, describing himself as a consumer of that product. "It turns out it was wrong, that intelligence," he said. But he said it was the same information that was available to members of Congress and other nations.
That is the account provided recently by other administration officials, in sharp contrast to the stance of the administration during the run-up to the war. For example, on Sept. 8, 2002, Vice President Cheney said on NBC's "Meet the Press" that those who doubted his assertions about the threat posed by Iraq had not "seen all the intelligence that we have seen."
|
Latest politics news headlines from Washington DC. Follow 2006 elections, campaigns, Democrats, Republicans, political cartoons, opinions from The Washington Post. Features government policy, government tech, political analysis and reports.
| 20.948718 | 0.487179 | 0.538462 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901628.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901628.html
|
Bush Backs Monday Deadline For Seniors
|
2006051019
|
President Bush insisted yesterday that the May 15 deadline for picking a Medicare prescription drug plan will stand, even as key Republican lawmakers suggested they may take action retroactively to protect people who miss the Monday cutoff.
Speaking yesterday at a retirement community in Sun City Center, Fla., Bush urged eligible seniors to act quickly. "Deadlines are important," he said. "Deadlines help people understand there's finality, and people need to get after it, you know?"
Republicans on Capitol Hill said that while they hope as many people as possible sign up before the deadline, they are willing to revisit certain coverage terms.
"There are all kinds of resources to help people make a good decision," said Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa), whose panel has jurisdiction over the drug program. "I don't want to discourage anyone from taking action by the May 15 deadline, so I'll consider what might be done to help those who miss the deadline after next Monday."
Republican aides said Congress could well end up waiving the monthly penalty for seniors who are not currently covered by a comparable private or state-run drug plan. One scenario under consideration would give seniors until the end of the year to choose a plan, before the extra fee takes effect.
With the deadline looming, about 5.7 million of the 42 million seniors and disabled people eligible for the drug program have not signed up. Government officials and outside advocates say the response has been lowest among those who stand to reap the greatest benefit from the program: the one-third of senior citizens who are low-income.
Families USA, an advocacy group, estimates that fewer than one in four low-income senior citizens have enrolled, despite an expensive government outreach to educate people.
"Contrary to promises by the president and congressional leaders, low-income seniors are not receiving help to make their medicines affordable," said Ron Pollack, executive director of Families USA. "These are the very people who need help the most, yet the administration's promises to them are much more rhetorical than real."
The administration announced yesterday that it would waive the deadline for low-income seniors, who account for about half of the 5.7 million eligible seniors who have yet to enroll in any drug plan.
Julie Goon, director of Medicare outreach for the Department of Health and Human Services, told reporters that low-income seniors face a two-step process, having to first apply for a subsidy through Social Security, making the registration process more laborious. Also, the penalty that low-income seniors face would be so minimal, "it would cost more to collect it than it would be to actually have the value of that penalty collected," Goon said.
The penalty equals 1 percent of the national average premium for each month an eligible beneficiary goes without drug insurance. Currently, the average premium nationwide is $32.50 per month, which translates into a penalty of 33 cents a month. Under current law, seniors who decide to sign up in December 2006 -- or seven months late -- would pay $2.31 per month on top of the monthly premium for whatever plan they select. There is no cap on the number of months the penalty may be assessed.
For months, Democrats have sought to push back the enrollment date to allow seniors more time to sort through the different insurance packages being offered. In some regions, that number can top 40 plans, all with different premiums, co-payments, coverage gaps, preferred drugs and so on.
Wary of the potentially grave fiscal and political consequences if the program flops, the administration and Republican lawmakers have worked aggressively since last fall to get seniors covered. GOP House members in particular have held countless registration workshops in conjunction with local elderly service providers and federal Medicare experts.
Over the weekend, Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt visited several African American churches as part of "Sign Up Sunday," which featured enrollment assistance after services.
The administration also has enlisted Hispanic organizations to help with outreach. Senate Democratic Leader Harry M. Reid (Nev.) and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) will join more than 200 seniors at an event today to call for an extension, and some Republicans also support a delay.
"People are confused," said Sen. Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine).
Fletcher reported from Sun City Center, Fla.
|
President Bush insisted yesterday that the May 15 deadline for picking a Medicare prescription drug plan will stand, even as key Republican lawmakers suggested they may take action retroactively to protect people who miss the Monday cutoff.
| 22.153846 | 1 | 39 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900811.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900811.html
|
Deadly Deception at an Iraqi Market
|
2006051019
|
BAGHDAD, May 9 -- Attracting a crowd by hawking flour at half-price from a pickup truck, a suicide attacker in the northern city of Tall Afar on Tuesday detonated bombs hidden beneath the flour sacks, killing at least 19 people, many of them women shopping with children, police said.
Situated near the border with Syria, about 240 miles northwest of Baghdad, Tall Afar has been the focus of two large U.S.-led military offensives and was held up by President Bush in March as a model in the fight against Iraq's insurgency. "The example of Tall Afar gives me confidence in our strategy," Bush said in a speech meant to bolster flagging U.S. popular support for and confidence in the war.
On Tuesday, carrying victims from a marketplace strewn with shrapnel, puddled with blood and reeking of burned flesh, a 50-year-old Tall Afar resident mourned the return of full-scale bloodletting.
"The city is living in a state of horror which it has not seen" since before U.S. and Iraqi troops drove out insurgents in November, said Ali Ghalib, reached at the city's main hospital as he helped bring in wounded victims. The hospital was treating 35 wounded people, and about 15 others were treated elsewhere, said Salih al-Qado, the hospital director.
The bomber struck about 8:30 p.m., targeting a market in a Shiite Muslim neighborhood as families made last-minute purchases for the day.
U.S. and Iraqi security forces held the devastated market late Tuesday, and U.S. military helicopters hovered overhead.
Tall Afar had been the hub of a vicious but fairly localized insurgency before the U.S. Army and Iraqi troops drove insurgents off in November with a large-scale military operation. The combined forces then settled into the city to keep out the insurgents with a plan based partly on winning cooperation of residents and maintaining patrols.
Residents said at the time of Bush's March speech that insurgent attacks were fewer but that insurgents were sneaking back into the city and sectarian killings were rising.
On Saturday, American commanders called in F-16 warplanes to suppress a small-arms attack on U.S.-led forces in the area.
The evening bombing overshadowed an earlier attack in Suwayrah, a Sunni Arab town about 20 miles southeast of Baghdad where police recovered the bodies of 11 people. Nine had been beheaded, including a 10-year-old boy, said Capt. Muthanna Ahmed of the provincial police force.
Gunmen on Monday killed four Iraqi police officers in Ramadi and two Iraqi soldiers in Tikrit, two predominantly Sunni cities. Also Monday, a bomb killed an American soldier in Baghdad.
U.S. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad held out hope Tuesday that violence would ease when Iraq finally seats its first permanent government since the fall of Saddam Hussein. "The formation of a government of national unity will set the stage for efforts to diminish violence," Khalilzad said, adding that "Iraq is strategically heading in the right direction now."
Khalilzad spoke at a business conference meant to drum up foreign investment in Iraq. Sponsors held the convention in neighboring Jordan because Iraq is too dangerous.
Sunnis, Shiites, Kurds and secularists have dickered over cabinet posts for nearly five months. After a dispute over the nominee for prime minister was settled last month, haggling moved on to the issue of control of the Interior and Defense ministries. With sectarian killings rising since late February, the Shiite and Sunni communities each fear allowing the other full control of the army and national police.
Nouri al-Maliki, the prime minister-designate, told reporters at a news conference that all sides had agreed on independent candidates -- without ties to Shiite militias or other armed groups or political parties -- for the Interior and Defense posts. He declined to name them, although at least one Shiite leader said former prime minister Ayad Allawi was slated for Defense.
The main posts yet to be agreed upon are the Oil, Transport and Trade ministries, Maliki said.
Maliki promised Tuesday that his administration would be "a national-unity government that doesn't marginalize anyone of those who want to serve the country. I have found that there will be no harm if I gave more time to form a government."
Brwari reported from Mosul. Special correspondents Omar Fekeiki in Baghdad, Saad Sarhan in Najaf, Salih Saif Aldin in northern Iraq and other Washington Post staff members contributed to this report.
|
BAGHDAD, May 9 -- Attracting a crowd by hawking flour at half-price from a pickup truck, a suicide attacker in the northern city of Tall Afar on Tuesday detonated bombs hidden beneath the flour sacks, killing at least 19 people, many of them women shopping with children, police said.
| 14.859649 | 1 | 57 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901925.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050901925.html
|
Four Little Peppers & How They Grew
|
2006051019
|
Anyone still nursing unpleasant memories of "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" and other high-concept, pleasureless double albums will be happy to hear that "Stadium Arcadium," the new two-disc set from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, is blessedly free of artistic pretensions. It's not ambitious, just big: Here are a lot of songs, the Peppers seem to be saying. You're welcome.
The Peppers are one of those acts who merely by surviving have become more interesting, like Merle Haggard or Journey. And while "Stadium Arcadium," their ninth album, won't exactly put anybody in mind of "Exile on Main Street" (or even "Exile in Guyville"), it's likely the best thing the band has ever done, the end result of their logical progression from melody-challenged frat house funk rockers to ballad-happy, middle-aged funk rockers.
The band reportedly toyed with releasing "Stadium" as three separate discs, but the collection, whittled to 28 judiciously edited tracks spread over two discs, "Jupiter" and "Mars," works better as a set piece. Produced by "BloodSugarSexMagik" midwife Rick Rubin, it's a cheery, sprawling compound of funk, metal, classic pop and bottom-heavy ballads that feels both familiar and mildly adventurous.
"Stadium" gets most of its wallop from guitarist John Frusciante, who supplies the discs with more solos than they might reasonably need (guitar solos, like double albums, being holdovers from an era for which exactly no one is nostalgic), and inimitable bassist Flea. Both show an unerring knack for knowing just when to convert a languishing ballad into a funk-metal rave-up, or just when to inject a fillip of psychedelia, jazz or disco into an otherwise pleasantly unremarkable mid-tempo track.
And frontman Anthony Kiedis isn't half-bad, either: He sings more than he raps, which means he sounds more considered and less oafish than usual. But the Peppers' penchant for indecipherable and probably skeevy wordplay can run headlong into their newfound fondness for balladry: Lines like "A rainy Lithuanian/Who's dancing as an Indian/Painted in my tiger skin" sound a lot better when you're not trying to mean them.
"Stadium" is daffy in ways only four men who once wore tube socks on their privates could make it. It is prone to wince-inducing puns and insular as well -- except for a random reference to Kazakhstan, the Peppers give no indication they realize it's 2006 outside.
But from its opening triple punch (the modified psychedelic pop of first single "Dani California," the jammy "Snow" and the great, fidgety exercise in funk "Charlie") through its flab-free middle, "Stadium Arcadium" is a better record than any band in the presumptive autumn of its career could rightly be expected to make. It goes wobbly only toward the end, with a few perfunctory closeout tracks (the otherwise unremarkable 26th song, "We Believe," even offers up the couplet "The risk is/It worth it/The disc is/It perfect?" just to make sure you're still paying attention) making it feel only slightly longer than it should.
But fans, collectors and other gluttons for punishment, take note: Ten songs that didn't make the final cut will likely be made available as bonus tracks or iTunes downloads, testing the theory that it's impossible to have too much of a good thing.
DOWNLOAD THESE: "Charlie," "Readymade," "21st Century," "Torture Me."
|
Anyone still nursing unpleasant memories of "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" and other high-concept, pleasureless double albums will be happy to hear that "Stadium Arcadium," the new two-disc set from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, is blessedly free of artistic pretensions. It's not ambitious,...
| 11.8 | 0.983333 | 58.016667 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400663.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400663.html
|
Dirda on Books
|
2006051019
|
Prize-winning columnist Michael Dirda takes your questions and comments concerning literature, books and the joys of reading.
Each week Dirda's name appears -- in unmistakably big letters -- on page 15 of The Post's Book World section. If he's not reviewing a hefty literary biography or an ambitious new novel, he's likely to be turning out one of his idiosyncratic essays or rediscovering some minor Victorian classic. Although he earned a Ph.D. in comparative literature from Cornell, Dirda has somehow managed to retain a myopic 12-year-old's passion for reading. Heparticularly enjoys comic novels, intellectual history, locked-room mysteries, innovative fiction of all sorts.
These days, Dirda says he still spends inordinate amounts of time mourning his lost youth, listening to music (Glenn Gould, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, The Tallis Scholars), and daydreaming ("my only real hobby"). He claims that the happiest hours of his week are spent sitting in front of a computer, working. His most recent books include "Readings: Essays and Literary Entertainments" (Indiana hardcover, 2000; Norton paperback, 2003) and his self-portrait of the reader as a young man, "An Open Book: Coming of Age in the Heartland" (Norton, 2003). In the fall of 2004 Norton will bring out a new collection of his essays and reviews. He is currently working on several other book projects, all shrouded in themost complete secrecy.
Dirda joined The Post in 1978, having grown up in the working-class steel town of Lorain, Ohio and graduated with highest honors in English from Oberlin College. His favorite writers are Stendhal, Chekhov, Jane Austen, Montaigne, Evelyn Waugh, T.S. Eliot, Nabokov, John Dickson Carr, Joseph Mitchell, P.G. Wodehouse and Jack Vance. He thinks the greatest novel of all time is either Murasaki Shikubu's "The Tale of Genji" or Proust's "A la recherche du temps perdu." In a just world he would own Watteau's painting "The Embarkation for Cythera." He is a member of the Baker Street Irregulars, The Ghost Story Society, and The Wodehouse Society. He enjoys teaching and was once a visiting professor in the Honors College at the University of Central Florida, which he misses to this day.
Michael Dirda: Welcome to Dirda on Books! It's a sunny day here in Westminster, and I've just finished grading my last papers and awarding grades. Is awarding the word I want? The semester certainly has gone quickly, but then I had a pretty good class.
All of which said, let's see what questions and provocations await us this week. (That's not a royal us by the way, but a collective us, to include posters and lurkers.)
Hartford, Conn: Any thoughts on Saki and the best place to begin?
Michael Dirda: The short stories. The Unbearable Bassington is the best of the novels, and often very funny--in an Oscar Wilde kind of way--but the stories are the central achievement. It's easy enough to find the complete short stories, both new and used, but there are also selections around. Graham Greene prepared one for Viking some years ago. Nearly anything that Saki wrote is worth reading, but I think the early stories about Clovis may be his best. The Open Windown, Sredni Vashtar, are Gabriel-Ernest are well known, but there are many just as good.
Maitland, Fla: I have on my shelf The Guns of Bull Run by Joseph A. Altsheler. I loved the entire Civil War series as a boy but my 17 year old would never crack it. Any chance at all my other 2 sons, 7 and 8 might, or should I get rid of it. Same with Two Little Savages, from which I picked my oldest boy's name -- Sam; Yen did not fly with the other half.
Michael Dirda: Hard to say. Those older children's books strike many modern kids as too slow, the style odd and formal, and the subject matter not particularly glamorous. But you never know. Certainly if your kids are interested in woodcraft and Nature they might gravitate to the Seton. Maybe a tour of Civil War battle sites might spark an interest in the Altshelers (which I've never read). Good luck.
I do think that Joy Hakim's History of US is very engaging, and its volume on the Civil War one of her best. That might help too.
Obvious Question, Va.: Hi. What is a "police procedural"?
Michael Dirda: Crime novels in which a policeman or the police department is the "detective." So Ed McBain's 87th Precinct stories are police procedurals, while Raymond Chandler's novels aren't. Part of the interest lies in seeing how crime is actually addressed and solved. LeRoy Lad Panek has a very good book called The Modern American Police Novel that covers the whole subject.
Colorado Springs, Colo: Have you read Everyman yet? If so what are your thoughts. I've read some reviews that liken it to The Dying Animal and critize Roth for not creating a unique character.
Michael Dirda: Haven't read it. The fact that the hero of Dying Animal appeared in earlier Roth novels hardly seems a cogent criticism.
Poetry: I seem to be reading more poetry than ever before in my life. Problem is I'm not very good at it. I loved Paglia's Break Blow Burn and wonder if you (or others)can suggest similar books that explicate poems line by line -- partiularly, but not limited to, Emily Dickinson and Shakespeare's Sonnets -- both of which seem to hold treasures beyond my ken.
Michael Dirda: Do you really want to read poetry this way? There was a recent book titled something like How to read Literarure Like a Professor--and I thought, who would want to do that? In truth, you should read the poems for enjoyment and whatever instruction you can glean from them. But if you want annotations to Shakespeare's sonnets the places to start is probably Stephen Booth's edition. For Dickinson you migth want to check out the three volume variorum of the poems--check out in the sense of, from the library.
Fairfax County Public Library: Hi Mr. Dirda,
Our library system is asking residents to read "Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress" by Dai Sijie this summer. If you've read it, what did you think of it?
Michael Dirda: I reviewed it, and probably helped make it a best seller--one of the few times I thought my enthusiasm seemed to be reflected in increased sales. It's a lovely story of two boys who fall in love with a young girl during the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution. It's got a surprise ending.
Washington, DC: In one of your columns you recommended H. Rider Haggard's "She" so I sat down and read it. Thanks for the recommendation--it was terrific. I can see why Freud and Jung thought it was fascinating.
But I wonder why only the Victorians (and George MacDonald Faser, the last Victorian) can write this kind of ripping yarn. What's missing even from good fantasy and science fiction nowadays is the sense of authenticity combined with humor. You either don't believe it or it is too deadly serious, or the humor is forced. What got lost?
Michael Dirda: I"m not sure that the ripping yarn is wholly dead. Patrick O'Brian and Dorothy Dunnett could write such books, as can Bernard Cornwell. Arturo Perez-REverte's Captain Alatriste series tries to be a Spanish Dumas. In general, ours is an ironic age, a postmodern age, that can't take adventure "seriously." Treasure Island is a great book with pirates; The Pirates of the Carribeean has a lot of fun with the pirate tradition. But these are two different approaches. Fraser's The Pyrates is somewhere in between.
I've always wanted to write a book about the adventure story and someday I might.
Alexandria, Va: It may be crazy to ask this of a man, but what would you consider to be on the quintessential reading list of feminist philosophy? I'm a 30-ish woman who has definitely reaped the benefits of the women's movement, but I know almost nothing about it, and I'd like to change that this summer. Any suggestions on what to pick up?
Michael Dirda: Sure, go back to the classics: Mary Wollstonecraft's Vindication of the Rights of Woman; John Stuart Mill's essay, perhaps some of the writings of the suffragettes and people like Susan B. Anthony. But for modern feminism the main texts are books like Simone de Beauvoir's The Second Sex, Germaine Greer's The Female Eunuch, Mary Ellmann's Thinking ABout Women, Susan Brownmiller's Against Our Will, and, of course, Betty Friedan's The Feminist Mystique. After that you start to get clarifications and rebuttals and revisionist theory from all sorts of people, including Gloria Steinem, Naomi Wolff and others.
Reading poetry line by line: For your poetry reader, I'd suggest Helen Vendler's The Art of Shakespeare's Sonnets, which explicates all of his sonnets -- Vendler's writing on poetry is clear and intellectually generous, free of academic jargon.
Michael Dirda: Yes, I was going to mention that and it slipped my mind. Vendler, however much I admire her critical insight, I've never found particularly engaging as a writer qua writer.
college student: i'm taking a class on the history of Virginia next fall. any
recommendations on a historically accurate yet engrossing
Michael Dirda: A history of Virginia? Do you want nonfiction or fiction? If you want the latter, why not try Ellen Glasgow's novels? A good picture of Virginia in the early 20th century and the changeover to a mdoern world. But there's lots written about the state.
Endicott, NY: Mr. Dirda - Loved your recommendations last week on horror stories. Thank you. I am a big fan of Fred Exley's, "A Fan's Notes." How do you feel about it and do you have any recommendations for other classic "fictional memoirs."
Michael Dirda: Well, I love A Fan's Notes, and like big chunks of the other two books. The only other major "fictional memoirs" that come to mind are Frank Conroy's Stop-Time and Rilke's "The Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge." That is, books that are largely true but appear as "fiction." Of course, some people would argue that all memoirs are fiction.
Youngstown, Ohio: Mr. Dirda --
I just finished "The Human Stain" on the heels of reading "Underworld." I'd be interested in your view of how Roth and Delilo compare. Do you have a preference? Is one objectively superior to the other?
Both are fabulous writers, but Delilo seems a little more technically impressive to me, with a facility for unbelievably descriptive riffs that I really enjoy.
Michael Dirda: Why choose at all? It's not really a race. You're spot-on about DeLillo's riffs, and the oepning chapter of Underworld--about the Pennant Game--is just a masterpiece. I think that DeLillo has tried to engage more with contemporary American society and its ills than has Roth, but that Roth has thought about and imagined human beings and Amerian history more powerfully. But they are certainly among the half dozen best living American writers.
history of virginia: A well-researched, as well as highly entertaining, piece of fiction about Virginia is "Argall" by that guy whose name I can never remember but who is, in my opinion, partly insane.
Michael Dirda: A wonderful recommendation. And I don't know the book at all.
Stirling, Scotland: Some trivia to add another little layer to reading Saki: He's know for his famous last words: "Put that bloody cigarette out."
(Just before being shot by a sniper, 14 November 1916)
Michael Dirda: Yes. There's a good biography by a guy whose name escapes me but who wrote a recent book about early American history.
la belle province: For the poetry poster: You might try a couple of books by the genius and personal heart-throb Helen Vendler -- The Art of Shakespeare's Sonnets, and her more recent Coming of Age as a Poet, which analyzes one "perfect" poem each from Milton, Keats, Eliot, and Plath. Highly recommended.
Germantown, Md: The ripping yarn is NOT dead! Although I know you thought "The Baroque Cycle" was too big, you have to admit that a book with pirates, harems, Louis XIV, and an around-the-world expedition is quite the "ripping yarn"! Stephenson can write 'em with the best.
Michael Dirda: You're right, of course. There are in fact many books of steam punk fantasy or alternate world fiction that would fit the early poster's bill. Think of work by Tim Powers, James Blaylock, Michael Moorcock et al.
Rockville, Md: While not directed to poetry in general, I went for years with "Mark Van Doren on great poems of Western literature" at my bed table and always enjoyed a few words every night.
Michael Dirda: Is this the anthology of world poetry he compiled? Van Doren also wrote a very engaging book called Shakespeare and another on epic poetry called The Noble Voice.
Ashcroft, B.C. (BR): Re: the question of the lost art of adventure writing: I agree that we're a postmodern, ironic age which finds it difficult to accept something at face value, and it's our loss. The Victorians had no trouble writing, and reading, what I think of as 'serious adventures': think SHE, or THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES, or THE PRISONER OF ZENDA, stories that simply aimed to be entertaining and interesting, with good, well-drawn characters and a plot that didin't let up until the final page. Alas, that doesn't seem good enough anymore: if there's no underlying message, or nothing being sent up or poked fun at along the way, no conventions being overturned and expectations turned on their heads, then writers aren't interested. Perhaps they think that without these things their books will be classed merely as 'fluff', to be seen decorating revolving metal racks at drugstores. Quite when and why writing first-rate adventure stories dropped out of favour is unclear, but it's our generation's loss. At least the old classics are still on the shelves, and George MacDonald Fraser might have another Flashman novel in him if he gets writing.
Michael Dirda: Yes, long may Fraser flourish! I've only read a little Bernard Cornwell, who is mightily prolific, but he does seem to write a very good adventure story, and he's got series in various time periods.
Arlington, Va: For Maitland, Fla:
One strategy I had for getting my son to read "old" books is to start reading them out loud - not just at bedtime, but earlier; then, stop at a dramatic point and announce you've finished reading. 9 times out of 10 my son would ask if he could keep reading, and would finish off the book himself. This worked for both "Treasure Island", "the Jungle Book," and "Stalky and Co." Plus, it was a chance for me to revisit old friends!
Memphis, Tenn: Mr. Dirda, have you read or heard about Susanna Clarke's novel Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell? Although I mostly like this book, many chapters begin very slowly and take a great deal of time to build to what is usually a good story. I still have about four hundred pages to go and I'm wondering whether it's worth it or not.
Michael Dirda: I reviewed it, and said, in a more nuanced way, that it was too long, too slow, too earnest, and lacked sex. But she's got a great ear and can pastiche different styles well and the footnotes are ingenious fun. I wanted to like the book more than I did--same is true of Elizabeth Kostova's The Historian, about which I had similar reservations--but other people did love it and gave it several major awards.
New York, NY: Argall was written by William Vollman
Michael Dirda: Oh yes. Vollmann. A very good writer. But a monomaniac like Joyce who thinks that people should spend all their reading time on Vollmann books.
Nashville, Tenn: Argall is by William Vollmann, part of the "seven dreams" sequence. Also, I agree the opening section of Underworld is just stunning. On the subject of the fate of adventure fiction in our post-modern world, don't you think Joseph Conrad showed that adventure fiction (or fiction with adventureous plots) can also be subtle and ironic?
Michael Dirda: Yes. Fraser's books are tongue in cheek too, especially The Pyrates. But they are still thrilling, rather than just "witty." Perhaps the problem is that people no longer believe in any particular verities worth dying for. Or that our world has grown suspicious of "adventure", that it seems too close to either play or terrorism.
teaching: what books will be read in your Vermont teaching stint?
Michael Dirda: In class: Rameau's Nephew, Notes from Underground, The Time Machine, Five Children and It, Jakob von Gunten, Concerning the Eccentricities of Cardinal Pirelli, Cane, and How it Is.
New York, NY: Perhaps the bio is "Saki: A Life of Hector Hugh Munro" by A.J. Langguth ??
Michael Dirda: It is indeed.
Springfield, Va: I'm 19 and an aspiring journalist. what books would you say every journalist should have on their bookcase?
Michael Dirda: A phone book, a dictionary, a thesaurus, a manual of style.
Richmond, Va: Michael: When I was an Officer in the Marine Corps and a Marine was brought up for non-judicial punishment (i.e. offenses less serious than a court martial type offense) the official record always showed that whatever puishment was specified had been "awarded". If the Marine Corps can award punishment, you certainly should be able to award grades!
Michael Dirda: Thanks. Hmm. I have a couple of sons who could fill a room with their awards.
SciFiGirl: Michael - I hope I can get some advice from you. A few weeks ago I recommended Sharon Kay Penman to one of the other chatters. I am almost finished reading everything she has written (I'm halfway through the book about Henry and Eleanor "Time and Chance") and I find myself wanting to continue reading about this period of history. Do you, or anyone else, have any other suggestions for novels from this period. I have In a Dark Wood Wandering by Hella Haasse next on my list, and I've read lots of mysteries set in the medieval period (like Ellis Peters). I've tried Philippa Gregory and found myself not terribly impressed (and too late, historically). Is this an itch that can be scratched, or am I done?
for this advice I will throw out a recommendation for Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go, which my book club read, and is an enganging and deceptively simply written book which I completely fell in love with.
Michael Dirda: I don't know the exact period of the Penman books, but there are lots of mysteries and historical novels with medieval backgrounds. Kristin Lavransdatter, for instance, or The Name of the Rose. But maybe you might like some real medieval works--have you ever read Njal Saga or Gottfried's Tristan, or The Nibelungenlied, or Bede's History of the Ecclesiastical Church of England. These are all quite excitign. And then there's Malory and Chretien. At the back of Norman Cantor's cantankerous and wondeful Inventing the Middle Ages, he offers a list of 100 great books about the Middle Ages.
Winston-Salem, NC: Have you read any of John Dunning's bilblio-mysteries? He seems to get the bookseller, rare bookworld stuff right better than others. I've just started listening to his latest which features some books missing from an ASW Rosenbach built private library.
(By the way, is it true that most of Emily Dickinson's poetry can be sung to The Yellow Rose of Texas?)
Michael Dirda: Anything can be sung to the Yellow Rose of Texas.
I read the first Dunning mystery--a hypermodern first that's worth quite a bit--and found it enjoyable but with two problems: 1) There's a sudden shift of tone when people are violently, gruesomely killed two thirds of the way through, and 2) I figured out the plot twist as soon as I knew that two collectors lived next door to each other and one bought real firsts and the other built his library from Book of the Month Club books.
"How to read literature..": I notice that you have taken a (playful?) swipe at this book a few times lately. I feel compelled to defend it a bit. If we really applied the rule that one should read only for enjoyment and for what "you can glean from it"-that is, what the reader himself can dope out about a book-then your own books would be useless commentary. The :how to read like a professor: is nothing more than an introductory literature study guide that focuses on the basics--theme, setting, plot, symbols, style, etc.,etc...I fail to see how this menaces either the joy or "purpose" of reading, if one can apply such a heavy burden to reading....
Michael Dirda: You're wrong there. I'm fairly sure I've never mentioned this book before today.
My objection is mainly to the title. It makes reading sound like work. Which of course it is, but not schoolwork, joyful work.
My own books are pearls beyond price. In truth, I think of them as introductions or invitations, more than as criticism. It's their strength, for good or ill. I do have agendas in An Open Book and the new one, Book by Book, them, but they aren't necessarily all that obvious.
Ripping Yarnville : It comes up all the time, but Cloud Atlas is a terrific example of the modern ripping yarn. It starts with a Robinson Crusoe type story and proceeds with a set of related, interlinked tales that sail into the future. The result doesn't totally add up to the sum of its parts, but it's a thrilling book.
And personally, I think the ripping yarn is on the rise, as an antidote to the kind of anti-fun, realism of the last few decades as well as the grim state of the world today.
Michael Dirda: Thanks. I know that McSweeney's and people like Michael Chabon have been pushing the joys of "traditional" storytelling.
Mary Doria Russell: After The Sparrow (and sequel), has she done anything noteworthy? She was a very fresh voice back in the late 90s but haven't heard anything about her in years.
Michael Dirda: Don't know. Unless, she decided to drop the middle name and marry Sherlock Holmes. Readers of Laurie King will get the joke.
St. Louis, Mo: I was at the big local charity used book sale here last week and saw probably 15-20 paperback copies of "Gulag Archipelago" for sale, far more than the handful of copies I saw for any other title. Any thoughts as to what would make that book so susceptible to frequent book fair appearances?
Michael Dirda: It's a big fat book about a terrible and depressing subject. People bought it because it was important but realized they didn't actually want to read it.
Lenexa, Kan.: Mr. Dirda: I have you in good company--returned from Borders recently with a copy of Philip Roth's "Everyman" and Michael Dirda's "Book by Book." Can't wait to get to both--although still have two Austens to finish first. QUESTION: Looking at your growing oeuvre, I was wondering if you have plans for future books titled "Excursions" and "First Encounters"? Thanks again.
Michael Dirda: No. I plan one more book about books and then I think I'll take a rest from such writing. Some material from First Encoutners will probably be used in the upcoming work, which I will start getting back to next week, now that school is over.
Baltimore, Md: Question re the length of biographies: I wrote a couple weeks back saying that I was working my way through the authorized bio of Edmund Wilson that came out last year. 500 pages later, I am done. Then I just happened to pick up the bio of James Dickey, The World As A Lie, which came out several years ago. And it is something like 750 pages long!
What has caused biographies to become elephantine? Dickey had an eventful and colorful life, but I don't think it was worth 750 closely packed pages that seem to chronicle everything the man did from childhood on. Do publishers demand this kind of comprehensive treatment now? Or are they acquiescent, or what? I know I would love to return to the days of crisp 350 page biographies.
Michael Dirda: A couple of reasons, I think: Many authors are academics who figure that no one is ever going to write about their subject again and so they feel obliged to put in everything. PUblishers can sell "definitive" biographies better than they can "portraits." The bigger books also seem more "lifelife," while the shorter ones are more obviously shaped by the writer in a minor work of art.
I enjoyed your comment on the proper pronounciation of E.F. Benson's Lucia.
A follow-on question if you please.
Have you ever read any of the follow-up books in the series by Tom Holt? I know of (but have not read) "Lucia in Wartime" and "Lucia Triumphant"; are there others?
Actually, have you ever read anything by Tom Holt? His titles sound fun: "Snow White and the Seven Samurai" and "Faust Among Equals"
Perhaps there's an idea for a column: series which were carried on by another author after the first author's death.
Michael Dirda: Holt only wrote those two, and he wrote both when he was a very young man in his early 20s. He himself has gone on to a successful career as a comic fantasist, somewhat like Terry Pratchett. I find his earliest books his best: Expecting Someone Taller, about an ordinary bloke who inherits the Ring of the Nibelung, Flying Dutch, about the Flying Dutchman, and several others. I reviewed a recent one, and he hasn't lost his touch, though the books feel a little over stream-lined. He's the Erle Stanley Garnder of comic fantasy now--reliably entertaining without being ground breaking.
Rockville, Md: Our book group is reading Defoe's A Journal of the Plague Year, and it's gotten me interested in reading more about this time in London's history. Are there any books you can recommend? The book group members are mostly of a scientific bent, so if you know of any books about the plague as a disease, I'd love to hear of them as well, to pass along your picks.
Thanks, Third Tuesdays Book Club member
Michael Dirda: William Mcneill has a couple of books about disease and history. For the plague there's the old classic "Rats, Lice and History." And for an eye witness acount, try Pepys Diary for those years, or read the chapter about the plague in Claire Tomalin's recent award winning biography of Pepys.
London, U.K. via Washington, D.C.: I just found out that I'm about to make a long-awaited, long-anticipated return to London!!!!!!! (In just three short weeks!) Can you recommend any books to devour until then??? I've tried and started _Mrs. Dalloway_ several times, but have yet to finish. For the record, I'm more of a _Bridget Jones' Diary_ than a Sherlock Holmes girl, and my all-time favorite book is _Jane Eyre_. Just something decisively English to tide me over until I can leave.
Michael Dirda: Decisively English. Hmmm. How about Barbara Pym? Try A Glass of Blessings. Or for more modern take, Joanna Trollope.
Chevy Chase, Md : I was wondering if you could recommend some good books I could read with my 9-year-old son over the summer. A few of the books we've enjoyed recently: The Count of Monte Cristo, Treasure Island, Hoot, Jackie Robinson and the Year of the Boar. I was thinking some Dickens, maybe Kidnapped (which I've never read) but would love to hear any of your suggestions. Thanks!
Michael Dirda: Hmmm. Tolien's The Hobbit. White's The Sword in the Stone. J. Mead Falkner's Moon-Fleet. Robert Heinlein's juveniles like Citizen of the Galaxy. Joan Aiken's Dido Twite series.
Parting on the Left : Publisher's Weekly, on the message in the sizzling new Book by Book, M. Dirda, learned one: "... if reading is to be life enhancing, we need to focus our attention on books that are rewarding." So,how and why did you choose to review Stick Out Your Tongue? Not a challenging question, just curious. Thanks.
Michael Dirda: First off, I don't know that PW is right about the character of Book by Book, but then it's just for such reasons that I don't read notices of my work (at least not until long after all passion has been spent). As for Stick Out Your Tongue--it's an interesting book about an interesting part of the world. Plus I was asked to take it on by my editor. I don't choose all the books I review. Many of them, yes, but not all. And sometimes those I didn't expect to review turn out to be the best of all. But not always.
And with that, it's time to bring this session of Dirda on Books to a close. Sorry if I didn't get to your question. Till next Wednesday at 2, keep reading!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Michael Dirda takes your questions and comments concerning literature, books and the joys of reading.
| 275.818182 | 0.954545 | 20.045455 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801437.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801437.html
|
Redskins' Taylor Has New Trial Date of July 10
|
2006051019
|
The oft-delayed trial of Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor was postponed again yesterday in a Miami court, with the new trial date of July 10 likely to be about three weeks before the opening of training camp.
A continuance, the seventh delay in the case, was granted at the request of the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office, which introduced a new lead attorney, Abe Laeser , after prosecutor Mike Grieco resigned nearly a month ago.
Taylor's attorney, Richard Sharpstein , said the date represented the earliest time both sides had clear calendars and that he expected Taylor to meet all of his obligations with the Redskins. Sharpstein said Taylor was currently in Washington and would remain there working out.
Grieco resigned from the case April 12 after the defense alleged he was using the case to promote his side career as a Miami Beach disc jockey. Sharpstein said his motion to dismiss the case for prosecutorial misconduct remains pending.
Taylor, the fifth overall pick in the 2004 draft out of the University of Miami, faces three counts of felony assault with a deadly weapon and one misdemeanor battery charge stemming from an altercation in Miami last summer over the all-terrain vehicles he alleged were stolen from him. Each felony charge carries a three-year mandatory minimum sentence.
Training camp is expected to begin in late July or early August.
|
The trial date for Redskins safety Sean Taylor was postponed for the seventh time Monday, until July 10, three weeks before the start of training camp.
| 8.931034 | 0.896552 | 2.965517 |
low
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401294.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401294.html
|
Federal Diary Live
|
2006051019
|
The Post's Stephen Barr is the author of The Federal Diary , which runs Monday through Friday in the Business news section. Steve has been a reporter and editor at The Post since 1979, including stints as Federal Page editor, congressional editor and a National staff writer covering federal management and workplace issues. He began writing the column in May 2000, and takes the column live to answer your questions Wednesdays at noon ET .
Stephen Barr: Thanks to all of you joining in this discussion today. Spring is here, Congress is taking up appropriations bills, and will soon make decisions on the 2007 pay raise. The Office of Personnel Management has selected vendors to offer enhanced dental and vision benefits to federal employees by year's end, an event that I expect many of you will be eager to see take place. On a more troubling note, it seems clear that morale problems continue at the Department of Homeland Security, especially FEMA, and at the CIA. It's interesting to note, though, that intelligence community employees, as a hole, seem satisfied with their jobs and the work they are doing. We need dedicated folks to keep this government going! With that, on to the questions.
The military has bonuses for finding recruits and for re-enlisting. Should the civil service (especially with the potential brain drain) follow suit? Or would this be a "good idea with no $$$ attached" like student loan repayments etc? Which, alas seems to be the norm these days!
Stephen Barr: Interesting question, and one that OMB and OPM should study. Just today, the Pentagon announced it is raising the maximum pay for foreign language proficiency from $300 a month to $1,000 a month. It's clear that Defense believes that supplemental pay and bonuses help with recruitment and retention.
I think you hit the key with your reference to $$$ attached. Congress almost always supports the military bonus and pay programs with appropriations, so that Defense has the money in hand to make the programs work. I'm not sure that is the case at non-defense agencies, which typically are authorized to offer a flexibility--like student loan reimbursements--but not always the dollars to support the program.
Extra pay and bonuses often complicate pay administration--things can get pretty complicated when you offer so many variations in pay. But in the computer age, it ought to be easy to keep track and avoid mismanagement, right?
In your May 2nd column, "OPM Director Springer made a pitch to would-be retirees to stay on the job as long as possible. She urged them to think about remaining in the federal service to help their agencies cope with the generational transition that is coming."
I don't see the details of this pitch anywhere on the OPM Web site. If she wants retirement eligible employees to stay on the job, REAL tangible incentives have to be offered. How about: offering more annual leave, letting one cash in unused sick leave at retirement, a pension benefit bonus for staying an additional 3-4 years??
Otherwise, her pitch is all talk and trying to get by on the cheap!! An amount invested on incentives would pale in comparison to what has been expended in the liberation of Iraq. Your thoughts??
Stephen Barr: Linda Springer is a decent person who is trying to enlarge a policy debate and look to the future. Hopefully, she can move Congress along to accept the administration's first step, which is a rule revision that allows people to work part-time at the end of their careers without taking a hit on their pensions.
Your ideas point up that more creative solutions need to be placed on the table. Hopefully, OPM can create consensus for change in this area.
Bowie, Md.: OPM Director Linda Springer has recently been speaking about the need to increase retention (delay full retirement) of senior employees as one way of dealing with the possibly of significantly larger numbers of employees retiring over the next decade. She noted that the President's 2007 budget proposes fixing current rules that now adversely lower pensions for employees that move to part-time work, a possible phased-retirement approach. As a federal manager in his 50s now thinking about these issues, I believe such a change is helpful but likely insufficient to stem the tide. I am wondering whether OPM or lawmakers have considered increasing annual leave and sick leave for long-time employees. This would certainly make it easier for me to stay on board. For example, federal employees with 15 years or more of service now receive 8 hrs. of annual leave each pay period. I would propose that federal employees with 30 or more years or service receive 12 hrs. and that employees with 35 or more years receive 16 hrs. Furthermore, I propose that employees with over 30 years of service receive 6 hrs of sick leave per pay period (instead of current 4 hrs). and that employees with over 35 years receive 8 hrs. of sick leave per pay period. This would assist senior employees increasingly dealing their own health issues as well many have elder care responsibilities. Increasing annual and sick leave for long-time federal employees is a very concrete, deserved enhancement that I believe would entice many employees to remain in public service longer.
Stephen Barr: Hi, Bowie. It does seem to me that Linda Springer is urging would-be retirees to hang in a little longer, probably because of concerns about potential brain-drains in agencies. Policy-makers are becoming sensitive to what can happen when you let a FEMA or a CIA lose too many career people in too short of a time period.
Now, more generous leave arrangements would make a difference to some people, I think. But this seems like a difficult sell because of budget considerations and obligations.
However, it does seem feasible that OPM could devise a phased retirement schedule--where employees work X days and draw some pay and a partial annuity, keep a little TSP going and pick up a little leave, etc.
I think phased retirement would be most attractive for senior executives. We need them to mentor careerists and political appointees. Any thoughts out there on these issues, folks?
Arlington, Va.: Given the expected shortage of federal employees, can the agency hold up retirement dates (such as the military does with soldiers)?
Stephen Barr: Hmmmm...I've never heard of a non-defense agency issuing so-called stop-loss orders. I would guess that agencies try to coax valued hands into staying a bit longer, under the guise of transition planning.
We're open to help on this query....
Civil service hiring worries, but no hurry: If the civil service could streamline their hiring practices I would imagine they could draw more applicants. My wife and I came to D.C. hoping to serve, but were put off by months long application processes and bureaucratic bungling. Instead we went with the private sector (resume, interview, done in a couple weeks).
Stephen Barr: Well, yes. This is a different, though related, bucket of worms. My recent columns on the coming retirement wave flooded me with e-mails from a variety of folks (including an ex-Marine officer with a Ph.D.) who said they had dropped out of the federal job hunt because of their frustrations with agency hiring practices.
OPM officials say they have been working on improvements to hiring practices for the last five years, but my readers clearly don't see it happening.
Now that you are relocated to D.C., perhaps you can again look at public service at another juncture in your working life? Government needs the best these days.
Re: good idea with no $$$ attached: There are agencies out there that do give out loan repayments. They are generally the ones that have done massive buy-outs to get rid of the GS-15 dead weight and have a lot more people at entry level. I know that in my division, about 30 people are eligible and we all have gotten loan repayment.
Stephen Barr: Thanks. Good to hear you're in the money!
Fairfax, Va.: On the other end of the spectrum, OPM should also develop plans to recruit more younger workers with more annual leave, a greater TSP match, and greater education/loan repayment options.
Stephen Barr: Good ideas, and they all cost money when applied to 1.8 million employees, potentially.
But I do think there is room for improvement in the area of leave and vacation. Younger workers, especially those starting families, and those with kids in the household, need more flexible leave arrangements, based on comments in previous Diary Live discussions.
Centreville, Va.: Bowie's suggestion of additional annual leave for long time employees would amount to 8 to 10 weeks per year. So, you basically want full-time pay for part-time work. And that doesn't include the additional sick leave--5 weeks per year, on top of the hundreds or even thousands of hours that long-term employees would have accrued. Sorry, but that one would be a budget buster.
One of the key issues with retiree retention is how to structure any incentives so that you keep the productive ones whose portion of the institutional memory you'd like to preserve, but don't keep the ones who have basically "retired in place" and haven't done a lick of meaningful work in many years.
Stephen Barr: Thanks much. A concise statement of the problem, I think.
a more simple approach is to select out the best to retain and shift them to a contract. No doubt that is done in some places now. Such an arrangement might diminish pay and benefits, but would give the retiree a chance to negotiate a favorable work schedule and give the agency a way to tap into institutional knowledge on short notice. How about that?
Bethesda, Md.: Number-cruncher that I am, I LOVE the idea of a greater match. Increasing it from 5% to 10% (or even 8%) would make me VERY excited.
Do they have the raw data on how many people actually contribute MORE than the current match?
Stephen Barr: TSP has not produced any demographic data recently, so there's no good answer on contribution levels/amounts.
Generally, as I recall, past data showed that the higher income employees maxed out, contributing right up to the IRS limit.
Bethesda, Md.: Thanks for taking my question before.
I used to max out, but now that the limit has been raised I can't -quite- manage to put aside 15,000. But it IS my goal and dream to do so within 2 years.
But I gotta tell you, when I started with the feds, that match REALLY motivated me to put aside more than I could afford at the time. And I am SO glad that I did too.
Tell the TSP to start analyzing the participants too. I'm WILD with curiosity.
Stephen Barr: Thanks, Bethesda. We probably need to urge GAO to step in on this issue. As I understand it, TSP only has data on contributions and the participant accounts; TSP does not see payroll information, such as the size of your salary. So I suspect what we need is an analyst to take data dumps from TSP and OPM and then slice it up and see what it means.
Although many FERS employees have got the message and contribute to TSP, I am concerned that lower-graded employees may not be saving enough. I struggle myself at times--kids, car payments, house payments, repair bills, etc. But saving it the key!
Anonymous: I used to work at a Federal agency that had a number of "re-employed annuitants" on the payroll. Basically, some people were so specialized that the agency could not risk losing them, but the employees wanted partial retirement because of health or personal reasons. This is a good solution and could be much better for government agencies than granting additional annual and sick leave. After all, although some older employees need additional leave, others have so much leave they end up donating or losing leave at the end of the year.
Stephen Barr: Thanks for offering this example. A good illustration!
St. Petersburg, Fla.: Hi. I'm a contented retiree, having put in 30 years with the Foreign Service. Has there been any movement on the Hill on letting retirees pay their health plan costs pre-tax, like our still toiling brothers and sisters? Thanks.
Stephen Barr: Now, the so-called "premium conversion" bills are languishing at the Ways and Means Committee in the House. My guess is that the committee fears that offering this tax break to government retires would inspire private-sector retirees to demand the same. (It's all about the money. Who said that?)
Washington, D.C.: Why would giving leave cost money? It's just days off (unless you separate from the government., in which case you can collect the $$$ equivalent of the leave you have left).
Stephen Barr: I'm assuming it is paid leave--so you are drawing down dollars for no work on those days. On the other hand, I guess it could be set up as time off, with no compensation involved. Any thoughts on this query out there?
Kearney, Mo.: Concerned about future Medicare for my children when they get to the age they will need it. The eldest child is now 52 and the youngest will turn 46 this Summer. I am now 70 and just recently joined the Medicare Prescription Plan, but only because the government said they would pay my monthly premiums which is a lot higher than I could afford, since my Medicare supplemental insurance company charged me only $36 yearly. Also the government has agreed that my prescriptions would only cost mw $2 for generic and $5 for name brand prescriptions. I complained to my children that I was concerned that if the government was going to do this, that would mean that Medicare would not last until they reached an age to use and need it. They said to go ahead because I really needed it so that I would spend the money I spent on prescriptions on food that I slighted when I had to pay for prescriptions. A logical answer but that does not make me feel any better and I still worry about their future. Any comment?
Stephen Barr: I applaud you for looking to the future, and not just to yourself.
There are huge issues confronting Medicare, involving benefits and how it is paid for in future years. The coming generations may face a larger burden that we do today.
Still, we can hope that policy knots are untied and that the U.S. economy continues to grow. Too many people are without health care, given the wealth of the nation, and Medicare is a superb safety net for older Americans.
RE: Leave costs money: because for every hour you are out when you would otherwise be working, someone else has to be paid to do your job.
Stephen Barr: Thanks for saying it so clearly.
Once again, we've run out of time. Thanks for your comments and ideas about dealing with the impending waves of retirements in government. (To the reader from Dallas, I got your comments about the HUD secretary and will relay them to a Post editor.)
Please join me here at noon next Wednesday!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post columnist Stephen Barr answers questions about navigating the federal workplace. Federal Diary runs weekdays in the Business news section of The Post.
| 118.576923 | 0.846154 | 1.923077 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/02/DI2006050200883.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/02/DI2006050200883.html
|
Life at Work Live
|
2006051019
|
Washington Post columnist Amy Joyce writes Life at Work on Sundays in the Business section and appears online every Tuesday to offer advice about managing interpersonal issues on the job.
An archive of Amy's Life at Work columns is available online.
Find more career-related news and advice in our Jobs section.
Amy Joyce: Good morning, folks. Thanks for joining me on my not-usual day and time.
Here's my question for Sunday's Life at Work column: What is on the Working Mom's Wish List for Mother's Day this year? More flextime? Better daycare? Universal health care? Let's hear it at lifeatwork@washpost.com.
Alrighty, then. It's that time. As always, join in with your feisty selves and let us all know your thoughts on the questions and comments here.
My boss is a SCREAMER. He is mean, demanding, demeaning, and a total hot-head. He seems to have his volume knob stuck at 11 and yells at us to do every little thing. He calls us names like "maggot" and "puke" and it's just unacceptable. How can I gracefully get out of here?
Amy Joyce: Why be graceful? In this sort of situation: Freshen your resume up TODAY. Start looking for work. Find a job. Leave. ASAP.
Do you have an HR department? Can you tell someone higher up that this attitude of his is creating a hostile work environment and they might have lots of problems on their hands if he's not stopped?
Do everything you can to find a better situation. Search online, talk to friends/family and colleagues about possible jobs, get out and network at official networking events or casually among your acquaintances.
Confused, D.C.: Hi, Amy. Love the chat.
I recently interviewed three times -- once over the phone with an HR person, once in person with the would-be boss, and once in person with an HR person AND the VP). I got a phone message from this organization yesterday saying that they "have been under a number of changes" and would like for me to come in "to discuss some of the changes that have occurred." It also said that they are "still very much interested in (my) candidacy."
What could this mean? I am awaiting a call back to schedule an appointment. Thank you!
Amy Joyce: It could mean anything. Don't read into it too much. Most likely, they thought of a different job for you. Play along and see what you think of the discussion. Good luck!
Dads work too: Hi, Amy. Not to be snarky, but will you be asking what's on the wish lists of working dads come Father's Day?
Thanks and love the chats.
Amy Joyce: Of course. I will and I have.
D.C.: Hi, Amy. I recently found out I'm pregnant and am also interviewing for jobs. I know I don't need to bring up my pregnancy until I get a job offer, but how do I bring it up once I receive an offer? After I get the offer, what do I say? ... "By the way, I'm pregnant."
Amy Joyce: I wrote a column about this a year ago. In short: It depends on your specific situation.
Although it's illegal to discriminate against a woman based on pregnancy, there are still many cases of women fired or not hired for positions because of pending motherhood.
If they don't hire you because you're pregnant, I daresay you wouldn't want to work there anyway.
One woman I interviewed was trying to get a job at a political consulting company, and her baby was due in May 2004, just as the election was heating up. I thought she handled the situation perfectly: She was in her third or fourth round of interviews when she went in with a little speech she prepared. She told them she was pregnant, when she was due, and what she was hoping to have as far as maternity leave. But she told them she would be around for most of the crunch time and really hoped to get the job. They hired her a week later and they offered her her leave terms of 7 weeks.
You don't have to tell anyone that early, but sometimes it seems like a smart way to do it.
washingtonpost.com: Dare to Decide , (Post, May 7)
Amy Joyce: This was Sunday's column about big decisions.
North Beach, Md.: This may sound really silly, but years ago someone gave me this decision-making tip and it has served me well over time. If it's a really close decision, flip a coin. If you're disappointed with how the flip turns out, you want the other alternative. Try it, it works!
Amy Joyce: And more decision making tips. I like this tactic. It can actually say a lot. (And hey, this is how I decide what take out to order sometimes.)
"Maggot:" Unless you're in Marine Corps Boot Camp, call HR now! This is obvious verbal abuse and the company should stop it now before they get sued.
Amy Joyce: There ya go. Yep, calling an employee Maggot is pretty, um, serious stuff.
Anonymous: My husband made one of those scary decisions you wrote about in your last column. He left a secure, but low paying, low excitement, no recognition jobs for a less secure job where he could make his mark. He's doing great at the new job, but it's really draining, and he wasn't prepared for the drain it would have on the family. His evenings are no longer his own and he has to deal with politics much more than ever. But, would he go back? Never. That is the key.
Security is important, but a person can only live for so long driving to work and sitting all day doing repetitive work that is not appreciated. However, I think that having such a job (the one where he was under appreciated) is better than the best education at times. He was an excellent student of organizational psychology and learned by observing his superiors and fellow employees. Management is about so much more than what is taught in business school. Sometimes I think managers need to go undercover as a peon in an organization to relearn the tools necessary to lead!
Amy Joyce: Thanks. I think there's something to that. And now that he's figured out what is more fulfilling, he can stay on that track and perhaps find a situation within that field later on that is less draining and just as fulfilling.
Indianapolis, Ind.: Any calming words of wisdom as I wait to hear any word about a job I just interviewed for? (And did a great job at the interview, I must say) My bloodsucking temp job is killing me, I'm wanting this new thing TOO MUCH. I need perspective.
Amy Joyce: Send us perspective, folks!
From me: Hey, you just had a great interview. You're on your way to a job you want. Spend your anxious time being excited instead about the possibility. And keep looking for other options that you can interview for, just in case. That will keep you focused on a move.
A word of advice for new graduates -- hang in there. I took the first job offered out of college, in a panic about my future. It was horrible -- a bad working environment, a group of people that could have been the inspiration for Dunder Mifflin, etc., and I was miserable. So I started to look for a new job, but it was slow going and I was getting more and more unhappy in my current job -- to the point where it began to change my whole life. At that point I resolved to make a change. I realized that I had let a bad job become, as you pointed out once, a bad relationship. And I realized that I was an active player in that relationship.
So I toughened up. I started doing my best, working as hard as I could. It couldn't change my surroundings, but it changed how I felt about myself. And it was noticed -- in three months, I got two nice bonuses for a job well done. And I continued to look for another job.
A year and a half later after starting at that office, I started a new, wonderful amazing job. And I am actually thankful that I took the first job, because it made me a better and more dedicated worker. And less than a week into my current position, I couldn't be happier, and I'm raking in the compliments for being a great employee with a dedicated work ethic.
I don't think anyone should have to work in the kind of environment I did, but when new graduates are disillusioned about their jobs they should remember that experience is valuable, and that this can be a good step up to what they want. Make the most of it. I may have been able to get this job without my previous employer, but I wouldn't have been the worker I am without them.
Amy Joyce: Couldn't have said it better myself. Congrats!
RE: Va. screamer: Unfortunately once you leave, the poor guy who comes in after you will hit the same toxic environment. These are the types of people who will track you down, put you on telemarketing lists for a laugh, and even intervene when you are being checked out by a prospective employer to secretly express their misgivings about you.
If there is a Web site where people who run into this can list the company and the manager, it sure would help the rest of us.
Amy Joyce: Put you on telemarketing lists? Really? Now that *is* cruel.
Potomac, Md.: I am looking seriously at the possibility of changing careers and pursuing something that I have both the passion and the skill sets for that will allow me to have a rewarding and successful career. I am currently 29 and holding fast and I know that now is the right time to make a move. However, I am stuck on one large concern. I understand that I will need to go back to school for more education and a pay cut is inevitable, at least in the short term. However, my question that is a huge concern for me is this: Does changing careers mean that I will be starting from square one with a low end entry level position where I am basically pushing papers around and more importantly not learning anything about the business? Thanks for your time and consideration into this matter.
P.S., Maybe I'll just hit the lottery.
Amy Joyce: No.... maybe *I'LL* win the lottery. Yeah.
Do your research on this possible career change. Go talk to people in the field and ask what you asked here. Talk to schools where you might apply and ask if they have anyone who can chat with you about the field and job possibilities. Then make your decision. If you truly are excited about this opportunity and want the schooling, an entry level position for a little while shouldn't scare you too much. Everything can be considered entry level to some degree, particularly your first job in a new field. You can just hope that you are excited enough about it and do it well enough to keep learning new things and keep climbing. Think you can stomach that? If not, then perhaps this isn't the right move. But find out: Get out and talk to people who are there already.
Washington, D.C.: "If they don't hire you because you're pregnant, I daresay you wouldn't want to work there anyway." I disagree. It's not so much that a company may not hire because of the pregnancy, but there may be pressing goals that wouldn't be met if the new employee was out for Dr's appointments, maternity leave, related illness, etc. If a candidate told me that they could start next Monday, but needed to take a sabbatical shortly thereafter, I may not hire them either. So it's not the pregnancy itself, but the time away.
Amy Joyce: And would you say the same thing if someone came in to a third interview and said they just found out they had cancer, or were in a car accident and might need some time for rehab?
Capitol Hill, D.C.: In response to Arlington -- the one with the screamer boss -- get out of there as fast as you can. Faster if possible.
This kind of work environment provides nothing but a salary. It raises the question of how much you and any other worker is worth. Staying in that environment and putting up with such abuse tacitly agrees with the screamer's position -- that anyone who would work for him is a maggot and puke.
I used to have a boss who took turns scapegoating staff. She would select one person as the target and do everything to destroy that person. Eventually -- after 20 years -- my turn came. By that point she couldn't easily get rid of my. In addition to earning superlative annual reviews, I had build a solid reputation across the organization. She removed my responsibilities. She de-funded the projects that I managed, so she could better support the projects of her new best friend, who just happened to report to her. Getting out of there to a job that paid more and provided greater benefits took me 18 months--the longest 18 months of my life. The day that I told her that I was leaving she offered me a promotion--the very promotion that at the beginning of the 18 months she promised me that I would NEVER receive.
Guess what? I left for a place that truly appreciated me and for a boss who considered getting me was a stroke of good fortune.
Getting up the courage to look seriously for another job can take time. But do it! NOW!
Amy Joyce: Congrats to you. It does take courage sometimes to just git. Then we look back and wonder what in the world took us so long to get the process rolling...
Fairfax, Va.: Amy, I was wondering how I can get a co-worker to stop reading the news he reads on the Internet to me? He does this on a daily basis. I have tried cutting him off by telling him that I have already read the article. He then continues on by saying did you read this part too? I also have said "oh don't spoil it I want to read that later." He doesn't take the hint.
Amy Joyce: I laughed out loud at your spoil comment. Good try. Unfortunately, it sometimes takes something a bit more direct: "No time to listen right now, Bob."
Hartford, Conn.: Hi, Amy. A couple of years ago, I wrote in asking you if you thought it was worth it to go for my MLS when graduated from college. (You and the posters did think it was worth it.) Well, I finally have graduated from college -- at the ripe old age of 39 -- and I start my MLS program in the fall. Thanks for the encouragement!
Amy Joyce: Well good. I hope our encouragement is worth it. Best of luck and congrats!
Alexandria, Va.: There is absolutely no reasons for managers to yell or scream at their employees. Unless the building is on fire. Yelling is abuse.
The problem is that people who are good at their jobs are promoted, most times without training to management positions. This is considered a promotion and often the only way to get people more money.
Managers handle resources and people are a resource just like a budget, computers, etc. Managing people is not easy. It's a skill just like everything else. To me, yelling is a sign that managers cannot handle their jobs. Therefore they shouldn't be managers.
The last time a manager yelled at me, I simply said that I would not be yelled at, that the issue was not worth the treatment I was getting, and I would be happy to discuss the situation when she calmed down. I then went back to my desk and drafted my resignation. I left, didn't look back. She has since been let go and I have a new job, closer to home, with better pay.
Amy Joyce: I think actually telling someone to stop yelling and you'll talk once they have calmed down is a good tactic. If it doesn't work, definitely time to look outside for a new opportunity.
Deerfield Beach, Fla.: Hi, Amy. I'm at a new job in an open office environment, where several divisions of the company that do not work together sit right next to each other. This new office is speaker phone and cell phone crazy! From speaker phone conference calls to conversations between two people who sit less than six feet away from each other, I hear it all! Not to mention and a multitude of different cell phone ring tones. How does a quiet, loving and considerate worker find her Zen volume level amongst the chaos? Sincerely, Wish I was wearing ear plugs.
Amy Joyce: 1. Why aren't you wearing earplugs?
2. It's a RARE occasion when someone in an open office
environment should be using a speaker phone, folks. Stop it. Now.
And Wish, it's time for you to say something if it's out of control. At least to your neighbors. I know it's hard. But repeat after me: "Hey Bob [Bob is apparently my name of choice today], do mind not using speaker? I can't hear myself think over here. Thanks a ton."
Washington, D.C.: Hi, Amy. I'm throwing this out to you and the readers to see if they have any suggestions. I'm a recent college grad (2004) and I've been working in my current job for over a year now. I like the place and am learning a lot, but I know I want to move on early next year. I'm looking at Peace Corps to volunteer overseas, but I was wondering if you knew of any other organizations that had similar missions. I'd like to see which one best fits my interests (would love to work with women's groups overseas). Thanks!
Amy Joyce: Any thoughts, folks?
Washington, D.C.: Amy -- HELP!
What to do when you can't remember the names of all the people that sat in on an interview, for the purpose of writing thank you notes? You don't want the person to feel slighted, but is it cool to call and ask one of the other people that you do remember? I want to put my best foot forward, and not wind up with it in my mouth.
Amy Joyce: You could call HR or the person you remember and ask for the proper spelling of the other person's name. But that might be a little awkward. The important thing is to write a thank you note to the main person interviewing you. You didn't get any cards? Could you try to recognize the peoples' names on the Web site?
Rockville, Md.: "And would you say the same thing if someone came in to a third interview and said they just found out they had cancer, or were in a car accident and might need some time for rehab?"
Exactly ... how can you predict what will happen to any employee the second they are hired? What a shame it would be to miss out on hiring the right person because of what you perceive to be too much time off! Very short-sighted, I must say.
Amy Joyce: And, I believe, (but jump in here lawyers), illegal....
Washington, D.C.: Any tips on telling your coworkers about a pregnancy? I'm comfortable with approaching my boss, work friends, and those I work with closely on projects that will be affected by my maternity leave. But what about the other 20 or so people in my office. A mass email seems weird, as does just not saying anything and figuring they will notice my growing belly. A staff meeting announcement? For some reason I'm finding this awkward, particularly since the co-workers in question are mainly childless and not especially friendly.
Amy Joyce: Oh, please no mass email. There's no need to announce to a group, beyond those you care about and those whose job it will impact. Word will get around, or it might come up naturally in a conversation one on one with co-workers. ("Well, I'm going to be out from X to X because I'm expecting.")
Baltimore, Md.: "If there is a Web site where people who run into this can list the company and the manager, it sure would help the rest of us."
Boy, is that a great idea. Currently working in management for an entity that has fired all of the department heads since last August despite being one of the most successful companies in the field. Turnover is about 50 percent and the reason comes from a micromanaging, paranoid CEO in this 400 person organization. Had I known what I was getting into ... meanwhile, I'm looking and interviewing like crazy.
Amy Joyce: I kind of feel like there must be a web site like that out there. Anyone?
Washington, D.C. (G-town): Hi, Amy. You and the other readers are probably going to yell at me for this -- but honestly, what is the problem with flip-flops in the office? I'm 25 and work in a small office where clients rarely, if ever, come in. I work better when I'm comfortable. Suits and heels just aren't. I typically wear knee-length denim skirts with a nice top and jacket (today's is white corduroy) and flip-flops. Our office is "business casual," does this not count?
Amy Joyce: Oh, there is such a love/hate relationship with flip flops in the workplace. I think what the people who are anti-flips say is sure, it might be biz casual dress. But it's not time for the beach. It's sort of like wearing PJs to work. Or slippers. And the thwack-thwack drives some people crazy.
You can get a shoe that is just as comfy, I think, and that won't be perceived as a sign of immaturity. Which I truly think flip flops are.
RE: Co-worker who reads: Well ... Amy your advice helped. And now he is bringing up news videos for me to watch. So no more being read to ... LOL.
Amy Joyce: If I didn't know better, I'd say you're kidding me.
But I know better. That's what I love about the workplace: It's always interesting. We're dumping all these different personalities into one place under one roof. Like family, you can't choose 'em. (Bob, I'm too busy to watch video too. Sigh.)
Amy Joyce: Okay, gang. Time to get back to work. I'll be back to my regular time and place next week: Tues. at 11.
Have a great week, and don't forget to e-mail me with your wish list nominations for things to change in this world for working moms at lifeatwork@washpost.com.
Thanks, and talk to you Tuesday.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
The Post's Amy Joyce offers advice on how to survive in the workplace.
| 315.2 | 0.866667 | 1.8 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/09/DI2006050901009.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/09/DI2006050901009.html
|
The Reliable Source
|
2006051019
|
The Reliable Source is back, under the stewardship of Amy Argetsinger and Roxanne Roberts . Appearing in the Style section on Tuesdays through Fridays and Sundays, The Reliable Source brings you gossip from across the region and around the world -- candid looks at the lives and loves and hijinks of all your favorite bold-faced names, be they congressmen or millionaires,ballplayers or newsbabes, nightlife divas or master thespians, DJs or gadflies, has-beens or will-bes.
Argetsinger and Roberts are online each Wednesday at Noon ET to discuss your favorite gossip, what you thought about their recent columns or who you want to see them writing about in future ones.
For Court TV's Guthrie, A Change of Venue (Post, May 10)
Houston, We Have a Winner (Post, May 9)
It'll Take More Than a Kennedy to Put Mayo on the Stars' Rehab Map (Post, May 7)
Argetsinger is a veteran of all leafy-green, protein-rich sections like Metro and National while Roberts brought you the champagne and bon-bons of Style's society beat.
Amy Argetsinger: Good morning all! What would you like to talk about today: Jenna's non-proposal? Dan Snyder's nanny problems? Jim Moran's weight-loss challenge? Britney's pregnancy? Keith Richard's head trauma? Valerie Plame's book deal? Patrick Kennedy's trip to Minnesota? The options are many... and then there's always America's Next Top Idol, or whatever... We await your questions...
Virginia: Some of the females behind the Members of Congress in hearings showed on C-Span are hotties. I will visit Capitol Hill. Do you think those nice ladies are dateable?
Amy Argetsinger: Oh, Virginia. Why don't you first try meeting women through mutual friends, church, volunteer work, kickball, scrapbooking clubs, goth chat rooms, truckstop diners and... I don't know whatever else Carolyn Hax tells you. Ask her on Friday!
Roxanne Roberts: You get points for calling them nice, however.
Winchester, Va.: Ice skater Dorothy Hamill was in town for our fun Apple Blossom Festival this past weekend -- her daughter was the queen. Who was the guy riding in the car during the parade? Husband? She looked gorgeous -- he had a little too much Botox!
Amy Argetsinger: Hey, missed that one. Had no idea Olympic royalty was gracing the Apple Blossom Festival this year. So, if I understand correctly, Winchester always picks a couple of local girls as Apple Blossom princesses, but imports a celebrity daughter to be the queen, right? A friend of mine (daughter of a Winchester doctor) was a princess back in high school, but when it came to the top job she was trumped by Telly Savales' daughter.
Alexandria, Va.: With the confirmation of another pregnancy, is Britney Spears' career officially over?
Roxanne Roberts: Oops, she did it again. Hard to say about the career. If she intends to be a hands-on mom with two kids in diapers, then the career---such as it is---is on hold.
But since she can afford to pay for nannies galore (a drivers---hint, HINT---Miss Brit), then there's nothing stopping her from diving back in the studio or stage except lack of fans.
Britney devotees? Yoo--hoo? Any thoughts?
McLean, Md.: So will Keith Richards end up brain-damaged? Will anyone be able to tell the difference?
Amy Argetsinger: Oh, ha ha, the joke on everyone's mind today obviously...
Leesburg, Va.: So, how does one tell exactly whether or not Keith Richards has brain damage? And, if it is brain damage, how do you know it was from recent trauma and not the years of living dangerously?
Amy Argetsinger: Well, look, clearly Keef's lucky to be alive after that heroin habit and god knows what all else. And certainly that hard-living has given him a certain patina, a certain affect. But brain damage is a whole other thing. Assuming those reports are true, and it's all pretty murky right now. To rehash -- the New Zealand Herald reporting that Keith Richards had a second brain surgery last week, that's he's worse off than earlier reports indicated, that he may have brain damage, and Stones reps are denying it all.
Clarksburg, Va.: Valerie Plame is such a hottie. Besides the book has she been getting any commercial offers to appear on TV, film, commercials, etc.?
Roxanne Roberts: She IS a hottie, isn't she? We're not aware of any offers to toss that blond mane in a commercial, but it's a fun idea. Let's see: Valerie as spokeswoman for.....
Betty Crocker yellow cake mix?
Winchester, Va.: About Apple Blossom -- the celebs this year included perennially-tanned George Hamilton, Tom Wopat (who needs good points because of that DUI), basketball great Jerry West, and Dorothy Hamill and daughter. They apparently live in the Baltimore area?
Amy Argetsinger: Hey, just checked and you're right -- Dorothy Hamill does indeed live in Baltimore. Didn't know that.
Washington, D.C.: Who do you think will get kicked of America's Next Top Model tonight?
Amy Argetsinger: If there's any justice in this world, it will be Jade. Lovely as her bone structure may be, she's no closer to the age range for "top model" status than I am. But they keep keeping her around for the drama, you know?
All I know is that it will be a very difficult work week if both D.C.'s own Sarah gets kicked off of ANTM the same night Richmond's own Elliott gets kicked off of AI.
Silver Spring, Md.: From a PR perspective, what a brilliant move for Patrick Kennedy to go into rehab. Just killed that story. Also turned it from a police-blotter matter to a human-interest story. And all the little old ladies in Providence still love him. So much for the Kennedy curse!
Roxanne Roberts: Not much to celebrate, all things considered. And the story is anything but dead----there are lots of questions about what actually happened that night, and whether he received special treatment by the police. Even if the little old ladies still vote for him, this is hardly a victory.
Baltimore, Md.: Why doesn't Patrick Kennedy look or speak like a Kennedy? No chiseled features, no Quimby-like accent. Drinks like a Kennedy, though.
Roxanne Roberts: Third generation is actually quite varied----very few big teeth Kennedy overbites. Remember, Patrick's mom, Joan, is a very pretty blonde with delicate features.
Nanny?: Which costs more? The nanny for the Brit-spawn, or the nanny for K-Fed? And do you think they might be able to do a reality show w/Fran Drescher?
Amy Argetsinger: Quick, you should go copyright that idea before they steal it from you!
Washington, D.C.: Any scoop on the demise of the Boldface Names column (recently penned by Georgetown alum Campbell Robertson) in a certain unnamed publication a few hours north of our fair city?
Amy Argetsinger: The official word from the NYT, which seems reasonable enough, is that the feature had kinda run its course and Campbell Robertson was moving on to a real news beat anyway, oh and by the way this has nothing-to-do-with-the-NYPost's-Page-Six-scandal. They actually put that part in the memo! If there's anything more to it than that, I don't know. Newspapers change up their formats and features all the time.
Washington, D.C. : Help, I missed something ..."Jenna's non-proposal"?
Amy Argetsinger: We're posting a link to last Thursday's column. It was delightful: Jenna and her longtime boyfriend Henry Hager were dining at Asia Nora in D.C., and the waitstaff brings out a champagne flute with a mysterious little note posted at the bottom, and -- well, go read it.
washingtonpost.com: Snyders, Former Nanny Take Each Other to Court (Post, May 4)
Rockville, Md.: Hot Angela Lansbury sighting. She was in Georgetown Friday night. Wearing sunglasses. Looked good.
Roxanne Roberts: Angela was in town to host the Kennedy Center's 35th anniversary gala Sunday night, where she did a brilliant turn with George Hearn at Sondheim's "Little Priest." She looked good and sounded swell. Not bad for 80 years old. Not bad at all.
Britney future: My guess ... Britney will take a few years off with the kiddies, then buy her own theater in Branson and will be set for life. Fine with me, just so I never heave to hear about her again.
Roxanne Roberts: My guess is that she's already set for life, unless she lets Kevin tear through the fortune---which would make a great TV movie, come to think of it. Ah, fame! Ten years from now, will anyone be talking about her?
Amy Argetsinger: You think Branson? I say Vegas.
This past weekend at Starbucks in Dupont I sat one table away from a guy who looked exactly like an Asian Pauly Shore.
Do you want me to send you all the details?
Amy Argetsinger: Hmmmm... not unless you think this might have really been Pauly Shore, done up in one of those Tom-Cruise-in-M.i.III disguises...
Washington, D.C.: Do we know anything about ANTM's Sarah? Like what she does for a living? I think she works out at the U Street Results.
Amy Argetsinger: Oh, we wrote about Sarah *weeks* ago. She works for Advisory Board Co., a health-care research and consulting firm that hires a lot of bright young college grads. People who've seen her around say that her hair's still short. She can't talk about it until she's off the show, though.
Washington, D.C.: Sara can't get kicked off. She is such a great example of the caliber of people that live in the D.C. area. Jade is unbelievable. It's sad to think there may be more people out there like her. Kudos to Joanie for always sticking up to her! Anyway ... Sara rules and I can't wait to see where her career goes. Too bad it probably won't keep her in D.C!
Amy Argetsinger: Yeah, but by the looks of the previews, Joanie starts bad-mouthing Sara on tonight's episode...
washingtonpost.com: A Champagne Bottle Was Popped, the Question Was Not (Post, May 4)
Rockville, Md.: Hi Ladies! I love the chat and ALWAYS read the columns! I was just wondering if anyone knows who lives in a particular house on Glen Road in Potomac with a guard house. You can't actually see the house from the road, but it's a huge property. There has been a fence around for a few years with gates on the driveways, but the guard house is definitely new (and still empty). Thanks!
Amy Argetsinger: Hmmm, don't know the house you're talking about. (Am now bracing for a message from a reader saying "and you call yourselves reliable????") Anyone else recognize it?
washingtonpost.com: The above link labeled "Snyders" contains the Jenna Bush reference story.
Alabama: Re: Britney Spears. Wasn't there a time when a celebrities who lost their mojo just went away? Is it a requirement now that a decline in success must lead to a person's life becoming a slow motion train wreck? I've never been a fan of Britney Spears, but I would think she (and her children) would benefit from a few years in Relative Obscurity, before the spotlight warps them further.
Amy Argetsinger: I agree with you completely that Britney's smartest career move would be to take a couple years off, ratchet back the overexposure, try to make the details of her personal life a little more elusive for the general public. Probably wouldn't be a bad move for her personal life either.
But no, we've always had celebrities who refuse to go away. If we didn't, then The Love Boat and a plethora of '70s game shows would have had to scramble for bit-part talent. And that would have been a shame. Rock on, Zsa Zsa Gabor!
Washington, D.C.: Joanie got all mad that Sara was copying her but how many different poses can you actually do on an elephant? If I was Sara, I would want to be hoisted up onto an elephant on his foot. What an amazing experience! I think she said something like that in the episode. Sara rules and it would be great to see a bright blond win ANTM finally!
Amy Argetsinger: Poor Sara. She was just watching and learning, and the whole thing devolves into a silly catfight. Rooting for her, but she won't win -- this has come down to Joanie and Danielle.
Washington, D.C.: I saw Roxanne Roberts at the taping of "Wait, Wait Don't Tell Me" last week. Your dress was gorgeous. Where's it from?
Roxanne Roberts: Loehmanns, last fall. (Great deal!) The label says Phoebe, which is a division of Kay Unger. Glad you liked the dress---hope you liked the show, too!
Long Beach, Calif.: Any chance that the poker games from the Watergate can be broadcast on C-Span?
Amy Argetsinger: We'll make a few phone calls, Long Beach, see what we can do.
Baltimore, Md.: I don't what injury might have caused Keith Richards' brain damage, but I know his history of heroin use had nothing to do with it. Heroin (and other opiates) are benign drugs on that score. If you want brain damage, try alcohol. And given Keith's express fondness for Jack Daniel's since he kicked junk, that may be the answer.
Amy Argetsinger: Oh, this is probably an opportune time to catch everyone up who might have missed the papers on the cause of Keith Richard's head trauma, which either required one or two brain surgeries this week: He fell out of a palm tree in Fiji. Some reports indicate that a jet-ski accident may also have occurred. It's all very blurry.
Rockville, Md.: Any celeb sightings at the Volvo race?
Amy Argetsinger: Not that we heard of, unless you're into sailing royalty... anyone got any names for us?
Metro Center, Washington, D.C.: Last Sunday, a couple of members of Rent's cast were having a late lunch at ESPN Zone. All the girls (and mothers!) were comming for an autograph.
Amy Argetsinger: Rent -- still pulling in the drama-club-geek groupies after all these years!
Expensive nannies:: What about the one suing the Danny?
Roxanne Roberts: A good nanny deserves a good salary. The question before the court involves issues of compensation: Does this nanny deserve to be paid for hours she was sleeping? During the time she was living at the Snyder home, should she receive payment or overtime for hours she did not work? It's going to take a lot of paperwork to sort this all out. It's an interesting case about a very tricky issue: Household employees, who seldom work standard 9-5 hours and become part of a family's private life. We'll report as the case progesses.
Volvo race: A friend of mine saw Tommy Hilfiger when it was in Baltimore.
Amy Argetsinger: All right then! That's a start.
Arlington, Va.: Miss Manners says: a lady receiving a non-proposal should holler scatological epithets only loud enough for the immediate tables to hear.
Amy Argetsinger: This is so funny I don't have a way to improve upon it.
Roxanne Roberts: And the immediate tables should immediately call us.
Loudoun, Va.: What's up with Whitney Houston? Is she really in rehab?
Roxanne Roberts: Don't know anything beyond what the tabloids are reporting....but for her sake, I hope she is.
Amy Argetsinger: She's been in a couple times before that she's acknowledged; any current stint is in the realm of rumor (though certainly within the realm of possibility as well)
Anonymous: I noticed a couple of news trucks (including Fox News) along Pennsylvania Avenue -- where they have been reporting outside of the federal courthouse -- moments ago. I ride this route on my bike every day to work ... and the trucks are only there when something is brewing. Any word on whether a decision is near on Rove?
Amy Argetsinger: Just looked into it. Apparently it's part of the regular Rove stakeout -- they're there a lot, doesn't necessarily mean something's happening today. So glad I'm not a TV reporter. Seems to involve a lot of sitting-around-waiting...
Germantown, Md.: Hum, you showed up late for last week's chat, you don't know who might be living in that house on Glen Road, and you seem not to be concerned about sailing realty. And you call yourselves reliable?!
Roxanne Roberts: Yes. Yes, we do. Sue me.
Amy Argetsinger: Don't take this "reliable" thing so literally. It's kind of a stage-name thing. Sort of like the stuff professional wrestlers call themselves.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: What's up with the new writer of eonline.com's First Look? It used to be more objective, if I wanted clever snide comments, I'd go to perezhilton.com.
Amy Argetsinger: Don't know anything about the eonline writers (what, you think we're reliable or something?) but we like the shout-out for objective reporting.
"The reviews from the White House Correspondents Association Dinner are in, and the consensus is that President Bush and Bush impersonator Steve Bridges stole Saturday's show -- and Comedy Central host Stephen Colbert's cutting satire fell flat because he ignored the cardinal rule of Washington humor: Make fun of yourself, not the other guy."
Your only quoted source was Bush's joke writer. Did you have other sources and do you feel odd that the consensus view from the Internet is that you are very out of touch with the average American?
Roxanne Roberts: I feel odd about many things, and can happily report that the Average American doesn't give two shakes if Colbert was or was not funny. The Average American probably couldn't pick Colbert out of a line-up. The lesson, folks, is to keep this in perspective and keep the outrage inside the political blogisphere, where we can obsess about this until some new shocking offense gets us all worked up.
Amy Argetsinger: I don't have cable, which probably puts me out of touch with the Average American, but because of that I'm also one of the 99% of Americans who don't regularly watch The Daily Show and Colbert (seriously, check the ratings), which also puts me out of touch with the dreaded Media Elite (a key fan-base for those shows; that's why this crowd was so psyched for Colbert).
Therefore I only have one profound thought about l'affaire Colbert, and it is this: Stand-up comedy is hard.
Germantown, Md.: "Sort of like the stuff professional wrestlers call themselves."
So, in other words, you're fake?
Amy Argetsinger: Exactly! That's why we don't have pictures on the web site. Knew you guys would catch on eventually!
Roxanne Roberts: So, chatters: An hour goes by, and not ONE of you saw the twins this week? And you call yourself reliable?
Well, we love you anyway, so keep writing to reliablesource@washpost.com. See ya next week.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Post Reliable Source columnists Amy Argetsinger and Roxanne Roberts take your tips and dish about what's really going on in Washington.
| 174.608696 | 0.869565 | 1.913043 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401301.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401301.html
|
White House Talk
|
2006051019
|
What's going on inside the White House? Ask Dan Froomkin , who writes the White House Briefing column for washingtonpost.com. He'll answer your questions, take your comments and links, and point you to coverage around the Web on Wednesday, May 10, at 1 p.m. ET.
Dan is also deputy editor of Niemanwatchdog.org .
Dan Froomkin: Hi everyone and welcome to another White House Talk.
Today's column (which should be out shortly) is about the really pretty sudden and remarkable erosion of support for President Bush among Republicans and conservatives.
According to Adam Nagourney and Megan Thee in the New York Times, the latest Times/CBS News poll shows that only 51 percent of conservatives and 69 percent of Republicans approve of the way Bush is handling his job. "In both cases, those figures are a substantial drop in support from four months ago."
So what's going on? I advance a few theories in my column, but tell me yours.
Houston, Tex.: Mr. Froomkin, Do you think Bush should address the 18-page letter from President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad? Perhaps the response would be seen as an entry to transparency.
Dan Froomkin: I'm not exactly surprised that the White House hasn't responded more warmly to the letter.
As Michael Slackman writes in the New York Times: "With the tone of a teacher and the certainty of a believer, the president of Iran wrote to President Bush that Western democracy had failed and that the invasion of Iraq, American treatment of prisoners and support for Israel could not be reconciled with Christian values."
The full text of the letter can be found here.
But I actually love your idea, of having Bush respond with an equally extensive explanation of his world view.
Always a pleasure to read your column.
With President Bush's polling looking like a downhill run on a rollercoaster, where do you think it will bottom out? 30%, 25%, 20%. How low can he go???
Dan Froomkin: Beats me. As little as a few weeks ago, I would have guessed: Not much lower. I figured he had a core constituency that couldn't be shaken, pretty much no matter what. Now that doesn't look to be the case at all.
Wellington, Fla.: Why has there been so little attention paid to the incredible number of signing statements this president has issued? To me this speaks directly to the arrogance and imperialistic attitude of this administration and is an affront to the very principles of democracy that we allegedly hold so dear.
Dan Froomkin: I agree that this is a big deal, and devoted a lot of space in my Wednesday column to the topic. I'm certainly not done bringing it up.
Dan Froomkin: OK, the column is now live: Where's the Base? .
Nashville, Tenn.: Obviously TV networks don't have time to research every video clip they air, but you would think given that Ray McGovern was a CIA veteran and claimed to be citing Rumsfeld's "own words", that ABC would have taken the two seconds to type those words into Lexis. Had they done so, Rumsfeld's quote on the 30 May 2003 "This Week" would have hit them in the face. In a case like that isn't it standard practice for a network to air video which contradicts a previous position of a high administration official?
Dan Froomkin: You would think so, wouldn't you.
Sometimes I think Jon Stewart's the only guy in TV land who actually goes through news video archives.
Harrisburg, Pa.: If Jeb "I'm smarter than my brother" Bush were to decide to run for President, do you think the White House would be supportive or do you think they would prefer he not run?
Dan Froomkin: Funny you should mention that. This just in:
Bush did a roundtable interview this morning with Florida newspapers including the Miami Herald, St. Petersburg Times, Palm Beach Post, Tampa Tribune and Orlando Sentinel.
Bill Adair writes on the St. Petersburg Times Web site: "President Bush would like to see his brother Jeb run for office again and says he would make 'a great president.'
"In an interview with Florida reporters, Bush said his brother had been an excellent governor and is well-suited for another office. 'I would like to see Jeb run at some point in time, but I have no idea if that's his intention or not.'
"Bush said he had 'pushed him fairly hard about what he intends to do,' but Jeb has not said."
Dan Froomkin: P.S. Unlike his big brother, Jeb actually does speak Spanish.
Boston, Mass.: Al Kamen's article about talking points for the department of agriculture on the global war on terror is why The Post is a great news paper. In no other paper in the entire country can you read an article like it. Similarly with the great stories The Post has done about the Railroad to nowhere in Mississippi. You will never see an article like that hit CNN, Fox, Google news. Do you think the average American is aware that this is what government spends their money on?
Dan Froomkin: Kamen is indeed one of The Post's treasures.
For those of you who missed it, here is Al's In the Loop column from Monday: "Career appointees at the Department of Agriculture were stunned last week to receive e-mailed instructions that include Bush administration 'talking points' -- saying things such as 'President Bush has a clear strategy for victory in Iraq' -- in every speech they give for the department.
"'The President has requested that all members of his cabinet and sub-cabinet incorporate message points on the Global War on Terror into speeches, including specific examples of what each agency is doing to aid the reconstruction of Iraq,' the May 2 e-mail from USDA speechwriter Heather Vaughn began....
"Another attachment 'contains specific examples of GWOT messages within agriculture speeches. Please use these message points as often as possible and send Harry Phillips, USDA's director of speechwriting, a weekly email summarizing the event, date and location of each speech incorporating the attached language. Your responses will be included in a weekly account sent to the White House.'"
Washingtonpost.com then Web-published the attachment itself !
An example of a "Transition Example": "I'm looking forward to walking through the exhibit hall after our breakfast this morning, and seeing all of your agricultural products and services displayed in such abundance...
"But before I begin discussing the productivity of American agriculture, I'd like to take a moment to talk about a nation that is just now beginning to rebuild its own agricultural production...."
Interestingly enough, in terms of editorial comment on Kamen's story, the New York Times beat the Post to the punch. Here's the Times editorial this morning: "A furious collective heehaw is surely the only proper response to the news that ranking bureaucrats and other occasional speechmakers at the Department of Agriculture have been instructed to include 'talking points' of praise for President Bush's handling of the Iraq war in their routine rhetorical fodder."
Greenbelt, Md.: You ask, in your column, "Why is it happening?" You quote Podhoretz: "They've been fighting and fighting and fighting for years, and they see no letup in the hostility toward him or in the energy and determination of his critics. Faced with that implacable opposition, they've grown not disaffected but disheartened." Doesn't this dodge the real issue, that Bush has given his critics (and his supporters) a good deal to complain about? Is Podhoretz suggesting that the President and his defenders can be worn down into giving up, regardless of the merits of the policy being criticized? Doesn't that seem like a very odd admission?
Dan Froomkin: Well, you would expect Bush supporters to be tying themselves in knots about all this, wouldn't you?
New Jersey: Dan, it's been pretty generally accepted that Bush has really been shielded in a variety of ways from bad news - his appearances are before only supporters, his conference calls are tweaked to be more pep talks than anything else, he never reads papers, and his aides have been afraid to bring him bad tidings.
Do you think this is still the case? I try to imagine a truthful sit-down at the White House about, say, Russia and Putin's newfound assertiveness, and I can't, I can't see people putting out the whole picture for Bush as to how Iraq has weakened us, how the lack of oil conservation has weakened us, etc. etc. I just can't imagine anything other than people telling Bush that Putin is evil and that's why he's saying these things.
Do you think Bush is getting a daily dose of reality yet?
Dan Froomkin: There have been a few highly-publicized cases of Bush being confronted with people who actually disagreed with him. But I still don't see any sign that he is remotely interested in what they have to say.
Consider Bush's extraordinary interview with the German tabloid Bild on Friday. Before they could even ask a question, Bush went off:
"The interesting thing about Washington is that they want me to change -- they being the -- and I'm not changing, you know. You can't make decisions if you don't know who you are, and you flip around with the politics. You've got to stay strong in what you believe and optimistic about that you'll get good results.
"And so --the other thing I want you to know about me is that no matter how pressurized it may seem, I'm not changing what I believe. . . . I'm not changing. I don't care whether they like me at the cocktail parties, or not. I want to be able to leave this office with my integrity intact."
Bush strikes me as having a very rigid us vs. them mentality, but when the "them" is 63 percent -- in his own country! -- where does that leave the guy?
McLean, Va.: How bad is Luttig's resignation for Bush?
While his resignation letter said the Boeing job is a singular opportunity, apparently he became quite upset over the government's handling of Padilla.
Dan Froomkin: Another "This Just In!"
Fred Barbash writes on washingtonpost.com: "Appeals court Judge J. Michael Luttig, a leading conservative jurist and a short-list Bush administration candidate for the Supreme Court, announced today that he is resigning from the bench to serve as senior vice president and general counsel of the Boeing Co."
It does indeed look like there's plenty of backstory there, but it's too soon for me to speculate.
Washington, D.C.: From some observation of Tony Snow it seems to me like he will shift from the current Scott McClellen method of saying "I won't comment on a current investigation" and return us to the glory days of Ari Fleischer's "I can't comment on a current investigation and you are helping the terrorists just by asking" method. Thoughts?
Dan Froomkin: Well, I sure hope not.
In my column from yesterday, Preparing for Snow , I wrote about how it would be nice if at his first full-fledged press conference, Snow faced some questions that on the one hand put him to the test, but on the other hand gave him a fair chance to show that he's serious about explaining White House actions more forthrightly than either of his predecessors.
I asked you readers to help me come up with some. I've gotten more than 500 e-mails already -- and I'm accepting submissions until Thursday night. (See yesterday's column for instructions.)
I'm not so much interested in smart-aleck, gotcha questions. What I'm looking for is questions to which the average American would say: "Yeah, I'd like to know the answer to that."
Sneak preview: Here are some real-live examples of what I'm looking for:
* "How does the administration define torture?" (Brandon Garcia, Santa Fe, N.M.)
* "Could you describe the President's view regarding the separation between policy and politics?" (Anthony Wheeler, Peoria, Ill.)
* "The President has repeatedly stated that he 'doesn't pay attention to polls'. However, since more than 2/3rds of the population doesn't like the way he's doing things and handling the country, doesn't Mr. Bush think that maybe it just might be time to actually listen to the people of this country and change some of his decision processes?" (Bret Ryckmen, Phoenix, Ariz.)
Here's an example of what I'm not looking for:
* "Mr. Snow, could you please publicly explain why this administration, from the president to the pimply-faced interns, should not be dragged right out of this White House, forcibly removed if necessary for crimes against its citizens, theft of public resources, corruption, a war sold to the public through deception, a hijacking of fundamental Christian beliefs for political gain, also done deceptively, not to mention the less than stellar responses to Katrina, high energy prices and skyrocketing medical costs?" (Matt Ward, Las Vegas)
Baltimore, Md.: Dan, when will we hear you again on Washington Post radio? How did you enjoy your first foray into radio land? I for one, thought your host was a little too talkative and "folksy". I wanted to hear more of what you had to say.
Dan Froomkin: Thanks. I enjoyed it -- and I thought host Sam Litzinger was great.
The tentative plan is for me to go on every Friday afternoon around 2. I'll keep everyone posted.
Houston, Tex.: Mr. Froomkin, Any chance we will see more exchanges like Rumsfeld and Ray McGovern, (perhaps by the MSM) where this administration is called on discrepancies?
In fact, although as far as I can tell no one paid any attention to this but me, Bush got raked over the coals pretty good yesterday by a bunch of retirees. The subject was Medicare.
As I noted in today's column, one audience member literally begged Bush, on behalf of her elderly neighbors, to extend the deadline for picking a Medicare prescription drug plan. (He refused.)
Another audience member lectured Bush at length about everything that was wrong about the program.
Here's the transcript . There's excerpts in my column.
Today's Medicare event was much more carefully stage managed, however.
I can't tell for sure if the White House is intentionally exposing Bush to more hostile crowds -- or whether the anger is just getting overwhelming -- or a bit of both.
Seattle, Wash.: Dan, I have a speculative question regarding Cheney. I believe if the democrats gain control of one or both houses of Congress that Cheney may resign shortly thereafter. I don't see him responding well to actual oversight and questions from the Democrats. This would allow Bush to appoint a front runner for the 2008 Presidential election.
Dan Froomkin: You know, I might have considered that vaguely plausible... until I saw Cheney's interview with NBC's Kelly O'Donnell over the weekend. (Here's the text ; here's the video .)
"Q You have said you will not seek the presidency. You will complete your term. When you consider what it might mean for the Republican Party, would there be any benefit if you were to retire, to allow the President to choose someone else who might then have an advantage in 2008?
" THE VICE PRESIDENT: Well, I'm not sure it would be an advantage. But that's not my concern. I, in effect, took on the obligation when I put my name on the ballot at the request of the President -- both in 2000 and again in 2004 -- that if elected to serve out my term, I feel I've got a contract, if you will, with the American people, a constitutionally elected officer, my term ends in January of 2009, and barring some unforeseen disaster, that's what I'll do. "
My conclusion is that Cheney's not going anywhere -- even if Bush wants him out.
Two questions. Why did Bush's staff choose to endanger his life by mishandling that trip book to Florida, that was found by a member of the cleaning crew?
And will someone be punished?
From experience, I know the Secret Service provide "burn bags" to staff where sensitive documents can be discarded and destroyed. Staff apparently chose to bypass that.
Surely the professionals of the USSS are getting tired of covering for all of these Administration gaffes (Denver Three, Abramoff visits) - but this latest staff lapse puts security on the line!
Dan Froomkin: I had no idea what you were talking about at first. Then I found the story on CBSNews.com: Presidential Papers Found In Trash : "A public sanitation worker in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday found a thick stack of papers with nearly every detail of President Bush's trip to Florida on the floor next to a big trash truck.
"The documents offer the exact arrival and departure time for Air Force One, Marine One and the back up choppers, Nighthawk 2 and 3, as Washington CBS affiliate WUSA-TV first reported ."
You think this story has legs?
The only surprising aspect of the President's poll numbers to this conservative is how long it has taken for them to come down. Any republican that has an interest in smaller government, more federalism, and less intrusive civil policies can not tolerate this President anymore than left wing democrats. The idea that you are a conservative because you oppose gay marriage is disheartening to the movement and the leadership of the Republican party will have a lesson in governing the way that they campaign in November.
The libertarians aren't happy either, for their own reasons.
As I noted a few days back, Gene Healy and Timothy Lynch wrote in a report for the Libertarian Cato Institute: "With five years of the Bush administration behind us, we have more than enough evidence to make an assessment about the president's commitment to our fundamental legal charter...
"Unfortunately, far from defending the Constitution, President Bush has repeatedly sought to strip out the limits the document places on federal power."
Glen Ridge, N.J.: Where's the base? If you're interested, I thought this a telling explanation from a local newspaper, from ultra-conservative editorialist Paul Mulshine that effectively explains what many conservatives probably feel about (his header): "Why I can't stand Bush" - Before George W. came along, conservatives were on the winning side of every major issue. We were the ones who disdained the Beltway class, who pushed for smaller, more responsible government. Remember term limits? The balanced-budget amendment? In the Clinton era, the GOP promised such reforms. But then George W. took over. We've got term limits, all right. Only now we call them "indictments." As for Bush's promise to give us the balanced-budget amendment, that was about as valid as his promise not to get into a war without an exit strategy -- or any of his other promises. You can call it lying, or you can call it spin. Whatever you call it, there is not a single person in the administration who would endorse in 2006 what Bush himself endorsed in 2000." That's understandable(!).
Dan Froomkin: Certainly blistering. Thanks for pointing that out. Here's the link .
Alameda, Calif.: How is it that despite job approval ratings that rival Nixon's a month before his resignation, Bush is able to get the House and Senate to approve making the tax cuts permanent, as the Post reported today is likely to happen by the end of the week? When his ratings were high, I could understand how the White House could call up wavering Republicans and apply pressure, but what is he doing now to keep the troops in line?
Dan Froomkin: I think from this point forward, until further notice, you can assume that whatever the Republican majorities in Congress do, it's because they think it will help them at the polls in November -- not because Bush is putting pressure on them.
Baltimore, Md.: Does Mr. Meyerson have it right in his column today when he says that Karl Rove's big plan for beating the Democrats is to scare the Republicans about investigations?
Dan Froomkin: That's certainly part of it. (Here's the Harold Meyerson column in question.)
See for instance Jim Rutenberg in the New York Times on Monday.
And I see Howard Fineman is out with a new column on Newsweek.com in which he writes: "This fall's election season is going to make the past three look like episodes of 'Barney.'...
"The way I read the recent moves of Karl Rove & Co., they are preparing to wage war the only way open to them: not by touting George Bush, Lord knows, but by waging a national campaign to paint a nightmarish picture of what a Democratic Congress would look like, and to portray that possibility, in turn, as prelude to the even more nightmarish scenario: the return of a Democrat (Hillary) to the White House."
Of course, this presupposes Rove doesn't get indicted.
Dan, any web-streaming of your radio gig?: Curious minds want to know!
Dan Froomkin: All of Washington Post radio streams live at washingtonpostradio.com .
If everyone thinks it's worth it, we'll likely do a podcast of my appearances... Stay tuned!
New York, N.Y.: Re the "burn bags", doesn't this story recall the carelessness with which the White House treated the way Air Force 1 security details, which had been posted publicly online... the WH did not remove the posting for several days after it was contacted by a reporter (for SF Chronicle, if I remember correctly) reporting the security flaw...
And don't these stories feed the perception that Bush is inept at protecting national security?
Dan Froomkin: San Francisco Chronicle indeed.
Hmm. Give a reporter two facts and a deadline and what do you have? A trend story! So you may be right.
Austin, Tex.: Earlier in your blog, you included a comment from a reader:
"but no one has examined the psychology of the American public and press that elevated the man to such high ratings not for what he had done but for what had been done to us"
Actually, researchers (myself included) are looking into this. One article which was produced shortly before the 2004 election really illustrates the Rove strategy and how effective it was:
Landau, M. J., Solomon, S., Greenberg, J., Cohen, F., Pyszczynski, T., Arndt, J., et al. (2004). Deliver Us from Evil: The Effectsof Mortality Salience and Reminders of 9/11 on Support for President George W. Bush. Personality Social Psychology Bulletin, 30(9), 1136-1150.
Plenty more where that come from.
Dan Froomkin: Ah, just what I needed: A little light reading. Thanks.
I gather the abstract is here . Would you please e-mail me the whole article?
I found this quote from President Bush in the transcript from the session the President spoke at yesterday:
"Deadlines are important. Deadlines help people understand there's finality, and people need to get after it, you know?"
Is the President saying that, for some things deadlines are important, and for some things not? Because he sure doesn't believe in deadlines for Iraq.
Dan Froomkin: Good point. And speaking of deadlines, I have to run. Thanks for all the great questions; sorry I couldn't get to more of them.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
White House Briefing columnist Dan Froomkin takes your questions on the latest White House coverage.
| 298.75 | 0.875 | 1.75 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050801215.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050801215.html
|
Medicare
|
2006051019
|
Medicare Chief Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., was online Wednesday, May 10, at 1 p.m. ET to field questions and comments about Medicare's Part D drug program. The enrollment deadline for the new prescription drug benefit arrives on May 15.
Full Coverage: Medicare and You
Fairfax, Va.: Is there any simple way to analyze the Prescription Drug Benefit to quickly determine the right path for my 70's parents?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: First, it's great to join you all today, at such an important time in the Medicare program. The prescription drug benefit is already providing assistance to over 31 million seniors and people with a disability. With another almost 6 million having coverage from other sources, the vast majority of people with Medicare are already getting savings and protection against high drug expenses in the future. With the enrollment deadline coming up on Monday May 15, we want to make sure everyone can get their questions answered - including you on behalf of your parents.
3 steps to keep in mind:
1) Make a list of each of your parents' drugs, or just get the pill bottles in front of you
2) Make sure you have their Medicare number - it's on the red, white, and blue Medicare card. That lets us give you personalized help
3) Get in touch with one of the sources of help available right now. That includes our toll-free 24/7 customer service line at 1800MEDICARE (with help in English or Spanish), our Web site at medicare.gov, and through our many partners - including the Virginia health insurance assistance program, which you can find through eldercare.gov. Many of these partners are holding enrollment assistance events in Northern Virginia right now.
In a matter of minutes, they can tell you about drug plans that would be a good fit for each of your parents, how much they will cost and what kind of coverage they will provide, and even help you enroll.
Dunn Loring, Va.: Medicare will go broke in 12 years. Adding a $700 billion prescription benefit only hastens the day. And yes, I'm over 65. So my question is: why did the administration attempt to reform Social Security which is good for at least 30 years and ignore Medicare?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: Our independent actuaries recently provided their annual forecast of Medicare's long-term spending, and you're right to be concerned about it. The same is true for the rising costs and promises of our other major "entitlement" programs - Medicaid and Social Security. All of them need reforms to remain financially sustainable for future generations. For Medicare, prescription drug coverage is part of other Medicare reforms like providing preventive care that bring Medicare coverage up to date. Modern medicine is increasingly about preventing health complications, rather than paying lots of money for complications that lead to shorter lives in worse health. I'd much rather pay a few hundred dollars for the drugs to prevent the high costs of dialysis for people whose diabetes progress, of strokes for people with poorly controlled high blood pressure, and of hip fractures for our beneficiaries with thin bones - but until now, the vast majority of our $300 billion in spending goes to paying for complications of diseases that are often preventable. Up to date care with up to date benefits like early screening and prescription drugs is the only kind of Medicare we can afford. And now that's coming in Medicare.
Also, the costs of the drug benefit are turning out much lower than expected. In that recent financial report, the costs of the drug benefit are 20 percent lower than just a year ago - in large part because of the strong competition among drug plans that have negotiated lower prices, and seniors choosing plans that meet their needs at a much lower cost to them and to taxpayers.
We have more to do to keep spending down, but up to date coverage delivered at a much lower cost than expected is an important step. To see more on this important issue, I'd encourage you to take a look at a speech I gave recently at the American Enterprise Institute. It's available through the CMS Web site at cms.hhs.gov.
Washington, D.C.: Why did CMS chose NOT to adequately cover home infusion drug therapies under Part D?
These therapies allow patients to receive intensive antibiotic IV therapies in their homes, rather than the more expensive hospital setting.
However, Part D only covers the drug portion of the therapy. Pharmacists receive no reimbursement for the services, supplies and equipment necessary to safely deliver these high risk drugs.
Does CMS really prefer to keep patients in the hospital where they are prone to infections?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: Good question - because we absolutely do want to get people out of the hospital as soon as possible. Up until now, though, Medicare didn't provide any coverage for home infusion, that is, drugs given intravenously or otherwise in the home. Now, the cost of the drugs will be paid for by the Medicare drug benefit. In addition, many of the health plans in Medicare - the "Medicare Advantage" plans - provide additional benefits to cover the costs of administering the medicines in the home. And Medicare's drug coverage works with Medicaid coverage for these additional services for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. So we have taken an important step toward helping people get out of the hospital sooner.
Arlington, Va.: My mom is going to pick a plan for herself this weekend, with my help. I told her if she finds out she doesn't like the company, she can change later this year with a new enrollment period. That's right, isn't it? I think some people are worried but sometimes they are just not used to the kind of choices that some of us folks in our 40s and 50s have to make each year. Can I have your OK to tell my Mom things will be just fine?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: First, thanks for helping your mom. I've heard from a lot of adult children of our beneficiaries around the country, because many are assisting their parents in making their decision about drug coverage just like they do for other important decisions about medical care and finances. Our Web site, medicare.gov, has been used by many of them.
Every Medicare beneficiary will have a chance to change plans every year, just as Federal employees and most Americans who get health insurance through their jobs can do. That opportunity comes in November and December, for coverage starting in January 2007. And no drug plan can turn you down or charge you more because you happened to have higher drug needs or to be in a different plan in 2006. In the meantime, for the rest of this year, a drug plan must cover all medically necessary treatments, and if you are taking a drug when you enroll, they can't remove it from their drug list (formulary) for the rest of the year.
How many people have applied for and subsequently been approved to receive the low-income subsidy, and how many of them are now in a Part D plan (not including Medicare/Medicaid dual eligibles who were automatically assigned to plans)? And what steps is CMS taking to get the word out about the subsidy to those who have not yet applied? I think the initial CMS estimate was that more than 14 million people, including the duals, were eligible for the subsidy--is that still considered accurate?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: I'm glad you asked about the low-income subsidy, because that's another important feature of the Medicare drug benefit. Everyone with Medicare is eligible for the drug benefit, and on average it will provide around $1200 worth of help with drug costs - or more than 50% of the expenses for a typical beneficiary. But for about 1 in 3 beneficiaries with limited resources, there is extra help available through the low-income subsidy or LIS. The extra help pays for 95% or more of drug expenses on average - in most cases, just a few dollars for any prescription and zero premium for the drug plan. So it's an extremely important benefit - my friend Jim Firman, the head of the National Council on Aging, has called it the most important health benefit for low income seniors in 40 years.
People can enroll in the LIS extra help at any time before or after May 15, and when they enroll they can start getting the drug coverage. So we are going to be continuing our outreach efforts for people who are eligible, who are often hard to reach. To enroll, you can call Social Security at 1800SSA1213 or go to ssa.gov. And there are lots of pharmacies, senior centers, and other groups that are making applications available and helping with enrollment.
Altogether at this point, of the 13 million people who are eligible (not 14 million, according to the latest estimates), about 10 million have comprehensive drug coverage. This includes people with Medicare and Medicaid, people who have enrolled on their own through Social Security, and people who are eligible but already have coverage from another source, like the VA or an employer. So we have about 3 million more people to reach.
To do that, we are not only continuing to work closely with Social Security - they have been doing mailings, follow-up calls, and events all over the country. We are also expanding our efforts with partners like the NAACP and the National Alliance for Hispanic Health and many faith-based groups with great connections out in the communities where our eligible beneficiaries and their families live and work and play and pray. And we have started some new targeted "in-reach" efforts with the NCOA, in which we are collaborating to use their records on people who are likely to be eligible to focus personalized outreach activities.
We're very pleased that so many people are getting help, especially compared to the historically much lower rates of takeup of programs for lower-income seniors. For example, only about 30% of eligible seniors are enrolled in Food Stamps assistance. But we are fully committed to doing much more in the weeks ahead to get more people into this valuable program. We hope you all will help by letting anyone you know who has Medicare and is struggling to pay for their drugs and their food, rent, and other basic necessities about the LIS program.
Oakton, Va.: My father is on Medicare but receives his medical treatment and prescriptions at the Veterans Administration. Should he stay with this arrangement?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: There are many people with Medicare who already have good drug coverage that is working for them - and they should stay with it. Many people have retiree coverage from a former employer or the Federal government, like FEHB or TriCare. The Federal government is now subsidizing good retiree coverage, to keep it secure. And about 11 million Medicare beneficiaries are taking advantage of that. In addition, over 3 million Medicare beneficiaries have good drug coverage through the VA. Your father sounds like one of them, and if he likes it, he can just continue it. He could still join Medicare later, but he won't pay a late enrollment penalty because the coverage is "creditable," that is, as good or better than Medicare.
McLean, Va.: Is there any possibility that the prescription sign-up program deadline of 5/15 will be extended? What is the penalty for signing up after the deadline? Thank you.
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: As we get close to May 15, I get this question a lot. The deadline is part of the Medicare law, just as there are deadlines for enrolling in Medicare Part B (Medicare's physician insurance) and most other health insurance. If you don't enroll by May 15, you will have another opportunity to enroll at the end of the year for coverage starting in January. But the drug coverage will cost more, 7 percent of the average premium in 2007. That will probably be around $2 and change each month. It's just like other insurance - if you wait to sign up, especially if you wait to sign up 'til you really need it, it tends to cost more.
A lot of people who aren't taking many or any drugs ask me why they should sign up now. I'm an internal medicine doctor, and I used to treat a lot of seniors who didn't have drug coverage when they needed it, when they developed diabetes, or high blood pressure, or heart problems. Drugs are so important to preventing complications of these and other diseases. So one good reason to enroll is to have the protection when you need it - and if you enroll now you can get it at the lowest cost.
Another reason for the deadline is to encourage people to make a decision while lots of help is available. Right now, you can call 1800MEDICARE with just a few minutes wait time on average, because we've added thousands of trained customer service representatives. And there will be over a thousand enrollment events and opportunities to get help with a decision all over the country in the next few days. All of this extra assistance won't be there after May 15, so we're really encouraging people who haven't made a decision yet to look into the program now.
Silver Spring, Md.: My nursing home-bound mother-in-law has federal retiree insurance with BCBS. We think since she has coverage through them that she doesn't have to do anything.
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: That's right. If she has Federal retiree insurance, it's already subsidized by the Federal government and it's "creditable" coverage - she can stick with it.
Glenside, Pa.: There was some publicity around the original cost estimates of the Part D program and the CMS actuary who felt that the costs were being somehow understated by the choice of assumptions (maybe it was on the number of expected enrollees?). This led to some posturing in Congress like "I wouldn't have supported it if I knew it was going to cost that much."
How has that played out? I actually read through the trust reports that came out and it seems that cost projections are actually in line or lower.
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: For good reason, there has been a whole lot of interest in projecting the costs of the prescription drug benefit, and also the costs of other parts of the Medicare program. Up until this past year, all of those projections were essentially the best guesses of experts. This was a new benefit, and people weren't really sure about what it would cost. Last fall, we saw that because of strong competition and lower-than-expected drug cost growth, the premiums for the drug plans turned out to be much lower than had been expected. So instead of costing beneficiaries $37 a month, the premiums were only $32 on average, with plan choices in every state starting at under $20 a month. The plans knew that had to offer good benefits with discounted prices at a low cost, or people wouldn't choose their plan. And they were right to expect that. This year, we've seen that seniors are overwhelmingly choosing plans that are less costly than average. So the actual premiums that seniors are paying are working out to be about $25 on average. That's about a third lower than had been predicted last year, and that's a main reason why the Medicare Trustees Report this year lowered its estimates of the long-term cost of the drug benefit by 20 percent - over $130 billion in savings to taxpayers over the next 10 years, in addition to the savings for beneficiaries and states.
Rolla, Mo.: Why are you not allowed to negotiate prices with the drug companies, doesn't the VA?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: This is another question that I get a lot, and I'm glad to have the opportunity to tell you about how drug price negotiation is working out in the drug benefit. The drug plans providing Medicare drug coverage are negotiating lower prices - in fact, some recent studies have shown that prices are averaging around 27 percent below retail. That's one reason why the costs of the drug benefit are turning out to be so much lower than expected. If you're interested in more details, there is a study of the drug price reductions compared to retail prices and even compared to the prices negotiated by "third party" insurance plans like Medicaid or the Federal Employees plans available on the CMS Web site at cms.hhs.gov. Also, our independent actuaries and the independent budget analysts for Congress have looked at these savings, and concluded that direct government price negotiation would not lead to additional savings, because of the strong price negotiation already taking place.
A lot of people ask about the VA and its prices in particular. The VA is a very good program that is serving millions of American Veterans extremely well. But it's a different kind of insurance plan than most seniors seem to prefer today. It relies on government-run hospitals and clinics with government-salaried doctors, who use a government drug formulary and VA pharmacies. It doesn't use doctors in the community who often work with other drug lists, or community pharmacies (about 75% of VA prescriptions are filled by mail-order). So it's more like an HMO - and there are HMO options available in Medicare for people who want them that will give you more than $100 a month in extra savings on average on your overall health care costs. But it's an option, a specific network of doctors and pharmacies is not a requirement. Also, most Medicare beneficiaries are choosing to enroll in drug plans with very broad formularies, mostly covering 90 to 100 of the top 100 drugs used by seniors.
Pennsylvania: My mother gets less than $1,000 per month in social security and $100 per month from the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (thanks to my late father's employer going bankrupt). She hasn't enrolled in a drug plan yet. She's 67 and drug-free! She has no idea what to do. She can't afford to spend another dime. She's old-school - doesn't believe in taking assistance from anyone. She doesn't realize my sister and I pay some of her bills each month so she can live on her own. I'm afraid if she doesn't sign up for a plan, she'll end up regretting it if she needs a prescription. Until now, I've paid for her meds when she's rarely needed them and I've let her do my laundry in return. But, some meds are $$$. Where can I find information on the income limits for the low-income assistance? I really need to find out this information and enroll her in what is best for her without her finding out.
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: Good questions- your mother is very lucky to have you looking after her needs. Medicare is working with the state of Pennsylvania to provide "extra help" and zero- or low-premium drug plans to many people through the PACE program. The state of Pennsylvania, or the Pennsylvania health insurance assistance program (check eldercare.gov for contact information in any state) can tell you about it. By working with Medicare, the state is able to provide this extra help at a much lower cost. Also, even if you don't qualify for that extra help, there are drug plans available in PA for less than $20 a month. To find out more about them, contact us at 1800MEDICARE or medicare.gov.
Palo Alto, Calif.: Two questions:(1) If my mother is not ill now (68 yrs. old) and is in very good health, I'm thinking she should sign up for a $5/month plan (the least expensive), so that in 10 years or 20 if she THEN needs expensive drugs, she could always upgrade to a higher plan that would cover her needs better then (the reason for signing up for the cheap plan now is to avoid the 1% penalty per month). So, the question is: If she needs expensive drugs, in say, May of 2016, she would have the benefits of the $5/month plan until Nov 15th (paying higher amounts from May through November), at which point she could switch to a higher plan that would then -immediately- start covering her in late November?
Does this seem like a good strategy (for a very healthy 68 year old)?
(2) Can you explain the "gap" coverage or lack thereof a little bit?
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: It's good to know we have people online from all over the country, and also good to know you have looked into the program so carefully. As I mentioned before, each year you can choose a new plan. So what many seniors who don't need many prescriptions now are doing is choosing a low-cost plan for 2006, so they can get coverage in the future - including a different plan - at the lowest cost. It sounds like that's what you are thinking about.
The "coverage gap" or "donut hole" is a feature of the standard drug benefit design in the Medicare law. In the standard benefit, after you spend about $2250 on drugs with $1500 of it paid for by Medicare, there is a gap where you pay all of the (discounted) price of the drugs until your spending equals $3600. After that, Medicare pays 95%. Now, if you didn't have coverage before, this is a lot better than the coverage gap you had - you got no help with your drug costs, and now you get $1500 plus discounts on your drugs, all for a monthly premium that starts under $20. But a lot of people understandably want to avoid the gap. People with limited incomes who qualify for the extra help (see previous question on this) have no gap, and also there are a lot of ways to fill in the gap. Consumers Union has pointed out that you can save hundreds or thousands more, and maybe stay out of the gap, by switching to a generic version of your drug or another much less costly drug that works in a similar way. These drugs are often available, and at 1800MEDICARE or medicare.gov we can tell you about whether that's the case for you (or someone you care about) and how much you can save by switching. Also, all over the country there are drug plan options that fill in the coverage gap. That's another advantage of having competition and choice - if you don't want a gap, you can choose a plan that doesn't have one.
Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D.: I'd like to thank all of you for joining me online today, at this very important time for the Medicare program. I've tried to answer a lot of your good questions, but there were some I didn't get to. If you want more information, please go to medicare.gov (you can submit questions there too!) or call us at 1800MEDICARE anytime for help in English or Spanish.
If you or someone you care about or care for has Medicare, and they aren't one of the 37 million people who already have drug coverage, please contact us right away. 1/2/3- 1) make a list of your drugs, 2) have your Medicare number handy for personalized help, and 3) call or go online or go to one of the many events. This is the most important new benefit in Medicare in 40 years, it's much less costly and it has better coverage than people expected, but it is voluntary - it's up to you to take advantage of it. Thank you very much for your time.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Medicare Chief Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., fielded questions and comments about Medicare's Part D drug program.
| 214.681818 | 0.954545 | 10.045455 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800870.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800870.html
|
Moussaoui Fails in Bid to Withdraw 9/11 Guilty Plea
|
2006051019
|
Facing transfer to the nation's toughest federal prison, Zacarias Moussaoui served up what may be his final legal surprise yesterday: The al-Qaeda conspirator said he was not involved in the Sept. 11, 2001, terror plot after all and wants a new trial to prove it.
His efforts were immediately rejected by a federal judge.
In a motion in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Moussaoui sought to withdraw his guilty plea and be granted a new trial "to prove my innocence of the Sept. 11 plot.'' The filing came four days after he was sentenced to life in prison, a punishment determined by a jury that heard Moussaoui testify during a seven-week sentencing trial that he had planned to fly a fifth hijacked airplane into the White House on Sept. 11.
Now, the French citizen says that testimony was "a complete fabrication.'' In an affidavit accompanying the motion, Moussaoui said he never met lead hijacker Mohamed Atta, didn't know the other 18 hijackers "or anything about their operation" and was taking flying lessons in the United States only to train for a second wave of attacks.
He also offered measured praise for the U.S. legal system he has spent the past four years attacking. Moussaoui said he lied on the stand because he assumed he would be executed "based on the emotions and anger toward me for the deaths on Sept. 11.'' But he was "extremely surprised" at the jury's verdict, he said, and now believes "it is possible I can receive a fair trial even with Americans as jurors.''
U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema summarily rejected Moussaoui's motion late yesterday, saying federal rules prohibit a defendant from withdrawing a guilty plea after being sentenced. "Because defendant was sentenced on May 4, 2006, his motion is too late and must be denied on this basis alone,'' Brinkema wrote.
Moussaoui can appeal her ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit in Richmond, but legal experts said such appeals are rarely granted and would probably require a grievous legal error by the judge.
"His chances are zilch,'' said Victoria Toensing, a Washington lawyer who was head of counter-terrorism for the Justice Department in the Reagan administration. She said Moussaoui fatally undermined his argument by writing that he was telling the truth when he pleaded guilty last year and said his attack was to come after Sept. 11. "He was telling the truth for the plea, so it's no issue,'' she said. "The plea is good.''
Even Moussaoui's attorneys acknowledged in a footnote yesterday that their motion could not be granted under federal rules, but they said they were filing it anyway "given their problematic relationship with Moussaoui."
Moussaoui is not the first terrorism defendant sentenced in the Alexandria federal courthouse to attempt the maneuver. In 2003, Ohio truck driver Iyman Faris tried to take back his guilty plea for plotting with al-Qaeda to bring down the Brooklyn Bridge and launch a simultaneous attack in Washington.
Brinkema, also the judge in that case, refused and told Faris: "Any defendant who has no significant mental problems . . . who stood in this court, took an oath to tell the truth and gave consistent answers to questions the way this defendant did can't walk back into this court and say it was all a bunch of lies."
Yesterday's motion was another twist in the case of Moussaoui, the only person convicted in the United States in connection with the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Moussaoui, 37, pleaded guilty last year to taking part in a broad al-Qaeda conspiracy to crash planes into U.S. buildings that led to the Sept. 11 attacks.
Under federal conspiracy law, "it doesn't matter whether he was involved in Sept. 11,'' Toensing said. "He didn't have to know the exact date, time or method."
After the sentencing trial, a federal jury rejected the government's attempt to secure Moussaoui's execution and decided last week that he should receive life in prison. Brinkema imposed that sentence Thursday.
Moussaoui is likely to be transferred within days to the federal penitentiary in Florence, Colo., known as the "Alcatraz of the Rockies" or simply as "The Tombs." Once there, he probably will spend up to 23 hours a day in a soundproof, concrete cell, cut off from contact with anyone other than his guards.
In his affidavit yesterday, Moussaoui said the solitary confinement at the Alexandria jail "made me hostile toward everyone."
Moussaoui, who was sitting in jail Sept. 11 because he had been arrested on immigration charges a month earlier, has given shifting versions of his possible role in the 2001 attacks. When he initially tried to plead guilty in 2002, he claimed an intimate knowledge of the hijackings. At his actual plea last year, he said his attack was to come later.
But during the sentencing trial, Moussaoui testified that al-Qaeda had instructed him to fly the fifth plane into the White House. His crew, he told jurors, was to include "shoe bomber" Richard Reid.
|
Facing transfer to the nation's toughest federal prison, Zacarias Moussaoui served up what may be his final legal surprise yesterday: The al-Qaeda conspirator said he was not involved in the Sept. 11, 2001, terror plot after all and wants a new trial to prove it.
| 18.792453 | 1 | 53 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801012.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801012.html
|
A Leap of Faith
|
2006051019
|
For many years, Varun Gauri rejected religious services, practiced no rituals and spurned all mainstream notions of God. But these days he's busy dipping his daughter's toes in various spiritual waters, from a religious preschool to services at a number of local churches. Gauri says he wants to offer Yasmeen the moral foundation and spiritual guidance he believes religion can provide. Perhaps above all, he wants his daughter to enjoy religion's potential for providing solace. Recently, the 5-year-old expressed a deep-felt desire: "I wish people wouldn't grow old and die," she said. Religion, Gauri hopes, "can help her find some ways of living with that kind of loss."
Like Gauri, many nonreligious parents -- whether they've eschewed belief or practice or both -- find themselves seeking the psychological, spiritual and moral blessings they hope a religious background can bestow on their offspring.
Less-than-devout Americans may be surprised that millions of folks share the same pew. Sixty-four percent don't attend religious services even once a month, according to a 2003 Harris poll, and 21 percent don't believe in God or aren't sure a deity exists. Forty-six percent live in a household where no one belongs to a place of worship, according to the 2001 American Religious Identification Survey, conducted through the City University of New York. And 12 percent don't identify with any faith, the Harris poll found.
But at some point, a number of parents seem to flock to religion. In 2002, for example, the percentage of fathers who attended church at least once a month was nearly twice that of men who had no children, according to data from a major demographic study. At least some parents likely were motivated by a kid-centric quest.
Such parents may seek the sense of community or emotional security they hope religion will provide their kids; they may want a sense of purpose or tradition; and they may be looking for ethical or spiritual influences to mold their children's lives. For some, a religious education simply means giving their kids a better shot at understanding a cultural force that they consider both powerful and pervasive.
Whatever the reasons, nonreligious parents may face a number of humbling questions. Are they willing to trade sleepy Sundays for 10 a.m. services? Is it a good idea to start down a spiritual path when their hearts aren't in it? And what should they say if their 4-year-old looks up at them wide-eyed and asks if there really is a God?
Asked if she believes in God, Koralleen Stavish says, "I just don't get it." But years ago, at a relative's christening, an idea hit her: With no experience of religion, how could her kids make up their minds about it? Or, as she quips, if they didn't study religion, "how could they reject it properly?" So she joined a Lutheran church and enrolled the kids in Sunday school. She even started attending services pretty regularly, despite her discomfort mouthing prayers she didn't believe.
Still, the sacrifice was worthwhile, says Stavish; church has been a bit of mental-health balm for her kids. "Most families are probably like mine, a little scattered," with two working parents and lots of kids' activities, notes the Takoma Park mother of three. Kids like having "an order to their week," she says. "Security comes from routine."
Perhaps security also comes from believing in a big man in the sky. That seems to be where Victoria Stavish, 4, is leaning. "She sings some [religious] songs when she's scared," her mother explains. "Hey, she's only 4," says Stavish. "She's wrong about a lot of stuff."
Victoria's brother Christopher, 18, is pretty sure he was wrong about his early belief in God. Still, he doesn't regret his religious education. "I think it put a lot of moral values inside me," he says. "I think I care more about people because of it. . . . And I'm less likely to do things that would be considered real sinful." What's more, Christopher thinks it likely he'll find himself back in church someday -- maybe, he says, when he has kids of his own.
While religion may not be for all kids -- therapists say some find it too restrictive -- a few studies show it may play a role in preventing teen suicide, depression and risky behaviors. In addition, religious affiliation can solidify identity and cut confusion, says Lee Schneyer, a Bethesda psychologist specializing in children and adolescents. "Most kids at some point will have the experience of someone asking, 'What are you?' as in, 'Are you Christian, Jewish, Muslim?' " says Schneyer, who has discussed the issue with many parents. "It doesn't feel very good to say, 'I don't know,' or 'Nothing,' " he argues. "It's difficult for a child to say, 'I'm agnostic.' "
But there's scant empirical research on the psychological effects of religion on children and none on what happens when nonreligious parents sample religion for their kids' sake, according to Annette Mahoney, a professor at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and one of the country's few research psychologists specializing in religion and families. If parents contemplate such a move, Mahoney and others say, it should come with some careful forethought.
|
For many years, Varun Gauri rejected religious services, practiced no rituals and spurned all mainstream notions of God. But these days he's busy dipping his daughter's toes in various spiritual waters, from a religious preschool to services at a number of local churches. Gauri says he wants...
| 19.8 | 0.981818 | 53.018182 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801180.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801180.html
|
Educators Blend Divergent Schools of Thought
|
2006051019
|
In the first year of the YES College Preparatory School, community service was as important as reading, writing and mathematics. The public charter school's name stands for Youth Engaged in Service, and its mostly low-income students moved through city neighborhoods like young social workers, practicing their academic skills by collecting information on bus routes, health clinics and many other real-world topics.
"The kids loved it. It was great," said Chris Barbic, who was in his twenties when he started the school in 1995. "But there were huge gaps in what they knew. The kids could tell you the intricacy of transportation systems in Houston, but a lot of them didn't know who George Washington was."
Barbic then read the works of University of Virginia education and humanities professor E.D. Hirsch Jr., who recommended a Core Knowledge learning program -- full of history, literature, art and science. "That changed my life," Barbic said. "I went from what we had to content, content, content, content."
A decade later, Barbic said he has finally found the middle. He said he knows that progressives -- with their focus on real-life experiences -- and traditionalists -- with their focus on the three R's -- have been fighting for a century over how to teach reading, math and just about everything else. But he is part of a group of educators who say combining the two teaching methods is the way to produce the very best schools.
"We see lots of people blending these approaches," said Martin J. Blank, staff director of the coalition for community schools at the Institute for Educational Leadership in the District. Students become involved in community projects, and those experiences are used "to teach core subjects such as writing, math and science, and to improve reading," he said.
The James Irvine Foundation recently announced the creation of ConnectEd: The California Center for College and Career, as part of an effort to expand work-based learning programs that integrate high-level academics.
Several new inner-city schools, such as YES, have lengthened their day to eight or nine hours and are using the extra time to incorporate progressive and traditional methods that many educators have thought to be antagonistic to each other.
At KIPP SHINE Prep, a charter elementary school here, Principal Aaron Brenner is using the traditionalist Saxon math textbooks and the progressive Everyday Math textbooks series and finds 90 percent of his kindergartners are doing first-grade work. "We are able to address the different learning styles and brain functions of our large and diverse group of students," he said.
Some educators on both sides of the old debate say they think the marriage of opposites will fail or produce schools that compromise away their best parts.
"If we want kids to be deep thinkers, then why blend an educational model that features deep thinking with one that's focused on memorizing a list of facts?" asked Alfie Kohn, an author, lecturer and leading proponent of progressive educational philosopher John Dewey. Dewey and his followers are often called constructivists because they want students to construct their knowledge and skills through exploration of their lives and their environment.
Karen Budd, a mathematician and parent activist in Fairfax County who is opposed to Dewey's views, said she shares Kohn's doubt that the two sides can be joined. "Rich content with lots of constructivism mixed in is like saying we are going to let the free markets work, but we are going to mix in collectivism," she said.
|
HOUSTON In the first year of the YES College Preparatory School, community service was as important as reading, writing and mathematics. The public charter school's name stands for Youth Engaged in Service, and its mostly low-income students moved through city neighborhoods like young social...
| 13.25 | 0.980769 | 48.096154 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801398.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801398.html
|
Boston's Success Could Be Lesson for D.C. Schools
|
2006051019
|
BOSTON -- The sprawling old urban high school in a diverse middle-class neighborhood is so clean and quiet, it has the feel of an empty summer day. Eleventh-graders in one class work silently on algebra as a teacher roams, whispering pointers to individuals. Outside, the yellow brick halls are graffiti-free. And for the first time in a decade, the bathrooms are unlocked all day. In fact, the only remaining indicator of the Hyde Park school's urban existence is a metal detector at the front door.
This is the gleaming new face of the Boston public school system. Once so overwrought with racial conflict that it was deemed broken beyond repair, it is now held up as a model of urban school reform.
In the past 10 years, the Boston schools, led by the same superintendent, have seen a steady upward trajectory of performance. State and national tests show that while reading gains have been slower, mirroring national trends, math performance has been extraordinary. Seventy percent of 10th-graders passed math last year, compared with 25 percent in 1998. During the same time period, proficiency in language arts among fourth-graders went from 4 percent to 25 percent. Eighth-grade math performance has gone from 11 percent proficient in 1998 to 17 percent proficient today.
And 76 percent of the Class of 2004 -- the most recent tally -- pursued postsecondary education or training, up seven percentage points from the Class of 2000.
Officials in Boston have achieved these gains with a school district that is remarkably similar to that of Washington, D.C., in terms of minority demographics, poverty levels and overall budget. Few would dispute, however, that today the two districts are a universe apart in quality of instruction, leadership stability and achievement.
As urban schools nationally demonstrate growth in both state-mandated student assessments and administrative operations, Washington has consistently hovered at the bottom of the pack, showing some modest gains only last year, and has yet to turn the corner on stability. Whereas Boston's chief school officer, Superintendent Thomas W. Payzant, has been in place for a decade, Washington's superintendent, Clifford B. Janey, came to the job 18 months ago and is the fifth person to run the District's schools in 10 years.
Payzant walked into a similar and troubled situation in 1995. Court-ordered busing in the mid-1970s, and the sometimes violent resistance to it, had turned a decent operation into one of the most chaotic in the nation. There was no coherent curriculum, and there were no published standards for students or teachers. Financial and personnel accounting were archaic. And there were disproportionate funding allocations for special-needs kids. Superintendents turned over regularly after wrestling with a contentious and divisive school board.
Shortly before Payzant arrived, the city voted to shift from a fractious elected board of education to a board appointed by Mayor Thomas M. Menino -- a factor many say has been key to the superintendent's success. Another was that he toughed it out.
"There is routinely a lot of turnover in urban school districts. From the perspective of the teachers, each year brings a new set of goals, new programs, a new set of expectations. . . . And they haven't even begun to understand last year's plan," said Payzant, 65, who is widely credited with the turnaround and who is retiring in June. "From Day One here, you have to have a consistent plan and everyone on the same page."
Through partnerships with the city government, local universities and outside funders, the system has plowed money into developing standards, training teachers and principals, and splitting mega-high schools into learning boutiques.
Janey said in a interview that, like other urban administrators, he has looked to Boston (where he once worked) for "constructive guidance" as he struggles to bolster Washington's abysmal record. He has adapted Boston's standards in reading, language arts and math for the District and he has switched Washington to the Massachusetts assessment model, a new testing system that was administered for the first time last month.
Still, potential benefactors and educators are watching nervously, many privately fretting that although he is on the right track, Janey is moving too slowly. Some fault him for not immediately embracing outside financial contributors and foundations interested in providing the kind of extra money that was critical for Boston's progress.
|
BOSTON -- The sprawling old urban high school in a diverse middle-class neighborhood is so clean and quiet, it has the feel of an empty summer day. Eleventh-graders in one class work silently on algebra as a teacher roams, whispering pointers to individuals. Outside, the yellow brick halls are...
| 14.440678 | 0.983051 | 57.016949 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400659.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006051019id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400659.html
|
Talk About Travel
|
2006051019
|
The Post's Travel Section Flight Crew will take your comments, questions, suspicions, warnings, gripes, sad tales and happy endings springing from the world of... the world. Of course, the Flight Crew will be happy to answer your travel questions -- but the best thing about this forum, we insist, is that it lets travelers exchange information with other travelers who've been there, done that or otherwise have insights, ideas and information to share. Different members of the Crew will rotate through the captain's chair every week, but the one constant is you, our valued passengers.
We know you have a choice in online travel forums, and speaking for theentire Flight Crew, we want to thank you for flying with us.
You may also browse an archive of previous live travel discussions.
Cindy Loose: Welcome to today's Travel Chat. I'm Cindy Loose, your chat captain today, and on board with me are K.C. Summers, Anne McDonough and Andrea Sachs--all of whom worked on Sunday's guides to New York hotels--along with John Deiner and Carol Sottili.
Between us and all of you travelers out in chat land, we should be able to answer some questions.
And I have a question for you, if you've tried to book a frequent flyer ticket in the last six months: How'd it go? Did you get your first choice of dates and destination, and if not, what kind of compromises did you make? Did you have to pay premium miles, or did you get an award ticket for the minimum mileage? We've been hearing complaints that tickets are harder to get, and are putting together a story and tips, so would like to hear from more folks on what's been going down..
Sometime during the chat, I'll tell a helpful person that they've won a black, over-the-shoulder bag, handy for that extra stuff you lug around. If I choose you, you'll need to send your name and address to loosec@washpost.com.
Washington, DC: I'm looking to book a flight to Norway and Denmark this summer. However, I'm worried that demand and a decrease in seats on airplanes will drive prices high this summer. What tips do you have for summer travel? Is it better to wait until winter? Thanks for the advise.
Carol Sottili: Just a couple of minutes ago, I was searching on the United Web site and found a $461 round-trip flight to London for summer travel. I tried several different dates and price was always the same. It included taxes. It is probably an error - there is no sale - and it could be gone by now. But I'd urge everyone who wants to go to Europe this summer to try to book it right now. You can always get to Norway or Denmark or anywhere else in Europe from London. Search at www.united.com, iad to lhr. Search by price.
Chevy Chase, Md: My husband, 18-year old son, and I will be spending a couple of days in Laguna Beach in August, while my husband attends a conference. We would like to expand our trip in California for another 6 or so days. What are your suggestions for an itinerary that will be exciting for an 18-year old, who likes outdoor activity, such as hiking, and who does not like long long car rides. We have been to San Francisco, Joshua Tree National Park, and taken a short trip to Yosemite. Would Lake Tahoe be a good destination?
Cindy Loose: That's a long drive, and besides, great as Tahoe is, I love Big Sur even more, and it's closer. You son will find many great hiking opportunities there, the drive is gorgeous. You must stop for drinks at Nepenthe. The state parks are beautiful, with beaches and wooded areas both. At the Big Sur park with lodging--the name is in a story I'll post in a minute--you can hike along a river and then you come to this deep pool where you can sun on huge rocks and jump into a deep swimming hole. Elephant seals on the beach near Hearst Castle. That would be my choice, especially if starting out from Laguna.
Vienna, Va: I think New York City is a great city but do we have to showcase it in the Travel section so often? Think outside the box a little. For example, has tourism come back to the affected countries after the tsunami? How is tourism in Eastern Europe?
KC Summers: If by "so often" you mean once a year, yes, we do like to showcase it that often -- we have an annual NYC issue every spring. New York is a popular destination for Washingtonians and we'd be remiss if we didn't cover it thoroughly, although of course we don't want to overdo it. Folks, if there's a groundswell of opinion out there wanting us to have fewer NYC stories, by all means, let us hear it. PS -- We had an Eastern Europe package a few weeks ago.
Arlington, Va.: Thanks for taking my question, Flight Crew! I've never been to the Eastern Shore and was thinking of maybe taking a ride to St. Michael's this Saturday. I'll be by myself, so is it worth the trip? What is there to do in town? Also, about how long is the ride from Arlington to St. Michael's? Thanks for the guidance!
Cindy Loose: From Arlington to St. Michaels is 84 miles, according to www.mapquest.com, and it takes, they say 1 hour 46 minutes.
St. Michaels is a lovely little town for walking around, having a nice lunch, poking into shops. If boating appeals you could rent a kayak. But basically you're talking just walking along the water and looking around at a charming town. I'd drive that far for St. Michaels next weekend if I didn't have to paint my deck.
Silver Spring, Md: Are double frequent flyer miles allowed? That is, if I travel on American and have mileage accounts with American and Qantas can I get credited for both? It doesn't seem like they would let you do this, but I realized I may be missing out in case they do allow it.
Cindy Loose: You can't get both---you have to choose which partner's account you want miles put into. I assume you fly American more often than you'll ever fly Qantas, and if that's so, assign your miles to American. You can't combine the two accounts to come up with enough miles for a ticket, but you can assign Qantas miles to American if you do it when you book or before takeoff.
Arlington, Va: Hi, thanks for all the useful information you always provide. I read once in the Post that when you are at the airport and your flight is delayed, it is often better to call the airline to change your flight rather than line up with the masses. I have used this advice more than once. Someone recently told me they tried this method to change their delayed flight and were told by the airline that they could not change their reservation by telephone once they had checked in. Have the airlines changed their policy or does it depend on the circumstances or the airline? Thanks.
Cindy Loose: I have not heard of this, but am going to check into it. I've always done that in the past, and as a result feel I'm beating the masses to the punches. If this doesn't work, I'm out one trick.
I'll check it out soon, and report in CoGo if in fact this gambit doesn't work anymore.
Annandale, Va: I tried for some time in the past 6 months to book a miles flight to Australia on United. I tried several times each day to book a Saver Awards flight (lower mileage requirements) in either Business or First. I had no luck at all, and as I was getting al ittle nervous about getting a flight, I finally broke down, purchased the extra miles I needed and got a Standard Award business class flight for 150,000 miles (versus 90,000 for the saver).
Cindy Loose: I'd like to hear more. Can you email me later at loosec@washpost.com? thanks.
Annapolis, Md.: Do you all know if there is any way to get from Grand Bahama to any of the out islands that doesn't involve a $1400 private charter plane? I looked at the website you recommended to anotehr chatter last week - myoutislands - but I can't find anything. It seems that everything is based from Nassau, nothing from Freeport. Please help!
Carol Sottili: I don't think there is any direct air service or ferry service from Freeport to the Out Islands. You have to fly to Nassau and then you can get to various smaller islands. Anyone out there know differently? There's also direct service from Fort Lauderdale to several Out Islands, I believe on Lynx Air.
Washington, DC: Miles Question: I haven't tried to book using miles, but we
are planning to try to use United miles to go business class
to New Zealand fall 2007 -- we had effortlessly booked the
trip we wanted for 2004, but I was quite pregnant by the
time the trip came around and we had to cancel. Am I
looking at heartbreak when I try to pull this together this
Cindy Loose: I don't know---it's good you're not traveling in the height of the season, so I'm having hope for you. I'd recommend checking now, so you know what the prospects are. If tickets are scarce, you might want to plan your trip around ticket availability, rather than picking a date and hoping for a ticket.
Washington, DC: Congrats on the fine article on New York hotels -- that issue is definitely a keeper!
But what I don't understand is in the sidebar. How can taking Amtrak to NY be more expensive than taking the plane to La Guardia, even including the taxi fare to/from La Guardia? Something's really wrong here. I realize you don't report on the "business" side of travel, but you have, even if inadvertently, reported something quite unexpected. What are your thoughts about the economics of all this? Thanks.
John Deiner: Hey, DC. Thanks for the kind words, and the interesting point. Anyone who's taken the Acela knows that, if you hit a good fare, it's often cheaper just to go to the airport and fly to NYC. (Though, it should be noted, we reported that the train starts at $126 round trip, plane $140.)
But the train is wildly popular because it's more convenient. Take the train and you're in the middle of town, a few minutes by cab to where you want to go. Amtrak is just not a particularly inexpensive form of transportation.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Flight Crew,
Not a question, just a comment about using frequent flyer miles. I have miles dispersed among many airlines since I just look for the cheapest airfare and am not really loyal to just one airline. As a result, I had a fair number of miles with United that were going to expire so I used them to purchase restaurant gift certificates for myself. I also have unused miles with Continental and used them to purchase magazine subscriptions. I have converted American Airlines miles into gift cards. So I just wanted to throw this idea out there in case other travelers are faced with the same issue. It seems like most airlines offer other ways to use up miles for items other than travel. Try points. com
Cindy Loose: My favorite non-ticket purchase with miles: hotel rooms, if I have enough points for that, especially if I'm going to an expensive city. Anyway, thanks for the tip, and also, keep in mind that some of the airlines you fly are partnered with other airlines you fly---put your miles in one basket when you can.
Nervous Novice: Hi, which of the websites for international airfares are the most trustworthy? We haven't flown in so long that we're nervous wrecks trying to figure out all the ins and outs of air travel, but it would seem that the most important thing is a reliable source of tickets.
Carol Sottili: I'd do a search on the majors (www.orbitz.com, www.expedia.com, www.travelocity.com), double check results against a couple of aggregators (www.kayak.com, www.sidestep.com) and then buy directly from the airline.
RE: Frequent Flyer: I just booked DC-Peru on Continental FF miles. When I first tried to get the ticket my dates were not available on the return unless I paid double points. I went ahead and reserved without paying and checked the site obsessively every day for a week. At the end of that first week a flight at the lower price point level opened up one day after I intended to return and I grabbed it. The agent said there had been only 2 seats and the other one went while we were on the phone. My only concession other than returning a day later was that I have to fly through NJ and not Houston - NJ being a longer and less pleasant flight.
Cindy Loose: Interesting----and good strategy on your part. Thanks.
Northampton, UK: Hello. Will be going to Rovinj, Croatia late June. Read your articles featuring Dubrovnik and Split, very helpful. However, does anyone have any experience with the Rovinj area? I booked this really hoping it's not yet overrun with tourists.
KC Summers: I didn't make it to Rovinj, Northampton, but some day I hope to explore Istria -- it sounds so beautiful. Rovinj sounds like your classic Croatian seaside resort: ancient town, pine forests, beautiful rocky beaches. It does sound kind of developed, though. Anyone have actual experience here?
Fairfax, Va: Going to the Hudson River Valley and NYC for a looong Mother's Day weekend., and I have a few questions. 1. Has anyone been to the Morgan Lib. brunch? 2. Any suggestion for a Chinese restaurant for dinner? (Staying near the southern end of Cent. Park, but will be happy to go to C'town.) 3. Any suggestions where to park? I'm staying at the Y near Central Park, and don't know where to park the car. (Near, not in NJ!) 4. Leaving Wed. btwn. 7 & 8 a.m. for West Point. Any driving suggestions/directions? Any suggestions for where to get gas along the way? Thanks all.
Anne McDonough: I've been to the brunch, and it was scrumtious, but not for Mother's Day and not since the renovation at the Morgan--it just reopened on April 29, so you'll be in for a look at the Renzo Piano addition. For info on how to get to West Point, call the Visitors Center (845-938-2638) or go to www.usma.edu (here's the map they have showing major roads: http://www.usma.edu/PublicAffairs/wpmap2.JPG). For info on surrounding towns and other activities, try Hudson Valley Tourism (800-232-4782, www.travelhudsonvalley.org). Coming up should be a link to a Smart Mouth on Liberty View, a Chinese restaurant with a stunning view of Lady Liberty, which would be our suggestion. As for parking, the Y says there's an indoor parking garage right next door (800-421-6858); I've tried calling to check the price but they're busy. Anyone with direction suggestions from NYC to West Point? Chime on in.
washingtonpost.com: Eating Chinese With Lady Liberty , (Oct. 9, 2005); West Point 101 , (May 26, 2002)
Anne McDonough: For the NYC and Hudson Valley-bound. Thanks, Kim!
Washington, D.C.: I'm going on a cruise in two weeks and I have a couple of questions about what to expect. It will be a Carnival cruise to Bahamas, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.
First question - for the non-formal dinners, what exactly is appropriate for a woman? A dress? Nice skirt? I don't want to feel over- or under-dressed.
And second - I guess I just want to know, as a 28 year old going with a female friend, what it's going to be like?
Andrea Sachs: Dress is casual, but you can't go from Pool Deck to dining room. Think dinner with your boyfriend's parents: a summery skirt, simple cotton or satiny top, sundress, linen pants, nice khakis, etc. Also bring a pashmina, shawl or cotton sweater, since the ship may crank up the AC--plus, those Caribbean breezes are sometimes more cool than balmy.
Carnival definitely has a party vibe, but nothing is forced. You can join in the cruise ship activities (the ship will post daily events), and cocktail and party 'round the clock. Or, you and your pal can lay low, sun in seclusion, go the spa, catch a movie onboard, tour the islands, etc. Dinner will be social though, since you will share a table with other cruisers. But once you hit landfall, you can keep those other cruisers at sea.
Falls Church, Va: Hi Crew - thanks for taking my question...
I will be traveling to Rome with Lufthansa in a couple weeks with a friend. I just called the airline regarding seat assignments to find out only 2 center seats behind one another were left (I booked through Expedia). Any tips on how to snag seats next to each other?
Carol Sottili: You could try again 48 hours out, and then 24 hours out. But they probably won't release any more seats until travel day. Get to the airport early.
Washington, DC: Re: frequent flyer tickets...I tried briefly to book one using USAir miles, and had absolutely no success trying to book to Vancouver, and could only find a date for Sept going to CA. Seems almost futile. I have a burning (related) question for you and readers: has anyone tried to book a JetBlue ticket with TrueBlue points? I've earned a ticket and haven't tried to book yet. Hoping it will be a much better experience, given that most aspects of JetBlue are much better. Thanks!
Cindy Loose: No one here has used a Jet Blue award ticket. I do know that Southwest used to have no restrictions----i.e. if there was a seat, you could buy it or get it with regular mileage. Southwest changed that policy. Don't know about Jet Blue's avaialbility. Actually I asked them about their program a week ago, and no one got back to me.
Washington, DC: Regarding frequent flyer travel. My wife, the Keeper Of The Miles, tried to book me on United business class to join her in Bangkok last October. Despite scheduling well in advance, nothing opened up until she agreed to the premium (more miles, I'm not sure what the exact term is) level. Then suddenly it was no problem to get me booked.
On the return trip (short leg, thank god) they didn't have a seat for me in business so they stuck me in coach while my wife rode up front. Me = not happy. They gave me a voucher for an upgrade but I have yet to find a way to use it.
I'm seriously considering ditching my United mileage plus card with its high annual fee. After all, if I can't ever use the miles...
Cindy Loose: Thanks. If you don't mind, can you email me at loosec@washpost.com.
Anne McDonough: And for West Point ideas, check out this 101 we did a few years ago in honor of the school's 200th anniversary.
I'm flying into Fort Lauderdale for the Memorial Day Weekend,but i'm staying in Miami.Do you think it's necessary to book transportation in advance or would we be o.k.getting transportation when we arrive at the airport.We're thinking about taking a shuttle as opposed to a taxi.
John Deiner: Hey, DC. Sounds like a fun trip. Wish I knew the answer to your question, but, alas, I don't. Do know it's a pretty good haul between Fort Lauderdale's airport and Miami, though, so it'll probably cost you. I'm guessing you don't want to rent a car? Florida rates can be relatively inexpensive compared with other cities. If you go to the Fort Lauderdale airport web site (www.broward.org/airport) you'll find info on transfers.
Anyone out there with some advice for DC?
Atlanta, Ga: Cashing in Miles: I haven't had any problem booking free -domestic- flights using my miles, on both USAir and Delta. I do not even try for free international travel since I figure I can get more value for my miles on domestic travel. The same amount of miles necessary for one international trip can get me two free domestic trips.... two tickets to expensive domestic airports (those without Southwest or Airtran) often cost more than a single international ticket.
Cindy Loose: I've been testing sites and finding that for this summer at least, domestic tickets are easier to get than international anyway. Thanks.
Arlington, Va: My wife and I have been invited to a wedding in Ottawa in July. We're thinking of expanding the trip into a vacation in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and, maybe, Quebec. We've been to Quebec before, but not the other areas. Is 10-14 days to much time to spend in NS and PEI, or is that about right?
Cindy Loose: As much as I adore Quebec, I'd say given the time you have, you'll be happy to confine the trip to NS and PE Island. Anyone out there disagree?
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C: Yo-
A lot of people have complaints about what you do and don't cover. I always have questions about my various travel plans that you folks don't always seem to have time to cover. Seems to me the solution is to expand the Post's Travel Section!! Make some of the staff "specialty columnists," like someone who covers adventure travel, or family travel. I like it.
So...do flights to Europe typically have Fall fare sales, and if so, when does that usually happen? I'm trying to go in October.
Carol Sottili: Somehow I don't think that's in the cards, but I like the idea. I volunteer to be the luxury resort columnist. As for fall sales, don't know if that United deal to London is still valid, or if it extends into fall, but it's a winner. Usually fares drop somewhat, but not dramatically. Expect to pay at least $700 round trip.
Glover Park, Washington, DC: Hello Flight Crew,
In September, a friend and I are planning on visiting Peru (including Lima and Machu Picchu) and Colombia (Bogota and Cartagena) over two weeks. How expensive will it be to fly within and between those two countries? Do you have any suggestions for other things to see and do in either country, time permitting?
Cindy Loose: Before answering, or seeking an answer, may I ask why Colombia? Unless you have some special reason, I'd suggest sticking to Peru.
Washington, DC: I have hesitated to fly Jet Blue a lot due to my allegiance to the majors but now that they have no allegiance to me, is there a downside of flying Jet Blue, aside from having to go through Long Beach a lot?
John Deiner: Hey, DC. I've flown JetBlue a number of times and have never really had any problems with the carrier. And you gotta love that free TV. Anyone out there have a report on JetBlue?
Fairfax, Va: It's lees than 5 weeks till we leave for the World Cup. We are flying from BWI to Frankfurt on Iceland Air.
We are not seasoned travelers, and have 2 questions we hope can get answered:
1: Iceland Air, is it a good airline in terms of comfort and customer service?
2: What can I do during or before the flight to lessen the jet lag when we arrive in Frankfurt? Our flight leaves at 8pm, and gets in at 10am.
Cindy Loose: Iceland Air is a fine airline--they once let me sitting on the tarmac for hours when I arrived in Iceland during a snow storm and they couldn't be bothered to tell us what was happening and htat we couldn't get out of the plane cause immigration officials hadn't arrived yet, but other than that, the flights were routine, the seats as comfortable as economy seats ever get.
As for the jet lag--Try not to miss a night's sleep (i.e. consider a sleep aid for the planes, even something like tylenol p.m. does it for me) and try your best to fight your way through the day, rather than giving in to your desire for a nap. Early to bed the night you arrive, and the next day won't be bad. Coming back is tougher, I've always found.
Parking in NYC: i don't know why people are so intimidated about driving to and parking in nyc. i've never had a problem. garages are on every corner, and are generally cheaper on weekends. we parked last month for $31/day (our hotel offered to charge $43 for valet).
Anne McDonough: For the Y-staying, West Point-bound NYC traveler: Have no fear.
Lauderdale to Miami: When you arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, head outside of the baggage claim area. There's a shuttle service that will take you down to Miami for a reasonable price. My wife and I took the shuttle down to South beach a month or so ago and it worked out well.
John Deiner: Perfect. Thanks much -- but if you're still out there,how much is a "reasonable price"?
Question du jour: Yes, I've had an even tough time than usual booking award travel! Even on my favorite of favorite airlines, JetBlue, the restrictions have gotten pretty severe--seems like they're falling in line with the legacy carriers. Sigh.
Cindy Loose: Thanks--and that answers the Jet Blue question.
If you email me, I'll send you the shoulder bag I mentioned, and if you don't mind, I'm going to email you back for more details about your award travel experiences.
If you don't want to discuss it further, just say so in the email that will get you the bag--the two things aren't related.
Frequent Flier redemption: It's VERY difficult if you want to go to someplace popular (ie "normal") or at any high travel vacation time. Seats on the flight open up 331 in advance, the only time I've ever had any luck is to call that far in advance (at midnight..accidentally called on day 330 last year and didn't get the Christmas flight I wanted to Mexico).
Cindy Loose: I think Christmas in Mexico is never possible--tried a few years ago to buy a ticket to Mexico and realized prices were sky high not only cause lots of folks want to vacation in Mexico, but because millions of Mexicans living in the U.S. want to visit family over Christmas. A bad combo. Thanks
Washington DC: While you were working on the NYC hotel piece, did anyone find any good/new sightseeing places/food in the area? We're heading up there in a few weeks and I'm looking for some ideas that the guidebooks might not cover. ( and I'll be staying in the Jersey City Doubletree - thanks for the article!)
KC Summers: Hi Wash. I explored Brooklyn for this assignment and made a ton of great discoveries -- I'm so happy I got off the Manhattan track (not that I don't love Manhattan). I really liked Prospect Heights (a great little area with old brownstones to rival Park Slope, and quickly gentrifying). If you haven't visited the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park yet, go! I can recommend two great places to eat there -- the Garden Cafe, a tiny little place and a real find, though pricey; and Beast, a locals' hangout for lunch. My son, a converted Brooklynite, also raves about a good brunch place at 7th and Union: Scottadito, basic brunch but with unlimited coffee, juice and mimosa refills!
Just asked the others about their discoveries on this last reporting trip. Anne loved Artisenal, a French cheese restaurant, at 2 Park Ave.; not sure if it's new, but she hadn't been there before, and was quite taken by it. She also liked Apartment 48, a store on 17th just off Fifth selling housewares and set up like an actual apartment. And Andrea, who was downtown, loved wandering around New Amsterdam, near State and Pearl streets, a quaint cobblestoned area in the midst of Wall Street. (And if you find the earring she lost there, she'll love you forever.)
Washington DC: Hi Crew, hope you will give me the answer I want to hear! Am travelling to Mexico City and then on to Cancun. I ordered my plane tickets to MC on line and was asked whether I was buying from Mexico or US and paid accordingly. But then I went online to Aerolineas Azteca and got an incredibly good rate of 14,000 Mexican pesos, or about $132 for 5 people from MC to Cancun. The final printout said I needed to pick up my tickets from the office closest to my house. Do you know if I can pick the tickets up at the airport when I arrive? I doubt that Azteca has an office here in the US. We arrive at 11am and the flight to Cancun leaves at 1pm. Thank you.
Carol Sottili: I would try to get my hands on those tickets before you go. Have you tried calling a travel agent to see if they can ticket? It would be worth the fee. I also found this toll-free number for them - 888-754-0066.
Rovinj, Croatia: Yes, Rovinj is beautiful though it can still have a lot of tourists in the height of the season. The national parks there are incredible.
My two favorite things there were visiting the island of Brijuni, which was Tito's summer place. It has a zoo, and only one car in the whole island so it's very pedestrian-friendly. Beautiful, and you can visit for the day or rent a villa.
My other favorite thing about Istria was the "agro-tourism." We stayed on a farm, with incredible, friendly hosts who made fantastic gourmet meals for us. A real Croatian experience. The dinners are fabulous but can take HOURS! http://www.stancijanegricani.com/default.asp?op=gb
This was the place we went. One of the best places I've ever been.
KC Summers: Wonderful! I knew you guys would come through. Thanks!
washingtonpost.com: All Keyed Up , (Jan. 15, 2006)
Cindy Loose: For the person heading to the Keys--nothing wrong with Key West for babies, but consider whether it's worth stopping along the way down, assuming you're driving from Miami. The Keys before Key West are lower key. Take a look at this article for ideas.
Re: NYC: I really enjoy your articles about NYC, especially when they're affordable. There are so many fabulous things to do there that don't break the bank.
On another subject, I'm both amused and annoyed when I see that a certain other paper discusses touring, the high range of a daily visit as $2500, and the low at $250-- still more than I, or most folks I know, like to pay for just about anywhere.
KC Summers: Thanks for the feedback. Yeah, we don't know too many $2,500-a-nighters either (though we did have fun reporting the hotel splurge piece in yesterday's paper). We try to write for real people with real budgets.
re: Colombia: Colombia and Peru person here. Colombia was actually our first choice to visit, especially after the recent NY Times article about Cartagena. When both my friend and I were able to get another week of vacation, we decided to add another country, and had both wanted to visit Peru. From what I have read, both cities are relatively safe with the right precautions, but I would be interested to hear your thoughts. My friend speaks fluent Spanish, so that should be very helpful in both countries. Thanks!
Cindy Loose: Hi. I don't have personal experience of Colombia, and the State Department's website (www.travel.state.gov) does says that "Violence in recent years has decreased markedly in most urban areas, including Bogota, Medellin, Barranquilla, and Cartagena."
Still, there are warnings about the violence there: "Violence by narcoterrorist groups and other criminal elements continues to affect all parts of the country, urban and rural, including border areas."
Before I even post this I hear that someone is bashing me for my attitude towards Colombia.
Istria, again: One more highlight: seeing live music (Celia Cruz) live in Pula, in one of the largest (and better-preserved) Roman coliseums in the world, at sunset.
Try to see a concert there if you can! You won't regret it.
KC Summers: That sounds lovely. I definitely want to go back to Croatia and do the northern half.
Ledroit Park, Washington, D.C.: re: Frequent Flyer Success--We are spending 6 days in Germany for World Cup next month, then are on to Russia. Using our United miles, we were able to get two free coach tix on Lufthansa from Frankfurt to Moscow, then back from St. Petersburg.
Cindy Loose: Yeh--glad it worked for you. Sounds like a great agenda.
Annapolis, Md.: RE: St. Michael's
YOu can visit the Chesapeake Maritime Museum - lots of cool exhibits, interesting stuff. You can eat crabs right on the water. You can drive down to Tilghman (go through St Mikes and keep Going til you get there) and go for a ride on a Skipjack. There is a lot to do in that beautiful town.
Boston, Mass: In Jan. I booked a frequent flier ticket on United to Tokyo. I had tried for a business class saver ticket on a variety of dates with no success. I ended up swapping miles with a family member and getting the non-saver 150,000 mile ticket. For me, it was worth it because the price of the same ticket the day I booked it was over $5000. But it was frustrating because I think I might have been able to get a saver ticket if I had been leaving from Chicago instead of Boston.
Cindy Loose: Thanks. Might have been worth buying a ticket to Chicago?
Sedona, Ariz: A couple(my friends),took separate vacations but planned to arrive at the same time at Dulles. She was bumped. Question. When traveling, is there any way, while both parties are in their respective airports,to notify the other person that you have been bumped from your flight and cannot meet them at the pre-arranged place? They did not have cell phones and the airline reservationist said there was no way she nor the airport could arrange a paging of the other party at his airport.
Carol Sottili: You could always take the phone number for your friend's airport paging service along with you. This way if you find out your flight is cancelled, you can go to a pay phone and have your friend paged yourself.
Clinton, Md: A friend backed out of a trip on me so now I'm traveling alone for the first time and I'm super nervous. I'm flying to Seattle for a day and a half, then taking the ferry to Victoria for another day and a half and then taking the ferry to Vancouver and the bus to Whistler for a family reunion. I've never stayed in a hostel before and I'm nervous about being lonely and not having anyone to talk to. Any advice for this newbie soloer?
Anne McDonough: Hey Clifton--it sounds like you a have wonderful itinerary ahead of you, and by staying in a hostel you're getting right on the right track in terms of solo travel: Hotels aren't always great to meeting people, but hostels provide just the right environment. The important thing to remember is that you're ON VACATION--if you meet great people, that's fantastic. If you don't, in a few days you'll be at the reunion where you'll know more than enough folks. Also, you can be whomever you want to be when you're traveling--I'm often much more outgoing (and believe myself to be funnier, though I don't know that anyone else would agree) when out of my regular comfort zone. You'll be in an absolutely beautiful part of the world-don't worry about the people so much as think of all the great sites there are to see, all the good food there is to devour...and just how many minutes you have left to yourself before the onslaught of a family reunion. Let us know how the trip goes when you get back--that's one of the best things about these chats. Good luck!
Harrisburg, Pa.: Common sense tells me one should board a plane according to whereabouts on the plane: i.e. window seats, back of the plane first, etc. It seems to me that it is according to your status as a customer and then according to place on the plane, but not according to seating. How anyone thought to rearrange this so people board more quickly?
John Deiner: Hey, Harrisburg. I'm no expert on airplane seating, but I do know that that's the way it used to be. And even that way takes a long time. Southwest's method -- boarding by group and letting people choose their own seats -- can often fill a plane (surprisingly) fast. I understand some airlines are considering filling the outside seats (window and aisle) first then the aisle seats to clear things out more quickly. But it just takes one person fiddlin' around with the overhead bin in Row 10 to slow down the whole works for everyone.
NY hotels: Good call on both the Roger Williams and the La Quinta - we've stayed in both and would happily stay in either again. As far as rates go, make sure to check the hotel chain web sites as well as the consolidators; the last time we were in NYC (March) we booked directly through La Quinta and got a rate of $145, which is considerably better than hotels.com, Travelocity or Expedia were offering for the same dates.
Anne McDonough: That's a great point, one I believe Gary touched on in the primer on how to book a hotel room. You've got to shop around, and, on the flipside of your comment, if you find a better rate on a site that is NOT the hotel's own, it never hurts to call and see if they'll match your quote. I'm glad our picks are ones you've enjoyed-hope you had a drink on the La Quinta rooftop and walked off with the Roger Williams stationary!
Madison, Wis Last week, somebody asked and you confirmed that some countries require that your passport be valid for six months -before- the date of entry. I can't find any kind of official list on any government site as to which countries these are. Could you offer a link or a quick list? Thank you!
Cindy Loose: I've in the past sought such a list, but far as I can tell it doesn't exist. The U.S. State Department tells you if a given country requires that if you look up a country's requirements at www.state.gov, click on consular reports, then choose a letter, then a country. I suppose I could one day call up every country in the world and pull out those with a six months rule and make my own list, but I don't want to. My strategy is to get the new passport before the six months are up to avoid the issue.
I will be visiting friends in Mexico, who have sent me a long
list of books, including heavy medical textbooks, they want
My question is, what is the least expensive way for me to get
these books to them: As excess baggage accompanying me
on the plane, or shipped separately via the Post Office or
I know this isn't a typical travel question, but I hope you can
help me anyway. Many thanks!
Andrea Sachs: You might have to do a little comparison shopping. First, find out how much extra the airline will charge for excess baggage. Some carriers, for example, charge $25 to $50 per bag that exceeds the weight limit, and $80 (American, for example) for the first three additional pieces. Then find out the cost of sending: When I plugged in a 50-pound package on the Postal Service's Web site, I was given a $140 price. Depending on how mnay books you have, the prices could be similiar. The big difference, though, is the lug factor. Getting those books to/from the airport could be a hassle, and don't forget about immigration and customs. You might have to unpack those boxes and books.
Eating in Chinatown: There is a terrific and incredibly cheap Vietnamese restaurant called Pho Grand at 277 Grand St (take B or D to grand or a short walk from the F or V at Delancy).
Most the super-good Chinese is out in Queens, I've found. If the poster wants to trek out to Flushing, s/he should try Chao Zhou, Eastern Buffet and Taipan Bakery for bubble tea.
Anne McDonough: If the NYC-bound doesn't have his heart set on Chinese, Pho Grand sounds perfect-and thanks for doing the legwork on that one, and the rest, too!
Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: i hate to divulge my secret NYC hotel, but here goes. we stayed at The Muse (a Kimpton property) in Times Square (130 W. 46th street) last month for $186 (plus taxes.) The place was fantastic...beautifully decorated, friendly staff, free wine happy hours, perfect location, etc. It was an internet deal, if that matters. I'm on their mailing list. I can hardly wait for the next promotion!
KC Summers: I've stayed there and you're right, it's really nice. Fabulous bedding as I recall. But $186?? That was some promotion -- their rates are usually much higher. (It didn't come up on our search at all.)
Help sil vous plait!: I have a four hour layover in Charles De. G. in Paris. Definitely not enough time to clear customs and go into the city. What can I do that is authentically French/Paris? (good restaurant, bar, cafe???) For the record, I've been to Calais but never Paris. I know an airport bar is not going to be authentically "French," but just something to give me a little flavor....
Anne McDonough: Seeking authentically French, in-airport eatery: Chime in, all you CDG-travelers.
Maryland: May I ask why you would want to know why one would wish to travel to a specific country(like, I don't know, Columbia) before answering the question?
Let's assume people are planning trips to places they wish to go and just answer their questions. Your inquiry smacks of cultural snobbery and elitism.
Cindy Loose: I diagree with you--I think that if the person has something or someone special they want to see in Colombia, then great, I'll help as best as I can. But if they chose Colombia out of the top of their hat, I'd advise them to consider either staying in Peru longer or visiting another country in South America.
Things like this part of the State Department warning just put me off: "At least five Americans were kidnapped in 2004, and at least one in 2005. No one can be considered immune from kidnapping on the basis of occupation, nationality, or other factors. Terrorist groups such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN), and other criminal organizations, continue to kidnap civilians for ransom or as political bargaining chips. The FARC have held three American official contractors hostage since February 2003. Although the U.S. government places the highest priority on the safe recovery of kidnapped Americans, it is U.S. policy not to make concessions to or strike deals with kidnappers. Consequently, the U.S. government's ability to assist kidnapping victims is limited.
Official Americans and their families are permitted to travel to major cities, but only by air, and may not use inter- or intra-city bus transportation. They also are not permitted to travel by road outside of urban areas at night. All Americans in Colombia are urged to follow these precautions."
Sorry, that just doesn't sound like a great vacation destination to me.
As the Department develops information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threats through its Consular Information Program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens should consult warden messages for Colombia at http://bogota.usembassy.gov/wwwsc093.shtml, as well as the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Colombia and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement at http://travel.state.gov. U.S. travelers can also get up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 in the U.S. or Canada or on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
Maybe it's just me, but warnings about kidnappings and drug violence ladinKhte prothe Somehow, the protyr tell em what I know.that's different than just decidedco
native NY'er living in DC: Excellent article on the ins and outs of New York. One thing you did not hit upon as a way of saving money is food. NEVER pay for breakfast in a hotel. It will cost at least twice what you can pay outside. Look for the little "Bagel carts" on the street corners where a bagel, juice and coffee will run about $2. Also, look for the tiny restaurants on side streets. They are great for all meals including lunch and some dinner. In one block you can find Chinese, Afghan, Chinese, Indian, Deli, Middle Eastern, etc. etc. etc. Diners are also great. And cheap!! Splurge on one or two fancy meals, just to say you did it, but for the most part do as New Yorkers do and eat cheap!
Anne McDonough: Thanks for the tips, from one native to another.
Philadelphia, Pa: If you were going to Italy for the first time, and only had 3 or 4 days there -where would you go and why? I'm thinking Rome. I hope to spend a longer holiday there in a year or two, but can only spend a long weekend there this year. Thanks!
KC Summers: You can't go wrong with Rome (and by the way, you're smart to keep it to one city, with your limited time). You might also consider Florence -- an equally incredible city, and that way maybe you could do a day trip to some hill towns. If you do Rome, I suggest a day trip to Hadrian's Villa.
Re: Colombia: I used to live in Colombia, and with the right precautions and a fluent Spanish speaker in tow, you'll be fine. Cartagena is usually swarmed with international tourists. I lived in Bogota and loved it, but the real place to see is the coffee growing region - you can stay in a finca, or coffee ranch/b&b for very cheap. The best ones have swimming pools, horses, and gorgeous hiking trails. Look around Pereira.
Colombia is a beautiful, amazing country, and worth seeing. It's not for travel amateurs or for the weak, but it's incredible as long as you stick to major cities and show a little common sense.
Cindy Loose: Here's someone with a different, well-reasoned and informed view......
Jet lag: Good advice, Cindy, but to "Early to bed the night you arrive" I would add: but not -too- early, or you'll be wide awake at 3 a.m. Try to make it at least to 10 or so.
Cindy Loose: And of course to make that goal, skip the German brews the first afternoon in country...
Bahamas, again: Can you recommend any good resorts on Grand Bahama that are not in downtown Freeport - that offer some solitude and peace? The Sheraton is sold out during our time frame, we are considering the Westin. Any others we should look at that will offer comfort and relaxation and a hint of luxury?
Cindy Loose: Isn't the Westin right next door to the Sheraton? That's my memory of the place. Also, if oceanfront isn't critical, the Pelican Bay is just across the street. You pay less, it's very, very quiet, and you can get a bracelet to go across the street to use the beaches of either the Westin or Sheraton.
Another FF story: This past September, my grandfather passed away and my mom and I called Northwest to book flights to Manila for the follwing day. Fares were outrageous - almost $3000 for the last minute fare. My mom ended up using 120,000 miles for her and another 120,000 miles for me. Beats paying almost $6000. Incidentally, Northwest waived the service charge because we were traveling for a funeral.
Cindy Loose: Glad to hear Northwest came through. Thanks.
CdG layover: Mmmm, the Hermes duty-free store? Get lots of French magazines at the Relais newstand - French Vogue is different, bien sur, from the one chez nous. Not a lot of choices, unfortunately.
Anne McDonough: Well, they'll be well-read if not fed. Thanks!
Brussels, Belgium: Hi flight crew! My husband and I had a _great_ experience using our American Airlines miles for two tickets Brussels-LAX-San Fran-Brussels in March. When we booked in January there was a promotion for intercontinental mileage tickets and we only had to use 40,000 miles each! The flights weren't the most convenient (it would have been less tiring to not have to stop in JFK each way... we're taking a non-free flight to San Francisco later this month through London which will be much easier because we'll just spend less time in transit) but for the price we can't complain. And we got the dates we wanted with no problem (we were traveling for a wedding, so couldn't be flexible).
What I can comlain about in NY-LA flights. Ugh, they have squeezed a lot of seats on those planes! And the place was dirty. Crumbs, stains, smells, ick. Otherwise a pleasant flight and pleasant crew, so I can't complain too much.
Cindy Loose: Wonderful! Summer tickets to Europe are tough, but glad you made it in March. Flexibillity and timing are everything, I think.
post-world cub Strasbourg: Plan on spending a week in Strasbourg (and elsewhere in Alsace) doing family genealogy research in July/August - post World Cup. Can we expect a lot of places to be closed down and relaxing after the Cup action? Or is Strasbourg too far away from the German venues for daytrippers?
Cindy Loose: I've not heard of any place closing up to rest up from the Cup. I'm guessing the work ethic will keep on turning everywhere after the games.
Washington DC: On a rainy Monday, I'm dreaming of a fun snorkling and beach getaway. I was fascinated by the recent story on Belize and was hoping you could point me in the right direction. Is July/August a good time to head down? Any particular cities to plan my home base? I was looking online and there are a few "packages" but nothing through my usual, white-bread engines (i.e. travelocity, expedia) - anything ya'll or the other clicksters can recommend?
KC Summers: Hi Wash, you will love Belize, although some say August is not the best time to go. May through September are the hottest months and it can be dry and windy. Definitely not high season, though, so less crowded. As for cities, many folks park themselves in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and never leave -- I think that's a mistake. It's a swell island and the diving/snorkeling is awesome, but save some time for the interior -- stay at a jungle lodge and explore some Mayan ruins. Also think about heading south to Placencia, which gives new meaning to 'laid-back.' Whatever you do will be fun though!
McLean, Va: Dear Flight Crew,
I recently had to acquire a CPAP machine to deal with my sleep apenea. When I acquired the machine, the medical equipment company told me that, as medical equipment, it did not count towards the standard 1+1 carry-on limits. For the past few flights, I tried not to test that exception, but on a recent extended West Coast trip, I had to. My carry-ons were the CPAP in its case, my laptop, and business papers I could not afford to lose in checked baggage. On the outbound leg, I got a load of grief from a United ground crew woman, even when I told them that the CPAP qualified as medical equipment. On the way back, I checked in early to explain my situation, and again got a load of grief from a United ground crew woman, who told em that the airline will shortly get fined by the FAA for allowing passengers to exceed the 1+1 limit.
Interestingly, on the middle leg of my trip, got nothing but great cooperation from the Alaska airline ground crew woman when I explained my situation.
I've spent a couple of hours checking through the FAA and TSA sites, and have found that there is no record of any forthcoming change to the 1+1 rule, and that medical equipment is still excepted from the 1+1 rule.
So....can you add to or revise my research findings? Does United have any justification for giving me a hard time about my extra bag? Based on my conversations with the United personnel, having a copy of the FAA regulations with me would have made no difference in their stance. What recourse do I have for those unavoidable occasions when I have to fly (ugh) United? I am NOT going to put a $1500 piece of medical equipment or my laptop into checked baggage.
Cindy Loose: Can't you carry on the machine and laptop and check your other stuff, or am I missing something?
Superior, Wis: I just discovered a new bus company called Megabus which offers bus rides from Chicago to Minneapolis, Cleveland, or Cincinnati starting at only a buck! Really! I've ridden it and it's great! It's weird, though, taking a bus from Chicago to Minneapolis for less than it costs to ride the L!
You can only buy "tickets" online. They give you a reservation number and that's your "ticket."
Oh, and no, I do not own any stock in this company, though with the high gas prices, I may invest in some of their stock. Their service is new and I expect their business to soar!
KC Summers: Okay, for you Windy City chatters...
Frequent Flier Ticket -- Washigton, DC: Love the chats! I am THRILLED to report I booked a ticket a few weeks back on Delta for open-jaw travel to South Africa (into J'burg, out of Cape Town). Things were just as smooth and easy as when I booked award travel to Japan, Phoenix around holiday time in the past.. Delta didn't have any spaces so the ticket was booked on their partner, South African Airways. I've got direct flights IAD to Jburg and back (YAY!). It only took about 15 min of time to book (including waiting for an operator) and it cost the minimum 80k miles (I thought I was going to be 90k miles) plus about $80 in fees/taxes. I am leaving a day later than I originally hoped, but that's mainly because I'm flying out right after Thanksgiving and those reward tix usu get snatched up as soon as they are made available at the beginning of the year. All in all no complaints from me.
Cindy Loose: Overseas over Thanksgiving! Wow! Good to know. Thanks for the insights.
Sterling Va: Hi,Me and my wife and our little baby are going to Miami and Key West. She will be 6 months old when we fly on the July 4th weekend. Any advice on stuff we can do with the baby. How child friendly is Miami and Key West?
Any family unfriendly places that we should avoid while in Miami?
Andrea Sachs: Since six months is pretty young, you will be somewhat limited in your activities, especially when it comes to water sports. But in Key West, your family might enjoy the Key West Nature Preserve, the Key West Marine Park, and Fort Zachery beach and park. Mallory Square might be fun, but it could also be overwhelming for a little one (especially at and after sunset). But check out the turtle races at Turtle Kraals restaurant, the Conch Baby Farm, the Key West Aquarium and the Turtle Kraals Museum (depending on the time, you might see volunteers feed the baby turtles).
For Miami, the tourism office has a Family Fun page on its Web site (www.gmcvb.com/visitors/familyfun.asp)with some great ideas.
Arlington, Va: Hi, Thanks for this great forum and all the travel ideas/inspiration from you and your readers. Regarding frequent flyer miles, my BF and I ended up changing our destination for a February getaway in order to use the free miles. We could not get a free ticket to Cancun for our dates, and the airfares were too high. Next we looked at Quito, Ecuador and Costa Rica--no luck. Then we tried Guatemala City and were able to get a ticket. Unfortunately, we had to pay $500 for the second one plus a $50 surcharge. I guess we could have done better, but it wasn't too bad for less than a month in advance. I later met travelers who got cheaper tickets through TACA.
US Air's Web site (the frequent flyer redemption section) was very difficult to use, and it took me about four hours to figure out how to use it (and I work on Web sites for a living, so if I can't navigate it, I'm sure I'm not the only one!) The site didn't allow us to purchase one frequent flyer ticket and one regular ticket at the same time, which is what we wanted to do. It took a long time for them to respond to our e-mailed questions, but then we got a great person on the phone helping out.
All in all, it was probably worth it to use the miles. I would suggest booking way in advance and being flexible in your destinations if possible. And don't try to get help through email.
Cindy Loose: Thanks---you all are revealing some of my tips a week early. But good to hear from other folks to confirm what I've been hearing about the FF experience.
CDG dining: Brasserie Flo is a reasonably authentic Parisian brasserie with a wide menu selection. It's in CDG terminal 2F and it's a good place for a leisurely sit-down meal during a layover - it doesn't feel too "airporty" at all.
Anne McDonough: Ah, merci beaucoup ma chere. The poster shan't go without her Parisian fix.
Washington, DC: Due to a lot of work, and a whole bunch of weddings my wife and I have not been on a "real" vacation, with just the two of us, for quite some time. We're looking to change that with a big trip in early July, but were looking for something shorter over the Memoral Day weekend, just to break things up a bit and get out of the city.
Unfortunately, we have absolutely no good ideas on where we should go. Where would you go for four days in late May?
KC Summers: Just polled the gang:
Cindy: Can't decide, but would make it a direct flight or a drive -- no connecting flights!
United Mileage Plus visa card: This is in response to the poster who complained about the annual fee on his United visa. I had the same problem. I called to cancel the card and told them it was due to the annual fee. They then told me there is a United visa card with no annual fee (might be a higher interest rate).
Cindy Loose: Great advice. I've had the same experience with different cards---seems like agents have discretion to waive fees. Think is they want your fee and a chance at interest on a balance, and if they can't get both, they'll often take the one they can get.
frequent flier tix: I recently redeemed frequent flier miles for the first time and was pleasantly surprised to have no problems at all. I redeemed 60,000 American Airlines miles for 2 Economy Class tickets to St. Kitts (SKB)from Chicago (ORD) in March 2006. Flights were available for the week I was looking for, and I easily redeemed my miles on American's website.
I also had a recent good experience with a free United Airlines flight voucher. I received the voucher for giving up my seat on an early Saturday morning flight from ORD to CLT and was put on the next flight (about 2 hours later) - in first class, no less. Redeeming the voucher was trouble free too - all I had to do was call United to schedule the flights and mail in the voucher.
KC Summers: Excellent. Thanks for the reality check.
Washington, D.C.: I had an excellent frequent flyer purchase experience recently. I used 50,000 USAirways miles to fly to Germany a week and a half ago. When I called to book the ticket (in early March), I got the last Star Alliance seat (on SAS) available to Berlin on my preferred departure date. For my return date, there was nothing from any city in Germany back to DC. So I put a hold on a flight from Amsterdam -- the agent was really helpful and looked up all the possible cities for me. I really wanted to leave from Paris, but that wasn't available. I called back a couple of days later, and Paris was available! At that point, some German cities were available too, but it was so cheap to fly to Paris on easyJet, so I did that.
I had a similar experience when I decided to change my return date. At first, nothing was available from Paris on the new date. I kept calling back for about a week, and then a flight became available. I got back yesterday and it was a great trip -- can't wait to earn more miles to fly!
KC Summers: Another positive experience. Thanks.
Using miles: I have a good story of mileage working out for me. I had planned on going to a friend's wedding in England before I started dating my now-husband. I was going to fly into Manchester on US Airways, which would've required business class miles. Luckily, my husband was able to get a discount through STA on United, and because US Airways and United are code share partners, I was able to use my US Air miles on the same United flight, for only regular coach miles. And happily, we had very nice seatmates who agreed to switch seats with us so we could sit next to each other (after we told them we had just gotten engaged- which was sort of true, since he proposed during that trip).
KC Summers: Lucky you. Thanks for checking in.
Arlington, Va: How far in advance is the person trying to go to Australia on miles planning? I think premium seats (biz and first) on those flights are few and go pretty much the day they are available (which is 330 days before the flight in most cases). Several years ago I flew business class IAD-MEL returning form SYD and got my ticket on a saver award in early January for a November departure. Even then I had to adjust my return by a day later in order to get a ticket. I have also had better luck calling and talking to a person than I have had using United's website. The website never seems to show what's really available and doesn't show any of the partner airlines' availability. The agents on the phone can book on multiple lines if they are willing to bother to help you. I flew biz class to Malta on US Airways,Lufthansa, and United using United miles. Because it was on three airlines the trip required some sort of supervisory approval and pulling of strings. That trip was 2 years ago. The person looking for New Zealand in the Fall of 2007 won't be able to book until some time this autumn.
KC Summers: Interesting -- thanks for the tips/advice.
Silver Spring, Md: There has been a lot of discussion on the blogs and in the paper about the young lady who was forced to check her bag and had her laptop stolen. I've been in the situation too where there just wasn't anywhere to put my bag in a bin.
So I have to ask. When was the last time you saw a gate agent make someone measure their bag in the rack next to the boarding desk for that very purpose? I've never seen anyone be told that their carry-on was over the size limit, so why do they even bother to have those boxes there? I's sure the flight attendant's union would love for the airlines to start enforcing the size limits, I know I sure would.
Cindy Loose: I agree---enforce the bag thing and we'd all get on the plane faster, off the plane faster, and be less likely to be hit on the head by overburdened passengers.
FF Rewards on CO: I have booked 3 reward tickets so far this year on Continental out of Houston - 2 to Orlando and 1 to Newark. Both times had to use standard points, but had no problem booking. Since both Houston and Newark are Continental's hubs I felt that was pretty reasonable.
Alexandria, Va: Regarding frequent flier miles, I booked a free ticket (not miles but subject to same rules - only good where saver awards were available) to Australia on United. My trouble was coming up with the best fare for the one ticket we had to buy, but frequent flier seats were available on all the itineraries I tried. I think it helped that we are going in late September, after all the kids are back in school. The biggest downside is that the free ticket is not upgradeable, so my 6'5" tall boyfriend will be suffering!
KC Summers: Yep, timing is everything. Thanks for the report.
Layover purgatory: Ok, so I'm at JFK for 5 hours in the middle of a Thursday on the way overseas. Apart from confronting the fact that I was a horrible person in a past life, is there anything to do? ANywhere I could get out and see - and get back?
Cindy Loose: You, I'm afraid, will have to pay for your sins, and that's that. There is a bird sanctuary nearby in Jamaica Bay, but while you could get a cab to take you there and it's a nice place to walk around, I don't know how you'd get a cab back to the airport. JFK is really out there.
Authentic French Experience at CDG: You could ask a cabbie to drive you around the airport acess roads for a half hour or so, then listen to the sonorous sounds of personal abuse a la Francais.
Cindy Loose: One last suggestion for JFK.
Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: I used frequent flyer miles in November to book a ticket to my grandpa's funeral. As I had zero notice of this event, it was sort of tricky. I called US Air and the first person wasn't helpful, so I hung up and called again. The second person booked the ticket, but I had to pay a $75 fee for booking last minute. My sister booked using miles through United and we were on the same flight, but she didn't have to pay. I called US Air afterwards and asked them to waive the fee, since it was an emergency and I wasn't anticipating booking like that, but they refused. (although of course $75 was a lot less than buying a ticket the day before)
KC Summers: If at first you don't succeed -- you might not succeed again. Thanks (and sorry for your loss).
S. Rockville, Md: FF miles: I booked into Vegas for St. Patrick's day, using credit card miles vs. true frequent flier miles. I had to adjust the flight I wanted (earlier coming back instead of the later one I wanted), and had to use a different airline to get under the price ceiling for the number of miles I wanted to use. I booked only three months out, but was still able to get where I wanted, basically when I wanted. Don't know if I would have gotten there using an airline's miles.
Cindy Loose: Interesting. don't think the source of the miles made any difference. but glad you got where you wanted to go.
Award Tickets: I was lucky enough to get an award ticket for a destination with only 1 weekly flight. I had a couple of weeks that I could choose, and the airfare for my husband was the same (skyhigh) for both choices of weeks. I find that using the airline websites to search for award tickets is great and lets you know what is available. Sitting on the phone with a Rep often leaves me feeling guilty about making him/her do too many searches so I give up. In the past year, I have had luck booking to desirable areas over Memorial Day, and Christmas/New Years as well. So my tips -- use the website, be flexible if possible, look at multiple routing options, and know when the 340 day reservation period opens and call that day.
KC Summers: Good tips all. But don't worry about feeling too guilty!
washingtonpost.com: Dear Sur , (Oct. 28, 2002)
Arlington, Va: Thanks for the NYC hotels info. It is very timely for me. I plugged my dates in for the places you mentioned and most of them seem to be coming in around $180-210/night for late July before taxes (which really add up). Not cheap, but not terrible, so thanks.
Now for an unrelated question. I bought a ticket on Air Canada for a flight to Montreal in the late July/early August timeframe a few months ago. But I have decided not to go for a variety of reasons. My question is, what should I do now? Should I call Air Canada and let them know I'm not going so they can sell the seat to some one else? I paid about $350 which is not an insignificant amount of money, so is there a chance to recover any of that amount? It is a non-refundable ticket of course.
Cindy Loose: Do call Air Canada. And even though the ticket is nonrefundable, you should, with a change fee, probably $100, be able to use the ticket for somewhere else. Why throw away $250? But you have to make the change before the flight--dont sure of Air Canada's rules. Some airlines say before take off, some say a day before, etc., but always some period before the plane leaves the ground.
Cindy Loose: Well, that's it for today folks. Thanks for tuning in, and see you next week,same time.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post Travel editors and writers take your questions and comments every Monday at 2 p.m. ET.
| 799.777778 | 0.833333 | 1.055556 |
high
|
medium
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600777.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600777.html
|
Fitness - Moving Crew
|
2006050919
|
The Moving Crew is here to take your questions, comments, stories and ideas about personal fitness.
Health section editor Craig Stoltz and section contributor John Briley were online Tuesday, May 9, at 11:30 a.m. ET to talk with you throughout the hour. Health assistant editor Susan Morse was unable to join the discussion.
As the Moving Crew, we specialize in helping beginners get started, regular exercisers reach the next level and everybody avoid injuries, stick with their programs and have fun.
And because the fitness world can be so intimidating to folks who are overweight and sedentary -- and since they can benefit so much from a fitness program -- we take special pride in helping them along the path to fitness.
The Moving Crew will be online to take questions every other Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. ET.
John Briley: Howdy folks. I'd love to think up something witty, sharp and useful to get us rolling today, but I used all my jokes for the week in my column and my humor muscles need time to recover.
So let's just get into it, shall we? Today's topic: Same as always - everything fitness! To the board...
Takoma Park, M: I have been doing the same weightlifting routine for a few months now. I feel like it's not doing much. I want to tone and strengthen without bulking up -- should I add weight or reps or change the routing altogether?
Mix it up: Your body acclimates to any exercise in a matter of weeks; if you are in decent shape, this process happens even faster. I recommend building a new workout around five exercises, preferably two you really hate (for me it was squats and crunches). Usually you hate stuff that your body isn't prepared for; take that as an invitation to do something new.
Do the five exercises in a row, with no rest between. That's called a "circuit." Do three or four circuits with low weight; do it every other day and increase the weight gradually. This will keep you lean and make you strong.
If you're looking for good workouts like this, Men's (and now Women's) Health magazines and Web sites have excellent fifteen-minute workouts.
Charlottesville, Va.: Is it at all bad or dangerous to have your heart going 200 beats per minute? I find that when I'm running in my very hilly neighborhood, my heart and lungs really get going, well above the 60 - 80 percent of my maximum heart rate. I'm 27, 135 pounds, female, have been running for about 6 months 20 - 25 minutes about 3x a week.
John Briley: First, Charlottesville, how are you determining that "60 to 80" percent range? The old 220-minus-your-age equation is okay but not precise, so you might not be as far out of range as you think.
Next, experts say there's nothing really wrong with cranking it way up but that you probably aren't gaining much, fitness-wise, beyond what you'd get at 85 percent. If you're training for serious athletics, spending some time in the anaerobic training zone (i.e., maxed out) can help build endurance, but that is academic for most of us. This counsel, of course, applies to people with no history or particularly noteworthy risk of heart disease.
Listen to your body: If it really really hurts at those levels back off a bit. Most of us cannot sustain the really high levels for more than 30 to 45 seconds anyway. And keep up the running, but try to balance it with strength training - you will feel better running.
Virginia: I once tried pilates videos and ended up hurting myself. I would love to take a class, but can't fit the timing into my work and commuting schedule. Would one or two private sessions be enough to help me start out with proper form? (If so, any videos in particular that you recommend?) Thank you!!
Yes, there is a Santa.... I mean, yes there is a value to taking at least a few classes with a PROPERLY TRAINED!!! instructor to get your form right, both to get the full benefit of moves and --as you found out--to avoid injury. Whether your instructor is a disciple of one of the pantheon who trained with Joseph Pilates may be less important than the care he or she shows with posture and form (yours!) when giving instruction. If that's missing, find another instructor. I've had mixed luck with videos, but 2 books I can recommend: Brooke Siler's "Your Ultimate Pilates Body Challenge" has carefully and cleverly illustrated, easy to follow instructions. There's also another title I like, not Pilates for Dummies, but something awfully like that. I've gotta go hunting for it. Ideas from others?
Tysons, Va.: I need dramatic results in three weeks through working out. I work out normally four times a week, pretty intensely. How do I up the intesity without having to stay at the gym for hours on end? I have a short attention span.
Craig Stoltz: Fight the urge, Tysons: The human wreckage left in the wake of this kind of effort is vast (who am I, T.S. Eliot?).
There is no safe/sane/legal/lasting way to lose more than 2 (okay, possibly) three pounds per week. Do not try.
Focus on the following process for the next few weeks, and decent results will follow.
Instead of steady-state cardio work (i.e., running 25 or 45 or whatever minutes at the same pace), switch immediately to intervals. Warm up for five minutes, then run (or ellipticate, row, walk, whatever) hard for 30 seconds, recover for a minute to 90 seconds. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. When you can do no more, cool down for five minuts. Over a 20-minute workout, you will jazz your metabolism, torch more calories and wake up more muscle than you ever would by just extending your workout time. Do make sure to give your muscles a rest between these workouts, however. Run easily or walk slowly until your muscles are no longer sore, then do it agian.
See my advice about circuit training for strength, above, to do something similar with the strength training portion of your workouts. But do exercises focussing on your biggest muscles (quads, hamstrings, lats, butt, shoulders), not the puny ones like biceps and calves. Build the big muscles and your are burning more than working on those little ones.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Good morning. I just moved to D.C. to Texas and am trying to figure out how to tweak my exercise routine to fit my new city. These days, instead of driving, I've been walking to and from work (about 30 minutes each way). On the weekends I've been doing a couple of intermediate/advanced yoga classes. What else should I be doing? Should I invest in some exercise DVDs and free weights? Will I have to join a gym? Thanks!
Do you get your heart rate up on those walks? If not (or 'not really') I would consider adding some slightly more challenging cardio at some point in the week, plus perhaps some strength training. Yoga can provide both, but only if you push it.
The real answer depends on your fitness goals: If you want to get in shape to play recreational sports, you should add some strength training and make sure the cardio is progressing - i.e., set time and distance goals (make it to work in 25 minutes, then 20) - versus doing teh same old thing day in and day out.
Our finicky winter weather may drive you toward a gym, but you never know around here - could be mild most of the way through Dec-Jan-Feb. If you're from Texas, the summer heat shouldn't bother you. Avail yourself of Rock Creek Park - a great resource for walks, jogs, bike rides, etc. Portions of the roads are closed on weekends and holidays and many, many people come out to play in nice weather.
Home exercise gear is fine, but you have to use it! If you are the self-motivating type, by all means go for it. Drop back occasionally with more specific questions.
Washington, D.C.: I just wanted to say thanks for your recent column about your week and when/how you did (or weren't able to) fit in workouts. It's so nice to hear that someone else's 'real life' gets in the way of fitness sometimes. I feel less guilty now, but I am glad I went for a walk this morning before the day got crazy.
John Briley: You're most welcome. It's crazy out there, so we all have to do what we can, and not abuse ourselevs for succumbing to the demands of real life! That early-in-the-day workout is one great strategy for knocking it out before the schedule gets overloaded!
22314: Okay, I'll bite. Thanks for giving us a typical week of exercising. Here's mine:
Tues: 6-mile run, 30 min. upper-body weights
Wed: Track workout (e.g. 16 X 400 w/100-meter jog to recover)
Sun: 4-5 mile run, upper-body weights
Craig Stoltz: Hey, thanks, Oakton (I'm just guessing. Arlington?). This is a very smart program to support competitive running (which I suspect is the goal here? Crew members: Note the devotion of time to the speed work (Weds) and the two weight sessions. Absolutely vital for folks training for performance. The days when trainers thought the best way to train for a run was do just keep doing the run you compete is are long past.
washingtonpost.com: When Reality Intrudes on Good Intentions (Post, May 9)
Arlington, Va.: In February, I sprained my ankle pretty badly after slipping of the step in step class (this if after spraining in back in December as well!). So, I went to physical therapy knowing that I needed to strengthen it. I gradually got back into my normal gym routine, except for running (when I did it in Feb., I was 2 weeks away from a 1/2 marathon and was running quite a bit). Now, even though I've been cleared by the physical therapist and try to do the band excercises when I can, I am still having a hard time running. I do everything else - spin, step, kickbox, yoga, etc, but running still causes me some distress in my ankle. Suggestions? (I have been trying to run again because I am running the Lawyer's Have Heart 10K in June). Thanks!
Craig Stoltz: My suggestion is to make your donation to Lawyers Have Heart and volunteer to work the tents or as a route guard. A sprain is a terrible thing to waste (so to speak). Each sprain, even with proper rehab, increases the chance of indentical reinjury. It can take years of diligent effort to build strong muscles and connective tissue to protect a sprained ankle sufficiently.
Running when it hurts also violates Briley's First Law of Exercise: If it hurts, cut it out. (Stoltz Corrolary: Particuarly if it's a joint.)
Fairfax, Va.: I'm recovering from a fractured wrist sustained in a fall in Feb. Now I find it difficult to get back to exercising because (1) the wrist is still stiff and not yet strong enough to hold my weight (in push-ups, say) and (2) I'm afraid of falling again and re-hurting myself. Any advice for getting back into exercising? BTW -- I'm in my mid-50s. Thanks!
I'm sporting one of those myself--mine earned in a bicycle collision a few years back with a cyclist who didn't watch where she was going. Boy, do I know what you mean about the psychological part of getting back to it. The next several times I got on the trail, I can't tell you how much I shouted "Heads up! Keep to your lane" at oncoming cyclists. As to the physical part, get thee to a physical therapist, if you haven't done so already. You might also talk to your orthopedist about whether a strap-on wrist brace might offer some more protection (and confidence) over the next few months. I'd think that should do the trick. Good luck!
Philadelphia, Pa.: Hi, I just found your chat and it's great. I haven't finished catching up on transcripts so if you could direct me to where this has been answered before I'd be very appreciative.
I'd like to start exercising. Everyday I walk 20 minutes to and from work (3 miles altogether). Now I would like to lose weight, but I think my body is used to this level of activity, what can I do next? I'd prefer something that is cheap/free (I do have exercise episodes On Demand though, is there a certain type that is preferable?) to get started on fitness/weight loss. I'm early twenties and the high end of average, I'd like to get fit and on the average end of average weight. Thanks for any suggestions!
Craig Stoltz: Hey, congrats on the life change, Philly. You've already done the hard part: everything else is fine tuning.
1. With your walk, when on your way home (and you can afford to get sweaty), mix periods of hard walking and periods of recovery. Use phone poles or houses to measure (i.e., I'll go hard until I pass that yellow house); that's what the Europeans, those cads, call "fartlek" training. This will gin up your cardio fitness and incinerate a few more 3 Musketeers.
2. I've explored the Comcast On Demand videos, and they are no worse than most you'd pluck off the shelf. Find one you think is fun, and try to find "body pump" or "body sculpt" or "cardio blast" or some other form that keeps you moving and your heart a-thumpin'. It'll build strength but also gin up your calorie burn.
For other video advice: collagevideo.com
Washington, D.C.: I am 24 years old, a little overweight and am really struggling to stick to my exercise routine. I can go a few days in a row and get a good workout (alternating 25 minutes on an elliptical (I have bad knees, so I found this to be a great alternative) and weights and 45 minutes on the elliptical), but then get busy with work and life and go a couple days without working out. I know that unless I stay consistent with my workout and diet (work makes it SO difficult!!), I'm never going to achieve my weightloss goal (10 lbs by July). Do you have any suggestions on how to stay motivated and on track? Thanks, I really appreciate any help you can give me!
John Briley: Hi D.C. - First off, you ARE staying on track, simply by having a workout plan and more or less sticking to it. See today's Moving Crew column (re-posted above) for reiteration that life gets in the way for all of us, even fitness columnists. Your main goal should be steady adherence to broad goals, not daily disappointment if you miss a workout.
So: Do your best to get four or more days of good cardio (and those 25-minute elliptical sessions count, as long as you push yourself, breath hard and sweat) plus a couple days of strength training - and, as you already do, you can do both on teh same day. Watch what you eat (check in with the Lean Plate Club chat today at 1 p.m. for more detailed advice there). Try to run a daily caloric deficit of 200 to 300 calories - i.e., expend more calories than you consume - BUT do not get discouraged if you slip on a couple days a week. Try tracking it over the course of the whole week, or even two, and see how you're doing.
Walk more than you drive, take the stairs, dance while you cook (spatulas make great microphones!), do crunches while you watch TV, eat smaller portions, stay happy and enjoy your young life!
You might lose 10 pounds by July - or maybe you'll lose 6 or 7 - but if you kill yourself to do it, I can almost assure you the pounds will come marching back as soon as the goal is past. Better to tweak your lifestyle just a little, stay active and feel the improvements over time. If you feel good about yourself and how you are doing, you are more likely to maintain that lifestyle.
Hope that helps. Stay in touch!
Arlington, Va.: I loved the piece comparing intentions to reality! One thing I have really tried doing recently is being more MENTALLY flexible-- if I end up beating myself up over missing my intended workout, I'll end up doing nothing except moping around, whereas if I'm flexible, I might end up doing something else for even 15-20 minutes that will keep me feeling good. Part of this has included listening to my body more-- as a runner, it's harder to say "I'm not going to do my long run today because my legs are weak, I haven't gotten enough sleep, and I need a break, so I'll cycle instead" than "I'm going to make myself run because it's on my schedule!" Either way, your piece is helpful to both the super-motivated and the super-busy. Thanks!
Craig Stoltz: Testify, Sister [or Brother]!
Reston, Va.: In June I will have baby duty in the morning (9-11) while my wife works. Unfort this time will replace my usual racquetball and weight lifting workout.
Are there any creative ways to get a work out with an 8 month old in tow. I can only think of bicycling with him so far.
Craig Stoltz: I turn this over to the crowd. Back during the Civil War, when my kids were babies, we didn't have the big-wheel, off-road strollers I see now that are accommodating to a good pace. When I see moms and dads walking hard with the baby in one of those, I think that's a pretty good way to get moving when with child, so to speak.
Washington, D.C.: So...I've been trying to shape up and lose a few lbs but I feel like I'm not seeing any results! My workout schedule includes three spin classes, one running session, and two yoga classes a week. What am I doing wrong?!?
Craig Stoltz: Yoga is superb exercise, but it doesn't burn many calories (this per a recent study you'll find cited at www.acefitness.com)
My guess is your body has acclimated to the spinning classes, or you're not pushing yourself hard enough. You might want to get a heart-rate monitor to make sure you're moving your heart into and through your cardio training zone no matter what exercise you're doing.
If all else fails, just trying different classes--you can often startle your body off a plateau just by throwing it a curve ball.
Bellingham, Wash.: Hey all! Well I pulled it off! Ran my first 1/2 marathon in Vancouver BC this weekend. After over-training in March and slowly coming back from a pulled hamstring, pulled quad and shin splints I had to move slow, but I ran all the way, averaged better than 10 minute miles, had a kick left for the last two miles (sprinted the last 1/2 mile, what can I say, the route was lined with cheering Canadians), felt great afterwards (We walked the 2 miles back to the Silvia), had a blast, and even feel good enough today to go for a run after work tonight. The only goal not met was beating 2 hours, I came in around 2:04. (not bad considering it was like 45 degrees and rainy). If I can do it at 46 heck, anyone can!So my question is where to go from here? I want to run the Portland OR full marathon this Oct 1, thats 20 weeks from next Sunday. Any advice on training for the next level, reasonable goals to set and staying healthy before during and after would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
John Briley: Way to go Bellingham! Well done. There are many guides out there for marathon training. Jeff Galloway is one expert whose books are well-regarded; Chi Running by Danny Dreyer is another good running guide (not marathon speicifc, though).
See those or similar books (or visit runnersworld.com) for specific mileage goals. What I can tell you: Keep up the strength training and the flexibility training - lower body and core especially - as you train to help avoid injury. You don't need to bulk out, but you do want the quad, calf, butt, ab, oblique and back muscles to be there when you need them for the long run.
Eat well (wholesome, fresh foods, 50% carbs, 20% protein, 30% 'good' fat), get enough sleep, stay hydrated and be reasonable with yourself during training - some days may feel sluggish, and that is OK.
Otherwise, best of luck and keep us posted. Congtrats again on the 1/2 marathon!
Ellicott City, Md.: This is a little late, but a column you wrote last year was the best fitness advice I ever read. It's the one where you recommended resting for at least three minutes in between sets of weight lifting.
I'm a DDR addict and I lost more than 50 pounds playing DDR, but I needed to improve my strength. I don't belong to a gym and workout videos just didn't cut it; they moved too fsst and took too long. After reading your article, I tried doing two sets of 12 with the heaviest weight I could lift, with a 3 minute rest in between, during which I would play a DDR song. The results were incredible! For example, I started out doing shoulder presses with 8# dumbbells and within just a few workouts I was using 15#, and now I'm up to 22#.
I'm a 43 y.o. female and I thought it was going to be all downhill when it comes to strength, but I've never been stronger in my life, and I've kept the weight off for more than a year. Sorry this is so long, but I just wanted to say thank you very much, and keep on revealing those fitness secrets!
John Briley: Thank YOU E.C.! Always nice to hear from people we are helping. Keep up the good work.
Living Large: Hi Crewsters - -
I am a personal trainer who just finished reading an excellent memoir called "Living Large : A Big Man's Ideas on Weight, Success, and Acceptance" by Michael S. Berman and Laurence Shames.
This is a well-written book on one man's literal ups and downs (on the scale) as he lived with being large throughout his life, trying out new diets as the research made so-called breakthroughs. The wisdom he imparts for other large people, especially in the section when he figures out to stick with keeping off weight healthfully, is great, accurate and succinctly put.
He is also a D.C. man who has worked on every presidential campaign since the 1960s, so it was doubly interesting to read for me.
This is a great citation--I haven't read the book but have heard good things about it. The whole world of exercise needs to understand bigger folks rather than just trying to bully or shame them into becoming smaller folks. This book makes strides in that direction.
Chicago, Ill.: Thanks for the article about good intentions -- I had been very rigorous in my workout schedule (to lose weight) for about a year (5-6 days a week, 45-60 min per session on treadmill and/or weights). Once I got close to my target weight, I modified my routine to about 4 days a week (5 when I have time), and increasing the weights and cutting back a bit on the treadmill. I have found that it's easier to "slack off" now -- but don't feel guilty about it, and try to savor a day of rest. I just remind myself how good I feel when I do exercise so that I don't let one day off keep turning into another, and another, and another.
One more thing - re discussions/questions about good sports bras for big-busted women. I have had great luck with a model from Lunaire (www.prettier.com is their website) -- very good support with a light underwire (which I actually remove eventually, for more comfort but equal support). THey have a store locator on the website because the brand doesn't seem to be very widely available (some Nordstrom and Dillard's stores seem to stock it).
John Briley: Another vote for realism! And more sports bra advice - thanks Chicago!
Baltimore, Md.: I don't lift weights or use weight machines, and I never will. I know about the importance of strength training, but it is so unbelievably freaking boring to me that there is no point in kidding myself that I will ever stick to it. I do however, try to do yoga at least three times a week. Is yoga a good substitute for weights? If it matters, I do power yoga, as opposed to the more meditative and slow versions.
You mean, does supporting the bulk of your body's weight on your arms, as you do in the plank position, or on just one arm, as you do in the side plank, or on your arms and legs together, as you do in the wheel, require strength and build strength and endurance if you keep at it-- just the way lifting weights does? Darn right it does. I say, keep that good habit!
Power yoga is a more vigorous form that concentrates on building stamina. Just watch out that you don't sacrifice form when doing demanding poses more quickly or you could invite injury.
Rockville, Md.: For a change of pace, I tried bikram yoga (I usually do a flow-variety) and once I rehydrated and cooled off, I found myself slightly hooked. Is this a good thing to keep up with? Also, does it burn more calories than regular yoga? I couldn't find it on caloriesperhour.com. Thanks!
Craig Stoltz: Short answer, I don't know.
Long answer: Calorie burn is not a function of ambient temperature; it is affected by the amount of work you do.
Bikram's (hot room) yoga will sweat off pounds (worthless; you need to replenish with an equal amount of fluid immediately) and permits longer, deeper stretches, but it does not increase the amount of work you do.
Do Bikram's for how it feels, not for how much it burns (calories, I mean). Aside from people who were in bad shape who made a bad decision to take Bikram's, I've heard of no health issues associated with it.
Washington, D.C.: Re. shaking up the workout: I'm really trying to up my stamina while running. Is it enough of a switch that I am increasing either my time or my speed week by week? I also do some other cardio after the run, which I vary day by day. My goals right now are running-related, but I don't want the weight loss benefit to decrease at the same time. Thanks for your help!
John Briley: One sure way to boost stamina is *hard* interval training. Why? By pushing your heart and muscles (again, provided you have no elevated risk of cardiac disease) you increase oxygen uptake capacity, meaning your whole system gets more efficient at bringing needed oxygen to your muscles. So when you do the long runs, your body expends less energy throughout the run and you feel stronger.
So keep doing what you're doing BUT add in one or two days of interval training per week (intervals are sprints, if you didn't know). Start with six 20-second sprints, each followed by a minute of recovery. Once that gets easy (or manageable), make them 30 seconds. Then try 8 of them. Then 45 seconds. Then 10...
If you really push these - and I mean SPRINT - this will help boost your fitness and endurance, and keep your weight loss on track.
Houston, Tex.: My husband participates in group exercise at the local gym. It's a high intensity work-out. During a recent class, the instructor was pushing them quite a bit, so much so that one of the other participants threw up. This concerned me about the safety of the class. My husband said throwing up occasionally during strenuous exercise is normal and not to worry. What do you think of this? Sorry about the graphic question, but I am truly concerned.
Craig Stoltz: No apologizes for talking about puking, Houston.
As usual (repeated pattern here) the guys are wrong. Some dumb football coach (or military trainer) with a brain like a hammer probably told your husband it's normal to throw up. It's not. It's your body saying, in vivid body-speak you'd have to be a moron to ignore, "This is bad for me, cut it out now, you ignoramous."
No reponsible coach, exercise leader or fitness professional would encourage this excessive work. Tell him to find another teacher. And if he has any problems with this, talk to Briley.
Burke, Va.: I've been trying to get into shape using a reward model. I love to shop so of course, the reward/punishment is money based. I can't shop with anything but the money I earn by exercising. I'm going to "pay" myself $5 for every day that I exercise 30 minutes or more. For the days that I miss, I not only not pay myself but dock my money by $5. After 5 weeks, I've missed three days. But I will say that there have been times where my intent was to get on the treadmill for some cardio and reality ended up being gentle yoga for 30 min. But, I keep trucking on for my shopping money.
Craig Stoltz: Hey, that's a great idea, Burke. That takes discipline. Anybody else try stuff like this?
Midwest: A couple weeks ago in your chat, I believe, there was a passing reference to Galloway. I got on Amazon and looked him up, and bought the book, "Marathon: You Can Do it!" There is a marathon in my small city that happens to be held in exactly 26 weeks from when I started the program. Perfect!
I am about a woman, about 50 lbs. overweight, and really motivated. But after two weeks and having to run a minute than walk a minute (not being able to handle more than that), I think he's insane! I certainly can't do the long runs - 3 miles, 4 miles. It would take up my entire morning! I am gaining in endurance, I know that, and I'm getting out there everyday. But now I think I'll focus on the "Couch to 5K" program; maybe next year, I'll be able to do that marathon. Any thoughts?
Craig Stoltz: Yes, yes, yes, Midwest: You're doing the right thing. Trying to force yourself toward marathonhood so quickly --unless your body turns out to be very cooperative--is a mistake.
Couch to 5K is a far better first goal. Then 5K to 10K. Then you can start looking at a marathon--you'll also be carrying around much less weight, which will make running easier.
Congrats on coming to this realization so quickly. It's not a failure--it's a very important success.
22314 (Alexandria): I'm the one who gave a typical exercise week above. When I'm training for specific races, such as a marathon or half-marathon, I raise my mileage to 40-50 miles/week. Then I take a much-needed two-week break.
For the half-marathoner who wants to run the full marathon. First - congratulations! Second, you have plenty of time to train for the Portland Marathon. I highly recommend the book, Competitive Runner's Handbook, by New York Road Runners coach Bob Glover.
Craig Stoltz: Thanks again, postal district. . .
Bethesda, Md.: I'm going to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Piccu in Peru in about two weeks, and eek! I haven't been keeping up with the workouts I'd planned. Any advice for a jumpstart before I go? I'm in my early 20's & got lucky with my metabolism so I'm slim, but rarely exercise.
Craig Stoltz: Not much you can accomplish in a couple of weeks, alas.
If it were me, I'd walk a few miles each day, and add some intervals (is that my answer for everything? Yeesh).
Two times between now and then I'd do climbs of, say, Sugarloaf Mountain (in Md.) or Old Rag (in Va)--something that will prepare your muscles, tendons, joints, etc. for hiking uneven terrain.
Arlington, Va.: You hear about actors working out 5-6 hours at the gym to get ready for buffed-up roles. What the heck are they doing for so long?
And another question: What's the current thinking on how long it takes to get back in shape after gotten completely out of shape? Once upon a time there I vaguely remember there was an idea that "muscle memory" helped you see progress faster (but maybe that was if you skipped workouts for a couple months, not a couple years).
John Briley: Well, if you have to fix your hair after every rep you do, a gym visit can take hours! How long you spend bulking up depends a lot on your body type: If you are stocky by design, the muscle definition will come more easily than for naturally lean people. So a guy like Bob Dylan might need 6 hours a day in the gym if, say, he wanted to play Sylvester Stalone in a movie (hey, it's Hollywood - anything can happen). Seriously, your muscles need time to recover so anything beyond two hours a day is highly excessive.
Re how long it takes to get back in shape: If you've been out of the game for a couple years, expect to take around 12 weeks to gain real form (this of course depends on your goals). Depending on your age and what kind of shape you were in before, your body might adjust more quickly to a routine.
Just be patient with yourself - please. Many people who remember what it was like to be in shape try to rush back, invariably causing injury and further setbacks.
Washington, D.C.: Can biking uphill build big thigh muscles? Here's my quandry: For about three years, I ran 3 miles 3 times a week, about 40 percent of each run being uphill. Fine. Then about 8 months ago I made a job change which didn't allow me as much time to run outside (especially in the dark winter months), but I was able to switch to riding my bike to and from work every day. The route is just over 2.5 miles each way: about 30% uphill on the way there, about 50% uphill on the way back. And I do this everyday.
Here's the thing: my thighs have gotten huge. I still weigh in with the same number of pounds I was before yet skirts, capri pants, and jeans that used to fit well literally stretch so badly across my thighs that I have had to buy new clothes. (Waist size remains the same). At first I just thought I was gaining weight and it was all going to thighs/rear end, but (and sorry --- this may be too much information!) I don't have an increased "jiggle factor."
All this indicates I am gaining muscle...and yet it's hard to believe such short bike rides could accomplish that. What do you think? Is this the result of the bike riding? And how do I stop it? Ride in a different gear? Try to avoid hills? I know I should be happy about gaining muscle, but in my mind bulk is bulk. I don't want it.
John Briley: Yes, it could be the riding, especially if you are inclined to push it (and it sounds like you are). Try lower gears and occasionally standing in the pedals (vs. stayoing on the saddle), though I'm not sure that will solve your issue. In fact, I'm not quite sure what would, other than using your legs less. Maybe walk to work a couple days, which employs more hip flexors and calf muscles?
I hate being stumped like this, so email me at move@washpost.com and i will look into this one.
Washington, D.C.: I have been running for years and as a consequence I have extremely tight hamstrings. I've also had minor lower and mid back pain for years. I always assumed this was due to an extremely minor sports injury in high school (15 years ago), but recently someone told me that tight hamstrings mean that the back is doing more work than it should. I've starting doing pilates and can't take traditional yoga (it hurts way too much and I can barely get a stretch in). Are there ways to loosen the hamstrings and take some pressure off my back?
Yes, runners get banjo-string hamstrings, and they really need to work on them. They also need core strength to make sure they don't get. . .precisely what you have in your back. I'm no doctor, of course, but I'm guessing your current state of affairs is more a result of unbalanced fitness training than it is an old injury.
www.runnersworld.com: It has a core fitness training program for runners that can change your life.
For your hammies, here's my favorite. Feet on floor, reach down in front of your feet (probably about 12 to 24 inches, if you're as tight as you say) until your palms are on the floor too. Now walk your hands out, one at a time, until you're nearly in pushup position. Now take funny little "ankle steps" forward with your feet (clumpy steps) until they are close to your hands. You'll feel alarms in your hamstrings and back. Don't push it! Now walk your hands out again, and repeat. This time, though, when your hands and feet are close together, walk your feet back until you're nearly horizontal, then let your hands follow.
This is called the inchworm. Do this a three or four times a week after runs and you'll make great progress is lengthening, and strengthening, your hamstrings and related tissue.
For your back: If nothing else, do the plank (look it up on the web anywhere, or menshealth.com or exrx.net). One core exercise that nails many core muscles in one swoop.
re: yoga for strength: I also prefer power yoga to weight lifting for my strength training. I find that the classes/videos I do put much more emphasis on lower body work to upper body. Do you know of a yoga type or just some poses that are good for upper body strengthening? Or is it just better to just force myself to do some some pushups/band work once a week?
Susan Morse: Well, let's see. Besides the aforesaid plank, side plant, and wheel, there's the cobra (where you lay down, face to the groun, then raise yourself on your arms, back arched) that works your arms and lower back, and the crow pose (where you slowly tip over onto your arms, knees above your elbows, until your whole body is balanced on your arms. Now that's strength.) More power to you! (And the bands work too!)
I often take cardio classes that have 20 minutes of conditioning at the end. We use stability balls, bands, and tubes to work arms and legs.
Afterwards though my arms and legs don't feel as "worked out" as they do when I use free weights or nautilus machines. If my muscles aren't slighly achy after working them, does that mean I have not been pushing myself hard enough?
Yes, if your muscles don't tingle the next day--that "good" soreness you feel after a vigorous workout--you are not taxing your muscles enough. You are certainly getting other benefits from the exercises at the end: flexibility, balance, stretching, plus ingraining a new set of muscle memories. All good.
Just don't expect that work to build your strength or muscle volume.
Alexandria, Va.: You'll probably tell me to see a doctor, but I'm just curious... Last night I was atoning for a few missed days at the gym, and hit the elliptical pretty vigorously for 15 minutes (before an hour strength-training class). About halfway through the class, I got pretty dizzy. Not enough to fall over, but enough to have to pause what I was doing. It mostly went away, though I got a bit dizzy again at home in the shower and also when I went to bed. Could my vigorous elliptical session have caused this? I have never gotten that sort of dizzy from a workout before. And I was fairly well hydrated. What can cause this? Thanks.
John Briley: Inadequate fuel and/or sleep might account for it. Did you eat and sleep enough in the prior couple days? I don't think the elliptical session on its own could do that. Also, did you ease into the workout or blaze right into a sprint when you hit the machine? Rushing into a workout can cause a variety of biological imbalances due to the sudden dmeands and might have caused it.
And, of course, you were right: Please mention this to your doc. If it was a one-time event, you are *probably* okay, but it is *not* our place to make that diagnosis.
Washington, D.C.: You mentioned in the last discussion that you should feel sore after each workout (did I read this right?) Is that true? I had a trainer set me up on a program, which I now do on my own, but I'm NEVER sore after a workout. What should be the indicator during a workout if it's "enough"?
You did indeed read that right. The soreness comes from minute tears in the muscle fibers that occur when muscles are worked hard enough. The healing of those tiny tears is what makes muscles stronger.
How long ago was it that the trainer got you set up? Might be time to move the weight up a notch--or shake the program up a bit--to keep you challenged and fight boredom. And yeah, a little soreness is a good thing.
Ask that trainer for suggestions. You might even be able to do that without paying for another session :)!
Los Angeles, Calif.: You had a column a few weeks back about using an elliptical "properly." When you said to push through your heels -- what does that mean? Don't let your heels come up off the pedal things? I'm trying!!
washingtonpost.com: All That Sweat Is No Elliptical Illusion (Post, April 18)
John Briley: We (and I speak from experience here) have a tendency to ride on the balls of our feet on those machines - the handles and display are in front of us so I think we naturally lean forward. 'Pressing through your heels' means to feel the pressure of each stroke in your heels, at least partially, not in the front of your foot.
It feels weird at first and you will probably revert to old form a few times before you make the proper form your habit. And don't obsess over it - just try to do it right, REALLY try to avoid bouncing up and down on each stroke, and get a good sweat going. Oh, and have fun too!
Bikram yoga: is aerobic. My heart rate goes waaay up when I do bikram, but not doing the other forms of yoga.
Susan Morse: Thanks for your comment!
Burke, Va.: Hey 'Moving Crew'!
How would one go about having their maximum oxygen uptake (Max V02)meaured? Is it expensive? Where can it be done?
John Briley: Many cardiologists offer this - or they refer you offsite for what's often called a 'stress test'. Just make sure they know precisely what you're after before you go in.
The test: Electrodes attached to various places on your body as you chug away on a treadmill and they boost incline and speed to measure your cardio response - i.e., see how hard you're working to keep up with teh increasing demand. It is not invasive or uncomfortable, though you will breath hard and sweat a bit.
Arlington, Va.: I started a workout routine three months ago having never really been dedicated to a gym. I do 30 minutes of cardio and 15 minutes of weights 4-5 times a week. I've also tried to improve my diet. However, I have yet to see any results. Any advice?
Craig Stoltz: First, congrats: With the amount you're doing, lack of physical results notwithstanding, you are gaining most of the health benefits exercise can offer. You've made the toughest move already.
The two most common possibilities for the no-results problem are:
1. You're not working hard enough. After you're begun a program, prepared your joints and wetware for strenuous movement, you should step the intensity up until (with weights) your last reps are *very* difficult (yet in perfect form) and (with cardio) by making sure your heart goes into your cardio training zone (60 to 80 percent of your age-adjusted maximum, which is 220 minus your age).
2. Your body is used to your workout and has found ways to loaf while you're doing it. Solution: New workout.
New England: Really liked the column this week. It gave me a new life rule based on my TV-watching rule ("I will not turn down having real-life experience in order to watch someone else having a TV life.")
"I will not turn down a fun, less-physical activity in order to get in a harder workout at the gym."
This means that, for example, if it's a nice day, I'm going to take the dog for a long walk or hike rather than hit the treadmill to kick my butt into shape. I'm no competitive athlete, so it's all about quality of life.
Susan Morse: Another vote for reality! Nothing wrong with opting for the pouch walk on a get-yourself-outdoors day. Nothing wrong at all. Come to think of it, I have a dog I need to go walk now. See ya.....
Bowie, Md.: I had stomach surgery a year ago and am not supposed to do crunches, situps etc. I try to run a couple of times a week for 25 minutes, and lift light weights in curls, but what can I do to at least keep the core strong if not hard?
Craig Stoltz: Oddly enough, I recommend balance exercises. Stand one-legged and wag your free leg around. Try to hinge down like a stork, one leg vertical, your back and other leg horizontal. Do one-legged toe raises. Toss a medicine ball back and forth standing on one foot.
Balance challenges like that engage your core muscles without targeting them directly. It's a start, as you continue to heal and rehab.
I'm a 24 year old female and about 30 pounds overweight.
I recently joined a gym that I love and have been attending
group classes five days a week and I'm really getting into
Will I lose my extra padding if I focus just on the
conditioning, or must I throw cardio in there too? I hate
running and spinning with a burning passion.
Craig Stoltz: Hate away, Washington, hate away.
Get thee a heart-rate monitor, or just wear a watch to get your heart rate yourself. If your classes get your heart rate up to 60 to 80 percent of your age-adjusted maximum (220 minus your age) you're getting all the cardio you need.
Help!: I have to run a 5K on Friday and I haven't run in months. I also have exercise-induced asthma and allergies (at least I have the allergies sort of under control). What can I do to prepare and not make a fool of myself?
John Briley: THIS Friday?!? Hmmmm. Go to gym today. Do some leg exercises - focus on quads and calfs BUT DO NOT OVER DO IT - and some core work.
Go to gym tomorrow. Do elliptical workout I described a few weeks ago(column is re-posted above).
Rest on Thursday - i.e., do nothing strenuous, especially with your legs.
Hydrate, eat and sleep well.
Run on Friday, but do so at a measured pace. Do not really start to push it until the last K. That way you will finish without conking. And stay calm. You will make it, just don't expect to dust the field.
Silver Spring, Md.: re: throwing up.
I've felt like throwing up in aerobics before. Nobody else around me was throwing up so I attribute it to myself, and not the instructor.
You have to know your own pace.
You also want to check that you were properly hydrated prior to class. Most often when I feel sick to my stomach during exercise I have arrived with a cup of coffee as my only liquid in the last hour. Drink several glasses of water in the hour before working out to remedy this problem.
Craig Stoltz: excellent observations, Silver Spring. Caffeine was also shown in a recent study to actually reduce the muscular benefits of strength work, not increase it.
Arlington, Va.: Does spinning harm your hips? I've been spinning regularly for two years and am noticing a tightening around my right hip. What can I do to prevent that?
Craig Stoltz: Have your teacher check your seat adjustment. Many people rock back and forth slightly on a bike because their seats are too high.
Do make sure you do stretching after your classes. Like runners, people who pedal a lot find their muscles that don't get worked hard on the bike shorten and tighten.
Transplant again: This is the Texas transplant again. How much high intensity cardio should I add? I don't really get my heart rate up on my walks because I don't want to get too sweaty in my work clothes. The yoga seems to push my heart rate up and I am generally slightly sore the next day.
John Briley: Well, gov't recommends 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five or more days a week. Maybe crank up your pace on the way home, when sweat matters less. Or (as I see many people do) wear casual clothes for the walk commute then change when you get in (might require keeping clothes at work or other creative measure).
Don't get me wrong - the walk is great and is more than a lot of people get. But since you asked, there are ways to boost your benefit. Can you leave work early a coupel days a week to get an extended walk/light jog? Now is the time of year to establish the habit, with the weather and daylight on our side.
And yes, the yoga can count as two of those 5 days, as long as you really do get the heart going.
Burke, Va.: I'm a marathoner, and after finishing Marine Corps this fall and taking a break, I promptly gained 15 pounds. So I've begun training for another marathon to try and take off the weight, but its not working. I'm guessing my body is just acclimated to running? What can I do that would kick start some weight loss? Should I throw in some cross-training? I typically do speed workouts twice a week and lift twice a week.
John Briley: By 'not working' do you mean, 'I started running again two weeks ago and I'm still fat'?
Also, I might wager that you adjusted your diet back in the last round of training - your body needs more fuel when training - and never dialed it back down when you quit?
The body does adjust a bit, but not to the extent that it would explain your issue.
So re-tool the diet (try to burn 200 to 300 moire calories per day than you consume), keep up the training, be patient. You'll get there.
Arlington, Va. : I need a goal to work towards and I'm thinking about doing a sprint triathlon in the late summer or early fall. Can you recommend one that would be appropriate for a beginner?
John Briley: Hmmm. There's one in Dewey Beach in the fall (http://www.deweybeachtriathlon.com/). I would throw this out to the group but we are about out of time. Good luck!
Baltimore, Md.: Morning, Crew! My question is about intervals. When I'm on the treadmill, I often run slow (6.5mph) for 3 minutes, then faster for 2 (7.5 mph), and repeat as many times as I can. Does that count as an interval workout? Do the times have to be shorter than 2/3 minutes, or the change in intensity greater, or what? Thanks!!
Craig Stoltz: Yes, you're doing god's work, Baltimore.
But you can do shorter intervals at greater intensity, to great benefit. For me, at 7.5 mph I'm just about at full-out speed capacity. I do that for 30 seconds, then recover with a mild jog or walk for 60.
It's actually very beneficial--perhaps more, but I do not know the research in detail--to let your heart recover more rather than less between sprints. I use a HRM, and I discipline myself not to sprint again until my HR is down to 125 (from 150ish after a sprint). I often feel like I can start a sprint again at 135 or so, but (I'm told, I believe) that bringing your HR down further and up again actually improves cardio efficiency more than just keeping it in a higher but narrow range.
(Any fitness pros out there know this enough to verify, refute? Drop e-mail to move@washpost.com with thoughts, much appreciated.)
So: Mix in shorter, more intense bursts to jazz things up.
Washington, D.C.: Hi - Loved your article on proper elliptical form and cringe at gym when I see people bouncing all over the place on their tippy toes on the machine! Is there any benefit, though, to pedaling backwards on the elliptical? Or is it most effective to pedal forwards?
washingtonpost.com: All That Sweat Is No Elliptical Illusion (Post, April 18)
John Briley: Both directions are good. Works different muscles. Good call!
Takoma Park, Md.: Thanks for taking my question. I wrote in about a month ago -- 47-year-old woman about 35-40 pounds overweight and just started jazzercise classes 3 days a week with a sore achilles tendon. Well, I've kept up with the classes, got some decent workout shoes and my tendon does not bother me nearly as much as it used to. I'm just starting to feel my stamina building up after a month, and am less sore all the time, and would like to incorporate another exercise. The rec center where I take the classes will be offering a yoga class one day a week starting in June. That would up my exercise to 4 days a week. I've always been interested in taking yoga but don't know if that would be a good enough workout? My immediate goal is to feel better and less tired, but ultimately to lose weight. Thanks!
John Briley: Yoga is a great add to any fitness routine, if you have time for it. It is NOT a proven weight loser for most of us (it can be but you really have to push it AND be in a class that allows that pace).
Have you considered strength training? It does burn calories but the real benefit is in making you stronger so you have more energy and conditioning for jazzercise or whatever else you want to do.
Really a matter of preference. I love yoga and bet you would too. Just don't view it as a great fat burner.
John Briley: Time flies, huh? Another lively session and for that we thank you all. Enjoy your week, and the next one too, and join us again May 23 for more fun.
washingtonpost.com: Join Sally Squires and the Lean Plate Club to discuss nutrition and healthy eating, Tuesday, May 9, at 1 p.m. ET.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
The Moving Crew is here to take your questions, comments, stories and ideas about personal fitness.
| 606.894737 | 1 | 19 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050800939.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050800939.html
|
Catching Up With ...
|
2006050919
|
"I am strong, I am invincible, I am woman."
Listen to I Am Woman
Those words from Helen Reddy's 1972 self-penned number one international hit became a popular refrain and anthem for feminism in the 1970's. But just as she became the first Australian to win a Grammy Award for Best Female Vocalist tragedy struck.
"I had given birth, had three number one hit records and my own television series, lost both parents, my aunt and my closest friend, and faced death myself," writes Reddy in "The Woman I Am," a memoir.
Reddy was online Tuedsay, May 8, at Noon ET in a special "Catching Up With" discussion to talk about her life and career, her memoir and the release of "The Definitive Collection," a retrospective of her recording career.
Harrisburg, Pa.: I look forward to reading your book. I am unfamiliar with your own health crisis. What was it, if I may ask, and what obstacles did it place in your life? I hope you are fine now and I wish you all the best of good health.
Helen Reddy: I have Addison's Disease and there is no cure but it is manageable. I take Cortisone everyday and have for about 30 years now. So it is much the same as a diabetic needing insulin: there is no cure but you can lead a relatively normal life.
It's a failure of the adrenal glands, adrenal insufficiency. And I had a kidney removed when I was 17 and they took the adrenal gland as well. The one I had left during a period of great stress in my life. In other words, I only had one left and then later on at a period of stress in my life which would've been around 1973 ... both my parents died .. I call it in the book.
I'm diagnosed for two years so my condition worsened and I was in total exhaustion.
Washington, D.C.: Did I hear you say on the Today show that you're finished with performing? If so, why? Would you please explain. You're terrific, we miss you.
Helen Reddy: I had been performing since I was five years old. I quit at the age of 60. I did it for 55 years. So isn't that long enough? There are other things that I wanted to do with my life which I'm doing such as ... I am now a clinical hypnotherapist and I'm enjoying living a much quieter life. It was enough. How many people want to do the same things more than 55 years?
I haven't exactly retired from life. I still speak, I still write. I'm just not singing anymore. I'm not in the entertainment business anymore.
Centreville, Va.: I am curious about your last name -- Reddy; it is a common last name in southern part of India. Does your father, Max, have any ancestors in India?
Helen Reddy: I have done some research on my father's side; most of my research has been done on my mother's side. His father was born in Ireland but his great grandfather served with an Irish regiment stationed in India so it is possible that I have Indian ancestry. But it has not yet been established.
Annandale, Va.: Please tell us about your work in hypnotherapy and your experience with past-life research.
Helen Reddy: I think I answered this question full in the book.
I had an out-of-body experience at the age of 11. That was the beginning of my interest and I space does not permit here but your question would be fully answered in my book. The book, The Woman I Am, is out in stores now.
North Canton, Ohio: In reading your book it is clear that you are spiritually content and have a great love for your family and friends. You have found that the greatest wealth you have are the experiences life has given you, both good and bad. Was there ever a time where you lost sight of this and what brought you back to realizing God, family and friends are priorities?
Helen Reddy: I think we've all been through dark periods in our life. I don't think there's anybody who hasn't had a period of questioning.
I don't think I ever doubted ... My family was always a priority for me. A lot of my tours were planned around the children's school schedules.
Helen Reddy: I wasn't struck my lightning.
Baltimore, Md.: You and Me Against the World. Was that your son's voice in the song?
Helen Reddy: No, my son was in utero at the time. It was my daughter's voice.
Albany, N.Y.: How do you rank on Napster? Would you mind if people shared your music? Do you HOPE people share your music?
Helen Reddy: What is Napster? They can download songs from my Web site, www.helenreddy.com. I'm not techie but if it is illegal I'm not in favor of it. Theft is theft.
Fairfax, Va.: Are you involved in feminist causes now? If so, what are you doing?
Helen Reddy: Last Monday I received a medal of honor form the Veteran Feminists of America and I still continue to speak on feminist issues and always will.
Washington, D.C.: What was it like singing with Neil Diamond (and Henry Winkler!) on the Love at the Greek album?
Helen Reddy: If you listen carefully to the track, because I was pulled out of the audience and had been filming Pete's Dragon all day, and you can hear me saying on the track under my breath to Neil, "I'm gonna kill you for this."
Charles Town, W.Va.: When you accepted your Grammy award for "I Am Woman," you thanked "God because She makes everything possible." What kind of reaction did that comment spark from organized religion?
Helen Reddy: I got a couple of crank letters from individuals but I don't recall any reaction from any organized religion.
Herndon, Va.: Hi Helen: You look great! I have read your book and saw the picture of your granddaughter--she is so cute! Is is about the same age as my son. I also saw the picture of Jordan and was wondering (seems there was something floating around about this) if his wife was killed in a car accident? I send my heartfelt symthany to you and him if this is the case. I know what it is like to lose a love one by a car accident and having almost lost my husband in Afghanistan recently. Much happiness to you and enjoyment. Shelia
Helen Reddy: The epilogue in my book talks about my daughter-in-law. She died of a pulmonary embolism.
La Grange, Mo. : I too am a retired musician though I only lasted 25 years. I can certainly relate to burnout and I never had to deal with health problems. Can't wait to read your book, best of luck in your new career.
Fairfax, Va.: I think President Kennedy also had Addison's Disease, although it was not publicized. I hope you manage well with it.
I just bought a CD of your greatest hits about two months ago and enjoy it. You have a distinctive singing voice. It is powerful, and enhanced by your accent (I don't always hear any difference between British and American singers). There is never any problem identifying you when your songs come up on the radio. Thanks for all the entertainment.
Helen Reddy: To Nashville: I always admired your work. Glad to hear that you're doing so well. All the best.
Hartford, Conn.: Hi. I'm looking forward to reading your book. What is your life like today, now that you are no longer performing?
Helen Reddy: I now live in Sydney and am very happy living a quiet, laid back life.
Arlington, Va.: Hi Helen. I saw you recently in New York at a book signing. The line stretched around the block. How does it feel to know that you have that kind of support after all these years of public life?
Helen Reddy: Well, it's certainly encouraging to someone with their first book. Thanks for coming.
Currie, Minn. : You have done many interesting and important things in your life, raised wonderful children, inspired and consoled people with your songs, entertained on stage and in the movies, as well as supported and educated the public on many causes/issues, so ... I am wondering what you would consider your "shining moment?"
Helen Reddy: Being born. (LAUGHS)
North Canton, Ohio: Are there any unreleased recordings or videos that may make it to the market soon?
Helen Reddy: You should keep an eye out on my Web site: www.helenreddy.com. Unreleased material will be posted form time to time.
Alexandria, Va.: Your book is excellent and inspiring. I especially appreciate the parts about your mother and father. You have helped so many people through your music over the years. Do you plan to keep writing?
Helen Reddy: Yes. I plan to keep writing and speaking. I don't sing anymore but I still use my voice to heal and hopefuly inspire.
I am a musician/songwriter and you were a hero of mine with your wonderful voice and songs. First of all, thank you for your great work.
My question is: I am finally breaking out with a mainstream album this summer after many of years of hiding my talents, afraid of rejection. Although I am now ready to go for it, I'm pushing 50, so my confidence is a little shakey in this age of tight young bodies. I was wondering if you could give me any advice on the eve of my "going for it" with my music career.
Thanks and Love and Blessings with your wonderful and full life as it is now, and your health.
Helen Reddy: It is difficult nowadays when music has become more a visual medium than an audio one. But I would advise you to emphasize what is unique about yourself and not try to imitate younger people who may not have your musical talent.
Fairfax, Va.: I saw you recently on the Today show and so enjoyed the film clips of your TV Show -- those were the wonderful years of TV -- when it was "FUN" to watch TV and feel good. Thank you for your input into those wonderful years.
Helen Reddy: I agree with you. I miss those shows too but nowadays I would rather read.
Washington, D.C.: Why did you write I Am Woman and what were you saying back then in 1972?
Helen Reddy: I answer you question at length in my book, The Woman I Am.
Charles Town, W.Va.: In your book, you talk about signs that you have received from loved ones who have passed. Do you think we all receive these kinds of signs and how do we keep from missing them?
Helen Reddy: I think we all receive signs and sometimes they are so subtle we don't notice them. But if you specifically ask for a sign it will come. However, it may not happen right away. It may take weeks or months before you get that sign.
Currie, Minn.: I had the good fortune of seeing you in concert in the 70s and 80s and I must say that I am sorry my children will not have that opportunity, but they have Pete's Dragon and, of course, your music. My 7-year-old prefers your older music, while my 4-year-old stole my Center Stage CD! Have you considered perhaps writing a children's book?
Helen Reddy: I have considered it, yes, but I have not yet done it. It's a great idea.
Crystal City, Va.: When did your TV show air and is it now available on DVD?
Helen Reddy: The show aired in the summer of 1973 and no, it is not available on DVD.
Sterling, Va.: You were stunning in Blood Brothers on Broadway. Did you prefer performing with others in an ensemble such as that or did you prefer the concert stage?
Helen Reddy: What I most enjoyed when I was performing was the variety so being able to a stage show with others was wonderful. I also loved performing in Shirley Valentine, which is a one-woman play, as well as the concert stage. I enjoyed every medium that I worked in ... and I've covered them all: theater, concerts, television, film and recording.
Herndon, Va.: Would you as a woman find it hard to break into the music scene at the present time and what advice would you give women of today about who they are and what role they play in today world's (not just women in the U.S. but around the world)?
Helen Reddy: I wouldn't attempt to break into the music business today and my advice to any woman is be true to yourself. Don't listen to the voices that tell you you are too fat, too thin, too old, too young, not blonde enough, etc., etc.
Arlington, Va.: Are you going to be making any appearances or doing any book signings in the Washington, D.C. area?
Helen Reddy: There is nothing planned at this time.
Alexandria, Va.: Speaking of film, Pete's Dragon is an excellent, positive movie for children as well as adults. I read, at the time you made it, that you wanted to make a film that you would be proud to have your grandchildren see. Has your granddaughter seen it and what did she think?
Helen Reddy: Yes, my granddaughter has and she was very pleasantly surprised as she had no idea her grandmother was a movie star.
Newark, N.J.: How did you enjoy "Reddy or Not"?
Helen Reddy: I saw that the other night in New York. I loved it. It's this couple and they've made a cabaret act of my music. They've woven some of my songs into their own story and I thought it was very funny.
Charles Town, W.Va.: I just want to thank you for sharing so much about yourself in the book. Was it difficult writing some of it and how did you decide what to leave out?
Helen Reddy: It's hard writing, period. I was truthful in my book but I was also mindful not to deliberately hurt anyone.
Washington, D.C.: When did you last perform and did you have a farewell concert?
Helen Reddy: I made the decision to retire in 2000 and not to accept anymore bookings; however, I did honor the contracts I still had to fulfill. My last two performances were with the Edmonton Symphony in Canada and fans came from 13 different U.S. states to attend.
Burger Commercials: Have you seen the burger commercials with a rock version of your song and a bunch of guys singing "I am Man" as they eat the meat? My wife loves that spot (of course, she has a great sense of humor).
Helen Reddy: I have not seen the commercial but I gave my approval for it to the ad agency. (I am the lyricist.) I thought it was funny. Everybody I asked thought it was funny.
Helen Reddy: Thank you so much for all your wonderful questions.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Live Online catches up with international recording star Helen Reddy ("I Am Woman") who will discuss her life, recording career and her autobiography, "The Woman I Am."
| 86.555556 | 0.916667 | 2.138889 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050800899.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/08/DI2006050800899.html
|
Hayden Nominated to Head CIA
|
2006050919
|
John Brennan , former head of the National Counterterrorism Center and the Terrorist Threat Integration Center who was with the CIA for 25 years and is now president and CEO of The Analysis Corporation, was online Tuesday, May 9, at noon ET to discuss President Bush 's nomination of General Michael V. Hayden to lead the CIA and replace Porter Goss , who announced his resignation Friday.
Hayden Nominated to Head CIA , ( May 8, 2006 )
Woodbridge, Va.: I was wondering if you could comment on an article by Marc Gerecht (a former Middle Eastern specialist for the CIA) that appeared in today's Wall Street Journal. In the article he remarks that the CIA's free-fall had very little to do with Mr. Goss's tenure and everything to do with a risk averse culture characterized by case officers who sat around in embassies waiting for intelligence to come their way. He states that the institution had been rotting from within for a long period of time and goes on to make the point that it is a myth to think Mr. Goss forced out numerous critical CIA officers for shallow political reasons but that, in reality, he encountered an entrenched bureaucracy unwilling change. My question is, does the CIA's supposed morale boost, associated with the re-ascendance of those who opposed reform (represented by nomination of Mr. Kappes as the Deputy Director) really constitute progress if the agency so desperately needs to be deconstructed? After all, if Mr. Tenet deserved the Medal of Freedom, then who is accountable for the claim that the existence of WMD in Iraq was a "slam dunk?"
John Brennan: There is a lot in your question. Personally, I do not look to Raul Gerecht for insights about the Agency. His information is dated and and I believe frequently inconsistent with the facts. The Agency should not be deconstructed......its work is critical to this nation's security. Kappes and Hayden are outstanding intelligence professionals, and they will help reconstruct the Agency at a time when the country needs it most.
Ashland, Mo.: The areas where the CIA has been deficient are well known - but not its successes. Is part of the problem with the current CIA that it is in constant CYA posture. It will not reach any conclusion for fear it will be found to be incorrect. Therefore, some part of the agency will support every position so that if one part is incorrect, another part will be correct. This leads to constant infighting and few useful conclusions. Moreover, is the agency simply too full of hubris over its mission?
John Brennan: The Agency has many more successes than failures. Some of the failures are due to lack of resources, poor policy choices, and other causes. Other failures are because Agency officers didn't perform as they were expected. As for your comment about reluctance to reach a conclusion, the intelligence is a complex one. While Agency officers are willing to state their "findings" and "judgments," it is also their obligations to raise reporting or analytic arguments that are contrary to their considered views, as policymakers expect them to give them countervailing information or arguments.
Harlingen, Tex.: What can Gen. Hayden possibly do to salvage the situation at the CIA given the broader mess in Washington that will limit his options?
To me (25 years in the intelligence community) it seems as if the car has already driven off the cliff, and changing drivers now isn't going to make much difference when it hits the ground.
John Brennan: The Intelligence Community has gone through some very tough times over the past several years, and I would agree that there is a lot of changes and improvements that need to be made. That is why having experienced intelligence professionals like Mike Hayden and Steve Kappes take the helm of CIA is so important at this time of transformation and transition. Mike and Steve know the strengths and, more importantly, know the weaknesses of the Agency and the Community. I believe that they can get the CIA on the right track, which is tremendously important to this nation's security.
Bethesda, Md.: I was watching the News Hour and someone pointed out that a military person might be a bad influence on the CIA. How would the staff like a military person?
John Brennan: It all depends on the person. Mike Hayden is an outstanding intelligence professional, and he has demonstrated over the years that he is willing to stand up to the SecDef on intelligence matters. I believe that the more enlightened CIA officers will look at the quality of the person nominated rather than the uniform he wears.
Washington, D.C.: Under Goss' tenure the publication of books by former CIA employees was condemned reversing a trend that had existed at least since the early to mid-1990s.
The Publication Review Board (PRB), which had normally been very successful in working with prospective authors in order to sanitize classified information, found itself ordered to take hard-line positions. Indeed, its last Director reportedly left the position for this very reason.
Do you see any potential change in attitude should Gen Hayden and Kappos be installed as leadership?
John Brennan: I have submitted several articles to the PRB and have not had any trouble. I have heard that approvals have become more difficult in recent weeks and that there is a serious delay in getting articles turned around. I am confident that Hayden and Kappes would make sure that the PRB process is a smooth one, which means that it will give a careful scrub to submissions to ensure that classified information does not get out but that the review will take place in a timely manner.
Laramie, Wyo.: Isn't it against the law for the head of the CIA and the Deputy to both be military (active or retired)? Why hasn't the well-connected press been all over this? And has anyone informed Vice Admiral Albert Calland III?
John Brennan: Yes, only the director or the deputy director can be active duty military. The current deputy, Admiral Bert Calland, will step down if Hayden is confirmed. This issue has been raised in the press.
Los Angeles, Calif.: Dear Mr. Brennan,
According to Melissa Boyle Mahle, on the day of 9/11, DCI Tenet spoke to the agency to inform them that in essence, the CIA had done everything it could have done, and that CIA employees should not worry. She then went on to criticize him for not owning up to the CIA's failure to stop 9/11.
But what struck me was this: Why would the DCI assure the agency it had acted appropriately after 3,000 Americans had just died? Could it be that the DCI had in fact been going around with his hair on fire? Was he implying that the attack was the fault of the FBI, Dr. Rice, and Mr. Bush?
Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
John Brennan: The Agency worked hard before 9/11 to prevent al-Qa'ida from carrying out its plans to attack U.S. interests, including in the Homeland. And no one worked more tirelessly at that effort than George Tenet. I know that from personal experience. However, all the efforts carried out were not sufficient to stop the devastating attacks on that September morning in 2001. The Agency and the rest of the Intelligence Community are now dedicated to doing more and, yes, doing better so that we never experience such an attack again.
Columbia, Md.: Gen. Hayden was the worst director NSA ever had in it's history. Almost single-handedly, Hayden managed to virtually destroy a fine, productive, and customer-oriented intelligence organization. Why does anyone think he won't do the same to the CIA?
John Brennan: I totally disagree with you. Mike Hayden made a number of very important changes at the Fort. Did he make everyone happy in the process? No. But strong and innovative leaders never do.
Anonymous: Rumsfeld told CIA (ret.) Ray McGovern that he was not in the intelligence business. I then read he controls 80% of the intelligence budget. Is this Orwellian double-speak, or what?
John Brennan: You will need to ask the SecDef what he meant by his answer. From my perspective, DoD is very much in the intelligence business....has been for a long time and will be forever and a day.
Princeton, N.J.: Surely the fact that Hayden was deeply involved in a program most legal scholars believe to be illegal, the fact that he does not understand the fourth amendment, and the fact he has little experience in HUMANIT makes him the wrong person in the wrong place at the wrong time.
John Brennan: Sorry, but I believe he is the right person at the right time. he probably has a better sense of HUMINT than virtually anyone else who has been appointed to head up the CIA. He has lived and breathed the interaction between HUMINT and SIGINT over the last half dozen years. In fact, I would argue that he will come to the job with a far better appreciation of 21st century HUMINT than did Porter Goss, a case officer from the early 1960s.
Columbia, S.C.: What, in your opinion, will be the major differences between Hayden's position at the NSA and his new position at CIA? How do you think his stint at the NSA prepared him (or didn't prepare him) for dealing with issues and problems at the CIA? Also, isn't the NSA a civilian (or part civilian) agency - making these comments about military and civilian not very important?
John Brennan: NSA falls within the Department of Defense. It is referred to as a "Combat Support Agency." Mike NSA experience and his experience as DDNI gives him outstanding insight to the HUMINT world and the role that the CIA needs to play in the future.
The CIA seems to be fairly open about the fact that it is serious about hiring new recruits -- more specifically, it is looking to hire more and more young people in an effort to replace those who have left, while at the same time augmenting the already impressive human capital at the Agency.
With that in mind, what kind of advice do you have for people who are interested in joining the Agency, but usually wouldn't have been recruited through the usual channels (i.e. military, DoD, etc.)?
John Brennan: I applied to the CIA in the late 1970s by replying to an add in the NYTimes. I had an absolutely wonderful career, and I wouldn't have traded it for the world. Public service, in my mind, is something that every U.S. citizen should partake in at some point in their lives. Working for the CIA is an excellent way to contribute to our nation's security. I believe in the CIA's future, especially if Mike Hayden and Steve Kappes will be the residents on the 7th floor at Langley.
Tampa, Fla.: I understand Hayden's expertise is electronic measures. But I also understand the CIA's greatest weakness in human intelligence, especially in the Islamic world. So why appoint an e-spy and not someone with real expertise in human intelligence?
John Brennan: Steve Kappes, widely expected to be Mike's deputy once confirmed, is one of the most outstanding HUMINT experts in the world. The combination of Hayden and Kappes, in my view, will be a home run for the Agency and for the country.
Arlington, Va.: How can General Hayden -- assuming he becomes the new CIA chief -- win the support of his troops while still shedding some of the Agency's traditional roles and responsibilities to the new structure -- including the part you used to run the NCTC?
John Brennan: There are necessary changes in the Intelligence Community that CIA needs to accept and adapt to. The NCTC is now, by statute, the government entity with "primary" responsibility for terrorism analysis. However, CIA's CTC will continue to be the premier government component prosecuting the global campaign against al-Qa'ida and other terrorist organizations. Mike Hayden and John Negroponte need to find the right balance in the community of roles and responsibilities on counterterrorism and the myriad other substantive issues of importance to national security.
Silver Spring, Md.: What is the substance behind the criticism that Gen. Hayden's appointment as DCI would represent too much military and DoD control of intelligence? Is it mostly political rhetoric, and code for "we just don't like Hayden?" And, beyond symbolism, what would Hayden gain from retiring from active Air Force duty should the Senate confirm him as DCI?
John Brennan: There is concern about DoD's growing role in intelligence matters, some of which has taken place at CIA expense. I share those concerns. Thus, some people are concerned that "General" Hayden will accelerate this trend. I disagree. Mike has stood up to the Pentagon's brass on many occasions, and he will do so when he takes over at CIA. Symbolically, it might make some sense for Mike to retire from active duty Air Force after he is confirmed. One final point. I find it absolutely absurd that some members of Congress say that, regardless of whether Mike takes off his uniform, his exemplary 35-year military record disqualifies him for the CIA job. That is an absurd argument that all members of the armed forces should resent.
Anonymous: General Hayden is obviously devoted to the war on terror, and to the President. What disturbs me is his disregard for the Constitution. Considering Bush's declaration that he is above the laws of the land, do you think our leaders are rudderless? I fear that the Constitution is being besmirched, and Hayden is in on it. Your opinion?
John Brennan: Mike has been dedicated to defending the Constitution throughout his professional career. The program to which you are alluding is a complicated one and one with which I am intimately familiar. I will just say that my experience was that Mike performed his NSA responsibilities with professionalism and integrity.
Rochester, N.Y.: Has the CIA become so closely tied to politics that in its present organization form it is becoming ineffective in objective data collection?
John Brennan: I am concerned about attempts over the past several years to "politicize" intelligence. It is quite unfortunate. I believe that the CIA post, and the position of Director of national Intelligence, need to be term 5-year assignments, so that they can be taken out of the cycle of political appointments. There is an absolute need for independence, integrity, and objectivity in the senior ranks of our Intelligence Community.
Herndon, Va.: How will the loss of General Hayden from the DNI's staff affect that new organization? Wasn't Gen. Hayden charged with running the DNI's day-to-day operations?
John Brennan: Mike departure will be felt, and John Negroponte will need to select an able replacement. There is still much "flux" in the Office of the DNI and a lot of uncertainty about its role and mission in the Intelligence Community of the future. These uncertainties need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Pittsburgh, Pa.: I am no fan of this administration but I think the Senate would be wise to get General Hayden confirmed and get on with the business of improving our intel capabilities. What did you make of General Hayden's response to a question on the Fourth Amendment in front of the National Press Club when he seemed to dismiss the "probable cause" standard for search warrants? It made me uncomfortable but I still think he needs to be confirmed quickly.
John Brennan: Mike is capable of giving a strong answer to questions related to the Fourth Amendment and U.S. intelligence collection activities. I am certain he will be well prepared for that question at his upcoming confirmation hearing.
Fairfax, Va.: Good afternoon, Mr. Brennan. A number of media articles note that, under Director Goss's leadership, the CIA lost a generation of senior officials, including many managers and analysts with specific knowledge related to the Middle East and terrorism. I'd just like to comment that the CIA also lost a large number of well-educated young officers during that time period. Disheartened by the direction the Agency was moving in and the perks showered on certain officials and yes-people, so many of them moved to the private sector. What a loss for the CIA.
John Brennan: I agree. A lot of outstanding young Americans joined CIA after the tragedy of 9/11 with high expectations of their future contribution to our nation's security. It will be up to Mike Hayden and Steve Kappes to reinstill a strong sense of enthusiasm and commitment in the workforce.
Washington, D.C.: What did America do before it had a CIA?
Spies and spying are as old as civilization, but the CIA has only been around for 60 years. So where were America's intelligence services housed before World War II, and why can we not go back to that system?
John Brennan: The world is much different now than it was in pre-CIA days. Take a look at the advances in technology. There is no going back.
Falls Church, Va.: While Michael Hayden is obviously qualified for the job of CIA Director, politics were also involved in this choice. Since Hayden has been working under Negroponte, do you think his selection is intended to force the CIA to "get in line" with the new order of things under the DNI?
John Brennan: I think that there is an effort underway to get the CIA to adapt to the new realities of the Intelligence Community. The CIA has resisted many of these changes, which has been a problem. It is time to move forward.
Vienna, Austria: What is your opinion about the possibility of more former officers such as Kappes returning to the Agency if the Hayden appointment is viewed favorably within the former and current officer ranks?
John Brennan: I think that some Agency officers who departed may be enticed to return. But it also is a time to bring in new blood, and I think that is where Hayden and Kappes will focus their efforts.
Vancouver, Wash.: Hello John Brennan.
I was wondering if you think Hayden will be confirmed? Because both Dems and Repub's are opposing his nomination.
John Brennan: I hope--and believe--that Mike Hayden will be confirmed. The confirmation hearing will probably have its difficult moments, mainly because of the many difficult intelligence issues that have swirled about over the past several years, but Mike Hayden's competence will win the day.
Brookville, N.Y.: Promotions above two-stars are temporary and retirements above two stars are subject to approval. If Gen Hayden were to serve as CIA Director while on active duty, would SecDef, SecAF. or AF Chief of Staff be able to thwart Gen Hayden's eventual request to retire at four stars and thus be able to influence his conduct at CIA?
John Brennan: I don't know the answer to your question, but I do not believe Mike Hayden will allow anyone to influence his actions or conduct inappropriately. He has too much integrity to let that ever happen.
Reston, Va.: Will CIA personnel be perturbed that President Bush did not tap someone with more HUMINT experience, and would they be justified in that anger?
John Brennan: I think most Agency officers are simply looking for a strong leader who will be able to chart their future in the Intelligence Community. Mike Hayden is a charismatic, personable, and smart person who will be able to bond with the Agency's workforce.
Reston, Va.: Why does the DIA come under DCI? It's in the Defense Dept. and Rumsfeld seems to want to keep as much power over intelligence as he can.
John Brennan: The DIA falls within the Department of Defense but its intelligence function falls under the purview of the DNI. So, you may ask, who is in charge and controls its resources and mission? Good question, as command authority is unresolved in legislation and in practice.
Tallahassee, Fla.: Does the CIA mostly recruit spies among the civilian population or former military men and women? Is there any shift in recruiting tactics post Sept. 11?
John Brennan: "Spies" is the term used for the individuals that CIA case officers recruit to gather intelligence. The CIA will recruit spies wherever they may prove useful and where it is consistent with U.S. law. The Agency recruits U.S. citizens into the Agency's workforce from universities, the military, the business community, etc....
Boston, Mass.: Thank you for participating in this chat and offering an informed defense of Hayden. However, I would hope that you would admit that he made a real error when he dismissed a reporter's claim that the 4th amendment requires probable cause (which it does), saying "believe me, if there's any amendment to the Constitution that employees of the National Security Agency are familiar with, it's the Fourth".
A momentary lapse, I would hope, but a little scary.
John Brennan: Well, I wouldn't disagree with Hayden remark that NSA officers are quite familiar with the Fourth Amendment, as they are. Could his explanation been better? yes, and I hope he follows up on it in future opportunities, of which there will be many.
Vienna, Va.: I don't think the problem regarding employee moral is so much that he is a "military man", but more that he has never worked for the CIA. For those of us who see it more as a place of employment, as others may see their own private companies, it is discouraging. Joe Public may always think that the CIA is in need of restructuring, but the constant restructuring of this agency, which only gets credit for the things that go wrong, is creating a bureaucracy as problematic as the problems they are trying to fix.
John Brennan: I couldn't agree with you more that the Agency has undergone very unfortunate turmoil over the past several years due to restructuring and new legislation that, in my view, is flawed due to its ambiguities and lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities.
Baltimore, Md.: I frequently hear grumbling that Negroponte sends exactly the wrong message to most of the intel community by using the title "Ambassador," though he is obviously entitled to use that title. I often wonder if he's aware of these discussions behind his back...
What advice would you give to General Hayden about the use of his rank as title of address within the Agency? Protocol would be to go by "General Hayden," but would their be any benefit to introduce himself (or request that he be introduced in the bubble) as Director or simply by name?
John Brennan: When addressing John Negroponte, I always said "Mr. Director," as I believe one's title should reflect one's current position. If Mike Hayden is confirmed, I will address him as Mr. Director or Director Hayden.
Washington, D.C.: Since NSA is larger than the CIA and General Hayden is well known, isn't the vacancy at NSA a much bigger issue now?
John Brennan: No vacancy at NSA. Mike Hayden left NSA last year, and Lt. General Keith Alexander is currently serving as DirNSA.
Anonymous: Greetings, In answer to the question posed about pre-CIA, it was OSS Office of Strategic Services during WWII, and prior to that Naval Intelligence was the primary source of overseas intelligence. In my opinion, the original CIA charter has been abused by including covert operations, which has caused most of our problems. The CIA should stick to gathering and analyzing intelligence. YOUR OPINION?
John Brennan: I believe covert action is a VERY important part of the Intelligence Community's arsenal, but it should be used judiciously and selectively. CIA also should be the premier agency for HUMINT. A debate is underway in the Community as to whether the all-source analytic function should remain at CIA or go elsewhere. It's a worthwhile debate.
Some ex-CIA agents that I have met have said things along the lines of "just because you wouldn't do it doesn't mean others won't" and implied that the CIA has done things that we, lowly, ordinary Americans would be shocked to discover. Hiring a thug to take someone out, for example.
Without giving anything away, and in the most general sense, for the CIA, is EVERYTHING on the table? Or are there some things even the CIA won't get involved with?
John Brennan: Let me just say that I believe Agency actions, at all times and in all instances, should comport with our values as a country. that is why I am an advocate of an open discourse on the standards of treatment of individuals captured/detained by the U.S. and suspected of involvement in terrorism as well as on what types of collection activities, including those involving U.S. citizens, should be allowed. Along these lines, I do not believe our Congressional oversight committees have fulfilled their responsibilities to ensure that such debate takes place.
Richmond, Va.: Why do you think that Porter Goss's tenure was as unsuccessful as it was? I thought when he was nominated he seemed to be a good candidate for DCI 'on paper'. Former CIA case officer with experience on Congressional oversight of the agency looked like a good combination.
John Brennan: Porter Goss has been a dedicated public servant for many decades, and he tried to make the Agency a better place. Unfortunately, Director Goss surrounded himself with people who were not up to the task of shaping the Agency's future, and the Agency and the country suffered as a result.
Richmond, Va.: I assume that if General Hayden is confirmed and still remains on active duty in the Air Force that he will somehow be outside the normal Pentagon chain of command as DCIA? I.e. the SecDef won't be able to give him an order to execute as DCIA, correct?
John Brennan: The D/CIA should never be in a position of taking any order from the SecDef, and that will need to be made clear whether or not Mike Hayden remains an Air Force general or not.
That's about it for now. Thanks for the opportunity to address your questions about the Agency's future. As you probably have discerned, I am a big fan of Mike Hayden and Steve Kappes, and I believe they can do great things at the Agency. As a critic of other actions by the Administration in the intelligence arena, I believe the appointments may be harbingers of more thoughtful decisions in the future. I hope so, as our country needs a strong Intelligence Community and a strong CIA.
washingtonpost.com: Thank you all for joining us today.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
John Brennan, former head of the National Counterterrorism Center and the Terrorist Threat Integration Center who was with the CIA for 25 years and is now president and CEO of The Analysis Corporation, discusses President Bush's nomination of General Michael V. Hayden to lead the CIA.
| 105.08 | 0.98 | 27.9 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801387.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801387.html
|
Finally, Something From Mary
|
2006050919
|
Near the start of her memoir, being published today, Mary Cheney tells the story of her first political assignment. It was 1978, Dick Cheney's first run for Congress, and 9-year-old Mary was detailed to stand outside campaign headquarters, proudly wearing a sandwich board that read "Honk for Cheney."
Mary Cheney didn't wear a sandwich board when her father ran for vice president, but she might as well have: She was -- instantaneously and indelibly -- Dick Cheney's Lesbian Daughter. From Alan Keyes's crazed assessment ("selfish hedonist") to John Kerry's gratuitous invocation of the L-word, Mary Cheney served as a silent prop for advocates on both sides of the battle over gay rights. Honk for Mary. Honk against her.
Gay activists were so enraged by what they saw as her traitorous silence that they put her picture on milk cartons: "Have You Seen Me?" The intolerant right squirmed at a "lesbian activist" helping run the vice president's campaign; they squirmed even more when her partner, Heather Poe, turned up in the Cheney family box at the Republican National Convention.
The title of Cheney's book, then, is doubly fitting: "Now It's My Turn: A Daughter's Chronicle of Political Life." Being a politician's child means constantly having to bite your tongue, and Mary Cheney has had more occasion for biting than most. This is, finally, her "Garbo Speaks" moment. Yet this Garbo is still a daughter -- and daughter of the vice president. This explains why she was able to obtain a reported $1 million advance but also why what she says remains deliberately muffled.
Mary Cheney is ready to talk, but there's a lot she's not ready to talk about. Asked by People magazine whether she planned to have children, Cheney replied, "That's one Heather and I are going to have to talk about before I can tell you." This is a couple that's been together for 14 years. They haven't gotten around to discussing kids?
This reticence, in her book and accompanying publicity, isn't surprising. Political memoirs, especially from figures still immersed in politics, tend more toward score-settling than rigorous self-assessment. On top of that, neither introspection nor self-revelation comes easily to Cheneys -- the "most buttoned-down of families," Cheney writes.
She is more comfortable discussing the mechanics of advance work than her life as a lesbian. Cheney dispenses briskly with coming out to her parents: She broke up with her high school girlfriend, crashed the family car and announced she was gay. With the exception of a brief bout of maternal teariness ("Your life will be so hard," Lynne Cheney worried), everyone, she says, was immediately accepting.
If Mary Cheney agonized about how to tell the folks, or if anyone has ever uttered a disparaging word about gays in her presence, she doesn't choose to share it. Did she wince when her mother, asked during the 2000 campaign about having "a daughter who has now declared that she is openly gay," indignantly replied, "Mary has never declared such a thing" -- this about a woman who had, until recently, been the Coors beer company's liaison to the gay community? The episode goes unmentioned.
Cheney doesn't take on this issue directly, but the most compelling aspect of her story is the strange and often conflicted life of the political child, born not just into a family business but into a family ideology. Would Cheney have been -- would she have remained -- a Republican in a different, nonpolitical family? "I don't tend to like hypothetical questions," she told Diane Sawyer -- then proceeded to eagerly answer a different one: whether she would have backed George W. Bush even if her father weren't on the ticket. ("You bet.")
The news of the book will be Cheney's denunciation of a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage. Cheney calls the amendment "fundamentally wrong -- and a gross affront to gays and lesbians everywhere." After Bush decided to endorse it, she writes, "I seriously considered packing up my office and heading home to Colorado."
In the end, she not only didn't head home, she also chose not to take up the president on his offer to let her issue a dissenting statement: Loyal staffers, and loyal political children, don't dissent, even from gross affronts. Cheney explains this as primarily a matter of faith in her father, who made his disagreement with the amendment clear even as he clapped for it onstage at Bush's State of the Union address.
Cheney's critics will reject this good-soldier stance; they'll be as unsatisfied with her belated disagreement as they were with her previous silence. Cynics will say she rationalized a way to keep her insider campaign job and pocket a huge advance, too. Maybe: Cheney is certainly no profile in political courage. As she told People, "I'm not a ramparts kind of a girl."
Still, it's awfully easy for an outsider to say what Mary Cheney should have done when family loyalty collided with personal conviction. Those who would judge her choices ought to walk a mile in her sandwich board.
|
Near the start of her memoir, being published today, Mary Cheney tells the story of her first political assignment. It was 1978, Dick Cheney's first run for Congress, and 9-year-old Mary was detailed to stand outside campaign headquarters, proudly wearing a sandwich board that read "Honk for...
| 17.931034 | 0.982759 | 56.017241 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800141.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800141.html
|
No Proposals in Iranian's Letter to Bush, U.S. Says
|
2006050919
|
ISTANBUL, May 8 -- Senior U.S. officials dismissed an 18-page letter from President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran to President Bush on Monday, saying the document that broke 27 years of official and hostile silence between leaders of the two governments contained no proposals for resolving the confrontation over Iran's nuclear ambitions.
In the letter, Ahmadinejad sharply criticized Bush on a broad range of fronts, suggesting that the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, abuses of detainees in U.S.-run facilities from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq, and support for Israel were inconsistent with Bush's Christian faith.
"Can one be a follower of Jesus Christ, the great Messenger of God . . . . But at the same time, have countries attacked: the lives, reputations and possessions of people destroyed," read the letter, which was delivered by Swiss diplomats, whose embassy received it in Tehran from Ahmadinejad's foreign minister. The missive was Iran's second public overture to Washington in two months, and the first originating entirely from Tehran.
"This letter isn't it," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice told the Associated Press. "This letter is not the place that one would find an opening to engage on the nuclear issue or anything of the sort. It isn't addressing the issues that we're dealing with in a concrete way. . . . It is most assuredly not a proposal."
Ahmadinejad, a hard-line conservative, declared at an April 25 news conference that he was planning to write to world leaders "and let them know about a few things." He made no specific request for direct diplomatic exchanges between Iran and the United States in the letter to Bush. Rather than specific proposals, it was more in line with an unsolicited epistle Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of Iran's theocratic system, dispatched to Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in January 1989 that urged him to study Islam. Ahmadinejad, in his letter, implored Bush to return to the teachings of Christianity.
Ahmadinejad's writing and rhetoric is typically laced with ardent calls for "spirituality." With such a letter, he is following the example of the prophet Muhammad, who was known to write even to his enemies.
"Domestically, it's extremely important," said Nasser Hadian-Jazy, a political scientist at Tehran University. "He's taking the initiative. And though it may not be important outside Iran, the leader has designated this year the Year of the Prophet."
Bush administration officials said the letter was an attempt to widen fissures in efforts by the United States and Europe to build international pressure for Iran to abandon its nuclear program. Russia and China are so far resisting the call for a U.N. Security Council vote under an article that could lead to sanctions, and conceivably military action.
Rice met in New York on Monday night with counterparts from other Security Council nations, as well as Germany and the European Union, but failed to reach agreement on a response to Iran's nuclear activities.
John R. Bolton, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, characterized the letter as a negotiating feint. "The Iranians are always interested in talking right before somebody puts the squeeze on them," he said. "Then, once the squeeze lets up a little bit, back they go to [uranium] enrichment . . . back they go to the pursuit of nuclear weapons."
Ahmadinejad wrote that Iran's pursuit of nuclear technology was a basic right. "Why is it that any technological and scientific achievement reached in the Middle East region is translated into and portrayed as a threat to the Zionist regime," he wrote, referring to Israel.
Bolton dismissed the prospects of U.S. negotiations with Iran, saying a slew of diplomatic initiatives by other countries aimed at stalling Iran's nuclear advances over the past three years had failed to bear fruit.
Private Iranian analysts, however, called sending such a letter tactically shrewd. If Ahmadinejad proposed talks, and the Americans agreed, Iran could "buy time," said Mohsen Sazegara, an Iranian official-turned-dissident who holds a fellowship at Yale University. And if the United States refused, he added, Iran could say, "Well, we tried."
Washington broke off diplomatic relations with Iran in 1979 after militant students overran the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, holding 52 Americans hostage for more than a year. The two governments have had extremely limited contacts since then.
In March, Iran agreed to direct talks with the United States about Iraq, following an overture from the U.S. ambassador in Baghdad. Analysts said that move by Tehran and the letter clearly were both authorized by the ultimate authority in Iran's theocratic government, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Gary Sick, a Columbia University specialist on Iran who was a National Security Council staff member during the 1979 Iranian revolution, said Bush administration officials could be missing a chance by dismissing Iran's overtures in the name of holding together a balky alliance on the Security Council. "It's hard for me to imagine the Americans will respond positively to something that will undercut their efforts in the Security Council," Sick said.
Iranian analysts said it was unclear whether the overtures might mark the start of a significant strategic shift. Iranian politicians often speak of striking a "grand bargain" with the United States, a keystone negotiation that would unlock diplomatic relations, remove U.S. sanctions, resolve the nuclear issue and end Iran's status as a pariah state.
"The nuclear issue is the hub of all the problems here," said one political analyst in Tehran, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "If they can get Western approval for Iran keeping its nuclear research activities and not move to industrial scales, then the pressure on Iran would be lifted, the economic situation would improve and there would be room and justification for the grand bargain. The regime would be legitimate."
Lynch reported from New York.
|
ISTANBUL, May 8 -- Senior U.S. officials dismissed an 18-page letter from President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran to President Bush on Monday, saying the document that broke 27 years of official and hostile silence between leaders of the two governments contained no proposals for resolving the...
| 23.44898 | 0.979592 | 47.020408 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801615.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801615.html
|
CIA Official Quits; FBI Probes Role in Defense Contracts
|
2006050919
|
The FBI is investigating whether a top-ranking CIA official who announced his resignation yesterday steered contracts to a boyhood friend at the center of a congressional bribery scandal, law enforcement officials said.
The investigation of CIA Executive Director Kyle "Dusty" Foggo follows an ongoing investigation by the agency's inspector general, which is examining whether Foggo was involved in CIA contracts awarded to a firm owned by San Diego defense contractor Brent R. Wilkes.
In a brief e-mail to CIA employees yesterday, Foggo said he is stepping down as executive director. The e-mail did not say whether Foggo will leave the CIA, but people within the agency familiar with his plans said he is expected to retire.
The e-mail made no mention of the inspector general's inquiry or Foggo's relationship with Wilkes, officials said. Foggo could not be reached to comment.
Foggo was appointed executive director shortly after Porter J. Goss, who resigned Friday, became director in fall 2004. Foggo and Wilkes have been friends since they went to high school together.
Wilkes has been named as a co-conspirator in the corruption case against former congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham, who pleaded guilty last fall to taking $2.4 million in bribes from Wilkes and others in return for federal contracts. Wilkes has not been charged.
Wilkes's company, ADCS Inc., received more than $80 million in defense contracts, with Cunningham's help, to help convert paper documents to computerized ones.
The FBI recently began examining whether Foggo improperly intervened to help Wilkes obtain some of those contracts, according to two law enforcement officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The inquiry was reported yesterday by the Associated Press.
Foggo has said he has done nothing improper, and the CIA has said the inspector general's review is standard practice and not an indication of wrongdoing.
Foggo's name surfaced in the Cunningham case again last week after reports that FBI agents had questioned a Washington limousine company's president about allegations that Wilkes provided prostitutes to Cunningham and perhaps other lawmakers. The CIA issued a statement last week in which Foggo acknowledged attending poker parties with Wilkes but denied any improprieties.
Some lawmakers have raised questions in recent days about whether the limousine company, Shirlington Limousine and Transportation Inc., was qualified to receive contracts from the Department of Homeland Security.
Wilkes's attorney, Michael Lipman, was out of the country and could not be reached to comment. Lawyers for Wilkes and Christopher D. Baker, president of Shirlington Limousine, have said their clients had no involvement in prostitution. Cunningham's lawyer, K. Lee Blalack II, declined to comment.
Staff writers Jo Becker and Dafna Linzer contributed to this report.
|
The FBI is investigating whether a top-ranking CIA official who announced his resignation yesterday steered contracts to a boyhood friend at the center of a congressional bribery scandal, law enforcement officials said.
| 14.5 | 1 | 36 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801317.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801317.html
|
Take Two of These and Call Us Next Year
|
2006050919
|
When it comes to health care, the Senate has developed a repetitive stress injury.
Five times in the past five years, Republicans brought medical malpractice limits to the floor -- and five times they lost. Yesterday, they brought two more medical malpractice bills to the floor and, to nobody's surprise, lost twice more.
The only thing that's changed is the urgency with which proponents declare a "crisis" in the medical profession.
"This is crisis proportion in my state," Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Pa.), whose state is famous for its observance of Groundhog Day, said on the Senate floor. "This is a crisis that's horrible now. It's only going to get worse if we don't do something about it."
The situation must have deteriorated quickly, for when Santorum arrived an hour later at a rally of OB/GYNs in the Dirksen Building, he proclaimed, "We have reached beyond crisis proportion!"
Kicking off what he dubbed "Health Week" in the Senate, Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) admitted from the start that he didn't have the 60 votes he needed to force action on the two malpractice bills. But this is an election year, and limits on jury awards are a favorite of the chamber of commerce set. So Frist and his colleagues dusted off their two-year-old medical malpractice speeches and read them again.
"The AMA -- the American Medical Association -- says we've reached crisis proportions in 21 states," Frist told his colleagues yesterday. Thus did he fulfill a prophecy he offered 27 months ago from the same lectern: "More states will be added to the AMA crisis list, a list that already has 19 states."
Others didn't even bother to update their speeches.
"These bills address the medical liability and litigation crisis in our country, a crisis that is preventing patients from receiving high-quality health care -- or, in some cases, any care at all," Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) said yesterday. Compare that with his thoughts from February 2004: "This bill addresses the medical liability and litigation crisis in our country, a crisis that is preventing patients from receiving high quality health care -- or, in some cases, any care at all."
In his defense, Hatch had little incentive to waste time writing a new text. Seventy-four bills have been introduced mentioning medical malpractice since President Bush came to office. But only one has become law, and that was a minor provision of a terrorism-insurance law from 2002.
It's not for lack of creativity. Yesterday's efforts were marketed as the "Healthy Mothers and Healthy Babies Access to Care Act" and the "Medical Access Protection Act." Earlier attempts surfaced in the "Health Act," the "Better Health Act" and the "Physician Relief Act."
But opponents aren't buying it. "Nothing has changed from the prior Republican bill," Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) charged on the Senate floor.
Actually, plenty has changed. Eighteen states have taken action in the past six years, and 45 either have some form of malpractice-award caps or are working on them. That has complicated the "crisis" cry.
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) accused the majority of ignoring "the real health-care crisis" in favor of "a bill that's unnecessary and will go nowhere."
"It is a crisis," insisted Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).
"The magnitude of the crisis has been drastically overstated," said Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.).
"There is a crisis," maintained Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.)
"So-called crisis" was the description of Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.).
At the very least, submitted Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.), "we do have a serious problem."
Ah, but what's the solution? The OB/GYNs, in their white coats, cheered loudly as lawmakers, assembled at a rally in the Dirksen Building, promised action to limit malpractice awards. Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-Ga.), himself an obstetrician, pointed out that the assembled doctors "could have delivered 150 babies" in the time they were at the rally.
This led Rep. Michael Burgess (R-Tex.) to wonder: "Who's covering labor and delivery if they're all here?"
Turning to Frist, Burgess, also an obstetrician, urged: "I hope you get it done."
"We'll get it done," Frist promised.
But he didn't get it done. Even with the white coats filling the Senate gallery, the two malpractice bills got just 48 and 49 of the 60 votes needed. In a cruel twist, it was exactly the same margin of defeat their cousins suffered two years ago when there were four fewer GOP senators.
|
When it comes to health care, the Senate has developed a repetitive stress injury.
| 62.1875 | 1 | 16 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2006/05/primary_day_primer_nebraska_an.html/
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2006/05/primary_day_primer_nebraska_an.html/
|
The Fix -- Chris Cillizza's Politics Blog on washingtonpost.com
|
2006050919
|
Once considered a safe bet to win Nebraska's GOP gubernatorial nomination this year, football-titan-turned-congressman Tom Osborne faces the fight of his political life today against Gov. Dave Heineman.
Osborne, who is revered in the state for his days as the head coach of the University of Nebraska football team, has watched his massive lead in the polls steadily erode, despite the fact that the governor has not said a single negative thing about the congressman in any of his paid media.
Nebraska's gubernatorial primary is the marquee race on the ballot today, but the state's voters will also select a GOP nominee to challenge Sen. Ben Nelson (D) in the fall as well as a replacement for Osborne in the state's 3rd District.
West Virginia also hosts a primary today, although there is considerably less action on tap than in Nebraska. Three Democrats are competing for the chance to challenge 2nd District Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R). In the GOP Senate primary, 1984 nominee John Raese leads a crowded field of Republicans competing for the right to take on Sen. Robert Byrd (D) in the fall.
If you haven't been following these race as closely as you would like, never fear, The Fix is here. Below is a quick primer on the races to watch and the likely outcomes. Enjoy!
4th and 1 in the Cornhusker State
Polling in the race between Osborne and Heineman shows that the governor has a slight (but steady) lead heading into primary day. A tracking poll conducted by the MSR Group -- an independent polling firm based in Omaha -- has shown Heineman ahead six of the last eight days with leads ranging from one point to four points. The survey released Monday showed Heineman with a 45 percent to 42 percent lead over Osborne; businessman Dave Nabity took six percent while seven percent were either undecided or favored some other candidate. Heineman is running ahead of Osborne in the latter's home 3rd District (49 percent to 39 percent) and also in the eastern Nebraska 1st District (49 percent to 40 percent). Osborne leads in the Omaha-based 2nd District by a 48 percent to 37 percent margin.
Heineman's lead, however, is well within the poll's 4.4 percent margin of error -- a sign not to invest too much meaning into the survey's findings. Nonetheless, Heineman deserves considerable credit for the fact that he has pushed himself into a toss-up race with an iconic figure in the state.
As The Fix discussed in a previous post on the race, Heineman has largely focused on stacking up accomplishments since taking over the state's top post in January 2005, operating under the belief that if Nebraska voters like the direction of the state, they will be less likely to vote for a change at the top. As he did in his successful campaign for Congress, Osborne has focused his campaign on himself -- and the trustworthy and solid image that conveys. He has also sought to cast himself as a reformer during his six years in Congress, an image bolstered by his recent endorsement by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).
No matter whether Heineman or Osborne wins tonight, the seat is almost certain to stay in GOP hands this fall. Two unknown Democrats -- David Hahn and Glenn Boot -- are seeking their party's nod.
Ricketts: Chuck Hagel, Part 2?
Senate Republicans struggled mightily to find a top-tier candidate after the White House picked Gov. Mike Johanns (R) last year to serve as secretary of Agriculture. Osborne was courted and quickly demurred, as did Heineman. Enter Pete Ricketts, the former CEO of Ameritrade and a political novice. Ricketts has performed extremely well so far in his first political campaign and has shown he is more than willing to spend from his personal fortune to win today's primary. (As of Sunday, he had contributed $4.75 million to the campaign).
The MSR tracking polls show that investment is paying off. After starting as an unknown in the state, Ricketts now has a comfortable double-digit margin over former state Attorney General Don Stenberg, who was the party's nominee against Sen. Nelson in 2000, and former state party chairman Dave Kramer. The last MSR survey showed Ricketts at 48 percent to Stenberg's 28 percent. Kramer received just 11 percent in the survey.
Republicans are already drawing comparisons between Ricketts and Sen. Chuck Hagel, who ran against Nelson in 1996 for the Senate seat vacated by James Exon (D). Like Hagel, Ricketts is a wealthy businessman running as a political outsider. And, like Hagel, Ricketts is using media consultant Doug McAuliffe as one of his lead strategists. Hagel, however, had the additional credibility of his service in Vietnam while Ricketts does not.
Given Nebraska's major Republican tilt (President Bush carried the state by 33 points in 2004), this could be a race to watch in the fall. It comes in at no. 9 on The Fix's latest Friday Senate Line. Here's more background on the race.
Osborne's decision to vacate the 3rd District seat after three terms created a competitive GOP primary to replace him. Three candidates -- state Sen. Adrian Smith, former Osborne aide John Hanson and Grand Island Mayor Jay Vavricek -- are seen as potential winners in today's crowded primary field, with Smith and Hanson the two frontrunners.
Smith won the endorsement of the D.C.-based Club For Growth, which has meant a major financial windfall for the legislator. As of April 19, Smith had raised $435,000 for the contest, compared with $315,000 for Vavricek and $267,000 for Hanson. Smith, who is in his mid-30s, has served in the state's unicameral legislature for the past eight years.
Hanson has strong connections with the agricultural interests in the district (he is Osborne's agriculture director) and should enjoy the benefits of Osborne's political organization -- such as it is.
Democrat Scott Kleeb is unopposed for his party's nomination, a not terribly surprising development given that President Bush won the district by 51 points in 2004. The GOP winner Tuesday night, barring a major misstep, will be the next congressman from Nebraska's 3rd.
West Virginia: GOP Wishful Thinking?
Republicans believe that John Raese will pose a real challenge to Sen. Robert Byrd in the fall, but it remains a decidedly uphill contest. Raese must first secure his party's nomination against a crowded field of challengers led by 2004 state attorney general candidate Hiram Lewis. Lewis has raised more than $1 million through a national direct-mail effort and has attacked Raese for the fact that his wife lives in Florida, not West Virginia. Raese should win the primary, but it will be a low-turnout affair -- meaning anything could happen.
Byrd's vulnerability is almost entirely dependent on how he performs on the stump. At 88 years old, Byrd is slowed by Parkinson's disease (CORRECTION: Byrd's office said this morning that the Senator actually suffers from a condition called "benign essential tremor" not Parkinson's. The Fix regrets the error.) but remains an active figure on the Senate floor. If Byrd can show he is up for another six-year term, it will be difficult for Raese or anyone else to dislodge him.
In the 2nd District, which is centered on Charleston, three Democrats are competing for the nomination to challenge Rep. Capito. Former state party chairman Mike Callaghan is the preferred candidate of the national party. Whoever wins will have little chance (barring a Democratic tidal wave) against Capito, who has held the seat since 2000. President Bush won the district by 15 points in 2004.
Up in the 1st District, Republicans have rallied around state Del. Chris Wakim to challenge Rep. Alan Mollohan (D), who made headlines last month after the National Legal & Policy Center filed a complaint with the Justice Dept. alleging -- among other things -- that Mollohan had inaccurately reported his wealth in past personal financial disclosures. The complaint also called into question the massive increase in Mollohan's household assets over the past four years, the same period during which he secured more than $200 million in earmarks for nonprofit groups that he helped to establish.
Check back tonight and again on Wednesday morning for primary results.
By Chris Cillizza | May 9, 2006; 6:02 AM ET | Category: Governors , House , Senate Previous: Ohio 18: More Trouble for Bob Ney | Next: The Fix Podcast: Who's Running in '08
TrackBack URL for this entry: http://blog.washingtonpost.com/cgi-bin/mt/mtb.cgi/6670
Posted by: Intrepid Liberal Journal | May 9, 2006 06:26 AM
Rupert Murdoch, the conservative media mogul who owns the Fox News Network and the New York Post tabloid that savaged Hillary Clinton's initial aspirations to become a US senator for New York, has agreed to host a political fundraiser for her re-election campaign.
Posted by: Wells | May 9, 2006 07:51 AM
Mr Murdoch will host the fundraiser for Sen. Hillary Clinton, due to be held by July.
Rupert Murdoch, the conservative media mogul who owns the Fox News Network and the New York Post tabloid that savaged Hillary Clinton's initial aspirations to become a US senator for New York, has agreed to host a political fundraiser for her re-election campaign.
Even Rubert Murdoch is abandoning the republicans. It just goes to show you how people change sides so that they can be on the winning team. This is Omen I, II, and III for the republicans when even Rubert Murdoch is running away from them. Obviously, Rubert Murdoch doesn't think that republicans are going to sell very well on his news network in the future. You have to go where the money is ! Expect a political and ideological shift in the Fox News Network over the next 6 months. Ripley's hard to believe but true.
Posted by: Wells | May 9, 2006 08:13 AM
But what does that have to do with Nebraska or West Virginia?
Posted by: The Caped Composer | May 9, 2006 09:11 AM
Parkinson's, eh? I thought Krauthammer was the only MD on the WaPo staff
Posted by: don surber | May 9, 2006 09:15 AM
"Expect a political and ideological shift in the Fox News Network over the next 6 months. Ripley's hard to believe but true."
Wells: you have a gift for understatement. I'd expect that Fox might throttle back on the Hillary-bashing (many GOP'ers will have to find another source for the baseless garbage that allows them to keep hating her) but they are still going to keep beating the political drum about every other Democrat.
CC: admittedly this is all off-topic. Sorry.
Posted by: Judge C. Crater | May 9, 2006 09:17 AM
Let's not forget that West Virginia is traditionally a Democratic state...the fact that we have been fooled by "repulsicans" in the past has made us stronger in our efforts to "Turn West Virginia Blue Again"
Posted by: DamaN | May 9, 2006 09:21 AM
Hogwash Sen. Byrd wins in a landslide ! I will even bet money on it.
I think everyone will remember Byrd senate floor speeches. His speeches on US constitution before we invaded Irag. And what the War Powers Act says the congress is responsible for as compared to giving the President a blank check. If this is republicans definition of old and feeble. What disease does Pres. Bush have ? I haven't seen Bush able to get throgh one speech without messing it up - even when he has cue cards and a teleprompter.
Chris given it up Byrd is SAFE. Plus it is very rare that voters ever get rid of an elected official because he is too old.
" Byrd's vulnerability is almost entirely dependent on how he performs on the stump. At 88 years old, Byrd is slowed by Parkinson's disease but remains an active figure on the Senate floor."
Posted by: Wells | May 9, 2006 09:45 AM
ANyone in W. Virginia - if I remember an issue in the last miner disaster was a reaxation in federal regulations or a lack of enforcement - given that this would fall on the Bush Administration - my question is, how much will this hurt the Reputricans? (no bias there)
Posted by: Bobby Wightman-Cervantes | May 9, 2006 09:47 AM
CHRIS I LIKE HOW YOU DON"T MENTION ALL OF CAPITO'S ETHICAL PROBLEMS ( BIASED ? )
Representative Capito has disturbing ties to disgraced and convicted former Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham. Capito has taken: · $6,000 from "Duke's" PAC.
"Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) to shed tainted money: $6,000 in funds from shamed GOP congressman will go to YWCA" How tied up is Representative Capito with the Tom DeLay/Jack Abramoff scandal? Capito has taken: · $48,500 from Tom DeLay's ARMPAC. · $7,000 from Bob Ney, the first congressman to be implicated based on the Jack Abramoff guilty plea. Although they are starting to catch on, the media has apparently never found it remarkable that House Representative's husband Charles L. Capito, Jr., is First Vice President and a Senior Investments Manager for Salomon Smith Barney. (source) So the media may never get around to the questionable link between hubby Charles' unique position and the fact that his Congress-spouse received tainted money from war contractors in the first place. Given his position, how could Ms. Capito have accepted any war contractor money in the first place? Didn't the House used to have something called an ethics committee? Not any longer, at least not one that functions. But why is she "donating" that tainted money to her local YWCA now? Perhaps she's paranoid. Because if the mainstream media ever took the time to really analyze the Capitos stock investments, they might just find that since she voted for the war, not only has they done quite well for themselves in defense industry holdings, they might also figure out why Salomon Smith Barney's investments have fared particularly well while she's held the GOP line to block all Congressional oversight of Bush's Iraq war budget. Up until now, mainstream media has never come even close to questioning how hubby Charles' "special access" to insider info about war contracts through his wife's position has enabled him to guide Saloman Smith Barney/CitiCorp's investments in particular holdings of their diverse funds. Will some investigative reporter finally start sniffing around the smoking weapons contracts? How about the APPEARANCE of insider trading on the Capito's military/industrial holdings? Could Pentagon pillow talk really be padding the pair's portfolio? Isn't it at least a little unsavory that she's continually voted to place Americans in harm's way by staunchly supporting Bush's Iraqmire adventure while simultaneously blocking ovesight of Iraq defense contracts?
Posted by: Wells | May 9, 2006 10:06 AM
I'm not sure I agree with the democratic landslide theory everyone is talking about (the Dem's always seem to find a way to screw things up like in 2002, 2003, and 2004, but that might just be Terry McAuliffe fault), but I agree with Wells, Byrd is safe.
1) WV is a Dem state. Four out of five member of their congressional team are Democrats.
2) Half the state is named after Byrd. Generally, when they start making memorials to you when you are still alive, it's a sign that you're untouchable.
3) The state would go bankrupt. Let's face it, Byrd and Stevens (R-AK) are the kings of pork. Byrd has almost single handily kept the state alive since the coal industry collapsed by bringing federal dollars into the state. Everyone knows the eat because of Byrd. And these people will like to keep eating. They aren't going to get rid of their gravy train.
4) He's an institution. Byrd has been in the Senate longer than most of his voters have been alive. The day he steps down or dies will be a day of mourning. And the following day, his birthday will become a state holiday.
Posted by: | May 9, 2006 10:59 AM
Mostly sunny and mid 70's across West Virginia.
Lower 70's and scattered T-Storms for Nebraska. Expected turnout is 32% according to Nebraska state officials.
Posted by: RMill | May 9, 2006 11:24 AM
For those who would think that age is going to make a difference we have the sterling example of Strom Thurmond to look back on. His record stands as the longest serving (48 years) and oldest (100 years) Senator in US history. He retired in January 2003 and died in June 2003. And even though he was clearly doddering at the end and was never the orator and presence in the Senate that Byrd was/is, the "fine voters of SC" would have elected him again had he decided to run.
Posted by: Judge C. Crater | May 9, 2006 11:47 AM
Don't count out Mike Callaghan, a former prosecutor and party chairman, who is a dogged competitor and enthusiastic candidate. While the conventional wisdom of The Fix likes the chances of Rep. Capito, it would be hard to find many West Virginians who "love" Rep. Capito. Moreover, Callaghan has essentially been running for this race since 2004. However, his relationship with the everpopular Governor Manchin has been less than amiable; Callaghan could use the governor's strong endorsement. Nevertheless, given the Sago mine disaster, the sagging poll numbers of the President, and continuing struggle of Iraq, I would place a bet on Callaghan in a tight race.
[As an aside to football crazy Nebraska, don't forget Fix fans that WVU is going to win the national championship next year.]
Posted by: Mountaineer Democrat | May 9, 2006 12:05 PM
First) Safety and lack enforcement in the coal mines will also figure into republican troubles in WV. I have been watching this issue to see if WV voters were going to blame the Governor or the federal governmant kind of like what happened after Hurricane Katrina. Well in the latest Survey USA poll WV Goverenor Manchin has the second highest approval in the nation of all the governors. So it is pretty obvious WV voters blame the federal government. Second ) A Run-the-mill political analyst will say what Chris said "Whoever wins will have little chance (barring a Democratic tidal wave) against Capito, who has held the seat since 2000. President Bush won the district by 15 points in 2004." A Smart Political Analyst will tell you that Bush numbers in district in 2004 are moot. What Bush approval numbers in the district TODAY are relevant. Yesterday USA Today released a poll that showed Bush approval at 31% which is three point away from Nixon's 28% before he resigned. Now, in Nixon 6th year the democrats won in congress by huge majorities. It did not matter that Nixon had won reelection two years previously in a landslide. You can NOT base how a district will turn or sway by how they voted for a President 2 or 4 or 6 yrs ago. You have base it on what they think of the President TODAY in the current and present reality.
Posted by: Wells | May 9, 2006 12:20 PM
Wells I like the comparisson to Nixon, and I agree that how much Bush won by a year ago is irrelavent. Also Judge is right. The folks of West Virgina would vote Byrd to the Senate if he were Dead.
Mountaneer by the way what championship are you talking about, women's field hockey? Because if it is football you need to send me whatever you are smoking.
Posted by: Andy R | May 9, 2006 01:05 PM
Raese has been trailing in every poll taken in WV in this Republican primary ever since he announced he was running.
He is wildly unpopular and will likely lose todays primary.
But, even if he gets through the primary on the basis of his offensive Reagan TV ads, he will lose to Byrd because he is a very just not the type of person with any chance of replacing Byrd in the minds of the voters.
I guess you are just getting your info on the race from the way, waaay out of touch with WV Washington Insider establishment... but I guess you gotta get what you can and go with what you got...
Posted by: Matt | May 9, 2006 04:22 PM
Andy R., below is the answer to your request. Perhaps you may even choose to read it.
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- Brady Campbell is the new Mountaineer. Next fall, he'll be the school mascot -- the guy wearing the buckskin outfit and firing the rifle on the sidelines at West Virginia football games. He's the latter-day Daniel Boone charged with bolstering school spirit.
Campbell won an exhaustive competition over dozens of rivals to be the Mountaineer. He advanced through rounds of interviews, performed during a home basketball game and grew a thick, reddish-brown beard. He'll look good in a coonskin cap.
Pat White and WVU's Sugar Bowl win last season raised expectations for 2007. Last week, Campbell was enjoying his final few days as a normal college student before assuming the responsibility of Mountaineerness. Clutching a Budweiser in each hand at Bent Willy's, a hot college bar, Campbell announced that he had just two days of drinking left in his college career. Then he was giving up alcohol in order to be a dignified, sober-eyed mascot.
(Clearly, he's the wrong guy to ever be the Tree at Stanford.)
But even if Brady Campbell is giving up liquor, he's still drinking the Kool-Aid when it comes to West Virginia football in 2006. He's seen the schedule, he's seen the returning talent and he's joined me in predicting that a whole lot of couches will be kindling this fall in Morgantown.
"Expectations are for us to go undefeated," Campbell said.
Go tell it on the mountain. And across the fruited plain, for that matter. I'm not alone in picking these guys No. 1.
They're talking national championship at West Virginia -- and not just in the Morgantown bars. They're talking it on the practice field.
"National champs on three!" coach Rich Rodriguez says when he brings his team together at the end of each spring practice.
"National champs!" the players respond.
So they're not hiding from the buzz. Not embracing it by any means -- Rodriguez's humble-and-hungry counterstrike mantra is pervasive -- but not hiding from it, either. That's why the end-of-practice chant is what it is.
"It's in our thought process," quarterback Pat White said of the national title. "We want to work like the best, prepare like the best, do everything the best."
Said White's spread-offense running mate, Steve Slaton: "We're very aware of it. It's a thing in the back of our mind. We have the ability and the talent, and if we keep getting better day by day, I don't think there's anybody who can stop us."
To win it all, the Mountaineers must run through the brick wall of history, both ancient and recent.
Consider the ancient: West Virginia has been playing football for 113 years and has won 642 games without winning a national championship. There isn't even a sketchy power-rating title from a bygone era to claim.
"We're very aware of it. It's a thing in the back of our mind. We have the ability and the talent, and if we keep getting better day by day, I don't think there's anybody who can stop us." Steve Slaton on WVU's title quest In the annals of the sport, no Division I-A school has more victories without a title. West Virginia qualifies as the best empty-trophy-case program in America. But now, armed with a user-friendly schedule (seven home games, with a visit to Louisville Nov. 2 looking like the showdown game) and scads of returning players from a stunning 11-1 2005 season, the Mountaineers are the buzz team in college football.
But now consider the recent: West Virginia was college football's buzz team in 2004 and bombed. Top 10 preseason projections turned into an 8-4 buzz kill, as individual agendas sabotaged team goals.
Wide receiver Chris Henry was an all-world cancer, and the NFL rep of cornerback Adam "Pac-Man" Jones leads you to believe that he wasn't the ideal leader in Morgantown, either. With those two guys as the most talented players on that 2004 West Virginia team, the mission was doomed.
"We've been through that, when we had high expectations and failed," Playboy All-America guard Dan Mozes said. "Some guys thought more about the next level than about the team. That's not going to be a problem with this team."
To that end, you have a hard time getting the senior class to talk about anything other than West Virginia's opening opponent: hated in-state rival Marshall. It should be a talent mismatch, but consider the depth of this rivalry: the Thundering Herd's abysmal basketball team upset the Sweet 16-bound Mountaineers each of the past two seasons.
So Mozes and fellow senior offensive lineman Jeremy Sheffey will play the bad cop roles if they see the focus blurring or craniums inflating over the summer. Gladly.
"I'm kind of a jerk," Sheffey said. "I've said stuff to certain guys in the past who got out of hand. I'm not above getting in confrontations in practice. That's kind of my role.
"So I can be a jerk to guys who get too big a head. I don't take that very well. Those guys don't have my respect."
West Virginia had almost nobody's respect going into last season, but low expectations combined with a high level of cohesion to produce a significant surprise. All the talk in the Big East last year was Louisville, but the Mountaineers quietly coalesced off-radar around a powerful offensive line, a young-but-flush backfield and a coach who absolutely knows what he's doing.
Two moments captured the magic of the season: a miracle rally against Louisville and a preposterously gutsy fake punt against Georgia.
West Virginia was down 17 points in the fourth quarter to the Cardinals when starting quarterback Adam Bednarik went down with a foot sprain. It might have been the most fortuitous injury in program history. In came White, and from that moment on Bednarik was effectively Wally Pipped.
White led the Mountaineers to touchdowns on their last six possessions, three of them in overtime, for a 46-44 victory. Slaton officially launched his star that game as well, scoring a school-record six touchdowns.
"The switch just flipped, right there," Sheffey said. "Literally all of a sudden, the motor got in sync. You hear about people clicking? That's what happened.
"When things started going right with us, they stayed going right. It's that snowball effect. When it all comes together, it's a beautiful thing."
The snowball turned into an avalanche, and West Virginia's smashmouth offense turned unstoppable. The Mountaineers averaged 40 points per game the last half of the season, mercilessly jamming the ball down defenses' throats with the following game plan: we're gonna run, try and stop us.
"You can feel the confidence in the huddle," Sheffey said. "Third and 8? Let's run it. [Let's run] Iso. It didn't matter what he called, it was going to work."
Thing is, that snowball effect went underappreciated nationally. The Louisville breakthrough happened virtually simultaneously with the riveting drama of USC-Notre Dame, so nobody saw it. The four opponents that followed were unranked Big East teams.
Few analysts gave West Virginia a shot against Georgia, especially playing a displaced Sugar Bowl in the Georgia Dome.
Steve Slaton rushed for 17 TDs in 2005. They started taking the Mountaineers more seriously when the score was 28-0.
"I'm telling you, I stood on the sidelines talking to coach [Calvin] Magee on the headphones early in the game," Rodriguez recalled. "I said, 'I think we're shocking them a little bit right now.'"
Georgia overcame its shock to close within 38-35 with five minutes left, but it never got the ball back. That's because Rodriguez called a fake punt near midfield on fourth and 6, spreading players sideline to sideline on the line of scrimmage and running punter Phil Brady for 10 yards up the gut.
It was an insanely brilliant call.
Rodriguez said they had Georgia positioned for the fake three times in the game, but the first two were fourth and 14 and fourth and 18, respectively. At fourth and 6, with the game on the line, Rodriguez put the fake on.
And stuck his neck out.
"I said on the headphones, 'Do we got it? Hello? Hello? Anybody there?'" the coach said, laughing. It's likely an apocryphal story, but there's little doubt that Rodriguez put himself out on a limb with the call.
Now he's got himself out on a limb again, with the state expecting 12-0 and a Fiesta Bowl berth. Even the Mountaineer is calling for it -- and you hate to irritate a man who brings a rifle to the stadium.
Pat Forde is a senior writer for ESPN.com. He can be reached at ESPN4D@aol.com.
Posted by: Mountaineer Democrat | May 9, 2006 05:52 PM
I should point out that WV-02 is less Republican than IL-08 (Melissa Bean's seat). But regardless, if there's one state where looking at presidential voting patterns is a poor predictor of state and local results, it's West Virginia.
Allan Mollohan's seat, for instance, is more Republican than Capito's. And the Governor is a Dem, as are both Senators.
Posted by: DavidNYC | May 9, 2006 09:49 PM
Posted by: John delly | May 9, 2006 10:43 PM
Sen. Byrd should break Thurmond's 48 year record of Senate service this year. Ted Kennedy is only 4 years behind him, and 15 years younger.
Does anyone have links to results from tonight's primaries?
Posted by: Sandwich Repairman | May 9, 2006 10:55 PM
Since Hillary is a militarist, it shouldn't be too hard for Fox to embrace her.
If this really is in the cards, who will replace Karl Rove as the hidden hand behind Fox's talking points?
Posted by: RWMann | May 10, 2006 12:20 PM
.Raese won the primary Big time. If I were a Byrd supporter I would be very ,very worried. Raese barely lost to Rockefellar in 84. He has the ability to self finance his own campaign.People in WV are starting to question the health issue of Byrd
Posted by: T Ferguson from WV | May 10, 2006 09:48 PM
We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features.
User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.
|
Chris Cillizza joins washingtonpost.com as the author of a new politics blog called The Fix. Cillizza will provide daily posts on a range of political topics, from the race for control of Congress in 2006 to scrutinizing the 2008 presidential contenders.
| 141.818182 | 0.704545 | 1.022727 |
high
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801699.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801699.html
|
ABC Spreads The Germ of A Disturbing 'Bird Flu'
|
2006050919
|
ABC's "Fatal Contact: Bird Flu in America" is just what the doctor ordered -- Dr. Frankenstein, that is. Who else would find it entertaining to watch 25 million people drop dead as the result of a fanciful worldwide plague?
No one can say the film, airing tonight on Channel 7, isn't topical. The producers hired a big-time expert on monstrous disease to make sure its vision of a global nightmare is plausible. A disclaimer notes, "This film is a fictional examination of the question, 'What if?,' " but the docudrama style carries an aura of awful, if not awesome, authority.
It's a question that isn't just being asked by alarmist TV movies. According to published reports, a White House study on pandemic flu envisions a nation overtaken by "social and economic chaos" if the bird-flu virus should mutate into an influenza that can be passed from human to human and country to country.
Not overlooking practical aspects, The Washington Post says the report not only "assumes" as many as 2 million dead in the United States alone, but also a 40 percent rate of "workforce absenteeism." Good heavens! Maybe preparedness demands that we all start staying home, oh, let's say, this morning. Just to be on the safe side.
"Fatal Contact" argues persuasively that mass suffering, death and, of course, workforce absenteeism are anything but unimaginable; after all, the producers imagined them and put them on film. ABC then irresponsibly slotted the frightening movie at 8, early enough to scare the kiddies right out of their wits.
The film opens with a poultry roundup in Guangdong, China. Workers in protective garb destroy dozens of the little cluckers in the hopes of preventing the spread of whatever they've got. From there, the movie hops all over the world, with stops in Hong Kong, New York, Washington, Atlanta and Angola -- except that all those places are really either New Zealand or Australia, where "Fatal" was filmed.
In Richmond, a husband returning from a trip abroad hugs his wife. Uh-oh! Shouldn't-a done that! He's spreading a germ that we've seen travel via everything from handshake to cough to smooch to martini olive -- all these contacts and many others eventually arranged into a checkerboard screen filled with very infectious images.
The poor chap in Richmond, unaware he's ill, goes to his son's Little League game and shakes hands with a friend. He might as well have shot the guy in the head, at least according to the movie's depiction of the flu's contagiousness. And as the illness spreads, so do rioting, looting, panic and hysteria.
At least it won't be dull.
Every movie about a medical crisis has to have a medical hero -- if possible, a superwoman in a white smock and stern spectacles who tries to straighten out all the misguided, mixed-up men. In "Fatal Contact" it's Joely Richardson ("Nip/Tuck") as Dr. Iris Varnack, an official of the Epidemic Intelligence Service. She logs many a mile chasing chicken flu and arguing with those so blind (not literally) they cannot see -- mostly other medical authorities and pesky politicians.
Singled out as particularly wrongheaded is Mike Newsome, the (fictitious) governor of Virginia, played with stern stubbornness by Scott Cohen. Newsome decides that the best prevention is to quarantine everybody in the state, and he rushes his own family and staff to a germ-proof shelter. It's important, he explains, that there be "continuity of leadership" if the outbreak reaches the pandemic level.
One can see his point. Heaven knows people wouldn't know what to do without bureaucrats to guide them.
|
ABC's "Fatal Contact: Bird Flu in America" is just what the doctor ordered -- Dr. Frankenstein, that is. Who else would find it entertaining to watch 25 million people drop dead as the result of a fanciful worldwide plague?
| 16.152174 | 1 | 46 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801718.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801718.html
|
An Arts Buffet That Sticks to the Ribs
|
2006050919
|
The pint-size Astaire-and-Rogers teams from "Mad Hot Ballroom" got the more tumultuous ovation, but Sondheim freaks found other reasons to exult Sunday night at the Kennedy Center's 35th-anniversary gala: a reunion of Angela Lansbury and George Hearn, re-creating one of the most extraordinary moments the composer has given the American musical.
On the stage of the Concert Hall, Lansbury and Hearn sang "A Little Priest," the wit- and blood-infused refreshment that delivers audiences captivatingly to the intermission of Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street." It was on a Broadway stage in 1979 that Lansbury and Len Cariou, as the ghoulishly pragmatic Mrs. Lovett and the pathologically intense Sweeney, unveiled the song. Hearn would succeed Cariou in the role, and his version with Lansbury would just as entertainingly get at the number's music-hall derangement, its brilliant melding of the urges to tickle human ribs -- and devour them.
To watch again as Lansbury, 80, and Hearn, 71, elegantly worked their way through Sondheim's precision-guided puns and rhymes was, for any Sondheimiac, sheer bliss. They reunited for "A Little Priest" a year ago, at the "Wall to Wall" Sondheim festival in Manhattan, a 12-hour concert in honor of the composer's 75th birthday. Reports from that event described Lansbury's delivery as tentative. On Sunday, however, few rough edges were detectable in the shortened version they sang. Applying a pair of red bows to her hair -- in place of Mrs. Lovett's signature buns -- Lansbury was playfully in her element as the girlish instigator of the plan to turn cannibalism into a cash business.
The gala itself, of course, is in large measure about cash, and the amount raised Sunday for the Kennedy Center's education programs -- $2.8 million, the benefit's record -- was as impressive as the starry lineup.
As conceived and directed by Marvin Hamlisch, the 95-minute production was not without moments of variety-show kitsch. A finale in which bass-baritone Greer Grimsley sang "The Impossible Dream" as a pair of aerialists spun on rivers of fabric overhead had everything you'd find on the Strip except the two-drink minimum.
The hour and a half leading up to this anticlimactic climax, however, unfolded as a satisfying smorgasbord, showcasing top-drawer performers and the institution's mainstream tastes. It's in the nature of such anniversaries that a retrospective quality imbue many of the performances, and this occasion was no exception. Two numbers from "Les Miserables" -- delivered Three Tenors-style by Craig Shulman, J. Mark McVey and Timothy Shew, all of whom have played its leading man, Jean Valjean -- attested to the evening's efforts to keep to the middle of the road.
Judy Collins, silver-maned, sleek and smashing in an ink-dark evening gown, sang her hugely successful cover of Sondheim's "Send in the Clowns," from "A Little Night Music." Soprano Harolyn Blackwell, shoulders bared fetchingly in a strapless gown, lent a subtle emotionalism to "My Joe," a song she performed in the center's revival of "Carmen Jones" in 2002. Violinist Sarah Chang was recruited for a Max Bruch violin concerto with the National Symphony Orchestra Pops, under Hamlisch's baton, and the quicksilver tap virtuoso Savion Glover gave a scorching exhibition of a style that leaves the impression his feet are affixed to drumsticks.
The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, imported in a nod to post-Katrina New Orleans, provided an infectious "When the Saints Go Marching In." But an even more inspirational interlude involved the evening's youngest performers: 24 New York public school children who were featured in the delightful 2005 documentary "Mad Hot Ballroom," about a city program that teaches ballroom dancing to 11-year-olds. In completely endearing fashion, each of the dozen couples -- boys in black shirts and slacks and red bow ties, girls in red skirts -- tangoed and waltzed and merengued. The crowd-pleasing sequence proved a most seductive argument for arts in the schools.
Lansbury and Hearn were the preceding act, and a bit of skillful narration might have made the significance of their re-teaming clearer to the Concert Hall audience. (So, too with the context of the number; although performed at the center in 2002 as part of the Sondheim Celebration, "Sweeney Todd" is not exactly on a par in the public imagination with "The Sound of Music.")
As with so many of Sondheim's subjects, "Sweeney Todd" is an unlikely one for a musical. It's a tale of irredeemable darkness, about an appetite for revenge that consumes everything, even the avenger. "A Little Priest" cements the alliance of two mad creatures, one intent on killing everything in his path, the other, in binding herself to a killing machine -- and making a living off the leftovers. The song itself is a listing by occupation of all the kinds of people they'll kill and bake into meat pies. Its hilarious, compulsive rhyming is as cathartically funny as the topic is stomach-churning. As Sweeney says: "The history of the world, my sweet/Is who gets eaten and who gets to eat."
Both actors were in fine voice in the Concert Hall. Their timing was spot-on, too. "A Little Priest" works best when the singers know how to underline but not overwork the punning, and on that score, neither Hearn nor Lansbury seemed to need a refresher course. The Kennedy Center is planning a reunion concert next year of its popular 2002 production with Brian Stokes Mitchell and Christine Baranski. On the evidence of Sunday's "A Little Priest," the stars of "Sweeney's" early days might warrant an event all their own.
|
The pint-size Astaire-and-Rogers teams from "Mad Hot Ballroom" got the more tumultuous ovation, but Sondheim freaks found other reasons to exult Sunday night at the Kennedy Center's 35th-anniversary gala: a reunion of Angela Lansbury and George Hearn, re-creating one of the most extraordinary...
| 18.966667 | 0.983333 | 58.016667 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/05/DI2006050501225.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/05/DI2006050501225.html
|
Book World Live
|
2006050919
|
Bowden skillfully evokes the era and the ordeal, putting a human face on the yellow ribbons. And he describes in detail President Carter's vacillations, the failed rescue attempts, and the charlatans and apologists who acted as private intermediaries to seek the hostages' release (and their own photo ops). -- Review: Tehran Rising (May 7).
Author Mark Bowden was online Tuesday, May 2, at 2 ET to field questions and comments about his new book, "Guests of the Ayatollah," which examines the Iran hostage crisis of 1979-81.
Mark Bowden is a journalist and the author of several books, including "Black Hawk Down" and "Killing Pablo. " He is a national correspondent for The Atlantic Monthly.
Join Book World Live each Tuesday at 3 p.m. ET for a discussion based on a story or review in each Sunday's Book World section.
Philadelphia, Pa.: I hate to say this, but there were rumors about the unsucessful attempt to rescue the hostages around the University of Pennsylvania campus the day before it happened as some involved told family members which included students. That always bothered me, as there were Iranians on campus. I have no knowledge that anyone could have purposedly or even inadvertenly tipped off anything. Yet, it tells me that the mission was not kept as secret as it should have. As I guess reporters learn there are few secrets in Washington, is this a problem within the military as well?
Mark Bowden: The one thing the mission accomplished was to achieve complete surprise. The Iranians didn't even know it had happened, despite the fireworks in the desert, until Jimmy Carter announced the mission's failure in the White House.
San Diego, Calif: Mr. Bowden,Sorry, no question just a statement. I would like to thank you for you providing to the public well written and factual accounts of the Somalia , Pablo, and Desert One missions. Your ability to represent these complicated operations in an un-biased, respectful, and introspective maner is rare. The type of missions you have written about, have many moving parts and ramifications . You have done the country a great service by putting it all out there and allowing the public to anaylze these actions for themselves. As a former active duty member stationed at Dam Neck, Va, I thank you.
Mark Bowden: Thank you, for your service and your compliment.
Harrisburg, Pa.: What are your thoughts on the rescue mission? In retrospect, it is easy to pinpoint the failure as they should have sent one more helicopter. Yet, at the time, the decision was to keep the number of helicopters at a minimum to avoid detection. Without having known the bad result in advance, do you think that was a wise gamble, or was it being too cautious?
Mark Bowden: As I said earlier, I do think the mission was so complicated it had only a very small chance of success. I think all of the decisions about the force were carefully weighed to increase that small chance ... to no avail.
West Orange, NJ: Did Iran's current president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, lead or collaborate with the hostage takers in 1979? Did any others who are now prominent in Iran's government?
How would Iranian nukes put the US are more risk than Chinese, Russian, or Pakistani weapons? Is is worth a war to stop them? Would a war stop them?
Is Iraq in 2006 better or worse than Somalia in 1991? Did US withdrawal from Somalia inspire al Qaeda? Would US witdrawal from Iraq do the same?
Would a US intervention in Darfur do any good or be another quagmire?
Did Porter Goss strenghen or castrate the CIA's Iranian intelligence capability?
Have US actions in the Mideast since 9/11 helped or harmed US security?
Mark Bowden: Yes, as I explain in the book, Ahmadinejad was one of the five students who made up the group "Strengthen the Unity," which came up with the idea to seize an embassy. He originally preferred taking the Soviet embassy, but was voted down, and has said that he supported the US embassy takeover after the Imam approved it -- which happened the day of the takeover. Some of the former hostages remember him. A number of the key hostage takers are now prominent Iranian government figures, including Habibullah Bitaraf, the energy minister, and Hossein Sheik al-Eslam, the chief hostage interrogator, who is now a member of the Majlis (or parliament). Nilufar (Massoumeh) Ebtekar is a vice preisdent; she was the hostage-takers spokesperson and took part in numerous interrogations as a translator.
I would say that Iran poses a bigger threat because it is a government that remains outspokenly hostile to the United States, has a president who has advocated the destruction of Israel, and that has ties with Islamist terrorist organizations, like Hezbollah. It is a country government by Islamist extremists. Kim Jung Il is an isolated figure whose philosophies are not about to inspire a global anti-American, anti-western movement, China is a major and often responsible world power with direct diplomatic ties to the US, and Pakistan, under its present leadership, is an ally. Nuclear weapons in all of these countries is worrisome, but Iran clearly is the most threatening.
Iraq, while deeply troubled, is much better off than Somalia in 1991, where an estimated million people starved to death, and nearly than many were on the way to that fate. Al Qaeda was already going strong when the US withdrew from Somalia, although I think our retreat heartened them and presented them with an opportunity. If the US were to withdraw from Iraq noqw, my guess is that the country would desolve into civil war, and become a breeding ground for more jihadism.
As for Darfur, I don't know, but the world needs to act if it is serious about preventing genocide. I don't know much about Goss, and to your last question I think the verdict is still out. Overall, I think the pursuit of Islamiost terrorists since 2001 has diminished their capabilities worldwide.
Phoenix, Ariz: Just a comment...Black Hawk Downis my favorite movie. It was important that you captured this event in the immediate aftermath, rather than 20 years later when there is a tendency toward revisionism. It was such an important story to tell. I sent a Christmas care package to a Marine Corps unit stationed in Iraq, and I included copies of Black Hawk Down (it's on their reading list). My political beliefs are slightly left of center, so you've reached not just the hard-core right wing Republicans. I'll pick up the new book as well. I was a 14-year-old high school student when the hostages were taken in November 1979, and it was my first realization that the world was much bigger than my own back yard.
Given your familiarity with and expertise in military operations, how would you assess the plan to rescue the hostages? Might it have succeeded but for the sand storm and accident at Desert One? Thanks and keep up the great work.
Mark Bowden: I am hardly an expert on anything military, but to my untrained eye I would have to say that the mission was so complicated, and depended on so many things going right, that it is doubtful it would have succeeded. I suspect there would have been a great deal of bloodshed. It was not, however, a suicide mission. It had a chance.
Reston, Va: Mr. Bowden: What was your opinion of the movie "Black Hawk Down"?
Mark Bowden: I thought Ridley Scott and Jerry Bruckheimer did a magnificent job of adapting the book to film, but since I helped with the adaptation I am not an entirely objective critic. The public and the Academy seemed to have liked it a lot!
Herndon, Va: Mr. Bowden: I haven't read your latest book, but if it's half as good as "Black Hawk Down," I know it will be excellent! I'm in the "foreign service community" and know a few of the hostages. To my inexpert eye they seem to have totally recovered. Did you discover any long-range after effects?
Mark Bowden: Thanks! Most of the hostages have gotten on with their lives, but some remain haunted by their experience. A few still did not want to talk about it with me. Most remain very interested in what is going on in Iran today, and some still would like to recover damages for their ordeal.
Chantilly, Va: Thank you for writing this book. It's a good time to finally come to terms with what happened.
Sincerely,A brother of one of the hostages.
Raleigh, NC: I enjoy your work in The Atlantic and loved "Cops on the Take" from Road Work. I haven't read your new book, but I plan to. From what I've read (even in some of your work), it seems like there is a large portion of the population in Iran that embraces American culture and has a much different take on the United States than those in power. Is this something that has evolved in the last decade or so, after the Iran/Iraq war? Or was this a feeling that existed (to some degree) among the general populace even in the years immediately following the revolution?
Mark Bowden: Thanks. There have long been warm feelings for the United States among people in Iran. Even at its height in 1979, there were those who preferred maintaining close ties with America. I think most Iranians today favor renewed ties with the US and real democracy in their country.
Virginia: Does your book update whatever happened to the 52 hostages now?
Mark Bowden: Yes! In the Epilogue.
I was too young at the time to understand the geopolitical issues surrounding the seizure of our embassy and what seems to be our pusillanimous response to it.
I noted in your op-ed last week that the Carter Administration deserves a little more slack in the way it dealt with the crisis.
Was going to war against Iran a seriously considered option, to your knowledge, and what were the reasons not to do it?
And with almost three decades of hindsight, would we make a different choice were some something similar to happen in the present day?
Mark Bowden: Good questions. I think Carter's approach was to try not to make the hostage-taking erupt into something bigger than it was. At the outset, there was hope that responsible parties in Iran would step in and right the matter themselves -- these were, after all, just a group of Islamist college students. We were in the Cold War at the time, and there was concern that going to war against Iran might bright the Soviets in on their side, which could have led to a wide regional conflict and the terrible potential of a nuclear exchange.
Today, the president would have a much wider variety of military options than Carter had in 1979, and without the shadow of the Cold War, we could afford to respond more aggressively if that seemed warranted. Carter was also admirably concerned with getting the hostages home safely.
Burlington, Vt: I am old fashioned enough to believe that an attack on one's foreign embassy is a literal attack one's nation. Have you done the though experiment to ask how things would have turned out had the United States threatened Iran with major military action if the hostages were not returned unharmed? How might it have affected the calculations of terrorist organizations subsequently?
Mark Bowden: I have, and given the revolutionary fervor in Iran at the time, not to mention the tendency to celebrate martyrdom, I suspect they would have called our bluff, and many, many more people who have enjoyed a quarter century of life would have been dead long ago -- including the hostages.
Reading, Mass: Was Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad a participant in the Iran hostage crisis?
Mark Bowden: Yes. See above.
Washington, DC: In Air Force magazine, the USAF helicopter pilot, Kyle, blamed the USMC pilots. And the Army pilots blame both services. Finally JSOC and the 16th SOAR were set up. We're pretty much a reactive country, than pro-active.
Mark Bowden: The level of bitterness persists even after all these years, and I suppose we should not be surprised..
Maryland: Hello. You wrote the Imam approved it but I thought the Ayatollah opposed the embassy takeover?
Mark Bowden: The Imam approved the takeover after the fact. I refer you to the first chapter of my book!
Virginia: Will your new book become a movie? You can play one of the hostages! And what is your next book project?
Mark Bowden: The movie right to "GA" were purchased by Scott Rudin, so it has a better chance than many books of becoming a movie. We'll see. I think I'll stay behind the cameras.
Washington, DC: Did you interview any Iranians in Iran? What about the Shad's son in VA?
Mark Bowden: I interviewed many Iranians on my trips to that country. You will see their points of view reflected throughout the book.
Washington, DC: I grew up in Bethesda and will always remember Penny Laingen's strong will and efforts on the issue. I lost touch with her son 25 years ago, but his mom was a really interesting individual.
Mark Bowden: She was, and so she remains. Penne's efforts went far beyond those I describe in "GA."
Vancouver BC: Regarding Black Hawk Down...
WHY would you write a book that makes a hero out of a sodomite pedophile rapist?
Mark Bowden: If you are referring to Stebbins, the actions described in the book took place years before what you are talking about, and were true.
Maryland: I read Charlie Beckwith's book the Delta Force and he wrote that we as Americans, have little understanding of Iran despite being there for a long time. Do you think we Americans understand foreign relations?
Mark Bowden: We need to get better at it. Our focus in the Cold War was exceedingly narrow, and smaller countries' interests and needs were considered important insofar as they effected the larger conflict. That's no longer the case.
Virginia: Why the title Guests of the Ayatollah?
Mark Bowden: Because, as the book makes clear, the Iranian captors insisted that their hostages were not hostages, but "guests." It highlights two very different ways of seeing the same thing.
Virginia: How did you visit Iran? I thought U.S. citzens cannot visit. And did you interview that crazz female hostage taker?
Mark Bowden: Journalists have had some success getting visas to report in Iran for limited periods. After waiting for many months to obtain a ten-day visa through ordinary channels (Iran's consulate at the UN in New York), I eventually gave up and paid a bribe. All three of our trips to Iran were limited by the authorirites to ten days. I did interview Ebtekar. If you catch the documentary version of the story, which will air on the Discovery-Times channel in early June, you will see some of that interview. She is very annoying.
You've done some fantastic work in bringing what our soldiers and airmen experience in the field to the rest of us. I'm eagerly looking forward to reading this as well (I've gone through the excerpt in the Atlantic Monthly). Any thoughts as to what your next work may be?
Mark Bowden: Lots of ideas, but I haven't started working on anything yet. Keep your eyes on The Atlantic. Whatever I do will show up there first. At the moment I am writing a screenplay for Imagine Entertainment about "Rendition."
Virginia: Were the hostages POW? Is there a parelled butween Guanmatolo, Cuba and the Iranian hostages?
Mark Bowden: Not really, because we were not at war with Iran. They were diplomats, and there was no justification for their being held. Also, the "Students Following the Imam's Line" were private citizens, not the government of Iran, so the episode probably better fits the definition of a kidnapping.
Washington, DC: Will you have the book translated in Farsi and post it on your web site for all Iranians to read? How about a few complimentary copies to like Screaming Mary compliments of the people of the USA?
Mark Bowden: So far we have not had any feelers from Iranian publishers, either in the States or Iran. But I would be delighted. Ebtekar can read it in English. Her English is as fluent as mine.
During your research for this project, what struck you as most compelling or interesting?
Mark Bowden: I guess learning more about Iran. One of the reasons I choose these stories set in foreign lands is that I relish the opportunity to travel and learn. I gained a much better appreciation of why Iranians, particularly in 1979, were so angry with the United States.
Washington, D.C.: As an American of Iranian descent who was born several years after the hostage crisis, I often wonder what would have happened in US-Iran relations if the hostage crisis had never occurred. Do you think the ayatollahs would have been out of power long ago? Or were the two things not connected?
I haven't read your book yet, but I hope to soon!
Mark Bowden: Who knows? As I tried to make clear in the book, the embassy takeover was the event that leveraged the mullahs fully into power. Without it, it was entirely possible that a more moderate, secular government would have formed, and given that the US was eager to resume ties, good relations might have resumed immediately.
washingtonpost.com: Thanks to Mark Bowden and to all who participated.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Journalist Mark Bowden fields questions and comments about his book, "Guests of the Ayatollah," which examines the Iran hostage crisis of 1979-81.
| 122.758621 | 0.965517 | 14.827586 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900031.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/09/AR2006050900031.html
|
Microsoft Preps New Version of Windows CE
|
2006050919
|
Users can expect to see products based on both systems in 2007, Microsoft says.
Microsoft is trying to conquer the growing market for high-end cell phones while keeping alive opportunities for Windows CE, a decade-old technology that the company has long pushed for small electronic devices. CE is used in such disparate devices as gas station pumps and TV recorders.
Analysts say the market has a lot of potential, although Microsoft has hard work ahead.
"The company's historically about what? Operating systems. And operating systems are used by more and more classes of devices," said Joe Wilcox, an analyst with Jupiter Research.
For now, Microsoft's mobile and embedded devices unit represents a tiny chunk of its overall revenue, just $89 million of its $10.9 billion total sales during the last quarter. The unit has not been consistently profitable, losing $14 million in the most recent quarter.
By comparison, the unit that includes Windows for PCs earned $2.5 billion in the quarter. A new version of Windows, Vista, is expected to be available for consumers early next year, missing the original 2006 goal.
Microsoft has helped device makers market an array of so-called "smart phones," the broad term for phones that can do things such as check e-mail and keep track of appointments.
In a major coup last year, Microsoft struck a deal with Palm Inc. to launch a Windows-based version of the Treo smart phone, after years of battling against the traditionally dominant Palm operating system for handheld devices. The deal came after Palm had spun off its software division.
But now, Microsoft is facing stiff competition from Research In Motion Inc.'s popular BlackBerry, which has built a loyal following for checking e-mail on the go. It also must battle an array of other companies, all seeking to add even more functions to mobile phones.
Microsoft believes it has an edge in that its system is similar to the familiar Windows for PCs, and that Windows Mobile has the potential to offer more functions than some of its rivals.
© 2006 The Associated Press
|
REDMOND, Wash. -- While Microsoft Corp. has been beset by delays in its new operating system for personal computers, developers quietly have been working on a new version of another Windows, this one found in everything from sewing machines to sophisticated cell phones.
| 8.787234 | 0.574468 | 1.042553 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401216.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050401216.html
|
Off the Page
|
2006050919
|
In the afterward to her new book of selected stories, Joyce Carol Oates complains about how hard it was to choose, how painful it was to leave out so many favorites. If it weren't Joyce Carol Oates, this might be hard to imagine: High Lonesome: Selected Stories, 1966-2006, is 662 pages long.
Oates was online Tuesday, May 9 at noon ET to discuss her short stories, as well as her other work.
Oates's pure prolificness is often the first quality that people think of when her work is mentioned. She's written some 20 collections of short stories alone, and about 50 novels or novellas--which doesn't include the mysteries she writes under the name Rosamond Smith.
But when I pick up an Oates book again, I am struck by its careful scrutiny of American life. Her work is both exterior (examining pop culture in Blonde , for example, about Marilyn Monroe) and interior (revealing the thoughts of a teen-age girl). This is especially true of her short stories, which can be both horribly violent and surprisingly intimate at the same time.
Please join us to discuss her short stories, her take on American life, and other topics literary.
Host Carole Burns is a fiction writer with short stories published or upcoming in Washingtonian Magazine and several literary journals. Twice a fellow at The MacDowell Colony, she's at work on a novel.
Carole Burns: Hello booklovers, and welcome to Off the Page. We are fortunate to have Joyce Carol Oates online with us today, and already many questions for her to answer. I am also in Wales today, at the University of Wales Swansea, with a few journalism students and Nigel Jenkins, the poet. Perhaps we'll see a question from Swansea today? But, hello Joyce -- let's get to our questions.
Fairfax, VA: When you first began writing stories, did you think anyone would read them? Did you imagine that high school and college english classes would feature your writings? When you realized it was happening, how did that feel and did it influence how you wrote from that point forward?
Joyce Carol Oates: This is an interesting question because it evokes a kind of retrospective wisdom that I feel people don't have. When we begin as writers, our hopes are very modest. Simply to be published is a very astonishing phenomenon and we tend to be very grateful for any kind of early encouragement. I was extremely fortunate because one of my first stories when I was 19 was published in a national magazine, Mademoiselle. And so I had immediate readership at an unexpectedly young age. I don't really think of an audience when I write because the story in which I'm working is usually, to me, unique, and I have no idea with whom it would be appropriate.
Bombay, India: Dear Ms. Oates,What do you think prevents the short story from getting its due recognition as an art form, and from publishers backing and supporting it commercially? What about writers like you getting together and lobbying hard for this "long-ignored" form to arrive at its due place? An uphill task, no doubt, but one that would constitute a serious contribution to literature. Looking forward to not just your response, but your experience of how readers respond to it.
With gratitude to you and the Post for this splendid opportunity.
Joyce Carol Oates: The history of short stories is very complicated: some of the greatest work of the 20th century have been short story collections, notably James Joyce's Dubliners, Kafka's In the Penal Colony, Ernest Hemingway's In Our Time, and Sherwood Anderson's Winesburg, Ohio, and in the 19th century Edgar Allen Poe's Tales of the Grotesque and Arabesque, and the stories of Chekhov. So there has been a history in which the short story has definitely received its due. Many short story collections in the present time have done very very well, for instance, Flannery O'Connor's collected stories, Issac Singer, John Cheever, and John Updike, and many others have won distinguished awards. So I don't really understand why one would say that the short story has been an underrated form. Finally, literary fiction itself, whether novels or story collections, have become problematic for commercial publishers.
Carole Burns: Several of your stories, such as "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" have been included in many, many anthologies. If you were to select the stories to get that kind of attention, are these the stories you would choose? Why do you suppose that one has gotten so much attention (though I have to admit teaching it, and loving it)?
Joyce Carol Oates: I would probably choose more or less the same stories. Writers tend to favor stories that are complex and experimental, but readers generally respond to stories that focus on characters and plot. So I would resist my own inclinations to choose something more complex than the stories that have been anthologized. I tend to like everything that I do almost equally, because each story is a unique challenge. For instance, James Joyce believed that having written Finnegan's Wake, the most difficult novel in the English language, his next work would be a simple love story. He didn't, unfortunately live to write it.
Rochester, N.Y. : I live in Rochester, N.Y., a place that is obviously near and dear to your heart. What is it that draws you to keep writing about Rochester, as you did in the Tattooed Girl and The Falls, both beautifully written books which I couldn't put down.
Joyce Carol Oates: I'm drawn to write about upstate New York in the way in which a dreamer might have recurring dreams. My childhood and girlhood were passed in upstate New York, In the country north of Buffalo and west of Rochester. So this part of New York state is very familiar to me and, with its economic difficulties, has become emblematic of much of American life. I've only written one novel set in Rochester, The Tattoed Girl.
Athens, Greece: In order to write, someone has to be from early age in a kind of "quarrel with reality." Did you experience such a thing? And, do u believe that, in a sense, a writer is a "tutor of chaos"?
P.S. U have a big follwing in Greece, hope u ll come one day to visit us!
Joyce Carol Oates: Oh, this is a very astute question. It can be said that many human endeavors depend upon a "quarrel" with reality, whether these are scientific or philosophical or political or aesthetic. I think that, like many writers, I'm fascinated by the world that surrounds me, both the human world and the world of nature. I don't know that I have a quarrel with it, but I do see myself as an observer, both admiring and skeptical.
Carole Burns: I'm very interested in your take on American life, the violence that you so often portray. This is obviously part of your role as observer. Can you elaborate on that at all?
Joyce Carol Oates: Writers generally reflect their society and their time. Stendahl spoke of the novel as a mirror moving along a roadway, and this is an excellent image for the realistic novel. It doesn't, of course, reflect the interior of our lives, our psychological and spiritual lives. But another kind of fiction, a more psyhcologically analytical fiction, can express that life. The tradition in which I see myself is that of psychological realism, which attempts to mirror the complex outside world of society, politics, art, domestic life, as well as to interpret it. In my longer novels, especially, I do a fair amount of research, and often I learn much that I didn't realize I did not know, as in my novel The Falls, which takes place in Niagara Falls, about 15 miles from where I grew up, but brought me to a historical knowledge of that city and its region that I had not known.
Memphis, TN: This is not so much a question as it is a salute. Hello, there, Joyce. Joyce Carol Oates is a great American writer. An empire of characters and lives in fiction.
Carole Burns: Why, hello Richard! Richard Bausch was one of the first guests on Off the Page. Here's his discussion from 2003, when his Selected Stories book was published.
Joyce Carol Oates: Richard Bausch is a great writer, especially of short stories. He is also a wonderful friend, to many writers.
Alexandria, VA: I so treasure your work entitled "Blonde". You seem to be "channeling" MM throughout. How did you research the early years? I could hardly put it down. Thank you for sharing your genius and sensitivity.
Joyce Carol Oates: Primarily I did research into the films of Marilyn Monroe that are available, beginning with her earliest movies and moving to her final movie, Misfits. I was so very impressed by the quality of her performances, and also, overall, by their diversity. I read two or three biographies and deliberately did not take very many notes, because I wanted to imagine the astonishing person who was Norma Jean Baker, who became concealed in and eventually lost in the iconic image of "Marilyn Monroe." I felt that "Marilyn Monroe" was a performance by a gifted and sometimes desperate young woman. One of my epigraphs is Jean Paul Sartre's remark that, "genius is not a talent, but a way we behave in desperate circumstances." I thought this applied very poignantly to Norma Jean Baker.
Oak Hill, Virginia: You learned recently that you had Jewish family members. Did learning about your past change, in any way, the way you look at your future?
Joyce Carol Oates: Immediately, I was forced to reevaluate many things that I had somehow either taken for granted or overlooked. My focus has been on the history of my grandmother, who was my father's mother, who was in fact Jewish, descended from German Jews who came to the United States in the 1890s and changed their name in order to assimilate into America. I have found my grandmother, who died 30 years ago, a fascinating and enigmatic person, about whom I have written, notably in a short story called "The Cousins," in my new collection, High Lonesome. The story is fiction, but it derives from a long novel titled The Gravedigger's Daughter, which will be published in 2007, which is about the attempt of a young woman to escape her past and to be assimilated into America. She changes her name, she does an extraordinary, almost magical job of transforming herself, but she loses her soul. This seemed to me a way of addressing the tragedy of losing one's identity.
Carole Burns: Did you know your grandmother?
Joyce Carol Oates: Yes, but nobody knew she was Jewish. My grandmother lived among us without ever having addressed any religious identification and never talking about her background.
Carole Burns: Do you think she lost her soul, or is that bit fiction?
Joyce Carol Oates: I don't know. It just seems to me it couldn't have been a happy experience. It must have been a nightmare for her to become aware, as other Americans did, after the end of World War II, of the Holocaust and to realize that some of her own relatives must certainly have perished in the death camps, but she never spoke of it, not ever.
North Potomac, Maryland: As an aspiring writer, I'm really curious as to what you do to dissolve writer's block. Also, if it's ok to smuggle in two questions, besides the past, do you get a lot of inspiration for writing from the way you live presently?
Joyce Carol Oates: Most writers much of the time experience difficulty with writing first drafts. Everyone will say this. Beginning writers may become overly discouraged by the difficulties that more experienced writers expect. We are often "blocked" for periods of time, but if we work and keep writing and above all keep thinking about the project, almost always a pathway will open to us. Sometimes I feel as if I were on the outside of a hedge, a thicket, and there seems to be no way in, and I keep circling this thicket and finally I will find a way in. It might be very small, but it's a way in, a phrase or a sentence or an image or a character speaking to me, and this will be the beginning of what will not be in fact an easy experience. I will close with an artist Chuck Close, he says: "Amateurs look for inspiration; the rest of us just get up and go to work."
Carole Burns: And that is, I'm afraid, the last question that Joyce can answer today. Thanks so much to Joyce for coming online, and to the many excellent questions we had today (even the ones we didn't get to.) And remember, you can get emails announcing upcoming Off the Page discussion by emailing me, Carole, at offthepage2004@yahoo.com. In July, we will have as our guest Marie Arana, editor of Book World, who will discuss her new novel, Cellophane. I hope to see you then!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Joyce Carol Oates discussed her newest book, High Lonesome: Selected Stories 1966-2006, as well as other literary topics.
| 111.5 | 0.916667 | 2.416667 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/25/DI2006042500745.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/25/DI2006042500745.html
|
Chatological Humor* (UDATED 5.12.06)
|
2006050919
|
* Formerly known as "Funny? You Should Ask ."
Daily Updates: 5.10.06 | 5.11.06 | 5.12.06
Gene Weingarten's controversial humor column, Below the Beltway , appears every Sunday in The Washington Post Magazine. He aspires to someday become a National Treasure, but is currently more of a National Gag Novelty Item, like rubber dog poo.
He is online, at any rate, each Tuesday, to take your questions and abuse.
This week's poll: Men | Women
Weingarten is the author of "The Hypochondriac's Guide to Life. And Death" and co-author of "I'm with Stupid," with feminist scholar Gina Barreca. "Below the Beltway" is now syndicated nationally by The Washington Post Writers Group .
New to Chatological Humor? Read the FAQ .
Today, I am in fear -- genuine fear over the possible repercussions of an arguably insane and irresponsible act I will be perpetrating in this very chat. It has been in the works for months, I have had ample time to prepare, but a case can be made that no preparations could be sufficient and that -- quite literally -- the world might end. When the first atomic bomb was detonated near Los Alamos, N.M., some scientists suspected it might actually set up a chain reaction of fission that would incinerate the planet.
We're dealing with a potentially similar phenomenon here. It would be the electronic equivalent of an atomic bomb; namely, the sudden rush of hundreds of millions of trillions of electrons to one place, at one time, causing (in scientific terms) a suckage of wattage that will induce a global electromagnetic implosion with attendant slimestorms. In case this DOES end the world, please be aware that you are all good people who have lived worthy lives and will no doubt receive whatever rewards are due you according to your individual personal belief systems, and also that, yes, I really do imagine all female chat participants naked, and thanks for the show.
Remember when my old Labrador retriever, Harry S Truman, died last year, and I wrote THIS (scroll up one entry) on the day of his death, and followed it up a week later with THIS (scroll up one entry) eulogy? Remember how readers wrote in weeping at their cubicles around Washington and elsewhere in the country? Remember that a reader then suggested that I write some sort of book about dogs? Remember all that?
Now, on the one hand, I was completely aware that this was a nakedly manipulative idea, one that would turn any writer into an emotions huckster, a sentimentality racketeer, a schmuck of seismic proportions. On the other hand, heh heh, Simon and Schuster was quite interested, actually.
The book will be called "Old Dogs." It will be published in late 2007. It will contain an essay by me about old dogs, and 60 to 75 elegant black-and-white portraits of dogs 10 years old and older, by my partner, Michael Williamson. You will remember Michael as the photographer who joined me in Savoonga, Alaska, for our piece about the Native Americans there. Michael is a brilliant photographer. He's got two Pulitzers, and a love of dogs that equals my own.
Okay, brace for the end of the world. The temblor should begin in the east -- an east wind, such a wind as never blew. It will be cold and bitter, and a good many of us may wither before its blast. But it's God's own wind none the less, and a cleaner, better, stronger land will lie in the sunshine when the storm has cleared.
Today we launch this WEB SITE, (olddogsbook.com) in which we are asking you to send in snapshots of your old dogs. Yes, yes. We know what will happen. Michael and I will sift through all 40 million snaps, select dogs we want to see, and contact their owners. No money is involved (er, for you.) What you get is immortality for your friend.
For logistical reasons, most of the dogs we use will be from the mid-Atlantic region, but Michael will travel farther for the perfect face. You'll also probably see many of the local dogs in a cover spread in The Washington Post magazine.
I received an enormous amount of mail on this column proposing new rhymes for the word "orange," the vast majority of which came from persons with tin ears blandly informing me that "door hinge" rhymes with orange. Only in Liverpool, folks, only in Liverpool. I also had an interesting exchange with an online lexicographer named Grant Barrett, who complained that the only reason people think there is no rhyme for orange is that they are stuck with antiquated, limiting notions of rhyme. Grant contends that it is perfectly acceptable to rhyme from only the final syllable of a word (not, as I and virtually all actual authorities contend, from the final ACCENTED syllable). That means, Grant says, that these are all sorts of rhymes for orange: Grunge, muskellunge, and expunge.
My response is that these things are dastardly almost-rhymes, the equivalent of wearing orange and pink. They clash. Better not to rhyme at all than to assault our ears with those.
The best actual rhyme I received was from an old poem often misattributed to Ogden Nash, but actually written by Willard Espy:
And also this, by Tom Lehrer, which depends on the second pronunciation of "orange":
Eating an orangeWhile making loveMakes for bizarre enj-oyment thereof.
Thanks to Jen for this link, which supports a contention from a previous chat, namely that women are nuts.
And thanks to Matt Davis, who -- referring to yet another "first" disclosed in this chat some weeks ago, discovered this recent example of a canus in the newspapers.
Please take today's poll. I am delighted that there is relatively little agreement among respondents. There are no correct answers, but there are My answers, which are particularly wise. I will disclose them forthwith.
Two weeks have gone by largely uneventfully in the comics. The CPOW is April 30th Doonesbury. The First Runner Up is April 26 Frazz. Honorables to April 29 Speed Bump, April 27 Pickles, April 28th Speed Bump, and April 26th Flying McCoys.
Can anyone tell me what huge humor mistake Borgman and Scott made on the April 30 Sunday Zits?
Anonymous: Hygiene: Boy did you pick a lousy week to take off. For a whole week people have opined on the one area where you are the self-acknowledged authority: was Stephen Colbert funny at the White House Correspondents Dinner? I saw it and laughed many times, but I'm a fan. Sure, some parts of his routine could have been tightened up (like the overly long "audition tape") but he made dirty hand gestures at Justice Scalia and got him to laugh at it. That's got to be worth something. So tell us, objectively and empirically, was he funny or just an insensitive jerk, as so many seem to posit?
Gene Weingarten: I'm glad it's worked out this way, actually. Because you have heard everyone else offer their opinions on whether Colbert was funny, and now you can learn for a fact whether he was.
Stephen Colbert made some serious humor errors in what was at its mean little heart a completely fearless and brilliant presentation. These errors were so serious they undermined its effectiveness and produced what was, in the end, something of a failure. He needed an editor, apparently didn't have one, and it cost him dearly.
His biggest tactical error was in constantly addressing the president, sitting to his right: "This man here..." It made the whole thing seem like a cheap assault, because Bush was defenseless, and just had to sit there with an insincere smile on his face. Cobert could have told the identical jokes (which were mostly ostensibly about himself) without shooting himself in the foot, as he did. Almost everyone in the audience was uncomfortable, for a reason. Journalists tend to have highly developed senses of humor -- but they also have a highly developed sense of fairness.
Colbert's second mistake was technical: He started badly. A big mistake. You want your first few jokes to really work. His first few jokes were wince-inducers, and that cast a pall on a room that really wanted to laugh.
His third mistake was the audition tape. Just not worth it.
So that's the bad stuff. It was a shame that stuff was there, because the good stuff was pretty transcendent. Best lines:
"Reality has a well-known liberal bias."
The administration is not "rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. That's a terrible metaphor. This administration is not sinking, it is soaring. If anything, they are rearranging the deck chairs on the Hindenburg."
On the presidents 32 percent approval rating: "You have to think of the glass as one-third full. I wouldn't drink it though. The last third is usually backwash." (This got almost no laugh; people didn't really get how vicious and great it was.)
George W. Bush is constant and unwavering in his beliefs: "If he believes something on Monday, he believes it on Wednesday, no matter what may have happened on Tuesday."
During the runup to the war, the media performed brilliantly: the public "didn't want to know, and you had the good sense not to find out."
Geo W. Bush believes in freedom of religion: Whether you are Jewish, Muslim or Shinto, there are "infinite paths to accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior."
Colbert also noted that he believed that there are more nerve endings in the gut than in the brain. He is aware that (derisive smile) "books" say this is not true, but he knows it is true because he believes it in his gut.
This stuff was truly great. It was an almost great performance. But, sadly, it wasn't a home run. It was a solid triple to deep left center, but Colbert got thrown out at home trying to stretch it to a homer.
Herndon, Va.: Gene, you say your last words will be about wishing you'd spent more time at the office. But what will you have on your tombstone? I think George Carlin said he would have "He was just here a minute ago." on his.
I am going to have, "He always knew this would happen." on mine.
Gene Weingarten: Oh, I have written of this already. My tombstone will be in the shape of a fire hydrant. It will be in Congressional Cemetery, which allows dogs. The inscription will read: A Funny Man Who Loved Dogs.
New York, N.Y.: I seem to have a deep rift with the rest of my sex. To all those women who want to spend $2 million on a piece of art -- WHY???
Gene Weingarten: BECAUSE IT IS A VERY SMART INVESTMENT.
Why, why, WHY does WTOP keep telling us that its various reports are coming from the "glass-enclosed nerve center" of WTOP? Am I getting better traffic and weather reports because the reporters are surrounded by glass? Are the news reports more reliable because they didn't use concrete for the walls? Would building the place out of brick mean I couldn't trust the stock market reports? Did I choose the wrong building material for my house? Gene, WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?
And what are you enclosed in, anyway?
Gene Weingarten: It suggests the reporters don't actually leave the building; they just look outside and report what they see.
Undisclosed Location: Important Cartoon Controversy Update! I just remembered this important fact, which shockingly has not been discussed in this chat: Gary Larson drew a "Far Side" comic with the prophet Mohammed in it.
Description: A bald man with a big beard sits in a very small house. Outside, an enormous mountain is at his door. A sound effect at the door says "Ding dong!" Caption: "Again the doorbell chimed. With his wife out of town, and not expecting any visitors, Mohammed began to grow uneasy."
No riots ensued, as far as I remember.
Gene Weingarten: When I wrote about the controversy, I wanted Eric to draw a cartoon of an bearded guy approaching a mountain. And the bearded guy would be labeled "Not Mohammad" and the mountain was to be labeled "Not a mountain." It got nixed.
Alexandria, Va.: I took the poll and got to the last question and thought to myself, "No way would I go to church for money." Being an atheist in a family of mid-life Christians, I am actively opposed to accepting Jesus Christ as my lord and savior. But having said that, and already finished voting, I'm completely rethinking this.
If I live for another 50 years and spend four hours a week doing church-y things, with the million dollar option, I'd be earning approximately $96/hour. As long as I wouldn't actually have to believe it, I could be polite and not say anything for a few hours a week. Then I could go do something useful with that money.
I totally voted the wrong way on that question.
Gene Weingarten: Yes, you did. In my opinion.
Portland, Maine: That Van Gogh cartoon this was absolutely gross. I mean, I'm an artist and I'm going to have to go home and clean all my brushes and supplies cuz I'm just wigged out by the thought. I'm not normally squirmy or anything but wow, gross.
Gene Weingarten: We actuall toned it down, as it were. Eric's original was puke-inducing.
washingtonpost.com: Orange You Glad..., ( Post Magazine, May 7 )
Charlottesville, Va.: "Assume any necessary breach in the space-time continuum, and assume you have a translator, if needed."
I chose Hitler. The necessary breach in the space-time continuum is about 116 years (1890). But no translator is necessary, thank you. I'd rather dine alone.
Gene Weingarten: Understood. Or you could eat HIM. If cannibalism is EVER justified....
Gaithersburg, Md.: Is there any prank that you have come up with that has an extremely long fuse that you would actually consider doing? The reason I ask is that it occurred to me when my son was born to tattoo "I wish I had hair." on his scalp so that in the event he went bald later in life it would be revealed. I particularly like the idea of him shaving his own head in college or sometime in order to look cool and finding the tattoo. That being said, I would never actually do such a thing. I told my son about it, actually, and we talked about how most pranks are funnier to consider than to do (he's still young). Are there any outside of George Bush's tax policy that you know of actually occurring?
Gene Weingarten: That is a very funny prank! ANY tattoo on a baby's head would be hilarious.
My wife is crazy: My wife and I were having a debate last night, and we both agreed that you should be the one to decide who's right. She thinks that the phrase "not really" means maybe. I told her that it means no. For example, if my wife asked me if I was excited to see some girly movie, and I said not really, that means that I may want to see it. I think saying not really is the same as saying no, I'm never going to see that girly movie. So, who's right?
Gene Weingarten: It is between "no" and "maybe." It is "No, but what do I get if I acquiesce?"
Chicago, Ill.: Are you mad the William Saleton over at Slate, owned by the Post, has taken the aptonym schtick (only he calls it aptronyn I believe) and last week even tried to publicize the lawyer named Sue Yoo that you had already found?
That was me!: I was the chatter who originally suggested you write a book about dogs. One could argue that the impending end of the world is my doing. The first flutter of the butterfly's wings, as it were.
Gene Weingarten: You get a book. Identify yourself to Ms. Kelly.
Central Virginia: I have a question of national marital importance. How soon should your husband back you up when your children are stinkpots? Is 30 seconds reasonable? I think that's more than reasonable! That's a long silence after your child is sassy, when your husband doesn't even have his mouth full. He feels two minutes is about the right amount. Today I yelled at my 5yo when I was stinking mad at my husband. And then, worst of worst, --I-- had to apologize to said child when he should have been apologizing to me for his behavior. Aaargh. So I was doubly mad at the dad. I know I'm wrong for yelling (I really rarely yell, which was why it was so traumatic), but am I wrong about the time? Should correction be totally immediate? What is it with men????
Gene Weingarten: Thirty seconds is too long. That situation calls for immediate backup. It is like a cop being down.
Artsy-fartsy: OF COURSE buying a piece of art is a great choice. It will appreciate in value, and in the meantime you get to look at it everyday (and for $2 million, it should be pretty fabulous).
The problem with Zits is that this is the same shirt he wears every day in every single strip. There trying to squeeze two great jokes, teenage guys just caring about girls and the meta "same clothes everyday," into one strip.
Gene Weingarten: Nope. Good guess, but there was a far greater failure.
Dog Book: I don't suppose you are going to dedicate a chapter of your book to dogs who have already gone to heaven? Do you need any photos of the dearly departed? (And who were over 10)
Gene Weingarten: No. Sorry, but this is about portraiture. You are not Michael Williamson. Trust me.
For Chatwoman: Hi there! I read the book recommendation you made in chat a few weeks ago: "Tell Them I Didn't Cry" by Jackie Spinner. It was amazing. Will she be having a Washington Post chat?
washingtonpost.com: You know, she actually did chat about it when the book first came out. I'll try to find the link for you.
Gene Weingarten: And post it here.
"At its heart, laughter is a tool to triumph over fear... We need it, because life is scary. Nature is heartless, people can be cruel, and death and suffering are inevitable and arbitrary. We learn to tame our terror by laughing at the absurdity of it all."
"I'd be entertained enough by discovering there was a heaven and all that religious silliness was true. It would just totally blow me away, I would laugh myself into a total fetal ball of laughter."
So laughter is, at its heart, a feral expression of terror? Or joy? In laughter, do we shriek at the absurdity of nature, or rejoice at the wonder of creation? Perhaps it's not as black and white as you thought?
Gene Weingarten: It's completely black and white. You that that being consumed in laughter at discovered there is a heaven and a hell and that my assumptions all along had been horribly and tragically wrong and an insult to God, who would be deciding my fate ... is unrelated to a profound and sudden fear?
Washington, D.C.: No discussion of sink-peeing can be considered complete without mentioning Peter (Ha!) O'Toole (Ha ha!).
"He was in London, doing a play called THE LONG AND THE SHORT AND THE TALL, for which he won the drama critics actor of the year award in 1959. "Robert Shaw had the dressing room with the loo and I didn't," he explains. "I had the one with the big sink." One night after the performance, he was standing in his dressing room, peeing in the sink, when he heard an unmistakable voice behind him. "Hello," said the voice. "my name in Katherine Hepburn..."
Gene Weingarten: Ever see The War of the Roses? Great scene where Michael Douglas arrives drunk at his ex-wife's fancy dinner party, walks into the kitchen. "What are you doing," Kathleen Turner calls to him. "I'm pissing on the fish," he says. And he was!
Zits: The strip shows Jeremy sinking a long trick shot. HAHAHAHAHAHA! White guys can't play basketball!
Gene Weingarten: Hahahahaha. A worthy observation, but it is TECHNICALLY possible.
New York, N.Y.: Not to beat a dead (and somewhat boring) horse, but in the "Classic Dave Barry" published this week, your dear friend and mentor said
"And let's talk about you people who always send your food back in restaurants. (I KNOW this has nothing to do with handicapped parking; I can't stop myself.) I mean, sure, if the food is truly BAD, if it has RODENTS running around on it, OK, send it back; but what about you people who ALWAYS send your food back, thereby turning EVERY SINGLE MEAL into an exercise in consumer whining?"
Gene Weingarten: Well, Dave and I disagree profoundly about food. It stuns me what he will eat; he ridicules me for my adventurousness, which I think he regards to be a form of snobbery. But what's to take issue with here. But no one likes a person who ROUTINELY returns food in restaurants. That person is just a jerk.
I know this isn't your normal sort of question, but I'd appreicat your point of view.
My husband and I recently bought our first home; we have a baby on the way.
We bought some new furniture - our first furniture that is ours, not mine or his. My MIL does not like our couch. She first brought this up by offering to buy us a slipcover. Hubby told her no. Then she bought one for us and showed us how nice it is, don't we think we would like it? We told her no.
Then, in the confusion of moving, she put it onto the couch. Since we were crazy busy we did not take it off and give it back for about a week; sometime in that week it got a stain - an (ahem) milk stain. Embarassing.
Well, I washed the slipcover and hubby returned it to MIL, who immediately noticed the stain. She has exploded at hubby for being so inappropriate, and involved most of his family. Hubby is upset with me for not telling him that the stain was still there. I kinda feel like she crossed the line and don't feel bad about any of it excpt that she is being nasty to hubby.
I also feel like we didn't have any choice but to return it to her; otherwise she won't get the message that no means no. I hate that she just ignored us and did what she wanted anyway.
So what do you think? Thanks.
Gene Weingarten: Your MIL sounds like a truly meddlesome jackass; pushing a slipcover as a way of criticizing your taste is rude and stupid.
But you know all that.
Please explain a "milk" stain. Is this a euphemism? If not, why is there a milk stain if you have a baby on the way? I am missing something here, and will be ridiculed by dozens, yes?
Zits mistake: Not sure this is it, but couldn't imagine him saying that to his Mom.
Gene Weingarten: No, this was a humor mistake: He should not have had that panel in the middle. It was a pointless telegraphing. The joke would have worked MUCH better with just the punchline coming out of nowhere.
Why art?: I didn't choose art because it was a good investment, though it would be. I chose it because it was the only option that I could keep without having to spend additional money. I could store a valuable piece of art in my current home. But I certainly couldn't store a boat or plane there.
Gene Weingarten: Also a good point.
washingtonpost.com: Personal to the book suggester... we got your info.
Re: Valerie Plame: Sunday's Reliable Source was the first time I had seen Plame's picture. Joe Wilson is one lucky man. Do you suppose when Karl Rove said that "Wilson's wife is fair game," he was speaking not as a political operative but as a heterosexual male with healthy urges?
Gene Weingarten: That was another good line by Colbert. He introduced Joe Wilson as "the most famous husband in America since Desi Arnaz."
washingtonpost.com: Valerie Plame and Joe Wilson (Photo)
Re: women's clothing: This vanity sizing thing sucks! It wastes your time because you have to try on more clothes just to find one thing that fits. And shopping online or through catalogs is just throwing away money on shipping and handling because chances are you'll have to return the stuff because it didn't fit.
We're not buying clothes because the number on the label is lower than it used to be and we're stupid enough to believe we're smaller. We buy them because we need clothes and that's what's available. It's an insult to our intelligence. I'd like to bitch-slap the people who came up with this idea.
Gene Weingarten: I'm with you. I think it is demeaning.
Chicago, unwilling to submit to truisms: Greetings,
When the pastor included the truism, "There are no U-Haul trailers behind a hearse," I turned to my lawyer and asked him if we could take care of a truism.
His quote: "I can set it up so your casket is a U-Haul trailer if you want."
Given that I want to have my ashes scattered over a large outdoor food event with a press release the next day, I told him it wouldn't be necessary to go too far.
Gene Weingarten: I never heard of this truism. What does it mean?
First law of parenting: is you ALWAYS back each other up. No matter what. You may, later, in private, discuss if you disagreed with the other spouse and have future ground rules.
If (well, let's be reasonable) when a child gets a bit cheeky to me, there is very little worse in the eyes of my hubby.
(Of course, the standard disclaimer about not counting if there is abuse, yada yada yada)
Gene Weingarten: There is another rule we always followed. Always back the kid up, against the world, absent absolute proof that the kid is wrong. We once had someone come to our house to complain about one of our kids. The rib did all the talking. She was an incredibly cold prosecutor. By a half hour later, the people left terrified they were going to get sued, or something. Afterwards, the rib and I agreed that we didn't know for sure what our child had done, and were going to find out, but for the moment there was only one right side. Molly's.
Oop, I disclosed it was Molly. Well, it turns out she hadn't done anything wrong.
Burke, Va.: So when are you going to get a new dog?
By the way, I really missed you last week -- I asked Eugene Robinson a question about VPL on the theory that there isn't that much difference between the name Gene and Eugene. Unfortunately he didn't take it. Perhaps if I had asked him about VPL on American Idol...
Gene Weingarten: The rib and I are in negotiations over this very subject.
I'll buy the book: Especially if you include the pic of my son and Melbourne (Blue Heeler), who will sadly not be with us at the time of first publication.
I think you may be as overwhelmed to get the million copies signed, however.
Gene Weingarten: Send in Melbourne's pic. Michael works fast.
Silver Spring, Md.: In my on-going campaign to slowly turn you into an underground hip-hop fan I submit to you these lyrics from the acclaimed DangerDoom project that came out last year. In four lines there's enough renferences to your work to beg the question -- Ha just kidding. Refuse their brilliance if you dare...
Artist: Danger Doom (Danger Mouse and MF Doom)Album: The Mouse and the MaskSong: El Chupa Nibre
-The super flow with more jokes than Bazooka Joe-A mix between Superfly Snuka and a superhoe-Chew a MC like El Chupa Nibre-Digest a group and sell the poop on eBay
On second thought maybe this isn't a good idea. If you show up at one of these shows looking like Gene Shalit you might submarine the whole genre as you implied in your call to arms to get parents to Eminem concerts back in the day. Stay Away. Cool lyrics, No?
Gene Weingarten: I am a sucka for interior rhyme, as you know. AND poop. So what's not to like about poop interior rhyme?
Invitation, AL: If you by any chance know the Empress, perhaps you could ask her about the current Invitational contest, week 661: "This week, give us a funny new title for an existing movie."
Does "existing" include movies that were recently in the theaters, say, anytime this calendar year, such as those that were included in the March 2006 Academy Awards? Movies have such a short pre-shelf (DVD) life now, and the movies on screens right seem destined to disappear soon into DVD land.
Gene Weingarten: I am pretty sure existing simply means a real movie, as opposed to a made-up movie. Casablanca is an existing movie.
Truism: It means 'you can't take it with you'.
Gene Weingarten: Evidently. Several people said that. But I still don't get it.
Looks like a milk stain: Gene - really - when's the last time you had sex with your beloved on the couch?
Gene Weingarten: Well, I figured as much, but I never heard this particular euphemism.
The Empress of The Style Invitational: Missive From the Empress: In this week's contest, which is to rename in either hilariously wordy or hilariously pithy fashion an "existing movie," I mean any actual movie already made. It doesn't have to be on a marquee at this moment.
However, given that I stole this contest from one done in 1999, movies made since then can't possibly repeat the winners of that contest.
washingtonpost.com: Style Invitational: Week 661
Gene Weingarten: Ah, here we go. The definitive answer.
Washington, D.C.: What's with these paralyzing muscle cramps I get in my legs when I lie down to bed? What can I do about em? Am I dying? Is this Lou Gehrig's disease coming on?
Gene Weingarten: Yes, you are dying, as we all are. But not from the cramps.
Depending on where you come from, these things are called either muscle spasms, cramps, or charley horse. When they occur in the arch of the foot they are painful. In the calf they are nearly incapacitating. In the thigh or buttock they are totally incapacitating, creating 90 seconds of pain some people have compared to childbirth or a broken elbow. Sometimes they can occur in the ankle, lifting the big toe to a nearly 90 degree angle.
Some people get em a lot (me and my daughter) and some people get them not at all (my rib). Various doctors have various theories and nostrums, and to the best of my knowledge, no one has really figured out their cause or treatment. Some dox will tell you to drink more water, take more potassium,cut out caffeine. Of course, doctors will ALWAYS tell you to cut out caffeine, whatever your complaint.
A good trick: When it happens, stand on a door jamb, with your heel on the high part and your toes on the floor. Press down. It helps.
Those things really, really suck.
Bathroom Smuggling: Ok, so I have been addicted to reading ever since I learned how. I read while I walk, I read while I eat (if my family lets me), and I even sometimes read while in traffic or at red lights. Obviously I bring books into the bathroom with me, because I can't stand to spend so much time just sitting there with nothing to do. However I can't seem to get over the embarrassment of walking into or out of the bathroom at work with a book. Sure, everyone poops, but I don't actually want people to know when I'm pooping! (Plus my boss might think I was wasting time.) I've tried shoving paperbacks into my (small) purse (my purse is usually too full, half the time paperbacks are only printed in those stupid expensive and large format, and then what about hardbacks?), stuffing newspapers and magazines into my pants (I look fat and awkward), and wrapping the book in a black plastic bag (oh come on EVERYONE knows what that is), but nothing seems to work. Do you have any advice? Does anyone else here???
Gene Weingarten: Make a secret compartment in a watermelon, and put the book in it. No one will make any assumptions about why you are bringing a watermelon into the bathroom.
I love women. I love love love every single one of you except certain Republican legislators.
Gene Weingarten: Okay, the poll.
Well, first off, the girls and the boys think pretty alike here, except for the unsurprising fact that women are far more likely to hit the genie up for a physical makeover than the men are. Life is still not fair to women.
The other gender divide, also unsurprising, is that so many women BUT VIRTUALLY NO MEN wanted to visit with Jane Austen or QE1. Since these two are historically less vital than many of the others, I presume women were expressing a desire to discuss matters of feminism - perhaps more to impart things that would startle their dinner guests than to learn from them. Do I have this right, ladies?
To me we have to begin with the question: What do you want to accomplish in this dinner. I see three possible goals:
1)Meet someone incredibly important and amazing.
2)Reveal something to someone, to gauge their reaction,
Perhaps because I am a journalist, I lean to number three. And there are only three plausible candidates: Jesus and Shakespeare and Oswald. I know Oswald shot JFK and acted alone, and even if he didn't, this mystery just ain't that great. Plus, he'd be a sullen jerk at dinner. I'd sure like to know if Willie was some illiterate dunce. Still, my final choice is the same as yourn. Jesus might well be so elliptical and mysterious that you wouldn't know what you'd just seen, but I'll take that chance.
The really bad choices would probably be a) Van Gogh, unless you could get him to paint you something. He was a sullen geek. Also, Hitler. I mean, it would be neat to tell him how reviled he is (category 2), but it wouldn't bother him all that much.
To me, the only reasonable answer to question two is something that will appreciate in value, without great risk. The horse is almost guaranteed to return nothing. I'm going for the art. The business you could buy for $2 million would be SO small it would probably just be a headache.
With the genie, having musical talent is tempting, but I am taking the ten years. I would like ten more years of productivity, such as it is.
And I am willing to learn and practice Christianity, sanely, for $10 million. Ten million is do-whatever-you-want-for-the-rest-of-your-life money. That's worth going to church and being a good guy about it, and maybe learning a little about humility and faith.
Springfield, TV: Did you see Sunday's Simpson's use Weingarten as the name of a rich couple that lived up the street from the Simpspons? Homer intercepts their package from Omaha Steaks. Do you know/like Matt Groening?
Gene Weingarten: I know! It was weird. "Brenda and Scott Weingarten," I think. I don't know Groening, and I am sure this was unrelated to me.
Zits problem: Jeremy would never confide in his mom. He might have said that to Hector, but definitely not his mom!
Gene Weingarten: I already explained it! You can stop guessing.
Small business beats art: Basic financial theory says that small business is the better investment than art.
You won't get a normal rate of return from the appreciation of the art because art offers some intrinsic value to its owner--you can look at it. People accept a lower rate of return for that.
You should expect to get a normal rate of return from a small business because it offers no value except for its economic return. The return is the only thing the business has going for it, so the return has to be pretty good.
Put it another way: If small business doesn't pay a better return than art, why would anyone invest in a small business--which is no fun--when he could be collecting art--which is fun?
Gene Weingarten: It is far more likely that the small business will depreciate in value than that the art will. IMHO.
Washington, D.C.: I'm female and I want the boat. I knew I should have picked the art because it was the better investment, but that assumes I'm going to sell whatever I buy. Do I have to sell? I still want the boat. Forget the art - it's like buying the practical skirt.
Gene Weingarten: Personally, I'd rather have a lesser Van Gogh than a boat. Boats are boring.
Worst charley horse ever!: In the tongue and lower jaw. Made me want to smash my face in with a brick.
Gene Weingarten: Yes, very bad. But preventable. You can catch that one and stop it.
Chicago, Ill.: In terms of backing your kid up against the world. What do you think of the mom who got arrested for helping her daughter and friends make ex-lax cookies for a teacher who gave her a bad grade. The prank backfired when the teacher gave them out to the class and four kids got sick.
Gene Weingarten: A really, really stupid stunt.
Hiccups: Frequently when I eat fresh, raw vegetables-especially carrots-I get the hiccups. Why is this? It's extremely annoying, not only because I love veggies but because I'd like to be able to idly snack on them instead of something less healthful. Any ideas why this happens and how to prevent it? What are the hiccups anyway?
Gene Weingarten: The hiccups are a maladventure of the diaphragm. Yes, they can mean cancer. That was the subtitle of my book.
Bowie, Md.: Gene said, "I have known women get freaked out to discover that men do not use toilet paper for number one. Ever. You gals all knew that, right?".
Nope, we don't. At least we didn't until my brother saw my 3 year old nephew go to the potty and then proudly wipe his little pee-pee. You would have thought the world had ended. Us single mother's raising boys are at a loss sometimes. Maybe there should be a manual... Well, uncle took it upon himself to make sure that his manly nephew, was raised properly and not sissified by us girls. Nephew is now a well-adjusted 14 year old. We did good.
Gene Weingarten: Thank God that problem was addressed. I love and respect single moms, but you can be a menace in areas like this.
Sock, shoe, sock, shoe: Wow, I tried that the other day. Felt really weird - like I was in an alternate reality. Tell the rib from me that she's a freak!
Gene Weingarten: It makes me love her all the more.
Back, Wash.: Now, how true is that "backwash" thing, really? This has been a topic of argument in our house forever.
Gene Weingarten: I doubt it is true at all, but it didn't need to be true for the joke to work.
EuGene, OR: I used to get those muscle cramps all the time. If I woke up in the middle of the night and moved a foot AT ALL, my calf would tighten up like a [woman-of-the-night] in church. Potassium helped me. Eat a banana a day and they go away.
Gene Weingarten: Others say that is nonsense. You are exhibiting anecdotal medicine. I'm not saying you are wrong, but that may not explain why they stopped. Stop the bananas and report back to this chat.
Advice: My boyfriend and I are raising his kid from a previous marriage. The mom's now a sometimes heroin addict, has given up three kids for adoption in five years (one was born addicted), can't keep a job, and was living with her abusive boyfriend in a friend's garage last we knew. (We've tried to help with the abuse.) She rarely ever manages to see her kid, and cannot have any responsibility over him.
So, as drug addicts are wont to do, she has stolen money from us. We try to plug leaks and keep no cash in the house, but life comes at you fast. We've never been able to prove anything, and so have never filed police reports. Recently, however, she found an ancient checkbook and wrote a check to a friend for $300, signing her married name. The bank cleared it despite the fact that she's off the account, which nearly caused us serious difficulties. We filed a police report at the bank's direction, but not before contacting her to give her the opportunity to return the money to us. She claimed she'd just been paid by the employer she supposedly currently has and would be over that night-then, unsurprisingly, never showed and disappeared again.
Now the bank wants us to press charges. We're unsure. We're tired of being stolen from and want our money back (the bank should credit us if we do this), but we're not sure how we'll be able to face our kid when-not if-he finds out we put his mom in jail (assuming the warrant eventually caught up to her). Furthermore, we're worried jail will teach her things like better ways of scoring smack and breaking into our apartment.
Do you or the other chatters have any advice, legal or ethical? We're not even sure what kind of penalties a puny $300 fraud charge would carry.
Gene Weingarten: This woman desperately needs help, and sometimes the courts are the only place to get it. Many plea agreements involve drug treatment. I would turn her in, for her own good, and if an when the time comes to explain this to her son, you have an explanation that is both true and right.
Gene Weingarten: Sorry, back. Lost my web connection.
Alexandria, Va.: Rep. Abraham Lincoln, speaking in the House in 1848, in support of the candidacy of General Zachary Taylor for President:
"But, as General Taylor is, par excellence, the hero of the Mexican War, and as you Democrats say we Whigs have always opposed the war, you think it must be veryawkward and embarrassing for us to go for General Taylor. The declaration that we have always opposed the war is true or false, according as one may understand the term "oppose the war." If to say "the war was unnecessarily and unconstitutionally commenced by the President" be opposing the war, then the Whighs have very generallyopposed it.... The marching an army into the midst of a peaceful Mexican settlement, frightening the inhabitants away, leaving their growing crops and other property to destruction, to you may appear a perfectly amiable, peaceful, unprovoking procedure; but it does not appear so to us.... But if, when the war had begun, and had become the cause of the country, the giving of our money and our blood, in common with yours, was support of the war, then it is not true that we have always opposed the war. With few individual exceptions, you have constantly had our votes here for all the necessary supplies...."
Why do leaders like this no longer exist? Where have you gone, Abe Lincoln? A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Gene Weingarten: Lincoln was a Whig???
I guess so, before there was a Republican party.
Manassas, Va.: According to Barbara Wallraff in the book "Word Fugitives" you were the "Czar" of the Style Invitational until 2003 and that now Pat Myers, the "Empress" controls the weekly contest.
Have you been outed, or is this yet another in a long line of baseless accusations?
Gene Weingarten: I deny it. Several people have made this error.
Re: Colbert: What's your take on all the liberal bloggers who are now saying it doesn't matter whether Colbert's performance was funny? My view (card-carrying liberal that I am) was that it didn't work, for many of the reasons you mentioned - I just didn't laugh, even though there were good lines - but, also, that it does matter whether it was funny, i.e., worked - because what's the point, otherwise? That's where I think humor can be so effective, in making people think about things they'd otherwise accept unquestioningly - but, if it's not funny, no one who's not already convinced will bother to listen.
Gene Weingarten: Of COURSE it matters whether it was funny. If it wasn't funny, it was a total disaster.
MIL: I mailed a Mother's Day card to my mother today (I have to be away this weekend). Each year, I wonder if it will be the last one -- she has Alzheimer's. She doesn't know me anymore and I really sent the card as a gesture for myself and for my father. SO, when I read the comment about the controlling MIL, I got so sad. Why, oh why, when life is so short and when the good times can be so few, are people so petty? Will an ugly sofa matter in 100 years?
You are totally correct. Nothing taught me this lesson than getting what appeared to be a fatal disease. I really don't hold grudges or sweat small stuff anymore.
Lexington Park, Md.: Rhymes with oranger?
Were oranger a real word, and given your northeastern accent, would it rhyme with derringer?
Gene Weingarten: No. I pronounce it ARE-indge.
For the Leg Cramp:: Don't ask me why but my mother has similar leg cramping at night and she was told to put a bar of soap at the end of the bed, under the sheets. If you feel the coming pain, rub your foot on it and the pain disappears. No, she's not a kook and no, she's not David Blaine. I actually tried it, also, and haven't had one since, even after football or hockey.
Gene Weingarten: WHAT? Has anyone else heard this? Is it the SHAPE of the bar of soap, or the soap itself that supposedly works?
Alexandria, Va.: Ditto on bringing reading material to the bathroom. It is definitely noticed. Also noticed is bringing a purse to the bathroom, especially when not done every time. Then it is glaringly apparent that it is that time of the month.
Gene Weingarten: But ... so what?
Er, about the first thing.
For the lady who has to read in the loo...: When I have to "go" at work, and I need something to read, I bring a folder in, so it looks like I'm on my way to a meeting, and am stopping in the Ladies Room. In the folder I usually have a story from the Post I've been meaning to read, and have printed out, and I always have a backup of crossword puzzles. I am SO glad there are others like me, I always thought I was strange.
Gene Weingarten: Good solution, though I still don't know why a solution is needed.
St. Mary's City, Md.: 'What's a popped collar?' Gene, you are so adorable. (Try googling it. Look for frat guys with pastel colored polos.)
Also, I'd like to second the comment about guys in excessive jewelry. A friend of mine talks about the pinky ring rule all the time. (You can't trust guys who wear pinky rings. Ever.) In fact, she and I were in a class together, watching a video with some skeezy politician, being all skeezy. When he lifted his hand to gesture, there was the pinky ring. My friend and I looked at each other and cracked up.
Gene Weingarten: And I heart you. Yeah, I did google popped collar. They all look jerky, even this guy's.
Wash First, OK?: Regarding the urologist who suggested that washing one's hands BEFORE using a urinal was the way to "go": a few years ago at the Sidewalk Cafe in Richmond, VA, I was enjoying their Buffalo Wings (best wings in Richmond, by the way) when I was struck with the need to urinate. I did so (sleaziest bathroom in Richmond, by the way) and washed my hands before returning to the table to finish my wings. Within minutes, I was struck by an uncomfortable sensation in my, uh, Area. Sure enough, some of the wing sauce had transferred onto Omar (the tentmaker, get it?) and I was in terrible pain. Since then I still wash after, but if I'm eating wings or anything spicy, I wash METICULOUSLY before as well. So do all my friends who were with me on that fateful day, who are more than happy to recount the incident to anyone who doesn't know about it.
Gene Weingarten: I'm posting this because I like Omar.
Many years ago, the Yankees had a lousy player named Omar Moreno. His nickname on the bench was Omar the Outmaker.
Breaking Aptonym News: Walmart is in a lawsuit with a man who claims to have invented the round, yellow, smiling face symbol. Walmart's spokesman in the matter: John Smiley.
Not even giving up my location for this one! : Gene, I'd like to take advantage of the anonymity of the chat, and your medical "expertise" - hoping for an explanation of a strange conversation that I've not been able to forget for many years now.
At a doctor's visit to evaluate a minor digestive complaint, the doc asked whether my poop floats or sinks. Huh? How does THAT information help?
Gene Weingarten: Persistent floaters -- particularly when this represents a change from mostly sinkers -- mean there is too much fat in your poo. That could signal malabsorption of fat, which could mean several bad things, including pancreatitis or an obstructed bile duct. Those things, however, usually involve pain. No pain with floaters? Could be ... pancreatic cancer!
I have a whole CHAPTER on poo.
Threshold, Not Jamb: Buddy, the door jamb is on the side. I think you meant to advise the person with the leg cramps to stand on the threshold, which is on the floor.
Although, isn't threshhold a subset of jamb? No?
Cartoon error: The Speed Bump cartoon of April 29 that you highlighted is funny, but would be funnier if they specialized in trademark law. You can't copyright your name.
Gaithersburg, Md.: Your answer to the last question of the poll reminds me of the Groucho Marx joke where he asks a woman if she would sleep with him for $1 and when she says no then asks if she would do it for $1 million. When she says yes he says "now that we know what kind of woman you are let's negotiate on the price (or something like that). Don't you think your response that you would change religions if the price is right a similar answer -- you wouldn't prostitute yourself for small amount but would for a larger amount?
Gene Weingarten: Absolutely. Life itself is about that decision.
But in this case, I wouldn't think of it as prostitution. I would be learning about Christianity. No harm in that. I suspect plenty of good Christians are unsure of whether they believe absolutely in the divinity of Christ.
You do Groucho an injustice. The woman says, "One dollar! What do you think I am?" and he says: "We have already established what you are, we are just haggling over price."
Old Dogs: I was getting all verklempt aver the picture of Harry when I noticed Huckleberry hound. Now I have snot on my monitor.
Gene Weingarten: Yeah, the public's pictures won't start appearing until tomorrow.
Boston, Mass.: I'm heading down to your old stomping grounds (Miami) next week for a friend's wedding. Anything to definitely see or do? Should I stop in and have a beer with Dave?
Gene Weingarten: Go to Dania and spend a night at Jai Alai. Best evening to be had in Miami.
Gene Weingarten: Get someone who knows what he's doing to explain the betting, though.
Transplanted, but connected electronically: I also hate charlie horses. Not because I get them -- I don't -- but because my girlfriend does. Not at random times either. She tends to get them when we are "romantically entangled," which pretty much puts the damper on the mood, to say the least.
She's taken to stretching her legs if that sort of thing is in the offing.
Gene Weingarten: It's one of those rare occasions during sex when one doesn't WANT something hard.
Boston, Mass.: Hi Gene, I was dropping off a friend at South Station on Sunday, and decided to pick up a book while I was there for the T ride home. There in the humor section of the small kiosk in the middle of the station, were three copies of "I'm With Stupid", perhaps the only book my wife and I will ever both enjoy reading. Does the offer still stand for us to mail you the book in order to tremendously increase its value with your signature (and maybe Gina's too)? Or, better yet, will you be in the area any time soon? Loving the book so far. Thanks!
Gene Weingarten: Send it to me at the Post. 1150 15th St. NW, Washington DC 20071. If you want Gina to sign it too, it'll take a while getting back but we can do it.
Ashburn, Va.: Prom's coming up. Any advice? How about some Molly-or-Dan stories?
Gene Weingarten: Here's something I don't think I've ever revealed before: Mol went to her prom with Rob Barry. They were an item for a while!
Rockville: I avoid carrying a purse into the bathroom during that time of the month by wearing pants and stuffing the...supplies into my socks.
Gene Weingarten: Okay, I am laughing my arse off here.
Snoopy Officemate: where do all these people work that their coworkers are observing what they bring to the bathroom with them, and whether it's the same every time?
FYI, I also do the "bringing paperwork to a meeting" cover and then pop into the men's room for an afternoon read.
Gene Weingarten: I just have to keep coming back to the truism: Everyone poops. There is no shame in it. Except, apparently, to women.
Ben Franklin said "Fart proudly." Same principle applies.
Unfortunate Names: I was walking through Kensington the other day, and came upon a real estate agent's sign that just cracked me up. Thought you'd enjoy it.
Jane Austen: It's not to discuss feminism. She was very, very funny. You'd have loved her.
Gene Weingarten: She was mostly funny in print and in epistolary correspondence, no? She was not an observational wit, was she?
Essington, Pa.: Staining the slipcover and then returning it was the perfect response to a bitchy mother-in-law.
Gene Weingarten: Yes, this is a good point.
Silver Spring, Md.: When a faculty votes no confidence in a president who hasn't even started yet, it seems to me there is nothing but prejudice behind that vote.
Gene Weingarten: Oh, CLEARLY there is nothing but prejudice behind that vote. I think the voters would agree. They don't like that "type of person."
We are talking Gaullaudet here, and the would-be president who did not learn sign language until her 20s.
Lansing, Mich.: Re: Old dogs
You missed ours by a month. (Sniff.) A retired racing greyhound who lived to 15 and a half.
Bowie: "Gene Weingarten: Go to Dania and spend a night at Jai Alai. Best evening to be had in Miami."
If you like the smell of old cigarettes and spilt beer.
Gene Weingarten: Wrong. It is kind of elegant, upstairs, near the restaurant.
South Riding, Va.: I fold the newspaper and place it down my sock, inside my pants leg, and then go in the bathroom. There's enough slack in the pants leg so that no one can tell.
Gene Weingarten: I hide the book in the seat of my pants.
Mount Olive: The problem of dinner with Jesus is that unless it's the last supper, there's no way to figure out if he's the genuine article or just some deranged preacher.
Gene Weingarten: Well, the theory of the question is that whoever is doing the arranging KNOWS it is the historical Jesus. So I guess this would be God as the middleman.
Gaithersburg, Md.: Why does Liz always change my city from G'burg to Gaithersburg?
washingtonpost.com: Because, wherever possible I'm charged with changing entries to Post/AP style. Big fun for me, too, sport.
Gene Weingarten: Liz has one of the greatest jobs at the paper.
A chatter implied that if he could go back in time to take out Hitler, he would. What historical figure would you do in, if you could?
Gene Weingarten: We had this discussion, some months back. I'd probably take out Alois Hitler, about ten months before Hitler was born.
Monthly purse run: A friend of mine stuffed the item up her sleeve, then had to gesticulate on the way to the Ladies' Room. Centrifugal force took over, and the thing flew about 30 feet away.
Honestly ladies, we don't notice.
Gene Weingarten: They'll NEVER believe us. No matter how many times we tell em.
They also don't believe we don't care if they gain five pounds. Isn't that great?
Okay, folks. Done for the day. I'll be updating as usual. And thanks again for a zitload of questions. sorry about those I couldn't get to.
Gene Weingarten: Several readers pointed out that it was not Groucho who was negotiating with the lady over her price. The quote has been widely attributed to Churchill, but that's not right, either. It appears to have been George Bernard Shaw. I'm not entirely sure about this, because Shaw is also famous for his response to a hot young woman who suggested that they get married, so the child could haver her body and his mind: "But, madam, what if it had my body and your mind?"
Wetumka, OK: Am I the only one who really WANTS to enjoy David Blaine's schtick and just can't? I find myself wanting to root for someone going for a breath-holding record but kept thinking "he's faking those underwater gasps for air" or "those 'paramedics' are just pretending to treat him for liver failure".
Gene Weingarten: I like David Blaine. Lizziegirl, can you link to a poem about David Blaine I had in Outlook in 1999 or 2000?
washingtonpost.com: The Ballot of David Blaine, (Post, Dec. 10, 2000)
Auuuggghrange or perhaps Doh-range: My husband was good friends in college with a very beautiful and famous actress. He insists on seeing every movie she makes regardless of reviews, content, or quality. I believe that you have made disparaging remarks about her from time to time (she often plays distraught mothers in peril or whose children are in peril).
My husband works for a company that provides equipment to the film industry. So he does have contact with production assistants when they come in to pick up orders.
Several years ago, this actress was in town filming a movie. When the production assistant came into my husband's shop, he gave the PA his card, explaining that he knew the star from college and he'd like to hear from her if it was ok with her.
BUT...several months later he got a voice message from her on his office phone. Of course she remembered him and would love for him to give her a call to catch up on old times. She left her HOME phone number.
He was so excited to hear from her. This was great! He automatically deleted the message.
I suggested he find the name of her agent or publicistwrite, email, whatever to explain what a doofus he was, apologize profusely, and pass on the message to the actress.
He never did anything but is still wallowing in the horror of this one act of stupidity.
Gene Weingarten: Let me tell you what I would do. I would kiss you half to death. Does your husband have any idea how lucky he is?
No, you have no idea what I am talking about, because you are a girl.
Gad, you are a peach.
Carrots: Chew more thoroughly, eat more slowly. The lumps going down your esophagus are triggering the spasms in your diaphragm.
Gene Weingarten: Yeah, this is possible. It would irritate the vagus or phrenic nerves.
Years ago, a Post columnist (Levy?) would from time to time run a contest whereby readers would create words to describe specific (usually awkward) social situations. After a stated period of time the columnist would declare the "winner" of the contest (you know, as if someone could take something that is sooo subjective and declaratively state one way or another that... oh. Never mind). The exact name of the contest escapes me, but in its day it was possibly as popular as the one currently attended to by the mighty Empress of the Style Invitational. Or not.
Anyway, I oft reminded of it when I encounter a social phenomenon that I'm certain many other chatters face on a daily basis. This social situation begs that something new be added to the lexicon of English words to capture the essence of the matter succinctly and once and for all, and therefore I come to you, Supreme Arbitrator of All Things Subjective. Here is the situation:
You find yourself walking behind someone at a relatively non-threatening-personal-space-invading distance, when that individual comes upon a door that you both must enter. Being polite, that individual (and use the word "individual" not to be PC, but because in my experience this behavior is gender neutral) proceeds to hold the door open for you as well. Now, ordinarily this would simply be considered polite, except that in this case you are more than a few steps behind. If you continue at your present pace, the time it would take you to reach the door would approach something just this side of being rude, so now YOU feel compelled to trot up to the door in order to accept the courtesy extended. This feeling that now compels you is called....
And Gene, try to be declarative.
I'll hang-up now and listen to your answer....
Arlington, Va.: A follow-up to the previous question where someone asked
"A chatter implied that if he could go back in time to take out Hitler, he would. What historical figure would you do in, if you could?"
If you could go back in time, what historical figure would you do?
Gene Weingarten: I would do my wife, at age 22. To me, she's a historical figure. And I just can't see how she'd have cause for complaint.
Lunching behind closed doors in a govt office in D.C.: Gene, I've been a fan of Doonesbury since my early high school days and know that Trudeau's strips can be full of political poking, but what do you think of his storyline of late, of BD's return from Iraq, his therapy (of which you made a CPOW) and all? I recall the strip where BD was in the hospital after losing his leg and only those long-time fans got the joke of "can't stop staring" because it was the first time BD didn't have some sort of helmet on. I think Trudeau is doing a great job of touching on the sensitive issues with gentle humor. What say you? I heart you.
Gene Weingarten: I think Trudeau has been doing some of the best work he's ever done, and that is quite a thing to say.
Gene Weingarten: As predicted, the responses to calls for old dog pictures have been rather overwhelming, to Olddogsbook.com. And your descriptions of your dogs confirm what we have always known about Post readers, and readers of this chat in particular: You are smart and funny.
Please note three things: 1) We don't mind if you send us pictures of deceased dogs -- we are dog nuts, too -- but we're not going to post those. We need only live dogs for the book. 2) Not all the pictures you send will be posted on the site. We're only using photos that will read well onscreen. 3) No, there is no time limit. This site will remain open until the book is done.
Male for Jane Austin: I am a male, straight, who selected Jane Austin. She was the only one on the list with a sense of humor.
Gene Weingarten: Lincoln had a superior sense of humor -- bawdy, in fact. Shakespeare, if he is the guy who wrote the plays, had a brilliant sense of humor. You have no idea if Socrates had a sense of humor. Washington had none, it is true; Eliz probably also had none. Jesus probably ... not. he had a lot on his mind.
Germantown, Md.: As one of the few men who put Jane Austen down, I feel I must defend my choice. My sole criterion for a dinner would be who would provide the most entertaining and charming conversation. Surely (have you ever read her?) Miss Austen would be the superior choice, surpassing (except perhaps in her own opinion) Jesus in her insights into humanity.
As for Jesus, don't forget that we really know very little about this guy except what was written by some fanatical adherents years after his death. You might be surprised a bit at your dinner companion.
Gene Weingarten: Uh, dude, the whole POINT would be to be surprised by Jesus. Whatever you learned would be cataclysmically important. If he was a ranting, the-end-is-coming frothing-at-the-mouth eschatological preacher, as some believe, that would be enormously important. If he was a preternaturally calm, self-possessed, otherworldly philosopher, that would also be enormously important. Virtually no incarnation of Jesus would NOT be enormously important. If he was, basically, a politician, that would be enormously important. You know?
Eugene, Ore.: What is this "feel the pain coming?" That's like saying, "feel the bullet coming." My cramps happen so fast I've almost passed out from jumping out of bed so fast.
Gene Weingarten: I find there is an "aura" of about five to 10 seconds, like the sort of things felt by epileptics before an attack. Unless I am asleep. That's bad, when you are asleep, because it is the crescendo of pain that wakes you.
A Modest Proposal: ...wasn't funny, but that didn't make it a disaster.
Gene Weingarten: A modest proposal WAS funny -- in a genteel way common to the time. It was so outrageous that it was perforce funny.
RE: Queen Elizabeth: No! I voted for Queen Elizabeth, and I completely disagree with your reasoning. (Well, okay, figuring out a big secret is a good reason.) Do you have no room for people that you just find fascinating?
QE1 is interesting for the same reason that the television character Buffy was interesting and ended up being ridiculously popular among almost all the women at my college. (Yes, I'm in my mid-twenties.) The idea of someone who is fated to take on an essential duty, one that is so important it cannot be refused, despite the fact that it will prevent her from ever having a normal life (and will cut her off from friends, family, and potential lovers, because no one else can possibly understand the depth of what her duty requires of her).
I have to think that in private moments, young guys have to sometimes imagine themselves the same way--as being tragically destined to live a life of great importance, even if no one else can understand or know. I mean, that's the whole conceit behind Spiderman or Superman or pretty much any comic book ever, right? At some point you probably grow up and mature and blah de blah blah. But for now, Elizabeth seems to encapsulate that fascinating idea for me, and I'd love to just listen to her talk about what is was like to live her life in that situation.
Gene Weingarten: I think this is beautifully described. I might worry that Liz would be completely unwilling to discuss her inner emotions with a commoner. But that is a risk with most of these people, of course.
Washington, D.C.: Gene, is it true that no one in Prince George's County wears pants? I've shied away from PGC primarily for this reason, but recently I've heard that in fact some folks up there DO actually wear pants. I am so confused.
Gene Weingarten: That is ridiculous. They wear pants. Otherwise everyone would see that they all have shaved pubes.
Gene Weingarten: Put your hands together for this guy. Your sound must be pretty high..
Herndon, Va: Welcome Back! I saw this just after your last chat and have waited nearly two whole weeks to share it.
YES it Real and YES it would work. The question is would you (or my fellow chatters be willing to use it?)
The reponses I've gotten from my informal polling of co-workers range from "hey that's a clever Idea!" (almost all men) to "I'd literally rather die first" (Largely women).
Has poop shame become so pervase that the toliet is now taboo even in life saving situations?
Gene Weingarten: I am in love with this invention. Yes, only a guy could have come up with it.
Womanville: For the woman concerned about bringing her purse to the bathroom at work during that time of the month. Try a menstrual cup (the keeper for example). Its a rubber cup that catches the flow. You only have to empty it twice a day (in the morning and before bed), so you don't have to worry about changing it during work hours. It is also better for your health and better for the environment than pads or tampons and it will save you money!
Is this post too graphic even for this chat?
Gene Weingarten: I feel weak. I need air. Now where is that toilet snorkel?
washingotnpost.com: Did we really haveto go here?
You, know: Oswald shot JFK and acted alone.
Damn you know a lot (warning: sacrasm in here).
Listen, I am more sure that Oswald acted alone now than I was 20 years ago. Why? The simple passage of time. A conspiracy would have involved a lot of people who by now would have been on their deathbeds. If you see what I mean.
Soap for leg cramps: An old wives' tale with no basis in fact or medicine: Snopes: Soap Dope.
Gene Weingarten: Sounds like it is a little more than an old wive's tale, actually. The accretion of enough anecdotal evidence sometimes amounts to common wisdom, and common wisdom is often medically right.
One Last Poll Question: If you give me the $2 mil before taking the time trip, I can buy out Van Gogh.
Gene Weingarten: Are you kidding? Two grand probably would have done the trick. Vincent was penniless, and no one thought he was any good, except his brother.
Gualledet: At least it's a quiet protest.
Baltimore, Md.: Great, GREAT idea for the dog book. I'll look forward to it. One little nit, though: While I love all dogs, my preference is for the bigger ones (Boxers, Shepards, Danes, etc.), which tend to have a shorter lifespan. I would argue, then, that a 10-year-old Boxer is "older" than a same-aged Jack Russell. They've more character, "knowledge" and range of emotion. Smaller dogs tend to live to 15, 16 and older and don't acquire the same attributes till they're maybe 12 or 13. So I hope your book notes this and is a bit skewed toward bigger dogs.
Gene Weingarten: I think we will find that most of the large breed dogs we use will be closer to 10 or 11years old. And that the pipsqueaks will be 14 and over.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Post columnist Gene Weingarten answers your questions about his column, "Below the Beltway," and more. Funny? You should ask.
| 578.346154 | 1 | 3.076923 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400662.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/04/DI2006050400662.html
|
What's Cooking
|
2006050919
|
Calling all foodies! Join us for another edition of What's Cooking , our live online culinary hour with Kim O'Donnel .
A graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education (formerly known as Peter Kump's New York Cooking School), Kim spends much of her time in front of the stove or with her nose in a cookbook.
Catch up on previous transcripts with the What's Cooking archive page .
Kim O'Donnel: Greetings, cookers. I hope you're gearing up to honor and celebrate MAMA this weekend or some equally important woman in your life. This Sunday, May 14, all day, is Mother's Day. I'll be making a pilgrimage this weekend to fete my grande dame and and one of her gal pals. I'll prepare a brunch-y sort of thing rather than trying to jam into a crowded restaurant. Time Magazine 100 issue came out, and look who made the list. Can you guess? If I say "yumm-o" does that ring a bell? Tell me what you think. In other news, the James Beard Foundation journalism awards (the Oscar equivalent in the food journalism world) were announced and Sarah Dickerman, who writes for washingtonpost.com sister pub, Slate, earned a prize. Congrats to her and the other winners. Next week, I'll be with you twice, first for the regular gig then again on Friday May 19, from Monterey, Calif. , where I'm attending a conference on sustainable seafood and agriculture. Hope to give you the latest and greatest tidbits. Now, let's chew...
Greenbelt, Md.: Hi Kim! Do you know if naturally decaffeinated black tea has as many anti-oxidants as regular black tea?
Kim O'Donnel: I am not aware that stripping tea of its caffeine would also strip it of its antioxidant value. For a real antioxidant bang for your buck, though, consider green tea.
Silver Spring, Md.: This is my first spring in the Washington area. I loved the Takoma Park farmers market last summer and fall, but the pickin's seem to be a bit slim this time of year -- what's in season locally right now and what are some good ideas for cooking with local, seasonal ingredients? I moved here from Texas where we had much, much less variety of local stuff.
Kim O'Donnel: Well, Silver, you won't have to wait for long. Remember, the season is just kicking off, so hold your horses. Right now, you'll see strawberries, asparagus, green garlic, lettuces, chives, leeks. I had some of the most amazing asparagus, possibly the best of my life, from Dupont market last week. Unreal flavor. Slathered with olive oil, salt and pepper, and grilled it. Wowee. By the way, Columbia Pike farm market is now open (10am-2pm) and Clarendon market opens May 24 (Wednesday, 3-7pm).
I've read several articles recently about the demise of butcher shops in the U.S., in large part due to the success of large supermarket chains, pre-packaged meat, etc. At the same time, there's a small but growing demand for lesser-known cuts of meat (hanger steaks, pork belly, etc.) that are both cheaper and often more flavorful. The problem is finding them, even in the D.C. area where we have relatively good access to quality ingredients. What places or butchers in the D.C. area would you recommend for good yet affordable cuts of meat? I'm familiar with the Latin meat market on Wilson Blvd in Arlington and Eastern Market -- but what places am I'm overlooking? Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: You can talk to Pam the butcher at Brookeville Market in Cleveland Park and head over to upper NW to Wagshal's. You may also want to try Halal butchers, who often charge much less than what's in store. I also highly recommend heading to your neighborhood farm market, where local farms are selling interesting cuts of beef, lamb, pork, goat, buffalo. Prices vary, but it's an education to talk to the people who are integrally involved with the process of raising and ultimately, slaughtering their own livestock.
Bethesda, Md.: I'd like to make a salad to go with Mexican food this weekend (enchiladas). You know, something with corn, and avocado, and crunchy corn chips on top. What kind of dressing to use, though? I don't like ranch or anything mayonnaise-y. Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: I would do a lime-y vinaigrette, with some cumin and red onion. Start with lime, add onion, salt. Gradually integrate olive oil. Tequila would be nice in this, too.
Do you know where I can buy nut-free chocolate (either chocolates or for cooking) in D.C.? Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: Nut-free chocolate is readily available. A good selection can be had at Whole Foods, for starters. You can also have a peek at places like Sur la Table or Dean & Deluca.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Kim,In a previous chat you mentioned how you make chicken salad using yogurt instead of mayo. Would the yogurt be a good substitute to make tuna salad or would that just taste too weird? I haven't tried it, but don't really want to experiment and waste food. Thanks.
Kim O'Donnel: No, it wouldn't be weird at all. You can add some dijon to the yogurt to add some tang, or curry powder. Start with a few tablespoons in a bowl, add mustard to it, stir to integrate. You may need some salt, even some lemon to lighten it up. I don't think you'll feel like it's been a waste.
In the bottom of my rice bowl....: Kim, how is it that something so simple can turn out to be so hard...Last night I tried to make Coconut Jasmine Rice,
put all ingredients into pot bring to simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes.
Ugh...my rice was not cooked had to add more chix stock cook longer and it turned out very wet and sticky, should I have brought to a boil first and then simmer?
Kim O'Donnel: It's a tad bit less liquid than what you need, dear. Next time, make sure that for 1 cup of rice, you have minimum 1 1/3 cups liquid, so you were a bit off. That's ok. There's always next time. You can bring everything to a boil together, then cover, let simmer til cooked.
Spice of Life: Hi Kim,
Was wondering-if you had to pick one spice you couldn't do without what would it be?
Kim O'Donnel: Wow. I think it would be cumin. I use it with great regularity, and it surfaces in many cuisines -- Mideast, Indian, Latin, Caribbean...and ground coriander is probably a close second. What about you guys? Spices? And strictly spices, no herbs, at least for now.
Dipping chocolate?: Hey, Kim! I'd like to try my hand at making dark-chocolate covered strawberries, but I'm not sure what kind of dipping chocolate I should be using. Last summer I tried using the melting mold things you buy at places like AC Moore and while they melted nicely, the taste was not that great. Any suggestions for dark chocolate dipping? Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: There's not a special kind of chocolate for dipping, dear, but you do have to do a little bit more than just melting it if you want a smooth, glistenining finish. Pick a block of chocolate that suits your fancy -- dark chocolate is anything above 55 percent cocoa fat. You melt it, then you gotta keep it around 115 degrees in order for it to be primed up for dipping. YOu should have something set up for dipped items -- a rack or a parchment-lined tray. Most dipped stuff, once cooled, needs to be stored in fridged and covered. Chocolate-dipped stuff is ultra sensitive to temperature, fridge odors and humidity, fyi.
Yumm-o: Can't say that I'm excited about Rachael Ray being among the Time 100. Should Alice Waters be in it every year? That said, if Ray's getting more people to cook, that's a good thing.
Kim O'Donnel: Yeah, as you know, I'm all for more people cooking. And then we enter the murky topic of how we define the word 'cooking.' Is it assembly of pre-fabbed items picked up from the gourmet counter? Is it bringing home a bucket of wings and making your own slaw to go with? Is it cracking up a can of black beans and eating out of the can? I don't know. I've been wrestling with this very debate myself.
Alexandria, Va: I'm looking for a good place to buy fresh fish, preferably close to home. I live in south Alexandria (near Belle View, off the Parkway). The fish always looks a bit iffy in my local chains. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: Don't know if this is too far, but Slavin's, off 395 on Glebe Road is a good bet. Anyone with options even closer to this reader's home?
Spice I couldn't do without.: Black pepper! That ones a no-brainer!
Kim O'Donnel: Spice votes are coming in...
re: Spices: Paprika and Red Pepper Flakes, I use them for so many dishes...
Rochester, NY: My favorite spice is paprika. I use it on most meats I roast and its great on twice baked potatoes and mac and cheese.
Kim O'Donnel: Thanks, Rochester. I too enjoy my paprika stash...
I bought some fresh sage. I have never used it before and was wondering if you have any recipes to suggest with chicken. Also, what vegetables does it pair well with?
Kim O'Donnel: Hey there, sage is pretty strong, so use it mindfully. You certainly can stuff some inside a roast chicken, but I might also mix it with something else like rosemary to round things out. My favorite thing to do with sage is to fry the leaves up with some butter and pour over small pasta, be it ravioli, penne or gnocchi. As for veg, sage likes sweet potatoes and winter squash.
Boston, Mass: Just wanted to share that I tried the plain jasmine rice with cashews and cucumbers (sesame, soy, chili flakes), and that it was delicious. We added a bit of chicken, slivered and stirfried in the cucumber sauce. pretty good, pretty fast. oh! btw, do you have any tips for cooking jasmine in a rice cooker? my recipe says to soak in water 30 mins, drain and let dry 30 mins, but then I can never get the water ratio right...1.5 is too mushy, but equal parts water and rice (ordinary for asian rice in the cooker) is not right either.
Kim O'Donnel: Reader is referring to a tip I offered up in last week's transcript. See link to archive at top of page for details. Glad you enjoyed, Boston and jazzed it up even more. As for rice, I can tell you I always have luck if I use 1 1/3 cup liquid for 1 cup rice. I cook mine in a pot, but if 1.5 is too mushy in rice cooker, see if 1.33 would do the trick.
Athens, Ga: I love cinnamon! Couldn't do without it. Smells great and always reminds me of baking sticky buns with my mom when I was a kid. Great stuff!
Kim O'Donnel: Cinnamon has been studied for its effectiveness as a cholesterol-reducing wonder. Seems if we have a little cinn in our diet every day, we could keep those digits at bay...
I second the saute-n-pasta maneuver too.
Also, use in a bouquet garni when cooking white beans - they pick up the flavor nicely.
Kim O'Donnel: Ooh, onion and sage, nice. And of course, yes, white beans LOVE sage. Nice tips, dear.
Washington, D.C.: I've been buying a lot of carrots of late, mostly to put in a baking dish for an hour plus at 350 with some parsnips, sweet potatoes, garlic and leeks. I've been purchasing the bunches that still have the greens attached. I've read in some cookbooks (Joy o' Cooking and Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone) that you can keep the greens for use later, but they never mentioned what, exactly, I should do with them. Can I use them like parsley? Put them in my hat and look like a dumpy Victorian drag queen?
Kim O'Donnel: I like the idea of a costume, yes indeed. Hmm. I have never cooked up carrot greens. Tops of root vegetables are used all the time in other countries -- turnip greens, taro root greens, beet greens, so yes, of course, it's worth a whirl. I might do something simple, like a quick boil, then swirl them in olive oil, salt, sauteed onion, and some ginger. See what you think.
Washington, DC: Re nut-free chocolate. Does the reader mean just "without nuts" or is he/she looking for something that's OK for people with nut allergies, i.e., not from a factory where nuts are handled? That would make a big difference in what is available, I'd think. Your answer didn't specify which you understood the question to mean.
Kim O'Donnel: Ah, good point. Then in this case, it's imperative to buy chocolate that's got label on it with those kind of details, not the blocks wrapped in plastic as I've mentioned in past.
Rachey Ray: Can get on my nerves yes, but if you watch her she's not putting together a ton of premade stuff. It's not fancy, but there are fresh ingredients, etc. going on. I think a lot of people take to her and Barefoot Contessa because the recipes don't take a lot of ingredients and don't have a lot of steps. Of course this is still cooking though. It seems like cooking is becoming something of a snobby hobby ... people like Alice Waters are wonderful and amazing, but at the end of the day we all cook to feed ourselves. Not just for entertainment or to demonstrate an art form.
Kim O'Donnel: Cooking can be whatever you want it to be. If it keep you from eating out of a bag from a drive-thru counter or from a frozen dinner on a regular basis, then I say, rock on. There are all kinds of ways to approach the kitchen, and much of what we see on television and other mediums is the power of marketing. RR and Mr. Bam do really well because they have amazing PR machines behind them. Alice Waters may not be for everyone, but don't forget she was one of the first people to get this country to start looking at food that wasn't coming out of a box.
spices--flavored salts!: My new favorites are the flavored salts I've picked up in my recent travels to France and Japan. The blends are unlike anything I've seen in the states, and the Japanese garlic salt puts our domestic varieties to shame! I use them in eggs, salads, on chicken or beef before grilling, and with good olive oil for dipping bread.
Kim O'Donnel: Interesting you mention flavored salts. I have one from a good friend in Denmark, and I love using it to season fish. Thanks for the reminder.
It'll be great to have you back in Philly for a weekend!!
Re Rachel Ray ... so in the mind of Time, she's done more for "cooking" than Alice Waters, Julia Child, James Beard, Emeril, Bobby Flay ... and next year, will it be Giarda deLaurentis? If it's all about opening cans, we should nominate the person who invented the microwave -- that's the most popular cooking implement in America. I'm disappointed in Time's choice ...
Kim O'Donnel: And another take on this debate...
Silver Spring, Md: I second Kim's suggestion of sage fried in butter over pasta. I lived in northern Italy, and this was a staple (especially over pumpkin ravioli). Also, you can chop up a butternut squash and add that and sage to risotto. Top it off by frying some sage in butter until it's crispy - adds nice texture to the creamy risotto.
Kim O'Donnel: Yes, sage-topped risotto. Molto bene!
New to ribs, new-ish to grilling: Hi, Kim-
Love the chats, love the practical (and humor-infused) advice. You reflect your joy in cooking, without any pomposity.
I am a fairly experienced cook, comfortable in the kitchen and always willing to try something. Hubby would like to have ribs on the grill this weekend, if the weather holds here. I have never done ribs, and we are both relative neophytes with the grill (charcoal, standard Weber, nothing flashy). What do you recommend? Tips/warnings?
Tips on go-withs would be great too.
And how long did you do the asparagus on the grill? In a basket, or just loose?
Kim O'Donnel: I'm kind of a boob when it comes to the grill, to be honest, and leave that department to someone with very capable grill hands. There are folks out there who only do the rib and smoked meat thing, and I'm just not there yet. That said, I think I might do a dry rub. Less spattering of saucey stuff, easier to maintain. I'd love some thoughts from this group, because ribs will take some time, and you may need to replenish those coals while cooking to keep things going. As for the asparagus, cooked loose on foil, for a grand total of 7 minutes.
Jasmine: To soak or not to soak? Whether 'tis nobler to wash it until the water runs clear, or suffer the gum and mush of congealed starch?
Kim O'Donnel: Many Asian cookbooks recommend rinsing but not soaking the grains. Honestly, I never rinse, and I'm still here and am happy with my rice. Friends who grew up in Asian households rinse their rice. It's what you learn.
Re: Rachel Ray: She doesn't even put the food in her mouth before she starts saying how yummy it is! I believe she is the only celebrity "chef" who's not actually a chef. So, her personality should make up for lack of knowledge and imagination? Too bad... she has the most irritating personality this side of Giada! Bring on Mario!! He's the best thing on Food TV.
Kim O'Donnel: More good bits on RR...
Take it easy on RR...: Time is a popular news-magazine, people. It's not Foreign Affairs or The Lancet.
Whatever they publish will be forgotten in 6 weeks. Don't get your hollandaise clotted up.
Kim O'Donnel: and another, particularly if you're clotted up...
Boston, Mass.: I saw a question about enamel on the chat a couple weeks ago, and just wanted to share that I've tried a couple different enameled pots (Le Cruset, Staub), but that my new favorite is the lodge enamel, primarily b/c its so cheap. I have a gratin dish and a huge braising pot. Works great so far.
Kim O'Donnel: I don't own any Lodge stuff, but have been eager to give it a whirl. They make terrific cast iron stuff and I would not be surprised if their enamel coated line is just as stellar. Thanks for the tip.
Ribs: You gotta do a rub, then cook the ribs over low heat for a LONG time, mopping occasionally with bbq sauce. Alton Brown has a great DIY smoker that involves two flower pots, a hot plate, a round grill and a meat thermometer.
Kim O'Donnel: I think I need to check this smoker apparatus thing. Yeah, agree about the long time. Chris Schelsinger and John Willoughby are great resources for this kind of stuff, and then there's the new "Peace Love and Barbecue" which is a really fun read.
A friend just had a death in the family, and will have dozens of relatives in the area for the next week. I'd like to lighten her food burden, but don't have any of those trusty midwestern casserole recipes.
What would you suggest for a dish that: is comfort food; is easy to prepare on a weeknight after a long day at work; is easy and not TOO expensive to make lots of; keeps well; includes meat; has a little kick to it, flavor-wise? I think a gooey tuna-noodle-and-cream-of-mushroom isn't the way to go here!
Kim O'Donnel: You know, last night was quite damp and chilly, and I wanted something to take that edge off. So I made some chicken curry. Here's link to how-to and background. Lots of cilantro, ginger, garlic and chile. Feels nourishing AND nurturing.
I'm going to be in North Carolina (Outer Banks) with my parents next week, and I've agreed to do all the cooking while we're there. Any suggestions for dishes that might use local/seasonal ingredients? I'm not sure what such ingredients would be, but I'd like to take advantage of them, if possible. Thanks!
Kim O'Donnel: You may see soft shell crabs, dear, which are wonderful sauteed or grilled. You'll also see croaker, a fish that likes a cornmeal crust...for starters.
ribs: indirect heat is a must...Put the charcoal on one side of the grill and the ribs on the other. Put the dry rub on the night before. Take ut of fridge about 1 hour before cooking. NO SAUCE until ribs are done. Flip 3 or 4 times to caramelize sugar in sauce, when they are done. Backs will take about 3 1/2- 4 hours, St Louis about 6ish. Ribs are tough to do on a weber, you'll need a lot of grill surface.
Kim O'Donnel: Thanks for these great tips. I'm taking notes, too.
Nut free chocolate: Most of the chocolate at Dean and Delucca, Whole Foods, etc. is NOT "nut-free" - it has traces of nuts. In case the chatter is baking for someone with nut allergies - and needs chocolate that is truly 100% nut free - try Vermont Nut Free Chocolates. A great company started by the mother of a child with food allergies.
Kim O'Donnel: Excellent tip. I'll have to look these folks up.
Washington, DC: How do people who are scared of preparing fish prepare fish?
Kim O'Donnel: Go easy at first. Do you like shrimp? I encourage you to try shrimp first because it cooks so incredibly fast and results are almost immediately tangible and you feel very accomplished with little effort. What kinds of fish do you like? Email me: kim.odonnel@washingtonpost.com
Kim O'Donnel: Hey, time to go. Thanks for everything, from ribs on the grill to ribs on Miz Rachael. Type to you next Tuesday, as usual. And don't forget MOM!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Calling all foodies! Join us Tuesdays at noon for What's Cooking, our Live Online culinary hour with Kim O'Donnel.
| 203.73913 | 0.913043 | 9 |
high
|
medium
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600776.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600776.html
|
Lean Plate Club (Updated 5.11.06)
|
2006050919
|
Daily Updates: 5.10.06 | 5.11.06
Welcome to The Lean Plate Club, hosted by Washington Post health and nutrition writer Sally Squires. Share your tips on healthy recipes, meal plans, sugar alternatives and resisting overeating with other readers.
Now that the school bell is ringing for many kids, there's a morning time crunch at home that often leaves little time for breakfast. How do you entice your kids to the table -- and make sure that they eat the food that will help boost their performance in school? And what can you eat in the morning to feel sharper on the job? During today's discussion, Sally will share tips to keep your family well nourished as school starts and life goes from the lazy days of summer to the fast pace of fall.
On Tuesdays at 1 p.m. ET , Sally, who has a master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University, leads a lively discussion for readers looking for new ways to eat smarter and move around more throughout the day. The Lean Plate Club is dedicated to healthy living -- whether you're trying to whittle your waistline or simply maintain it.
We want to hear your tips, strategies, meal plans, successes, setbacks and more. Of course Sally will be happy to answer questions and turn others over to the Club. None of this, however, is a substitute for medical advice.
Squires is a veteran health reporter for The Washington Post. She is co-author of "The Stoplight Diet for Children" and author of "Secrets of the Lean Plate Club" (St. Martin's Press; 2006).
Sign up for the free Lean Plate Club e-mail newsletter . The Lean Plate Club column appears weekly in the Washington Post Health section and is nationally syndicated by the Washington Post Writers Group .
Sally Squires: Welcome to the Lean Plate Club. We're off to a fast start today.
The LPC e-mail newsletters should be in your electronic in-boxes now. I had a great time at two events last week: The Society of Public Health Educators meeting in Las Vegas and the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports 50th anniversary celebration at RFK Stadium here in DC. It was really fun to meet so many of you. At RFK, I met three of the LPC families that we followed for the Family Challenge as well as former Redskins football player Brian Mitchell and three of the Harlem Globe Trotters, plus many others.
At the end of this month, I'll be in Florida, mostly Orlando, Tampa Bay and Sarasota. If you'd like me to speak at your group, send me an e-mail to leanplateclub@washpost.com
Secrets of the Lean Plate Club (yes, by yours truly)
The Family Fitness Fun Book: Healthy Living for the Whole Family by Rose R. Kennedy
One Body, One Life: Six Weeks to the New You! by Gregory Juojon-Roche
Fit and Fabulous in 15 Minutes by Teresa Tapp with Barbara Smalley
Quick Flip Delicious Dinners: Turn 10 Easy Recipes into 50 by Ellen Gaughey, MA, RD
You know the deal: assist someone on this web chat. Share a healthy food find--great tasting, of course--tell us about a new recipe you've discovered or developed (and please be sue to cite the source as appropriate) or a great way that you're fitting in more physical activity and one of these volumes could be yours. Winners are announced at the end of each web chat.
Germantown, Md.: This past year I lost 86 pounds through healthy eating habits and daily exercise. The biggest challenge for me is from the routine and control I have of home cooked meals during school/work days to vacation (eating out all the time; dining on foods prepared with fats and salt, feelings related to "deserving" a splurge on vacation). With much trepidation, my family and I went on a trip to Italy and Greece in April with my son's 8th grade. Most of the meals were pre-paid and the menu selection was out of my control. I devised a plan to eat Bæ everything that was served (although eating all the veggies), sampling only a spoonful of dessert, and snacking only on fresh fruit. I did take a few licks of my husband's gelato, but I stayed in control! This was not a trip for couch potatoes; we averaged 20,000 steps a day (!). I did not feel deprived. Upon my return, I am proud to say that I weighed exactly the same (down to the ounce). Having an eating plan worked wonders!
Sally Squires: Way to Germantown! Not only have you shed an impressive amount of weight, but you've just given us a great example of portion control and being a very stalwart road warrior. Thanks much!
Arlington, Va.: Hi, everyone is talking about the need for eating more fiber. What do you suggest for breakfast so that the fiber does not produce too much gas and burping!! Thanks
Sally Squires: You might find that oatmeal which has plenty of fiber might be easier on your GI tract. Part of this has to do with soluble versus insoluble fiber. So fiber that helps keep you, er, regular, may produce more of the unpleasant side-effects. While fiber, such as oatmeal that helps keep your heart and cardiovascular system healthy is less likely to do this. Does fruit give you problems? If not, that would be another way to boost fiber. Berries are one winner in that arena. For example, one cup of raspberries or blackberries has 8 grams. Recommendation is for women to get 25 grams daily, men 38 grams daily.
oh my goodness: I'd MUCH rather stay fat than be dead or depressed or childless! When I'm fat, life goes on. Life is good!
One thing I've noticed: The word "obese" seems to mean something different than it used to. Perhaps it always had the same technical definition, but in general usage it used to refer to those people who need two airline seats, those people who have to buy clothing at special stores. To my surprise, I find that--according to BMI charts--I'm considered obese. Size 16 on me seems to mean that I'm overweight. Maybe even fat. But obese? I'm insulted when I hear the word obese applied to me. All of this has to do with denotation, of course, not the medical definition. I wonder if America is so weight-conscious that we are simply less willing to let people be comfortably overweight and HAPPY. Health problems caused by excess weight--now, that's a different discussion.
I hope those people using two airline seats would still rather be fat than dead. No matter what our flaws, most of us will fight tooth and nail to eke out a few more years. Even if we have to do it in large clothing and comfortable shoes.
Sally Squires: For those who don't yet get the Lean Plate Club e-mail newsletter, I asked for answers to this question which was part of the recent study that prompted today's column. Thanks for weighing in...Interested to from others on this question...
Reading, Mass.: This is an interesting topic. I would like to lose 30+ pounds and on top of that am now pregnant, which isn't the combination I was hoping for. However, since becoming pregnant, I've found myself being much kinder to myself on my whole body image, which is surprising to me. I'm halfway along and haven't gained any weight and am still in my regular clothes. Now instead of thinking how fat I always look, I say hey, you look pretty good for someone 20 weeks pregnant. I really think that positive energy helps me in my eating, which has been much less restrictive and judgmental as before. I'm very curious about how this aspect of my pregnancy will affect me after the baby arrives. I hope that I will continue to be kind to myself instead of waging the daily internal battle of how could I have let myself get so overweight. I really think that self-kindness is what is helping me more than anything.
Sally Squires: That fits very much with what Yale University's Marlene Schwartz told me this week about some of the findings from her recent study on fat attitudes and about how she counsels her clients who are trying to lose weight. Sounds like you have stumbled on this tactic yourself. By the way, congratulations on the upcoming new addition to your household...and it sounds like you've already done this, but if not, do stay in close touch with your obstetrician about how you are eating and your weight. As you know, there are very special nutritional needs during this wonderful time of life. Hope you'll let us know whether you have a son or daughter!
Washington, D.C.: I don't believe removing soda's from the schools is the answer to our obese children. I think parents should work more with their children to play outside and other activities. Adults should join in also. Most kids now seem to want to play video games, talk on the phone or sit and listen to music. We need to get ourselves and our kids more active. This will help more than removing soda from the school.
Sally Squires: On Saturday at the President's Council celebration, there was a lot of discussion about this very thing, in short, getting kids more active. (And for those who don't yet subscribe to the LPC e-mail newsletter, there are links in it to two recent news stories about removing sodas from schools and a new FTC/HHS effort to cut marketing of fast food to kids.)
Thanks for weighing in. Other thoughts?
Silver Spring, Md.: You mentioned in your last column (I believe) about being in San Antonio and Dallas and going to Central Market. I'm from Austin and I have serious withdrawals for Central Market. Is there anything remotely similar in the DC area? I had to go to four supermarkets last weekend (Whole Foods - a good cure for my homesickness sometimes - Giant, Safeway, and Silver Spring Co-Op) to do my grocery shopping. It's frustrating trying to get healthy, interesting options at a reasonable price here - or maybe I just haven't found the right place.
Sally Squires: I have not yet been to Wegman's but am told it may have some of that Central Market feel. If you haven't been to Trader Joe's, it's a slice of Central Market--interesting food, good service, friendly people...But I must say that Central Market is far more than a grocery store. It's really a community center. You might also try Eatzi's in Rockville--another place that I've heard about but have not yet tried--as well as MOM's which stands for My Organic Market. There are several around. And if you read last week's Food section--now available on-line--you'll discover a local market in DC that sells food both retail and wholesale. It's where lots of people interested in great and varied food find lots of things. But yes, you likely will be burning some serious gasoline to visit all of these places...
Georgetown (DC): Trader Joe's sells "Moral Fiber" muffins that are high in fiber, and yet still tasty. 1 serving (1/2 a huge muffin) has 120 calories.
VitaMuffins are also high in fiber and pass the taste test. The chocolate chip muffin tops have 100 calories per muffin and taste like a decadent treat.
Sally Squires: I have one of those Moral Fiber muffins in my lunch box as I write this. They make both the large muffins--and yes half is plenty--as well as smaller muffins. They are quite tasty.
Other suggestion sounds good too. Thanks!
Bethesda, Md.: re: breakfast fiber.
I microwave high fiber cereals like Fiber One (14g) or Kashi Friends. Cooking it seems to help the fiber digest with less gas produced.
Sally Squires: Thanks Bethesda. Maybe this will also help the earlier LPC poster.
Vienna, Va.: I'm a 30-year-old woman and I can't seem to lose weight. When I work out, I maintain my weight or slightly lose weight (i.e., 2-3 pounds over several months), but when I don't work out, I gain weight.
I know the standard response is that I'm eating too much, but I'm only eating 1200 calories a day.
Sally Squires: Vienna: Are you already at a healthy weight for your height? If not, maybe you're not eating enough...if you fall too low on calories sometimes your body can think that it is in starvation mode. You might try more frequent meals--but well planned and tightly controlled so that you don't overdo calories--and consider trying 1,400 calories per day.
Finally, how long are you giving your weight loss efforts? Depending on the time of month, your sodium intake, etc. that can have an effect. Figure that if you lose half a pound to a pound per week, you're doing well. Hope that helps. Let us know how it goes...
capitol hill, Washington, D.C.: Sally,
I have a BMI of 20. I work very, very hard and watch what I eat to maintain a thin, toned physique. So when I see an obese person (whether it's my mother or my sister, whom it could very well be as both are obese), I think they are undisciplined and a drain on society. it's hard work to be thin, for sure, but why shouldn't the obese work hard? I do it. they can, too. I don't have "good genes" and I'm not "lucky". it's just work.
Sally Squires: The study in today's column found that many overweight and obese people--as well as people at a healthy weight--share your opinions. (In today's LPC e-mail newsletter, I asked whether people would prefer to live a year less or be obese...And some people--about 10 percent said that they'd give up 10 years of live or more...)
Thanks for weighing in. Others?
West Hyattsville, Md.: This topic means quite a lot to me. It is a question of life and better health! For me in particular to see my sisters and friends who won't make time to exercise but complain about their health bothers me to no end. From high blood pressure to heart attacks to diabetes, and buying big clothes, they cannot bring themselves to exercise and eat healthier. I personally have always loved being fit so I can run, jump or move quickly if I have to. I think of the little things like running across the street, picking up something heavy when no one is around to help me, or playing with children and teens when they are playing ballgames (also running around with my dogs). Being fit makes me happy. I try to encourage my family by discussing fitness with them (at their request). I've suggested getting together to have a 45 minutes exercise class or go walking. I've come to the conclusion that you want the end results (being fit) or you don't (and you stay fat and upset). The only reason I'll ever be overweight is when its out of my hands and I'm physically unable to.
Sally Squires: Sounds like you love them a lot, West Hyattsville. Who knows, maybe one of these days they'll take you up on your great offers. Thanks!
Columbus, Ohio: I do my exercise twice a wk - a gym after work, then go home to eat dinner late. I now take dried blueberries or cherries and add pecan halves mixed in a bag to eat between work & gym.Nice change from walnuts. Energy & a light snack combined!
Sally Squires: Sounds like a great plan, Columbus and provides a good example of how small changes can add up to big rewards. Plus, isn't it a pleasure to have the longer days--and more time!--to be active. And for the next couple of months, there are going to only be more and more fruit and vegetables to savor. It's a wonderful time of year...great for changing habits...
Honey we're Killing the Kids: Have you seen this show on TLC?
A Dr (I believe she is a PdD nutritionist) goes to the family house and evaluates the family's eating and exercise habits then suggests big changes on a weekly basis. They also do a computer image of what the kids will look like in 20 years if they continue with their bad habits. It is interesting to see how other people live, how they fight the change but are happy when they see some results (more energy, kids paying more attention in school).
Sally Squires: I've heard about it, but have not yet seen it. Sounds like it's worth a look. And it fits well with the Family Challenge, which will remain posted on our Web site. If anyone visits the parks--or others that are on our Web site--we'd love to hear what you think. Plus don't forget about the healthy recipes. There are five dinners plus a shopping list. And we would love to hear reviews from those who have tried them. I've gotten a number of raves and the credit for the recipes goes completely to our stellar Food section....
Arlington, Va.: In my opinion, part of being fit and healthy is having an open, non-judgmental attitude toward other people. I find that my healthy lifestyle-- exercise, relaxation, spirituality, fresh and nutritious cooking and eating-- makes me more forgiving and understanding of other people's choices. Yes, I care about the physical health of others, but exercising and eating well isn't healthy if it makes us judge others more harshly. Just a thought!
Sally Squires: And a good one at that Arlington. Thanks for putting in your two cents.
Boston, Mass.: As someone who has struggled for years with my weight, when I am fat my self esteem is down in the dumps. I could use it as an excuse to hate myself, or get depressed, but I try not to. The more I succeed and fail with my weight, I know that the ultimate responsibility is mine. I have regained twenty pounds this year after a 27 pound weight loss I kept off for almost two years. When I see myself in the mirror or am back to my "fat" clothes, I tell myself that yes I can do something about it. I say I want to be healthy and happy, and I have the tools to do it. Being fat does not equate to wanting to be dead. It is the struggle to live, and live healthy, and to know and believe that I have to power to do it!
Sally Squires: Hear, hear Boston. Sounds like you are very much marshalling your psychic resources to succeed again. Hope you let us know how it goes...Good luck with your renewed efforts.
Indianapolis: I have a question related to the first poster's eating plan for traveling. I have lost 22 pounds (of 90) so far with Weight Watchers and am coming up on a 3 month (yes, 3 months!) trip to Ghana. I am only somewhat familiar with the food (spicy, goat, foufou - mashed taro or other root, rice) but am really concerned about having some sort of strategy.
The other kicker is that I don't think I'll have access to a kitchen or fridge of my own.
This may be a bit out there but I'd appreciate any advice you or anyone out there can give me.
P.S. A couple of my favorite tips in exchange:
After boiling pasta, drain and return to the pot and add some vinegar to soak up while it's hot. Makes warm or cold pasta really flavorful without having to add much if any oil.
I keep canned refried beans (fat free or any) mixed with salsa in a container in the fridge. For breakfast, put 1/4 beans on a whole wheat or carb smart tortilla and heat in the oven for 5-10 minutes until warm (and I like the tortilla a bit toasty). Top with 1 slice of 2% american cheese and fold in half. Yummy, portable breakfast for 3-4 points (depending on the tortilla).
Sally Squires: Thanks for the tips, Indianapolis. Depending on what you can take with you, you may want to take a stash of healthy snack bars, packets of tuna and dehydrated berries. Best to check, however, with our State Department to see if there are any restrictions on taking food into Ghana. Can anyone out there offer advice about the food this LPCer is likely to encounter?
Arlington, Va: I'm about half way to my goal weight - I have found though the counting calories really was not very effective. It made me second-guess a 100 calorie apple, even if I wanted it. Later I would over indulge in more fattening/higher calorie foods. I recently started just listening to my body, although with one condition: eat as much vegetables and fruit as I want FIRST, then go on to the meal or snack. For someone like me who loves all types of food (and have always been a heavy eater) this has been the most fulfilling way to slowly but steadily loss the weight. Thought I would just pass this on!
Sally Squires: That's such a great strategy, Arlington. And the beauty of reaching for fruit and vegetables first is that they are not only varied and flavorful but are low in calories--unless you get them with lots of added sugar or deep fried--and have fiber and water. Both help you feel full with fewer calories. So you've got win-win going here. Congratulations!
Vienna, Va.: Followup - I'm 5'2 and 190 and I've been trying this for over a year. The only time I've been able to lose substantial weight is when I ate cereal 3 meals a day, but that wasn't sustainable and I gained it all back.
Sally Squires: Thanks for the additional info, Vienna. Have you had a physical exam recently? If not, it's always a smart idea. You might try starting at about 1,600 calories daily. That would give you 400 calories for three meals and two, 200 calorie snacks. Odds are, you'll still have a deficit of about a couple hundred calories at least.
Can you get an activity buddy? Could be someone at work, near your home or even a friend that you could stay in touch with electronically. Set a time to walk just five minutes today. Gradually increase the time until you're walking about an hour a day. And it doesn't have to be all at once, you can do increments of five or 10 minutes.
You might also check out My Pyramid, My Pyramid Tracker, Nutridiary, FitDay and Nutrition Data. They're all free sites that can help you track food and activity. Or sign up for the LPC group that is on-going at our Family Challenge. You can see how your activity matches others at LPC and earn points towards Presidential awards from the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.
We'll post links in a minute. Let us know how it goes...We'd love to hear about your progress. And if there's one thing that I see week after week on the LPC chat and in e-mails from LPCers, it's that small changes really do add up to big rewards. But it does take some time...
Washington: I think I've plateaued. I'm 5'2, I weigh about 143 lbs and I wear a size 8. I workout 4-5 times a week including weightlifting and at least one cardio class a week and softball too. I eat well too and watch calories but I'm so bottom heavy and I feel so frustrated. What can I do to help slim down my bottom half? My waist line is always the first to go when anything does go...But not my hips.
Sally Squires: There are pears and there are apples--bodies as well as fruit. Sounds like you are blessed as pear. You can condition and tone with weights, step aerobics (especially the Firm's tall step), but you may still not ever be as svelte as you may want below the waist. We are all built in our special ways.
As for plateaus--expect those and if you stick with the healthy habits, expect them to end too. It's just never clear how long one will last. But you can rest assured that you are in very good company. Nearly everyone experiences them at some time or other. How you endure them--and they will end--is what separates many.
Good luck and let us know how it goes.
Arlington, Va.: I just wanted to weigh in on the fat versus death discussion. As a child, I was overweight (but happy). Upon entering high school, the pressures of being popular and thin, and the added pressures of my parents and other adults telling me I would look so pretty if only I lost weight, took a toll on me. I began exercising excessively, taking diet pills, and eating nothing but salads. I went from a size 16 to a size 6 in 2 months. Everyone told me how wonderful I looked, but I felt ugly and depressed. I went through counseling and was put on anti-depressants. Since then (6 years), I have gained back all of the weight, plus more. I am now the biggest size I have ever been, but right now I can say that I am very, very happy. Right now, I love myself. Now, and only now, have I started eating in a healthy way and exercising in a healthy way. I have lost 15 pounds, but not because I was afraid of people thinking I was lazy or because people think I would be better off with less weight, but because I want to do this for me. So please, lay off a little bit. People need to feel confident with the weight to feel confident without the weight, and other people telling them they are lazy WILL NOT HELP. I am not lazy, and I was not lazy then. I think the best diet "aid" is loving yourself and surrounding yourself with people who care enough to love you and support you and build you up so that you can lose weight, not try and tear you down to make you lose weight.
Sally Squires: Couldn't have said it any better than you just have! Continued success to you Arlington. Thanks very much!
Alexandria, Va: Unfortunately the fat attitude is way too common in this country. It makes me very upset when I hear "supposedly" thin people make that comment. We need to try to be nonjudgmental with others. It is a huge weakness you are better because you exercise and eat better than others and is fortunate enough to have a metabolism that works correctly. A person may have fewer pounds but they are a lesser person.
Sally Squires: The interesting thing about this study, Alexandria, is that there was very little difference between the attitudes of overweight and obese people and their thinner counterparts. It was a surprising finding to the researchers...Thanks for your input.
Gaithersburg, Md.: Well, not all of us can be Twiggy. As far as the comment about obese people being a drain on society, I am considered obese, but I don't understand how I am a drain on society. I work full-time in a professional position and make a very good salary, my credit score is excellent, I own my own home, I pay taxes, and I help anyone who needs help. Please tell me how I am a drain on society.
Sally Squires: Nope, we can't all be Twiggy...nor should we be. But there is concern that weight-related illnesses can sap our health care industry. And there is legitimate worry that the overweight and obese children of today--now 17 percent of youngsters--could not live as long as their parents. That wouldn't be a drain on society but it sure would be a tragedy for them, don't you think?
Boston, Mass.: For assistance on line, SparkPeople is a wonderful site. You can record in a food diary, gives all food content information, exercise demos, encouragement, etc.
Sally Squires: Thanks Boston. That's another site that has gotten good reviews from Lean Plate Club members. I would have included it earlier but am not sure if it is still free. It was initially no cost, then they charged as I recall and then I believe that it went to no fee. Anybody out there using it?
Weirton, W.Va.: RE: Heavy people. Genetics plays a part in people's size I think. Mostly, though, it is probably the way they have been eating all their lives. My late mother-in-law always had a skillet on the range with at least 1/2 inch of oil/grease in it. My husband was a mountain of a man, large boned, and heavy. My older daughter is large boned, and was a size 10 until she went to college and got married, she now is quite large, and concerns me greatly for her health. I may not live to be 100, (my mom is 94), but I am a size 8 and have not ever been larger in my life. (I am to be 70 this year). I don't eat much fat, and do eat a LOT of vegetables. I think healthy eating does make a huge difference, one does not have to be a fanatic, but one can eat most everything, just don't eat the whole thing, and still not feel deprived.
Sally Squires: Words of wisdom, Weirton. Thanks very much!
Allston, Mass.: In terms of soda in schools, I have to say that a lot of people do not realize the amount of sugar in full-calorie soda. One 12-oz. can of soda contains one-quarter cup of sugar. Nobody in their right mind would sit down and eat a quarter of a cup of sugar, but we are not taught to think about foods/beverages that way. Excess sugar consumption leads to all sorts of health problems, and sugar is very hard to give up.
I did not think that I drank much soda, one or two glasses every once in a while, but when I decided to drop juice and soda and drink water, carbonated water or even diet soda, I dropped a lot of weight. And, while some people are content being overweight, I'm just not. When I feel overweight, I get depressed. When I have to carry extra weight, I am less energetic and I can do so much less with my time. I think that everyone has to examine his/her own life, his/her own body weight and decide whether the weight they are at allows them to lead a life that makes them happy.
As for eating things that you can still enjoy in order to maintain a weight, I have learned so much about this in the past year. Some of my favorite foods that I completely enjoy and are low/fat, whole grain and well balanced are:
I use Kraft Fat-Free Shredded Cheddar Cheese. I find it melts better. I heat up a small portion 1/4-1/2 cup of light beer mixed with garlic (1 tbs.), dry mustard powder (1/8 tsp.), Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp.) and heat up on the stove, then I pour in the entire package (2 cups I believe) of shredded cheddar and stir until smooth. I keep warm on the fondue warmer. This is based on the cheddar fondue that is served at the Melting Pot, and as such, I serve it with granny smith apples, baby carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, celery and cut up whole wheat French bread. It's fantastically fun, and I've had company over and they can't taste the difference! The best part is the cheese is really low-calorie (if you eat half it's under 200 calories) and you get lots of veggies.
Whole-wheat pizza... I use the honey wheat pizza crust from www.foodnetwork.com (a great reference) and I use low-fat Italian blend shredded cheese and all sorts of veggies. I love peppers, mushrooms and onion... but sometimes I go for asparagus, onions and mushrooms.
Also, French onion soup... it's so filling. I use a whole wheat French bread (from whole foods) for the crouton and use a low-fat cheese on top. Served with a salad, it's so delicious and filling.
Eating healthier can be a joy and a terrific experience.
Sally Squires: So many great tips, so little time! That whole wheat pizza crust sounds delish as Rachel Ray sometimes says. And you could also make it with whole wheat white flour from King Arthur. (I have no connection with the company.)
Soup is a wonderful way to start a meal--and to feel full with fewer calories. In addition to that onion soup, it will soon be time for cold soups--a great way to enjoy dinner on a steamy summer night.
And don't you love the wide array of fat free cheeses now available. I'd add fat free feta to that list. It's tangy, full of protein and adds a lot of great flavor to salads with very few calories.
Frederick, Md.: For the person going to Ghana, you can take power bars, etc with you but not 3 months worth. I wouldn't sweat it. I don't know what part of Ghana you'll be going to or what the purpose of the trip is, but there will be a good variety in the food. Many parts of Africa relies on tourism and money/services of Westerners and they have come a long way in altering their food preparation to accommodate our tastes and needs. Eat small portions if the food is starchy. If your luggage allowance allows it, pack FIT which is a food cleaner that you can actually clean apples, tomatoes, etc and they will be safe to eat. Just remember to clean the knife before you cut the food. I went to Kenya and found that FIT cleaned tomatoes and lettuce sufficiently that we had could eat them on grilled burgers. Don't forget your camera!!
Sally Squires: Thanks very much Frederick!
Alexandria, Va: Ok, what thinner people don't realize but maybe alcoholics and ex-smokers understand a bit. It is not easy to stop. It is the hardest thing in the world to take off weight that went on surprisingly easy. The worst attitude to have is the fat attitude. If you head thinks you are fat and lazy, you will become fat and lazy. It took me two years to go back to WW! But I realized it was time. Before hand I started walking and eating better for over a year. I felt pretty healthy when I started. I have a long way to go until goal, but I have to change a life time of habits. It will not happen quickly and it will be the fight of my life, literally.
Sally Squires: And the added complication with food is that you need to eat to live. Plus, it's socially acceptable to eat everywhere these days...Continued success with your efforts. Thanks for being an inspiration.
Fatitude: Totally unsurprising that obese folks hate the obese as much as slender folks do. I think that someday some a genetic link will be found that contributes, though is not the sole cause of obese - vs. - non, but it will be only part of the equation. Societal messages and pressures certainly help obese folks hate themselves, whatever the causes of obesity. However, genetics or not, a fair number of heavy and obese folks simply don't take care of themselves - period. There is a part of that equation that is about hating yourself or not caring about yourself enough to treat yourself badly. And who doesn't want to stop hating oneself and/or making oneself a second or third or last priority?
Sally Squires: Excellent points. Thanks.
I just felt I needed to respond to Capitol Hill's comment regarding obese people and their "drain on society." Funny, I always thought people with bad attitudes and a lack of compassion were the biggest drain on society.
I don't intend to be snide, but I think that Cap Hill is making some pretty grand assumptions about folks and their commitment to fitness. Not all hard work is visible from the outside.
Thanks very much for letting me add my 2 cents. . . .
Sally Squires: You're welcome. That's what this chat is all about. Thanks for weighing in.
Suburbs: My vote--I would rather be obese than live a year longer, especially if being thin also meant I had the intolerant attitude of the person who considers the obese a "drain on society." That person does not comprehend the complexity of the issue, people who struggle with weight issues are struggling with emotional issues, self-esteem, perhaps childhood abuse and who knows what else. Perhaps a little more understanding and support from people like Capitol Hill could make a difference in the life of someone who is obese. There but for the grace of God goes you!
Sally Squires: I think that we should post the questions from the study on our LPC Web site and do our own poll. So watch this space...Thanks!
Charlottesville, Va.: I was very torn about how I felt about today's article. On one hand when I was 50 pounds heavier I remember feeling like "I would do anything to lose weight" and I am sure if asked I would have traded in a year. On the other hand now that I have lost 50 lbs and am exercising regularly I can look back and realize that I was not ready to lose weight before. Even when I was consciously thinking I would do anything to be thin that obviously wasn't true since I was not willing to eat right and work out.
It can be frustrating for fit people seeing obesity hurting so many people and causing healthcare prices to go up but as a former obese person I try to accept that everyone has to make their own choices and the best thing I can do is set a good example of how it can be done.
For me I stay on track by always giving myself challenges. At first when I was losing weight it was all about getting to the next 5 lbs. When I got to goal I started running and participating in races always trying to go a bit faster or farther. Now I am about to try my first triathlon and next year who knows? As long as I have something I am trying to accomplish I can keep myself motivated.
Sally Squires: And that's the real strategy for success--finding something that works for you. Sounds like you really have. And congratulations on being a successful loser! Thanks.
Sound Beach, N.Y.: Just want to say thank you. I just figured out how to participate. -Carole
Sally Squires: Welcome! And if anyone else as trouble participating in the web chat--or has subscribed to the free, weekly LPC e-mail newsletter and is not receiving it--please let me know at leanplateclub@washpost.com.
Washington, DC: I agree "Alexandria, VA." Our culture is so obsessed with body image! I try to eat all natural and exercise so that I will be alive and alert for my great grand children (about 60 yrs. from now).
No gym membership here, I just enjoy the spring weather on the National Mall and eat fresh, local ingredients. It's not a complicated thing! Eat well, be happy!
Sally Squires: Hear, hear! Thanks!
silver spring: Re: oh my goodness....you make the point you'd rather be obese than dead. Well, if you are obese, you will be dead much sooner than later and will not enjoy life as you develop more and more weight related problems
Sally Squires: While weight related illnesses are a problem for many, I'd be remiss if I didn't point out that it is possible to be fat and fit. There's growing evidence that if you're carrying some extra pounds but are still very active that you may have a lower health risk than someone who is quite thin and isn't active at all. So those healthy habits are quite important for staving off disease. Thanks!
Arlington, Va.: To those people who think that the obese are lazy and a drain on society, just sit down and... I don't have a weight problem. Never have and probably never will. My brother, on the other hand, was dealt an entirely different set of genetic cards, and I'm sure he'd take a shorter life over being fat anyday. He's pretty much always been morbidly obese and just spent almost a month in the hospital dealing with a variety of health problems. While he was there, the doctors tried to push a gastric bypass on him because anyone that fat got that way from eating like a pig, right? Well, he's been out of the hospital for months now after no bypass, on medication and a low sodium diet, and has managed to maintain his weight. He's still extremely obese, but even on a broiled chicken and steamed veggie diet, he hasn't been able to lose a pound. If he were cheating, his doctors would know it because it would affect how his medication worked, but he's not. His weight is NOT his fault, and he would gladly live a shorter life if it meant he wouldn't have to feel the judgmental stares and comments from people like you. Yeesh.
Sally Squires: This is one of those topics that prompts a lot of feeling on both sides. Hope your brother's health improves, Arlington. Thanks very much for posting.
Re: Wegmans: Where is Wegmans? I live in Silver Spring and work in DC and have never heard of it before.
Sally Squires: Wegmans is a grocery store chain from upstate New York that is now in Northern Virginia. We're going to try to post a story from our Food section on Wegmans to give you more info as well as a link to the store's home page. Watch this space...
Boston, Mass.: SparkPeople is free.
Arlington, Va.: I really do not see how someone being overweight and/or obese is "a drain on society."
Mostly, I just feel sad when I see very clearly obese people. I don't pity them, but I feel like obesity is majorly an effect of the American lifestyle, and it makes me genuinely sad to see people who are clearly unhealthy, uncomfortable, etc.
The person who says being thin is hard work and others can do it as well is technically correct. However, being literate is also hard work, and anyone can put in the work, but would you so harshly judge someone who could not read?
My point is, often this judging is based on appearance, and not on PEOPLE.
Sally Squires: Good thoughts. Thanks for weighing in.
Winona, Minn.: Hi Sally. Your column has me now hooked on Laughing Cow. Both the original and the lowfat taste great so I have been buying the lowfat. My concern is cost. I pay about 3 dollars for the 21 gram box (8 wedges). Is this in line with what the rest of you lean platers are paying or am I getting a bad deal. Re: Fiber for breakfast. I make my morning oatmeal with organic vanilla soy milk...it adds 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein. It only adds 110 calories and 3 grams of fat, no cholesterol and supplies 50 percent of B12 recommended for the day. Oh yeah and it tastes great...almost like an oatmeal cookie! Ground flax seed is another excellent way to add fiber and is easy to sprinkle on hot or cold cereal, sandwiches and salads, or in juice smoothies.
Sally Squires: That flax seed is a good way to add more fiber. Glad you also enjoy Laughing Cow and yes, it can be a bit pricey. I've seen it in Costco bundled for less than what you've just listed. That might be another source for you...Anybody else found a low-cost source of Laughing Cow?
Santa Monica, CA: Hi Sally and LPCers. I have found that eliminating two things from my diet results in a major clean-up and leaves me feeling better. Those two things are high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and trans fats. I check labels and if I choose to eat something containing either of those two things, I make sure it's worth it. I'm not livestock to be fattened up on corn and artificial fats!! I am amazed by how many things in our diet contain added trans fats and added sweeteners!!
Sally Squires: Reading nutrition facts labels is an excellent habit, Santa Monica. And it is surprising how often added fats--especially those unhealthy varieties like trans fat--can creep into foods. With the new food labels that were introduced in January, it's now possible to have a better handle on what you're eating. And you're not alone in feeling the way you do about high fructrose corn syrup. We're looking for a recent story on that very topic. So watch for an upcoming link.
Attleboro, Mass.: For a quick and fiber full breakfast, use the Thomas' Light multigrain muffins (5gm fiber) top with some organic peanut butter that you've drained extra fat off. Also, Cedar brand wheat wraps, green wrapper, 70 calories and 9 grams of fiber topped with hummus makes a great breakfast to take with you out the door. Thanks
Sally Squires: Thanks! Also, find more high fiber foods via the Whole Grains Council. We'll post a link to that one too momentarily...
washingtonpost.com: Safeway, Wegmans Escalate Supermarket War (Post, April 18, 2005)
Obesity: These comments are interesting. I am not overweight, but I am offended by the comments by thin people who look down on obese people. Many people are compulsive eaters. It has nothing to do with willpower. NOTHING! It's frustrating when people assume something because they can't relate. People have sympathy for drug addicts, why not obese people. It really is the last acceptable stigma.
Sally Squires: It is one of the last stigmas. Another is leprosy--I know this only because of having recently finished a television documentary on this topic....
washingtonpost.com: Sweet but Not So Innocent? (Post, March 11, 2003)
Anonymous: I have a strong urge for chocolates and I also believe chocolates don't make me fat. Am I right? By the way I am 15 pounds over weight. I need help ... toronto- canada
Sally Squires: No, chocolate by itself won't make you fat. What will add weight? Eating too many calories--no matter what the food--than the number of calories you burn. It's a simple equation. And yes, chocolate can be part of a healthy diet. In fact, it contains stearic acid, a healthy fat. Everything in moderation, of course. Thanks!
Washington, D.C.: My general rule of thumb is to stay away from processed foods as much as possible. Sometimes, out of convenience, I do buy them. So, what exactly is trans-fat? How do I spot it on the ingredients list and watch out for it other than the boxes that proclaim "No Trans Fat!"
Sally Squires: Look for products that contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. For more on spotting trans fat, we'll post yet another link! This may be the chat with our most ever links. Stay tuned!
Re: "Drain on Society": I am a size 2. My co-workers make comments about my eating habits because "at my age and weight, I should enjoy life." However, if I ate unhealthily, I would get comments about how lucky I am to be thin and eat whatever I want (I can't, I really don't have those genes). There is way too much acrimony amongst people (in my experience, particularly women) based on their sizes. I have to say it's ridiculous. My sister has been overweight as long as I can remember. We go shopping together and I get a size 2 while she gets a 22. Still, I would never think that I were half as nice as kind or as fun to be around as she is. She rocks. That, and my sister is beautiful. It would just be so much nicer if we could just appreciate the beauty that all people have. If we look closely, we just have to realize that we're all human, we're all fragile, tired, busy, emotional, and we all make bad decisions. I just wish everyone had wonderful role models, like my sister, to teach them what she has taught me.
Sally Squires: Hear, hear! Well said. Thanks very much.
washingtonpost.com: U.S. Food and Drug Administration Revealing Trans Fats
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Trans Fat Now Listed With Saturated Fat and Cholesterol on the Nutrition Facts Label
Philadelphia, Pa.: I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I have always thought of myself as a "fat person." As I look at photos of myself as a child, I realize that I wasn't really fat. But the opinions of others became a self fulfilling prophesy and at age 50 I find myself 100 pounds overweight. This battle truly is one of self loathing versus self love.
Sally Squires: We're rooting for you Philly. And if you read the Lean Plate Club, you already know that it may take some time, but you can reach a healthier weight. And please note that I didn't say diet or use the words thin. Healthier weight means something different to each person. Hang in there. Hope you'll keep us apprised of your progress. And if you need a little more inspiration, look for a link momentarily to some of the successful losers on the Lean Plate Club. Thanks!
washingtonpost.com: Successful Losers (Post, July 25, 2005)
washingtonpost.com: 5aday.gov , National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
Columbia, S.C.: Can you recommend a cookbook (or an online source) that actually has low-fat healthy recipes that TASTE GOOD and feature ingredients that I can get at my local grocery store? I mean practical, easy recipes. I find that my major problem with eating is that I would have to re-learn how to cook. Of course, my experience is with that good-tasting, high fat southern cooking. How do you not cook with butter?!!
Sally Squires: I can recommend many. For starters: Eating Well's cookbook. It's wonderful. Also, Weight Watchers has a number of great cookbooks. So does the American Institute of Cancer Research, the American Heart Association and some links for the National Cancer Institute's Five a Day Program. We're posting recipes momentarily. You'll also find a lot of recipes from famous chefs, including Jacques Pepin, in Secrets of the Lean Plate Club. (Okay, that was a plug, but couldn't resist and it gives me a chance to thank all the James Beard Foundation, the University of Washington and the chefs who contributed recipes to this volume.)
Since we're out of time, if you have other favorite cookbooks, just zip me an e-mail at leanplateclub@washpost.com. I'll put a list of favorites in the next LPC e-mail newsletter....
Sparkpeople: Yes, it's still free! It's a great tool, especially the food log.
Sally Squires: Thanks to all for a lively web chat. I suspect that we will be debating the obesity issue for a long time to come. Winners today are Germantown (who lost 86 pounds and kept it off while traveling), Frederick, Indianapolis, Arlington (who was overweight as a child), Boston and Weirton. Please send me your name and U.S. postal address by e-mail to leanplateclub@washpost.com. If you type your name and address as if on a label, it makes handling even faster. Please also put Winner in the subject line.
Thanks to all. Look for updates each weekday to the web chat. Look forward to meeting more of you as I travel the country in upcoming months.
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: With all this discussion of genetics and weight, I'd liek to chime in and say that it's genetics + choices. I have heavy genes and was a heavy kid, but I'm thin now because i walk an hour a day and watch my calories. My sister, who is very overweight, is just joining a hospital-run weight-loss program. Any ideas on how the 'skinny sister' can support her without seeming to be pushy? I've been where she is and want to show how much I love her and support her healthy choices!
Sally Squires: Your example may have already helped her more than you know. What you might do is to ask her how you can best support her efforts. Some people enjoy encouragement from afar. Others appreciate closer involvement. Let your sister make the call. Then stand ready to do what she requests (within reason of course!) Hope you'll keep us updated...
Shocked and Saddened: Sally, I have been a loyal reader and faithful participant in the LPC chats. I am obese (350 lbs) and am working as HARD as I can to reverse the situation, but it isn't as simple as eat less and move more. I am active with the LPC because it is a safe and supportive environment for people like me as well as those who are fit and healthy. LPC has helped me change behaviors and the weight is slowly coming off. You have editorial control over the messages posted in this chat which is why I am shocked and saddened that you allowed the hateful "Drain on society" comment get through. After today I won't feel as safe here as I once did. It is a loss.
Sally Squires: I am very sorry to hear that you are upset by one of the recent postings. If you read the transcript, I think you'll see that other LPCers did not agree with that member's opinion. This is a forum, however, where various opinions are expressed (within reason of course.) Just as we may not always enjoy the same healthy foods or the same way of working out, I think we can learn from each other or at the very least give each other food for thought. Just by responding, you have already demonstrated your resolve and you serve as inspiration to others in taking these important steps. That's the true spirit of the Lean Plate Club--and something on which we can all agree. I hope you'll let us know more about your progress and that we are all cheering for you.
Roanoke, Va.: I think it's great to see sugary soft drinks being taken out of schools. I'm suspicious that the soda industry might still be benefiting in some other way from this move, although I couldn't begin to speculate as to how. It just seems obvious that they will lose a lot of revenue. I've yet to see a company happily give up a source of revenue without a new source cooking somewhere else.....
Sally Squires: Some of the soda companies also produce bottled water. (Dasani and Coke come to mind, for example.) So yes, there may be ways for these beverage companies to still turn a profit from schools. But I think we can all agree that water is a far better nutritional choice than soft drinks, although buying bottle water probably has about the same effect on your wallet! And if you want to see how other beverages rank on the beverage guidance system, check out this recent LPC column.
washingtonpost.com: Beverage Guidance System (pdf)
Drink Up And Be Savvy (Post, March 28)
Alexandria, Va.: I have a hard time believing that weight has all that much to do with genetics. Of course, a small percentage of the population does have genetic difficulties that make it difficult or impossible for them to maintain a healthy weight. But if you look at the percentage of obese people in America vs. the percentage of obese people in other countries (such as some European cultures), or compare the obesity rates across time, it is obvious that genetics are not the main issue. The main issue is our lifestyle in America - overeating, underexercising, over-processed foods. For the vast majority of people, if they really eat well and exercise well, they WILL lose weight. Genetics is not a valid excuse in most cases.
Sally Squires: Genetics plays a role in such a growing number of things, including weight. So it really can't be dismissed. But...it's also possible to overcome your genetic make-up by, as you have aptly pointed out, eating smart and moving more.
Adam's Morgan, Washington, D.C.: My absolute favorite cookbook is from Cooking Light. In three years, I have yet to make anything from Cooking Light that isn't delicious (the books, mag, and online). I think mine is an older version as I can't find the current one online, but this looks close
Sally Squires: Thanks Adams Morgan. Cooking Light is a very good resource, one that many LPCers have mentioned on this very chat.
washingtonpost.com: Check right back here on Thursday for another update to this week's Lean Plate Club discussion with Sally Squires.
Alexandria, Va.: As a person with adult-onset fitness (I was overweight to obese from early childhood until my early 30's), I think I am more tolerant and understanding of overweight people. I know how hard it is to eat right and exercise, and I know that its only by making health a priority that I am able to stay fit. While I don't have much patience for people who complain about being overweight/unhealthy without showing any willingness to take action, I do sympathize with people who have a hard time finding the time, energy and motivation to do what it takes to get fit, day after day, week after week, month after month. I think the article today is sad, but I don't doubt that people are generally biased against overweight people, and that many overweight people have very low self-esteem as a result.
Sally Squires: What a great term you have coined: adult onset fitness! If anyone else has similar terms, send them my way. Let's start a list. Thanks much!
Washington, D.C.: I started working out about 5 weeks ago. I do very intense 50 min cardio followed by one hour of weights at least 5 days a week. I have only lost about 8 pounds but am almost ready to go into a size smaller jeans and my back fat is almost gone. I am still 40 pounds overweight but am realizing that it is just a number and you can be improving your health and not be dropping the pounds.
Sally Squires: There you go, DC! Yes, focus on the habits. The rest of it will take care of itself. And it's not at all unusual to see changes in body shape before changes in pounds. At the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports celebration last Saturday, we had a workout by a wonderful exercise instructor. By all accounts she was not close to being rail thin. But boy, was she awesome, inspiring and fun. She had everybody moving. Continued success with your new habits.
New York, N.Y.: I think the agreement to take regular soda out of the schools is still a sell-out to the soda companies. Diet soda is not an improvement to the children's diets. The soda companies make and distribute all of the products, so they merely exchange out the products they are pushing. Same volume, same profit...and no improvement to the children's health.
Sally Squires: It will be interesting to see what effect this new effort has on sales of beverages in schools.And as noted earlier in the chat, some bottled water companies are also owned by soft drink makers...Let's also remember that it's not just beverages in schools that contribute to obesity. The food kids eat is also important as is the activity they get.Thanks!
Santa Monica, Calif.: Sally one more thing.. it is so easy for folks who are slender (Cap Hill), or financially well off, or in good mental health, or good physical health, to say.. "it will never happen to me!" Especially in this country we view food, money, health as indicators of sin, or judgments upon our fellow human beings. We forget that only a century ago, we were able to look at the poor and say that their poverty was a judgment upon them for their moral weakness and ineptitude. There but for the grace of God go we; let's work to put our friends in good health without alienating them in the process. It's just flat-out counterproductive to pretend that shaming the overweight will do much to solve our health problems. And it only takes one stressor -- a death in the family, a pregnancy, a broken hip -- to put us in danger of ill health, financial ruin, or chronic overweight. I was the fat one in the family until a couple years ago. Now I'm the thin one. I've seen both sides.
Sally Squires: Reminds me of that great song, "I've looked at life from both sides now..." Thanks for weighing in, Santa Monica.
Midland, Tex.: Just read Santa Monica's comment re HFCS and fattening cows. I am reading The Omnivore's Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, which describes the industrial food chain and how the corn surplus affects the raising of livestock and our own health. It also discusses other methods of food production, but is a really enlightening book if you want to know where your food comes from. I thought I was pretty informed, but have learned a lot from this book. (and am not affiliated with the book or its publishers)
Sally Squires: And let me add some other good reading including Michael Fumento's The Fat of the Land: The Obesity Epidemic and How Overweight Americans Can Help Themselves. Also Kelly Brownell's Food Fight. And Marion Nestle's Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health. (Nestle also has a new book called What to Eat.)
Laytonsville veggie: Perhaps I don't "get" it but how can being fat be a drain on society? Yes, obese folks may have higher health costs but perhaps if EVERYONE at least tried to do their best to be FIT, and have some activity....
I used to be able to run, jump, jog, kneel at church until I had a head on collision in 1995. 3 years in a wheelchair and 50 lbs heavier. I was lucky enough to have a wheelchair accessible pool at Penn State and swim a kilometer every day. I am now walking with a cane, and I just finished 45 minutes of walking around my office building. My new cardiologist recently asked do you just do ANY exercise? I told him I walk (proudly) everyday I can for 30 min. Yes I am jealous of the folks running and jogging, but I am doing the BEST I can. I eat vegetarian 95% of the time, and I swim/jog in place in my own pool when I have it open in the summer. Some weights too. When I had my first heart attack at 34 I weighed 243 pounds, now 252 at age 50...I am doing the best I can. That's what counts, not looking like a bean pole. By the way I was a beanpole as a teen doing gymnastics until I broke my ankle in 11th grade...but I can't do that stuff now. But I remind myself by asking "Am I doing the best I can for my body?
Why can't people encourage folks to do their best, vs. blame them for "laziness" for being fat. Sometimes it's MORE than just overeating...medication, childbirth, etc.
Sally Squires: Wow. I read your posting several times, Laytonsville. You've really been through a lot. And if anyone offers us inspiration--and commonsense -- you do. Thanks very much for writing.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Post health and nutrition writer Sally Squires talked about how to eat healthier.
| 920.857143 | 0.928571 | 4.357143 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600775.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/06/DI2006050600775.html
|
Major League Baseball
|
2006050919
|
Washington Post staff writer Dave Sheinin was online Tuesday, May 9, at 2 p.m. ET to discuss the latest major league baseball news.
Dave Sheinin: Hi, folks. Thanks for stopping by today. Let's get started...
San Diego, Calif.: What's going on with the Oriole pitching rotation? Has the shock of adjusting to Leo Mazzone's style of pitching caused this problem?
The whole staff seems to have lost its confidence and it appears to be spreading to the hitters.
Then again, I suppose that's baseball. The Padres here seemed to turn a similar dive on a dime in the bottom of the 9th against the Dodgers and haven't stop winning, as of Monday at least.
Dave Sheinin: When I talked to Mazzone about this a week or so ago, he expressed some frustration at how the Orioles' pitchers had not yet completely bought into his mantra of pounding fastballs away, away, away. I suspect it is something that will take some time -- perhaps even a full season -- to sink in.
Washington, D.C.: Why didn't Bowden take his cue from Patrick Kennedy and agree to undergo rehab for his problem? While his defiant strategy on the DUI charge might work in other markets, in DC nobody is impressed with the stance he is taking. Regardless of whether or not he is able to beat the rap on a technicality, isn't it a foregone conclusion now that his days in DC as the Nationals GM are all but over.
Dave Sheinin: I would not by any means say it is a "foregone conclusion" that Bowden's days are numbered in Washington. He has been spotted many times this season in the company of Mark Lerner -- obviously, he hitched himself to the right horse -- and there are those who believe Bowden was given assurances from the Lerners that he would be retained. We'll see about that.
RFK: SECTION 308, Good afternoon: With the decline in Nationals attendance, would you consider the next 10 game homestand starting with the Orioles, Astros & Dodgers to be crucial to increasing attendance? Is it reasonable to expect a total of 350,000+ for these games?
Dave Sheinin: I wouldn't say the homestand is "crucial" for attendance, but because it stretches across two weekends with teams that should draw well, I think your estimate of 350,000 is reasonable.
Washington, D.C.: The Nationals' PA announcer did a much better job this weekend of acting like a proper baseball announcer (announcing batters by position instead of by number, less overdone artificial excitement in saying players' names, and he even announced a double switch!) Do you know whether this is due to any pressure from management (or from the Lerners), or has he just finally gotten clued in to the grousing by fans?
Dave Sheinin: Actually, it may have been grousing from the press box. All the writers are sitting only a few feet away from the PA guy.
Alexandria, Va.: I think it is absurd that some people are offended that MLB will not have a special ceremony when Bonds hits No. 715. Why would they? He's not breaking a record. The record is 755. I thought it was equally outrageous that people wanted there to be some sort of special ceremony in 1998 when Sammy Sosa hit No. 62, even though Mark McGwire had already broken the record.
Dave Sheinin: You're right, of course. I think what people are trying to do is to inject (so to speak) Bonds's steroids controversy into this debate -- with some justification. Ask yourself this: If it were Alex Rodriguez preparing to pass Ruth, instead of Bonds, don't you think MLB would be making a bigger deal out of it? I suspect so.
Rosslyn, Va.: Dave, I want to compliment you on your profile of Stan Kasten. That was great.
Do you believe that Kasten is going to be able to take the time necessary to rebuild the team from the farm system on up? I think it makes sense to do as such, but I worry he is going to be forced to spend more money on the major league roster to keep the average fan happy.
Dave Sheinin: Thanks, Rosslyn. Kasten is a guy who could have had just about any team president job he wanted in baseball, and I doubt he would have gotten involved in Washington if he did not feel he could build the franchise up the way he knows to do -- which is to say, through the farm system, scouting, etc. You can already tell from his public comments last week that he is laying the groundwork and preparing people for a long, slow and potentially frustrating rebuilding process.
Monrovia, Md.: John Patterson was supposed to start a minor league tune-up game tonight, but evidently is not ready yet. Should there be cause for concern that perhaps his injury is a bit worse than originally thought?
Dave Sheinin: Hey, Monrovia. Nice town... I suspect there could be something to that. When baseball people talk about "forearm" injuries, it's often just a euphemism for "elbow." I certainly hope it's not the case, but if the Nationals all of a sudden announce Patterson is having elbow surgery, I would not be shocked.
CLEVELAND PARK, Washington, D.C.: Could you explain why it takes multiple clicks to access a baseball chat from your e-mail edition? The exception seems to be with Boswell when it's list directly on the 1st page. How many times are the Redskins not listed directly, and doesn't this make it more difficult and unnecessary for fans? Could the Post rectify this?
Dave Sheinin: I will pass along your comments to the proper authorities.
Alexandria, Va.: A rumor heard from a fairly reliable source on Capitol Hill indicates that Bowden has been effectively placed in 'Limbo'. Could you confirm or comment? How does Dayton Moore measure up at the future Nationals GM?
Dave Sheinin: That makes sense about Bowden. It's possible Ted Lerner, Mark Lerner and Stan Kasten all have different opinions of him, and they need time to iron them out. I wouldn't expect anything to happen for awhile on that front. As for Dayton Moore, he is considered a rising star -- someone who almost certainly will be a GM somewhere soon. The Red Sox tried to hire him over the winter, but he took himself out of consideration. I'm sure he would be very much coveted by Stan Kasten, who worked with Moore in Atlanta. But the only question is whether Moore is already tabbed as John Schuerholz's successor.
Re: Bowden & Lerner: Dave, how does this reconcile with Kasten's assertion that the team will be built from the ground up? Bowden and player development/minor leagues are not synomous.
Dave Sheinin: Well, you have hit upon the crux of the issue. Even if it is true that the Lerners gave Bowden some assurances about being retained many months ago, Bowden is not what I would call a Stan Kasten-type of GM. I suspect there could be differences of opinion within the ownership group about Bowden, and the only question is which side would win.
Alexandria, Va.: My friend and I were discussing steroids, the whole Barry Bonds thing and the impact it's had on baseball as a whole. While we both admit that history--no matter how you slice it--will be skewed b/c no one will ever know how many baseball players took steroids in the 90s. But I keep thinking about Mark McGwire. Here was a man who pretty much revived baseball with his home run hitting and now is all but forgotten after his sad appearance in front of congress. I think that if Mark McGwire came out, said he did steroids, regrets doing them and makes a very public (and sincere) display of working towards stopping steroid abuse, the public AND the sports press would forgive him. And he'd get into the Hall of Fame. My friend doesn't think so. What do you think?
Dave Sheinin: It's impossible to say. Hall of Fame voters are a fickle group with all sorts of personal interpretations of what it means to be a Hall of Famer. It's true that American society is a forgiving one. Look no further than Jason Giambi, who apologized (well, sort of) for his steroid use and has been forgiven, for the most part. Still, some Hall of Fame voters have voiced a rigid policy of never voting for any steroid users.
A Place Peter Angelos Still Considers Orioles' Territory: The other night when the Nats' Ryan Church was due up, righty Marlon Byrd was kicking dirt around the batters box when the P.A. announcer said he was pinch hitting (I went back on the Tivo - it was very clear). The Pirates' manager then came out and changed pitchers, while fans at home watched the same commercials that MASN shows during every commercial break. When we came back, Church was hitting, apparently because the umpire wasn't told that Byrd was replacing him in the game before the pitching change. It mattered, as the Nats used both Byrd and Daryle Ward, who likely would have replaced Byrd, later in the extra-inning game.
Question: what is the proper sequence of events during a player change? Was the P.A. announcer premature in announcing Byrd? Assuming he was, should the umpire have made an effort to tell the Pirates' manager that the Nats hadn't yet changed hitters, especially since it was the home field announcer's mistake that led to the manager's mistake?
Dave Sheinin: Hi, APPASCOT... I was not there on the night in question. But it's quite possible the PA announcer jumped the gun and announced Byrd as the pinch-hitter before the umpire signalled it -- in which case I would assume the umpire would have to inform the Pirates to disregard the announcement. Since they went ahead and made the pitching change, maybe it was a case where they wanted to pull their pitcher regardless of matchup.
Leesburg, VA and RFK Section 320: Dave...
I've gotten no traction over the past year from anyone regarding this issue - and I imagine you may question why I'm surprised. It's about Screech and its presence - with cap on - for our National Anthem.
Every night we're asked to remove our caps out of respect for the flag. Yet, there stands Screech - cap on...sometimes backwards.
I know it's a fictional character...but I have seen kids walking around in Screech outfits...so its having some kind of affect.
I think the team that represents the nations capital should show respect to the flag at every opportunity - even via the mascot. Screech should take its hat off or not be on the field for the anthem.
This doesn't need a public response. The truth is, I've never been able to reach anyone in the Nats administration. They just don't do communication. So I've tried through this venue - chats online and e-mail to sports writers.
Everyone kind of chuckles...which is okay, I guess. No need to take a mascot seriously. Chuckle, chuckle.
I just wish I was able to contact someone with the Nats. Maybe now that Kasten has indicated he's interested in feedback...
Thanks for your great work.
Dave Sheinin: I don't have an answer for you, although I agree it's in poor taste for the mascot to wear his hat during the national anthem. On the other hand, it seems possible that the cap does not detach from the mascot's head. In Atlanta, Kasten was known for being accessible to fans and media alike, so I suspect you would get a response from him.
Mount Vernon, Va.: Will Jose Guillen's upper deck HR on Sunday finally stop him from the incessant whining about the fences?
Dave Sheinin: Apparently not, if you read in between the lines of Barry Svrluga's fine piece on Guillen in today's paper.
Help settle a bet. I think that if the Braves division winning streak ends this year, Bobby Cox calls it quits. Of course, my girlfriend disagrees. Any opinions?
Dave Sheinin: Sorry, pal. I agree with your girlfriend. Bobby Cox seems to love his job right now just as much as he ever has -- if not more. I think he would see the end of the division-title streak as a new challenge for 2007.
Foggy Bottom: Is there any hope that the Nationals can turn this season around (ie lose 90 or fewer games)? Or are they going to contend for worst team in baseball this year?
Dave Sheinin: I think the truth is somewhere in the middle. As long as the Kansas City Royals are still playing, the Nationals won't be the worst team in baseball.
Washington, D.C.: Are we unwittingly watching Frank's farewell tour as skipper of the Nats?
Dave Sheinin: Good question. I doubt anything (barring a major collapse) will happen to change Frank's status before the end of the season, and if he is not back in 2007 it won't be by his choice. But new owners tend to hire new GMs and managers. That's just the way it is.
Christiansted, VI: The Yankees can't let the Sox get Clemens, can they? Will they be willing and able to double whatever the Sox can offer him? The Yankees don't seem to have any pitcher who's a reliable ace or near-ace. And even if Pavano and Wright heal up, they don't fit that role. Maybe Johnson will get back to dominating... or maybe not.
Dave Sheinin: If the Yankees fail to land Clemens, it won't be because they were outbid. I've talked to some people inside the Yankees' organization about this, and their feeling is that Clemens is going to sign with the Astros. But you're right about the Yankees' rotation -- it has holes.
Great piece on Jim Leyland today in the WaPo. You referred to Jim as a "vanishing breed" of "grizzled baseball lifers". Who, in your opinion, is still around in addition to Leyland that falls into that category? Frank R. and Bobby Cox come to mind, as does Tony LaRussa, though I wouldn't call him grizzled - not yet anyway. And why are they vanishing and what type of manger is taking their place?
washingtonpost.com: Tigers Respond To Leyland's Still-Potent Roar (Post, May 9)
Dave Sheinin: Thanks, Burke. We've seen a lot of grizzled-baseball-lifer types drop out of sight in recent years -- I'm thinking of folks like Ray Miller and Jack McKeon. The trend in baseball these days seems to be towards younger managers -- such as Eric Wedge, Joe Girardi, etc. The thinking is, younger managers have a better chance at relating to the modern ballplayer. But in my mind, there's still something to be said for an old-school guy like Leyland.
Screech's Hat: I'm as big of patriotic flag nut there is, but honestly - Screech's hat is the thing that keeps this guy up at night? There's SO many more things that need to be worried about with this team, like pushing Screech in front of Metro train.
Natsville, Va: I've really had my fill of the 'glass is half empty' crowd over the last couple of weeks. The complaints about attendance, concessions, ownership, pitching is understandable, but I've waited for 33 years for baseball in DC, and I'm going to take every advantage to buy box seats on the first base side for $50, or sit behind homeplate for $105. Where else in the national league can you do that? Huh? You say the line is long at the concession stand, move your feet to the next one. Ticket line a bit slow, well, there's this amazing device called the internet where you can print out your tickets in under 5 mins on nationals.com. Team not living up to expectations this year? Hey, it's been owned by MLB for the past 5 years, what do ya expect, the Yankees for god's sake! So enjoy them now, they'll get better. It may take a while, but we've got baseball in DC! Yea! Go Nats!
Dave Sheinin: Beautiful post, Natsville.
Washington, D.C.: if Bowden and Robinson are out, who are likely replacements?
Dave Sheinin: In Sunday's paper, I had a list of possible GM candidates -- I believe they were Paul DePodesta (formerly Dodgers), Chris Antonetti (Indians), Mark Newman (Yankees), Frank Wren (Braves) and Dayton Moore (Braves). As for the manager, it would definitely depend upon who the GM is.
Bethesda, Md.: A friend and I were talking about this and we can't figure out if we're wrong, but it seems like most (maybe even all) Major League stadiums have their home dugout on the first base side while RFK's is on the third base side. Are we missing some other stadiums that have third base side home dugouts, or is there some reason why RFK is set up differently?
Dave Sheinin: I don't know for sure, but I suspect the positioning of the Nationals' home dugout has something to do with the proximity to their clubhouse -- the clubhouse connects to the dugout via a tunnel.
I'm certainly no fan of Barry Bonds, but... the worst thing about this whole quest to pass Babe Ruth became apparent to me when I saw him this weekend past. He's hobbled. He's a liability to his team. The Phils hit a couple balls out to him that became doubles simply because he couldn't get to them. At the plate, his swing has no fluidity... he's waving and chopping at pitches... or as a scout said this spring, "his swing is all arm." Because of his upper body strength, when he gets hold of one, watch out... but the rest of the time, he really looked futile. If he wasn't such a jerk, I would have felt sorry for him. Lofted fly balls and weak choppers to the infield. It was pathetic. And the few times he got on base, he was a roadblock... he got called out on one play because he couldn't get out of the way of a batted ball... was doubled up on another EASY force play. Etc etc. There's two outs-that-shouldn't-have-been right there.
Whether or not he did steroids, he sure looks like he's costing the Giants more runs (and possibly wins) than he's creating with his occasional 450 foot home runs.
Your thoughts? And, further, have you heard any PLAYERS or coaches or scouts echo these sentiments??
Dave Sheinin: Hi, Philly... Yes, actually I quoted a scout a few weeks ago in my Sunday notebook as saying almost the exact same thing -- that Bonds's knee is very obviously hindering him, not only when he runs the bases or plays defense, but also when he swings. He has none of the powerful leg-drive that fueled his swing in seasons past. It seems as if more and more people around baseball are beginning to think Bonds will not be able to catch Aaron.
Mascotville, Md.: Seriously? This is something to get upset about? The mascot doesn't take off his hat during the National Anthem? I suspect that you're right, Dave, in that the hat is sewn onto the head and therefore would be impossible to remove. However, whenever I'm at a sporting event, the PA announcer always asks "gentlemen" to remove their hats before the Anthem. Has anyone considered the possibility that Screech is not a gentleman?
Washington, D.C.: Nice story on the Tigers. A Detroit area expat myself, I'll be at Camdem the next three days. Do you see them as a wild card contender?
Dave Sheinin: Yes, I see the Tigers as a legitimate contender, primarily because of their pitching.
I agree with Kasten and the Lerners' long term plan for building up the farm system and gathering prospects instead of diving into high priced free agency without a solid infrastructure. But that plan will probably bring years long pain for Nats fans before success. Will the fans stick with the program? You hear, "D.C. isn't really a baseball town" stuff a lot. Is that criticsm misplaced?
Dave Sheinin: I think it's still too early to say. All we have for evidence is the wild 2005 season, when the Nationals debuted with a better-than-expected team and a better-than-expected attendance total, plus a little more than a month in 2006.
dugout reply: There's no hard set rule for dugout placement. The Cubs are on the 3rd base side and I seem to remember the Indians are, too.
Dave Sheinin: That's correct. I think most teams choose the first base side because it is typically out of the direct sunlight. Stadiums are required to be angled in a certain direction to prevent batters from having to stare into the sun.
Heading to enemy territory: Is Verlander the real deal? Am seeing him pitch tomorrow night.
Dave Sheinin: I think you're going to be glad you went to see Verlander pitch. The guy has amazing stuff.
Red Sox Nation: Finally, the Sox seem to have a closer who can close games (Papelbon). Is there any hope that their suits will recognize this and not try to get Foulke--who never was that great a closer--back into the closer spot to lose more late games?
Dave Sheinin: I think Papelbon's success as closer is making it impossible for the Sox to consider making a change. Even though the Sox could use Papelbon's arm in their rotation -- I mean, how long can they go with Lenny DiNardo -- there's no way they're going to take him out of the closer's spot when he's 12-for-12.
Washington, D.C.: When will the Lerner/Kasten team officially take over operations of the Nats, RFK, etc? Only then will I return to see the Nationals.
Dave Sheinin: Probably some time in June.
Screech vs. Wally: The Red Sox redesigned Wally the Green Monster so that his hat can come off during the anthem. He is bald. He also seems to have put on weight this year. Not monster like. Too cuddly.
Dave Sheinin: OK... Enough with the mascot comments/questions.
Mt. Vernon Va: Any chance the Nats and Braves' farm teams might do a switcheroo? That would place Washington's AAA affiliate in Richmond, and Atlanta's in New Orleans, both of which would be more "regionally correct." Plus, there'd be some nice marketing possibilities ("See the A, AAA and MLB teams in one weekend.") Who makes the call on minor league affilation -- the major league team or the minor league team?
Dave Sheinin: Those affiliations are business arrangements that either side can initiate dissolving. However, because the Braves have a long history with Richmond, I suspect it would be difficult to pull off the switcheroo you propose.
Alexandria, Va.: Could you please tell us the correct pronunciation of Livan Hernandez's first name? I watch most of the games on MASN when I'm not at RFK. Last year the TV announcers said it as "lih-VAHN," stress on the end and with a short "i" sound; this year, the announcers say it as "LEE-vahn," stress on the beginning and with a long "e" sound that is just like the Elton John song "Levon." Which is correct?
Dave Sheinin: I'm pretty sure the accent is on the second syllable.
Alexandria, Va.: I'm sorry, I just can't agree with Natsville. Sure, we can expect a bad team for a couple of seasons due to the hack-job Omar Minaya and now Jim Bowden have done to the franchise and farm, but there is absolutely no reason to EVER accept bad customer service.
Customer service is the one thing even a terrible baseball team can do well, and if we accept it now that sends the message to new ownership that we'll accept it going foward just because there hasn't been baseball here previously.
Dave Sheinin: Well said. For what it's worth, I expect things to improve greatly under the new regime.
Dave Sheinin: OK, everyone... I'm out of time. Thanks again for all the great questions and comments. See you next time.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post staff writer Dave Sheinin discussed the latest major league baseball news.
| 352.428571 | 0.928571 | 6.071429 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801425.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050801425.html
|
Another Possible Bump to the Debt Ceiling
|
2006050919
|
A $2.7 trillion budget plan pending before the House would raise the federal debt ceiling to nearly $10 trillion, less than two months after Congress last raised the federal government's borrowing limit.
The provision -- buried on page 121 of the 151-page budget blueprint -- serves as a backdrop to congressional action this week. House leaders hope to try once again to pass a budget plan for fiscal 2007, a month after a revolt by House Republican moderates and Appropriations Committee members forced leaders to pull the plan.
Leaders also hope to pass a package of tax-cut extensions that would cost the Treasury $70 billion over the next five years. They would then turn Thursday to a $513 billion defense policy bill that would block President Bush's request to raise health-care fees and co-payments for service members and their families.
In recent days, Congress has received some good news on the budget front. A surge of tax revenues this spring, sparked by economic growth, prompted the Congressional Budget Office last Thursday to revise its 2006 deficit forecast from around $370 billion to as low as $300 billion.
But the federal debt keeps climbing because of continued deficit spending and the government's insatiable borrowing from the Social Security trust fund.
With passage of the budget, the House will have raised the federal borrowing limit by an additional $653 billion, to $9.62 trillion. It would be the fifth debt-ceiling increase in recent years, after boosts of $450 billion in 2002, a record $984 billion in 2003, $800 billion in 2004 and $653 billion in March. When Bush took office, the statutory borrowing limit stood at $5.95 trillion.
Democrats will harp on those statistics not only in the budget debate but also when the House takes up tax legislation expected to finally emerge from House-Senate negotiations today. The legislation would extend for two years the deep cuts to tax rates on dividends and capital gains that Congress approved in 2003. It would also slow for one year the expansion of the alternative minimum tax, a parallel income tax system designed to hit the affluent but increasingly pinching the middle class.
Although the debate will be rancorous, the tax measure is expected to pass by a comfortable margin. The budget vote will be closer. House leaders had to pull the budget plan from the floor in April, after moderate Republicans balked at planned cuts to health and education programs and appropriators objected to limits on home district pet projects -- known as earmarks -- and a provision that would limit emergency spending for natural disasters to about $4.3 billion a year.
Appropriators have come on board, Appropriations Committee spokesman John Scofield said. GOP leaders and committee chairman Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.) tried to win moderate support last week by cutting $4 billion from the president's defense spending request and adding that money to labor, health and education programs. But some moderates are still holding out.
"I expect they do not have the votes right now," said Rep. Michael N. Castle (R-Del.), a leader of the balking moderates. "Could they get the votes by the end of the week? I'd give it a 50-50 chance."
It's "health week" in the Senate, but don't expect any big policy cures.
Republicans are seeking to pass legislation that would restrict malpractice awards and encourage insurance pools among small businesses. The three bills are GOP perennials that in the past have met with staunch opposition by Democrats and interest groups.
Given the high stakes of the midterm election year, the prospects this week don't look any brighter. Two of the bills, both aimed at limiting medical malpractice jury awards, stalled in the Senate last night after failing to gain enough votes to overcome Democratic-led procedural hurdles.
The first measure, sponsored by Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.), would allow up to $750,000 for non-economic damages and unlimited economic damages. A patient could recover up to $250,000 from a health-care provider and up to two health-care institutions each for a total of $750,000.
The bill also would guarantee timely resolution of claims by mandating that health-care lawsuits are filed within three years of the date of injury, establish standards for expert witnesses and limit attorneys' fees.
The second measure would target lawsuits against obstetric and gynecological providers and was sponsored by Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Pa.), whose wife won $175,000 in damages in a malpractice case against a chiropractor.
Democrats mocked the bills as a gimmick designed to rally conservative voters and appease doctors and insurance companies. "This is not a serious attempt," said Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.).
The third bill up this week, offered by Sen. Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), would allow business and trade associations to band their members together and offer group health coverage on a national or regional basis. Opponents warn that it would set the "barest of bare bones standards for benefits," as one Democratic press release put it, undercutting requirements to cover cancer screening, well-baby care, immunization, access to specialists and other services.
|
Get the latest US government news on recent federal affairs. Up-to-date information and analysis of federal legislation and contracts. Search for government job openings and career information.
| 28.166667 | 0.638889 | 0.75 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/05/DI2006050501229.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/05/DI2006050501229.html
|
The Chat House
|
2006050819
|
Welcome to another edition of The Chat House where Post columnist Michael Wilbon was online Monday, May 8, at 1:15 p.m. ET to take your questions and comments about the latest sports news and his recent columns.
Washington, D.C.: Time for Role Play!
OK Wilbon, you're Wizards GM Ernie Grunfeld. You just watched your team play about zero defense over the course of six games against the cavaliers. You don't have much cap space, and your only decent defender, Jared Jeffries, is a restricted free agent. What are you going to do to improve this team over the summer?
Michael Wilbon: Good way to start today's Chat, boys and girls. I'm going to look high and low in college and, even moreso, overseas, for a couple of tough guys. The Bulls, for example, found one late in the first round two years ago in Andres Nocioni...The Wizards are going to have to be creative, and that may involve lettin Jeffries go and using that slot for a defensive-minded player, or maybe coupling him with another offensive player (I know, you're all thinking Antawn Jamison) to make a bigger trade. But they've got to do something...something.
Columbus, Ohio: What is it that really separates the cream of the NBA (Detroit, San Antonio, Dallas) from the chaff (Washington, Cleveland, LA Lakers)? It seems that elite teams in the modern NBA are defined more by their 3rd-6th best players than their superstars.
Michael Wilbon: No, it's the other way around. It's the Superstar...and then the first three players. The current day Pistons are the first team to win without a clear Hall-of-Fame player since the Seattle Supersonics of 1979. The true superstar in the NBA disproportionately affects the game. Used to be (until the 1990s) you have to have two of them...maybe even three. Now, because the number of teams increased from 23 to 30 and because kids don't actually learn how to play the game in college very often, you need either two stars (Lakers of Kobe and Shaq) or five or six really, really good players, like the Pistons. The Spurs are sort of a hybrid, having a true supernova in Duncan and a couple of mere stars in Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili.
Charlottesville, Va.: Mike, thanks for doing these chats. I've read and enjoyed them since the late 90s, when Tony K used to join you (perhaps begrudgingly) more regularly.
Having been around this area for years, I've always enjoyed your (and the Post's) work. Thinking back, I especially remember an article you wrote entitled Michealangelo when Jordan came to town. A broke college student, I made up mind there and then that I should go scalp a ticket with a friend. We paid $70 each for nosebleed seats, but boy was it worth it. As I've watched the hype around Kobe during recent months, I've thought a bit about that game and how close MJ was to perfection despite a very flawed team.
Out of just pure interest, I wanted to know if there are any articles or columns you've written that are of particular significance to you over the years. Since this area has gone through some many significant events, it would be very interesting to know. Thanks again.
Michael Wilbon: First, thank you. And second, there surely are themes that have been hugely important to me, but I can't give them to you on cue...Some are merely athletic, like the championships won by Georgetown and Maryland. Some are personal, like the time the high school championship games were nearly cancelled and rattled the cages a little bit with a column that helped guilt some people into giving enough money to keep the games. I don't know that we want to list them here and bore everybody else to death...but I certainly appreciate the forum, and that The Washington Post has allowed me, since 1990, to use such an incredible platform to discuss things that are very important to me.
Scottsdale, Ariz.: Who do you like in the Clips/Suns series? Brand and Kaman could hurt the Suns inside, but if the Suns get their tempo established they could run the Clips out of the building.
Michael Wilbon: I'm totally in the tank for the Suns. I love the way they play. I don't know Mike D'Antoni, the coach, even a little bit. but I've known Steve Nash for awhile...met him in college when he took out Maryland in an NCAA game. Even with 2 MVPs now, he's underrated. He's a great, great, great player. NOBODY could have had the Suns winning a round in the playoffs the day Amare Stoudamire got hurt...Still, the Clippers are formidable. I first saw Sam Cassell play in high school, in Baltimore, and have enjoyed watching him play ever since. He's a difference-maker and a big-time playoff player. Can the Suns run the Clippers out of the building? No. The Clippers, because of Cassell and Corey Magette, can play fast (unlike the Lakers) and because of Elton Brand and Chris Kaman, the Clippers can slow it down and play half-court off Cassell's lead...this is going to be a six or seven-game series. (And as an admission, I grown some roots in Scottsdale now, and Mark Cuban has accused me (probably accurately) of silently rooting for the Suns...Maybe I'm guilty...But I also think Brand is one of the best guy's in the league, period. I love this series...and I'm going out to cover the final four games of that series next week...
Laurel, Md.: Watching the wizards-cavs series, it looks like the refs blew a few too many calls on the wizards behalf. Lebron traveling in game 3, Lebron double dribbling on the game winner in game 5, Varejo's goaltend in game six. Being that David Stern was at all of the cavs games in the first round, might there be a little conspiracy. You don't miss that many obvious calls in 1 series...
Michael Wilbon: Suppose you play defense on LeBron for 3.6 seconds at the end of Game 6 and hit two free throws, at home, in Game 7. You want to address those two issues?
When Bonds hits 714 and 715, will it be the least celebrated feat of any major significance in sports in the last 20-25 years?
Michael Wilbon: It won't be celebrated very much, but then again, it's not the record. 755 is the record. So why celebrate 715? Would you celebrate Gehrig's record now that Ripken has bown it up? No. Not only that, people just don't know what to make of how much the steroids influenced Bonds' total...How can we know?
Scottsdale, Ariz.: Mike - what are your thoughts about Michelle Wie finishing high in a men's event in South Korea?
Michael Wilbon: Finishing 35th is fine. It's great. She finished a men's event, which nobody would have thought possible of a teenage girl...BUT...what does it mean for her career? The name of the game is winning. And she still hasn't won an event. Might she influence and even inspire other girls out there who might have been watching her? Yes, and that would make it worth if...But in terms of Wie's own career, I want to see her win. If she doesn't win--and of course, she will--then is it that much difference than Anna Kournikova? Who do I think has had a better career so far, Paula Creamer or Wie? To me, Creamer.
Alexandria, Va.: It's true that the Wizards don't play great defense. But how much of that is Jordan preferring to go with a small lineup? In game 6, Haywood only played about 25 minutes and Thomas only played about 5. Why not leave those guys in the game and let them use up their fouls instead of giving up all those layups? It seems like Jordan's choice of who to play contributed to the Wizards just trying to outscore opponents instead of playing good defense.
Michael Wilbon: I hadn't thought of it, but you make a damn good point, which I will simply let you make here. Thanks.
Sean Waldorf, Md.: Do you believe the Wizards should reward Coach Jordan with an extension? Before he came, there was not much to speak of as it pertained to the Wizards. I realize the importance of the GM too because before Ernie came to town, the same could be said. However, aren't they at a fork in the road? He should not be a lame duck coach next year with just one year left on his contract? Do you think they will use this opportunity to cut ties and let Ernie bring in his own coach? I personally believe Coach Jordan deserves a chance to coach with a tough big man next year with no threat of the rug being pulled out from beneath him the first time they lose 3 games in a row.
Michael Wilbon: That's THE first off-season question of consequence. And I think it's Eddie Jordan and Antawn Jamison who chaged the culture of the Wizards. Those two. Remember, Abe Pollin hired Jordan before Ernie, and 'Twan was THE person who cleaned out the stale air in that room. I know people think he's the trade bait, and maybe so, but that guy is a prince. Any team would be lucky to have him, especially those fighting their way up and need character in the organization. People talk character, but don't really mean it. This guy, Jamison, is the real deal when it comes to that.
San Francisco, Calif.: Just wanted to let you know that I LOVE that PTI is now available as a podcast. My commute is pretty much exactly as long as the podcast, and it makes a perfect way to ease into the day. I still TiVo the show, but it's great for those days when I don't get to watch it, I can experience yesterday's show in the morning.
Michael Wilbon: Okay, while I'm not as technologically challenged as Tony, I have no idea what a podcast is, though I just this weekend asked someone to explain it and I still don't know what it is...but I'm glad you're enjoying it...and anything that distracts from a commute is a good thing, right?
Arlington, Va.: I don't have a LeBron conspiracy theory axe to grind, but it seems to me that traveling has just become epidemic in the NBA this year. Is there any chance that officials this off-season might be reminded of the rule? I hear announcers say all the time how the game is just "so fast," which I think is baloney.
Michael Wilbon: Let's hope traveling is the thing the league targets in the off-season. One can only pray.
Bethesda, Md.: Mike: Even in a losing effort, I will not forget that 31 footer by Gilbert...
I have a question about the Nats, do you think that Lerner/Stan will bolster the squad this year? Or are we stuck with the roster that MLB has saddled us with?
IS there any hope for this season?
Michael Wilbon: No, there's no hope for this season and you shouldn't even be thinking about this season. Stan Kasten is the reason, more than anything else, the Lerners got the team. And Kasten knows what he's doing. I'd look at the summer of 2008 as the time when the Nats can be a .500 team and the summer of '09 as a possible summer of challenging. A franchise that was neglected for seven or eight years can't turn around overnight.
Millersville, Md.: It's obvious that the Wizards cannot win a championship with their current lineup. How do you envision the 'Zards gaining some muscle, and do you think trading Jamison is a possibility?
Also, how do you see Blatche turning out? Could the Wizards let Jeffries go hoping that Blatche will be able to produce next year?
Michael Wilbon: yes, Blatche has to help next year. And Jarvis Hayes. And the Wiz have to draft well and sign somebody with muscle to replace Jeffries, who I like a lot, but who may fit better on a team that needs skill more than muscle. Can Milwaukee, for example, play all those big guys they've got? What is the 7-foot kid in Portland, Joel Pryzbilla (sp?) going to do? He's an unrestricted free agent. The thing that works a little bit against the Wizards is that the Magic and Bulls both have money, and I know the Bulls are looking for size and muscle as much as the Wizards, but the Bulls are reportedly going to be something like $26 million under the salary cap. Talk about a head start. Oh, Ben Wallace will be a free agent, too...But he's what, 32? How much are you willing to give him when he might have only two really productive years remaining?
Washington, D.C.: What happened to Kobe in Game 7? Probably the worst performance from a star player I've ever seen. Do you think the Lakers as they stand now can win another championship, or do they need a dominant center to replace Shaq, since Kwame doesn't seem to be cutting it.
Michael Wilbon: I don't EVER want to hear Kobe compared to Michael Jordan again...and I've done it myself. Jordan would have taken three shots in a half? No chance. Of Ga Game 7? No chance. It's scary how disengaged Kobe seemed during that second half. The right L.A. team advanced. Kobe won't ever win a title with that team. You don't win frontrunning...sometimes it takes grit...Tell you something else: Raja Bell proved his point by taking Kobe out, and lifted his team as well. Is this a results-based judgement? Yeah, you bet. He gambled and he won. Raja stood up for himself, and Kobe won't EVER mess with him again. The consumer and media remember suspension; the guy who gets hog-tied remembers he got hog-tied. But Kobe was hugely disappointing in Game 7.
Washington, D.C. - suns/lakers series: What really happened in that second half? Did Jackson scold Kobe for shooting too much at half-time and he have an all-too-typical NBA immature reaction to it? No one believes it was defense.
Michael Wilbon: No, Phil did not ask Kobe to shoot less that we know of. Not only that, but "Hey, we need you to get your teammates more involved" does not equal, "Don't shoot!" Does Steve Nash get his teammates involved? Yes, of course he does. Does he shoot? Hey, in Game 6 I think Nash took more shots than Kobe did in Game 5...
washingtonpost.com: Michael Wilbon had to sign off a few minutes early due to some technical difficulties with his computer. For those with questions about the Kentucky Derby this week, Wilbon wants you to know he did not watch it. He says next week's discussion will have plenty of talk about the NBA playoffs and maybe even a bit about the Redskins. Stay tuned for The Chat House on Monday, May 15, at 1:15 p.m. ET.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Post columnist Michael Wilbon took your questions and comments about the latest sports news.
| 208 | 1 | 6.6 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/24/DI2006042400898.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/24/DI2006042400898.html
|
Career Track Live
|
2006050819
|
The Washington area is a magnet for smart, ambitious young workers. Post columnist Mary Ellen Slayter writes a regular column for these professionals who are establishing their careers locally, and offers advice online as well.
Read Mary Ellen's latest Career Track column.
Find more career-related news and advice in our Jobs section.
washingtonpost.com: Good afternoon! Mary Ellen is running a little late, but this discussion will begin momentarily.
Mary Ellen Slayter: Good afternoon! Sorry I am a bit late. I'm in lovely Minneapolis today and got stuck in the only traffic jam in the history of the city, I think.
This place is just fantastic, I have to say. Very clean, organized and polite. Parking costs $10 a day. (Try that in downtown D.C.!)
I just have to remind myself what it's like in December ...
On to your career questions!
Washington, D.C.: Hi, Mary Ellen. I should say first that I love my job. It took a lot of work and some luck to get here. My family feels I've achieved a lot, but I have this overwhelming feeling that there's not enough time to do all the things career-wise that I want/need to do and I'm not moving fast enough to get there. I'm turning -- gasp! -- 25 this year and it should seem like there's time to get the master and PhD degrees and work my way up, then retire into a university (having a family on the way?). I've had this plan since I was 18, though not unfolding exactly as planned (in a good way) -- I feel like time is slipping away. Does this feeling ever go away? I think Hax would tell me I'm a control freak and Gene would tell me I'm a nutcase. What do you think? Thanks. (P.S., I wanted to e-mail in response to your "early choosers" request, but when I went home I couldn't find the page again!).
Mary Ellen Slayter: I would tell you that you're a Control Freak Nutcase.
I think this feeling will go away, once you realize that you really CAN'T do everything, and more importantly, you don't really even WANT to. Your priorities will sort themselves out over time.
You certainly can't do everything before you're 30, and no one expects you to. Relax.
(I know. Easier said than done.)
Washington, D.C.: I'm a mid-20s professional with a graduate degree. I have had five successful years working at one place since I graduated from college. Because my rise here has not been as meteoric as I had hoped, I'm looking to move on, possibly to change tracks within the same field and definitely to change employers. Any words of advice on how to deal with the prospect of failure in any new endeavor when I've had nothing but success so far?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Am I being too repetitious if I tell you the same thing I told the last person? Relax.
If you've been doing just fine so far, why would things suddenly come undone?
However, if you currently enjoy that job you have right now, you want want to check your expectations about that "meteoric" rise you're not getting. Are you being realistic about how fast things happen in the workforce?This isn't school, where things are measured out in one year increments, and it's very easy for ambitious young workers to get frustrated in their first few years.
Washington, D.C.: Can you give some general advice about the difference between a government resume and a general one? I gather the former is much more detailed and you don't have to stick to the one page requirement? I have to submit hard copies of my application package for the govt. job, but is it helpful to follow the fill-in-the-blank resume model you can create on USAJobs? Thanks!
Mary Ellen Slayter: That fill-in-the-blank form is a pretty good guide for getting all the right info in there.
Maybe some of our fed workers can offer some tips?
Washington, D.C.: Hi, Mary Ellen. I'm 26 and have worked in advertising, film production, publishing and PR. I feel like I've been eliminating one job option after another, hoping to find the "right" career track, but I haven't yet. I don't want to go to law school or b-school. Frankly, I'm just tired of working all together. Is this an early midlife crisis or am I just bored because I haven't found my passion yet? How do I find out what career path is right for me?
Mary Ellen Slayter: First, just find a job you like. And stay there for a while. Put aside worries about finding "passions" (which I think creates some really counterproductive pressure on people.) Stop worrying about finding a career even. Just relax. (How many times do I get to say this today?)
You already know better than to run off and just go back to school, so you're ahead of most of your peers in this situation.
I recently completed my master's degree and am working a great temporary job for one more month -- which means that I am desperately job searching.
A contact of mine recently mentioned that I should 'come and see her' when my job ended and, from her tone, I believe that she was hinting that I might be able to work with her org -- my dream job!
The issue is that I don't know how to approach her. Any tips or ideas for touching base with someone regarding a job opportunity? I don't want to bluntly ask for a job, but is that the best approach?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Why wouldn't you bluntly ask her for a job? Otherwise, how would she know you are looking? By all means tell her you would consider it a dream job. This is a great spot to be in. Give her a call now rather than later. Good luck!
For the youngsters ...: I wanted to be married by 25, and done having kids by 30. I'm 32 and haven't had a date in four years. Things don't always go as planned. It took me over seven years to find my "dream job," and now I have to hope my boss gets re-elected so that I can keep it!
Mary Ellen Slayter: So true!
Vienna, Va.: I'm considering going for an online MBA class. First off, do you think they are decent? Will some employer look at that and laugh?
Also, I don't currently need an MBA, I just kind of want on "just in case." And also cause it's been weird for me to not have schoolwork to do for a whole year.
Am I wasting my money here? Should I just wait and see if 10 years down the road I really do need one?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Eh, don't do it.
Missing school work and wanting one "just in case" are two of the worst reasons I can possibly think of for getting an expensive degree.
You can take an adult education class in something that interests you to take care of that school itch, for a fraction of the cost.
Grad degrees are best when you know specifically why you want one, and know it can contribute directly to your career goals. You'll get more out of an MBA -- online or traditional -- with some work experience under your belt, anyway.
Washington, D.C. : I think they prefer the online application package (I'm not in OPM, though, so I wouldn't say for sure).
One quick question: I came to govt from a non-profit, but it seems most govt people come from other agencies. I'm always asked, "where did you come from" -- as in, what agency? I usually don't want to respond because it's not in the same particular field and I don't think it's anyone's business really. What should I say? I usually just say a non-profit and change the topic. What is appropriate?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Just tell the truth. They want to know your background. Even if they do mean agency (which I'm not sure they always do), I doubt it hurts you to be from a nonprofit -- unless the nonprofit advocates the overthrow of the government.
Many people in the public sector come from elsewhere. It's certainly nothing to apologize for or be ashamed of. Treat it like a conversation starter.
RE: Doing it all: Some of life's best laid plans fall to the waste side for the unexpected and even better unplanned life happenings. I never got that final degree, worked in that dream industry and a few other high-achieving dreams, but it turns out that the final degree didn't matter that much, my current career offers more than I imagined and it's fine by me. I liken to to never having the chance to take all of these extra classes that I didn't have time for during undergraduate or graduate school. While disappointing at that time, it certainly wasn't the end of everything I knew and how bad could it be if I changed my "life goals" at 5, 18, 25 and beyond? It just means that I learned a little more about myself and that's a GOOD thing! I guess what I'm saying is that the poster should relax and not try to achieve it all. One step at a time and a change of plans it not the end of the world.
Mary Ellen Slayter: Of course I agree with you.
Anonymous: I just started a new job and now take the Metro every day and I have to know ... do the young women wearing flip flops with their suits actually wear them all day? I would guess they commute in the comfy flip flops and change into appropriate work shoes, but that is just me.
Mary Ellen Slayter: Oh don't we all wish they were changing into real shoes, but alas ...
Washington, D.C.: Hi Mary Ellen,
I graduated from a top-tier institution, and I'm in a new luxury automobile load of debt. My family was affected by the hurricanes down South, and I want to stay out of their pocketbooks. Yet, with housing prices in D.C. and inflation it's hard to pay my bills on the average $30,000 salary. I have many skills and went through some job hopping (at one point working three jobs) over the past year, but I wonder if it'd be best to make a career move or re-invest in my education so that I'm more marketable to employers. I majored in English, but I wound up in mostly sales and customer-service gigs. What do you think?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Well, what do you want to do? What kind of employers do you want to be marketable to?
Washington, D.C.: In your recent column on Brad Karsh's book, you mention that he points out the resumes and cover letters are rarely read. If this is the case, how does one gain the attention of potential employers? What piece of information should be front and center on a resume to catch their eye?
washingtonpost.com: Here's that article: A Recruiter Tells What Won't Impress , (Post, March 26)
Mary Ellen Slayter: Your resume has to show what's special about you.
But the best way to make sure your resume is read is to attach it your face, via networking. You want to meet people through professional associations and referrals.
Salaries: I am an executive assistant and might be moving. The salary range in my field is huge -- from $20,000 to six figures. I am at the very top of the range and don't want to waste my time interviewing at places where the pay is low. Obviously, I can glean a bit from job descriptions, but you'd be surprised how many companies hire assistants to top level execs and expect to pay peanuts. I find that nowadays you don't just interview once for a job -- at my current place I had to come in four separate times before salary was even mentioned. How can I find out the salary range for a job before I actually interview? Is it appropriate in this instance to mention my requirements when I am on the phone arranging to meet with the HR dept.?
Mary Ellen Slayter: You're one of those rare people who should always include your salary requirements in your cover letter, as many companies request. If they don't want to pay it, they won't call you.
RE: Former nonprofit: The former nonprofit person needs to relax. The question is typical w/in government. It's harmless and there is no "right" answer. If anything, it means that they are being polite.
Mary Ellen Slayter: I kinda think so too, but there may be other weird tensions in the office that we don't know about.
RE: Flip-flops: Oh please, the vast majority of women you see commuting in flip flops (myself included) change into regular shoes at work. I know your office is casual (I worked in media and I know how sloppy journalists dress), but in conservative D.C. most of us can't get away with it. I walk a mile to work and have no desire to trash my shoes or hurt my feet.
Mary Ellen Slayter: The flip-flop thing is something I usually only see in really young workers and interns. And no, they don't necessary change into real shoes when they get to work. And again, no, I'm not talking about my office, where I pretty much never see that.
D.C.: Hi, Mary Ellen. I'm 26 and haven't figured out what I want to do with my life yet. I just got into an all-paid one-year master's program in something I'm not particularly interested in. Should I do it? I'm tempted because I want to take a break from work for a year, but at the same time don't know if a master's in something I'm not interested is worth giving up my job. Thoughts?
Mary Ellen Slayter: Is there ANY benefit to this master's, in the long term?
Personally, I'd rather be in a paid job I wasn't particularly interested in than a grad program that I didn't care about, but that's just me.
Washington, D.C.: Debt-laden, fresh grad returns ... well, I want a career in politics and assume a law degree is where I want to take it. I just wanted to take time before reinvesting in that, yet with my posts in sales I've found a niche and think an MBA (or even a joint-program) would be an excellent idea that could push me in many directions once I'm there -- from tax law to contract law. I just think that right now I need a steady income and could be marketable to media that needs writers, correspondents, public speakers or even nonprofits that pay well which need eager beavers to tackle an assignment. I'm a renaissance-type and it's currently not helping in the "moolah" division. Thanks.
Mary Ellen Slayter: Then that MBA could really help you. But keep in mind that it will mean even more debt. And don't forget that your salary will likely ramp even in the next few years dramatically even without school. The move out of the entry level happens pretty quickly. Most MBA programs want people to have several years of experience in the workforce anyway.
Also, look at the jobs for which you'll be qualified once you get the grad degree, and make sure it will more than pay for the degree.
Stop trying to head in many directions, though. Start narrowing it down a bit.
RE: Now in govt.: EVERYONE -- always -- asks where you "came from," when you start a new job. NO ONE is exempt, no matter if you are at a non profit, a for profit, the govt or somewhere else. When you're the new person, people want to know about you, and this is one way to find out. People will always ask you questions, don't be so uptight about it all.
Bethesda, Md.: I have been sensing a little jealously from my teammate recently and am not sure how to take it or handle it for that matter. We are both considered entry level employees but she is 10 years my senior and I think feels the need to catch up with her peers. Recently I have been given new tasks, going on travel and getting great reviews from the people I am working with. She on the other hand is still doing the basics which I have since moved on from. Sometimes she'll ask me questions which I answer to the best of my knowledge but then she goes off and asks someone else who gives her the same answer I did. I give her suggestions on how to go about things but she never takes them but in the end she looks bad not me because it wasn't like she didn't already know what needed to be done. That's only the tip of the iceberg for her problems but the chat is only an hour. I'm not the only one who notices this either many don't want to or like working with her. I want to help her because she is not making a good name for herself but in the same light I just want to throw up my hands and worry about myself. What should I do?
Mary Ellen Slayter: I wouldn't worry about her at all. She's not your responsibility.
Arlington, Va.: I have worked for a political office for a number of years, and like many who have cycled through this sector, I am very ready for a career change. Problem is, I'm not sure what I am ready to do next! I have enough money saved to live comfortably through the summer, but would like to know what sort of things people typically do when they find themselves wanting to go in a direction in terms of work. Where does one even begin?
Mary Ellen Slayter: You don't have to quit your job to start that process. If anything, it's better to be employed. That makes it far less likely that you'll just feel pressured to take something when the money runs out.
What do you enjoy doing? Can you test run some things as a volunteer? By taking one or classes?
Capitol Hill: What is it with people and grad degrees? An extra two years of school is not any sort of automatic validation in the work place. Especially, if you are in a field that doesn't require one, or -- even more so -- if you don't even know what you want to do with your life. Throwing cash at a grad degree isn't going to help make any decisions for you!
Mary Ellen Slayter: I agree with you, of course. I'm really happy about my grad degree, but I knew exactly why I was getting it and it has worked out really well.
RE: Arlington, Va.: Temping but looking ... call your friend (acquaintance?) and invite her (him?) out to lunch. Treat it like a pseudo-informational interview. Asking questions like what sort of stuff do you do? What types of positions are available? That type of thing. But make clear that you are in a temp position and that you are definitely looking for something full-time. If he/she describes positions that you would want, make sure he/she knows that. Good luck! It's really not so scary.
Mary Ellen Slayter: Yep, that's what I would do, too. This is networking 101.
Arlington, Va.: I was recently informed that both my assistant and my boss will be leaving the company this summer. My boss leaving was a long time in the making and I've been groomed to assume her responsibilities, but the assistant's departure is unexpected, and I'll have to take over training her replacement in addition to both my work and training for my boss's job.
Would it be inappropriate to ask for a raise effective when my assistant leaves? Annual reviews take place in the fall but I'm not sure I can do three people's jobs at my current pay without hating life.
Mary Ellen Slayter: You can certainly ask. It's pretty normal to get a raise with a promotion.
Lanham, Md.: I am currently in a job that I have no desire to do anymore. Not only am I unhappy with my role, but I am also experiencing a tremendous amount of stress (loss of appetite, insomnia, loss of weight) because of the job. I have contemplated telling my boss that I want to leave, but I know that I will not make the same amount of money at another company, and am afraid that I will have to start out at the bottom again. I have only been working and out of college for two years and am already making six figures. Should I stick it out or should I leave while I still have hair?
Mary Ellen Slayter: No job is worth losing your hair! If you've got the money to live on, put in your notice. You might not make six figures right away, but you'll likely have no trouble finding something that pays well enough to live on.
Washington, D.C.: No one should go to law school unless they want to practice law! It's not like getting a master's degree and writing a thesis in something. It's three years of hard work to prepare a person to be an attorney. Sheesh!
Mary Ellen Slayter: Absolutely! Well, that's all our time for the day. Have a great week!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post columnist Mary Ellen Slayter comes online twice a month to answer your questions about getting ahead in your career.
| 201 | 0.909091 | 2 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/03/DI2006050300835.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/03/DI2006050300835.html
|
Inflation Outlook
|
2006050819
|
Washington Post staff writer Nell Henderson was online to answer your questions on the outlook for inflation and about her story: Rising Expenses Have Consumers Feeling Pinched
Laurel, Md.: One reason for the inflation of the 70s that it is often overlooked is the entry of the baby boom generation into the labor force, which grew about twice as fast from 1986-80 as it did in the 15 years before or since.
Most people today are aware that the earliest boomers turn 60 this year; but the baby boom echo, begun in 1982, has just begun entering the workforce en masse before the boomers have left yet.
My real question is -- most economically informed individuals are aware of the effect the baby boom generation will have on retirement programs. But what effect will their demographic strength likely have when un-prepared seniors decide younger taxpayers owe them a better retirement?
Nell Henderson: Hmmmm. I'm not sure many economists would agree that the entrance of the baby boomers into the workforce caused inflation. Indeed Nobel Prize economist Milton Friedman said essentially that inflation is always a monetary phenomenon_ meaning too much money chasing too few goods. Most economists, including the current chairman of the Federal Reserve Ben S. Bernanke, would say the Fed screwed up in the 1970s through overeasy monetary policy (i.e. interest rates too low, adjusted for inflation.)
As for the retiring baby boomers, I'd note that seniors tend to be voters, so yes, they may have a lot of political clout in the upcoming debates over what to do about Social Security and Medicare in the long run. _
Manassas, Va.: Realizing that no one knows the answer to this question, please give it your best guess. Where do you see the DOW one year from now and why? Thanks.
Nell Henderson: I have no idea! And anyone who gives you an answer shouldn't be trusted.
Washington, D.C.: There seems to be an increasing tendency for people to long for some nostalgic past, but relative to say 1950, the average person lives better, unless one values smaller houses and primitive technology. Are people really worse off, or do they just think they are worse off?
Nell Henderson: I think you're right. People may grouse a bit, but there is no question that the U.S. standard of living has risen since the 1950s or 1960s. I tried to make the point in the Sunday article that some people have a rising "cost of living" because of all the extra costs they've added for cell phones, Internet service, sports club memberships, cable tv, DVD rentals etc., etc., etc. So yes, my cost of living is higher, but so is my quality of living.
Smithfield, Va.: What will the Fed do or not do to curb inflation and maintain the value of U.S. currency?
Nell Henderson: It's not the Fed's job to manage the value of the currency.
The Treasury Department handles currency policy.
However the Fed's job is to keep inflation low, and to do so has been raising interest rates for nearly two years. The Fed will very likely raise it's benchmark short-term interest rate again at its policymaking meeting Wednesday, and possibly again in coming months.
Mechanicsville, Md.: Hi -- My question has to do with the policy of raising interest rates to counter inflation. Doesn't that run the risk of causing the very thing it's supposed to prevent? In other words, if mortgage rates and credit card bills, etc., rise because of higher rates, doesn't that add to people's expectations of rising prices, prompting them to press employers for higher wages? A second, related, question: isn't inflation potentially a positive thing for property owners with long fixed rate mortgages? If my mortgage payment is fixed at $1200/month, don't I make out OK if that same $1200 payment in the future is worth less than it would be in today's dollars?
Nell Henderson: Hmmm, to your second question: yes, debtors benefit from inflation, to the extent that they repay their loans in dollars that are worth less. But presumably that same homeowner is a consumer, and that so-called "benefit" would be erased when he or she has to pay higher prices for food, gasoline, heating, shoes, etc. and whatever else they consume over time.
To your first question, part of the point of the Sunday story was exactly what you're asking: The irony of the fact that a policy designed to keep inflation low (raising interest rates) can create the perception among consumers that "the cost of everything is rising." And yes, consumers who do not define inflation as technically as economists would no doubt love to press for higher wages to cover all these rising costs. But so far, there has been no sign of inflationary pressures from rising wages. On the contrary, wages for most workers have lagged inflation for the last year.
Laurel, Md.: You mention briefly in your article one distortion that always gets me -- the way certain parts of the inflation rate are measured to reflect macroeconomic changes and not the effect on household budgets.
The government uses a hedonic index to measure the price of computers, e.g how fast they are. When I get a new PC every three years, it's usually about 5x as speed and memory as the old one. The government shows this as PC's dropping 80% in three years. But I can't replace mine with an equivalent one that costs 20% as much -- I have to spend the same money for one five times as powerful.
Does five times the power make it five times as useful to me? Of course not. I can't type five times as fast, for instance.
Nell Henderson: You are absolutely right, when it comes to computers, cars and some big ticket items where the price doesn't seem to come down, but the same price buys more bells and whistles over time. But with a lot of consumer electronics_ phones, TVs, cameras, DVD players_I think as a cheap consumer that it seems to pay to wait. The first people to buy the new gadget will pay more, but I know if I wait a while the price will come down.
Bowie, Md.: Business news says the wholesale price of petroleum is steady today. If gasoline levels off at $3.00 for several years, should inflation drop to about the 3% level of the last couple decades?
Nell Henderson: Inflation (measured by the consumer price index, or CPI) was was 3.4 percent in the 12 months that ended in March, the same rate of all of last year. Not so bad historically, but the highest in five years. Much of that is due to higher energy prices. So, if energy prices level off, inflation may fall.(i.e. prices would rise more slowly)
Bethesda, Md.: Now that Ben Bernanke has held the reigns for a few months is he having much influence over the state of our economy - or are there too many outside factors that we'd be experiencing these high costs if Greenspan had not retired. Or is it still way to early to tell?
Nell Henderson: Bernanke has only been Fed chief since Feb 1 and has presided over just one Fed policymaking meeting in March, so it's really too early to give him much credit or the blame for what's going on economically. However his words have roiled financial markets.
India, China: How does the Fed deal with these two growing economies? We have good relationships w/the Japanese and European central banks - we may not always agree about tactics, but we more or less have the same ideas about where things should be going. I'm sure the Chinese would disagree with us a lot. And I have no idea how the Indian central bank operates, or how convertible the rupee is.
Nell Henderson: Well when you ask how the Fed "deals" with them, I'm not sure exactly what you mean. But I'll try. Fed officials meet frequently with their counterparts from other economies, large and small, all the time. They compare notes, analyses, forecasts, discuss banking regulation etc. But the Fed doesn't try to manage their economies.
Austin, Texas: Why does the inflation rate seem to exclude the prices of items that everyone must purchase such as food and oil products?
Nell Henderson: Well there are many different measures of inflation. The general public, politicians and the press give the most attention to the Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI)and the so-called core-CPI, which excludes food and energy. So they are well aware that inflation, including food and energy, is running at around 3.4 percent a year. But they also look at the core rate for a sense of underlying inflation, which has been running at around 2 percent a year for a while. The roots of this practice date to the 1970s, when food and energy prices were very volatile. In recent years, food and energy prices have tended to rise consistently rather than swing up and down.
Baltimore, Md.: What about the building trade? Will it get better or worsen? And the gas ... will it come down and how much?
Nell Henderson: Sorry I'm not a forecaster. But I think it's safe to say that if the housing market cools, as most real forecasters expect, the building trade will cool as well. But so far, it seems to still be very strong. And gas is a wild card, since oil prices are influenced by supply and demand, global geopolitical tensions, the weather, investors etc. Anything could happen.
Anonymous: Are you an economist, or have you checked your findings with a number of liberal and conservative economists?
Nell Henderson: I am not an economist, I'm a reporter. So everything I'm telling you comes from reporting, which is based on the publicly available government data, reading, interviewing (both liberals and conservatives!) etc.
Harpswell, Maine: With the price of energy and some base metals, like copper and gold, continuing to increase in price do you think consumers are adequately prepared for more inflation?
Nell Henderson: Well although commodities prices are rising, they haven't passed much into consumer prices yet. One exception is prices for gold jewelry. But in general, consumers say in surveys and individual interviews that they expect prices to go up somewhat, but not much, over time.
$$ Deval Effect -- Oklahoma City : Thank you for taking our questions in advance, Nell.
I am wondering what effect, if any, the devaluation of the dollar will have on inflation.
Short answer, a lower dollar may push inflation up a tiny bit, but probably not much.
Longer answer, according to the textbooks, a falling dollar means higher prices for imports. That is inflationary for two reasons: we pay more for the imported good, and U.S. producers of that good can raise their prices too and still be competitive. But it hasn't worked out that way in the real world recently. Many times, foreign producers respond to a falling dollar by cutting prices of their goods so they stay competitive and hang on to their U.S. market share. Some would rather lose money than give up market share.
At the same time, a lower dollar should boost U.S. exports.
Savage, Md.: What elements cause inflation (as in the 70s) to become a perpetual part of the economic landscape requiring severe measures to constrict; as opposed to something that happens for a relatively short time and then falls back to a natural, normal level?
Nell Henderson: Two things: Overeasy monetary policy and consumer expectations of high inflation.
If the Fed keeps interest rates too low, businesses and consumers may spend so much that demand for goods and services rises faster than the supply, the economy overheats and prices just keep rising.
And if consumers see inflation is high, and they expect prices to keep rising, then 1)there is a big incentive to buy now rather than later, which adds to demand and 2)it makes it easier for businesses to raise prices.
Think about the stories you've read about countries with hyperinflation where people run around spending their paychecks as fast as they can before they shrink in value, while shopkeepers post the prices on blackboards so they can raise them several times during the day. It gets crazy, both economically and psychologically. That's one reason the Fed has to sound (and be) so tough, to make sure this kind of cycle never gets started.
Nell Henderson: It's after 3 already, so I guess I have to wrap up. But let me say, one reason it's so rewarding to write about economics in The Washington Post is that the readers are so sophisticated.I'm so sorry I couldn't get to all the questions. I've been typing as fast as I can. This is a bit like taking a pop quiz in front of thousands of professors! Thanks for your time and thought-provoking comments.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post Staff Writer Nell Henderson will be online to answer your questions on the inflation outlook.
| 145.666667 | 1 | 5 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700924.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700924.html
|
Don't Feed the Beast
|
2006050819
|
George W. Bush is not the sort of president who reads journals such as the Atlantic Monthly. But at least someone at the White House should check out the piece in the new issue by Jonathan Rauch. For honest believers in tax cuts, it's devastating.
It's been a long time since honest believers argued that tax cuts pay for themselves. When you have extremely high rates of taxation -- say, 70 percent-plus -- there may be something to this claim: When rates are that high, the rich go to extraordinary lengths to evade taxes and aren't motivated to earn more, so it's not crazy to argue that tax cuts might boost tax receipts. But you have to go back to the 1970s to find tax rates that high. When the top income tax bracket is in the 30 to 40 percent range, nobody serious believes that tax cuts change behavior enough to pay for themselves.
Instead, tax cutters have clung to a separate faith: that tax cuts will force matching cuts in spending by the government. It's a faith that Rauch traces to the presidential debates of 1980. "John tells us that first we've got to reduce spending before we can reduce taxes," Ronald Reagan declared in reply to the independent candidate, John Anderson. "Well, if you've got a kid that's extravagant, you can lecture him all you want to about his extravagance. Or you can cut his allowance and achieve the same end much quicker."
Ever since that debate, the "starve the beast" argument has been a favorite of Republicans. It's an expedient argument, of course, since it justifies the tax cuts that voters are assumed to love. But even the most nakedly cynical politicians need policy fig leaves. "Starve the beast" has allowed tax cutters to feel decent.
Or at least half decent. Everybody knows that the Reagan tax cuts did not actually cause spending to come down in the 1980s; most people have surely noticed that the Bush I and Clinton tax hikes were followed by spending constraint in the 1990s; and the Bush II tax cuts certainly have not stopped Congress from spending like a drunken sailor recently. But then the plural of anecdote is not data, and until the starve-the-beast theory is conclusively discredited, tax cutters won't stop hiding behind it.
Well, now it has been discredited. Rauch cites William Niskanen, an economist who worked in the Reagan White House and now chairs the Cato Institute. Niskanen has crunched the numbers between 1981 and 2005, testing for a relationship between tax cuts and government spending, and controlling for levels of unemployment, since these affect spending and taxes independently. Niskanen's result punctures his own party's dogma. Tax cuts are associated with increases in government spending. The best strategy for forcing cuts in government is actually to raise taxes.
One can speculate about why this is. Maybe cutting taxes before cutting spending makes government feel cheap: People are still getting all the services they want, but they are paying less for them. Maybe this illusory cheapening has a perverse effect: Now that government feels like a bargain, people want more of it. But the really interesting question isn't why the starve-the-beast theory is 180 degrees wrong. It's how Republicans will react to this finding.
Just consider the events of last week. On Monday the government reported that Medicare's trust fund would run out of cash in 2018, 12 years earlier than was estimated when Bush came to office. It further reported that Social Security's trust fund would run out in 2040, one year earlier than last year's projection. "The systems are going broke," Bush commented, sagely. "And now is the time to do something about it."
So what exactly did Bush do? He pressed Congress to extend his tax cuts, thus depriving the government of money it might otherwise have used to plug the holes in Medicare and Social Security. In a world with a viable starve-the-beast theory, this might have been okay: Tax cuts could be presented as a way to force the government to cut spending and maybe even to reform entitlements. But if that fig leaf is gone, how can the administration feel decent?
Right on cue, the Senate followed up its agreement to extend tax cuts with a $109 billion spending bill, complete with money to compensate New England shell fishermen for a red-tide outbreak. In the wake of Rauch's Atlantic article, the way the president responds to this sort of egregious spending bill is going to be interesting. Will he have the guts to veto them? Or will he stand like the proverbial emperor, naked in the public square?
|
Tax cuts don't pay for themselves, or force cuts in spending. The president could at least help with the latter.
| 38.166667 | 0.916667 | 1.666667 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700999.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700999.html
|
A Realistic Idealism
|
2006050819
|
Recent events in Iraq and the Middle East have revived the hoariest of academic debates -- between the so-called realists in foreign policy and the idealists. Realists, who come in both Democratic and Republican varieties, argue that the Bush administration has been naive to promote democracy in Arab countries, as evidenced by ongoing sectarian violence in Iraq, recent gains by Islamist parliamentary candidates in Egypt and Hamas's victory in the Palestinian elections. They suggest that, in the storm-tossed atmosphere of the Arab Middle East, democracy will do less to extinguish terror, as President Bush predicts, than to ignite it.
It is customary for politicians and commentators to distance themselves from those responsible for foreign policy setbacks. Because Bush is increasingly viewed as overly ideological and out of touch, the herd will increasingly want to appear hardheaded and realistic. My fear is that, in the process, a new conventional wisdom will emerge that promoting democracy in the Middle East is a mistake. It is not.
We should remember that the alternative to support for democracy is complicity in backing governments that lack the blessing of their own people. That approach confuses the appearance of stability with the reality, betrays Arab democrats and smells of hypocrisy. America cannot refurbish its tarnished reputation as a global leader by abandoning what sets it apart from the likes of China or Vladimir Putin's Russia.
At the same time, we should keep a rein on our expectations. Bush has said that America "has a calling from beyond the stars" to proclaim liberty throughout the world. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice argues that the democratic transformation of the Middle East is the only way to guarantee that men do not fly airplanes into buildings. Such rhetoric is overblown. Just because the denial of political freedom is bad, that doesn't mean that the exercise of freedom will always be to our liking. Democracy is a form of government; it is not a ticket to some heavenly kingdom where all evil is vanquished and everyone agrees with us.
If Arab democracy develops, it will do so to advance Arab aspirations based on Arab perceptions of history and justice. The right to vote and hold office is unlikely to soften Arab attitudes toward Israel or to end the potential for terror, just as it has been unable to prevent terrorist cells from organizing in the West. Democracy should, however, create a broader and more open political debate within Arab countries, exposing myths to scrutiny and extreme ideas to rebuttal. Though some may fear such an opening, Americans should welcome it. For if we fail to value free expression, we forget our own history.
The "realists" are right to bemoan the invasion of Iraq, but that misguided operation cannot be used to indict the promotion of democracy. The purpose of the invasion was to seize weapons that did not exist and to sever a connection between Saddam Hussein and al-Qaeda that had not been made. The failures were of leadership and intelligence, not a too-fervent commitment to democracy.
In Egypt, although the Muslim Brotherhood is officially banned, candidates associated with it nevertheless achieved startling success in last year's parliamentary elections. The government's response has been to crack down further on political opposition -- both religious and secular -- a move sure to engender even greater anger. President Hosni Mubarak seems intent on bequeathing power to his son, but the more the regime is seen to rig the odds, the less that inheritance is likely to be worth. If America values its standing with the Egyptian people -- and it should -- its support for democratic reform ought to be unwavering.
As for the Palestinians, let us be fair -- elections did not create Hamas. Voters turned to that terrorist group only because prior Palestinian governments didn't deliver. Now, precisely because of the elections, Hamas will be tested as it has never been before, and it will be required to do what it has never done. This will create pressure on the organization to refrain from violence and to moderate its policies toward Israel. Democracy did not create Hamas, but it may cause Hamas to change -- or to fail. Either outcome would be an improvement on the status quo.
The debate between idealism and realism in foreign affairs moves back and forth like a pendulum because neither extreme is sustainable. A successful foreign policy must begin with the world as it is but also work for what we would like it to be. On a globe this complicated, even the purest of principles must sometimes be diluted. Still, we get up in the morning because of hope, which cold-blooded cynicism can neither inspire nor satisfy. If all America stands for is stability, no one will follow us for the simple reason that we aren't going anywhere.
The time has come to start looking beyond the Bush administration to its successor. Our new leaders, of whichever party, will face daunting challenges, including that of redefining what America stands for in the world. Their "to do" list is sure to include winning the battle of ideas -- as we should have long ago -- against the likes of Osama bin Laden and Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, halting nuclear proliferation, devising a sensible energy policy, and restoring America's reputation as a supporter (and observer) of international law and human rights. At the top of that list, however, must be a reaffirmation of America's commitment to liberty and respect for the dignity of every human being. Without such a commitment, all else will be in vain.
The writer, secretary of state under President Bill Clinton, is principal of the Albright Group LLC and chairman of the National Democratic Institute. She is the author of "The Mighty and the Almighty: Reflections on America, God, and World Affairs."
|
The time has come to start looking beyond the Bush administration to its successor -- and the challenge of re-defining what America stands for in the world.
| 34.6875 | 0.84375 | 8.34375 |
medium
|
medium
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800433.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/08/AR2006050800433.html
|
Test of Strength
|
2006050819
|
The call came after dinner on a Monday night, as the general was watching the TV news at home. There was a computer problem back at the agency. A software failure had knocked out the network.
"Give me a sense," the general commanded the duty officer over the secure phone line. "What are we talking about?"
"The whole system is down," the duty officer said. A result of overloading. Plus, the network had become so tangled that no one really seemed to know how it worked. There was no wiring diagram anyone could consult.
It was January 24, 2000. Lt. Gen. MichaelV.Hayden was still new on the job -- just finishing his 10th month as director of the National Security Agency -- but he did not need a duty officer to explain the implications of his computer problem. The agency's constellation of spy satellites and its giant listening stations on five continents were still vacuuming communications out of the ether. Their vast electronic "take" -- intercepted telephone calls, e-mails, faxes and radio signals -- still poured into memory buffers capable of storing 5 trillion pages of data at agency headquarters at Fort Meade. But once in house, the data froze. Nobody could access it, nobody could analyze it.
The NSA -- the largest and most powerful spy agency in the world -- was brain-dead.
Hayden called George J. Tenet on a secure phone and broke the news to the director of central intelligence. The nation's two top spymasters knew there was nothing they could do but get out of the way and let the technicians try to figure out what was wrong. The keepers of the nation's secrets now had another one to keep -- a secret Saddam Hussein or Osama bin Laden or some other enemy of the state could have surely used to great advantage.
The next morning, the only consolation Hayden had was the snow: A blizzard had blasted Washington and shut down the federal government, giving his gathering army of computer engineers and techies some time -- without the workforce around -- to bring the agency out of its coma. Hayden's despair deepened as two full days passed without progress. The mathematicians and linguists reported back for duty Thursday morning, only to find a handwritten message taped to doors and computer terminals: "Our network is experiencing intermittent difficulties. Consult your supervisor before you log on."
The crash had now become a security crisis. By noon, at a hastily called "town meeting," Hayden walked onto the stage of the agency's Friedman Auditorium and told thousands of employees -- in person and on closed-circuit television -- what had happened.
"We are the keeper of the nation's secrets," he said at the end of his grim presentation. "If word of this gets out, we significantly increase the likelihood that Americans will get hurt. Those who would intend our nation and our citizens harm will be emboldened. So this is not the back half of a sentence tonight that begins, 'Honey, you won't believe what happened to me at work.' This is secret. It does not leave the building."
Could all 30,000 employees live by the code of secrecy they'd grown up with?
To Hayden, a career intelligence officer who had served in the first Bush White House and had run the Air Force's cyberwar center, the computer crash seemed the perfect metaphor for an agency desperately in need of new technology. But the reality, he would quickly see, was actually worse. Antiquated computers were the least of the NSA's problems.
By virtue of its magnitude and complexity, the NSA invites superlatives and outsize comparisons. Its collections systems scoop up enough data every three hours to fill the Library of Congress. It employs the world's largest collection of linguists and mathematicians and owns the world's largest array of supercomputers. To power the supercomputers, it uses as much electricity as the city of Annapolis. To cool them, it maintains 8,000 tons of chilled water capacity. One of its most powerful computers generates so much heat it operates while immersed in a nonconducting liquid called Flourinert.
|
For two years, Air Force general Michael Hayden has waged a secret struggle to overhaul the world's most powerful spy agency. Nothing's riding on his success but the future of America's national security.
| 20.512821 | 0.74359 | 1.410256 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700717.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700717.html
|
Rove's Time in Limbo Near End in CIA Leak Case
|
2006050819
|
Special Counsel Patrick J. Fitzgerald is wrapping up his investigation into White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove's role in the CIA leak case by weighing this central question:
Did Rove, who was deeply involved in defending President Bush's use of prewar intelligence about Iraq, lie about a key conversation with a reporter that was aimed at rebutting a tough White House critic?
Fitzgerald, according to sources close to the case, is reviewing testimony from Rove's five appearances before the grand jury. Bush's top political strategist has argued that he never intentionally misled the grand jury about his role in leaking information about undercover CIA officer Valerie Plame to Time magazine reporter Matthew Cooper in July 2003. Rove testified that he simply forgot about the conversation when he failed to disclose it to Fitzgerald in his earlier testimony.
Fitzgerald is weighing Rove's foggy-memory defense against evidence he has acquired over nearly 2 1/2 years that shows Rove was very involved in White House efforts to beat back allegations that Bush twisted U.S. intelligence to justify the Iraq war, according to sources involved in the case.
That evidence includes details of a one-week period in July 2003 when Rove talked to two reporters about Plame and her CIA role, then reported the conversations back to high-level White House aides, according to sources in the case and information released by Fitzgerald as part of the ongoing leak investigation.
Additionally, one former government official said he testified that Rove talked with White House colleagues about the political importance of defending the prewar intelligence and countering Plame's husband, former ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV. It was Wilson who accused Bush of twisting intelligence about Iraq's efforts to obtain nuclear material from Africa. The official refused to be named out of fear of angering Fitzgerald and the White House.
Robert Luskin, Rove's lawyer, responded that "just because Rove was involved in the defense of the White House Iraq policy, it does not follow that he was necessarily involved in some effort to discredit Wilson personally. Nor does it prove that there even was an effort to disclose Plame's identity in order to punish Wilson."
Rove expects to learn as soon as this month if he will be indicted -- or publicly cleared of wrongdoing -- for making false statements in the CIA leak case, according to sources close to the presidential adviser.
An indictment would be devastating to a White House already battered by low poll numbers, a staff shake-up and a stalled agenda. If Rove is cleared, however, it would allow Bush's longtime top aide to resume his central role as White House strategic guru without a legal threat hanging over him.
Fitzgerald began his investigation 2 1/2 years ago, looking into whether any administration officials knowingly disclosed Plame's CIA role as part of an effort to discredit Wilson's allegation. The former diplomat had been sent on a CIA mission to investigate whether Iraq had sought nuclear weapons material from Niger.
Wilson reported back that the charge could not be proved, but Bush nevertheless asserted in his 2003 State of the Union address that intelligence existed that Iraq had tried to buy uranium in Africa. After Wilson went public with his allegation a few months later, an embarrassed White House was forced to concede that the Africa claim was not based on solid enough evidence.
Fitzgerald has not charged anyone for the crime he initially set out to prove. But last October, he indicted I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, who was then Vice President Cheney's chief of staff, for perjury, making false statements and obstruction of justice during the investigation. It is unclear if anyone other than Rove remains under investigation.
|
Special Counsel Patrick J. Fitzgerald is wrapping up his investigation into White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove's role in the CIA leak case by weighing this central question:
| 21.8125 | 1 | 32 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050701097.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050701097.html
|
What's in a Name? Plenty If It's Kennedy
|
2006050819
|
It's hard to imagine that Patrick Kennedy would have gotten elected to Congress a dozen years ago without his last name.
It's equally hard to imagine that the media would be going wild about his late-night car crash and prescription drug addiction if he weren't a Kennedy.
The only lingering mystery is why national news organizations didn't pounce earlier on the Rhode Island Democrat's long history of alcohol and drug abuse, depression and a series of downright embarrassing incidents.
The answer in large measure is that Kennedy hasn't been a very important House member. But given the journalistic obsession with the Kennedy family and its tragicomic soap opera, he does seem to have gotten an easy ride -- except in the New England press, which has chronicled his every misstep.
While Kennedy, the 38-year-old son of Ted Kennedy, was widely reported to have held a news conference Friday, it was nothing of the sort. He read a statement designed to elicit sympathy, saying he was going into rehab, and took no questions. This amounted to an age-old damage-control technique: changing the subject.
Kennedy refused to respond to questions about his crashing into a Capitol police barrier at 2:45 a.m. Thursday and whether he had been drinking -- as one Hill bartender told the Boston Herald -- or, as he has maintained, was in a stupor caused by Ambien and another prescription drug. The story gained the whiff of a cover-up when a Capitol Police supervisor blocked any sobriety test.
When national news organizations last week began throwing together their congressman-in-trouble profiles -- along with the inevitable Ambien sidebars -- there was a long list of local clips to pore over.
In 1991, while a state representative, Kennedy acknowledged -- following a National Enquirer story -- having used cocaine as a teenager, but said he had kicked the habit years earlier by checking into a treatment center.
In 2000 alone, Kennedy got into a scuffle with an airport security guard, who said he shoved her during an argument about oversize luggage; admitted taking antidepressants; was accused by a charter company of causing $28,000 in damage to a rented sailboat; and, after a few drinks and an argument, had a distraught date call the Coast Guard to be rescued from his chartered yacht.
Just last month, Kennedy hit another car in a Rhode Island parking lot.
Relatively little of this drew significant national coverage. Among the brief mentions in the New York Times, a 2002 piece on Kennedy's reelection campaign included a paragraph on his personal problems, quoting the congressman as saying: "If you are a Kennedy, people always make more of such things than really exists, and the true Kennedy haters just won't let go of it."
More typical were earlier Times pieces headlined "Wielding the Kennedy Name for the Good of His Party" and "Kennedy With Oomph (and Moneybags) Is Patrick." A 2000 Los Angeles Times piece on Kennedy's money-raising prowess said he can be a "hothead" who "almost came to blows" with a Republican lawmaker. The Washington Post covered a couple of the incidents as gossip items and ran such short news stories as "Rep. Kennedy Hopes to Quit House Fundraising Post."
|
It's hard to imagine that Patrick Kennedy would have gotten elected to Congress a dozen years ago without his last name. Are stumbling presidents just plain funny? The stock market dropped last Monday, thanks to Maria Bartiromo. Another journalist has blogged her way into oblivion. Gina Vivinetto,...
| 11.454545 | 0.654545 | 9.854545 |
low
|
low
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/06/AR2006050600165.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/06/AR2006050600165.html
|
Turning a Miniature Into a Lightweight
|
2006050819
|
Samsung's Q1 might seem like an impressive piece of laptop engineering -- it weighs just under two pounds, light enough to carry around full-time.
But the company had to sacrifice a few things to reach that weight: a keyboard. A CD or DVD drive. A screen big enough to display everyday Windows programs properly. Acceptable battery life. And, as a result, any justification for this device's existence.
The $1,100 Q1 is the first product designed to Microsoft's "Ultra-Mobile PC" template ( http://www.microsoft.com/umpc ); it's also been called an "Origami" device, after the code name Microsoft used before its unveiling in March.
The concept represents Microsoft's attempt to solve two long-standing problems: the weight and size of most laptop computers and the irrelevance of the company's Windows XP Tablet PC Edition to most consumers.
An Ultra-Mobile PC such as the Samsung Q1 runs on the Tablet software, which replaces a mouse with a touch-sensitive display and lets you enter text by writing on that screen. It includes WiFi wireless networking and Bluetooth wireless connections to peripherals such as printers and handheld devices. It has a screen no bigger than seven inches across and should weigh two pounds or less.
The Q1 weighs in at just 1 pound, 11 ounces -- although its power brick and the padded carrying case to protect its exposed screen add about another pound. It's about the size of a hardcover novel, with a seven-inch widescreen LCD framed by a handful of buttons and, on the review unit, a bright orange sticker with the excitable motto: "Always Being Connected!!!"
There is no keyboard (although its two USB ports and Bluetooth wireless can accept an external model). Instead, text is entered using various touch-based methods. One on-screen keyboard requires tapping keys with a stylus but "only" blocks the bottom fourth of the screen. Another has keys big enough to hit with your thumbs but it covers most of each side of the screen. Or you can write letters and numbers into an input palette that occupies as much real estate as the first keyboard but, in my experience, worked slower.
In Microsoft's Windows Journal note-taking program, you can write anywhere on the screen -- but your handwriting isn't converted to text automatically, making these files impractical to share with other people. You're also liable to scramble your input every time you brush the screen with the knuckles of your stylus-wielding hand.
The tested Q1 arrived with almost no third-party software; a copy of Microsoft Office and last year's version of Norton AntiVirus were the only notable additions. The copy of Windows Media Player included an extra "skin" for that program, with large buttons meant to be selected with a thumb (should you want to employ something the size of two Walkmen duct-taped together as an MP3 player).
Adding to that set of programs will be difficult, as the Q1 lacks a CD or DVD drive. You'll have to buy an external model or use another computer to copy the contents of an installer CD to a flash memory card. (Samsung chose that format even though its cameras and camcorders -- along with most other vendors' devices -- use smaller secure digital memory cards.) Either way, the review unit's almost 36-gigabyte hard drive, smaller than that of many MP3 players and quickly eaten away by the basic Microsoft programs that make the device run, doesn't offer much room to install extra software.
The Q1's screen represents an even greater impediment to using this thing as an everyday Windows machine. Not only is it far smaller than almost every other laptop's display, its low resolution -- a scant 800 by 480 pixels -- leaves most programs painfully cramped. Web pages required constant scrolling, Microsoft Outlook could only display 14 lines of an e-mail message, and buttons in most dialog boxes were either partially cut off by the bottom of the screen or hidden entirely.
A button to the left of the screen can simulate a higher resolution, but at the cost of making text and images look unfocused and blurry. And even then, many Web pages assume a taller display.
|
Samsung's Q1 might seem like an impressive piece of laptop engineering -- it weighs just under two pounds, light enough to carry around full-time.
| 28.37931 | 1 | 29 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700799.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700799.html
|
A New Take on the Old Time Capsule Concept
|
2006050819
|
Ever thought about writing down something really profound and putting it in a vault so that when your biographer opens it 50 years from now, people will say, "Gee, Gugliotta was even smarter than we thought."
Or "not as dumb as we thought," or "liked peanuts better than almonds," or "really was a space alien -- look, he says so right here!"
This is the principle behind Earth Capsule, less than 2 months old, and only operational since mid-April. For $1 you can write a message for posterity and file it in an electronic time capsule to be sent to repositories in more than 150 cities around the world and opened in 50 years.
Or you can do a message-in-the-bottle routine and have your communique sealed up in a waterproof cartridge and dumped into the ocean or lake at one of 44 locations, taking your chances on having it wash up at Rehoboth next week, or at Punta Arenas, Chile, 300 or 400 years hence.
Earth Capsule will also upload music, images or documents at $1.95 for the first megabyte, $1 for each additional megabyte. And a portion of each fee can be allotted to charities that are partnering with Earth Capsule.
Whether this ultimately works remains to be seen. Earth Capsule has been "doubling our customer base every couple of days," said Jason Ressler, one of the founding partners, but he acknowledged that after only a month "this is not saying much."
Still, Earth Capsule offers immortality on the cheap, which, as theologians have known for many years, is hard to turn down.
"People like to save things," Ressler said in a telephone interview. "We felt like the best way to preserve stuff was to use the Internet. The Web has socialized communications in terms of news, and we wanted to socialize it in terms of history."
Ressler and co-founder Evan Strome, both 35, are New York-based writers and filmmakers. Ashley Rindsberg, the third member of the triumvirate, is a 24-year-old electronics wiz who put the Web site together and figured out the technology.
Earth Capsule uses "HD-ROM" metal disks to store microprinted information that can be read with a magnifying glass. It is somewhat low-tech in today's terms, "like a supermicrofiche," Ressler said, but the disks "are able to preserve stuff for 1,000 years," which is what Earth Capsule is after.
Ressler said the company plans to collect uploads for a year, then send them to repositories in cities around the world, or pack them in aluminum canisters and drop them in Lake Nicaragua, the middle of the Indian Ocean and 42 other bodies of water, your choice.
By the time this happens, Earth Capsule hopes to have trust agreements with organizations in all the repository cities. The company is contacting historical societies, consulates, city halls and other groups to set up the infrastructure.
|
Get Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland and national news. Get the latest/breaking news, featuring national security, science and courts. Read news headlines from the nation and from The Washington Post. Visit www.washingtonpost.com/nation today.
| 14.02381 | 0.5 | 0.547619 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700909.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050700909.html
|
Sexual Abuses Called Challenge for Liberia
|
2006050819
|
MONROVIA, Liberia, May 8 -- Sexual exploitation of young girls is rife in refugee camps and communities in war-ravaged Liberia and threatens the country's recovery after nearly two decades of conflict, according to a report released Monday.
Save the Children UK said an alarming number of girls as young as 8 were having sex with older men, including policemen, teachers, aid workers and U.N. peacekeepers, in exchange for money, food or favors such as a ride in a car or watching a film.
"There are significant developments which indicate the communities are becoming increasingly resigned to the fact that sex in exchange for goods and services is another method of survival," Save the Children said in its 20-page report.
The organization called on Liberia's new government, U.N. agencies and donors to set up an ombudsman's office to ensure that cases of sexual exploitation against children are investigated and to promote a policy of zero tolerance.
Liberia's 1989-2003 civil war caused an estimated 250,000 deaths in the country of 3 million. About 1.3 million people were forced from their homes into camps around the capital, Monrovia, or abroad.
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, a Harvard-trained economist, was elected president late last year, but her government faces a massive task rebuilding an economy and society torn apart by years of bloodshed.
Save the Children said that work would be undermined if widespread sexual exploitation of children continued unchecked.
The authors of the report spoke to more than 300 people, in camps for the internally displaced and in communities where refugees had recently returned home.
"All of the respondents clearly stated that they felt that the scale of the problem affected over half of the girls in their locations," it said. "The girls reportedly ranged in age from 8 to 18 years, with girls of 12 years and upwards identified as being regularly involved in 'selling sex,' " which the report said was commonly referred to as "man business."
International donors, aid agencies and nongovernmental organizations should ensure that their own staff and those of any local partner organizations enforced a strict code of conduct, the report said, and countries that contribute troops to the U.N. force should remove soldiers found guilty of sexually exploiting children.
|
World news headlines from the Washington Post, including international news and opinion from Africa, North/South America, Asia, Europe and Middle East. Features include world weather, news in Spanish, interactive maps, daily Yomiuri and Iraq coverage.
| 9.434783 | 0.391304 | 0.434783 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050701011.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/07/AR2006050701011.html
|
Faculty Prepare to Take Sides on New President
|
2006050819
|
The campus was supposed to have emptied out by now, with exams over at Gallaudet University.
But the lawn by the front gates is still packed with tents as students continue to camp out, protesting the selection of the new president. Some alumni have come from elsewhere in the country -- including leaders of the 1988 protests that forced the Board of Trustees to choose a deaf president and created a civil-rights rallying cry for the deaf. They have joined a coalition of students, staff, faculty and other alumni wearing blue "Unity for Gallaudet" T-shirts and demanding that the search process be reopened.
Today, the faculty will meet to consider no-confidence motions on president-elect Jane K. Fernandes, on the Board of Trustees that chose her and on the search process that some say lacked diversity and fairness.
"We all know this is wrong," professor E. Lynn Jacobowitz said. "There might be a few who disagree . . . but 99.9 percent of the people here support this protest."
Fernandes has said that the outcry is about something much bigger than just her; it's about cultural conflicts, she said, with some people wanting the president of Gallaudet to define the identity of the deaf community.
It is an emotional issue as more people get cochlear implants, which allow them to hear and speak more easily, and go to mainstream public schools rather than schools for the deaf and hard of hearing. Some wonder what will happen to deaf culture, and to Gallaudet.
On Friday, nine professors with backgrounds similar to Fernandes's -- they grew up speaking, went to public schools and didn't learn American Sign Language or immerse themselves in the deaf community until later in life -- wrote her an open letter saying she had misunderstood the reasons for the opposition. The real issues, they wrote, are about a flawed search process and ineffective leadership.
I. King Jordan, the longtime president who plans to work with Fernandes for the next eight months and then step down, said recently that the board selected an academician with vision for the future of the university, "not the winner of the popularity contest." The board can't give the decision over to protesters, he said, without long-term implications for the governance of the school. It's not, he said, another "Deaf President Now," the movement that vaulted him into the presidency.
Jane Norman, a professor who was one of Fernandes's references, sent a widely distributed e-mail saying that protesters were pressuring others to join them. "We are going through a very difficult time but we will emerge as an inclusive university," she wrote. "Gallaudet is for all. Dr. Jane Fernandes has worked long and hard on diversity. Dr. Fernandes is our 9th president and will lead us into the 21st century."
After protesters shut down all entrances to the campus one day last week, two trustees agreed to come to campus to talk with them Friday evening. Hundreds waited outside, including a dog wearing a "Pet me to reopen the search process" T-shirt, wagging its tail in the crowd.
The 750-seat auditorium was full to overflowing, mostly with students, and the crowd soon turned angry as people stood on stage to sign questions to board members Celia May L. Baldwin, interim chairman, and Tom Humphries, who emphasized that they have heard the concerns but that the board will not change its decision.
"I beg of you," Baldwin signed, "to put your trust in us. Give us a chance. Give us an opportunity to prove to you that the selection was accurate."
|
The campus was supposed to have emptied out by now, with exams over at Gallaudet University.
| 39.444444 | 1 | 18 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/06/AR2006050601218.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/06/AR2006050601218.html
|
Kingman Park Fights a School Many Praise
|
2006050819
|
The residents of Kingman Park have a well-earned reputation for keeping their quiet Northeast Washington neighborhood, with its impressive canopy of willow oaks, just the way it is.
Since the 1970s, they have soundly deflected a Metro stop, a theme park and Jack Kent Cooke and his entire Redskins football team. They even kept the Grand Prix from returning after one year.
But now they may have met their match.
The School for Educational Evolution and Development -- the SEED school -- is poised to build a second facility on one corner of federally owned land near RFK Stadium. The school boasts the academics and facilities of an upper-class boarding school, but it is public and free to students who win admission through a lottery. And thanks to land-use legislation passed by Congress with wording so specific that only the SEED school meets the description, there appears to be little the neighbors can do to block it.
The conflict over the school pits a small but energetic group of citizens who have been models of grass-roots activism for decades against a project with a formidable array of well-connected supporters -- Mayor Anthony A. Williams (D), Harvard University officials, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Prince Charles, members of Congress, and the first lady and President Bush.
"It's very unnerving to see our local officials bypassed like this. . . . It's really just a land grab," said Frazer Walton, an attorney and head of the Kingman Park Civic Association. "Why us again?"
Kingman Park is a neighborhood of mostly brick rowhouses with large porches and well-tended front yards. Many residents are teachers, librarians, federal workers and retirees who have lived in their houses for decades.
The intensity of residents' opposition has stunned the founders of the eight-year-old SEED school. Until now, SEED has enjoyed broad and consistent praise for its educational experiment for seventh through 12th grades. Forty-one students have graduated, all of whom have gone on to college.
"I have never been engaged in a conversation that's so vehement," said Rajiv Vinnakota, one of the school's founders, who left a high-paying corporate job to become an urban do-gooder.
Protesters have gathered outside the SEED offices questioning the premise of charter schools and the story of SEED's success. Some activists have bemoaned the trampling of home rule. Others say they simply want to preserve the green space where they once raced skate cars as kids and now exercise their aching bones as retirees.
"It's not about what I dislike or like about the SEED school, I think it's an excellent program," said Esther Clemons, 69. "But good grief, when are you going to give this neighborhood a break? We had to contend with the baseball, then the football, then the race cars. Now this?"
The 75 acres they have been protecting is not a Shangri-La. It is a scrubby field south of Benning Road and north of RFK Stadium. Where World War II-era office buildings once sat, the field is now dotted with parking lots for stadium-goers. Part of it is used as a practice field by the D.C. United soccer team, which walled off the section it uses with an impenetrable green fabric fence.
|
The residents of Kingman Park have a well-earned reputation for keeping their quiet Northeast Washington neighborhood, with its impressive canopy of willow oaks, just the way it is.
| 19.666667 | 1 | 33 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/06/AR2006050601122.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050819id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content//article/2006/05/06/AR2006050601122.html
|
Episcopalians Reject Gay Candidates
|
2006050819
|
SAN FRANCISCO, May 6 -- The story from the Grace Cathedral on Saturday was not so much about what happened but what didn't happen. Episcopalians in San Francisco did not elect an openly gay candidate as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of California, thereby preventing a schism within the 75 million-member Anglican Communion already on the verge of crisis after the election of its first gay bishop in New Hampshire three years ago.
Instead, about 700 voters representing clergy and laity chose Mark Handley Andrus, a violin-playing, yoga-practicing father of two, currently the bishop suffragan from the diocese of Alabama. Andrus, who will be succeeding Bishop William E. Swing, who is retiring, told the voters in a phone link from his home that he is "glad and humbled by the trust you have placed in me."
Andrus ran against six other candidates. Three of them, the Rev. Michael Barlowe of San Francisco, the Rev. Robert V. Taylor of Seattle and the Rev. Bonnie Perry of Chicago, live openly with same-sex partners, prompting pundits to predict that the diocese, based in a city with a powerful gay movement, would elect a gay or lesbian chief. But from the start of voting Saturday, it was clear that none of the gay candidates would win; Perry, the sole lesbian among the group, dropped out of the race after the second round when she garnered only one vote.
The election, which took three rounds in the airy cathedral atop historic Nob Hill, was significant, because if the diocese had chosen a gay or lesbian bishop, it could have prompted the archbishop of Canterbury, the head of the Anglican Communion, to expel the U.S. church from the communion, or compelled a majority of the communion's other provinces to boycott the communion; in short, a full-blown schism.
Since the election in 2003 by the New Hampshire diocese of V. Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in Anglican history, conservative Anglicans have urged the Episcopal Church of the United States to stop even considering the election of gay bishops.
The furor over sexuality underscores the increasingly stark divisions between the communion's liberal bastion in the United States and its conservative strains, represented by some U.S. clergy, but more significantly among the church's biggest growth areas in Africa, South America and Asia, now home to more than half of all Anglicans.
The Rev. Ian T. Douglas, professor at Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, Mass., who co-chaired a committee that recommended in April that the U.S. church "exercise very considerable caution" before consecrating any more gay bishops, said the Anglican community had moved rapidly in the past 50 years to bring "historically marginalized voices" into the church. In the West, that has meant women, laity, gay men and lesbians and ethnic minorities. In Africa, Asia and Latin America, that involves "historically colonized poor people."
"What we need to be careful about is not playing one marginalized community off the other," he said. "The reality of differences is not going to go away because of one election."
The Rev. Robert Duncan, the bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, who has led the charge against Robinson's election, was clearly relieved that Saturday's victory did not go to an openly gay person. In a written statement, he said he was "grateful" the diocese had chosen Andrus. Duncan also called on the church to repent for its 2003 Robinson decision, place a moratorium on elections of openly gay bishops and stop blessing same-sex relationships.
"Our very claim to be 'Anglican' remains in jeopardy, and we have yet to clearly respond," he said. The Episcopal Church will next confront these issues in June during its general convention.
Senior clergy in the church and other participants in the vote said, however, that fear of a schism did not play a huge factor in the voting.
In a statement, Swing, the retiring bishop, said while it was understandable to see the election "as straight versus gay, or perhaps women versus men, or even black versus white," it really was about which candidate "God seems to favor" and which candidate could lead a diocese that in the past has witnessed "devastating earthquakes and fires and has been the epicenter of a pandemic."
"Fear was not a factor," said the Rev. Jack Eastwood, who led a committee that supervised the nominations and the election. "We said, 'Vote for the best person.' "
In addition to the three gay clergy members, the slate of nominees Saturday included one African American, the Rev. Canon Eugene Sutton of Washington National Cathedral, thereby making it the most diverse group of nominees in the California diocese's history. Since its founding in 1854, the diocese has been led by straight white men -- a tradition that Andrus will continue. However, the diocese is also among the most liberal of Episcopal dioceses; it has ordained the most gay and lesbian priests and last year also ordained a convicted felon.
In his comments by phone to the electorate, Andrus pledged to continue the diocese's liberal traditions, saying that "your vote today remains a vote for inclusion and communion." The voters erupted in a deafening applause. "Inclusion," Eastwood noted, is a church buzzword for welcoming gay men and lesbians and ethnic minorities.
|
SAN FRANCISCO, May 6 -- The story from the Grace Cathedral on Saturday was not so much about what happened but what didn't happen. Episcopalians in San Francisco did not elect an openly gay candidate as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of California, thereby preventing a schism within the 75...
| 19.036364 | 0.981818 | 53.018182 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500305.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500305.html
|
Sudanese, Rebels Sign Peace Plan For Darfur
|
2006050619
|
With a prod from the United States, the government of Sudan and the biggest Darfur rebel faction signed a complex peace plan yesterday that diplomats and experts said would require careful implementation to ensure an end to a conflict that has left as many as 450,000 people dead and 2 million homeless.
Deputy Secretary of State Robert B. Zoellick, who pushed the parties to an agreement during three days and nights of almost continuous negotiations in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, warned of the tough task ahead in a conference call with reporters.
"Do I hope there will be a significant decline in violence? Yes. Can I be certain? No," he said. The agreement is "an opportunity for peace," but Darfur "is going to remain a dangerous place."
The peace agreement seeks to dismantle marauding militias, fold thousands of rebel forces into the national army and pave the way to wealth and power-sharing between the central government and an impoverished area the size of France. Minni Minnawi, the leader of the Sudan Liberation Army, a rebel militia, signed the accord shortly after learning that his younger brother had been killed in Darfur, presumably during a firefight. Under the agreement, a cease-fire will go into effect in seven days.
Two other rebel groups -- a rival faction of the SLA and the smaller Justice and Equality Movement -- walked out of the talks, though a splinter group of one of the factions later presented a letter to mediators saying it supported the accord. Zoellick said the failure to win support from all of the rebels "certainly poses dangers," but he said he hoped the momentum generated by the agreement would persuade doubters to eventually sign on.
The conflict broke out in early 2003 when two African rebel groups attacked police stations and military outposts in Darfur. The United Nations and human rights groups accuse the Arab-led central government of supporting the militiamen, called the Janjaweed, to crush the rebellion. About 2,000 villages have been destroyed across Darfur, and critics of the agreement said it does not do enough to ensure compensation to victims. Both sides in the conflict have repeatedly broken previous agreements.
This agreement comes at a critical moment in the Darfur conflict, which is growing more chaotic, spawning more than 12 rebel groups on the lawless border between Chad and Sudan, banditry and a flood of weapons and fighters who are displacing civilians as far away as the Central African Republic.
In Chad, 60,000 people have been forced from their homes by Janjaweed incursions, along with several thousand in the Central African Republic.
Last week, the U.N. World Food Program announced that it had received only 32 percent of the $746 million in donations it had sought for its operations in Sudan. For that reason, it said, food rations to the camps would be cut in half.
U.S. officials say an accord is essential in order to persuade the Sudanese government to accept a U.N. peacekeeping force that would include logistical assistance from 400 to 500 NATO officers. The African Union currently has a 6,000-person force with a limited mandate in place. Many experts say it has been ineffective at stopping the fighting.
As the negotiations in Abuja stretched into the wee hours, Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo told the rebel leaders that they would miss a historic opportunity if they did not accept the agreement.
Zoellick said that at some time between 2 and 4 a.m. Friday, he pulled out a letter from President Bush to Minnawi pledging to "strongly support" implementation of the deal and make sure anyone who broke it would be "held accountable" by the U.N. Security Council. Zoellick read the letter to the assembled gathering. One problem, he said, was that it was clear that many rebels had not read the tentative agreement and did not realize that issues they kept raising had already been addressed.
|
With a prod from the United States, the government of Sudan and the biggest Darfur rebel faction signed a complex peace plan yesterday that diplomats and experts said would require careful implementation to ensure an end to a conflict that has left as many as 450,000 people dead and 2 million...
| 13.886792 | 0.981132 | 51.018868 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501475.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501475.html
|
Winning's Everything
|
2006050619
|
"In war, we have to win," said Gen. Vo Nguyen Giap.
This was on television about 20 years ago, a PBS series about the war in Vietnam. Giap was sitting behind a desk, as I recall, a picture of lethal ease. He seemed amused to think he knew something that the Americans still hadn't figured out. He added: "Absolutely have to win."
For me, a former Marine corporal who'd heard some Viet Cong rounds go past at Chu Lai, Giap spoke and the heavens opened -- a truth seizure, eureka. I finally had a useful, practical explanation for why we had lost after the best and brightest promised we were going to win. And nowadays, thanks to Giap, I have a theory, no more than that, about why winning is so elusive in Iraq.
I suspect that the people who run our wars, particularly the best and brightest, know when we fight a war that:
We have to be fighting for freedom and national security.
We have to get the will of the country behind the war.
We have to maintain a strong economy to pay for the war.
We have to have allies.
We have to have God, freedom, the inevitability of history or some other philosophic entity on our side.
We have to have well-trained and motivated troops armed with the latest weapons.
Sure enough, we started out with all of that in Iraq, as we did in Vietnam.
But do our high-ranking leaders believe, like Giap, that we have to win?
|
"In war, we have to win," said Gen. Vo Nguyen Giap.
| 19.625 | 1 | 16 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500937.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500937.html
|
Goss Forced Out as CIA Director; Gen. Hayden Is Likely Successor
|
2006050619
|
Porter J. Goss was forced to step down yesterday as CIA director, ending a turbulent 18-month tenure marked by an exodus of some of the agency's top talent and growing White House dissatisfaction with his leadership during a time of war.
The likely successor to Goss is Gen. Michael V. Hayden, the former director of the National Security Agency and now deputy to Director of National Intelligence John D. Negroponte, senior administration officials said. He could be named as soon as Monday.
VIDEO | Bush: CIA Director Resigning
Seated next to President Bush in the Oval Office, Goss, a Republican congressman from Florida before he took over the CIA, said he was "stepping aside" but gave no reason for the departure. Bush, who did not name a successor, said he had accepted the resignation and thanked Goss for his service.
"Porter's tenure at the CIA was one of transition, where he's helped this agency become integrated into . . . the intelligence community," Bush said. "That was a tough job, and he's led ably." Bush said he had developed a "very close personal relationship" with Goss, who succeeded George J. Tenet in September 2004.
But senior administration officials said Bush had lost confidence in Goss, 67, almost from the beginning and decided months ago to replace him. In what was described as a difficult meeting in April with Negroponte, Goss was told to prepare to leave by May, according to several officials with knowledge of the conversation.
"There has been an open conversation for a few weeks, through Negroponte, with the acknowledgment of the president" about replacing Goss, said a senior White House official who discussed the internal deliberations on the condition of anonymity. Another senior White House official said Goss had always been viewed as a "transitional figure" who would leave by year's end. His departure was accelerated when Bush shook up his White House staff in hopes of beginning a political turnaround.
Members of Congress privately predicted that Hayden, who once enjoyed tremendous support on the Hill, would face a contentious confirmation process over the Bush administration's domestic spying program. Other sensitive issues, such as the existence of secret prisons abroad for terrorism suspects, also are likely to arise.
"The calculus is that would be true about anybody at this point. Given all the other stuff, like secret prisons, the confirmation is going to be tough for anybody," a senior administration official said.
Another candidate mentioned along with Hayden is Mary Margaret Graham, who was transferred from CIA headquarters after clashing with Goss's staff. She now coordinates intelligence collection for Negroponte. Homeland security adviser Frances Fragos Townsend, a rumored potential candidate, is not in the running, officials said.
Negroponte became intelligence czar last year in a job created by Congress when it overhauled the nation's intelligence agencies in response to their failure to prevent the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Negroponte's role as the government's senior coordinator overseeing a web of intelligence agencies diminished Goss's job.
Goss was stripped of the title of director of central intelligence, which had been held by his predecessors in addition to the title of CIA director, and many of the duties were taken over by Negroponte. But Negroponte, a career ambassador whose last two posts were at the United Nations and in Iraq, has been under pressure from Congress in recent weeks to demonstrate that he is in charge of the intelligence community and able to make tough decisions.
Goss and Negroponte had been friends for years and were fraternity brothers at Yale, where they graduated in 1960. But turf battles erupted as Negroponte's operation grew and Goss was embattled within his own agency, where some officers viewed him as staunchly partisan and politically weak.
|
Porter J. Goss was forced to step down yesterday as CIA director, ending a turbulent 18-month tenure marked by an exodus of some of the agency's top talent and growing White House dissatisfaction with his leadership during a time of war.
| 16.5 | 1 | 44 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500888.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050500888.html
|
Patrick Kennedy To Seek Treatment
|
2006050619
|
Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy said yesterday that he is entering treatment for an addiction to prescription medications, an announcement that comes as police continue their investigation into a car crash involving the congressman near the Capitol.
Calling his addiction a "chronic disease," Kennedy said he does not even recall the accident, which occurred early Thursday and raised questions about his behavior and how U.S. Capitol Police deal with members of Congress.
The congressman's office has said Kennedy (D-R.I.) was disoriented behind the wheel because he had taken prescription medication to calm stomach inflammation and to help him sleep. No one was injured in the crash, but Kennedy almost hit a Capitol Police car head-on before slamming into a security barrier, authorities said.
Kennedy, 38, said yesterday that he has been battling problems with addiction and depression since he was a young man and that he will seek immediate treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. He was a patient there during Congress's winter break, he said, and thought he had returned to Washington "reinvigorated and healthy."
"I am deeply concerned about my reaction to the medication and my lack of knowledge of the accident that evening," he said during a brief news conference at the Capitol. "But I do know enough that I know I need help."
Kennedy did not answer questions at the news conference or address a controversy surrounding the Capitol Police department's handling of the matter. The union representing Capitol Police officers has said that Kennedy should have been given a sobriety test because officers at the scene suspected he had been drinking. The union suggested that Kennedy got special treatment because supervisors took over and drove him home.
Acting Capitol Police Chief Christopher M. McGaffin declined requests for comment yesterday. He told Roll Call, a newspaper that covers Congress, that managers had made mistakes in judgment and that "significant" administrative action has been taken.
The news conference was Kennedy's first public appearance since he crashed his green 1997 Ford Mustang convertible about 2:50 a.m. Thursday into the security barrier at First and C streets SE. New details emerged in a police report made public yesterday.
Before the crash, an officer saw the Mustang speeding through a construction zone and swerving into and traveling in the wrong lane of traffic, the report said. The car's lights were off, and the Mustang almost hit a police car before it smacked into the barrier.
In the report, an officer noted that Kennedy's eyes were "watery, speech was slightly slurred . . . and his balance was unsure."
Kennedy told the officer that he was "headed to the Capitol to make a vote," the report said. The House was not in session at the time.
Although the report includes a notation that alcohol played a role in the crash, police union officials said that supervisors did not allow officers to administer field sobriety or breathalyzer tests.
|
Latest politics news headlines from Washington DC. Follow 2006 elections, campaigns, Democrats, Republicans, political cartoons, opinions from The Washington Post. Features government policy, government tech, political analysis and reports.
| 14.435897 | 0.384615 | 0.384615 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501545.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501545.html
|
Scandals Left and Right
|
2006050619
|
For a congressman who just crashed his Mustang into a Capitol Police barrier and can't remember a thing about it, Patrick Kennedy is one lucky guy.
An hour before the Rhode Island Democrat was to make a painful appearance in front of the cameras announcing that he was going into rehab, Kennedy was bumped off the cable news screens by the sudden and unexpected resignation of CIA boss Porter Goss. Suddenly there was another scandal vying with Kennedy to lead the news, as Washington began to whisper about what nefarious deed might have hastened Goss's retreat.
On the other hand, Kennedy didn't look as if he was in a mood to send Goss a box of chocolates. Chased by cameras -- his office, home and favorite hangout had been staked out -- he tried to enter the Capitol but was redirected to another entrance, extending his walk of shame. He entered the House television studio with a forced grin and opened his speech with trembling hands. He began to speak, but something sounding like "argh" came out and he cleared his throat and began again.
"The incident on Wednesday evening concerns me greatly," he said, tripping over the last word. "I simply do not remember getting out of bed, being pulled over by the police or being cited for three driving infractions." As he spoke, he began to shake more noticeably. Perspiration built on his upper lip. The small room, with seating for 19 but crammed with 65 people, was silent except for the click of camera shutters. "I need to seek expert help," he continued. "This afternoon, I'm traveling to Minnesota to seek treatment at the Mayo Clinic."
Kennedy tried to ignore the din of shouted questions as he walked to the door, but he couldn't avoid the woman in the front row who asked if he would resign. He shook his head. "I need to stay in the fight," he said. Then the latest victim of the Kennedy Curse disappeared. On the decorative bookshelf behind the lectern where he spoke, there was still a copy of the Warren Commission's report on his uncle's assassination.
The media mob, expecting to duel with a feisty Kennedy who would deny wrongdoing, instead found a miserable character. Before the congressman's appearance, jokes about Chappaquiddick, Ambien and methadone filled the room. After the appearance, some felt bad for him that his father, Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.), didn't join him. Others said the return to rehab would douse the story. "It's a get-out-of-jail-free card," one producer predicted.
Fortunately for the scandalmongers -- not to mention Kennedy -- Goss was ready to take over the spotlight. Neither Goss nor President Bush gave any reason for his quick resignation when they appeared in the Oval Office. That left former Republican congressman Bob Barr, who served in the House with Goss, free to speculate.
"I think there's going to be more coming out," Barr said on CNN. "We don't know the whole story." Invoking the bribery scandal involving former GOP congressman Duke Cunningham, Barr continued: "It's starting to reach into the CIA. And that could very well be something that is going to -- you know, like a sore that's been festering. That could bust out sometime now. And maybe that could reach into the top levels of the agency."
For some reason, none of this came up when White House press secretary Scott McClellan, in his last day on the job, interrupted his briefing to say: "One thing I forgot to mention at the top, and I know this will stir some interest, but it just popped back in my mind, and I apologize for not mentioning it at the top."
Yup, just popped into his mind that the CIA director was resigning in half an hour.
The president, too, acted as if the whole thing had been widely expected and was entirely Goss's call. "Porter's tenure at the CIA was one of transition," Bush said. "He's led ably."
Continuing the classic resignation minuet, Goss acted as if he had not been given a shove. "I can tell you the trust and confidence you've placed in me and given me, the latitude to work, is something I could never have imagined, and I am most grateful for it," the spook said.
Bush and Goss left reporters an hour to make the climb up Pennsylvania Avenue to the Capitol for the Kennedy speech. Along the way, satellite trucks waited outside the federal courthouse where former vice presidential aide Scooter Libby was having a hearing in the Valerie Plame leak case.
But Scooter was passé yesterday. The scandal machine had a new victim with a famous name. Indeed, if Kennedy's name were Congressman Jones, his mishap might not have been big news. There was no major damage yesterday to the barrier he hit at First and C streets SE (in view of Republican National Committee headquarters) and the photos of his car showed light damage to a front headlight and rear fender.
But Kennedy is not Jones. So when news came Thursday of the crash -- and of the friendly ride home from Capitol Police, who declined to give him a sobriety test -- reporters camped for six hours outside Kennedy's office.
When the unhappy man finally emerged, Fox News's Jim Mills asked him whether he had received special treatment. "I didn't ask for any," he replied.
Now Kennedy is getting some special treatment at Mayo, and Goss is about to be given the treatment in Washington.
|
For a congressman who just crashed his Mustang into a Capitol Police barrier and can't remember a thing about it, Patrick Kennedy is one lucky guy.
| 38.241379 | 1 | 29 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501928.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501928.html
|
Hubbub in a Bubble
|
2006050619
|
The eight-foot Plexiglas sphere, filled with 2,000 gallons of warm salt water, sits in the middle of Lincoln Center Plaza. On this clear spring day it sparkles pale blue like an enormous shooter marble. David Blaine is inside this giant aquarium, tethered to an oxygen hose and floating around like a giant Sea-Monkey. The only things missing are fuchsia rocks, fake coral reefs and a plastic treasure chest.
Blaine, whom some call an illusionist, submerged himself in the tank at 1 p.m. on May 1. He will remain under water, hooked up to his breathing apparatus, until Monday evening. Then he will, on live television, be entangled in 150 pounds of chains. He will relinquish his oxygen mask and attempt to free himself while also holding his breath for nine minutes. He will try very hard not to die on live TV.
"Well, he's not breaking the law," correctly notes the nonjudgmental Mary Rhodd, who is visiting from Des Moines. She is taking in the Blaine spectacle for the second time this week after rounding up her son and daughter-in-law for a look-see.
"It's not a negative thing," she says. "So why not?"
Possible brain damage during the finale is one deterrent. After human skin sits in a tank of water for an extended period of time, it starts to get all bleached out, thin, wrinkled, blistered and fragile. It hurts. It looks profoundly disgusting. And there are all those people standing around, staring and taking pictures like they're at the zoo. There was a traffic jam of elementary-school kids on the plaza, nannies with their toddler charges, mommies creating Bugaboo gridlock. You just know they'd feed Blaine peanuts if they could.
Friday morning, there's a line of about 50 people waiting to climb onto a platform that abuts the sphere. From there, viewers take pictures with their cell phones, give Blaine the thumbs-up sign and press their hands against the tank in solidarity with the man inside whose sanity is repeatedly questioned by many of those standing on the plaza.
"I just wanted to come see the sheer level of stupidity," says Joe Rhodd, who is Mary Rhodd's son and proof that a nonjudgmental attitude does not necessarily run in families. "Why the hell else would you sit in a bubble?"
Money, notoriety, attention, the feeling of being invincible . . . boredom?
If the idea of a human being pretending to be a fish sounds strange, the sight of such a thing is bizarre. Let's just dispense with political correctness, niceties and diplomacy and call this what it is: an old-fashioned freak show. Bring on the bearded lady.
Blaine's sphere sits just off Broadway and is a stone's throw from Juilliard, the New York City Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera and a host of other high-minded and august institutions. It is a tantalizing juxtaposition.
|
NEW YORK, May 5 The eight-foot Plexiglas sphere, filled with 2,000 gallons of warm salt water, sits in the middle of Lincoln Center Plaza. On this clear spring day it sparkles pale blue like an enormous shooter marble. David Blaine is inside this giant aquarium, tethered to an oxygen hose and...
| 9.75 | 0.966667 | 48.7 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501683.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501683.html
|
Five Big Bands, All Screamingly Teeny
|
2006050619
|
If you sound just like 'em, you might as well join 'em: That seems to be the thinking behind the Black Clouds and Underdogs Tour that hit Merriweather Post Pavilion Thursday, a five-band screamo lineup whose acts included Hawthorne Heights, the All-American Rejects and Fall Out Boy, much to the delight of the teenage girls who packed the place to capacity.
Though the parents of these groups' young fans probably liked the idea of Hawthorne Heights' track "Where Can I Stab Myself in the Ears," the performances were solid in spite of their sameness -- an understandable problem at other themed events such as Ozzfest, but one that got especially tiring here considering each band's generic, radio-friendly catalogues.
The latest buzz belonged to Hawthorne Heights, whose five members were clad in white and thundered their way through a 30-minute set that highlighted their latest album, "If Only You Were Lonely." With three head-banging guitarists and the guttural roars of Casey Calvert, the Ohio-based group offered the evening's hardest edge, with Thrice-like thrash punctuating recent tracks such as the suicide-themed "This Is Who We Are" and its slightly softer first radio hit, "Ohio Is for Lovers."
The All-American Rejects followed with a performance that had a heavier-thumping bottom yet a poppier, Blink-182 sound. Also allotted only 30 minutes, the mussy-haired group played up its strengths, with grinning guitarist Nick Wheeler teasing the audience with frequent visits to the stage edge and frontman-bassist Tyson Ritter getting love pretty much with every move or shout-out he made. Melodic, hooky smash "Dirty Little Secret" was a highlight of the set, along with Ritter's attempt to differentiate the band by pointing out the arguable assertion that current acts tend to avoid rock ballads, unlike the Rejects' anguished "It Ends Tonight."
Also debatable was Fall Out Boy's worthiness as a 75-minute headliner, considering that the group's it-status seems to have peaked last year after the May release of "From Under the Cork Tree." Still apparently riding the success of the giant if unexceptional hit "Sugar, We're Goin Down" and the energetic, fresher-sounding "Dance, Dance," the quartet did eke out a lively show from its thin repertoire, buoyed by bassist Peter Wentz taking the spotlight off frontman Patrick Stump with his chattiness between songs. (Wentz made reference to recently "leaked" photos of his, um, manliness. Classy.)
Regardless of the night's lack of variety, it was too bad most of the ticket holders at the general-admission show could barely see their faves: Merriweather's multiple screens weren't used for close-ups of the stage as is typical with big venues. Instead, they displayed snippets of video, lyrics and random images that were only distractions from the "hotties," a word that showed up frequently on the screens when they were used between sets for a text-messaging free-for-all -- which only encouraged the crowd's ear-shattering screaming to continue even when no one but the roadies were onstage.
|
If you sound just like 'em, you might as well join 'em: That seems to be the thinking behind the Black Clouds and Underdogs Tour that hit Merriweather Post Pavilion Thursday, a five-band screamo lineup whose acts included Hawthorne Heights, the All-American Rejects and Fall Out Boy, much to the...
| 10.2 | 0.983333 | 58.016667 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501633.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501633.html
|
Click Once for Anna Kournikova's Favorite Miami Spots
|
2006050619
|
Marketing executives inside some of the biggest technology companies can tell you that a tech gadget or service is not really "cool" until a celebrity is using and promoting it.
Rapper Snoop Dogg has been featured in commercials for XM Satellite Radio. Paris Hilton pushed an awareness of the T-Mobile "Sidekick" with her jeweled version of the wireless device. Even Apple, which was already headed for stardom with its iPod, put together a U2 version of the popular portable music device.
Now, Microsoft Corp. is tapping Hollywood in hopes that the general interest in the lives of well-known people will push consumers to the company's new mapping Web site, called Windows Live Local.
If you've ever wondered where tennis star Anna Kournikova likes to get a pedicure when she's in Miami or asked yourself where New York Yankee Alex "A-Rod" Rodriguez goes for Italian food in Manhattan, Microsoft has those answers.
The company yesterday launched a promotional Web site ( http://www.celebfavorites.com ) featuring Windows Live Local with an overlay of the favorite restaurants, bakeries, hotels, dance clubs and more from a handful of celebrities' hometowns. The map features "pinpoints" of those locations.
Click on the map for actress Eva Longoria, for example, and you'll see that she loves dining at Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery, a 24-hour restaurant in San Antonio, and shopping at the River Center Mall.
For now, only a handful of celebrities are featured on the site but Angela Morrow, product manager for Windows Live Local, said the company is in negotiations with several more celebrities and plans to keep the site up for the next month or two to gauge its success in driving traffic to Windows Live Local, a rival to Google Maps.
Microsoft noted that it did not pay the celebrities for their participation in the site but instead donated a total of $200,000 to their favorite charities.
Microsoft said putting the stars' favorite hangouts serves as a demonstration of a tool that everyday users can find useful. Instead of using maps for driving directions, users can place a virtual "pushpin" on a map of a restaurant or hotel and then e-mail it to a friend.
"What better way to show users an example?" Morrow said.
|
Washington, DC, Virginia, Maryland business headlines, stock portfolio, markets, economy, mutual funds, personal finance, Dow Jones, S&P 500, NASDAQ quotes, company research tools. Federal Reserve, Bernanke, Securities and Exchange Commission.
| 9.565217 | 0.391304 | 0.391304 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/03/DI2006050301397.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/03/DI2006050301397.html
|
Enron Trial Update
|
2006050619
|
Washington Post staff writer Carrie Johnson was online from Houston to answer your questions on the ongoing trial of former Enron executives Kenneth L. Lay and Jeffrey K. Skilling .
A transcript follows from the Friday, May 5 disucssion.
Coverage on Enron's collapse and the legal proceedings against its former executives, including regular audio reports from Carrie, is available in a special report online here .
Carrie Johnson: Good morning from Houston, where U.S. District Judge Simeon T. Lake III promises the Enron trial is in the "home stretch." This week saw the end of Ken Lay's testimony and a passel of high-priced finance and accounting experts who had all of us on the edge of our seats. The defense is likely to rest its case Monday or Tuesday. Pretty soon, this case will go to the jury and we'll be bidding Houston adieu. Let's go!
Loveland, Colo.: Can Skilling and Lay claim that they can't get a fair trial in Houston?
Carrie Johnson: Good question. Both defendants worked mightily to get the case moved out of Houston, where thousands of people lost their jobs and retirement savings after Enron's December 2001 collapse into bankruptcy protection.
But the judge rejected the voluminous defense motion, which included focus group testing filled with negative comments about both defendants. Instead, the judge allowed prospective jurors to fill out an extensive questionnaire to weed out possible bias.
The defense already has signaled that if there are convictions in the case, this issue is a likely focus on appeal. Keep in mind that many legal experts say it would be difficult to overturn a jury verdict on this issue alone, though.
Fort Lauderdale, Fla. : What kind of demeanor is Linda Lay exhibiting in the courtroom? Poor Lil' Nell? Is she dressing tastefully in beige, keeping jewelry to a minimum and not making the mistake Martha did by carrying an ultra-pricey handbag?
And what can you tell us about jurors? Given body language, do they appear to buying into any of this "we went broke, too" defense? Thanks in advance for insights.
Carrie Johnson: Linda Lay has been in the courtroom every day since the trial began Jan. 30. She is often accompanied by several family members, including her daughter, son in law, and friends of the Lay family. Her wardrobe has been understated: she appears to favor silk blouses and pants. When the courtroom gets chilly, she throws a tasteful St. John's sweater over her shoulders. She sometimes shakes her head and speaks with her relatives.
As for the Martha Stewart-Birkin bag issue, I'm afraid that I am the last person to pick out a $16,000 handbag. Perhaps I should go on a scouting trip to the Galleria this weekend?
The jurors are difficult to read, but they appear to be eager to get the case in their own hands after sitting through 14 weeks of evidence. They were very pleased to get an early afternoon of it yesterday, after scheduling issues prevented the defense from calling any more witnesses that day.
Colorado Springs, Colo.: I was surprised that Kenneth Lay, who made a fabulous salary, was able to borrow so much money from his company. I could understand a loan to buy a primary residence on a move to a new company but to borrow millions seems very excessive. Is this normal for companies to allow this perk...to be a bank for executives? Do they pay interest? Do other companies do this? Where does it show up on the financial statement that I would know if companies I own stock in are loaning the officers such huge amounts?
Carrie Johnson: Executive loans were not uncommon during the 1990s. In fact, WorldCom's Bernie Ebbers borrowed some $408 million from the telecommunications company, if my memory serves. He has yet to repay the bulk of that money and is appealing his 25 year prison sentence.
Lay used a board-approved revolving credit line to sell back more than $77 million worth of Enron stock to the company in its final months in 2001. He has never been charged with a crime related to the transactions, and he argues the board knew he was returning to the credit line frequently during that time frame.
In the trial, though, one witness testified that board member John Duncan exclaimed Lay was using the credit line like "a damn ATM machine" when he learned the actual numbers in early 2002.
You may be interested to know that the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, overwhelmingly passed by Congress after the Enron and WorldCom scandals, bans executive loans of the sort Ebbers and others enjoyed.
San Francisco, Calif.: Lay's testimony was that he is currently worth well under a million dollars. How are his legal bills getting paid? Is there any reporting on how much money he had transferred to his family members, faimily foundations, etc. and when did these transfers occur? Has the government look into that issue?
Carrie Johnson: Lay testified that his family foundation, which sold 500,000 shares in late November 2001, shortly before the company's merger with Dynegy fell apart, has few assets. He said he retains his $4 million Houston apartment, two cars, and a few other investments.
He has paid defense lawyer Mike Ramsey, who is on medical leave with a heart ailment, $2 million. He has used his own money and insurance proceeds to pay other defense lawyers.
Rest assured that the government has scrutinized every aspect of Lay's personal finances--an issue that causes him no small amount of acrimony, as he testified this week.
Lay has yet to repay $7.5 million he borrowed from Enron using that revolving credit line. He said he tried to settle before the trial, but that prosecutors vetoed the deal. The government responded that the deal would have given Lay $80,000 per month for life--hardly fair to Enron employees who lost billions.
Athens, Ga.: Why wouldn't the prosecution want to call Causey?
Carrie Johnson: You refer to Richard Causey, Enron's chief accounting officer, who had prepared to go to trial alongside Skilling and Lay until a last-minute guilty plea in December 2005.
Causey struck a deal with prosecutors, a deal that would give him between five and seven years in prison, depending on his level of cooperation with the investigation.
He is dangerous to both sides: he could hurt the defendants because of the disclosure issue to which he pleaded guilty. He could hurt the government because up until his plea, and possibly thereafter, he maintained that Enron's accounting was up to snuff. That is a centerpiece of the defendants' argument that there was no massive fraud at Enron.
It now appears as if Causey will not appear as a witness at all in this case--a reflection of the double-edged sword aspect of his testimony.
Wilmington, N.C.: Why has the issue of 9/11 - and the administration's break with the Taliban in August of 2001 - not come up as a partial reason for the collapse of Enron? Bush and Chaney had been negotiating with the Taliban for a LNG pipeline to go across Afghanistan which would have greatly benefitted Enron's position in the region.
Carrie Johnson: Well, one of the many reasons Lay and Skilling attribute to the market panic or "run on the bank" that they say induced Enron's collapse was the skittish stock market post 9/11. Indeed, in a speech to employees after he resumed control of Enron in the fall of 2001, Lay compared skeptical media reports to terrorists out to attack Enron, just as terrorists attacked the World Trade Center.
Prosecutors argue, on the other hand, that revelations about secretive business partnerships run by then Enron finance chief Andy Fastow and troubled broadband, retail energy, and international assets had more to do with the business's demise.
I do not cover the energy industry and I am not awre of the LNG pipeline issue you raise.
Herndon, Va.: Do you think Lay's temper on the stand is a result of the stress? Or does he figure by the time he runs out of appeals, Bush will pardon him as he walks out of the White House for the last time?
Carrie Johnson: Ken Lay, who at one point was considered a possible candidate for mayor of this city, the fourth largest in the U.S., had been widely praised for his diplomatic skill and his powers of persuasion.
But he was less cordial than angry in his performance on the witness stand in his fraud trial. He lashed out at the government and sometimes his own lawyer.
It is difficult to imagine how much stress he and fellow defendant Jeff Skilling, and their families, must be facing on trial for their lives.
No idea about possible pardons, but recall that when Lay, a longtime friend of the Bush family, called administration officials for help in late 2001, no such response was forthcoming.
Charleston, S.C.: At this stage in the trial, what appears to be the mind-set of the jury? In your opinion, has the defense possibly found someone who might have "reasonable doubt" regarding conviction?
Carrie Johnson: Can't speculate much on the jury's mind set.
I can say the following: the government has a very high burden of proof in this sort of case. Prosecutors must convince all 12 jurors to agree on at least one of the 28 charges against Skilling and the 6 against Lay in order to win a conviction.
Defense lawyers need only persuade one juror that there is reasonable doubt in order to win a hung jury, mistrial, and likely retrial.
This case will rise and fall on the credibility of both Lay and Skilling, who testified in their own defense and faced extremely aggressive cross examination.
Fairfax, Va.: Now that Lay and Skilling have finished their testimony, have you had a chance to reflect and draw any conclusions on how it appeared to "sit" with the jurors? Did it look to you like taking the stand was overall good or bad for Lay and Skilling?
Carrie Johnson: I'll answer this question in terms of expectations.
Because Skilling, who is known for his volatile temper, did not blow up on the witness stand, he probably exceeded the expectations most journalists had of him.
Because Lay, who was known as one of the most charming men in Houston, showed an angrier and more aggressive side that was perhaps leavened with remorse for what happened to Enron's employees a bit too late in his testimony, he did not meet the lofty expectations people had of him.
Neither man appeared to have a majority of the jury eating out of their hands, though they may have given a reason to acquit for a juror or two or three who was already inclined to vote in that direction.
In short, no home runs. Maybe a bunt. We'll only know when the jury speaks later this month or early next.
Manchester, N.H.: How damaging to Lay's case is the absence of his lead counsel? Any opinion as to why the defense did not request a delay in the trial?
Carrie Johnson: Lay's lead attorney, Mike Ramsey, is prominent in Houston for his skill as a trial lawyer. He has an angry charisma and has pulled out some stunning verdicts in his 40-year career, including an acquittal for real estate heir Robert Durst, who was accused of killing a neighbor, dismembering his body, and throwing the parts in the Gulf. (Sorry, perhaps this is a little too graphic before lunch.)
Ramsey left the trial weeks ago to undergo a cardiac stent procedure. Since that time, he has had another stent implanted in his carotid artery. He returned to the hospital a few days ago for more tests.
Lay's defense team, which is rounded out by appellate specialist Mac Secrest, civil securities lawyer Bruce Collins, and former prosecutor and Ramsey protege Chip Lewis, could have sought a delay in the case. But they did not do so. That makes it less likely that Lay could raise the issue on appeal, legal experts tell me.
It's unclear whether Lay would have taken more direction from Ramsey during Lay's turn on the witness stand, had the strong-willed Ramsey been there to lead him. But in Lay's long business career, he has not been accustomed to following, so it's possible his testimony would have taken the same tone even if Ramsey had been asking the questions.
Reston, Va.: It seems that there is a strong link between the ENRON PIPELINE and their collapse. I believe it is too convenient that the "desecration" of Enron leads to its collapse, the bankruptcy enables the PIPELINE loans to be in default, and the PIPELINE portion of the company is torn away. Then we have a "War on Terrorism" with the PIPELINE front and center. Who benefits? The U.S. government. Lots of free "stolen" money, newly appropriated money, and less free enterprise. I think the Enron "scandal" is a distraction. Has anyone discussed this? If not, could we start now?
Carrie Johnson: Not so sure about this. If the Enron investigation was a distraction, it certainly proved a problematic one for the Bush administration in late 2001, 2002, and to some extent right up into this trial, which began in January 2006.
Washington, D.C.: What's your take on the best possible (but most realistic) outcome of this trial? Both in verdict and punishment.
Carrie Johnson: At this point (and the conventional wisdom could be colossally wrong about this) it is unlikely we will see the complete acquittal on all counts that both defendants sought before the trial began. The more likely outcome, according to lawyers who have been following the case, is either a hung jury or a conviction on some counts.
That said, I wouldn't bet any money on that. Juries are unpredictable and as the wise and funny and (thank God) time-sensitive Judge Sim Lake reminds us all on a weekly basis, the jury is the best and only judge of the facts in this case.
Chicago, Ill.: Are the jurors in this case sequestered? Will they be once they enter the deliberations phase?
The jurors are not sequestered. They have been instructed repeatedly not to read news reports or watch TV accounts of the trial. But they are able to go home to their spouses and families every night.
Judge Lake has not yet announced whether he wants to sequester the jury once the panel begins deliberating, most likely late in the week of May 15.
During the Arthur Andersen LLP criminal trial in 2002, jurors were sequestered at a Houston hotel once deliberations began. That jury took Sundays off, but they worked on Saturdays. I believe we waited about 10 days for that verdict, a conviction that was eventually overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court because of faulty jury instructions.
Carrie Johnson: Thanks very much for all the good questions. Look forward to chatting with you again next week.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post staff writer Carrie Johnson will be online from Houston to answer your questions on the trial of former Enron executives Kenneth L. Lay and Jeffrey K. Skilling.
| 99.6 | 1 | 9.6 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501613.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/05/AR2006050501613.html
|
Limousine Firm Denies Allegations
|
2006050619
|
The president of a limousine company questioned in a congressional bribery investigation has denied accusations that he or his company provided prostitutes to convicted former congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham or anyone else. The company has turned over records to federal investigators and is cooperating with the probe, its lawyers said.
"We categorically deny any involvement in, or connection, with prostitution," Sandy Roberts, an attorney for Christopher D. Baker, president of Shirlington Limousine and Transportation Inc., said in a letter to The Washington Post. "Shirlington Limousine has never been a part of, nor involved in, any illicit or illegal activities that may have taken place in connection with Congressman Cunningham."
In recent weeks, federal investigators have been examining the relationship between Shirlington Limousine and Brent R. Wilkes, a San Diego businessman under investigation for bribing Cunningham to get federal contracts. Mitchell J. Wade, a defense contractor who has admitted to bribing the former congressman, told prosecutors that Wilkes used the limousine company to help procure paid escorts for Cunningham, a California Republican, and possibly other lawmakers and officials, according to a source close to the investigation. Wilkes has denied that allegation through his attorney.
Michael York, another Baker attorney, said yesterday that Baker was questioned several weeks ago by FBI agents about his dealings with Wilkes. At the government's request, Baker furnished the government with company records.
Shirlington Limousine had financial troubles for years before winning two transportation contracts from the Department of Homeland Security in 2004 and 2005 worth $25 million. Department officials said that Baker's company was not the low bidder on either contract, but that they were awarded for "best value," based on Shirlington Limousine's past performance and technical ability.
Homeland Security officials said they did not know that Shirlington Limousine lost a contract for shuttle bus service with Howard University in 2002 amid charges of poor service. Baker did not cite the university contract on his bid proposal, despite instructions to list recent contracts involving similar services.
If Homeland Security had known about the Howard contract or other previous financial problems of the company and its owner, officials said, Shirlington Limousine's bidding score might have been lower -- but not necessarily enough to give the contract to a competitor.
Officials said Baker's criminal record, which includes numerous misdemeanors and two felony convictions, would not have affected the company's bid. When the agency contracts with a company, officials said, they do not check the criminal backgrounds of its executives -- nor do they run their names against the government's terrorist watch list. In Shirlington Limousine's case, only the drivers' backgrounds were checked.
Clark Kent Ervin, the former inspector general for Homeland Security, said the vetting process was badly flawed because it left security gaps and failed to turn up readily available information about Shirlington Limousine's finances and performance.
"At best," he said, the agency was guilty of "really, really poor -- textbook poor -- due diligence."
Both contracts were awarded under a Small Business Administration program limiting competition to companies located in poor neighborhoods. The larger contract, worth as much as $21 million over five years, was awarded in fall 2005 to provide shuttle service between Homeland Security buildings and limo service for senior officials.
The award was challenged by a losing bidder who alleged that Shirlington Limousine falsely claimed to be located in a poor neighborhood, records show. To qualify, Shirlington Limousine listed as its principal office 425 Eighth St. NW, in downtown Washington, said Calvin Jenkins, an SBA contracting official. That address is a furnished residential apartment in a luxury building, a fact cited in the protest. The SBA denied the protest.
Jenkins said a residential apartment can qualify as a principal place of business if it is "the single location where the greatest number of individuals" report to work.
Cunningham has begun serving his sentence of eight years and four months. Wade, the defense contractor, pleaded guilty to his part in the scheme in February and is cooperating with investigators. Wilkes has not been charged.
Baker's connection to Wilkes began in the late 1990s when he was introduced to the contractor by Jerome Foster, a San Diego businessman who was then a director of Shirlington Limousine, Foster said in an interview.
Foster said he met Baker at the Watergate Hotel when he hired Baker as a driver. Baker told Foster that he had had legal and money troubles, Foster said, and he agreed to serve as a mentor to the driver.
At the time, Foster said, he had Navy contracts, used the same lobbying firm as Wilkes and was discussing doing business with Wilkes. He said he has not seen either man in years and was "shocked" when he learned about Baker's contracts.
Foster said the Baker he knew was naive about business. "He wasn't an individual I would have thought could have gotten that kind of contract on his own," Foster said.
Roberts, Baker's lawyer, said in the letter that Baker won the federal contracts because of his "commitment to detail and customer service."
|
Latest politics news headlines from Washington DC. Follow 2006 elections, campaigns, Democrats, Republicans, political cartoons, opinions from The Washington Post. Features government policy, government tech, political analysis and reports.
| 25.25641 | 0.487179 | 0.692308 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/03/AR2006050302020.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/03/AR2006050302020.html
|
Hitting the Fairway on A Segway
|
2006050619
|
It's a beautiful day out at the Norman Course at Lansdowne Resort, with a high sun and a flutter of breeze off the Potomac. I'm having one of those rare rounds when I feel like a natural: My stance is relaxed, my body balanced, my movements smooth and sure. I can barely suppress a smile as I work around the fairways.
Oh, I'm not talking about my game, which is ugly as usual. It's this Segway GT I'm riding. The two-wheeled, electric-powered, computer-driven, gyroscopically balanced transporter, occasionally spotted on the streets of tony urban neighborhoods where trust-fund Gen Xers gather, has been tricked out for the golf course. I've arranged to play 18 holes on the thing.
And this is the most memorable round of golf I've played in . . . well, probably ever. My playing partner is Josh Herman, the PR guy for Lansdowne, who agreed to pull strings to let us Segway around the much-talked-about new course, designed by Aussie golf superhero Greg Norman, provided he got to ride, too.
Josh will verify that it wasn't my play that made the day special. It is the odd joy of tooling around on this silent new-millennium chariot, hovering about eight inches above the turf, the golf bag strapped on like a nylon sidecar.
Let me say quickly that it's not all George Jetson-at-the-links on a Segway GT. Josh and I each fell twice (unhurt; more on this below), and we realized at some length that, geez, we sure were standing up for a long time. My calves hurt the next day.
We played quickly, though -- none of this cart-paths-only, 90-degree-rule, I'll-drop-you-at-your-ball-while-I-go-look-for-mine-in-the-holly nonsense. In a Segway GT, you cruise right up to your ball, step down from the platform and pull the unit back by the handlebars, using the golf bag as a kickstand. Hit your shot and it's back on the fun machine.
The folks who made this all possible are with Capital Segway, a dealership on I Street NW. (The operation also provides Segway tours of the city for around $70 a head.) Dave Cannon, vice president for business development and an old Marriott hotel hand, said he's working on deals to place small fleets of Segway GTs at golf resorts. No Washington area clubs provide Segways yet. (Lansdowne doesn't either, so put the phone down, bucko.) But Cannon said a few folks have bought them for use at private clubs.
It's all part of Segway's corporate challenge, which (not to put too fine a point on it) is to figure out what people might actually want to do with this incredible breakthrough in transportation technology. The U.S. Postal Service operates a fleet; some resorts and corporate campuses put security guards or messengers on them; others are in use by military bases, factories, utility companies, colleges and residential communities. Law enforcement organizations use them to elevate their foot patrols. Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport's security patrols use several Segways.
The technology is a delight. After about 10 minutes of training, just about anybody can maneuver safely on a Segway. Though it has handlebars like a motorcycle, there's no throttle or brake. You simply lean forward ever so slightly to go forward, lean backward a bit to reverse, and stand straight up to stop. As Cannon told me, "It's so sensitive you really can just think about moving forward and you go." I found this to be true.
But my two tumbles were not so smooth. There is really just one key thing to know about riding a Segway. When you step onto the platform with one foot, a green smiley face will appear on a round window between the handlebars. But if the unit is tilted too far forward or back, it will grumble and glow yellow, telling you to straighten up before you step on. This is not difficult to learn.
But let's say you just slapped your 10th Maxfli Noodle into another one of the Norman Course's gorgeous and maddeningly numerous environmental protection areas, and you're a bit addled by the sun and the natural beauty, and you don't notice the grumble and the yellow icon and you step up anyway . . . well, you sort of tip forward and hit the ground and spring up quickly, feeling like a dork. Josh did that once, too. Another time he took on a 40-degree side slope in an admirable display of topographic bravado. He tumbled off like a stuntman exiting an exploding Boxster.
Even without such theatrics, Josh and I were regarded as quite a spectacle during our round. When I looped a ball into an adjacent fairway too close to a threesome, they seemed to be glaring at me more than the offense called for. Then I realized they were just taking in the view of my scooting noiselessly in their direction at 12 miles an hour. Once, when we passed some construction guys installing a roof on a resort building, they all stopped working and turned to look at us in unison. I felt like we should toss beads or something.
|
It's a beautiful day out at the Norman Course at Lansdowne Resort, with a high sun and a flutter of breeze off the Potomac. I'm having one of those rare rounds when I feel like a natural: My stance is relaxed, my body balanced, my movements smooth and sure. I can barely suppress a smile as I work...
| 15.701493 | 0.985075 | 65.014925 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100376.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050619id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100376.html
|
What Makes a High School Great?
|
2006050619
|
May 8, 2006 issue - If you want to understand what's happening in some of America's most innovative public high schools, think back to your own experiences in that petri dish of adolescent social stratification known as the cafeteria. Were you a jock? A theater geek? A science whiz? Part of the arty crowd? Whatever your inclination, it defined where you sat.
Now imagine that each of those tables was a school in itself -- with a curriculum based on sports, drama, science or art and a student body with shared interests and common aptitudes. That radical idea is transforming thousands of high schools.
A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works for everyone, the new thinking goes; a more individualized experience is better.
"We are changing the goal of high school and what it's possible to achieve there," says Tom Vander Ark, executive director of the Gates Foundation's education initiative, which has spent $1 billion in 1,600 high schools in 40 states plus the District of Columbia over the last six years.
For parents and students, these schools mean an often bewildering array of choices -- small schools within larger schools, specialized charter and magnet schools for things ranging from fashion design to computer programming, even public boarding schools for budding physicists or artists.
On the plus side, students get more adult attention and are less likely to be lost in the crowd. They can focus on subjects they really care about while still getting a grounding in the basics. But some educators think this boutique approach comes with a cost: the loss of a common experience that brings everyone together under one big roof.
Maintaining quality is another major obstacle. "I think we're still flailing around," says James Anderson, a professor of educational-policy studies at the University of Illinois. "A lot of this is more theater than substance." Vander Ark agrees that the new schools need to prove they're providing a markedly better alternative to regular public schools. "We want to make sure people raise the bar," he says.
Educators have been demanding reform for decades, and it has often seemed as if ferocious policy debates were the biggest obstacles to improvement. Reformers in the 1980s wanted to make all students college-ready with a rigorous core curriculum. A decade later, school choice and testing were the big buzzwords, with some activists arguing that the entire public-school system should be dismantled. More recently, small schools -- first proposed decades ago -- have gained traction with funding from organizations like the Gates Foundation and the New Schools Venture Fund.
With our Best High Schools list, NEWSWEEK recognizes schools that do the best job of preparing average students for college. By dividing the number of AP and IB tests taken at a school by the number of graduating seniors, we can measure how committed the school is to helping kids take college-level courses. We think kids at those schools have an edge, no matter their economic background. But many schools not on our list are also challenging students in innovative ways -- proof that the national experiment in high-school education is just beginning. Ask yourself, "What is high school really for?" Then look around at the options available to today's teenagers: diverse and compelling answers abound. Here are some of them.
Everyone pays for public schools, so it makes sense that a primary mission should be teaching students to participate in the democratic process. A generation ago many schools required civics courses; far fewer do so today. "There is so much emphasis on preparing kids to survive economically," says Constancia Warren, senior program officer and director of urban-high-school initiatives for the Carnegie Corp. of New York. "As a result, are we really preparing kids for citizenship?"
In the past decade, many schools have started requiring community service. The César Chávez High School for Public Policy pushes that idea all the way to Capitol Hill, which, fortunately, is within walking distance. In addition to a rigorous college-prep curriculum, students work as interns in Congress, at think tanks and advocacy groups in Washington. As seniors, they write a thesis on a public-policy issue and give a presentation before an audience that forces them to defend their stand.
|
May 8, 2006 issue - If you want to understand what's happening in some of America's most innovative public high schools, think back to your own experiences in that petri dish of adolescent social stratification known as the cafeteria. Were you a jock? A theater geek? A science whiz? Part of the...
| 13.688525 | 0.983607 | 59.016393 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601569.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601569.html
|
Real Wheels
|
2006050419
|
Warren Brown talks about all your automobile issues! He has been covering the automobile industry for The Washington Post since 1982. Brown, who joined the newspaper in 1976, has what many people think is a particularly cool job: He gets to test drive all manner of cars, from top-of-the-line Mercedes sedans and the newest sports cars to Volkswagen Beetles and SUVs. His auto reviews are lively, detailed accounts of a car's good and bad points, addressing everything from a car's highway performance to its "head-turning" factor and sound system.
Brown comes online Wednesdays at 11 a.m. ET to answer your questions on every aspect of the automotive industry -- from buying your dream car to the future of the internal combustion engine.
Lorton, Va.: Hi, Warren. What do you know about the 2008 Honda CRV? I'm looking for a roomy small SUV hybrid (who isn't) with updated styling. The Escape doesn't cut it (remember what Ford stands for: fix or repair daily). My '92 Celica with 150K is running like a top, but gotta plan.
Now a history lesson. Last week you mentioned that some of your southern friends referred to what you called the War Between the States as the "War of Northern Aggression." Wrong on both counts. The name of the war in official records is "The War of the Rebellion." It was not a civil war, wherein two opponents clash to take over the same territory (that was England in the 17th century, Russia in the early 1920s, and Spain in the 1930s). It was, properly noted, a war of secession. It was also not a "war between the states." It was a war between a nation -- the United States comprised of those states that remained loyal to it -- and a very loose confederation of states out to destroy the country for a highly flawed and basely immoral cause. Tell them to get over it and burn their Confederate flags. Thanks!
Warren Brown: Okay, Lorton, but in Louisiana, we called it The War of Northern Aggression. It was all the North's fault, you see. Damned Yankees!
Honda's compact CR-V comes front-wheel-drive, or all-wheel-drive. Three trim levels--base LX, upscale EX, and max-spiffed SE. All use Honda's 2-liter, inline 4/156-hp engine. New model has more interior space. Look for about 19 miles per gallon.
P.S. You could be cheating yourself by not looking at the Escape, which is good and competitive in all respects with the five-seat CR-V.
Falls Church, Va.: Warren: I'm thinking of buying the Mazda MPV because I love the fact that its a small, stylish van. We have a small family and don't need a tank. I do have some reservations about purchasing since they are stopping production with the '07 model. Do you think this is a reason not to purchase?
Warren Brown: Good morning, Falls Church. All vehicles have a production cycle, which means they all reach the end of that cycle sooner or later. That does not mean you won't be taken care of if you buy after the production cycle's demise. The sponsoring company will be able to take care of you. The aftermarket parts business is quite healthy.
Are you looking at the MPV, or the smaller Mazda 5, which essentially is a compact wagon that looks a bit like a minivan? I ask because people sometimes confuse the two.
New for 2007 is the crossover SUV (read: minivan/wagon masquerading as an SUV), the Mazda CX-7, priced from $23,750 to $28,000 base. It's a five-passenger deal that's worth the look.
Arlington, Va.: I need your wisdom. I was planning on buying a 2005 Mazda 3 hatchback in the coming months. Now I see the Honda Fit is coming out next year, which I could buy new for about the same price. What do you think?
Warren Brown: Both are good small cars. But the Mazda 3 is a hot seller, which means it's sometimes difficult to get. I doubt that you will find any price breaks on either one, largely because the Mazda 3 is hot and the Honda Fit is new. Also consider the Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa and the completely redone and very competitive Chevrolet Aveo.
Of the bunch, the Mazda 3 remains my favorite -- looks good, runs nicely, totally fun to drive and won't drive you crazy at the gas pump.
Washington, D.C.: I'm looking for a small hatchback wagon-esque car with decent gas mileage and a strong safety record. What do you think about the Audi A3? Is it worth the extra money over the Mazda 3?
Warren Brown: The Audi A3 -- $24,740 to $33,980, available FWD or AWD, FWD is 2.0 T (Turbo) 4 cyl, 200hp; and the S-line comes AWD w/3.2, 250 hp V-6 AWD -- is a good car. Is it that much better, safer. more enjoyable than the Mazda 3 ($13,710 to $19,165 (FWD only, with 2-liter and 2.3 liter inline four engines respectively 150 hp and 160 hp)? No, not really.
Washington, D.C.: I really want a Mini -- have you heard any long(er) term reports which indicate I would be making a mistake? Thanks!
Warren Brown: We bought ours in 2001. The only thing I'd recommend avoiding is the panoramic sunroof, which can rattle unmercifully -- and which still does on our model, even after a "fix."
Otherwise, it's a great city car. We love it. Lots of spunk and good mileage. However, it requires premium.
Laurel, Md.: What's your opinion of CAFE these days? Is it true that CAFE adds thousands of dollars to the typical new car sticker, and if so, isn't it a lot less effective than merely raising the tax on fuel and letting the market drive the concern for efficiencies?
I'll try to keep my anti-CAFE rant short.
In summary, CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) is a complicated act of political cowardice in which Congress, Democrats and Republicans alike, tried to establish a federal energy policy by passing the buck.
It's a grand act of blame-gaming in which the car companies are asked to make more fuel-efficient vehicles, which they have done, by any objective measure; but the consumers are excused from exercising any discipline in the market place.
In short, CAFE has made driving cheaper. To wit: More fuel-efficient vehicles without higher taxes on gasoline consumption, vehicle size or engine displacement, coupled with a wrongheaded economic policy that effectively says Americans alone are entitled to the cheapest gasoline in the developed world, yields what we have gotten since CAFE's inception in 1975: Measurably more fuel-efficient vehicles category by category, increased vehicle miles driven, increased consumer appetite for more horsepower (Why not? New vehicles get better mileage than comparable older models. Gasoline is cheap. Means we can get more vehicle and oomph for our dollar, right?); the U.S. with the highest consumption of motor fuel in the world.
And, yet, we have members of Congress who are crazy enough, silly enough to suggest that we spend billions of dollars in a deficit-ridden national economy by giving citizens a $100 tax rebate to cover the rising cost of gasoline.
It's CAFE dumb, because CAFE in its own way does exactly the same thing.
McLean, Va.: Hi, Warren. What are your thoughts on SUVs? More specifically -- I currently own a 2005 Jeep Liberty. It's been a great car with no problems except for it's 16 miles per gallon. Honestly, though I don't drive it much. It's a 2005 with only 11,000 miles on it. That mileage usage may or may not change in the near future. Would I be smart to sell it now and buy a more fuel efficient vehicle? or do you think that the prices on such used vehicles has already taken the SUV/cost of gas "hit" and I should just keep it? I'm kind of likening my car to owning a bad stock, do I dump now and take my losses? or will it rebound?
. You've already stated that you accumulate relatively little mileage.
. You've already taken the vehicle depreciation hit.
. You're already settled into a given insurance payment rhythm.
. The vehicle works just fine.
. You obviously like it.
. A new vehicle will come with attendant new costs -- rolling the balance due on your current vehicle into a new loan (assuming that you still owe something on the current vehicle); possibly higher interest rates at a time when the Fed is considering raising rates to ward off inflation; new insurance and related costs.
Not financially worth it, certainly not just to get a car with putatively higher mileage.
How to counter rising gasoline prices, which will continue to rise in response to increase global demand, declining global production of oil, the high costs of switching over to more refined petroleum stocks and alternative fuels, and what I believe is some oil company profiteering (taking advantage of a real situation to get greasy rich)?
. Proper vehicle maintenance, especially tires.
. Use regular unleaded, if your vehicle can run with that.
. Empty the junk in your cargo bay.
. Plan and consolidate trips.
. Now is the time to eliminate costly vices, if you have any.
Bethesda, Md.: My wife drove a 2005 Infiniti G35x, loved it and bought it -- the car is hot -- amazing engine, and naturally the gas mileage is terrible. The car's manual says to use regular fuel -- my brother says we should only put premium in it. It doesn't knock. What's your take?
Warren Brown: Follow the car's manual. Use regular. People waste too much money putting premium into cars and trucks that do not require it. Use regular. Save money. The car will run just fine.
Washington, D.C.: Any idea how the new wagon-like sub compacts compare in terms of insurance cost in the DC area. I'm thinking about a Yaris, Fit, Versa or Aveo and am unable to find rate comparisons.
Warren Brown: Hello DB in D.C.:
The insurers do everything by the numbers -- well, almost everything. There are some other influences, which they deny, that I think factor into their decisions. But that's an unending argument.
. If you are young, male, unmarried and living in anybody's urban area, you will pay through the nose. The numbers say your car or its contents will be stolen, or you will crash it before anyone else.
. If you are a woman in the same demographic group, the numbers tend to be a bit more generous in terms of premium mitigation. Women generally have more sense than men. They take fewer risks, tend to run with better crowds, and generally don't drink like fools before getting behind the wheel.
. If you are married, you get something of a break. Marriage is viewed in the insurance industry as a stabilizing influence on driver behavior.
. If you are married with children, you get a break. You are perceived as being a fully stable adult.
. But, you'd better hope that the other people buying Yaris, Fit, Versa, or Aveo cars are not banging them up or trying to retrieve them from thieves on a regular basis. Such events give vehicles a bad name. Insurers don't like vehicles with bad names.
. Check with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to see where IIHS, which works for the country's largest insurers, rank your vehicle in their offset frontal and side-impact crash tests.
. The higher the vehicle's safety rank at IIHS, the lower your premium.
. The lower the vehicle's safety rank at IIHS, the higher your premium.
As a fellow Mini owner, it's worth noting that the requirement for premium only applies to the Cooper S, not the regular Cooper.
Ours is an 04, and the roof hasn't started rattling yet!
The label on the gas tank of our Mini with CVT transmission says very clearly "Premium Only," as does the accompanying owner's manual.
And maybe we just got a bad roof install.
But we love the car.
McLean, Va.: I would really like to purchase a BMW. But one thing that gets to me is that so many of the high-quality comfortable cars out there require Premium fuel. Can someone share the message that I may be willing to spend more for the car but I don't want to spend more for gas?
Warren Brown: Ok, McLean. Done.
Arlington, Va.: About premium fuel:
My manual says regular and that's what I do. But I drive the car very little, about 5,000 miles a year. My mechanic (after some repairs) said I should use premium to keep everything clean because I use it so little and only for short in-city trips. Do you agree?
Warren Brown: Kindly tell your mechanic to take a refresher course on motor fuels.
Most motor fuels have detergents, which help keep engines clean. Those detergents are found in regular and premium unleaded gasolines.
The octane rating is a measure of a fuel's ability to burn without engine knock. It has nothing to do with detergent properties. If your engine is running smoothly on manufacturer-recommended regular, there is no need to switch to premium.
That is the opinion of the people running the oil and car companies.
Higher compression engines, especially those models that are turbo-charged or supercharged, generally require premium for best performance.
Many multi-valve (here, meaning more than the usual two valves per cylinder) engines require premium. That's many, not all.
Most two-valve-per cylinder engines run perfectly well on regular.
Springfield, Va.: You just told Bethesda to follow the manual and use regular. I have a 1998 Passat and I thought the manual said I could use regular. I told a colleague that I use only premium and he said I was wasting my money. so I switched to regular and the car started stinking, the exhaust was downright toxic. I happened to meet another 1998 Passat owner who said that I have to use premium. What gives?
By the way, I hate VW. Why are they so popular? Everything is breaking and I burn 2 quarts of oil between oil changes (I have to poor at least one quart in six weeks after an oil change)
Warren Brown: Hello, Springfield, it might be the quality of the regular gas you are using. Or, it could stem from the nature of your catalytic converter, assuming that you are talking about that eggy, sulphurous smell.
VW cars are popular because VW makes good, fun cars.
But VW, like all of us, occasionally makes mistakes.
Individuals often overcome mistakes by apologizing, promising to do right, and trying to fix what's wrong.
I've suggested before, and I suggest now that VW study the roles of contrition and repentance in customer relations management.
Gaithersburg, Md.: Warren, my only beef with Mini and what's keeping me from buying these are the lack of dealership. Imagine hiking up to Reston or Towson for services. Do your readers keep (access to dealerships -- at least while the factory warranty is in effect) this in mind?
Warren Brown: Gaithersburg, my friend:
Visit the Mini site on the Internet. Right now, the best I can suggest is that you get there by Googling "Mini." Anyway, visit that site and click on "dealers." There you will find a full list of dealers and their locations in your region.
Arlington, Va.: I'm interested in buying either a Toyota or Honda. Can you compare and contrast the Prius and the Civic Hybrid? Both 2006.
(I'm also considering the 2005 Accord Hybrid and the 2006 Camry Hybrid.) Please help! Thanks
Warren Brown: I prefer the Honda hybrids. The technology is more transparent. They feel and drive like cars that just happen to have hybrid powertrains.
That is not to say that the Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Prius and Camry isn't worth it.
It's just that I'm not one of those people who wants the technology smacking him in the face. Nor do I like the styling statement of parking a Prius in front of a mini-mansion financed with a no-interest loan and a borrowed downpayment.
I like to keep my life simple.
Englewood, N.J.: What's a good motorcycle for beginners?
Warren Brown: I know nada about motorcycles. When you're living with the kidneys of two lovely women, you think twice about assuming certain unnecessary risks.
Laurel, Md.: My girlfriend leased a Lexus IS 250 recently. The lease was based on the sticker price, meaning they didn't negotiate at all.
Everything is negotiable in the car business.
If you can't get a better price, leave the dealership, or buy something else.
You can keep retailers out, or let them in.
Fairfax, Va.: Warren, I'm stumped. I drive an old SUV (10+ years) with awful gas mileage, and I'm ready to trade it in for a newer (2005) fuel-efficient small car. I don't know how to choose among the 2005 Civic, 2005 Scion XA, and 2005 Mazda 3 hatchback. They all have similar safety and fuel efficiency ratings, and all are supposed to be fun to drive. Do you know of anything substantive that should swing me in one direction or another as among those cars? Or should I just go with my gut after test driving them?
Warren Brown: No need to be stumped. Shop for price here. You are right, they are very competitive models.
Choose the one that best appeals to your inner soul and your outer pocket.
My favorites here are the Mazda 3 and the tC.
Warren Brown: Ok, good people, I must go and please my temporal gods, otherwise known as editors and producers.
Take care. Treat one another kindly. Drive carefully. God bless.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
The Post's Warren Brown answers your questions about every aspect of the automotive industry.
| 232.3125 | 0.9375 | 3.0625 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601346.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601346.html
|
Ask Tom
|
2006050419
|
In a city loaded with diverse restaurants, from New American chic and upscale Italian to sandwich shops and burritos on the run, finding the best places to eat can be a real puzzle. Where's the best restaurant for a first date or an anniversary? Father's Day? What's the best burger joint? Who has the best service?
Ask Tom. Tom Sietsema, The Washington Post's food critic, is on hand Wednesdays at 11 a.m. ET to answer your questions, listen to your suggestions and even entertain your complaints about Washington dining. Sietsema, a veteran food writer, has sampled the wares and worked as a critic in Washington, Seattle, San Francisco and Milwaukee, and can talk restaurants with the best of 'em. You can access his Postcards from Tom to read his recommendations for other cities, read his dining column or read transcripts of previous "Ask Tom" chats. Tom's Sunday magazine reviews, as well as his "Ask Tom" column, are available early on the Web.
Washington, D.C.: Where can I get decent, cheap Korean food inside the District?
Tom Sietsema: Your best bet is probably Yee Hwa on 21st St. But for the best Korean cooking, you really have to venture to Annandale. Good morning, everyone. Are you seeing as many screw-top wines as I am these days? Every other restaurant I visit seems to have a handful of such on its list. I asked one sommelier what he did with the foil top (cork stoppers are generally handed to the customer): "I put it in my pocket." Onward.
Just a thought on the "Ask Tom" section form the Sunday Magazine. At what point are diners responsible for their own actions? The man ordered the special. Apparently the server did not mention the price. The diner did not ask what the price was. So the owner of the place coughs up a $75 gift certificate when the diner is upset that the cost of the special was $32? Come on now, lets all be practical. The difference between what he was going to order and what he did order was $16 - that would have been a nice gesture. A $75 freebie for a meal that the man seemed to have enjoyed other than the price, seems a bit much. A what point are you, this chat and others forcing restaurants to go beyond common sense?
Tom Sietsema: I'm not forcing anyone to do anything. And I agree with you -- Mon Ami Gabi was mighty generous in its response to the diner's complaint. But I bet the server won't forget to mention the price of a special again! And I think the restaurant looks good for going way, way beyond the call of duty to make a customer happy. You bet that customer will be back. You bet that customer will promote the business in his discussions with friends and others.
Bakery Help: Tom - Not a restaurant question but hopefully you can help. I am looking to order two dozen of the big frosted sugar cookies for a special event. Is there anywhere I can order these? Preferably in NW DC. I would have tried Amernick since it is right around the corner from my apt, but it's no longer there. Thanks!
Tom Sietsema: It's not in DC, but the Heidelberg Pastry Shop in Arlington might be able to help you out. Call 703-527-8394 and ask for the owner, Carla. Maybe a chatter knows of a closer source?
Washington, D.C.: just a quick rave for Oya. My husband and I often eat at delicious places in the DC metro area in all price ranges, and we tried Oya on Saturday night. We found it to be a great experience, from the friendly gentleman opening the door for you when you arrive, to the interesting decor, to the pleasant and informed but not overbearing service by our waiter Alfred. And the food was on par with some of the better places in town - Alfred steered me to the veal cheeks, which I was worried would be fatty, but they were absolutely meltingly delicious, and not fatty at all. My husband had a great NY strip with an absolutely delicious roquefort tart. The duck crepes to begin were lovely, b/c the duck was tender instead of stringy and chewy, as I often find it even at the nicest places. I just wanted to write in and highly recommend this place. We would have ranked it 3 or 3.5 stars based on our experience. Thanks a lot.
Tom Sietsema: That's great to hear, but keep in mind, I ate there at least four times under the new chefs and based my review on more than a single visit.
Greenbelt, Md.: Hi Tom, I'm a little confused about your comment last week: "I'm rarely inclined to do the maximum number of courses anywhere anymore. I hate leaving the table feeling like I just swallowed Thanksgiving, you know?" I would have thought that the more courses you choose, the smaller the portions and that you are essentially paying for more variety. Is this not the case? We are going to Maestro for our first anniversary and were going to go all out but now I'm not sure if I want to spend the night feeling glutted!
Tom Sietsema: Well, portion sizes really vary from restaurant to restaurant. And while I love variety in my meals, at a certain point I reach a saturation point. Something might taste good, but it can't be appreciated in the same way as when you are a little bit hungry. Does that make sense?
re: Screw Top Wines: One of my favorite Rose wines has officially switched over to screw top this season - I always feel obligated to say "it's a good good wine even though it's screw top!" whenever I give it as a gift...
Tom Sietsema: I had a dinner party recently and served three screw-topped bottles of an Oyster Bay pinot noir. No one batted an eye. Well, no one but the Italian at the table.
Alexandria, Va.: Hi Tom, love the chat...I was hoping to get your opinion on a situation.
My girlfriend and I go to Al Crostino for dinner Friday night (happy to be seated with no reservation)
I, being a vegetarian, request (as we have during prior visits) that the crostini appetizer be meatless. Discover upon eating, however, that there is what appears to be/tastes like meat. Server denies that it is meat, "takes it to chef," comes back and reports that it is definitely not meat--it is a mushroom (both my gf and I agree that it is unlike any mushroom we have ever had before!)
Dinner comes and we are BOTH served lobster special (reiterate that I do NOT eat meat) that only my girlfriend ordered--server is very apologetic and they are quick to bring correct dish.
Two glasses of wine are given to us WITHOUT us asking for them as we finish our first glasses. We assume that these are on the house and admittedly enjoy them.
Wine shows up on bill.
I know that it's always dangerous to assume anything, but I felt that it was a safe assumption after all of the mishaps...am I totally wrong here? We did not ask for any compensation/freebies for the mishap and paid the bill in full, no questions asked (plus a generous tip). Also, the chef scowled in our direction several times--not sure whether this was a sign of displeasure with us or the server...either way it was pretty uncomfortable.
Tom Sietsema: A few thoughts: 1) Some mushrooms closely resemble meat in texture and sometimes flavor. Portobellos, for instance, often stand in for the "meat" in a vegetarian "hamburger." 2) The wine just showed up? The waiter said nothing? You should have disputed its charge, given the circumstances. 3) Not everyone understands that "I don't eat meat" also means "I don't eat fish or seafood or fowl." 4) Shame on the chef for scowling.
re screw top wines: It's a tough transition and the waiters I've talked to say it's weird. but more importantly, what do I do with my rabbit and foil cutter?
Tom Sietsema: There's always Ebay and the Smithsonian!
So you discovered the Heidelberg?
I will be anxiously awaiting your review of their wurst stand now that warm weather is approaching.
Tom Sietsema: We've known each other for years, actually.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Tom, I just wanted to provide a suggestion for the reader seeking Korean food. Having grown up eating my mother's delicious Korean cooking I have a very difficult time eating out for Korean food because I find the menu items are toned down for the American palette or places just simply don't offer the dishes I love to eat.
Having said that, I would suggest to the reader to simply ask around to other Koreans they encounter. They will usually know the places that serve good food. I have used this method to find great little Salvadoran and Ethiopian restaurants in the area that I may have never gone to otherwise. One can also go to a Korean supermarket and ask around there or purchase food items that are already prepared. Good luck.
Tom Sietsema: Good luck is right. Have you ever asked an Ethiopian cab driver where he goes for home cooking? I've received at least 15 different answers from as many drivers! But I understand your tip, and I thank you for it.
Baltimore, Md.: Cindy Wolfe gets a Beard nomination: I see by the Baltimore Sun that Cindy Wolfe of Charleston and Petit Louis got a James Beard nomination for best chef in the Mid-Atlantic. (And she almost didn't see it, because nominees are notified by e-mail!) Anyway, having eaten at both places, I know it is well deserved. (Petit Louis, in Roland Park, is special--a near bargain.)
And I have to say, that comment about Oya seemed suspicious. Like someone was getting in every copy point. Perhaps a publicist?
Tom Sietsema: Yeah, it sounded a wee bit publicity-driven to me, too. But you'd be surprised at how many times I flag those kinds of posts and a regular reader later emails to say "I'm not a flak!"
Washington, D.C.: Some of the dining experience, at home or in a restaurant, is ceremony -- and unscrewing a foil cap lacks the ceremony of carefully removing a cork, which requires some modicum of skill and generates a satisfying pop. A little trouble makes one appreciate the results a little more.
I know it's silly, but screw-tops are just less fun.
Tom Sietsema: Less romantic, for sure. One of my favorite sounds in all the world is that of a champagne bottle being opened.
Alexandria, Va.: I am Italian and I have no problem with screw tops.
Petworth, D.C.: In your review of Viridian on Sunday, you mentioned that a former employee of Viridian was a vegan. Was she the pastry chef? I ask because previously the desserts were rather dreary and I was wondering if that was because they were vegan? Just last week I had dinner there and the dessert menu seemed much changed. I ordered a remarkable citrus cake and was tempted to have seconds...and I am not a dessert person by nature.
Tom Sietsema: Sidra Forman, the opening food consultant at Viridian, is indeed a vegan.
Welcome to Restaurant Jeopardy! Here's the capsule review of the restaurant in which I'd like to dine. Tell me it's name and where it is, anywhere within 120 miles of the Washington Monument.
"The chef employs an economy of preparation, letting good ingredients speak for themselves. S/he also shows evidence of her time in Vietnam and Thailand, letting individual flavors with bite and crunch serve as the keynote to certain dishes. Let's be honest: the place is not cheap -- it may cost $100 per diner in the end -- but despite the cost, there's no establishment attitude here, and they don't look down at the diner. It's the kind of place, where when you ask about how something is prepared, the chef might invite you back to the kitchen to see for yourself."
Many thanks, and keep up the good work.
Tom Sietsema: For $500? Off the top of my uncaffeinated head: the Inn at Easton? Andrew Evans weaves Asian notes into his always-interesting menu.
Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: Tom--Thanks for your review of Viridian; I thought your comments and your 2-star rating were just right (it could almost squeeze to 2.5). However, your comments on the portion sizes were slightly deceptive, in that folks might think that the portions are too small or that they're overpriced. The point seems more that Viridian doesn't add significant sides to the reasonably priced and sized entrees and folks likely will want to choose a side dish or two to fill out their meals.
Tom Sietsema: As luck would have it: I was finishing my visits at Viridian just as the chef was changing his menu, so I raced back to taste a few new items before handing over my copy. (That's happening a lot, lately!) Appetizers are appropriately sized, but I hear you on the entrees. They are best accompanied by a shared side or two.
Arlington, Va.: For the record, a properly opened corked bottle of wine should NOT make a "pop" when the cork is extricated.
Tom Sietsema: As far as champagne is concerned, I beg to differ. I'm not talking a T-N-T KABANG but a muffled and sexy "poof."
hungry Nebraskan: What's going on with Ray's the Steaks?
Tom Sietsema: Ray's the Steaks is alive and well and grilling meat!
My two supervisors are taking me out for lunch tomorrow for a belated Administrative Assistants' Day. Our office is right outside of Old Town, but we can drive anywhere with in reason. Any good suggestions for me, without taking too much advantage of their generosity? One caveat: I'm a vegetarian. Thanks for your help!
Tom Sietsema: 100 King Restaurant near the Torpedo Factory has something for everyone. Plus, it's a handsome destination.
washingtonpost.com: Review of 100 King.
These chats make my Wednesdays!!
We have friends who are getting married and moving to San Diego. As a gift, we'd like to get them a gift certificate to a nice restaurant - a memorable date in their new home town. (They'll be in grad school, so we'd like to treat them to a place they'd blanch at going on their stipends!)
I've never been to San Diego - any suggestions? Thanks oodles!!
Tom Sietsema: Do they like sushi? The new Koi Lounge in La Jolla is great fun -- intimate, with great tunes -- and the owner has his own guys to catch the restaurant's stock of fish and seafood.
Bored in the District: Tom-
My taste buds are itching for something completely different and exilerating. Budget is not too high... but I'd really like to try something new and fun. Any thoughts on where a girl can entertain her palette?
Tom Sietsema: Can you first give me an idea of where you've BEEN? They aren't "new" but Nirvana on K St. has really good regional Indian food and El Chalan on I St. makes a mean dish of beef hearts spritzed with vinegar, paprika and lemon. And in today's Weekly Dish, I mention Pryamids on 6th and Florida, which serves very good Moroccan cooking.
20001, Washington, D.C.: I heard the when Johnny's Half Shell moves into the old La Colline space that they will turn the carryout into a taqueria that serves breakfast and lunch.
Can this be true? PLEASE SAY YES!!!
Tom Sietsema: I reported just that in a recent column.
washingtonpost.com: The Weekly Dish on Johnny's Half Shell.
Washington, D.C.: People should celebrate screw tops, not disdain them. The failure rate on corks is astounding. At a restaurant, you might be able to exchange a corked or musty wine, but at home you're stuck!
Tom Sietsema: Really? My wine sellers always take back products that have gone bad. (And it happens, it happens.)
Washington, D.C.: Tom, Last week you mentioned that you missed the Super Grilled Cheese from Stoney's. Just wanted to let you know that you can get that same sandwich at Tunnicliff's Tavern on the Hill. The owner of Tunni's cooked at Stoney's for several years.
Tom Sietsema: Oh joy! Thanks for the tip.
re Champagne popping: It is truly the best sound in the world. It shouldn't so much "pop" but, as someone once told me, sound like a woman's sigh.
Tom Sietsema: And sigh again ....
S. Rockville, Md.: Some of the most exciting wines my wife and I tried in Australia had Stelvin (screw) caps. They do a better job protecting the wine than does traditional cork. As a former mayor is wont to say, "Get over it!" when it comes to screw caps being a sign of low-class wine!
Hiedelberg - Petit Fours: The Petit Fours at Heidelberg are divine. I have special ordered them for showers and other parties at Heidelberg and they always decorate accordingly. I would recommend to the person looking for cookies to consider this amazing alternative.
Tom Sietsema: Vielen Danke for the great alternative idea!
Washington, D.C.: Oya lunch. I had lunch there a few weeks ago. It was virtually empty. It was my first time there and I thought the service was terrific and the food was creative and very good. My complaint was that the portions were so small as to be comical. I weigh about 110 pounds and left feeling like I could use a good burger. Just one person's view.
Tom Sietsema: You are DEFINITELY not the publicist!
Alexandria, Va.: I am hosting a big barbeque this summer for my alumni association. In the past we have used Red Hot and Blue, but we want to try something different this year. Is there another BBQ place that caters large parties?
Tom Sietsema: Rocklands in DC? Urban Barbecue in Rockville? I like both.
Washington, D.C.: Hi, Tom; not a question but a complaint, about Mendocino Grille on M St in Georgetown. My wife and I went there a week ago and while the food and service were reasonably good, it was horribly expensive (2 appetizers, one glass of wine, and one coffee each for $73 plus tip) and it was outrageously noisy. I've been on quieter active construction sites. The experience reminded us why we hadn't been there in a while.
Tom Sietsema: Wow. Did one of those appetizers involve lobster or foie gras? And what kind of wine were you sipping? It helps to know, you know?
Just got back from New Orleans (a great Jazzfest: cochon de lait po boys, pheasant-quail-andouille gumbo, boiled crawfish, soft shell crab po boys, crawfish pies, you get the picture). Wanted to thank you for your Herbsaint recommendation. We had a wonderful meal there on Sunday night!
Also want to give a plug for New Orleans. Tourism is the #1 industry there, always has been. One of the best things readers can do to help rebuild this important city is to GO VISIT (plus, it's a fun, tasty way to help). The Quarter is mostly open for business (with the sad exception of Brennan's, which remains closed for now), and there is plenty to do (and to eat!). By spending money in New Orleans, you are helping to pay the wages of those people who have chosen to return, plus paying sales taxes to a city that needs it greatly.
Anyway, just thought that the foodies reading your column might appreciate a good excuse to get down to NO!
Tom Sietsema: I agree! If anyone is still pondering where to go for summer vacation or even a long weekend, New Orleans would make a delicious getaway. I was pleased to see how successful Jazzfast is this year.
Corks: Instead of traditional corks, I am finding a lot of wines w/ a rubber/plastic like cork instead.
Tom Sietsema: Yep, plastic is big, too.
Champagne Poof-: A decade ago, I was in Sarajevo with NATO's Implementation Force. IFOR had only had only taken the mission from UNPROFOR three weeks before. I was one of the few distaff service members there. A friend had given me a bottle of Balkans Best-plastic cork and warm. We went to open it, in the filled to capacity, officer's mess. No sexy poof, but more a loud crack- it certainly got everyone's attention as they dove under the tables immediately.
Leaving my fellow female officers a little confused- until we realized how much it sounded like a gunshot and the others weren't aware there was bubbly in the room.
We shared, though it wasn't the best bottle I've consumed, certainly the most memorable.
Another time, a Brit taught me how to open a corked bottle by hitting it against a tree- but that's a story for another time.
Tom Sietsema: And how much wine does one get from a bottle that is whacked across a tree? Thanks for the laughs.
Philadelphia, Penn.: Do finer restaurants still offer the so-called "chef's table" if you request it in a reservation? The chef's table is actually -in- the kitchen of a restaurant. I've done this in Philadelphia, and since I'm going to visit DC this summer, I'm wondering if this is a local practice, or if it's even honored anymore?
Tom Sietsema: A number of restaurants offers chefs' tables: Galileo, Tosca, Citronelle .... (I know I'm missing some obvious others)
Down the street from the Post (15th and I): Does Pyramid do couscous? I'd love a good one just like mom used to make.
Tom Sietsema: Indeed it does.
Washington, D.C.: As a long-time restaurant rat, I'd like to weigh in on the screw-cap vs. cork debate. Screwcaps are better for your wine! They ensure freshness and vibrancy in wine, especially young, crisp whites. Their aging potential vs. cork is yet unknown, but for most of the wines that are consumed in 90% of the restaurants discussed here, screw caps are the way to go. Those who bemoan the "lack of ceremony" should witness the lack of ceremony involved in throwing away yet another bottle of corked wine, which averages one bottle in twelve across the industry.
Also, if you hear a wine cork or champagne cork pop when your bottle is opened, then your wine steward didn't do it right. A bottle of still wine should emit no sound when opened properly, and champagne should only emit a slight "hiss".
Tom Sietsema: Thanks for the insight. I'm an advocate of a light "pop", as I said, not a conversation-stopper.
Montgomery Village mom: For frosted sugar cookies what about Heller's Bakery in Northwest DC. Here's a link to their menu and they do have sugar cookies. I bet they would work with you.
A question Tom, my kids and I are attending the Ralph's World concert at the National Geographic auditorium on Saturday afternoon. Any suggestions for a kid friendly dinner spot nearby that's open on a Saturday. Thanks much!
Tom Sietsema: Heller's! Of course! Near NG, a tricky neighborhood for dining: 15 Ria in the Washington Terrace Hotel or Rice on 14th St.
Arlington, Va.: Just a kind word about Heidelberg: When I moved to Arlington, I received a "new resident" coupon pack in the mail and there was one from the bakery for a free loaf of bread. At the bakery, I showed the lady (who I think was one of the owners) my coupon and she asked what I wanted. I told her a nice white bread was good, but that I was willing to try something else. My fiance grew up in Germany, I told her, so was there something she could recommend? She gave me my free loaf and proceeded to cut hunks of bread off of a few other loaves for my fiance to try. She kept on saying "here...he would like this" with every big bread chunk. I left with not only one free loaf, but the equivalent of more than one in bread samples. What a nice thing to do for a new customer and of course, I continue to return. I wish all places were so willing to introduce new customers to their foodstuffs!!
Tom Sietsema: That's hospitality for you! And see how you're spreading the (good) word on this chat, which goes out to the world?
Frederick, Md.: When we went to California I was only able to make a reservation at one restaurant and I chose Chez Panisse in Berkeley. I was so excited to finally to be able to go there. We went to the wine store to choose our wine and after much deliberation choose "Cardinal Zin". Finally at the restaurant we presented our wine and the server asked if she could open it for us. She took the bottle and said "oh great a screw cap!" She was very gracious and went on and on as to it being the newest and best thing. I then asked her if we were still going to be charged the $20 corkage fee. She smiled and said "yes". So I said well "Well instead of our wine being corked we've been screwed" WE all laughed!
Kill Devil Hills, N.C.: What are you having for lunch today?
Tom Sietsema: Leftover dim sum.
Indianapolis, Ind.: Tom, did the woman whose husband worked in the rat-laden kitchen of a well-respected restaurant ever email you the name of the establishment? If so, can you give us any hints?
Signed, An Indy Tom fan
Tom Sietsema: I got my answer (!) and was surprised at the restaurant. Of course, these things need to be checked out first ... I also heard from the women who were groped by the staff at a popular restaurant (!) and have yet to hear back from the flak for that restaurant. Maybe she's thinking I don't really want an answer?
Arlington, Va.: Tom - What's your current favorite first-date spot in the District (or Arlington)? I'm thinking weeknight drinks and nibbles with the possibility of dinner - ability to hear each other speak a must!
Tom Sietsema: For awhile it was Cashion's, then Palena, now ..... Lima maybe? It's new and smart and if you order right, pretty pleasing.
Near National Geographic: Luna Grill!
Vienna, Va.: Do you ever say "to hell with it" and go to Applebee's?
Tom Sietsema: No. But I've done that with Uno's, Burger King, Taco Bell and the Post cafeteria before.
Arlington, Va: We are celebrating mother's day a week early. Have any suggestions for a moderately priced brunch in NoVa or Georgetown? Thanks!
Tom Sietsema: Ah, what a wise diner you are! Northern Virginia: Majestic Cafe in Old Town Georgetown: Bistro Francais, Bistro Lepic or Cafe Divan, the charming Turkish spot near the Social Safeway.
Washington, D.C.: Tom...Imagine this: You're a girl. Wait, that's not all. You're a girl, with a soon-to-be mother-in-law who is an incredible chef and caterer. Incredible. Just the BEST. With very high standards (for quality of food, not so much atmosphere). Since she lives out-of-town, she has left YOU in charge of choosing the location for your rehearsal dinner. 80 people, indoors, in DC, metro accessible, casual, and price is (allegedly) not an issue. What do you do?!
Tom Sietsema: You're asking for a lot there -- and I'm not sure what you mean by "casual-but-price-is-no-object" -- but a few restaurants come to mind: the wine bar above Bistro Lepic in Georgetown, Circle Bistro in the West End, Tabard Inn in Dupont Circle, Zaytinya in Penn Quarter and Zola, also in Penn Quarter. All are close (or fairly close) to a Metro stop, all have private rooms and all offer good-to-very good food.
South Riding, Va.: We love reading your reviews and trying out some of your suggestions but your restaurant picks tend to focus mostly on WDC and Bethesda. Can you offer good recommendations of where we could take our out-of-town guests in the Fairfax/Chantilly area? They like all kinds of good quality food. Thanks Tom.
Tom Sietsema: Marylanders would probably argue that Northern Virginia gets more space from me, but that's another topic. In Fairfax, I like Le Tire Bouchon for French, Sakoontra for Thai, Artie's for classic American and the roaringly popular Coastal Flats for seafood.
Chevy Chase, Md.: Kids in restaurants. I was at Mamma Lucia's in Bethesda a few weeks ago and this table of Mamma's with about two kids each had managed to dominate their little section of the restaurant. A similar episode happened at the Guapo's in Tenley, where a table full of parents were just ignoring their kids as they wreaked havoc up and down the aisles, in and under the tables. One parent even was playing Superman with their kid over the table, much to the laughter and joy of everyone at their table. The occasional scream, the thrown toys, and the complete disregard by the parents of their children's actions seems to be the norm these days. It doesn't worry me -- it infuriates me.
So, is it rude for me to tell them to have their kids pipe down? For the record twice (politely) I have and twice I got the "he's only 4" response. Or am I better off telling the manager like a tattle-tale? I - and a lot of my bar-tab heavy friends - avoid Austin Grill like the plague for this reason. The kids actually run around the bar. It. Is. Not. Cute.
With these cheap-quick but good eating places becoming Romper Room, do the owners feel that they're better off catering to this crowd? They must because they do nothing about it.
I don't want any of the "the world has to have kids" argument either. This isn't about birthing rights, it's about common courtesy and economics.
Since my wife and I are a couple of DINK's, we have the opportunity to go out when we want and pretty much where we want. Going out is still special to us and while those with kids find it perhaps a bit more special to get out of the house like this, a restaurant isn't a playground and if this is how you raise your kids at home you should know there are five tables around you thinking you're a bad parent.
Parents take note. When your kid(s) is running around and creating a fuss everyone in your visual vicinity are irritated by it. Everyone. No one thinks it's cute, even when the kid comes up interrupts someone's meal to show them their bread, bringing faux smiles to the unwilling participants in the exchange. Every time they throw a toy on the ground, we all hear it, and every time after that we hear it more and more. We're paying the same cash you are and are out to have a good time. Don't ruin it for everyone by not controlling your kids.
Tom Sietsema: I love to see children in restaurants, as long as they're behaving. (How else will they learn how to conduct themselves at a public gathering?) And I hate it when care-takers don't monitor the behavior of their charges. If adults can't keep their offspring under control, it's up to the restaurant staff to remind the adults -- firmly, politely -- that the dining room is not a playground. Something along the lines of this should do the trick: "For the safety and comfort of your fellow diners, we ask that you stop playing Superman with your adorable child. We'd hate for anything to happen to him or us."
Mother's Day?: Submitting early and in a frenzy! Where can I take my mom for a nice not-too pricey (no more than $70 all inclusive for the two of us) mother's day brunch? Outdoor options a plus. On my list: Firefly (though no outdoor seating) and The Chart House (not so much for the food as the waterside). Tabbard is not an option, as much as I adore it. Thanks!
Tom Sietsema: Outdoors and under $70. (You're not drinking, right?) I'm thinking Ardeo in Cleveland Park, Cafe Saint-Ex on 14th St., the Carlyle in Shirlington, 15 ria in Logan Circle and Cashion's Eat Place in Adams Morgan.
Expecting in Washington, D.C.: Hello, dear Tom. I am trying to find a nice space for an upcoming baby shower. Can you help? We are expecting about 20 guests for brunch/light lunch fare and I'd like to keep the costs to around $20/person. I'd love a private dining room, too. Am I just a crazy pregnant lady or does such a place exist here in the District?
Tom Sietsema: Your best bet may be the Penn Quarter branch of Teaism, which has an Asian-inspired menu -- and a downstairs dining room that could easily fit in your group.
Whacked wine: Actually, if you don't mind bruising the contents, the entire bottle. (If you didn't already guess, it's Marci here.)
You hold the bottle horizontally and assertively pound the bottom into the bark (processed wood is a diaster- too hard) the forced hydrostatic pressure of the wine, pushes the cork out slowly. Usually about six whacks is enough to get the cork far enough you can pull it the rest of the way.
I didn't believe it until I saw one demonstrated.
Tom Sietsema: Kids, don't try this at home! Sounds like a British "Jack Ass" try-out. Marci, nice to hear from you. And with that, I bid you all a great lunch and a great rest of the work week.
Washington, D.C.: For the chatter seeking sugar cookies -- try Furin's on M St. in Georgetown. They'll do custom decorations on their very sugary sweet cookies.
Tom Sietsema: One last suggestion. Chow. And ciao.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema answers your questions, listens to your suggestions and even entertains your complaints about Washington dining.
| 305.73913 | 0.913043 | 3.608696 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042800923.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042800923.html
|
Federal Diary Live
|
2006050419
|
The first week of May is Public Service Recognition Week, and kicks off on the Mall at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 4. Federal agencies will host exhibits that demonstrate the services they provide to the public through Sunday, May 7. Public service advocates are marking the week with celebrations, and some are holding forums on the challenges facing the federal government as baby boomers retire and agencies gear up to recruit new employees and reshape their workforces.
Carl Fillichio, executive director of the Public Employees Roundtable at the Council for Excellence in Government, joined The Post's Stephen Barr, who writes the Federal Diary column, to take your questions and comments about this special week on Federal Diary Live Wednesday, May 3, at noon ET.
The Public Employees Roundtable has sponsored Recognition Week for 21 years. Roundtable members include 25 major organizations representing about 2 million federal, state and local government employees. The nonprofit works to inform Americans about the quality of the people who serve in government and promote interest in public service careers.
Fillichio, in addition to his Roundtable responsibilities, serves as the Council for Excellence in Government's vice president for innovations and partnership programs. A graduate of John Carroll University in Cleveland, he is a former Clinton administration deputy assistant secretary of labor. At the Labor Department, he coordinated public affairs activities for the No Sweat campaign, a public education effort aimed at ending sweatshop conditions in the garment industry.
Stephen Barr: Thanks to all joining in this discussion today, especially Carl Fillichio, an organizer of Public Service Recognition Week. Carl, let's start with an overview of activities that may be of interest to Diary readers, and would you toss in your tips on what's new and different about this year's celebration? Again, thanks for taking time to join us.
Carl Fillichio: Thanks for having me Steve ... and Happy Public Service Recognition Week everyone.
Well, this year, we've added a lot more state and local activities. More than 150 mayors and governors have issued proclamations designating May 1 to 7 as Public Service Recognition Week ... and we're hearing from folks all over the country that they are celebrating in unique ways. In NY for example, a group of federal, state and local public servants rang the closing bell at the NY stock exchange. And I heard that the IRS sponsored a special "thank you" ice cream social for employees, and I think that's great. And then there's all the activities on the Mall starting tomorrow, which I'll talk about next.
Carl Fillichio: We are kicking off the National Mall event with a breakfast featuring Postmaster General John Potter as the keynote speaker. The events on the Mall start at 10 a.m. with a very strong focus on safety and security, science and technology ... so there will be plenty of cool new things.
Arlington, Va.: Surveys consistently show that young people are less interested in government careers than they were in the past. OPM has unveiled an effort to encourage more people to consider government careers. But doesn't this take more than a public relations effort? Look at the larger message put out by more powerful players than OPM. News stories suggest that the White House emphasizes loyalty to the President. High level dissenters often are disparaged (think Paul O'Neill et al.) We hear a lot about efforts at message discipline, punishment of leakers, etc. The through line seems to be, "you must toe the line," rather than, "let's strive do the right thing and figure out how to bring more voices to the table so as to ensure a good outcome." Given the fact that the administration seems hopelessly locked by its limitations into a struggle with how to handle internal dissent and even how to have candid debates, is it any wonder that so many young people look at Federal service and say, "nah, not for me." That's too bad, because we need fresh talent.
Carl Fillichio: We do need fresh talent ... and we need to think about new ways to attract them. There are lots of reasons "not" to go into government ... you mentioned some ... but there are more reasons to do it ... frankly, I cannot think of a more satisfying professional experience than what I had at the labor department. One important thing we must do is simply ask young people to consider government ... we also have to stop thinking about it as if it is a life-long career. We've got to make it easier to get in. I think today, a successful career is a combo plate of experience in the nonprofit, private sector and public sector ... we've got to make it easier for people to move in and out ... and employers have got to recognize the value that this type of experience brings to their enterprise.
Retiree Replacements: Christopher Lee's article in Monday's Post briefly touched on an interesting problem for federal job hunters: the "red-tape-laden" hiring process. How can this issue be improved? I have a government job and now my husband would like to enter the federal system. He has a master's degree and has used my resume/KSA/etc. as guidance on numerous job openings (as we all know it's like trying to write an engineering manual) but he has YET to get a response. No interviews, no rejection letters, no acknowledgement notifications have been received after submitting his applications.
How can we, as job applicants, help OPM find us and not ignore or look over us? What tools can we use to write better, more noticeable applications?
Carl Fillichio: I remember 20 years ago, when I first came to D.C. ... I worked in the private sector and I wanted to work in the federal government ... so I had to fill out what was then called an SF171 ... well, I never filled it out because it petrified me.
I came to government as an appointee, and there were challenges there, but it was much easier.
I think OPM is trying very hard to streamline the process and make it less mysterious and faster ... if that doesn't happen, people will look elsewhere.
Stephen Barr: Carl, are there themes on any of the four days of the Mall event? And how much time do you think a family should set aside for a visit to the exhibits? Thanks.
Carl Fillichio: There is a very strong focus on safety and security, science and technology ... and I really think there is something for everyone at the Mall ... open tomorrow from 10 to 5. ditto for Friday ... 9 to 4 on Saturday and military exhibits only from 9 to 4 on Sunday.
If you have small children, plan to spend the day! The military exhibits are very interactive, and kids can climb aboard the tanks and helicopters ... Smokey the Bear will be there, so will Woodsy Owl, McGruff the crime dog and the new DHS mascot, Rex the mountain lion ...
But there are also cool things for adults ... and interesting things for teens (lots of CSI-like exhibits that are very interactive).
Plus we have the Air Force rock band and other very cool stuff.
Stephen Barr: Since we have a number of Diary readers interested in federal employment opportunities, Carl, do you know whether the Office of Personnel Management will sponsor a booth this year and have someone there to field job-related questions? Thanks.
Carl Fillichio: OPM will have a major presence at the Mall event on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and there will be folks there to demonstrate America's job bank and answer questions ... it really is a great time to learn more about the employment opportunities in the federal government ... OPM booth is always staffed by knowledgeable helpful people.
Arlington, Va: It seems to me that OPM has made various announcements like this over the years about how they are going to make the hiring process easier. But nothing ever seems to come of it. In my experience as a government employee it takes at least six months to hire anyone, and often it is closer to a year. I think that is also one reason people hang on to federal jobs for so long, getting back in is very very hard. Why can't we just send in resumes to the hiring office and note veterans and other preferences on one line of the resume? What is so wrong with that?
Carl Fillichio: Frankly, I think we're going to get to an easier system sooner than anyone thinks ... the entire retirement situation in the federal sector (state and local, too) is going to demand it. it's going to get faster, easier, etc.
Washington, D.C.: Considering the recent criticism about civil servants not being willing to work in Iraq, this event seems to be an excellent opportunity to recognize the courageous employees who did volunteer. Is there any plan to do so?
Carl Fillichio: Yes, you'll see some great exhibits in the military tent on that. please stop by and thank those folks!
Stephen Barr: The Council for Excellence in Government announced four federal finalists for the Innovations in American Government Award yesterday, as you know. In past years, the Roundtable has honored state, local and federal employees for their services. Is this still the case, and if so, can you give us a scoop today, Carl?
Carl Fillichio: The Public Employees Roundtable became a part of the Council a year and a half ago ... as a result, the PER leadership made many changes. Among the many smart things they decided was to focus their energy on PSRW and drop some of the other activities. The ideas was let's do even better with something we do really well already ... so that's why you see PSRW get better every year ...
I do want to take this opportunity to congratulate the federal finalists of the innovations award ... and to encourage everyone to learn more about them ... and to apply for the award. It comes with a $100k prize.
Agency: Public Service Recognition Week is this week? Wow, I work for a federal government agency and I didn't know this. Science and technology, huh? I wonder if the agency I work for will be representing there, since we are an agency that specializes in science and technology. Are agencies invited or do they submit an application to display at the event?
Carl Fillichio: All agencies are invited ... we have two tents (one military and one civilian) plus lots of cool exhibits and demonstrations on the Mall grounds. please come check it out!
And if your agency is not represented, I hope you will encourage them to participate next year.
Washington, D.C.: I think it would be interesting to do a survey asking those in federal service whether if they had it to do over again, and they don't, whether they would. I doubt very many would say they made the right choice.
Carl Fillichio: With all due respect, I disagree ... the CEG has more than 750 members, all whom served in government ... they all say the same things. They loved it. Where else can you make such an impact? Where else do you get a front row seat to history? Where else is the workplace and workforce so diverse & where else can you do what you are passionate about every day? I have a great job right now, but I miss my time at DOL! I loved every minute of it ... and I had some tough patches there!
Stephen Barr: Carl, we've got a number of questions on the issue of how to best bring fresh blood into the federal service. Does the Council or the Roundtable sponsor any long-range programs, such as fellowships, to encourage young people in government? Thanks.
Carl Fillichio: We are going to be announcing a very exciting effort with GEICO very soon regarding ways to better connect and motivate young feds ... so watch for that.
We are also involved in the emerging leaders program at DHS and hope to build that program at other agencies.
But for all the talk about the young folks, we cannot forget the people who are there now ... early or mid-career that will be there for a while. We've got a terrific leadership development program here at the council ... for G 14 and 15ers (exceptional 13s too) that has been heralded as the best outside the business world.
Stephen Barr: Re the agency question, what's your latest count on participation by agencies? Thanks.
Carl Fillichio: With agencies, sub agencies, etc. It's more than 200 ... and let me tell you, there is something for everyone at this.
La Jolla, Calif.: I am enjoying the dialogue, but let's address an important and often overlooked fact about federal recruitment and hiring. While it goes without question that much improvement has been made to get bright young persons interested in exploring and perhaps entering public service into entry level positions, the truth remains that in the mid and upper level positions inbreeding is rampant. The unfortunate truth of the matter is that the worst offender, DOD, and most especially the Dept. of Air Force, systemically and routinely recruits positions federal-wide and/or to all sources (where applicants from outside DOD or even the federal government can apply), but the hiring outcomes for these positions in these grades reach near 100 percent levels of inbreeding, meaning only current or prior DOD staff are ever hired, be they DOD GS, recently retired DOD military members, or DOD contractors. Near 100 percent levels of "we take care of our own (under the pretense of concocted fed-wide or DEU recruitments) inbreeding in any organization, much less a public funded institution is wholly unacceptable. I'd like to read your comments.
Carl Fillichio: I cannot specifically address that example ... I'm just not familiar with it. But we do need to have a conversation about the future of public service at all levels ... the judiciary is a great example. Bright young lawyers are not going into government service because of student loans ... and lots of judges leave for private practice because the salaries are low. When I was a kid, if your mom or dad was a judge, you called them Judge Blank ... well, that's not the way a lot of people see it these days; you can't eat prestige.
These are important questions ... the conversation cannot take place in a vacuum.
I'm glad your enjoying the dialogue ... I'm a slow typist and a very bad speller!
Burke, Va.: Mr. Fillichio, How do you answer people who point out the "Big 3" reasons why young people aren't interested in the civil service?
1. It takes FOREVER to get hired, even on something routine (It took me 60+ days on an internal hiring with the same agency.)
2. Most people will need to get promoted multiple times before they reach a level with any real responsibility (in DC that's a GS-11+)
3. Money--Uncle Sam pays less than many of the local school systems!
Carl Fillichio: I agree with all of it ... and Mr. Fillichio is my father, my name is Carl! I just addressed a lot of your comments in a previous posting ...
Washington, D.C.: I'm 26 and a lawyer for part of the Treasury Department, and I love it. However, I think this will probably be the only federal job I will ever have.
The agency I work for came to my law school during on-campus interviewing and made the hiring process really transparent, efficient, and streamlined. No writing of "KSAs" (the very idea of that bureaucratic process makes me feel slightly unwell), etc. The bureaucratic red-tape-filled hiring system for most other federal jobs has turned off many of my law-firm friends that would otherwise love to switch over to a federal job. They're used to submitting resumes, writing samples, and recommendations, and doing interviews - not writing essays on how they best fit the position, as if it were some kind of nationwide competition to win a trip around the world or something. I wouldn't go through that process willingly.
Kill KSAs and you improve the system greatly.
Carl Fillichio: I have a feeling/hope that your next employer ... non-profit or private sector ... is going to appreciate your government experience.
I talk about this a lot and it bears repeating ... we used to look at a successful career as one company for a long time and then a gold watch at retirement. today the average worker changes jobs more than a dozen time by the age of 32. That's not instability ... it's mobility.
And don't be surprised if in the future you have a longing to going back into government ... I hope by the time your 46 and you make a lot of money in the private sector, you consider returning to government federal state or local and share your expertise to benefit your country and mentor young lawyers. I wish you luck.
Anonymous: Some federal agencies seem to be respected internally by the administration but not by taxpayers. Others, like the one for which I work, are constantly applauded by our customers for the services we provide yet lack respect from the administration. Our agency serves other federal agencies, as well as state and local agencies, private organizations, and individuals. However, the administration targeted our agency during the last budget proposal as one that could easily be eliminated and the rationale behind that judgment was severely flawed. As employees, can we say nothing? Can we not write our congressmen, senators, the president to present our views? I believe in excellence in government, as do my coworkers. However, the budget cut we have suffered is making our performance suffer because we are now operating on a shoestring budget and our staffing is below critical level. I fear that soon the customers we used to please will soon become disgruntled because of the decrease in services.
Carl Fillichio: This is exactly why we do Public Service Recognition Week ... we want to shine a bright spotlight on the great work that public servants do. There are so many advocates for public servants ... do some research and find a group that shares your vision and work with them.
Anonymous: Mr. Fillichio, you say you loved your time at DOL. However, because you were an appointee, do you not have to concede you were appointed at a level higher than most entry-level government employees and probably bypassed some of the problem areas that still plague lower-level employees? I too love the work I do, but wish fewer stumbling blocks would exist so I could complete my work faster, more efficiently, and with greater impact.
Carl Fillichio: Fair question ... but I worked my way up from a special assistant to the DAS ... I could also get fired at will.
One of the things we've got to do better in government is mentoring ... both through formal programs and just the informal ways ... and better mix the mentoring between career and appointees and vice versa.
Alexandria, Va.: Several others have mentioned this already but the total lack of communication during, and after, the federal hiring process is simply unacceptable - and embarrassing.
Can't OPM or individual agencies AT LEAST send an e-mail to the applicants informing them of their status? Examples: An automatic message every week or month informing them that the process is ongoing, or that the posting has been pulled or that the job has been filled.
Here's hoping some one will read and act on this (and get my incentive award)!
Carl Fillichio: I'm groping to be honest here ... government and the private sector can be better at this ... the follow up to applicants. But government should do this better than anyone else.
The drastic retirement wave is going to force change. we'll see it happen. I am convinced of that.
Stephen Barr: Carl, thanks for taking questions today and giving us a preview of Public Service Recognition Week activities on the Mall. If Washington Post readers want to learn more about the Mall bash, where should they look? And, again, thanks for sharing your time with us!
Carl Fillichio: This was fun! ... And to all the public servants, thank you for what you do! Please come to the Mall and say hello (I'll be there all the time, wearing a big puffy Uncle Sam hat! Really)
If you want more info about the Mall event, please log on to http://www.excelgov.org/.
See you on the Mall, and again, thank you for your service ...
And thank you Steve Barr, not just for having me as your guest today, but for being the hub of ideas and actions in the federal community ... everybody learns something when they read your column.
Happy Public service Recognition week everyone ... and again, thanks for your terrific work ... !!!
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Carl Fillichio of the Council for Excellence in Government joined Washington Post Federal Diary columnist Stephen Barr to answer questions about navigating the federal workplace. Federal Diary runs weekdays in the Business news section of The Post.
| 106.564103 | 0.871795 | 1.897436 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042800915.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042800915.html
|
Ask The Post
|
2006050419
|
This Week: Don Podesta, assistant managing editor for copy desks, was online Wednesday, May 3, at noon ET to take questions and comments about editing and headline writing throughout The Washington Post. Podesta oversees the staff of copy editors who pore over stories for spelling, grammatical and factual errors. Copy editors also play a large role in forming the headlines that appear in the paper.
Don Podesta: Thank you all for coming to the site with your questions.
Alexandria, Va.: I'm curious about The Post's conventions for referring to reporters. For instance, some reporters (e.g., Robin Givhan) refer to themselves as "we," and others use phrases such as "X told a reporter."
Givhan's practice works, most of the time, for her because her writing is so deliciously arch, but, even so, it can get tiresome. The "told a reporter" construction seems absurd; it sounds like the source was speaking to someone other than the person who wrote the article.
Is there an internal standard?
Don Podesta: You raise a good point. We don't have an internal standard for how reporters and columnists refer to themselves in print, and maybe we should. It would probably be a menu of standards, though, as I doubt one size would fit all. For instance, a critic or columnist might just write in the first person, while a news reporter who witnessed a bombing or car crash might approach it differently.
Alexandria, Va.: How do online headlines differ from print headlines at The Post? And how important is the lead for online writing, compared to print?
Don Podesta: Excellent question. We find that clever headlines and anecdotal ledes or suspended interest ledes on the print side are a disservice to our Web site. The reason for that is that so many readers of our Web site now come to it "sideways," from search engines or links on blogs. So a headline built around a play on words might not turn up in a search on that subject, no matter how relevant to the search the story is. That means headlines on the Web site need to be much more straightforward and written in the traditional subject-verb-object syntax.
Hanover, N.H.: What is your background/experience? How long have you been doing this job? In my experience, copy editors are the unsung heroes of newspaper journalism. How do you maintain morale, reward good performance, maintain a reliable check on what you are doing?
Don Podesta: I've been in journalism for 36 years starting in college. I've been a police reporter, copy editor, layout editor, assignment editor, a foreign correspondent (South America) news editor,and senior editor in charge of technology, research and computer-assisted reporting. That's what I like about working at The Post: One is never bored. You're quite right that copy editors are often the unsung heroes of the newsroom. Part of my job is to make sure they don't remain unsung. Keeping up morale for people who work nights, holidays and weekends, often anonymously, is not easy. Making opportunities for copy editors to try other things, involving them in important projects, providing training and rewarding them with raises are among the management tools available to help with that.
Baileys Crossroads, Va.: "Lay" and "lie" are different words. Even in the sports section, there's no excuse for a paper of The Post's national standing to run stories about people "laying" around waiting for things to happen. Please stop this. Now. Thank you.
Don Podesta: You are absolutely correct, and we should not be making errors like that.
Rockville, Md.: If I understand correctly, the reporter does NOT write the headline. Why is that? Sometimes the headline does not seem consistent with the main points that the reporter was trying to get across. It seems like the reporter is the best person to write the headline. Why am I wrong?
Don Podesta: There's a certain assembly-line aspect to producing a newspaper. A reporter is out covering a beat, conducting interviews, etc. for one story. By the time the page on which the story is to appear has been designed -- which is what determines the size and shape of the headline and the number of lines -- the reporter is on to other things or is off work for the day. Copy editors handle multiple stories and they are on the job at night, when the pages are made up. Also, it's best for a fresh set of eyes to read the story and make an independent determination about what the story wants to say. A writer who might be off the mark in constructing the body of the story -- and everyone needs an editor -- is apt to repeat errors in a headline. When I worked at a small newspaper where reporters were pressed into service to write headlines, we wrote each others' headlines, not our own.
Anonymous: Do you ever hire people who don't have a full journalism background? I was a copy editor for my college daily and enjoyed it much more than reporting. Since then I've had several long-term writing jobs in the IT field, but I don't often get the chance to do the substantive, quick-turnaround editing at which I excel (according to my bosses). Does The Post ever use part-time or fill-in people?
Don Podesta: Rarely. And in the current economic climate for newspapers, finding jobs without previous newsroom experience is going to be even more difficult, I'm sorry to say.
Eugene, Ore.: Hi Don, you may not be the guy to handle this, but you're the one here today so ...
Like almost all newspaper readers, I hate jumps. Now with the invention of washingtonpost.com (one of the best examples of online journalism) we don't have to suffer, page, turn, look and search for the continuation of stories we want to read completely. But ... the practice continues.
I've heard that the reason stories jump online is because of some glitch in the publishing software. Ok. So fix it! Failing that (probably expensive solution), can I suggest you steal an idea from the NY Times?
They have a new system there and one of the nice tweaks is a link that allows readers to see the entire story on one page! It's good!
Can't y'all figure out how to do that here? It can't be much more difficult than the link you use to format stories for the printer.
Don Podesta: Thanks for the suggestion. We'll look into it.
Arlington, Va.: I hope you can settle a bet for me. (A Dick Van Arsdale bobblehead rides on the outcome.) My friend claims that The Post would never hire a graduate of Camelback High School. I say that's poppycock. Which of us is right?
Don Podesta: Camelback High School in Phoenix? Aside from the fact that Camelback was my own high school's archrival, I can't think of any reason a graduate from that school would be blackballed. Why do I think you might be a ringer?
Clarksville, Md.: I saw the phrase "go easy on the crap" in the Health section Tuesday. I was put off by the slang usage. Am I behind the times?
Don Podesta: I'm sorry you were offended. We try to avoid using that kind of language in the paper.
Columbia, Md.: I recently obtained my BA in English literature and would like to become a copy editor at a newspaper. What next?
Don Podesta: Approach small- to medium-sized local papers and ask whether there is a copy editing test you can take. If you worked for your college paper, a portfolio of clips would help. Most newspapers don't require entry-level editors to have degrees in journalism, but they do require experience. If you have none yet, the best way to get in the door is to demonstrate that you have a knack and a passion for editing and can learn on the job quickly. But that would preclude most large metro dailies as a starting point.
Bowie, Md.: I often see possessive errors in the Sports section. For example, I see "Joe Gibbs's team," instead of "Joe Gibbs' team." Also, is correct grammar thrown out the window when you're trying to fit a story into a space? A lot of times, there are run on sentences or fragments, but the point is still conveyed though.
Don Podesta: No throwing correct grammar out the window here. The only time we would willfully use incorrect grammar is for effect in a column or feature story where such use is part of the story or helps convey the point of the story. But it would be clear to the reader that it is being used as a literary device, and not that the writers and editors don't know better.
Annapolis, Md.: We produce the Tribruin, Broadneck High School's student paper. Our headlines tend to be boring ("Broadneck gets award"; "Students take test") or goofy ("Leatherbury lays down the law"). With most stories, it's naturally tempting to use the school name or "students" as the subject. How can we make our headlines and decks more interesting?
Don Podesta: Making headlines interesting is a challenge for us, too. Constraints of time and space often leave copy editors with little room to be creative. For headlines on features, we strive to be entertaining as well as informative; we encourage wordplay without falling back on groaner puns. The one rule of thumb I would suggest you pass on to your student editors is to have them ask themselves when they've written a headline but before they've send it on to be typeset: "Are these the very best words to get a reader interested in this story? Would I read a story with this headline on it?"
Washington, D.C.: What standard does The Post follow concerning foreign names of institutions or universities? Do copy editors always try to come up with an English-equivalent name? How much time would they spend on a translation (or is this strictly the reporter's responsibility)? Or does The Post always use the foreign name as it stands?
Also, when and how does The Post acknowledge that a foreign government has officially changed what it calls a city (Bombay to Mumbai) or country (Burma to Myanmar)?
Don Podesta: It's a bit of a mix. Where names of places and institutions have long-established English translations, we use them. A prime example was our decision to write it Turin, not Torino during the most recent Winter Olympics. Similarly, in our usage it's Brazil, not Brasil, as it's spelled in Portuguese. For most foreign place names we take our lead from the National Geographic Society Atlas. For universities we would translate: University of Buenos Aires, not Universidad de Buenos Aires.
Why is it that the general media, The Post included, uses grammatically correct English word order (adjective-noun) to describe different types of fighters (crime fighters, freedom fighters, street fighters, prize fighters, etc.), yet when the story concerns jet-propelled military aircraft built to perform the aerial combat mission, these aircraft are almost always described using the ungrammatical construction "fighter jets" (noun modifying a plural adjective)?
The correct term is "jet fighter" (short for "jet-propelled fighter"). "Fighter jets" makes as much sense as "fighter streets," "fighter crimes," "fighter prizes," etc.
Don Podesta: Hmmm. I'll have to look into that. I sense you're right because I don't believe we would write "bomber jets."
Leesburg, Va.: It would be wonderful if you could spread the word to your editors that the past tense of the verb "to lead" is spelled "led" ... not "lead." I cringe every time I see this error in The Post, which occurs regularly. For example, in today's Post the caption under the photo on page A12 is: "Elizabeth V. Lodal has lead Thomas Jefferson high school for six years." AGHH! This is basic grammar. Please spread the word. Thanks.
Don Podesta: Will do (I suspect I just did). Thanks.
Dunn Loring, Va.: Do your copy editors write the headlines for the washingtonpost.com blog entries, Specifically, Marc Fisher's blog entries? I'm trying to understand why his entry discusses Herndon's voters rejection of illegal immigration but the headline only refers to immigration, as if there is no differences between the terms.
Don Podesta: Our copy editors at the newspaper do not write the headlines for blogs on our Web site. When we export our stories as they have appeared in print, the headline is often picked up on the Web site, but it can be changed by the web producers, who are physically in a different location from The Post's newsroom.
Washington, D.C.: Hi, I'm an editor too, and I have high respect for the copy editors at The Post (and their headlines, too). I'm curious about the term "undocumented immigrants" -- what does it mean? It sounds like an immigrant who lost a piece of paper or something. Why don't you use "illegal immigrants"? I suppose it's because some people find it pejorative, but it is more clear than "undocumented." (BTW, I'm a Spanish-speaking supporter of increased immigrant rights ... and also a supporter of clear language!)
Don Podesta: This has been a hot-button issue. To many "undocumented immigrant" or "undocumented worker" sounds like a euphemism. Here's what our manual of style says about that:
"When used to describe immigrants, this is a euphemism that obscures an important fact -- that they are in this country illegally. In general, use illegal immigrant (but not illegal alien. The word alien is repugnant to some people). Terms such as undocumented worker may be used for the sake of variety. Despite what Webster's says, do not use illegal as a noun, as in Jimenez is an illegal."
That said, my own personal belief is that over time "undocumented" is more accurate. We've had amnesties in the past, and there are bills in Congress now addressing the status of immigrants. Someone here illegally one day can be here legally the next. But not having papers means not having papers.
Greenbelt, Md.: I find it ironic that newspapers - specifically newspaper headlines - use such bad grammar. Each day on your Web site you have headlines such as "Opponents of Illegal Immigration React Angrily." Isn't is more correct to write "Opponents of Illegal Immigration Angrily React?" Or "After Protests backlash Grows," instead of "Backlash Grows After Protests." And also, would you tell your reporters that "impact" is not a verb and "closure" means to bring finality to a situation rather than physically shutting something down?
Don Podesta: You are right that "impact" is a noun and not a verb. On "closure," our dictionary (Webster's New World College Dictionary, Fourth Edition) supports its use to mean a closing or shutting down of anything -- and offers "cloture" as shutting off parliamentary debate. Not sure I agree with you that the headlines you cite are ungrammatical. More of a matter of cadence -- how it sounds to the ear.
Fairfax , Va.: Hi and thanks for chatting,
What is the best headline you have read this week?
Don Podesta: "Pistil-Packing Thieves Just Uproot and Leave" on a story about about plant thefts.
I teach professional writing courses for the University of Maryland. My students don't believe me when I tell them that a good editor is God's greatest gift to a writer.
As one on the front lines of communicating life-or-death info to the world, how do you help professional writers appreciate the help that editors like you give them?
Don Podesta: By saving them from embarrassing factual and grammatical errors and improving their prose to make their stories clearer and more readable. Beyond that, a newspaper copy editor writes the headline that gets a reader to pay attention to the writer's work in the first place.
Silver Spring, Md.: Why should individual newspapers select among various softer sounding words rather than just using the immigration terminology as it is defined in the U.S. code?
Don Podesta: When appropriate we use official terminology, but that does not mean we let the government edit the newspaper.
Silver Spring, Md.: Why not tell the reader from Bowie that Gibbs's is not an error at all, and then explain why?
Don Podesta: Thank you for pointing this out. Gibbs's is correct, according to our style because:
Use 's to form the possessive of singular nouns, proper names and nicknames ending in a sounded s: Lucas's new movie, the boss's secretary, the Boss's big concert, the chorus's big moment, the lass's skirt, Philip Glass's opera, Mars's anger, Zeus's wife, James's book, Dr. Seuss's books. But use the apostrophe alone for ancient and biblical proper names of more than one syllable ending in -es: Demosthenes' orations, Xerxes' conquests. (But: Gonzales's nomination, Frances's recipe.)
Washington, D.C.: Please explain how you decide what stories go on the front page. Why are the headlines so big? How do your people do it? Do they have very much time?
Don Podesta: Big question! Settle back for a long answer. Each department (National Foreign, Metro, Business, Style and Sports) pitches stories for the front page at a meeting we hold every day at 2 p.m. The editor running the paper that day, usually the executive editor or the managing editor, runs through the list and announces his early leanings about which of the 20 or more stories that have been offered he wants to look at more closely. Obviously on big news days (Katrina, the pope dying, election night) some of these choices are givens. The top editor and the editor on the news desk designing the front page for the next day consult as they read the stories and winnow the list down to six. Later-breaking news is considered as well. Around 6 p.m. a draft of the front page is taken into a second meeting, where the stories that have been drawn onto the page are discussed. Everyone around the table gets to weigh in, and often changes are made based on those suggestions. What we look for in front page stories? A good mix of important news, relevant to our readers lives and at least one lighter, entertaining, surprising piece of writing to give the page variety and engage as many readers as possible.
Washington, D.C.: How many complaints do you get about the puns in headlines? I enjoy them and think are an encouragement to read the article.
Don Podesta: Surprisingly, not many. Wordsmiths by nature enjoy plays on words, but we do have to guard against too much of a good thing.
Fairfax, Va.: Hope I am not too late. Please explain the difference between "more than" and "over" and the proper uses for each. I see over used all the time when I believe more than is the correct phrase. Thanks.
Don Podesta: "More than" refers to quantity. "Over" can as well, but since it also means (1) to be physically above a point in space or (2) to be finished (as in "The game is over") "more than" is the better term.
Arlington, Va.: Do you feel that you're under enormous pressure in the online chat to ensure you aren't making grammatical or typographical errors? (Not to impose any, just curious!)
Don Podesta: Yes, but knowing that I'm an imperfect human being, I'm sure I'm making my share of typos.
Washington, D.C.: As anyone can see on the Saturday Free for All letters page, readers are upset at the many wrong word choices that pepper the paper. Examples: isles for aisles, teaming for teeming, etc. The most horrific appeared earlier this year in the Sunday magazine, with a reference to Stalin's forced removal of residents from "the Caucuses" rather than "the Caucasus." Are your copy editors simply editing by spell check -- any properly spelled word will do, whether it's the correct one or not?? (I e-mailed the magazine editor about the Caucasus blooper and never got a response. I specifically wondered if the writer got it wrong or, worse, the copy editor made it wrong.)
Don Podesta: See answer just posted about imperfect human beings. It's not that our editors don't know better. Catching every error in the equivalent of a medium-sized novel in a matter of hours every day is impossible. But it remains our ideal.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Don! Thanks for doing this chat. Without getting overly specific, I work for a local education-based organization. Recently a student newspaper at a highly regarded Ivy League school used the name of our organization in a headline. The headline suggested some association between our nonprofit and an illegal service which we have absolutely no affiliation with. The article went on to explain that there was no association however the headline was extremely misleading. The editor refused to change it saying that "In an effort to help readers understand the subject of a story, often headlines must be somewhat less specific." I know I'm not giving you all the details here, but what other recourse does an organization have in these cases and what rule of thumb does the editor go by in making these decisions? Does this sound right to you?
Don Podesta: While true that headlines often must be less specific in order to convey the overall theme of the story or because of space constraints, it's indefensible to write a headline that creates a wrong impression -- especially if that impression is detrimental to the subject of the article.
Columbia, Md.: To the reader who doesn't like the "paging" in the Web version of the Post: The "Print This Article" link leads to a non-paged version of the article.
Don Podesta: Thank you for pointing this out.
Hays, Kan.: Hi, Mr. Podesta:
Local headline about a high school athlete with the last name of Munsch who broke a record: "New record to Munsch on."
Ugghh. When does the cheese-factor on headline writing go too far?
Your "Pistil-Packing Thieves..." example seemed to have a nice balance of cleverness, cheesiness and news value to capture readers' attention.
But is there some official standard headline writers are held to or is the standard more of a gut check?
Don Podesta: That just doesn't cut it. For a pun to be appropriate in a headline, it has to be consonant with the tone of the story, and the pun has to work on all levels. The athlete isn't chewing on his new records, so that one goes nowhere.
Richmond, Va.: What do you think about the San Antonio Express-News' decision to ban puns in its headlines? For me, writing good puns was one of the best parts of being a copy editor.
Don Podesta: It's not good to ban language from the paper. Avoiding cliches, loaded language, off-color words is the right thing to do, but you should never say never because there will come a time when an exception is needed.
Munich, Germany: Regarding "Pistil Packers" and snappy headlines being a disservice to readers, don't most Internet searches do a full-text search? Most Internet pages also have a keyword field that search engines use.
Don Podesta: Some search engines hit headlines and abstracts.
Alexandria, Va.: Should up to date be left unhyphenated when it appears on its own? Or is that not up-to-date?
Don Podesta: I would write it "My journal is up to date," but "This is an up-to-date list." Hyphenate the compound adjectives.
Woodbridge, Va.: How do your friends and family feel around you? Do they fear you correcting their grammar? How do YOU feel when you hear someone use the wrong words or terms or general bad grammar in conversation? Do your friends' kids come to you to edit their term papers? What are your pet peeves in reporters' copy or grammar in general?
Don Podesta: You mean because I always want to edit the sign at the supermarket checkout line to read "10 items or fewer," as opposed to "or less?" They're mostly used to it by now -- I think. My grandfather was a newspaper editor, and he used to correct my grandmother and everyone else at the dinner table, so I grew up with that mindset, I'm afraid.
Arlington, Va.: Is it difficult to copy edit for columns and articles written in a more leisurely tone, like in the Style section? Are there different style standards for different sections to compensate for contractions, slang and the like?
Don Podesta: I would argue that it's easier. You can let the writer have her or his voice without getting too uptight about it and those kinds of stories give you a much bigger canvas to paint on when it comes time to playing with the words.
Potomac, Md.: It seems that sometimes you go out of the way to use a pun. It seems as the desire to appear to be clever outweighs choosing words that are more accurate. Any comment?
Don Podesta: We never want to overreach or we risk pun-ishing the reader.
Baltimore Md.: Is there still such a position as rewrite man/woman on newspapers? I ask, because in one obit for Louis Rukeyser, he said he never had to fight writer's block because, "I was chief rewrite man for the Baltimore Evening Sun back when it put out nine editions a day." That got me wondering if the position still existed, or whether reporters write their own stories in their entirety now, which are then edited by copy editors.
Don Podesta: Not so much at the newspaper, but we're doing something similar to that in our Continuous News Department, which is the section that feeds breaking news written by our reporters to the Web site in real time.
Don Podesta: Well, I see I've reached the end of my time. Thanks to you all for your interesting, engaging, smart questions. Sorry I couldn't get to all of them.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Don Podesta, assistant managing editor for copy desks, took questions and comments about editing and headline writing throughout The Washington Post.
| 224.166667 | 0.958333 | 11.208333 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2006/05/ohio_primary_day_primer.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2006/05/ohio_primary_day_primer.html
|
The Fix -- Chris Cillizza's Politics Blog on washingtonpost.com
|
2006050419
|
With fewer and fewer contested elections each cycle, today's primary in Ohio is an embarrassment of riches for political junkies.
Not only will the state's voters pick the Republican nominee for governor, they'll also choose candidates in five contested House races. Below The Fix provides a cheat sheet on the races; use it to impress your friends and vanquish your enemies or, at the very least, to help you follow the results tomorrow night.
Check this blog again this evening and tomorrow morning for updates on winners and losers; raw vote totals are available at the Ohio Secretary of State's Web site.
Let's start with the two most controversial races on today's ballot -- the open-seat contest in Ohio's 6th District and embattled GOP Rep. Bob Ney's primary challenge in the 18th District.
GOP Aims for Early Knockout in the 6th
In this southeastern Ohio district, the question is whether state Sen. Charlie Wilson (D) can win his party's nomination as a write-in candidate (after he failed to collect enough signatures to get his name on the ballot). The National Republican Congressional Committee is working hard to keep Wilson from winning the nomination, going so far as running television ads and sending direct mail pieces that attack his little-known opponents (Bob Carr and John Stephen Luchansky). The NRCC's theory is that by attacking Wilson's opponents as being "too liberal" for the district, Democratic activists may be convinced to support them fearing that Wilson is "too conservative" for their tastes.
Insiders predict that Wilson, who has the unanimous support of state and local party organizations, will win the nomination. Should Wilson advance he is likely to face off against state Rep. Chuck Blasdel (R) this fall in one of the most competitive districts -- by the numbers -- in the country. President Bush carried the 6th by 49 percent to 47 percent over John Kerry in 2004, but Rep. Ted Strickland, the likely Democratic nominee for governor, has held the seat since 1996.
A Slam Dunk For the Democratic Nominee?
While Rep. Bob Ney's Jack Abramoff problem appears to be mounting, he should easily survive today's GOP primary challenge from financial analyst James Harris. Ney has won the unanimous support of county chairmen in the 18th District and continues to raise solid money -- $474,000 in the bank of of April 12.
The Democratic race for the right to take on Ney in the fall is between attorney Zack Space and Chillicothe Mayor Joe Sulzer. Sulzer was the early favorite in the contest, but Space has run a surprisingly strong campaign, and national Democratic strategists describe the primary race as a pure toss up. Sulzer has had a financial edge in the campaign's final days; he had $172,000 on hand as of April 12 compared to Space's $76,000. Whoever winds up as the Democratic nominee, this is a prime pickup opportunity for Democrats due to Ney's potential legal problems.
The other main event today is in the gubernatorial race, where Secretary of State Ken Blackwell appears to be pulling away from state Attorney General (and former Auditor) Jim Petro in the Republican primary. Several polls released in the final days of the race pegged Blackwell as the frontrunner, with leads ranging from 12 to 21 points. Blackwell, who is African American, would be the second black Republican to win a gubernatorial nomination this year(former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lynn Swann won the GOP nod in Pennsylvania).
While a Blackwell victory would make national news, he would still start the general election behind Ted Strickland, a deficit due in no small part to the ethical problems surrounding outgoing Gov. Bob Taft (R). Blackwell used television ads to link Petro and Taft in the primary and is likely to stay as far from the incumbent as possible in the fall. Nonetheless, Blackwell will not be able to erase the "R" after his name, which could seal his fate among the state's disgruntled voters. The Fix ranked the Ohio governor's race as the second most likely gubernatorial seat to change parties this year in out most recent Friday Line on governors races.
Here's a quick look at the other action in the state today:
*Ohio's 2nd District: Former Rep. Bob McEwen (R) is hoping for an upset over Rep. Jean Schmidt (R) in a rematch of their 2005 special-election clash to replace Rep. Rob Portman, the newly nominated head of the White House budget office. Schmidt took 31 percent of the Republican primary vote, edging out McEwen who received 26 percent.
McEwen argues that he only lost that race because the conservative vote was split among several candidates, a division that allowed Schmidt to sneak through. This time he is the lone challenger to Schmidt and -- in theory -- will unite the conservative base behind him. But beating an incumbent -- even one who has struggled like Schmidt -- is no easy task. McEwen has, however, stayed financially competitive with Schmidt thanks to more than $130,000 in personal donations.
Although Democrat Paul Hackett nearly upset Schmidt in last year's special election, he turned down entreaties from party leaders to run again after deciding to drop from the Senate primary. As a result, the Republican victor today will have little trouble holding the seat in the fall.
*Ohio's 4th District: What started as a cakewalk for state Sen Jim Jordan has turned into a battle royale as free-spending businessman Frank Guglielmi has pulled into a dead-heat with the Republican frontrunner. Guglielmi has poured $1.5 million into his campaign -- a massive total for a House race, and one that has put Jordan, who had raised $672,000 as of April 14, back on his heels. This district, which is being vacated by Rep. MIke Oxley, went for President Bush by 25 points in 2004 and will not be seriously contested in the fall.
*Ohio's 13th District: The Democratic primary to replace Rep. Sherrod Brown -- the party's nominee against Sen. Mike DeWine (R) this fall -- features four legitimate candidates: former Rep. Tom Sawyer, 2004 14th district nominee Capri Cafaro, attorney Betty Sutton and former Cleveland city councilman Gary Kucinich (brother of Rep. Dennis Kucinich of Ohio's 10th District).
Democratic strategists say the race has come down to Sawyer, who held a seat in Congress from 1986 until 2002, and Sutton, who has been bolstered by the strong involvement of EMILY's List. While Sawyer began the race with a considerable name identification edge over Sutton, he has raised just over $50,000 -- a platry sum compared with the $420,000 Sutton has raised. The X-factor is Cafaro, who has donated more than $1 million of her own money to the campaign. Republicans believe that if the controversial Cafaro manages to win the nomination they have a very good chance of taking the seat in the fall, despite the fact that Kerry won there by 12 points in 2004. Lorain Mayor Craig Foltin is the likely Republican nominee.
By Chris Cillizza | May 2, 2006; 6:00 AM ET | Category: Governors , House Previous: Calif.: Dems Battle It Out to Take on Schwarzenegger | Next: Mark Warner's Middle East Journey
TrackBack URL for this entry: http://blog.washingtonpost.com/cgi-bin/mt/mtb.cgi/6410
Listed below are links to weblogs that reference The Battle is Joined in the Buckeye State:
» Primary Day Open Thread" from "Ohio 2nd Blog I’m going to be posting links here in the comments as I find them. If you’ve got anything, stand up. Blue Chip Review > Tom Brinkman Sounds Off On Jean Schmidt The Fix > Ohio Primary Day PrimerDems in the 2nd should read this just t... read more »
Tracked on May 2, 2006 09:58 AM
Blackwell deserves to be frogmarched for his conduct as Attorney General during the 2004 Presidential election. Black voters should turn out in droves against a figure who disenfranchised them.
Posted by: Intrepid Liberal Journal | May 2, 2006 07:53 AM
FYI Blackwell is Secretary of State not AG.
Also, full conversion statewide to the electronic voting systems will play a part in today's proceedings.
Cuyahoga County, the largest county in Ohio, is doing so for the first time.
Also, while the primary results are in little doubt, it will be interesting to see the vote totals for Senator DeWine and whether token opposition draws voter support as a sign of dissatisfaction with GOP leadership in Ohio.
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 09:00 AM
Let's stop with all this paranoid conspiratorial crap about Blackwell, Bush, Ronald Reagan or any Republican disenfranchising anyone. Plain and simple, we outhustled ACT, ANSWER, Moveon.org and the paper tiger Democrat Party who did not get much more than 60% of their voters to turn out and vote while we were averaging 70%+ in our areas.
Blackwell merely enforced Ohio election law, nothing more nor less. Keep in mind that Ohio elections are actually run by local county elections boards, borads and staff that are equally Democrat and Republican who keep an eye on each other that all business is conducted according to state and federal election law.
Ken Blackwell was in Sheffield last Friday at 9:30 in the morning to meet with two groups of people. He first met with 41 Black ministers and their friends. Topic: the economy, stupid, not gays, not guns, not cultural matters but taxes, jobs, education and training. Many of these Blacks are Democrats and they asked him specifically about the so-called Black disenfranchisement. Bottom line-- there was none. In fact, there is documentation that local boards of election responded to long lines by sending more voting booths. They went away satisfied with his answers. Many of these Blacks will be working with us here in Lorain County for Ken Blackwell and Jeanette Bradley, our current State treasurer who is also up for relection. beginning tomorrow.
The next group he met with was a diverse group of mostly white but also Hispanic and black voters and not party regulars. I might add that virtually all of the Lorain County GOP leadership has supported KB and will do so through November.
For those who are unfamiliar with Lorain County, this is not SWOhio but Democrat stronghold NEOH. We're the county just west of Cleveland. To get a diverse group of 100+ on a Friday morning during work hours for a Black Republican candidate is telling.
Already I have heard the Dems gloat that Strickland has it made and the party rooms are being booked for November. Indeed I hope they underestimate Blackwell and the rest of our ticket.
If you want to continue to believe the crap about stolen elections, go right ahead and bottoms up on the Kool Aid.
Posted by: vivabush04OH | May 2, 2006 09:13 AM
DEM Primary Flannery 20% Strickland 64%
REP Primary Blackwell 54% Petro 37%
Plain Dealer/Mason Dixon April 24-26 DEM Primary Flannery 11% Strickland 64%
REP Primary Blackwell 50% Petro 29%
Survey USA April 20 REP Primary OH-2 McEwen 33% Schmidt* 56%
OH 6 April 20 DEM Primary Carr 9% Lucnhansky 6% Wilson 54%
REP Primary Blasdel 41% Ginter 11% Harmon 11% Stobbs 2%
OH-13 April 13 DEM Primary
Cafaro 24% Grace 10% Kucinich 15% Sawyer 21% Sutton 14%
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 09:18 AM
DEM Primary Flannery 14% Strickland 86%
REP Primary Blacwell 56% Petro 44%
President Clinton recorded a message being sent by automated phone calls for State Sen. Charlie Wilson in the OH-6 race urging voters to write-in Wilson.
Rep. Chuck Blasdel scrambled to reach a settlement on outstanding taxes owed on two businesses he owned. The original tax estimate was in excess of $50,000. He ended up setlling with AG Jim Petro to pay $9,492 plus fees. Sweetheart deal? Blasdel was also endorsed by the US Chamber of Commerce while little known opponent and US Army veteran Dick Stobbs was endorsed by his Vietnam Commander, former Brigadier General Thomas White, former Secretary of the Army.
OH-15, OH-18 US Reps Pryce and Ney benefited from illegal fund raising activities by Freddie Mac, which received the largest fines in history from the FEC late last month ($3.8 M fine).
Rep. Pryce is also getting a fundraising boost from First Lady Laura Bush, who is special guest at today's (May 2) noon luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Columbus.
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 09:36 AM
Chris: You're going to have to pay attention to OH 13 especially after today. Our strongest candidate is Lorain Mayor Craig Foltin who is one of the best politicians I know. He has won 4 city-wide elections by swinging Democrat and independent votes in overwhelmingly Democrat areas. Lorain is about 10-1 Dem while the 13th District is split 60-40% Dem-GOP.
I am plesantly surprised to see RMill's Survey America numbers showing Cafaro leading Sawyer and Sutton. If in fact she is in the lead it is because of the huge amounts of money she has poured into the campaign. Money will not be an issue in November in this race since the NRCC is committed to winning this seat.
Sawyer has the most name recognition but not in Lorain County and frankly the resputation is a negative one especially amongst the union people who have been actively campaigning against him. I personally would rather see him win since the union folks will probably take a walk in this election in the fall.
Sutton on the other hand is the most dangerous of them all, what with all her outside state monies from EMILY's List and unions. I'm glad to see that she's 3rd behind Cafaro and Sawyer. Unfortunately it appears that Sawyer is fading.
Posted by: vivabsuh04OH | May 2, 2006 09:38 AM
Sorry, I made a mistake
However, the on-the-ground reports seem to back up that Sawyer is fading, Sutton is surging and Cafaro's money has kept her towards the top. I believe that it will still come down to Sawyer and Sutton. If Cafaro wins, I'd vote for Foltin (gald I won't be put in that position, voting in Cuyahoga County).
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 09:42 AM
The 'paranoid conspiracy crap about Blackwell'? There's no conspiracy. He's just a sleazy common criminal, like Bob Ney, like Jack Abramoff. But that's what passes for 'leadership' in the modern republican party.
Posted by: Drindl | May 2, 2006 09:43 AM
Blackwell is a definate media hound and the most "politically active" Secretary of State in a long time.
His political activities on behalf of Bush in 2004 caused a stir, but not enough to do anything about it. A constitution amendment was offered to disallow such political activity from the public official in charge of elections and it was soundly defeated by Ohio voters.
Personally, I'd like to see Blackwell lose and out of politics in Ohio and to limit the political activites of the State's chief elections officer, regardless of party. But its not my call.
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 09:46 AM
Surging to what, the bottom? Hell Kucinich is even ahead of her. RMill you usually know what you're talking about. Wishful thinking perhaps?
At 24-21% it would appear to be a deadheat between Sawyer and Cafaro and either one is beatable by Foltin. Love it.
Posted by: vivabush04OH | May 2, 2006 09:56 AM
being a female resident of lorain county i feel i must comment. all of the literature sent out by emilys list(to which i used to contribute) has been nasty and what i thought was beneath them. not once did they address any issue espoused by ms. sutton (to date the voters in lorain county have heard not one). she is counting on a ride on sherrod brown's coattail. emilys lists money could have been better spent i would think. also a point to address is that ms. cafaro has not begged for any money. if any one thinks mr. foltin is qualified just take a look at the state of affairs in the city of lorain-sad at best.
Posted by: lj | May 2, 2006 10:42 AM
lj, That the City of Lorain is as you say, the truth is that Lorain continues to bleed jobs and you yourself know that Ford closed last year and few businesses are coming in.
Also let me remind you that Foltin is just the mayor and every other elected office is held by Democrats. How do you think you'd do if you were the Democrat mayor and every other elected official was Republican? How much control would YOU have?
Foltin has worked miracles with the deck he has been handed. Lorain is far from a disaster and is doing as about one might expect given the conditions.
Posted by: vivabsuh04OH | May 2, 2006 11:03 AM
VB: while I know zip about Lorain your logic is circular since it leads us to conclude that Foltin is too weak to be mayor of Lorain, OH. If this is the case then why would you think he is suited to act as a Representative?
Posted by: Judge C. Crater | May 2, 2006 11:36 AM
Amazing how Cilizza failed to mention an Iraq war vet who is running in District 4, but his mention of Paul Hackett clearly shows his own bias. A Democrat who speaks against the war is given headlines and blog space, while a man like Nathan Martin, who served for over a year in Iraq, (came back in December) gets ZERO mention. Cilizza can't even mention his name, a real pity. But I bet since Nathan has clobbered all other Republican contenders in the debates, and is running ads across the District, that if Nathan does win tonight, I challenge Cilizza to speak about DAVID (Nathan) had enough rocks to clobber all other Goliath's.
Posted by: Angela | May 2, 2006 11:43 AM
The real story (that local media is missing!) is how new electronic voting machines in Central Ohio render an individual's vote effectively public by placing it in full view of other people at a polling place. No curtains. Voter intimidation should be a real concern.
Posted by: Ohioan | May 2, 2006 11:58 AM
well, when all is said and done, it's not about what the deadenders in the 32 percent (are we below 30 yet?) group want, it's about the massive and overwhelming landslide of voters who know that the middle class is doing worse and worse while Bush's comrades are doing better.
Get used to whining from the GOP - it's gonna be with us for quite a long time. Especially those going to jail for thier crimes.
Posted by: Will in Seattle | May 2, 2006 12:01 PM
In my experience with electronic voting, you stand away from other voters. There is not mob standing around you as you vote, so that is just silly to say it is so public. I hope to hear the report of high voter turnout today in OHIO, there is much to celebrate in our nation, instead of seeing leaders in other nation's assassinated (like the guy in Turkey). Voting is best, even for Democrats.
Posted by: Karen | May 2, 2006 12:04 PM
Capri Cafaro is not a great candidate. I hope Tom Sawyer wins. He's a decent and honorable man, despite what the obviously biased GOP worker or volunteer Vivabush posts.
The Unions will work for him (or anyone) over Foltin. How many people and jobs have left Lorain?
Blackwell is perhaps the worst candidate for governor Ohio has ever had (including Taft, and that's saying a lot). If you read the Post regularly, you'd also know that history suggests that white GOP voters are going to abandon him in droves in November, handing the victory to Strickland. It's not an opinion, it's what has happened to many other black GOP candidates, and there's certainly no reason to think it won't happen in Ohio. The GOP loves to claim that they don't have any race issues any longer, but their voting patterns suggest otherwise. (The same thing is likely to happen to Swann and Steele as well.)
Posted by: bob | May 2, 2006 12:17 PM
As a resident of Lorain County and an independant let me say for the record that it doesn't matter if Blackwell or Petro wins today. Petro is a crook who punishes businesses that don't give him money and Blackwell is a religious zealot. Neither one will win this fall, no matter what divisive issue Rove (if he isn't in jail) cooks up. Gay terrorists? Perhaps immigration? See how that helps the Republican candidate for the 13th district. Lorain is what, 70% hispanic? Watch how the Republican's message of hate and fear comes home to roost this fall.
Posted by: ImpeachBush | May 2, 2006 12:55 PM
I understand your concern about the "The Fix." The state of Ohio is nothing compared with the state of California.
If would like a real story on a " Fix in Progress" please feel free to investigate California...especially at the assembly and state senator races then of course our congressional races.
Thanks for your time and consideration.
Posted by: lbjgal | May 2, 2006 01:12 PM
Blackwell's campaign commercials were disgusting. What's that, no wedge issue to run on? Better try to re-hash Issue 1 from 2004 then. No message whatsoever, apart from "I hate gays".
I hope Petro takes him down, even though I'm a Dem who voted for Strickland and will do so again in November. Petro's sleazy, but at least he's not a sleazy bigot.
Posted by: Lorain Countyite | May 2, 2006 01:20 PM
The Fix is the name of his blog. It isn't in reference to Ohio.
Posted by: Yep | May 2, 2006 01:31 PM
The real story... is how new electronic voting machines in Central Ohio render an individual's vote effectively public by placing it in full view of other people at a polling place.
How skinny are you? Are the other voters standing over your shoulder? When I voted with a punchcard in 2004 it was the same kind of setup (no curtains, etc.). If you don't want people to see, stand closer to the machine, but the way the machines were setup where I voted today the person would have to be standing behind you to see, which would make it pretty obvious what they were doing.
Posted by: Andrew | May 2, 2006 01:31 PM
If Blackwell wins today, the second biggest winner is Mike DeWine.
In both parties there are constant arguments about whether the best way to win is to seek cross-over voters or mobilise the base. Both theories have some merit. DeWine's risk is that if Petro wins today, conservatives will stay at home in November. If Blackwell is on the ballot in November, conservatives will turn out. They may not be enamoured of DeWine, but given a straight choice between him and Sherrod Brown, they will hold their noses and vote for him.
Quentin Langley Editor of http://www.quentinlangley.net/
Posted by: DeWine's chances | May 2, 2006 02:14 PM
The Survey USA poll is at least three weeks old. What I said was reports from people "on the ground" was that Sutton was surging.
The wishful thinking is that you know Craig can beat Cafaro and maybe Sawyer but will have a tougher time with Sutton.
Any word on how voting is going in Lorain? Cuyahoga is a mixed bag. If the machines are working, everything is fine. Turnout will tail off this afternoon because of rain and news reports about problems getting machines up and running this AM.
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 02:25 PM
RMill: I voted at high noon and no one was in front of me so therefore no one was there to look over my back and see me vote for all the Republican winners. They told me that turnout was pretty good and had been pretty steady since 6:30.
It has rained off and on since Noon but we should just now be getting into the bulk of the voter turnout. Lorain has 3 levies on the ballot so that should get a yield of about 33-35%. There are levies in several other communities as well, 25 total so county turnout should be above the yield.
Posted by: vivabsuh04OH | May 2, 2006 02:43 PM
Blackwell merely enforced Ohio election law, nothing more nor less.
[What about starting his campaign for governor early by appearing regularly on Fox News during the fall of 2004? He should not have served in both positions. It's a clear conflict of interest that shows his serious lack of ethics.]
Keep in mind that Ohio elections are actually run by local county elections boards, boards and staff that are equally Democrat and Republican who keep an eye on each other that all business is conducted according to state and federal election law.
That's not true in Clermont County. http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a rticle?AID=/20060502/NEWS01/605020350/10 77
Partisan politics at work? Democrats stymied by GOP in Clermont BY HOWARD WILKINSON | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER
Tonight, every county board of elections in Ohio will have one Republican director and one Democratic deputy director supervising the counting of votes to ensure that it is done fairly.
Every county, that is, except Clermont - where there will be a Republican director but no Democrat deputy. That's because of a dispute between the Republicans and Democrats on the county Board of Elections.
Posted by: | May 2, 2006 03:15 PM
Blackwell merely enforced Ohio election law, nothing more nor less.
[What about starting his campaign for governor early by appearing regularly on Fox News during the fall of 2004? He should not have served in both positions. It's a clear conflict of interest that shows his serious lack of ethics.]
Keep in mind that Ohio elections are actually run by local county elections boards, boards and staff that are equally Democrat and Republican who keep an eye on each other that all business is conducted according to state and federal election law.
That's not true in Clermont County. http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a rticle?AID=/20060502/NEWS01/605020350/10 77
Partisan politics at work? Democrats stymied by GOP in Clermont BY HOWARD WILKINSON | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER
Tonight, every county board of elections in Ohio will have one Republican director and one Democratic deputy director supervising the counting of votes to ensure that it is done fairly.
Every county, that is, except Clermont - where there will be a Republican director but no Democrat deputy. That's because of a dispute between the Republicans and Democrats on the county Board of Elections.
Posted by: bob | May 2, 2006 03:16 PM
Embarrassment of riches for political junkies, wow, what a statement for a person who is paid for watching politics. The riches are with Capri Cafaro and her $1.9 million to finance her race in the 13th district against a woman financed by Emily's list with $420,000. Sounds like Ohio will have an economic boom with politics and advertising in April and the first 2 days in May. Wealthy businessman Frank Guglielmi might win the Republican nomination in the 4th District. I think the riches will benefit OHIO, nothing makes people spend their money like competition. Sadly, I think the Democrats pulled the rug out from under Paul Hackett and denied the people a chance to support him in the Senate race. Perhaps that move angered a few veterans who will sit on their hands rather than vote for power hungry Democrats like Brown.
Posted by: Jill | May 2, 2006 04:05 PM
Here's what I'm talking about...
DEM Primary Cafaro 24% Sawyer 24% Sutton 24% Kucinich 12% Grace 7%
Posted by: RMill | May 2, 2006 04:21 PM
If Jim Petro wins todays primary he will be seen as the status-qo candidate in the fall insuring a Ted Strickland win. Ken Blackwell has ran as a reform candidate (weather he is or isn't doesen't matter, that will be his strategy in November). Blackwell, as a Republican African-American, will get a large amont of "free" media coverage, and set up massive national battle for Ohio governor with the victoriuos party getting a step ahead before the 2008 election.
Posted by: Mike06 | May 2, 2006 06:03 PM
As an Ohioan, for me the question is not whether or not the 2004 election was thrown (in some 1930s smoky backroom sort of fantasy), but whether or not Ken Blackwell was trying to enfranchise voters or discourage their voting. Clearly, anyone with an eye or an ear in Ohio in fall 2004 witnessed repeated none-too-subtle attempts by the Secretary of State/Bush campaigner Blackwell (which role was foremost in his mind - or his public rhetoric, for that matter - who knows?) to discourage voting among first time voters, recognizing that while 'you' may have mobilized your base to vote, nevertheless the avalanche of first time voter registration was largely from Democratic strongholds and, thus, those voters were actively discouraged from voting, often being convinced that the secretary of state would seek any opportunity to throw out their ballots. And, yes, local boards generally oversee election procedures on the day of the election, but let's not be disingenuous: Blackwell attempted to recast accepted standards for accepting voter registration and throwing out ballots cast in the wrong precinct (even if the person had only moved that year within the county). Remember the debate over what stock paper the registration had to be on to be deemed 'acceptable' by the office of the Secretary of State? Nonsense. Rank discrimination, and shameless opportunism rather than statesmanship and enfranchisement.
Re: 'voting machines were rushed to underserved, chaotic areas'...I am not inclined to accept the word of such a demagogue (as you give for him, speaking to a bunch of Brothers, reassuring them about their little voting concerns... stooges, my friend; and if you don't think 'social conservatism' was the common currency in those meetings, you're less a politico thatn I thought).
No, the election may not have been 'thrown' in some paranoid version of events - although I stopped trusting the Diebold Corporation after their very chairman - a Bush 'Ranger' - vocally and openly promised to 'deliver' the state to Bush. Conflict of interest? Maybe in a society kinder and gentler than ours... In our society today it is rarely necessary to be so antiquated in one's methods as to cut a smoky backroom deal. That's a straw man, a false image...
And, yes, politics is a game to some: a sport, comparing averages and spending and percentages, betting on horses, et cetera. Unless this is grounded in some sense of justice, fairness, and social vision I find it nothing but the most anti-social cynicism, and its effect on American society is and has always been pernicious, and for the last two centuries.
Posted by: Mark | May 2, 2006 06:49 PM
bob - you hit the nail right on the head when you said that some white republican voters will not vote for Blackwell in November. There is a certain republican shill who regularly posts on ths blog about how, in his opinion, Blackwell will win over a large part of the black vote.
My thinking is, if some people will vote for him simply b/c he is black, then also some people will vote against him b/c he is black - it works both ways and that cannot be overlooked. This would explain why Strickland enjoys an 18-point lead over Blackwell when he is supposedly garnering such a large part of the black vote.
Posted by: Ohio guy | May 2, 2006 06:53 PM
To Rasmussen Reports Representative: President Bush Job Approval Poll Date Approve Disapprove Spread RCP Average 04/21 - 04/30 35.2% 59.3% -24.1% USA Today/Gallup 04/28 - 04/30 34% 63% -29% CBS News 04/28 - 04/30 33% 58% -25% Rasmussen 04/28 - 04/30 40% 59% -19% Cook/RT Strategies 04/27 - 04/30 36% 59% -23% NBC/WSJ 04/21 - 04/24 36% 57% -21% CNN 04/21 - 04/23 32% 60% -28% FOX News 04/18 - 04/19 33% 57% -24% Pew Research 04/07 - 04/16 35% 55% -20% Gallup 04/10 - 04/13 36% 59% -23% LA Times/Bloomberg 04/08 - 04/11 39% 57% -18% CNN/USA Today/Gallup 04/07 - 04/09 37% 60% -23%
Why are your numbers for "Bush Job Approval" so far off from other leading polling firms ? You are +10 points to Fox News ? How can your numbers be +6 to +10 off ? Rasmussen is nowhere close to every leading polling firm in the entire nation. How can your polling be that far off ? What is your margin of error ? Rasmussen polling and statistics are unreliable and inconsistent. Nobody wants to buy polling that is unreliable and meaningless. I have emailed Rasmussen 12 times and can not get an answer from them. About their polling.
Posted by: Polling Fraud | May 2, 2006 07:15 PM
Posted by: Mr. Right Angle | May 2, 2006 08:44 PM
Ken Blackwell will help bring Ohio back to the way the founders meant for this country to be: a Christian nation with Christian values.
Posted by: Leonidas | May 2, 2006 11:11 PM
How is he going to do that if he loses to Strickland? Looks like Blackwell will win the primary but Petro has like 46% of the vote thus far. Dewine has about 71% of the vote, almost 30% of Republicans are voting for one of the 2 other no names in the race.
Posted by: Rob Millette | May 2, 2006 11:24 PM
You owe our host an apology. He does not need to apologize for "refusing" to mention a candidate who drew THREE PERCENT in his primary for a safe Republican district! Yeah, just as newsworthy as Paul Hackett!
Posted by: Brittain33 | May 3, 2006 09:20 AM
"Ken Blackwell will help bring Ohio back to the way the founders meant for this country to be: a Christian nation with Christian values."
Actually the founding fathers meant this to be a SECULAR nation with moral values derived from religion(not necessarily christian). Your opinion is exactly why I'll never vote for anyone like Blackwell. Quit shoving your own values down everyone else's throat. PS - The Earth is not the center of the universe. Burning people at the stake for disagreeing with you is passe.
Posted by: IHATE BIBLETHUMPERS | May 3, 2006 01:02 PM
We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features.
User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.
|
Chris Cillizza joins washingtonpost.com as the author of a new politics blog called The Fix. Cillizza will provide daily posts on a range of political topics, from the race for control of Congress in 2006 to scrutinizing the 2008 presidential contenders.
| 157.659091 | 0.840909 | 1.295455 |
high
|
medium
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/02/AR2006050200620.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/02/AR2006050200620.html
|
Lay Finishes Testimony in Enron Trial
|
2006050419
|
HOUSTON, May 2 -- It was a scrap to the finish as Kenneth L. Lay concluded testimony in his fraud trial Tuesday, with the Enron founder accusing federal prosecutors of intimidating witnesses and the government countering that Lay contradicted his earlier testimony.
After a leisurely morning of friendly questioning from his defense lawyer, attempting to rebut government charges raised during three days of cross-examination, the prosecution pounced as soon as Lay was handed back for final questioning.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Hueston sank his teeth into the exchange, accusing Lay of flouting Enron's code of ethics -- a code Lay authored.
"Rules were important but you didn't follow them, right?" Hueston asked.
"Rules are important but you should not be a slave to rules, either," said Lay, who is charged with six counts of fraud for what the government alleges is his role in the 2001 collapse of the energy giant.
Lay tried to tussle with the dogged Hueston, saying he had intimidated former Enron executives who testified for the prosecution.
Of one, former Enron treasurer Benjamin Glisan, Lay said: "I think he was put in solitary confinement so you could work your will." Hueston stated that Glisan had received no deal from the government for his testimony. Glisan has served two years of a five-year sentence following a guilty plea for fraud.
Lay wrapped up his nearly six days on the witness stand this morning taking a final question from his lawyer, George "Mac" Secrest: "Did you love Enron?"
"I loved Enron very much and Enron's employees very much," Lay testified. "The most painful thing in my life was watching Enron" enter bankruptcy.
Character witnesses for Lay -- including Houston Astros owner Drayton McLean--are scheduled for the rest of the day, to be followed by technical witnesses discussing the more complex elements of testimony. This is the 14th week of the trial.
After that, there will be a government rebuttal and closing statements from each side before the jury gets the case. Lay's testimony came after former Enron chief executive Jeffrey K. Skilling spent eight days on the witness stand in the trial. Skilling is charged with 28 counts of fraud, conspiracy and insider trading. The government alleges that the pair conspired to hide Enron's mounting losses. When Skilling abruptly left the company in August 2001, Lay took over the chief executive's job through its bankruptcy in December 2001.
Before the pair testified, conventional wisdom was that the prickly Skilling could implode on the stand while the avuncular Lay, the public face of Enron, would charm the jury.
|
HOUSTON, May 2 -- It was a scrap to the finish as Kenneth L. Lay concluded testimony in his fraud trial Tuesday, with the Enron founder accusing federal prosecutors of intimidating witnesses and the government countering that Lay contradicted his earlier testimony.
| 11.355556 | 1 | 45 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/01/DI2006050100789.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/05/01/DI2006050100789.html
|
On Behavior Therapy for ADHD
|
2006050419
|
Patricia Quinn, MD, director of the National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD, was online Tuesday, May 2, at 11 a.m. ET to field questions and comments about behavior therapy as a means of treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Quinn is a developmental pediatrician in the Washington, D.C. area. A graduate of the Georgetown University Medical School, she specializes in child development and psychopharmacology. Quinn has worked for more than 30 years in the areas of AD/HD and learning disabilities. She gives workshops nationwide and has published widely in these fields. Quinn is the author of several books on AD/HD and the director of the National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD.
Going the Behavior Route (May 2)
Patricia Quinn, MD: Good morning! I'm pleased to be invited to respond to your questions in this forum. My hope is that this will be an informative discussion for you all.
Los Angeles, Calif.: Dr. Quinn, While psychopharmogolical options have been the favored method of treatment for ADD/ADHD over the past decade, how does psychotherapy compare to drugs as far as efficacy and efficiency? Thank you
Patricia Quinn, MD: Psychotherapy has not been found to be an effective treatment for ADHD. While it does address some of the related issues such as poor self-esteem, depression and relationship issues, it does not get to the core symptoms of inattention and impulsivity that the medications address. Recently, therapists have been using cognitive-behavioral therapy for those with ADHD and this seems to be working.
Potomac, Md.: If you believe your child could have ADHD what is the best course of action to take and who is the best person to go to for testing?
Patricia Quinn, MD: I would start by discussing your child's behavior with his or her classroom teacher and then contacting your pediatrician. Even if the teacher doesn't see any problems in class, I would still seek and evaluation if you are concerned about behaviors at home as that is usually the first place ADD reveals itself.
Washington D.C.: This session is good timing for me! I have been taking Methylin for about 18 months for my ADD. This is the first prolonged treatment I've used. In the last 6 months, I've had a recurrence of depression and anxiety that I've experienced on and off for years. My therapist is wondering if the Methylin is exacerbating my depression and anxiety? I have been experiencing obsessive negative thoughts and a severe general sadness. I guess there may be an anti-depressant that would address the depression and the ADD, but I am wary of other meds and like the Methylin because it it out of my system in 8 hours. Is the Methylin causing or intensifying my depression? Should I stop or switch to something else?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Stimulants may make anxiety and depression worse. However, we also see these other disorders frequently coexisting with ADHD. It is important that you discuss this with your physician as these other disorders may need to be treated in addition to your ADHD.
Washington, D.C.: I'm seeing a psychiatrist for anxiety disorder. My doctor told me I should get fully tested for ADHD, but my mind wanders and I do something else instead. That's a joke. My real question is, is behavioral therapy better for anxiety patients than drugs which can make you rather wired.
Patricia Quinn, MD: When a large study of medication effectiveness looked at this issue it found that patients with ADHD and anxiety were the most responsive to behavioral interventions. It is important to get both your anxiety and ADHD treated. Stimulants to treat your ADHD may increase your anxiety unless it is also being treated. Discuss treated both your anxiety and ADHD with your physician.
Rockville, Md.: Hi, I have been diagnosed with mild adult ADD. Doesn't seem bad enough to be medicated and while I know exercise can help, are there other things I can do to stay focused without meds?
Patricia Quinn, MD: A coach may be just the answer. ADD coaching has now been employed to help those with ADHD function better for some years now. It helps you set goals and work on achieving them. You may work with a coach daily or as needed to stay on task and get things done. Also keep up the exercise!
Rockville, Md.: I have 4 children. Their ages 10, 7, 5 and 18 months. I've noticed that my 5 year old is very active. He is so active that he is always hurting himself. He doesn't listen to me sometimes. Going to the mall is terrible. He'll start running around the store, doing cart-wheels. He ends up hurting himself most of the time. I don't know what to do. His teacher mentioned that I should get him tested for ADHD. I don't know where to begin. I went to a place called WATS in Silver Spring. I was not satisfied. Could you recommend places where I could have him tested?
Patricia Quinn, MD: I would suggest that you discuss your child's behavior with his pediatrician or family practitioner. Children with ADHD and hyperactivity are very accident prone and can have lots of problems both in school and relating to others. It is in your child's best interest to get him evaluated as soon as possible before he has a serious injury.
Richmond, Va.: Thank you for your work and taking our questions.
I am very concerned about the over-diagnosis of ADD/ADHD. In 5th grade my daughter's teachers/school counselor told me she had ADD and it was possible she would have to repeat the grade.(Or "probably" had it and I should get her tested/treated.) I frankly didn't buy it and first worked it as a study skills and confidence issue. The next year she was a honor roll student. Thank God I didn't listen to the school! And thank God I didn't get her pumped full of meds she didn't need. My question: How significant is false diagnosis of ADD? Also, who is the most qualified person (professional) to diagnose ADD.
Patricia Quinn, MD: Your questions are good one and aren't you fortunate that your daughter didn't have ADHD. In most instances ADHD is overlooked in girls and that your daughter's teacher thought about ADHD is very lucky. If your daughter did have ADHD her problems would have continued and she would have had to deal with it for many years to come as this is a lifelong disorder. Pediatricians, child psychiatrists, and other mental health professional are the most qualified to diagnose ADHD. However, many of them are not familiar with how ADHD presents in females.
Mendham, N.J.: Our child was diagnosed late (age 17) with ADHD and is not taking meds. What can our son do to help himself when he starts college far away on his own? He frequently forgets assignments in high school and it has affected his grades (interestingly, he gets A's in courses such as science courses, where he writes up the lab in class and therefore has no homework). Thank you.
Patricia Quinn, MD: If your son has a formal diagnosis, he can contact the learning disabilities specialist or special student services office on campus. They should be able to help him develop a program on campus. You also might look for an ADD coach in the area to help him stay on task and succeed.
Colorado Springs, Colo.: Where do I find a reputable coach for AD/HD?
Patricia Quinn, MD: There are several in the area, but coaching can be done online and by phone. Online look on www.americoach.org, www.addresources.org or www.addconsults.com list coaches.
I have an 8-year-old daughter in the 3rd grade in Fairfax County who has recently been diagnosed with ADHD by our pediatrician and school. She is taking both Adderall and Stratera with with minimal to satisfactory results (it varies depending on the week). While her academics are great (mostly "A" equivalents) her social behavior and impulsiveness need much improvement. She's defiant and although she has a very sweet side the teachers at school tell me she is callous toward the other students and adults. I'm starting to feel a little helpless. Are we taking the right medications? Besides medication what should I be doing to address these issues? If there are recommendations you can make for resources in my area that would be much appreciated. Thanks much.
Patricia Quinn, MD: Your daughter's medications may still need to be adjusted (sometimes methylphenidate works better), but she also needs to work on her social skills which are often problems for children with ADHD. Social skills training groups are held in Virginia at Stepping Stones run by Cathi Cohen. LCSW. Jewish Social Services in Rockville also has social skills groups for children.
Central New York: Is ADHD an organic condition (i.e. caused by some chemical or neurobiological deficit) or merely a behavioral problem? If it is the former, how can it ever be fully treated without medication to make up for the deficits?
Patricia Quinn, MD: It is a neurobiochemical condition (resulting from problems with the dopamine system in the brain)and needs both medication and behavior therapy. In addition, many people need help with organizational skills, social skills and therapy for coexisting conditions.
Anonymous: Beginning about 2 years ago, my daughter's therapist has voiced concerns that my daughter, who is now 14, has a mild or moderate form of ADD. However, I have been unable to persuade my ex-husband to permit my daughter undergo educational testing, even though my daughter has gradually come around to the idea (he is worried that it will stigmatize her). The experts in educational testing that I have spoken with say that need both parents' consent in a situation of joint custody. Would you recommend that I speak with my daughter's pediatrician about medication even if she has not gone through a formal diagnosis?
Patricia Quinn, MD: You certainly could start there and maybe he or she could evaluate your daughter and discuss the findings with your husband. In any case, it is important to pursue a diagnosis at all coats as untreated ADHD exposes teens to many at risk behaviors including substance abuse and increased auto accidents.
Mclean, Va.: Hello Dr. Quinn, You mentioned previously that AD/HD is a life-long condition. Our 4 year old was recently diagnosed with AD/HD, and we have been using a modified diet and supplements to address some of the symptoms as opposed to medicating a 4yr old. We also have taken advantage of occupational therapy resources to help out with the "life skills" that are a source of frustration and exacerbate inattention and lack of focus. In your experience, have you seen AD/HD symptoms diminish or go away as the child grows up? That is, when our son reaches high school, could he have "grown out" of the AD/HD condition? Thanks very much.
Patricia Quinn, MD: The hyperactive components of ADHD seem to diminish over time particularly in males. However, about 70% of adolescents diagnosed in the earlier years continue to have symptoms that affect their functioning and about 50% continue to have problems as adults.
Silver Spring, Md.: So, this may be a stupid question, but I have a son who was diagnosed with probable ADHD. However, he does have a moderate social imbalance with anxiety. So, I guess my question is which comes first, the chicken or the egg? Does the anxiety/social awkwardness lead to ADHD or vice versa? Does it matter?
Patricia Quinn, MD: ADHD is a neurobiologic condition. However, many with ADHD also have anxiety as a separate condition or as a result of the consequences of not having their ADHD diagnosed.
Silver Spring, Md.: Is medication the only therapy for ADHD? My brother refuses medication but at 52 he is still unable to succeed in the workplace (or any other place for that matter).
Patricia Quinn, MD: Medication is the only therapy that addresses the biochemical imbalance and the basic symptoms of inattentiveness, distractibility and/or hyperactivity.
Brussels, Belgium: Dear Dr. Quinn, We are Americans living in Brussels. My 18-year-old son has been diagnosed with ADHD. He also has auditory processing issues. (He goes to an American school, so language is not a problem.) He is a bright and popular kid who is getting ready to go off to college. He is not working up to his potential, but he is learning -- in fact, he retains an extraordinary amount of information in certain subjects. He just doesn't want to study much. We have chosen not to put him on medication even though it was recommended. I hesitate because ADHD meds seem to me to be one step away from speed or cocaine in what they do to the brain/body. My son is a football player and BIG: 6'3", 250 pounds. I feel stimulants would be a strain on his heart. He is able to concentrate for long periods of time, but only on what interests him. Aren't we medicating kids basically to make them work harder/act more as we want them to act? Yes, he's forgetful and disorganized and this does cause problems for him and for those who love him. But many teenaged boys are this way as well who have not been diagnosed with ADHD. So I'm torn: am I doing my kid a disservice by not trying meds, or am I doing him a service by not putting him on something for which the verdict (on long-term health and brain effects) is still out? I have also heard about kids who have ill effects even from just trying these meds, even if they didn't stay on them. Can this happen? Obviously we are also worried about how our son will handle the demands of college. I appreciate hearing your opinion. Many thanks for your time. --Francesca
Patricia Quinn, MD: If your son has no structural heart defects, stimulants only increase pulse and blood pressure minimally so that should not be a cause for concern. Stimulants have been used very safely and effectively for several decades (dexedrine was first used in 1937 and ritalin in 1956). Stimulants do not act like cocaine in the brain and have not been found to be gateway drugs to other drug use. To the contrary, adolescents with untreated ADHD have a greater risk of substance abuse.
How does your son feel about the effects ADHD has had in his life? He is the one with the disorder and I feel he should be heard at this age.
Alexandria, Va.: Can you tell me what, exactly, the medications used to treat ADHD, do in the brain to control the neurobiologic imbalance that causes this condition?
Patricia Quinn, MD: In certain individuals with excess dopamine transporter protein (DAT receptors), stimulants block the reuptake of dopamine from the synapse back into the presynaptic neuron by these transporters, thus resulting in a relative increase of dopamine in the synapse.
Washington, D.C.: I was diagnosed as ADD as a child, and went through tutors and medications. Now as I transition to the adult world I see my ADD effecting my life and work differently. What types of exercises do you go through in behavioral therapy? Which skill sets does therapy target? Thanks.
Patricia Quinn, MD: Behavioral therapy works best for children. Contracts and coaching works best for adults. A coach is a person that works with you on setting up and achieving both long- and short- term goals. Through a process of seeing what techniques work best for you, they help you become accountable for your actions.
Vienna, Va.: I am very concerned about giving my teenager ADHD medication since the FDA has strengthened the warning labels on several ADHD drugs, yet doctors seem to be at ease in prescribing them. How safe are these drugs (adderall, stratera, concerta...)?
Patricia Quinn, MD: The medications used for ADHD are safe and effective but are contraindicated in certain conditions. These include: severe anxiety or depression, glacoma, know structural cadiac defects and psychotic conditions. The recent FDA warnings are there to make sure that we don't take medicating anyone lightly and practice due diligence in making sure that we inquire and are aware of a patient's history and other medical conditions.
Springfield, Va.: Can you name some examples of behavioral therapy in children?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Behavioral therapies basically include two types - rewarding positive behaviors (token reinforcement, charts, etc.) and eliminating negative behaviors by time out, withholding of privileges or punishment. Most are in favor of the former. We all like to be rewarded and while negative reinforcement works it may not teach the behavior that we would like to see in place of the inappropriate one.
Anonymous: I'm late joining this chat, but today's article opens with the statement that Ritalin is associated with vivid hallucinations often involving bugs. Where do I find more on this? My 19 year old son with ADHD has a severe fear of bees to the point he won't go outside if their present. He has been on Ritalin since first grade. Any connection?LB in Hughesville
Patricia Quinn, MD: Fear of bees is not a hallucination (seeing something that isn't there). Instead, your son exhibits symptoms of a phobia. This can be discussed with a mental health professional.
Alexandria, Va.: I have a 17-year-old HS Junior who has been diagnosed with ADD, but who no longer takes medicine because it "makes him feel funny". He has a short attention span, is disorganized and forgets to do homework and/or turn it in. We hired a tutor, a special ed teacher, who came highly recommended. Although she has managed to help him somewhat, she has stated that unless he decides for himself that it's important to write down assignments or get organized, he won't do it.
My questions - (1)Is it ever "too late" to do behavioral therapy for a teenager? How can it be structured to provide respect for his age? (Rewarding with chips may seem juvenile to him.)
(2) Are there natural remedies such as a special diet or herbal therapy that may help somewhat? Are there homeopathic doctors that specialize in this?
Patricia Quinn, MD: As I stated in another reply, contracts work better with teens. It is important to realize, however, that if your son continues to have difficulty with distractibility and attention span that he is at risk while driving (for both accidents and speeding tickets). I would suggest that he discuss his symptoms and reasons for not taking medication with a professional who has expertise in the area of ADD.
Regarding your second question, there are those who specialize in alternative treatments of ADHD but few to date have been found to be successful.
Chicago, Ill.: Can you recommend books that describe appropriate behavior therapies? Specifically, books that can help parents of young children.
Patricia Quinn, MD: 1-2-3 Magic by Dr Thomas Phalen is an excellent book on behavior management techniques for use in children 2-12 years.
Bethesda, Md.: In response to one of your earlier answers, how does ADHD present itself in young girls?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Girls with ADHD may not have the disruptive behaviors exhibited in young males. They tend to be less hyperactive and more inattentive and disorganized.
Temple Hills, Md.: Is ADDHD genetic, does family history play a role, and is it possible to out-grow.
Patricia Quinn, MD: ADHD is a highly genetically inherited disorder. It is a lifelong disorder and one usually does not outgrow the symptoms although one can learn to manage them with good choices and life decisions.
Bowie, Md.: You said "Keep up the exercise" to an adult reader. Could you comment on the influence of physical activity on ADHD behavior in children? In my admittedly limited experience, ADHD seems much less prevalent in children whose lives, including their school setup, include more opportunities for physical activity.
This might also help explain why ADHD doesn't seem to have been a noticeable problem in previous generations, when people were more physically active.
Patricia Quinn, MD: All individuals with ADHD (regardless of age) do better when they can engage in daily physical activity. One recent study also showed that being in touch with nature (green spaces) also helped.
Alexandria, Va.: What is the impact of puberty on children with ADHD? Our daughter was diagnosed in 2nd grade, has been on medication since then and was doing fine. Since she became a teen, however, it sometimes seems as though we have returned to the old days. Is there any way to tell how much of her behavior is simply normal teen behavior?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Symptoms of ADHD seem to worsen in puberty especially for females. Hormonal influences are also noted. You can read more about this on our Web sites www.addvance.com and www.ncgiadd.org and in our book, Understanding Girls with ADHD.
Kansas City, Mo.: My son was diagnosed at 4 with ADHD. He is currently using Ritalin. I see the benefits of him taking the medicine. My concerns is with all of the press about the future ramifications of the drugs on him. I have seen differences in his anxiety level. Having a bad dream affects him for weeks. How do we manage today while keeping an eye to his future?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Your son's anxiety and bad dreams are probably developmental and have nothing to do with his medications or ADHD. Your concern, support, and love will certainly see him through.
Washington, D.C.: I do not have ADHD but take the same medicines that are typically prescribed for ADHD patients for narcolepsy. Should I be concerned that I might have the same kind of heart problems identified as dangerous side effects for ADHD patients? Are you familiar with the use of these drugs (Ritalin, Concerta, etc) for narcolepsy?
Patricia Quinn, MD: Your physician should be able to rule out any structural heart defects or other heart related conditions.
Arlington, Va.: I have a very bright, sociable 9-year-old son who loves to read and is very inquisitive. He is also very active, easily distracted, (at times) and bothered by loud noises. What is the difference between "normal boy" behavior and ADHD? Friends and I are of the opinion that local schools are far too fast to label boys ADHD and suggest the parents drug their child rather than deal with boys as boys. Thoughts?
Patricia Quinn, MD: The difference between overactivity and hyperactivity may lie in the purposefullness of the activity. In addition, in order to be labeled ADHD, one must be impaired by the symptoms.
Washington, D.C.: Is there any new information on causes of ADHD such as environmental factors or prenatal exposures? How strong is the link to tobacco and alcohol?
Patricia Quinn, MD: In addition to genetics, ADHD can also be caused by maternal cigarette smoking during pregnancy, exposure to lead, head trauma, brain infections, malnutrition, and extreme prematurity.
Patricia Quinn, MD: That's all the time we have today to answer your questions. I thank you for this opportunity and for your excellent questions. For more general information on ADHD and its treatments, you can go to www.chadd.org, the National organization for ADD information and the National Resource Center for ADD at www.help4adhd.org
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Patricia Quinn, MD, director of the National Center for Gender Issues and ADHD, fielded questions and comments about behavior therapy as a means of treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
| 133.057143 | 0.971429 | 16.571429 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100988.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100988.html
|
Going the Behavior Route
|
2006050419
|
What non-drug treatments work to combat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
It's a question more parents are asking doctors, prompted by new concerns about the safety of medicines used to treat a problem that affects an estimated 4.4 million American children.
In the past three months, two advisory committees of the Food and Drug Administration have recommended that warning labels on ADHD drugs, most of them stimulants such as Ritalin, be strengthened because of their possible links to rare cardiac problems and vivid hallucinations often involving snakes or bugs.
Concerns about misuse and overprescription of ADHD drugs, many of them chemical cousins of amphetamines, are not new. But hope that the common neurobehavioral disorder could be effectively treated without medication was dealt a severe blow seven years ago when a landmark study of nearly 600 school-age children found that medications were the most effective treatment.
That study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, also found that the best outcomes, measured by parental satisfaction and some academic standards, were the result of "combination" treatment: medications that reduce hyperactivity and improve concentration, and behavior therapy to address some of the more subtle symptoms, such as difficulty with organizational and social skills.
While other non-drug treatments -- play therapy, cognitive therapy, psychotherapy and special diets -- have been regarded as promising, only behavioral treatment has been shown to work. But experts caution that it is an adjunct to, not a substitute for, medication.
Although ADHD specialists say they consider behavior therapy a key component of effective treatment and one that has inspired a recent resurgence of interest, many parents don't invest the time and effort necessary for it to be effective.
"There's so much lip service paid to [combined] treatments, but a lot of people just rely on medication alone," said William L. Coleman, a developmental pediatrician at the University of North Carolina who is chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health. "We are a quick-fix society and we want results. There's a lot of time pressure on parents and on teachers."
A behavior therapy regimen can be developed by a pediatrician or a school psychologist or another mental health worker. Based on a structured system of rewards and consequences -- such as increased or decreased TV or video game privileges -- the program also includes changes in a child's environment to minimize distractions. Parents also receive training in how to give commands and ways to react when a child obeys or disobeys.
The goal is to incrementally teach children new ways of behaving by rewarding desired behavior, such as following directions, and eliminating undesired actions, such as losing homework, notes Ginny Teer, a spokeswoman for Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHAAD), a national advocacy group based in Landover.
Experts say behavioral therapy sounds easier than it is. Parents often "have an inappropriate expectation of what medications can do," observed Washington pediatrician Patricia Quinn, who has specialized in treating ADHD for more than 25 years. "Drugs don't improve self-esteem, time management or organizational skills. But the problem is that most parents don't have enough time or energy" for behavior therapy or are inconsistent about applying it. Sometimes, Quinn said, they make the regimen too complicated by imposing too many rules.
The trick, Quinn said, is to keep things simple, especially for younger children, which enables them to succeed, thereby reinforcing the desired behavior.
McLean child psychiatrist Thomas Kobylski compares ADHD to diabetes: Medications are necessary but not sufficient for both conditions. For optimal results, people with diabetes need to watch what they eat and to exercise, in addition to taking medication. Children with ADHD, he said, need medication as well as the skills that behavior therapy teaches to function well at home and at school.
There is an added benefit from combination treatment, said Kobylski, who is chairman of the Washington area chapter of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Studies have found that children treated with behavior therapy can take a lower dose of medication, Kobylski said.
Public relations executive Susannah Budington, who lives in Chevy Chase, began using behavior therapy several years ago, shortly after Allison, the oldest of her five children, was diagnosed with ADHD and started taking Concerta.
"She's such an enthusiastic, wonderful kid I would never want to medicate that away," said Budington. Concerta, she said, enables Allison to be less impulsive and more cooperative, but behavior therapy has helped the 12-year-old "operate as part of our family, to play soccer and to do things with her friends. It's extremely important."
One of the biggest problems, Budington said, has been getting Allison to do her homework without incessant reminders. One of the techniques Budington and her husband recently devised involves Allison's desire to get her ears pierced, something her parents have agreed that she can do when she turns 13. When Allison does her homework without prompting, she gets a chip she can use to move up the ear-piercing date by a week. Bad behavior means a week is added.
Trish White, a manager at CHAAD, said that the involvement of her son's school in his behavioral program has been critical to the progress he has made in the two years since a pediatrician told her he had ADHD. Once a child is diagnosed with the disorder, federal law requires that the school devise an individualized education plan that accommodates the disability. That plan often includes elements of behavioral treatment, but cooperation by teachers and school systems varies, experts say.
At his Anne Arundel County public school, White's 8-year-old son sits near the teacher to minimize distractions. When she senses his attention is wandering, she taps lightly on his desk to remind him to focus. Every day she sends home a simple, color-coded behavior chart telling his parents how his day went.
White said she uses daily behavior charts at home. When her son is helpful or gets along with his little sister, "he gets lots of hugs and kisses," she said.
"We continue to struggle," said White. Reading remains difficult for her son, she added, but he is better able to follow directions and seems more adept at making friends.
Quinn, who has seen concern about ADHD medications wax and wane during the years she has treated hundreds of children with the disorder, regards growing interest in behavior therapy as a positive development.
"Drugs," she said, "can only do so much." ·
Comments: boodmans@washpost.com. Join Washington pediatrician and ADHD specialist Patricia Quinn for a Live Online chat today at 11 a.m. about behavioral therapy.
|
What non-drug treatments work to combat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? Public relations executive Susannah Budington, who lives in Chevy Chase, began using behavior therapy several years ago, shortly after Allison, the oldest of her five children, was diagnosed with ADHD and...
| 24.351852 | 0.981481 | 29.351852 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101239.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101239.html
|
Vendor Recounts Foggy Bottom Beating
|
2006050419
|
The elderly vendor who was beaten to the ground outside her Foggy Bottom apartment building spoke publicly about the attack for the first time yesterday, testifying in D.C. Superior Court and attaching a voice to the silent, startling images of her ordeal.
Captured on surveillance video, the assault last spring on the woman, who was then 83, was replayed again and again on the local news, searing the unsettling spectacle into the minds of many people who otherwise knew nothing of the victim.
Vasiliki Fotopoulos, who came to the United States from Greece in 1966, has lived on 24th Street NW for the past 20 years and has become something of a fixture as a vendor near the Metro station in her neighborhood.
Wearing a flowered dress and a navy cardigan and leaning on a walker, Fotopoulos wheeled her way to the witness stand yesterday to tell her story of heading home after a full day and seeing a man lurking near a secluded side entrance to her building.
"I was scared," she recalled.
Her instincts were all too right.
Suddenly, she said yesterday, the man set upon her.
"He started boom, boom, boom on my head," she said in Greek as a court interpreter provided the English version. "And after that, I couldn't take it anymore."
James A. Dorsey, 47, who prosecutors say attacked Fotopoulos on May 3, 2005, is on trial before D.C. Superior Court Judge Herbert B. Dixon Jr., charged with armed robbery and other offenses in an attack so widely seen that the defense sought a change in venue.
Early on, it seemed that the case might not go to trial.
Arrested within days of the mugging, Dorsey implicated himself in a video-recorded interview with detectives. Dorsey, something of a drifter, has a criminal record dating to 1984 and has used several aliases in his dealings with the authorities over the years.
But since his interview with police, Dorsey has maintained that he is not guilty. His lawyer, Larry Kupers of the D.C. Public Defender Service, said last week in his opening statement that Dorsey was pressured by the police and that he is not, in fact, on the video.
|
The elderly vendor who was beaten to the ground outside her Foggy Bottom apartment building spoke publicly about the attack for the first time yesterday, testifying in D.C. Superior Court and attaching a voice to the silent, startling images of her ordeal.
| 9.533333 | 1 | 45 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101716.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101716.html
|
Seeking a Complete Game
|
2006050419
|
As happy as he was to see the Washington Wizards rebound from a sluggish start to win Game 4 Sunday night, Coach Eddie Jordan knows that his team must deliver a more complete performance tomorrow night if it hopes to take a 3-2 lead in their best-of-seven series with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
One key difference is that the game will be in Cleveland, in front of what is sure to be a raucous crowd at Quicken Loans Arena, where the Wizards looked disjointed during a 97-86 loss in Game 1 and where they barely held on for an 89-84 win in Game 2.
The Wizards almost certainly wouldn't be wise to spot the Cavaliers an 11-point halftime lead as they did Sunday night before Gilbert Arenas and Caron Butler shot Washington back into the game and led the way to a 106-96 victory.
"We have to play better to win Game 5," Jordan said. "We have to be more consistent. We can't rely on just a burst of two to four minutes to carry us. We just have to do things a little bit better. I like the game plan, but we have to run our offense better and play at a more consistent level."
If the Wizards need a reminder that they can't afford stretches of sloppiness, all they have to do is examine Game 3, when Cleveland erased a seemingly comfortable 14-point lead in the third quarter.
Though no players would say so, it was clear by the mood in the locker room after Sunday's win that the Wizards were still kicking themselves for not holding on and winning Game 3.
After all, the Wizards could be up 3-1 with a chance to end the series tomorrow night.
Instead, the Wizards need to win Game 5 to have a chance to finish the series at home on Friday. The Wizards have beaten the Cavaliers in three of four games at home this season and it was obvious that they fed off the energy and excitement of the crowd Sunday night.
With a loss, the Wizards would have to win at home Friday night and then return to Cleveland for Game 7 on Sunday.
And then there's the matter of NBA playoff history. When a series is tied 2-2, the Game 5 winner has gone on to win the series 107 of 128 times.
"We knew how important game Game 1 was, we knew how important Game 3 was and yet we still did not come out with that aggressiveness that we need to win," said forward Antawn Jamison, who scored 10 of his series-high 22 points during the first quarter Sunday night. "Guys have been there and done that. We know it's a case where we can ill afford to have that happen again."
The Wizards are relishing the role of party crasher in a series that was supposed to be all about LeBron James and his first playoff appearance. Everything went according to script in Game 1 as James posted a triple-double in an easy Cavaliers victory. But the Wizards have fought back and there have been stretches when they look like the superior team.
|
Despite winning Game 4, the Wizards still struggled to put together a complete game effort and they know if they hope to win Game 5 in Cleveland that they cannot afford any lapses.
| 16.944444 | 0.777778 | 1.444444 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601520.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601520.html
|
Free Range on Food
|
2006050419
|
A chat with the Food section staff is a chance for you to ask questions, offer suggestions and share information with other cooks and food lovers. It is a forum for discussion of food trends, ingredients, menus, gadgets and anything else food-related.
Each chat, we will focus on topics from the day's Food section. You can also read the transcripts of past chats. Do you have a question about a particular recipe or a food-related anecdote to share? The Food section staff goes Free Range on Food every Wednesday at 1 p.m. ET. Read about the staff of the Food section.
Candy: Good afternoon chatters! This lovely spring weather is perfect for strolling, maybe at the Capital City Market that Walter wrote about in today's food section. We also want to hear your favorite Fake-It tips for jazzing up prepared food (just like our recipes today from chef Hagedorn). The prize for the best tips: Two new cookbooks to get you ready for grilling season--one from Williams-Sonoma and one that's called "Championship BBQ Secrets for Real Smoked Food."
Candy: Whoops, almost forgot: We'll publish the names of the winners near the end of the chat. Email us your name and address to food@washpost.com so we can send you your loot.
Where can I find instant espresso powder? The only items I find are instant coffee like Folgers coffee/Nescafe or the International Foods coffee mixes. Is instant coffee the same thing? I am trying to make espresso brownies and cookies.
Also, is it necessary to refrigerate peanut butter? I mix creamy peanut butter with all natural peanut butter into a small container that I leave at work in my desk. Is this safe? Thank you.
Candy: Forget the Folger's, Washington. That stuff is barely coffee, let alone espresso, and won't lend enough of a coffee flavor to your brownies. What you want to look for in the coffee aisle is the little squat bottles of Medaglia d'Oro, which is instant espresso. They're usually on a top shelf.
Pittsburgh, Penn.: While I consider myself a decent cook & can whip up some good dishes for myself and my husband, I am terrified of cooking dinner for my mother-in-law. Would you please suggest the perfect meal - I'd be eternally grateful!
Marcia: The perfect meal, if you're that terrified, is one that you've made before and that you KNOW is going to come out right and taste good. Then relax and enjoy the meal. On second thought, stay away from any dish that your mother-in-law considers one of her own specialties!
Bonnie: Pitts, how about a little more info? Want a main dish of meat? Pasta? There are mavens here ready to spring into recipe-dispensing action.
20705: I tried a mango for the first time and loved it. I paid $3.00 for 2 mangos and was wondering if this is the going rate. I thought it was a little high, but like I said, I am new to the mango scene!
Candy: I, too, am a mango lover. and two for 3 bucks is what I've been paying. I've seen some of the smaller champagne mangoes for three for 3 or 4 dollars. If you want to find them cheaper. check out the Asian markets where they're sold in bulk boxes for a lot less than chain supermarkets. Asians often give mangoes as gifts, so they're often in crates or boxes. One note of caution: Beware of mango skin, which contains an irritating oil similar to poison ivy and can irritate your mouth or hands. Wash your hands after peeling, is my advice.
Annapolis, Md.: How long does an open can of chipotle in adobo last in the refrigerator? I only need 1 or 2 at a time...
Bonnie: Annap, de-can those chipotles before you refrigerate. Cans plus fridge equals tinny taste, oftentimes. Without knowing how much adobo was keeping company with your chipotles or how the can was covered, I'd say pitch what you've got and start over.
When I open a chipotle en adobo can, I put the extras in short plastic food storage freezer bags. Plunk the bags in a small bowl of warm water to thaw when you go back for more. I bet our chatters have their own methods. Chime in.
Feta Cheese Substitute?: Hi, I'm wondering if you can help me solve a problem. I'm pregnant and can't eat soft cheeses, including Feta, my FAVORITE. I thought maybe it was okay if I cooked it, but my doctor nixed that idea, too.
Any idea of a non-soft cheese that can mimic feta? My favorite spring/summer dish is a tomato basil tart that has tomatoes, basil, garlic and feta. It's heaven, and I'm already craving it.
Bonnie: Parmesan's certainly salty and has a lot of flavor. Sorry about the soft-cheese ban. It's only a matter of months.
Oakton, Va.: I loved the section today! Just one question about the Fake It story. In the soup recipe, could I substitute light coconut milk instead of regular to lower the fat content somewhat?
Bonnie: Thanks, and sure you can. But the soup may be thinner/have less body. You could cut back on the fish stock (start with 1 cup instead of 2, and build to get the consistency you want). Also, maybe use an extra teaspoon of curry paste. Let us know how it turns out.
Afraid of my Broiler: I'm hoping you can help me get past my perhaps irrational fear of my stove's broiler. I'm afraid to use it...in fact, I'm not even sure that what I think is a broiler is actually a broiler. Is it that little drawer on the bottom of the stove that pulls out? I'm supposed to cook meat on this? What's stopping the meat from bursting into flames because it's so close to the burner above it? So many recipes say I can use my stove's broiler, am I missing out needlessly?
Candy: Broiler-phobic: I sort of doubt your broiler in at the bottom of your stove, unless it's a really, really old stove. Broilers are the top heating coil in an electric oven. Same thing with a gas oven. Think of it as a big burner on the roof of your oven. Ordinarily, the broiler pan holding the food is put on the second to the top level of the oven and you leave the oven door partially open as you broil. It's not scary at all. In fact, you can actually watch what's happening to your food better. Just be sure you have long oven mitts. When the food looks brown enough, put the mitt on and pull out the rack halfway so you can securely get hold of the pan and remove it. See if you can find the owner's manual to your oven--it'll have lots of good info.
D.C. dieter: I really empathize with those overweight chefs. Did Mr Furtstenberg provide any of the tips he got from that diet book he used? Could you share?
Candy: Hi D.C. Glad you liked our chubby chefs story. In "Eat, Drink and Weigh Less" by Walter Willett and Mollie Katzen, there's a whole 21-day diet plan, but here are a few highlights from the book's tips: Don't skip breakfast. Eat nothing after dinner. Exercise or move (walking is fine) for at least 30 minutes a day. Eat only one white carb a day (meaning bread, rice, pasta, etc.) Allow yourself one small dessert every other day and eat it slowly. Have some protein at every meal. It you want to drink alcohol, have one serving per day (that means one glass of wine, one beer, a cocktail that is not made with sweetened ingredients). Hope this helps. From what the chefs said, probably the most important thing is to get some exercise. Even those that didn't change much about what they ate, lost pounds if they exercised or walked every day.
Kensington, Md.: I'm trying to locate an article that I read this year about a local(?) pastry chef who creates pastries in the form of little books/novels...Did I read about this chef in the Food Section or Source? I've been searching your site and the web and can't find it anywhere. Would like it for an upcoming book group party. thank you for your help!
Judy H.: Sorry, Kensington, We don't recall running such an article, and I checked with the Source editor, and she doesn't either. However, you can take a picture of almost anything give it to a bakery like Heidleberg, and they will create it.
Feta: Feta that is sold in US Groceries (like Athenos) is Pasteurized, therefore safe for pregnant women. (Been there)
Washington, D.C.: Hey there! Always read hoping I'll actually learn to cook, but this is my first time asking anything...
I'm making a cobbler tonight, following a recipe for blueberry I found that takes about 30 mins in the over. Can I throw in blackberries and raspberries and expect them to cook at same rate (i.e., not burn or do anything else scary?)
Thanks! You're helping me grow up!
Judy H.: Hi, Washington, thanks for chatting. I think the time difference in cooking blueberries, blackberries and raspberries would be negligible. Apples are a different story Certain kinds of apples can still be a little undercooked when blueberries are long since ready. The bad experiences I have had with undercooked cobbler have always come from not allowing the topping to cook thoroughly.
Athens, Geo.: Hey chatters & writers! Thanks for the chats, it is, without a doubt, the best part of my Wednesdays! I am invited to a potluck Friday night for a group of 10. Includes Vegetarians and Non-Vegetarians. I am a fairly good cook but I am coming up empty on what to bring. Any great recipes you would like to share? I can make appetizers, entrees or desserts. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Bonnie: Hey Athens. Here's an easy appetizer/spread that always makes people happy, and it's easy to do. Doubles easily. Cribbed from a Nigella Lawson cookbook:
Cut off the top of 1 whole head of garlic and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap it up in aluminum foil. Roast at 400 degrees for about an hour. When it's about done, parboil 1 lb. of spring peas (can use frozen) and drain. Toss the hot peas, 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into a food processor. Squeeze in the cloves of roasted garlic (discarding papery skins). Pulse to the consistency you like. Taste and add salt if necessary. Serve warm, cold or at room temp, with crostini for dipping.
Candy: For Pregnant and craving feta (and other soft cheese)--The FDA had warned pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems to stay away from soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk because of the risk of Listeria bacteria. But many soft cheeses today are now being made from pasteurized milk, says the FDA, including feta. Pregnant's best bet is to read the label carefully and see if the cheese has been made from pasteurized milk. If it has, she can safely enjoy it.
Kensington, Md.: I submitted an earlier question about an article referring to a chef who created little books out of pastry. Do you have ideas as to how I might find that article?
Bonnie: We've been looking, Kensington. Not ringing a bell so far.
Washington, D.C.: Need help with cutting up fennel. I love the way it tastes and have been using it a lot in salads. However I have no idea the best way to go about slicing it so I end up hacking into it and making a big mess. Please help!
Marcia: Hi, Washington -- Get rid of the tough core, then slice thinly.
Judy H.: You can slice either crosswise or lengthwise, making sure that the pieces are bite sized, not chunk-like.
Washington, D.C.: My favorite way to add a little "something" to store bought items is by adding fresh herbs. It always seems to bring whatever it is to life, and give it more flavor.
Arlington, Va.: Wanted to share a quick tip for a tasty (and very healthy) breakfast on the run since:
I've been making muffins (either banana or pumpkin) and instead of using the regular amount of flour and oil, I've been adding oatmeal (rolled, or steel cut if you can find it) and applesauce. Generally a half a cup of the oats and a 1 to 1 ratio for the applesauce. These keep in the freezer for a good long while and in the mornings you can throw them in the microwave, nuke them for 45 seconds, and you have a great breakfast on the go.
Candy: Thanks Arlington--are you using muffin mix and then subbing in those ingredients, or are you using a favorite recipe (that you might want to share)?
Instant Espresso Powder: I buy mine at Vace's in Cleveland Park.
Walter: And while you're there I hope you get a slice of Vace's great white pizza.
Capitol Hill: I bought a bunch of those purple, finger-shaped potatoes from wegman's over the weekend. can you suggest the best way to prepare them to accompany some baked chicken breasts? i was planning on a simple roast (with garlic and olive oil), but I'm open to suggestions!
Stephanie Witt Sedgwick: I am in love with fingerling potatoes. Yellow, red, purple, it doesn't matter. I like to scrub well and roast in the pan, sprinkled with salt, with a chicken or leg of lamb. Or, let them fly solo. Roll in oil with some salt and pepper. Roast them at 400 degrees. Fingerlings cook fast, start checking after 20 minutes.
Richmond, Va.: Re: Prepared food
Chicken salad using a rotisserie chicken. I like to mix in chopped mangoes, apples, grapes, walnuts and raisins with the chicken and dress it with some mayo mixed with curry powder and a little lemon juice. It only takes a few minutes if you get the fruit already prepped from the salad bar, just cut it up into smaller pieces. Very nice with a fresh supermarket baguette which they helpfully locate next to the chickens most of the time.
For the soft-cheese fan who's expecting - check with your doctor but the soft cheese ban is to prevent you from eating cheese made from unpasteurized milk. Most supermarket feta is made from pasteurized milk.
Candy: Great idea, Richmond--especially using the fruit from the salad bar to speed things up.
Silver Spring, Md.: Another item for a potluck - indulgent and everyone loves it:
Home version of Chinese sesame noodles. Use Chinese wheat noodles or thin spaghetti. Boil and cool off the noodles, then toss with this sauce:
1/2 cup tahini or peanut butter (your choice, good both ways)
1 TBS vinegar (pref rice wine vinegar)
2 TBS milk (the secret ingredient)
chopped ginger if you like it
a bit of ground black pepper
Whip all that together, add a bit of water to thin it out if you like. Mix with the cold noodles and sit back for the compliments. Small servings are okay as this is rich stuff.
Bonnie: Tahini fans here. Sounds good.
Arlington, Va.: Peppering up prepared food, chicken tikka masala tomato soup:
Take prepared chicken breast strips and saute it with some salt, pepper, garam masala, red chilli pepper, and crush garlic and ginger, and my home made curry mix.
add the soup. Bring it to a simmer, and a little cream.
Bonnie: Garam masala! You've uttered the phrase that makes the Groucho Marx duck come down. Our editorial assistant Leigh Lambert is doing a great On the Fridge feature on store-bought garam masala mixtures next week. Remember to c'mon back. Thanks for your recipe.
Washington, D.C.: I'm a Trader Joe's lover and always intrigued by their frozen fish. However, it makes me a little nervous. Not tending to be one of those "prepared" people that remembers to put things in the fridge to defrost in the morning, can I microwave defrost fish? What's the best way to cook frozen salmon or other common ones (grill is not an option)?
Stephanie Witt Sedgwick: Grab those salmon steaks D.C. Frozen fish is often "fresher" than the same fish in the case. It's flash frozen on the boat or dockside right after being caught.
Even better news: I wouldn't bother to defrost ahead of time. Just fill your sink with cold water, slip the fish in and give it 30 minutes. Fish flesh is soft and defrost very quickly.
Washington, D.C.: My favorite "Fake It" recipes? Gotta be brownie mixes. I add various flavors. For instance, cinnamon really helps increase the intensity of chocolate. Another option, I also have a hazelnut extract I got a few years back when one of the fancy kitchen places was going out of business & so I'll add some of that. It adds a subtlety of flavor that people notice, but can't quite put their finger on.
Other options I've used include pure orange, peppermint, or almond extracts(altho I find I like the hazelnut better than almond).
With all of these, I'll often add in some semi-sweet chocolate chips & then bake in a smaller pan to produce thicker brownies. If you like, slightly underbake the brownies to produce heavier, fudgy brownies or go for more cake-like brownies depending on your preferences....it really kicks it up a notch from your run-of-the-mill brownie from a brownie mix and they're good enough to serve/bring to events where a brownie mix brownie just won't cut it.
Candy: And which brownie mix is your fave? I vote for the Ghiradelli mixes--they almost don't need tinkering.
Washington, D.C.: I have an old tiny apartment size oven with the broiler on the bottom that I'm afraid to use - the distance can't be adjusted and I can't see the food as it is being broiled.
Candy: Ok, chatters, should D.C. just forget about the tiny, scary, blind broiler?
Yellow Chicken: Last week a reader asked what turns the chicken yellow at kabob places. Your staff suggested turmerick, however I believe it's saffron. Saffron has a much more subtle flavor than turmerick and is frequently used in Persian food. Dissolve a small amount in a little hot water and add to the dish to get the lovely yellow color.
Judy H.: You could be right about saffron, but saffron a lot more expensive than turmeric.
Bonnie: Hey Kensington! Edible books might have been mentioned either in a recent issue of Bon Apetit or Gourmet. There's annual edible book festival that was held April 1. if you go to www.books2eat.com/books2eat2006.html, at least you'll be entertained by the visual entries.
Washington, D.C.: I made the Palm Beach Brownies, and they were good but I had a few issues. I baked them for 35 minutes, and while the top was firm it was not crusty. I was going to bake them for another 5 minutes, but then because the instructions were explicit about not overbaking them, I pulled them out after another minute or so. And they were almost burnt on the bottom - I have an oven thermometer and I thought I did pretty good at keeping it around 425 (I have an old oven with a knob). Maybe next time move them from the bottom third of the oven to the middle??
Candy: I'm surprised at the burning on the bottom--I think you may be right about moving the pan and maybe turning down the heat a notch, too.
refrigerating items: Having lived overseas (in the U.K.) and having traveled extensively (including third world countries), I have come to the conclusion that we are WAYYYYYYY to worried about germs and spoiling food in the U.S. Take basic precautions (don't leave fresh meat out longer than necessary, for instance, and be good about washing hands and implements), but don't go nuts. I've kept peanut butter in the cupboard all my life - we tend to live in climate controlled environments that allow us this luxury. Stuff labeled "refrigerate after opening" these days often WASN'T labeled that way when I was kid (ketchup and mustard come to mind), and I believe the labeling is a result of our litigation crazy world rather than a food safety issue.
Judy H.: Thanks, refrigerating. I think some people would have a heart attack walking into a European market where the eggs are on the opposite side of the store from the refrigerating equipment!
Washington, D.C.: Favorite fake/semi-healthy recipe:
Two boxes of Tabachnik brand frozen vegetable soup, thawed (it may be in the Kosher section)
1 can of broth (approx)
1 package of turkey kielbasa
Brown the kielbasa, add the veggie soup and as much of the broth as you need to get it to a consistency that you want. Heat, taste for seasoning.
The frozen soup is pretty thick, thus the additional broth. And it is low in salt so it works well with the salty kielbasa.
Bonnie: Sounds pretty easy, DC. And some Tabatchnik frozen soups have healthy omega-3s added.
Alexandria, Va.: Just wanted to thank you for the lo mein recipe from last week. Made it twice already! Used whole-wheat spaghetti and vegetable broth; added cubes of firm tofu that I splashed with soy sauce. Great way to get more fiber and vegetables in our diet, and easy to put together after a long day at work.
Stephanie Witt Sedgwick: Thanks, I've always loved that recipe. I did it for a Super Bowl article five or six years ago. I love recipes where it easy to make substitutions and additions. I going to make it myself again and add the tofu. My kids are crazy for tofu.
Washington, D.C.: Broiler comment- I too have a broiler on the bottom and the stove is not that old, at most two or three years old as the previous owner purchased it before I bought my home. I actually thought broilers were always on the bottom until I saw Rachael Ray cooking on her show and the broiler was on the top (but she also uses an old fashioned stove).
Candy: Huh. Guess Bonnie and I were wrong when we thought that kind of broiler had been phased out. What the heck were they thinking, making people bend over to broil like that?
Re: Feta: If the poster can't eat feta, there are some hard Greek cheeses like Kefalotiri that are salty and may be an okay substitute. They don't have the creaminess of feta, though. Mediterranean shops carry this and other kinds.
Candy: Thanks--we have lots of feta fans today!
Boston, Mass.: I love how many things can be done with those prepared squash soups -- I mix them with prepared veggie soup stock when I make squash risottos. Serve with a salad based out of one of those prepackaged mixes, with fruit, nuts, and a homemade vinaigrette, and it's the perfect gourmet ready-made meal.
Jazzing the box cake: Not mine -- my mom's originally. Take a yellow box cake mix, add 1/2 c. sour cream and a bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the other stuff required on the package and bake it up in a bundt pan. Shockingly well received, even by foodies.
Judy H.: Dear jazzing, so many good tips, so little time. . . .
Arlington, Va.: My favorite way to pepper up sauces is to add heat and creaminess. I do this by adding ricotta to marinara sauce and red chilli pepper. I also like adding leftover cooked chicken and letting the spices of that incorporate into the sauce.
Candy: Heat and creaminess--I like it!
Fake it: Mango Salsa: Okay I know its not hard but I had to make it last weekend for a family lunch and didn't feel like a lot of chopping. So, I cut up a mango, mixed it with a container of fresh salsa (I get it in the produce section at Giant), squeezed a lime over the whole thing and passed it off as my own. It went fast!
Candy: A Great Fake! Thanks.
Faking it: My favorite summer time quick meal is grabbing fresh veggies from the local farmer's market on the way home and either grilling or roasting them. I put them over either packaged couscous (mushroom or parmesan are my flavor picks) or couscous with a little Newman's Own pasta sauce. Delicious!
Judy H.: Thank you faking. Packaged couscous is a godsend for those of us who come home at 8 o'clock to a starving family.
Falls Church, Va.: What are Chinese long beans and can I substitute regular green beans?
Walter: Also known as yard-long beans, these legumes are related to the black-eyed pea. The flavor is similar to but not as sweet as a green bean with a hint of bean in the background. Sure, you can substitute one for the other.
Springfield, Va.: Probably not worthy of the cookbook...but...here's my offer...
I make chicken parmesan..quick, easy, filling....by using the frozen chicken patties (Italian flavored), cook them up according to package directions...empty one can of favorite spaghetti sauce in a lasagne pan and one large can of pureed tomatoes...add fresh basil, a little dry beef broth granules (makes it taste cooked all day long) and put cooked chicken patties in the sauce...warm in oven and serve over spaghetti noodles, sprinkled with parmesan cheese...
a TOTAL cheat, but you can make it taste like cooked all day by adding the beef broth granules....
Judy H.: Dear Springfield, sounds like a keeper.
Reston, Va.: What does it mean when a recipe says to put "crumpled parchment" on something?
Judy H.: Dear Reston, tell us more. I have never seen this. Crumpled parchment?
Washington, D.C.: Jazzing up Prepared Food:
I'll buy frozen 4-cheese pizzas (Freschetta/DiGiorno) and add my own toppings. I'll chop up fresh veggies, pile them on the frozen pizza and bake as directed or until the cheese has melted and crust is brown. My favorite topping is fresh asparagus and basil.
Candy: Jazzing up pizza--always a good emergency move, although with asparagus I think I'd add it toward the end of the cooking time for a frozen pizza.
Candy: Winner time! Our two top tipsters today were the reader with the quick mango salsa idea, and the chatter who sent in the idea for chicken tikka soup. And, just cuz it's a beautiful day and I'm in an expansive mood, the chatter who had the idea of using rotisserie chicken and salad bar fruit for an entree-salad gets a new cookbook on salads by a London chef. Send us your name and address to food@washpost.com
FOR NEXT WEEK: We have fab recipes from local chefs for soft shell crabs, plus the hottest new cooking--it's coming from Peru. Walter Nicholls explains how it's more than just that Peruvian rotisserie chicken we all love.
Seattle, Wash.: Sorry to sound a serious note in all the jolly food chatter: How does the growing volume of books and articles exposing the horrors of suffering animals in factory farms and slaughterhouses affect your thoughts on meat consumption?
Stephanie Witt Sedgwick: If you're concern, demand better treatment. Support small growers. Consumers can change things. Need proof? Look how far food labeling has come because of consumer demand. Trans fats are slowly being eliminated from processed foods, once again because of consumer demand. Organic produce is everywhere. Next up: high fructose corn syrup. The public can make things change.
New York, N.Y.: There is a restaurant here that makes an amazing spinach noodle dish. It's like a noodle place/asian place, and the spinach noodles are combined with red peppers, bean sprouts, and a soy-lime sauce. Do you have any recipes for soy-lime sauce? I want to recreate the dish - it's like a really light kind of sweet/savory/tart flavor, like a vinaigrette - nothing heavy (I saw one recipe that called for butter - I'm pretty sure butter is not used in this dish, though). Thanks! I'm dying to recreate at home!
Judy H.: Dear New York, Here's a recipe we ran last year for a soy-lime sauce to use over vegetables. Hope you like it:
1/4 cup tamari* (may substitute soysauce)
1 scant tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 to 2 tablespoons water
11/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Washington, D.C.: I'm in my mid-40s and have bought my first fresh artichokes to cook. Would like a dipping sauce that is no-fat or very low fat (the usual sauces are butter or mayo) and any tips on prep would be great, too.
Bonnie: Send us an e-mail to food@washpost.com and we'll send you some prep tips from past Food sections.
Arlington, Va.: For the muffins I've been using this recipe for Banana bread which I tweaked and just put into muffin tins (it makes around 18 muffins):
# 1 cup packed brown sugar
# 7 tablespoons apple sauce (no sugar added)
# 2 large egg whites
# 1 1/3 cups mashed ripe banana (about 2 large)
# 1 cup rolled/steel cut oats
# 1/2 cup fat-free milk
# 2 cups all-purpose flour
# 1 tablespoon baking powder
# 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
# 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Lately I've also added a few scoops of protein powder (vanilla) for some extra protein. You don't even notice it.
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine first 4 ingredients in a large bowl; mix well by hand with a wooden spoon or large wisk. Combine banana, oats, and milk; add to sugar mixture, beating well. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; stir with a whisk. Add to sugar mixture; beat just until moist. Spoon batter into muffin tins.
3. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan on a wire rack; remove from pan. Cool completely on wire rack.
For the instant espresso seeker: Whole Foods on P Street carries it (actually on a low shelf, under the bulk coffee bins). It's great in chocolate baked goods and believe it or not, chili!
Judy H.: I have found it at Giant, Safeway and Rodmans among other places. It seems to be becoming a staple.
Instant Espresso: If it's not too late. Rodman's has it. I bought some there a few weeks ago.
Judy H.: I think it is still there.
Annandale, Va.: I don't know if this would qualify as "jazzing up prepared food," but I just love this "homemade" soup recipe - which uses nothing but convenience foods and requires almost no work at all.
Take two one-pound bags of frozen cauliflower/broccoli/carrots and one bag of frozen chopped onions, and throw them into a soup pot along with three cans of chicken broth and one can of tomatoes with green chilis.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 50 minutes. When vegetables are soft, remove from heat and add one package of cream cheese (full or 1/3 less fat), cubed.
Now comes the only work involved - using an immersion blender, puree to taste.
That's it. No chopping, peeling - nothing but opening cans and bags. I can't remember where I got this recipe, but I have made it dozens of times, and eat it either hot or cold, depending on the weather.
Judy H.: It definitely qualifies. Thanks.
I'm a Great Faker: Greetings Food Gurus & thanks for these chats!
My trick for using store-bought ingredients and making them look great is all in the presentation: for a cocktail party, hollow out a red cabbage and put your prepared dip/spread inside, fan out the outer leaves on the platter, and put your other vegetables or crackers on them. Or, use a pretty glass bowl and put a spread or dip inside, then separate the leaves of a Belgian endive and poke them in the dip until it looks like a flower, putting a thin slice of lemon in the center.
For cooked items, I put prepared foods on the nicest platters (I have several fake argenteil ones from Mexico), and garnish with thin slices of different colored peppers (I do this with kebabs from Moby Dick).
I've also found that if I make one thing that looks impressive, even if it's ridiculously easy (like brie en croute), everyone assumes I've gone to tremendous trouble.
I must say that this system seems to work for me--we give several set parties each year and if we talk about skipping one, our friends protest!
Bonnie: Great addition to the chat -- presentation counts for much.
Broiling: No. Don't forget the old, tiny oven broiler. I have one myself and LOVE roasting red peppers. Since I am charring those peppers I'm not really worried about burning, but I have never had them burst into flames. After experimenting I know how long the broiler takes to get them nice and charred, but the first couple of times I would keep checking back every five minutes.
Candy: A brave broiler weighs in....
Maryland: A question for Walter--is there any other kind of wholesale/market-type places that are not downtown?
Walter: There's the Jessup wholesale fish market near BWI airport.
Candy: Thanks for all the good tips and questions. Have a great day. And see you all back here next Wednesday.
Brownie mix again: I agree with you that the Ghiradelli mixes are the best. But, in a pinch, I'll use one of the DARK fudge chocolate brownie mixes from Betty Crocker (I think it's Betty Crocker, anyway)
Candy: That would need to be a really bad pinch. Making brownies from scratch--one of those one-bowl recipes--is really fast.
Baltimore, Md.: I want to make a flourless chocolate cake for a friend who can't have gluten. Do you have a fail-proof recipe? I'm not the greatest baker, but she is the greatest friend.
Judy H.: Dear Baltimore, My favorite flourless chocolate cakes are the classic from the original Julia Child, but it does use 2/3rds of a cup of sifted cake flour, and one that is simpler from a cookbook called "Fabulous and Flourless" by Mary Mauksch. I can't find either of them at the moment other than on paper. If you will send me your address, I will copy them and send them out. The Fabulous and Flourless recipes uses ground nuts.
Frederick, Md.: I pep up frozen prepared dinners by adding more veggies or if the dinner is a Italian-type chicken dinners, I scrape the "cheese stuff" off the chicken and add fresh moz or prov. One slice of prov will do the trick. For canned chicken noodle soup if add chopped-up cooked chicken to the soup. I also add cooked broccoli and/or cauliflower to canned tomato soup.
Judy H.: Lots of suggestions. Thanks.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
The experts of the Food Section answer questions, share secrets and discuss all things food-related.
| 382.421053 | 0.894737 | 2.263158 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801754.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801754.html
|
Swimsuit Tips
|
2006050419
|
Finding a new swimsuit isn't easy, but "Sunday Source" deputy editor and former Vogue fashion writer Suzanne D'Amato has tips to help you shop smart and hit the beach with confidence and style.
Read and Take a Look: Suit Yourself
She was online Wednesday, May 3, at 1 p.m. ET to answer your questions and offer advice.
Hi, my problem is I have a big butt, and I'm having a hard time finding a cute little bikini that provides full coverage in that area. It's frustrating because I feel like I can't totally relax at the pool. Even with bottoms that provide some coverage I'm constantly trying to pull down the back so it won't ride up and expose too much. Darnit. Do you have any recommendations?
Suzanne D'Amato: I'd suggest a boy-short style, which is comfortable and stays where you want it -- perfect for swimming. Also, many manufacturers make boy-short suits that sit low on the hip and look quite stylish -- you won't feel like you're wearing a frumpy "big bottomed" suit.
Washington, D.C.: A bikini top is essentially the same as a bra. So, why do bikini tops generally come in S/M/L and not 34B?
Suzanne D'Amato: I can only assume that some swimsuit designers think their fabrics are stretchy enough to accomodate any number of sizes. For many shoppers, the S/M/L spectrum is good enough, but for women who want a really precise fit, it can be frustrating.
Happily, a number of companies do sell suit tops by bra size -- Malia Mills is one of my favorites for this.
I am a redhead with very fair skin, and always vaguely dread swimsuit season due to my paleness. That said, I love the beach and swimming and wouldn't pass that up for anything, so, what is your best recommendation for swimsuit colors that flatter those of us who do NOT have a future as a Hawaiian Tropic model?
Suzanne D'Amato: There's nothing wrong with being pale -- I think you'd look great in an olive green, burgundy, navy or chocolate brown suit. Just don't forget the SPF 30!
What style suggestions can you offer for those who are small chested but don't want to go the padded bra route?
Suzanne D'Amato: Despite what you may have seen on "Baywatch," string bikini styles are actually tailor-made for smaller women, for a very simple reason: When a well-endowed woman wears a tiny top with no support, it ain't pretty.
What about men's swim suits? Any advice? My husband insists on wearing Speedos and believe me, honey, it isn't flattering. He doesn't fill it out and the hang-over (you know what I mean) is, well, mean.
Suzanne D'Amato: If your husband "insists" on Speedos, you may have a tough time getting him to wear anything else! Still, if you want to try, I'd suggest a square-cut bottom. It's sort of like a brief, but the leg holes are cut straight across -- still pretty revealing, but a decent halfway point between a Speedo and a board short.
Washington, D.C.: I have a small chest, good legs but an ample bum and flabby mid- section. What do you recommend? I currently have a tankini which I like because its comfortable but should I be doing something different to highlight/play down parts?
Suzanne D'Amato: If you like the comfort of your tankini, stick with that style. Maybe look for a top that has a halter cut (to play up shoulders) and some ruching or pleating around the bust, to give you a bit more shape there.
Do you encourage people to always stick with current style trends or go with whatever style is most figure-flattering and expressive, current or retro? Incidentally, G Street Fabrics offers classes on swimsuit making, usually in May and June.
Suzanne D'Amato: I think people should wear what they feel best in -- which can mean different things for different folks. For some, wearing the latest trend is what makes them happy, so they'll probably want a more "current" style of suit. For others, expressing their style, independent of what's trendy, is most important. (As it happens, I fall in this latter camp.)
Either way, it's important to be realistic about what suits you: I think the biggest mistake is to try to copy what you see on some starlet in the pages of US Weekly, without thinking about your frame and your lifestyle.
Regarding G Street, thanks for the tip!
Suzanne,I want to be a little risque (or maybe just fit in -- we'll see!) on an upcoming trip to South Beach. Are there any thong bikinis you can recommend?
Suzanne D'Amato: Um, no. I think this style is tired -- these days, it's a lot more chic to leave something to the imagination.
I have a strange question. Where have all of the slips gone? I am 26 so I didn't grow up wearing slips but now I have a dress that needs one and I can't seem to find one. Even places like Lord and Taylor look at me strangely when I ask for one. Victoria's Secret hasn't helped. Any ideas?
Suzanne D'Amato: Funny that you should ask -- I've noticed the same thing! Vintage shops are a good place to start. I've seen some really cute slips at Millennium Decorative Arts on U Street -- it's a furniture store by design, but they have a small (and very cool) selection of vintage clothing for men and women. You might also try a Web site like Barenecessities.com. Good luck!
I am tall (5'10") and I wear a size 10 in a suit but have broad shoulders. I have trouble minimizing that area or at least not making it more pronounced. Any suggestions?
Suzanne D'Amato: Broad shoulders are nothing to be ashamed of, but if you want to minimize yours, look for a top with moderately wide-set straps and a curved, rather than square, neckline.
Avoid halter or T-back styles.
Hi Suzanne. I need a beach cover-up for my honeymoon in Tahiti. Something to go from day to night easily. Any tips on where to find one that I can try on in person (rather than visiting a Web site)?
Suzanne D'Amato: Look for a gauzy linen tunic at a place like Anthropologie or Free People. It might feel a little hippie-dippy for city wear, but it's perfect for the beach. And if you find one that's about knee-length, you can easily wear it to dinner -- just dress it up with metallic sandals and a little jewelry.
I finally lost 30 pounds of baby weight and would like to celebrate with my first new swimsuit in EIGHT years. Don't have tons to spend, still have more weight to lose ... here are my specs - I'd love as many suggestions as you can toss my way:5'4", 155 lbs., hefty thighs, ample chest (38 DD, I think, and always wear minimizer bras). Would like something I can swim laps in but want to try to feel sexy in it too.Thanks! p.s. There's something wrong with the "Suit Yourself" chart - whenever I click on a suit/body shape, it sends me to the discussion.
Suzanne D'Amato: One of my favorite looks is the retro one-piece (as seen on the "Desperate Housewives" cover of Vanity Fair last year). It's very '50s glamour girl: low-cut legs, pleating through the body and a sweetheart neckline -- think Marilyn Monroe, Betty Grable and the like. It'll look great with your curves, and it's covered up enough that you can swim without worrying about having a wardrobe malfunction.
Regarding your P.S.: the problem seems to have been solved, but thanks for letting us know!
I am a fairly large breasted young woman (34 DD) and have a really hard time finding a suit that gives me the support of a bra with out the coverage of a T-shirt. Do you have any suggestions? I would prefer a tankini, but a bikini is ok too if the bottoms are not super small.
Suzanne D'Amato: This is a case in which Web sites often beat brick-and-mortar stores -- the selection of sizes they can keep on hand is virtually unbeatable. In doing research for this story, I was really impressed by Figleaves.com. They have a great selection of stylish suits for larger-busted women, plus they allow you to shop by bra size -- and offer free return shipping, too.
Also, a reader emailed me recently to recommend Sylene in Chevy Chase as a good resource for larger-busted women. I haven't been there personally, but if you check it out, let me know!
What about you, Suzanne? What do you wear?
Suzanne D'Amato: A black bikini by Eres -- I bought it in Paris seven years ago and have worn it ever since! The company is French -- their suits are quite pricey, but the styles are classic and the quality, just unbelievable.
Non swimsuit question: I'm a stay-home mom, 38, with a two-year-old. I'm having trouble finding the right balance shifting from the work to home wardrobe. I don't want to be yoga pants-and-T-shirt mom, but not fancy dry-clean mom either. I favor preppy, would like to think I am stylishly off-beat a little, and want an upgrade from my Gap/Old Navy that will do until I lose the baby weight. Where do I start?
Suzanne D'Amato: Start with some new accessories -- with the right extras, jeans and a T-shirt can look like the height of fashion. Since you said you're preppy, maybe some Jack Rogers sandals, a Longchamp bag, or a ribbon belt? If you want something with a bit more attitude, run to Target and see if there's still any of the collection Luella Bartley did for them. She's a British designer who's got that preppy-with-a-twist look down to a science.
Venus Swimwear (on the Web) makes nice ones that show just enough.
Suzanne D'Amato: To each their own! Thanks for the tip.
What's in fashion for us males who are no longer at our peak physical condition (think a few too many donuts)?
Suzanne D'Amato: Board shorts look good on just about everyone -- the surfer-inspired prints tend to skew a little young, but other than that they're almost universally wearable.
How come Vogue never featured plus-sized models? My daughters have to be thin due to your magazine and Cosmo.
Suzanne D'Amato: I can't speak for Cosmo, but Vogue does try to address the fashion concerns of plus-size women in its annual Shape Issue, which I believe comes out in April. That said, is there a general bias against fat in the fashion industry? No doubt about it -- it's changing, slowly, but it's a problem.
Suzanne D'Amato: Thanks for all of your great questions! If you have more, email me at styleq@washpost.com.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Sunday Source Deputy Editor Suzanne D'Amato offers tips on finding a new swimsuit for summer.
| 144.25 | 0.9375 | 2.1875 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801098.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801098.html
|
Dirda on Books
|
2006050419
|
Prize-winning columnist Michael Dirda takes your questions and comments concerning literature, books and the joys of reading.
Each week Dirda's name appears -- in unmistakably big letters -- on page 15 of The Post's Book World section. If he's not reviewing a hefty literary biography or an ambitious new novel, he's likely to be turning out one of his idiosyncratic essays or rediscovering some minor Victorian classic. Although he earned a Ph.D. in comparative literature from Cornell, Dirda has somehow managed to retain a myopic 12-year-old's passion for reading. Heparticularly enjoys comic novels, intellectual history, locked-room mysteries, innovative fiction of all sorts.
These days, Dirda says he still spends inordinate amounts of time mourning his lost youth, listening to music (Glenn Gould, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, The Tallis Scholars), and daydreaming ("my only real hobby"). He claims that the happiest hours of his week are spent sitting in front of a computer, working. His most recent books include "Readings: Essays and Literary Entertainments" (Indiana hardcover, 2000; Norton paperback, 2003) and his self-portrait of the reader as a young man, "An Open Book: Coming of Age in the Heartland" (Norton, 2003). In the fall of 2004 Norton will bring out a new collection of his essays and reviews. He is currently working on several other book projects, all shrouded in themost complete secrecy.
Dirda joined The Post in 1978, having grown up in the working-class steel town of Lorain, Ohio and graduated with highest honors in English from Oberlin College. His favorite writers are Stendhal, Chekhov, Jane Austen, Montaigne, Evelyn Waugh, T.S. Eliot, Nabokov, John Dickson Carr, Joseph Mitchell, P.G. Wodehouse and Jack Vance. He thinks the greatest novel of all time is either Murasaki Shikubu's "The Tale of Genji" or Proust's "A la recherche du temps perdu." In a just world he would own Watteau's painting "The Embarkation for Cythera." He is a member of the Baker Street Irregulars, The Ghost Story Society, and The Wodehouse Society. He enjoys teaching and was once a visiting professor in the Honors College at the University of Central Florida, which he misses to this day.
Michael Dirda: Welcome to Dirda on Books! A busier morning and early afternoon than usual. Book by Book came out yesterday, so I spoke about it with Susan Page on The Diane Rehm Show, then I rushed home and discovered what I thought for a moment was an attempt to break into my house, but have now decided that the broken lock fell apart through metal fatigue, and then I was interviewd for a few minutes about Mozart for the Book World segment of the new Post radio station. And now I'm here, munching an apple.
It continues to be sunny, warm, and delightful here in DC. I keep telling myself to enjoy these fine days before the debilitating heat of summer sets in, which it will doubtless do any time now. But for the moment, let's sit back and discuss books for the next hour. On with the show!
Washington, DC: Dear Mr. Dirda,
I caught you on the Diane Rehm Show this morning and you mentioned a sci-fi author by the name of Philip Pillman (sp?), but so far I have not succeeded in finding his books. Would you elaborate on his writing and the book(s) you recommended? Thanks.
Michael Dirda: Philip Pullman--he's a children's author, though His Dark Materials--a trilogy consisting of The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass--is science fictional. It also deals with religion and belief that some readers have found uncomfortable. That said, the first volume in particular is wonderfully exciting and the wholse series probably the best YA children's books of the past 10 or 15 years. Do try The Golden Compass. I believe the trilogy is now being made into a movie; it's already been a stage play in London.
Lenexa, Kan.: Mr. Dirda: Halfway through my Karen Joy Fowler-Jane Austen project (also re-viewing films of the novels and rereading Carol Shields' Penguin Lives-biography), I have a question (thanks much) for you:
Austen once anticipated a proposal from a well-read stranger who had come to town--who instead disappeared overnight like Marianne's Willoughby. Carol Shields writes: "Elizabeth Bennet, a creation of Jane Austen's pen, achieved what Austen must have craved in her own life..." Most people--even those happily married--have unresolved romantic ideals. Have you ever been tempted to write a novel out of vicarious longings? (Even the great critic "Bunny" wrote one novel.) I'm one of the Dirda readers out there who would enjoy a Dirda novel of passion. Any plans?
Michael Dirda: Hmmmm. I've written, in my head, the opening paragraph of such a book, but don't know if I would ever go further than that. People would assume what I wrote was autobiographical.
Would you share your views on Ian McEwan? He's got a nice literary style and an ability to create complex real characters, but such grim things always happen to them. Wouldn't his books be improved if he didn't impose such violent plots on his carefully crafted, rich, and interesting situations?
Michael Dirda: He's a writer who likes to push things a bit far, starting with his youthful The Cement Garden and the collection In Between the Sheets. I doubt he's likely to change. But you might try Amsterdam, which is quite a funny novel of gallows humor and satire. You can see the end coming, but its gruesomeness doesn't hurt very much at all. It's rather like reading Evelyn Waugh, say Black Mischief, in which the hero ends up eating his girlfriend at a cannibal feast.
New York, NY: Help! I am looking for some good books to read and have been reading lots of duds instead. I want something in the vein of a combo of John Irving/Salman Rushdie/Milan Kundera/with a bit of romance (love story romance, not romance novel romance). Any recommendations?? Thank you!
Michael Dirda: Do you know Robertson Davies' novels? Davies is Irving's hero. Start with Fifth Business and then go on to either the rest of that loose trilogy, or to his other masterpiece What's Bred in the Bone. The Penguin of volume 2 of the so-called Deptford trilogy, The Manticore, has an introduction by me. His books are full of ideas, melodrama, and rather intellectualized romance.
Silver Spring, Md: Sorry, I forgot to post this during last week's discussion--hope you get to it this week! recently you mentioned you were about to pick up joe keenan's "my lucky star." If you did get around to reading it, what did you think? I came across it by happenstance--never read anything else by him--and was underwhelmed. Would you recommend any of his other books? Thanks--I love your chats!
Michael Dirda: I"ve bought it, but haven't read it yet. That book and the previous two possess a very Wodehouse like character, which is why I like them. But even the Master--as Evelyn Waugh called Wodehouse--isn't to every taste. You have to like wordplay and campy humor to enjoy Keenan.
Tuned in to the Diane Rehm show too late to call today; however, i did email at the last minute and feel moved to repeat my comment about a book that is either revered and reviled, but not treated with indifference by any who have read it.Are you familiar with, or have you read, the Urantia Book, and if so, would you agree with the thought that it would be good for anyone to consider reading at least part four before they go to their grave so they can get the most sublime of spiritual lifts?Thank you, Richard
Michael Dirda: I've never read this book--though Urantia sounds familiar--is it some kind of cult? A tongue-in-cheek cult? It does sound really familiar.
Pentagon City, Va: I recently came across a copy of Sabbath's Theatre by Phillip Roth which was given to me several years ago. I was thinking it might be time for me to read this, but as I've never read any of Roth's works before I was wondering if this was a good starting point or are there other books of his I should read before starting this? Any insights or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Michael Dirda: You might try the early Roth, which is also very good and perhaps even more congenial, if that's the word I want. Try the novella Goodbye, Columbus, the comic Portnoy's Complaint, or the moving short novel, The Ghost Writer. It does seem as if Philip Roth has reblossomed in his old age, after a rather uneven middle period. Perhaps, like Yeats, he's gone through some kind of rejuvenation operation involving monkey or goat glands.
Anonymous: Silver Spring: Several months ago you mentioned that you interviewed Nelson Algren toward the end of his life. I think you said he was living in a rooming house. Would you be good enough to tell us a little of his circumstances (he couldn't have been impoverished, could he?) and your impressions of him on that occasion. Thanks.
Michael Dirda: I didn't interview him; I talked to him on the phone. He was living in a boarding house of some sort in New Jersy and working on his book about Hurricane CArter. I can remember his gruff voice, a sense of bitterness at the way he was ending his life and career, and his passion for justice for the wrongs he felt had been done to Carter.
The problem with the publishing world is . . . .: Mr. Dirda, what are your thoughts re this whole Kaavya Viswanathan debacle? Too much too soon? Will this case change anything in publishing? Will we see more original work or just business as usual? Same formulaic plots and characters?
Michael Dirda: Seems to me that the fiasco--which was far greater than I realized when I commented on it last week--has more to do with our society in general than just with publishing. SEe Ruth Marcus's op-ed piece of yesterday. The push to get her into Harvard at any cost, the fabricating of the book by what seems to be several hands, the whole shoddiness is pretty disgusting. Personally, I blame the parents, not something I usually do.
AS for the publishing angle: Publishers will always need fresh material to market. It's a business, after all, and the "edgy, chick-lit, older YA" market is one that is ripe for development.
Harlingen, Tex: Two questions, please.
1. What would you recommend as an adult ghost story -- not horror story -- just a good old-fashioned ghost story?
2. In my sixth decade, I have found myself drifting to what is referred to as young adult (I think of it as early teens) literature. Richard Peck, etc. Not to the exclusion of other reading, but in a stronger way that since I was actually in my early teens. Am I regressing, or have you heard of this phenomena before?
Michael Dirda: I'd pick up a good anthology of ghost stories, of which there are many, both new and used. Here are four to sample:
Sheridan Le Fanu, The Familiar
M.R. James, Oh, Whistle and I'll Come to You, My Boy
Oliver Onions, The Beckoning Fair One
These are all ghost stories, but the term also refers to weird tales and supernatural stories in general. You might try Le Fanu's Green Tea or M.R. James's Casting the Runes as well.
As for reading YA fiction--as people grow older, they do grow nostalgic for the books of their past and so we go back to such titles for comfort, solace, familiarity. I would just enjoy whatever strikes your fancy.
Munich, Germany: Well done there, Laddie - The Editor's Choice in the Chicago Tribune for "Book by Book".
Now don't start cowering under the weight of all this fame and glory. Stand tall and take this praise like a man.
Michael Dirda: Thanks. But I've asked my publishers and friends not to send me or talk to me about any reviews or notices that Book by Book might receive. I grow embarrassed by praise and annoyed by criticism.
Silver Spring, Md: I heard you this morning on the Diane Rehm show...nice treat! I need help, I have been buying lots and lots of books from used bookstores, and my house is looking like one big storage. I keep telling "the people I live with" that I will get around to sorting it out and will be reading each and everyone of them, so to lay off and not touch anything....but...well, I've read only a handful so far!!!! How do I part with some of these books and declutter?
Michael Dirda: Get rid of those you can't easily replace. You can always find, say, Anna Karenina. Discard the paperbacks, unless they're really unusual. Keep the first editions in jacket. Think hard about what you are really likely to read.
I, of course,don't follow this advice very well myself, but I do periodically go through a bit of spring cleaning and I bear such principles in mind.
ONe might also say: Just stop buying books for a while and read those you have. Easier said than done, I know.
Los Angeles, Calif: Any thoughts on John McGahern, who recently passed away?
Michael Dirda: I read a short story or two, should have read more. I hope others will properly celebrate him.
Swarthmore, Pa: Hi Mr Dirda,Do you have a favorite translator for Colette's works?
Michael Dirda: There's only a little choice in these matters, though some of the famous books have been translated more than once. Cheri, for example, exists in a translation by Janet Flanner, which is somewhat hard to find. I suspect that Antonia White's translation are probably among the best, or perhaps Roger Senhouse (who was Lytton Strachey's last lover and whose copy of a book of essays by John Carter I own).
The book to start on Colette with is Robert Phelps's Earthly Paradise, a collection of her autobiographical writings. Phelps was my mentor in the literary life, much revered by friends as diverse as Richard Howard, Ned Rorem and James Salter--and me.
Pullman didn't make me uncomfortable...: so much as deeply dismayed that his metaphysical viewpoint ended up taking away from plot coherence. I've told many of my friends that I considered The Amber Spyglass a crushing disappointment after the first two books, despite some lovely scenes.
Michael Dirda: I did say the first book was the best, and I don't entirely disagree with you about the last. It did feel a bit heavy-handed, but there are still wonderful pages even there. And the ending is very sad. But I wish we'd gotten more of my favorite character, that sexy witch Serafina Peccala.
Ashcroft, B.C. (BR): An interesting article on the CBC website today looks at the fine art of book blurbing, with the author pointing out that things are getting somewhat excessive, and that a problem arises when every blurb touts every book as 'brilliant' (it's pointed out, though, that blurbs for non-fiction books are more restrained and less fanciful). The article concludes by saying that the publishing world is prone to over-exaggeration and generalisation of a hysterical sort; which pronouncement, when coupled with the unfolding plagiarism scandal (attractive young author with great back story is groomed for stardom, with her book appearing to owe more to shrewd backroom cutting and pasting than actual inspiration and toil), might shock a few people into realising that publishing is (gasp) a business, dedicated to pushing a product and generating sales figures; if something of lasting social or cultural significance is produced along the way, then that's a nice side benefit, nothing more. And while it's tempting to paint the publisher and the author as the Big Bad Wolves in this story, out to pull a fast one on gullible readers, perhaps some of those throwing stones should ask themselves why the publisher thought that hyping a first book by an unproven author who looks and sounds good would be a sound business strategy. Answer? Because it would sell a lot more books to a lot more readers than publishing something more challenging written by an author not so obviously marketable. It's up to readers to look beyond the hype and the bestseller lists, otherwise this sort of story will become so common it's not even newsworthy anymore.
Michael Dirda: I agree entirely. Of course, when the blurbs on my books say that they and I am "brilliant," this is no less than the Gosepl truth. Right? Right?
Alexandria, Va: I really enjoy reading books that center on dystopian societies. I've read The Handmaid's Tale, Oryx and Crake, Cloud Atlas, and I'm currently reading Never Let Me Go (Kazuo Ishiguro), but I was wondering if you had any books you would recommend along these same lines.
Michael Dirda: A lot of science fiction and fantasy deals with dystopian societies, and you might want to explore more typical genre authors and books. Those you cite are essentially mainstream authors who have built on or borrowed the tropes of sf. For instance, you could look at Ursula Le Guin's The Dispossessed, Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451, almost any of Philip K. Dick's novels. If you want to go back to the classics, consider Eugene Zamyatin's We, Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, Orwell's 1984 and Burgess's A Clockwork Orange.
Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: Michael--One week ago today you dismissed the plagiarism charges against Kaavya Viswanathan, and even suggested that Megan McCafferty was hoping to increase her sales from the controversy.Can you now admit that you were -way- off base on the Viswanathan story? She all but admitted to the plagiarism charges, her publisher withdrew her book, and just last night her publisher announced that it is canceling her two-book deal.It was far from much ado about nothing.
Michael Dirda: Yes, but at the time we didn't know all that we do now. And, as I indicated in an earlier posting today, I do see it as a much bigger scandal, but that those around her bear most of the blame, starting with her parents, then her agents, then her book packager, and only last her publisher.
Philadelphia, Pa: Thanks in advance for hosting your discussion today; it's always interesting to see what you and your readers unearth. My question concerns another historical novelist, not quite as good as Kenneth Roberts, by any means, but perhaps due for a revival. I'm thinking of the British author John Masters. I know his autobiographical volumes "Bugles and a Tiger" and "The Road Past Mandalay" are well-regarded by a military history readership, and am wondering if he's due for a revival of his fiction- "Bhowani Junction", "The Night Runners of Bengal", and "The Ravi Lancers", among others.
Michael Dirda: I wonder too. I read one of his books when I was very young, probably 12 or 13, but can't remember which it was. I liked it, but suspect it was probably better than that lukewarm sentiment sounds.
The late 50s and early 60s was a good period for historical fiction--Thomas B. Costain, for instance, whose The Black Rose I much enjoyed. But thinking of Masters, who deals with hunting, also reminds me of the pretty much forgotten Robert Ruark. Sigh. No memory of having starred/Atones for later disregard. (Robert FRost)
McLean, Va: For Alexandria (looking for tales of troubled worlds), you might also try some of the works of Doris Lessing.
Michael Dirda: Yes: Canopus in Argos is the title of her five volume series. I've never read it. Somehow it looked earnest as well as overlong.
Richmond, Va: Re: Sabbath's Theatre. I'm a big Roth fan, but I hated this book. Reading it made me feel filthy! I think the Zuckerman trilogy is good to start with.
Michael Dirda: Many thanks. The Zuckerman books include The Ghost Writer, Zuckerman Unbound, and one other; there's also a coda novella in the omnibus volume, "The Prague Orgy."
Anonymous: "I agree entirely. Of course, when the blurbs on my books say that they and I am "brilliant," this is no less than the Gosepl truth. Right? Right?"
Well, as blurbs on non-fiction books are "more restrained and less fanciful", that obviously indicates that any blurbs on your books are simply telling it as it is, not as someone would like it to be; but then we all know that, don't we?
Michael Dirda: Right, I guess. I suspect you of being the product of what used to be called "good Jesuit training." Or perhaps, to change religions, good Talmudic traning.
This whole Kaavya Viswanathan debacle: Hi Michael -- the thing that bugs me most about this whole story is that Viswanathan got into print largely for her looks and her background and not for the material she created (or plagiarized). I've got two novels on my computer that I've been trying to get published for the last two years, and while I don't think I have any more right to be published than any one else, it's disheartening to think that the content of your manuscript could come second to a lot of publishers. I know, I know -- publishing is a business, but still, you don't write something just to get your photo somewhere.
Michael Dirda: The literary world is no different than the world of politics. Image, buzz, connections--all these, alas, often matter far more than merit or substance.
Silver Spring, Md: I watched the Stone Reader, by Mark Moscowitz on his quest to find the author of The Stones of Summer by first-time author Dow Mossman. I loved the documentary. The reason I bring this up is b/c I just finished reading a book called Zenzele: A letter for My Daughter, by J. Nozipo Maraire. Brilliant book, but has not written anything else since! I hope it will now be another lost book.
Michael Dirda: Thanks for mentioning Stone Reader--a great film, probably the best documentary ever done about books and reading. If you don't know it, rent it. Absolutely enthralling. I will keep Zenzele in mind, though the subtitle does make it sound a little sentimental for my taste.
Don't know if you saw the NYT article about Phillip Roth's new book "Everyman" yesterday, but he said something interesting that I'd love to get your take on. His new novel is only 200 pages (and was inspired by Saul Bellow's death), a length he apparently finds refreshing. He says:
"The thing about this length that I've particularly come to like is that you can get the impact of a novel, which arises from its complexity and the thoroughness of detail, but you can also get the impact you get from a short story, because a good reader can keep the whole thing in mind. Motifs can be repeated, and they will be remembered."
Having just completed your "Open Book" this past weekend (a delightful read and one that makes you feel like an old friend!), I'm well aware of your fondness for loooooog books, so what do you think about Roth's observation?
Michael Dirda: Well, I also like novellas and short novels. In fact, I praised to high heaven Roth's The Dying Animal, also a 200 page book. (DAvid Lodge and I seem to be its primary champions.) What Roth says is true: Nabokov said that on a first read of a novel you were just picking up the plot details, only on the second would you be able to see the artistry, the mortise and tenon work.
This summer I'm teaching up at the Bread Loaf School of English and one of my two classes is devoted to The Short Novel.
Dystopian lit: It's not exactly in that category but The Traveller by John Twelve Hawks I believe is along such lines. The first of a projected triology. Makes one think about our current society and the intrusions of technology and the machine.
Congrats on Book by Book. I pre-ordered it on line and can't wait to get my copy.
I just finished the Goldstone's new book The Friar and the Cipher. A non-fiction account of the Voynich manuscript. It was not only a book-on-book but a review of Roger Bacon and his world and threaded the story through John Dee and Francis Bacon, ending with the current cryptographers. Have you read it and do you have an opinion?
Michael Dirda: Haven't read it, alas. It does sound good. Do you know James Blish's novel about Rogert Bacon, Doctor Mirabilis? I will admit to a certain reluctance recently when it comes to these sorts of books. I think the popularity of The Da Vinci Code has spoiled all such "mysteries" for me, even those that are nonfiction.
McLean, Va: Re Doris Lessing. Also, The Memoirs of a Survivor (post-apocolyptic world). She's not everyone's cup of tea, tho.
Kaavya Viswanathan : Hi! I agree that this whole plagiarizing thing is a mess (as was James Frey and JT Leroy) but really, isn't this a cultural issue? In that everyone seems to be looking for short cuts and the fast $$$$. No one wants to toil and work. It's all about winning the lottery (whether as an athlete with a HUGE contract, a reality TV star, or a young person trying to get into Harvard).
Michael Dirda: Yes. It is cultural. Everyone wants to be a young movie star or rock star, and that's how publishers sell young writers. The notion that you actually need to know something to write, or to have experienced something of life, tends to be overlooked.
ON the other hand, Michael Cox--well known among fans of ghost stories for his biography of M.R. James--has a big, big first novel (in all senses) coming in the fall. It's called The Meaning of Night, and Cox must be around 60. And of course Penelope Fitzgerald didn't publish any fiction till she was 60 and by the time she died a dozen or so years later was one of the most admired novelists in Britain. An inspiration for us late bloomers.
Pullman Car, Calif: Agree with both of you on the downward trajectory of the Dark Materials trilogy. The first book is brilliant, a classic, but I was sorry to have a character as delightful as Lyra, not to mention the armored bears, give way to the other characters in the next two books.
Though I am nearly 40, perhaps I would not have been as critical as youngster.
Michael Dirda: Probably not. I mean, as kids we read one Hardy Boy after another, without any complaint, and always eager for more cookie-cutter adventure.
Maryland: I just finished "An Open Book: Coming of Age in the Heartland" and I really enjoyed it. Your mother is such a colorful and quirky character, I think you could write an entire book about her. Did "Alex" break up with you because she found out about your dalliance with "Renee?"
Michael Dirda: My mother lives and is a character, though I try to balance her off against the darker, pervasive influence of my father.
"Alexandra" broke up with me because she fell for a guy on her junior year abroad program. No one ever knew about "Renee" until I wrote the book. I did meet the woman I married when I got back to Oberlin that fall--one reason why I couldn't go on with the story.
I'm glad you enjoyed the book and hope you'll check out the new one, which is--in a funny way--a complement to An Open Book. The memoir talks about how I discovered books; Book by Book shows, in a brief concise way, some of what I learned from the books I read.
And that, friends, is it for another session of Dirda on Books! Until next Wednesday at 2, keep reading!
Nashville, Tenn: Great Dystopian novel (just great novel really)-- Riddley Walker By Russell Hoban
Michael Dirda: Yes, indeed. Couldn't resist a final comment on one of my favorite writers and books.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Michael Dirda takes your questions and comments concerning literature, books and the joys of reading.
| 264.909091 | 0.954545 | 20.045455 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101349.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101349.html
|
Appropriations Chair Not Afraid To Stand Apart From House GOP
|
2006050419
|
As House Republicans' unity frays in a difficult election year, House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.) and his expansive 66-member panel are challenging the GOP leadership and Republican conservatives.
Twice last month, Lewis and his committee nearly derailed high-profile legislation, first forcing GOP leaders to pull their 2007 budget blueprint from House debate and then bringing consideration of a major lobbying and ethics bill to a halt Thursday. Only after House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) pleaded, saying that his reputation was at stake, did committee members allow the lobbying bill to proceed to a vote, now scheduled for tomorrow.
Those actions are underscoring a political truism often uttered by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.): Congress has three political parties -- Republicans, Democrats and appropriators. Traditionally, the appropriations committees in both chambers of Congress have operated with bipartisan comity and an independent streak. GOP leaders tried to rein them in after the Republican takeover in 1994, but Lewis in recent weeks has emerged as a force, reasserting his panel's independence.
"We are getting more authoritative," said Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), an Appropriations Committee member who behind closed doors spoke vociferously against the lobbying bill, which he thought unfairly singled out the panel. "We are standing up for our turf."
Lewis, elected to the House in 1978, once used his background as a lifeguard to save former House speaker Jim Wright (D-Tex.) as he flailed off the shores of Hawaii. And the insurance salesman-turned-California pol has been reaching out to the other party ever since, so much so that in 1992, conservatives allied with then-Rep. Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) derailed Lewis's rise through the House leadership. That left him to build his power through the Appropriations Committee.
Lewis assumed the committee chairmanship in 2005 with the Republican leadership's blessing, after a brutal competition with two other Appropriations subcommittee chairmen, Reps. Harold Rogers (R-Ky.) and Ralph Regula (R-Ohio). But if GOP leaders expected a more docile committee, they have been taken by surprise -- so much so that some House conservatives have been calling for Lewis to be replaced.
Lewis's leadership first came into focus early last month, when he balked at a 2007 budget plan that would have restricted his committee's ability to pass emergency spending bills in response to natural disasters by limiting annual emergency bills and funding them through a designated rainy-day fund. That budget plan remains in limbo.
But the issue of the committee's conduct came to a head last week when the panel refused to accept provisions in the lobbying bill to restrict the number of earmarks -- narrowly tailored measures to fund home-district projects. Appropriators have guarded their earmarking prerogative for years, generously funding their own districts while doling out favors to House members off the committee.
Under the lobbying bill, such measures and their sponsors would have to be clearly delineated in legislation. Opponents would be granted new power to strip such earmarks from legislation, even if it meant bringing down an entire bill deemed excessively larded with pet projects.
Appropriators first said that the provisions were unnecessary and would tie the House in knots, handing Democrats a cudgel to hit Republicans with. Then they said that if earmarks are to be targeted in the 11 annual appropriations bills that fund the government, it should be done in tax measures and "authorization" bills, such as last year's huge highway bill that funded Alaska's "Bridge to Nowhere."
Conservatives, such as Rep. Mike Pence (Ind.), said that Lewis had no real desire to spread earmark reform. By applying earmark limits to the bills of the Ways and Means and Transportation committees, they said, Lewis hoped those committees' chairmen, Reps. Bill Thomas (R-Calif.) and Don Young (R-Alaska), would join the effort to scuttle the earmark measures.
Most panel members denied that charge, but Simpson conceded the point to a degree.
"Are there people who still don't like what's happening in terms of earmark reform? Yeah," he said. "And some probably did think Don Young and Bill Thomas would say, 'No, no, no, no,' and kill it altogether."
But most committee members, including Lewis, really thought that spreading the earmark limits was a matter of fairness, Simpson said. In fact, several members who are also on the House leadership's team of vote counters said they were prepared to give up their spots on the "whip" team to vote against the leadership.
"I had the decision, 'Am I a member of the leadership as a whip, or am I an appropriator?' " said Rep. Kay Granger (R-Tex.), who ultimately backed Lewis. "Well, I'm both, and I worked hard to get on the committee."
To panel members, what happened last week was a clear triumph for Lewis. During a closed meeting Thursday afternoon, Hastert and House Majority Leader John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) assured members that no final lobbying bill would reach the floor unless its restrictions on earmarking applied to all committees. Boehner said, "There will be no bill, there will be no bill, there will be no bill."
Then Hastert made his appeal, according to GOP aides who were present. He wants his legacy to be a unified, effective Republican conference. The popular speaker is expected to retire in 2008, and Hastert said he needed members' help to preserve his reputation.
Rep. Rodney Alexander (La.), who was elected in 2002 as a Democrat and switched parties two years later, said he believes in Republican principles and does not want to see his party break apart. One member asked Hastert if it is true that momentum is building to unseat Lewis from his chairmanship. Hastert assured the group that Lewis is safe. The committee then moved to back the speaker.
"This was a spontaneous, grass-roots reaction of the entire committee to demand full-scale earmark reform to apply to all committees," said Rep. John A. Culberson (R-Tex.). "And we won."
|
Full coverage of Congress, including the House of Represenatives and the U.S. Senate. The Washington Post and washingtonpost.com provide analysis of Capitol Hill.
| 47.192308 | 0.576923 | 0.961538 |
high
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100992.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100992.html
|
'Natural' Guidance
|
2006050419
|
Consumer Reports, the bible of independent consumer ratings, has introduced a new database of information on thousands of herbs, dietary supplements and other natural medicines, a response to the enormous growth in the use of these products.
The new database -- unveiled last week and believed to be the most comprehensive of its kind -- contains detailed and easily accessible information on the safety, effectiveness and possible harmful interactions of nearly 14,000 supplements. It is available for a $19 annual fee, which also gives users access to Consumer Reports guides to prescription drugs and medical treatments.
The database, officially known as the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, is the product of the Therapeutic Research Center in Stockton, Calif., which analyzes prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Like Consumers Union (CU), which publishes the monthly Consumer Reports magazine and does not accept advertising, the center receives no funding from pharmaceutical companies, according to its chief, Jeff Jellin.
Jellin, a former professor of pharmacy, said that the center is funded by subscriptions to two newsletters it publishes: the Prescriber's Letter and the Pharmacist's Letter. The consumer database is adapted from these newsletters, which circulate to medical schools, hospitals, doctors and pharmacists, according to Jellin, who is the editor-in-chief.
"It looks like there's a tremendous amount of useful information here," said Allen J. Vaida, executive director of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), a nonprofit group that promotes drug safety, of the new CU database.
For several years CU has provided information to subscribers about prescription drugs through a partnership with the Bethesda-based American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.
"We decided to do this because we get calls all the time" about natural medicines, said CU project manager Nancy Metcalf.
A 2002 survey found that an estimated 19 percent of Americans take at least one supplement-- ranging from ginkgo to improve memory to St. John's wort to treat depression.
Many users erroneously regard these products as safe because they are "natural" and do not consider them to be drugs, Metcalf noted. In fact, the efficacy of many products is untested, their purity unknown and their safety uncertain because they are largely exempt from the scrutiny of the Food and Drug Administration.
Even so, demand for natural medicines seems insatiable: Americans now spend an estimated $20 billion annually on herbal remedies for weight loss or to treat back pain, dementia or cancer, studies have found. Because of growing demand, the number of products has skyrocketed.
Yet credible information about supplements remains scarce and what exists may require parsing complicated scientific studies. Although many Web sites and guides offer information about such medicines, much of it is produced by groups that have a financial interest in selling the products, experts say.
"CU does a good job," said Candy Tsourounis, an associate professor of pharmacy at the University of California, San Francisco. Tsourounis, an expert in the use of herbs and natural medicines, called the natural medicine guide informative and "very user-friendly."
The National Institutes of Health sponsors two databases -- through its Office of Dietary Supplements ( http://dietary-supplements.info.nih.gov/ ) and its National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine ( http://www.nccam.nih.gov/ ). Both provide safety and effectiveness information about supplements that is free of commercial influence. But neither site contains as much detailed or easily accessible information as the CU database, which allows consumers to check which natural medicines might be effective for specific health problems.
Search "colds," for example, and information on 17 supplements pops up. Among them are echinacea, which the guide classifies as "possibly effective" in reducing cold symptoms based on published studies, and ginseng, for which it says there is "insufficient evidence."
CU's database ( http://www.consumerreportsmedicalguide.org/ ) lists approximately 100 brands of supplements that contain garlic, often taken to reduce cholesterol or blood pressure, for which it is rated "possibly effective." The site warns users that garlic supplements could interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills because they speed the breakdown of estrogen and may interact with statins, which are broken down by the liver.
Vaida of ISMP said he hopes the detailed safety information won't lead users to self-medicate. "The important thing is that people should not go on this site and decide for themselves whether to tell their doctor or pharmacist" they are taking a supplement, he said.
Alternative medicine specialist Adriane Fugh-Berman, an associate professor of complementary medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine, said that while the CU directory is " much more accurate than many other resources," it fails to distinguish between theoretical risks various supplements may pose at a cellular level and actual harm seen in human studies.
"Extreme caution can work against public health outcomes," said Fugh-Berman, who has written about the benefits of some herbal medicines. If consumers are told "everything interacts with everything, people will just stop listening."
Jellin said that such distinctions appear on the professional version of the database, but not on the consumer Web site.
"We put forward what we think is the best advice," he said. If a theoretical harm is deemed potentially significant, such as increased bleeding associated with ginkgo ingestion, it is posted in the interest of consumer protection.
A distinctive feature of the database is its ability to quickly check interactions between herbal supplements and prescription drugs.
The listing for the popular antidepressant Zoloft, for example, shows interactions with more than 80 supplements and herbs, including vitamin E, which is often taken to protect the heart.
Jellin said his employees combed through 1,450 scientific studies of supplements last year, and he expects the number to be higher this year because of growing scientific research in herbal medicine. Like the newsletter database, the guide is continuously updated.
"Had I known 10 years ago how much work this would be," he quipped, "I never would have done it." ·
|
Consumer Reports, the bible of independent consumer ratings, has introduced a new database of information on thousands of herbs, dietary supplements and other natural medicines, a response to the enormous growth in the use of these products. The National Institutes of Health sponsors two databases...
| 22.823529 | 0.980392 | 35.843137 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101382.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101382.html
|
College's Ex-President Pleads Guilty to Fraud
|
2006050419
|
The former president of Morris Brown College, a historic black school in Atlanta, pleaded guilty yesterday to embezzling millions of dollars in federal funds from the government and students, the climax of a financial debacle that caused the school to lose its accreditation.
Delores Cross, 69, who led the school from November 1998 until February 2002, pleaded in federal court in Atlanta to one court of illegally obtaining student loans, allowing her to avoid a trial and more than two dozen other counts she was confronting.
"I will always regret what happened, and I apologize to the students, the faculty and the staff of Morris Brown College," Cross said in a statement through her lawyer.
According to the 2004 indictment, $3.4 million in federally insured student loans and Pell grants were fraudulently obtained in the names of ineligible students -- some who never attended the college, some who were enrolled part time and others who had already left. It was never alleged that Cross personally benefited from the scheme, but that the money was used to pay bills at the strapped school. Ultimately the students found themselves responsible for loans they never requested.
"The Morris Brown College family is elated that this sad chapter in the college's history has come to closure," said Getchel L. Caldwell, vice president for institutional advancement at the school. "We are looking forward to building a new foundation."
Parvesh Singh, a former director of financial aid at the college, pleaded guilty last week to one count of theft of federal funds, admitting to fraudulently securing more than $92,000 in government loans for students whom he was aware were not attending the school. As part of his deal, Singh, 64, was committed to testify against Cross.
Had Cross gone to trial on the single count, she could have faced up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Prosecutors are asking for up to 16 months in jail.
Under the agreement, she will pay $11,000 in restitution.
"Dr. Cross is relieved . . . this ordeal is over," said her lawyer Drew Findling, reading a prepared statement. "She hopes that ending the prosecution will assist Morris Brown in regaining its accreditation."
The 125-year-old college, which counts civil rights leader Hosea Williams and Pulitzer Prize-winning author James A. McPherson among its alumni, is still in a tenuous situation. It has gone from a robust campus of 2,000-plus students to an enrollment of 66 this year, with nine instructors. Students are no longer eligible for financial aid. Recently a group of students filed a lawsuit asking a judge to remove the board of trustees for breaching its fiduciary duty.
Prosecutors say that the mismanagement that devastated the school also hurt the credit ratings of students who only found out about the loans years later when they tried to obtain credit. The school is also fighting lawsuits brought by former students, and other suits stemming from the financial woes.
Caldwell said the school intends to reapply for accreditation -- which requires the institution to have a balanced budget for three years -- in 2009. It has $25 million in long-term debt.
He said both the alumni association and the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which founded the school in 1881, have promised to help the school rebound.
"We will have 107 students in the fall," Caldwell said. "That's how many students were enrolled when the school was founded. We're definitely going to make it."
|
The former president of Morris Brown College, a historic black school in Atlanta, pleaded guilty yesterday to embezzling millions of dollars in federal funds from the government and students, the climax of a financial debacle that caused the school to lose its accreditation.
| 14.361702 | 1 | 47 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101248.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101248.html
|
Reclaiming the Lost Year
|
2006050419
|
One in an occasional series looking at learning in the middle and high school years
High school senior Risa Masuda has no time to let "senioritis" get in her way.
She takes Advanced Placement courses, participates in a senior project on low-cost housing, works in student government and helps teachers during class -- an experience, she said, that made her rethink her childhood dream of being an educator.
The 18-year-old credits her school, New Trier Township High School in Winnetka, Ill., with keeping her engaged during a year commonly perceived as the time when students snooze during lectures on Hamlet's angst, take requirements they should have completed in ninth grade, do less homework than in the killer junior year and bide time before the rest of their lives begin.
But Masuda and plenty of her peers say that despite the perception of 12th grade as the lost year, it is anything but.
"If given the opportunity to graduate early, I wouldn't have taken it," said New Trier's Brian Frost, 18, who is bound for the University of Illinois. "High school is a time you can't get back, and I wanted to enjoy all four years of it. I have."
New Trier is at the forefront of efforts across the country to improve 12th grade, commonly depicted as a two-stage trial that begins with the intense period of college applications and ends with senioritis, a condition afflicting hundreds of thousands of students that is commonly manifested through malaise and apathy -- a sense of do-nothingness.
As national concern grows over the quality of America's workforce -- and with reports that about 30 percent of students who go to college need remediation -- 12th grade has become a central issue in the debate about the future of public education.
Educators say too many schools leave their seniors bored or poorly educated, pointing to the need for reform throughout high school and even earlier. Many seniors have completed nearly all or most of their academic requirements and "have no need to continue to be at a high school," said Tom Lasley, dean of the University of Dayton's School of Education.
More than half of the country's governors and various panels have called for the remaking of the grade. Among the recommendations: getting rid of 12th grade and sending students straight to college or instituting a year of public service.
New Trier went down a different path. A program was created based on the idea that today's seniors are "kids in transition" who are growing up faster in some ways than earlier generations but are less emotionally mature.
"We say, 'You guys be invested in this thing that is ending until the very last minute.' It doesn't make sense. We expect the impossible from these kids," said Larry Rehage, one of two directors of New Trier's senior program. He also educates other schools about improving 12th grade.
|
One in an occasional series looking at learning in the middle and high school years
| 37.933333 | 1 | 15 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101380.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050101380.html
|
In Saudi Arabia, a Resurgence of Sufism
|
2006050419
|
JIDDAH, Saudi Arabia -- A hush came over the crowd as the young man sitting cross-legged on the floor picked up the microphone and sang, a cappella, a poem about Islam's prophet Muhammad. His eyes shut tight, his head covered by an orange-and-white turban, he crooned with barely contained ardor of how the world rejoiced and lights filled the skies the day the prophet was born.
The men attending the mawlid -- a celebration of the birth and life of Muhammad -- sat on colorful rugs, rocking gently back and forth, while the women, on the upper floor watching via a large projection screen, passed around boxes of tissues and wiped tears from their eyes.
The centuries-old mawlid, a mainstay of the more spiritual and often mystic Sufi Islam, was until recently viewed as heretical and banned by Saudi Arabia's official religious establishment, the ultraconservative Wahhabis. But a new atmosphere of increased religious tolerance has spurred a resurgence of Sufism and brought the once-underground Sufis and their rituals out in the open.
Analysts and some Sufis partly credit reaction to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in the United States for the atmosphere that has made the changes possible. When it was discovered that 15 of the 19 hijackers were Saudi, the kingdom's strict Wahhabi doctrine -- which had banned all other sects and schools of thought -- came under intense scrutiny from inside and outside the country. The newfound tolerance Sufis have come to enjoy is perhaps one of the most concrete outcomes of that shift.
"This is one of the blessings of September 11. It put the brakes on the [Wahhabi] practice of takfir , excommunicating everyone who didn't exactly follow their creed," said Sayed Habib Adnan, a 33-year-old Sufi teacher. The government "realized that maybe enforcing one religious belief over all others was not such a good idea."
When Adnan moved to Saudi Arabia from his native Yemen four years ago, Sufi gatherings were often clandestine, sometimes held in orchards outside the city, or in basements and without microphones, for fear of drawing attention. "I couldn't wear this," he said, pointing to his turban. "Or this," he said, pulling at his white cotton overcoat. "Or I would be branded a Sufi. You couldn't even say the word 'Sufi.' It was something underground, dangerous, like talking about drugs."
Sufis here say they are not a separate sect or followers of a separate religion, but adherents to a way of life based on the Muslim concept of ihsan . Muhammad explained ihsan to the angel Gabriel as "worshiping God as if you see Him. Because if you don't see Him, He sees you." Another Sufi characteristic is a strong belief in the power of blessings from the prophet, his close relatives and his companions.
Sufism had previously been predominant in Hejaz, the western region of Saudi Arabia, which includes Muhammad's birthplace, Mecca; Medina, where he is buried; and the Red Sea port city of Jiddah. Muslims prayed often at shrines where the prophet's daughter Fatima, his wife Khadija and his companions were buried. Mawlids were public affairs with entire cities decked out in lights, and parades and festivities commemorating the prophet's birthday and his ascension to Jerusalem.
When the al-Saud family that would later come to rule Saudi Arabia took over Hejaz in the 1920s, the Wahhabis banned mawlids as a form of heresy and destroyed the historic shrines of Khadija, Fatima and the prophet's companions, fearing they would lead to idolatry and polytheism.
Wahhabis, crucial allies in the Saud conquest of the disparate regions that became Saudi Arabia in 1932, were awarded control of religious affairs.
Discrimination against Sufis, among others, intensified after armed Wahhabi extremists took over Mecca's Grand Mosque in 1979, demanding that a more puritanical form of Islam be applied in the country. Though the government quelled the uprising and executed its leaders, authorities were shaken by the incident, and lest other Wahhabis defy them, they allowed them more rein.
Soon after, extremist clerics issued a religious edict, or fatwa, declaring Sufi's spiritual leader, Muhammad Alawi Malki, a nonbeliever. He was removed from his teaching position, banned from giving lessons at the Grand Mosque, where both his father and grandfather had taught, and interrogated by the religious police and the Interior Ministry. After Malki was later attacked by a throng of radicals incensed at his presence in the mosque, he could pray there only under armed guard.
Meanwhile, thousands of cassettes and booklets circulated calling Sufis "grave-lovers" and dangerous infidels who had to be stopped before they made a comeback. Their salons were raided, and those caught with Sufi literature were often arrested or jailed.
The tide finally turned in 2003, with the new atmosphere that took hold following the Sept. 11 attacks, when the future King Abdullah, then the crown prince, held a series of meetings to acknowledge the country's diverse sects and schools of thought. One of the guests was Sufi leader Malki. When he died the following year, Abdullah and the powerful defense and interior ministers attended his funeral. The rehabilitation of his legacy was almost complete.
"We were then upgraded from infidels, to people who are ignorant and practicing their religion wrong," said Wasif Kabli, a 59-year-old businessman.
But many Sufis complain that despite outward appearances, Wahhabis continue to destroy shrines in and around their holy places, their salons continue to be raided and their literature is still banned.
Wahhabis and Sufis view Islam from opposite directions. To Wahhabis, who emerged from the kingdom's stark, harsh desert, a believer's relationship can be only directly with God. To them, Sufis' celebrations of the prophet's life smack of idolatry, and supplications to him, his relatives and companions appear to replace or bypass the link with God.
Sufis answer that the prophet celebrated his own birthday by fasting on Mondays, that he himself offered to intervene with God on behalf of Muslims and that he could often be found in the evenings at the grave sites of his wives and companions.
Last month, on the occasion of the prophet's birthday, a crowd of more than 1,000 gathered to celebrate at a private residence. Sufi books, cassettes and DVDs were selling out in one corner of the large garden where the event was held. Adnan, the Sufi teacher, was one of four speakers who addressed the crowd. He asked: Why are we Sufis always on the defensive? "Nobody asks [soccer] fans for religious proof that sanctifies their gatherings at the stadium because of their devotion to their team," he said. "How come we are always asked for an explanation of our devotion to our beloved prophet?"
Muhammad Jastaniya, a 20-year-old economics major and part of a new wave of young Saudis who have embraced Sufism, said what drew him was the focus on God.
On a recent moonlit evening, Jastaniya sipped sugary mint tea with his friends on rugs spread on the rooftop of a Zawiya, or lodge where Sufis go to meditate, chant or sit in on lessons. The words 'God' and 'Muhammad' were written in green neon lights, and Islam's 99 names for God were stenciled in black paint around the wall. "To be a Sufi is to clear your heart of everything but God," he explained. "The Islam we were taught here is like a body without a soul. Sufism is the soul. It's not an alternative religion -- it can contain all Muslims."
That thought seems to be taking hold, even in faraway corners.
Salman al-Odah, the country's most popular puritanical cleric, who was jailed in the 1990s for opposing the presence of U.S. troops in the kingdom, accepted an invitation to visit Sufi cleric Abdallah Fadaaq's mawlid and lesson last week. The scene at Fadaaq's house was an obvious sign of conciliation.
Al-Odah sat with his hands neatly folded in his lap, wearing a red-and-white checkered headdress and clear wraparound glasses and sporting the short scraggly beard that indicates a conservative. Fadaaq, who at 39 is emerging as the new symbol of Hejazi Sufism, wore the white turban, the white overcoat and shawl typical of Sufis, wooden prayer beads resting on his lap. "It's true that there are differences between the way people practice their faith in this country, and this is an indication that people are using their minds and thinking, which is a good thing," Fadaaq said. "But what we should concentrate on are the expanses that bring us together, like the prophet. We must take advantage of what we have in common."
|
JIDDAH, Saudi Arabia -- A hush came over the crowd as the young man sitting cross-legged on the floor picked up the microphone and sang, a cappella, a poem about Islam's prophet Muhammad. His eyes shut tight, his head covered by an orange-and-white turban, he crooned with barely contained ardor of...
| 26.230769 | 0.984615 | 63.015385 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801093.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801093.html
|
Talk About Travel
|
2006050419
|
The Post's Travel Section Flight Crew will take your comments, questions, suspicions, warnings, gripes, sad tales and happy endings springing from the world of... the world. Of course, the Flight Crew will be happy to answer your travel questions -- but the best thing about this forum, we insist, is that it lets travelers exchange information with other travelers who've been there, done that or otherwise have insights, ideas and information to share. Different members of the Crew will rotate through the captain's chair every week, but the one constant is you, our valued passengers.
We know you have a choice in online travel forums, and speaking for theentire Flight Crew, we want to thank you for flying with us.
You may also browse an archive of previous live travel discussions.
Anne McDonough: We have a full crew with us today: KC Summers, John Deiner, Gary Lee, Carol Sottili, Cindy Loose, Andrea Sachs, Steve Hendrix and your truly, Anne McDonough. I went to the most glorious picnic in Rock Creek Park yesterday, which made me think of the times on the road when nothing beat an outdoor meal...nutella and fresh bread in France, cucumbers and potato chips on the Great Wall, smushed sandwiches at the Grand Canyon. How about you? The poster with the best (and succinct) traveling picnic story wins "A Year in the World" audiotape read by Frances Mayes and a shopping guide to San Francisco.
Joining us this week is Bruce Adams, co-author of yesterday's piece on St. Louis and the Cardinals' new stadium there. He's here to field any baseball travel questions you may have, so send 'em on over!
Online confusion: Please help -- I'm sure this is my novice-ness coming through, but I'm confused. Online this weekend, I was quoted a rate at a specific airline for round-trip tickets to Europe. The site required an e-signature stating that you agreed to pay the quoted amount by credit card. I signed. This morning I called the service to pay and they said sorry, the flights were "requested" by their system but not immediately available at that rate and that they were working on getting them. I asked when they would know if they could get them and they said they didn't know. I need to make reservations for my trip, but they implied that I would have to pay if they ultimately obtained the tix at that rate. Once the retailer tells me the flights I thought I'd reserved aren't available at a quoted price, how long am I obligated to wait for them to see if they can get them at that price? (I can't imagine I'd be obligated to purchase whatever they offer on whatever airline at whatever price.) I need to make reservations, but can't end up paying for two sets of tickets and don't want to wait until flight prices are beyond reason (well, more beyond reason than they already are). Thanks.
Carol Sottili: I have never heard of this before. Where (what site) did you buy these tickets? I'm sure it's a third-party vendor, not an airline, and I can guess that it's not a major operations, such as Orbitz or Travelocity. I'd call them and get out of the deal now.
Falls Church, Va.: I recently booked a trip to Dublin far in advance through Expedia, taking a US Air flight (operated by United) to Chicago then Aer Lingus, in January 2007. The price was pretty good: $360 r/t, including tax, and I have made that connection and terminal change before with few troubles. The only strange thing was that I was required to get paper tickets, for an extra $20 in shipping and handling. I haven't used paper tickets in a long time. Are there any advantages or disadvantages with paper tickets in case something goes wrong? If US Air or United go belly-up in the next eight months, am I hosed?
Carol Sottili: I believe Aer Lingus still does paper tickets. I can't see any disadvantage to having paper tickets. They're easier to transfer from airline to airline.
Washington, D.C.: Hi Travel Crew, I'm heading off for three weeks in
Malaysia this July. I am planning on visiting KL, the
Cameron Highlands, Penang, Melaka and Singapore. Do
you have any suggestions for additions/removals to that
list? Any special recommendations or memorable
activities? I'm very flexible on what I do while there,
though I'd like to stick to Penninsular Malaysia this trip.
Anne McDonough: You're in for a great trip. One place I'd not miss in Malaysia is Taman Negara National Park; you could spend several days there. Gary says you're definitely on the right track with Penang and Melaka. In Penang make sure to pay attention to the signs warning of man o'wars; I was with a friend who had quite a run-in with some big ones. There was a reason no one else was swimming that day! Anyone else with Malaysia suggestions?
Bethesda, Md: Hi Travel Crew,
Interesting article about summer fares. I'm trying to fly to Las Vegas during the last week of July and I've noticed prices not only going up but flexibility in travel times disappearing as well. Is this indicative of all the summer travel described in the article? Should I just suck it up and buy a ticket now or are there any alternatives where I could get a cheaper ticket or more flexibility in flight times?
John Deiner: Hey, Beth. Not only are the fares to Vegas high this summer (like everything else), hotels are pretty pricey, too -- at least compared with previous summers. Just a popular place. Anyhow, I wouldn't expect the fares to go down too much in the next couple of months. Have you checked Southwest? If you can find anything for $275 or less, I'd go ahead and book, because the under-$200 fares don't seem to be popping up at all for Sin City in the near future.
One other option: Priceline. Maybe you can squeeze out a decent fare that way, albeit perhaps not at the times or airline you want to go on.
Washington, DC: I have a friend who is going to be studying in St. Petersburg Russia from Aug. through May. I'd like to plan a visit there in October-- what is a good price for a flight? And how soon should I start the tourist visa process- since she isn't starting her program until late August, she suggested waiting until she has settled there for a week or so before making firm plans but I'm worried I'll end up with a pricey flight and extra fees for my visa. Thoughts and suggestions are most appreciated! Thanks.
Gary Lee: In the fall, good DC-St. Petersburg airline rates fall in the $700 to $1,000 range. I would suggest that you decide the dates, etc, that you're going before your friend leaves and start the visa process soon thereafter. Although the visa process is not as laborious as it used to be, complications can pop up in the last minute.
I would definitely not wait until she's there to apply for a visa. Please doublecheck the Russian consulate site for details about what you need for a visa but I am pretty sure that you'll need proof of travel and the place where you're going to stay.
Washington, D.C.: My husband and I need to travel to Savannah, GA the
weekend of July 1st. Now that Independence Air is no longer,
flights seem to be outrageously high to me. Right now, I'm
getting quotes of about $565/person for a direct flight from
DC to Savannah (leaving Friday, returning Sunday). Do you
think the fares will go down or will I have to adjust to life
without Independence fares? Thanks and love the chats!
Carol Sottili: Prices to places such as Savannah have skyrocketed since Independence Air went kaput. You can get cheaper fares, but you have to be willing to connect. Try Airtran.
Stuttgart Germany: Hi, love your chat! For the poster last week driving from Amsterdam to Munich, here is a route that will let you see some of the sights and still get there fairly directly: Go to Cologne; check out the cathedral and the chocolate museum. From there, drive along the Rhine River and maybe stop by a vineyard along the way--they're making some world-class wines. Go down to Heidelberg; massive castle ruins and a cool university town on the banks of the Neckar. From there, head east to Rothenberg ob der Tauber; most of the buildings and the entire city wall date from medieval times. From there, take the Romantic Road (many, many castles) at least to Augsburg. Either go directly to Munich or continue south to check out Neuschwantein castle and the Zugsptize, the highest mountain in Germany. From there, it is a short drive to Munich. Near Munich, be sure to stop by Dauchau for an amazing history lesson. Have fun!
Secondly, for the traveller looking for a short trip from St Petersburg: I know firsthand the major difficulties obtaining and changing Russian visas, but if you can get another exit/entry, go to Tallinn, Estonia. I was there two weeks ago, and it was wonderful. Lots to see, beautiful old town, everyone speaks English, and way cheaper than the rest of Europe. Go, go, don't miss it!
Gary Lee: Hey, thanks for these excellent tips. It's always good to get firsthand suggestions.
vegas: I am headed to Vegas for the first time this week. I fly out Thursday afternoon and am taking the red eye back on Sat night. I have Thursday night free. Is there one thing that you must do in vegas if it is your first time. I am staying at Caesars if this helps. I have plans friday night and will be sitting by the pool and betting on the derby on saturday.
Any Thursday night suggestions would be much appreciated on either can't miss dinner places or bars.
John Deiner: Sounds like you have a busy couple of days planned there. Since you only have one night, you'd do fine just by walking around and taking in the spectacle...see the fountains, the pirate show, the blinding lights, the staggering twentysomethings. If you can get show tickets, I'd shoot for either "O" (Bellagio), "Mystere" (Treasure Island) or Blue Man Group (Venetian).
As far as bars and restaurants . . . man, you're in food and drink central. Such a rocking scene, you won't have any trouble finding some fun. But as far as specifics go, let's ask the clicksters: You guys have any favorite spots to eat or drink in the Caesars vicinity?
Bethesda, Md: I'm looking at flights to Italy on Orbitz. Some of them connect elsewhere in Europe with a very brief (like 35-45 min.) stopover. It's been a while since I traveled to the EU--do you go through customs and immigration at your first EU stop, or only at your actual ending destination? In other words, is that way too short a stop?
Andrea Sachs: If it is only a connection, then you will not have to go through customs and immigration. You will only have to through C&I if you leave your gate area and/or the airport--or at your end destination.
Washington, DC: I've been invited to a wedding in Mexico over the Christmas Holiday. I'd also like to see my family during that time...hence, I'm trying to book a multi destination trip (DC to Mexico to New England to DC). Will it really save me money to do the entire trip (air and hotel) through a service like Expedia...or is that just a gimick? This is definitely a time when I feel an actual travel agent would make it less confusing!!!
Cindy Loose: First brace yourself: Christmas is of course always an expensive time to travel, but it can be a particuarly expensive time to travel to Mexico cause millions of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans living in the U.S. go home to visit family, to say nothing of gringos seeking sun.
Secondly, Expedia and others like them aren't gimmicks by any means--they in effect are travel agencies, but without the level of service and personal attention you would expect in a brick and mortar company. In exchange for you doing some of the work online, Expedia, ORbitz, Travelocity etc. charge either no fee or a very small one, like $5 for a ticket.
A brick and mortar travel agent will likely charge $50 to $100 a ticket to book you. Otherwise, they should be able to find a ticket just as cheap or even cheaper than any of the online agencies. In fact, the brick and mortar companies can and should check sites like that for deals, so no reason you pay a higher price than you could get online. They probably won't charge to book hotels for you--you'll have to ask.
A good agent can always save you time and confusion, and given that multi destination trips can be tricky to book, I think you should listen to the little man in your mind saying you should get a travel agent. Just don't be shocked by the price--Christmas is the worst time to go to Mexico, airfare wise.
Picnic story:: Eurailing after a semester abroad with a gal pal, we
initially had decided to cook in hostels whenever we could
to save money to splurge on good meals other times. We
boiled small pasta with red beans to make a pasta salad
for a picnic - then realized we had nothing to put it in. We
decided on an empty water bottle - it took an hour to put
each little piece of pasta and bean in, one by one.
When we got to the picnic site, a hill with a gorgeous view
of Brugge, Belgium, we cut the water bottle in half to
make 2 dishes, then squeezed lemon over the salad and
added salt and pepper. It was awful. We ate it anyway ...
Anne McDonough: That poor water bottle, sacrificed for the sake of some nazzogood pasta. Thanks for sharing!
Columbia, Md.: Travel picnic ... My girlfriend, Ana, and I, both thirty-somethings, sitting Indian-style in the middle of the Sonoma Wine Country, overlooking the vineyards and pigging out on various cheeses, crackers, chocolate-dipped strawberries and Champagne... best girls' trip ever. We do it every other fall -- the third week of October.
Anne McDonough: Now that's a tradition worth keeping.
Anonymous: I love the information you guys provide! My husband and I are traveling to San Diego with my 6 kids (ages 11- 8 months) in June. We will be there for a week. We plan on doing the Zoo and Sea World but want to let them get a taste of LA also. Do you have a couple of must see suggestions for the City or the drive up from San Diego?
Carol Sottili: I wouldn't go to Los Angeles at all. It's a two-hour-plus drive in the best of conditions. There is more than enough to do in San Diego for a week. Having lived in both cities, I think San Diego is more kid-friendly, and easier to get around. It's smaller and more tourist oriented. You could do the Disney thing in Orange County, but again, I'd stay put in San Diego, taking the kids to the beach, the zoo, Balboa Park, SeaWorld, a ball game, etc. Go to www.sandiego.org for ideas.
St. Louis layover: I have a 3 hour layover going/coming in St. Louis on my way to Vegas for Memorial Day weekend. Do you think that's enough time for a quick jaunt anywhere outside the airport? I am not familiar with where the airport is in relation to the city. Thanks!
Bruce Adams: Three hours? That might be a bit tight for my conservative travel tastes. It's not much fun to miss a flight. But the Metro Link rail runs out to the airport (which is north west of the downtown). You could take it downtown and take a quick look at the Gateway Arch, the new ballpark and the historic Courthouse. Check it out at www.metrostlouis.org.
Arlington, Va: Love the chats, Crew, and have an airline policy question for you. I have a very short connection on Continental in Houston coming up, and I'm scheduled to take the last flight of the evening from Houston back to DC. If I miss my connection because my first flight arrives late, does Continental owe me a hotel voucher, or am I on my own?
Cindy Loose: If you are flying some other airline and have a separate Continental ticket to fly from Houston, then forget about any help. For all they know or care, you live in Houston and just didn't leave home on time.
If you have one ticket on Continental and Continental is late, you have some hope of being put up overnight. Check their contract of carriage at their website--it should outline exactly when they will and won't put you up.
If the flight arrives on time and you just can't make your way through the airport in the time to make the gate, then plan again on paying for your own room--I think without checking the contract you can be pretty sure of that.
Good luck, and wear you running shoes.
DC Traveler: Has anybody been to Victoria, BC? I'm going to be in Seattle for a few days and figured that a side trip to Victoria might be nice. I have to know, however: are the ferries rough traveling? I've gotten seasick once before and I know it's a 2-3 hour trip, but I don't know if I can lay on a bench on these ferries or what. I won't have a car, just me and my luggage. Thanks.
John Deiner: I've been there! I've been there! And it's beautiful, and you should go, and the views from the trip are gorgeous. As I recall, the ferries are big ol' sturdy vessels, and the day I went, I had no problems with seasickness. I imagine that if the weather is not pleasant, the trip won't be. Can anyone (please!) add to this? Good or bad experiences?
Washington, DC: I'm an aid worker from Washington (currently in Baghdad on an assignment) and I have to say I'm constantly disappointed in the Washington Post's travel section. DC is a city filled with people like myself; ex Peace Corps volunteers, aid workers, adventure travelers, but every week all I ever see in your travel section is tips on cruise lines and the tamest of destinations. I think your section could benefit from a periodic (monthly?) column for the more adventuresome traveler. Please, consider those of us who don't think that a climbing rock on the Lido deck is the height of exotic travel.
Steve Hendrix: Well, I guess we can't get the mix right for everyone, WDC, but I don't your reading is accurate. In the last few months, we've run features on canyoneering out west, seeing gorillas in Rwanda, polar bears in the arctic, camping on the Galapagos, dog sledding in Canada, all kinds of second line destinations in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Asia. I myself have written about backcountry mountain biking (200 miles of it, dag nabbit!), climbing Kilimanjaro, working as river guide, backpacking in Montana, Burma, Guatemala. Tamest, forsooth!
As for cruising, it shows up a lot in deals and the CoGo column, but for the most part we limit features on cruising to two a year. Some people would like see more of it.
Anyone else want to chime in on the weekly mix?
Silver Spring, Md: I would like to buy a new carry-on size piece of luggage, preferably roller bag. I know that the standard is 45 inches total; is this true for international travel also? I want to buy one I can fly anywhere with but also be able to carry-on. Thanks!
KC Summers: Hi SS. Yes, 45 linear (i.e., total of length, width and depth) inches is what's allowed domestically, but international airlines vary -- so check with your airline to be safe. There's a good ballpark guide at http://www.luggagepros.com/policies/luggage-restrictions.shtml. Basically, what's sold as a 22-inch carryon should fit those standards.
You're smart to stick to carryons -- that's my philosophy too. But let me put in my standard plea here for packing light. I've found that even a 22-incher can be too big, i.e. when packed full, it can be difficult to fit into the overheda bin, and it's definitely too heavy for me to lift that size bag up into the bin -- a personal criterion of mine. I figure if I can't handle it, I shouldn't be traveling with it. Also, most airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds, which is another good incentive to pack light. So I tend to use 20-inch and 21-inch bags.
I am a single 35 year old female looking to take a long weekend vacation in July. Was thinking of NYC but the cost of hotels is more than I want to pay. Am a city person and have traveled solo to Paris and London. Any ideas that won't break my bank?
Anne McDonough: How about Montreal? It's a pretty quick flight, a great long weekend destination and definitely cheaper than New York. Check the Montreal Tourism Web site for some ideas ( www.tourisme-montreal.org). Or perhaps heading out to Chicago? Yup, it's hot in the summer, but so is NYC, and you might be able to get a better deal on hotels. Anyone else have any other ideas?
For Las Vegas: If you've never been to Vegas before, make sure one of your meals is a casino buffet. I haven't been in a while, so others probably have better suggestions than I about which ones are the best these days, but you have to at least experience the spectacle. If you've done a casino buffet in Atlantic City, this is nothing like that. These are serious buffets.
John Deiner: Good point (and even the AC buffets are starting to learn from its bigger, better sibling). Since the previous poster is staying at Caesars, he/she has the pick of a lot of good ones (Treasure Island's is brand new, but I'm assuming it's at least decent). I'd opt for the Aladdin's or the Mirage's myself.
Los Angeles, Calif.: Morning, 'crew! Here's my picnic story:
15 years ago I flew to meet my best friend from high
school after her semester in England for a Christmas
vacation of rail travel on the cheap. One thing she really
missed from the U.S. was peanut butter, so I brought her
a jar, which came in handy for snacking on trains all over
On one overnight trip (Copenhagen to NIce, I think) we
thought we had a cabin to ourselves until an old man
stumbled in, a Norwegian sea captain (or so he said). After
a while we offered him some of our picnic of peanut
butter and bread. He squinted and growled, "What is this
Skippy? THIS is my Skippy!" and waved a bottle of aquavit.
That sure perked up the picnic.
Anne McDonough: I love the bonds (odd or otherwise) that arise when travel and food mix. And as long as you have peanut butter and a chocolate bar, you'll never go hungry.
Arlington, Va: Recently had a negative experience with Expedia. Not sure how to handle this. I think it's a case of false advertising. I was searching for a package (air and hotel) to Montreal a couple of weeks ago. After doing some research, I plugged in my dates and the search engine told me to wait. I scanned the returned results and quickly (within less than a minute say) found a package I wanted of $700/pp. When I clicked to purchase by selecting "choose and continue" a new window came up saying "the package price has changed" with the listed price crossed out and the new price of about $300 dollars more than the search engine results. Stumped I tried again, then I checked a second choice hotel, and a third hotel and again the price in the results window changed by at least $200 the moment I clicked "choose and continue". I then decided to try my search all over again, and what do you know I got the same results page with the same advertised price of $700/pp for the same hotel and again when I clicked "choose and continue" I was shown the higher price of nearly $900/pp. So if the priced changed from the start of my search until the time I clicked choose and continue, why was each subsequent search showing the same advertised price. In the end it left a bad taste in my mouth and I purchased my tickets elsewhere. Isn't this false advertising. Oh, Expedia was kind enough to show me the great deal I was getting, noting that the package saved me about $19 versus buying the tickets separately (the original quote showed an "expedia discount for booking together" of about $300). I just tried again a fe days later a similar thing happened, I was quoted $736pp in the search results and then when I click on "choose and continue" the price changes to$880/pp. What's the deal? I generally prefer to deal with the airlines directly, but they weren't offering the hotel I wanted.
Carol Sottili: I don't think this is a problem unique to Expedia. I've seen it happen on many of the booking sites. They would argue that airfares sell out quickly, and that's where the price difference occurs. Most airlines devote only a small fraction of their seats at the lowest rates. The Web booking sites quote prices assuming these seats are available. But it's not at all uncommon for the cheap seats to be sold out. False advertising? I don't think so. Occasionally misleading? Probably. You could always book the items separately - air with airline, hotel with hotel.
Arlington, Va: In Caesar's: if you love chocolate, you must go to Vosges in The Forum...amazing chocolate, and exotic flavors like curry, wasabi, etc.
John Deiner: Cool -- great info, Arlington. Thanks. (And man...that addition to the Forum Shops is amazing, isn't it?!)
Fairfax, Va: Good afternoon flight crew!
This summer my family and I are going on a lovely weeklong trip to Europe. However, due to airline booking issues, we have a full day layover in London. We land at Hethrow at 8am, and have to fly out of Stansted at 7pm. My question is do we have enough time to get downtown to do some sightseeing, and if so, are there places to store luggage while we're busy being tourists?
Andrea Sachs: This is how I would approach it--to get the most of your layover, with the least bit of stress. Take a train or coach to Standsted to get rid of your luggage (if your plane allows, you can check it; if not, the airport should have locker facilities). Then, take a Standsted Express to central London, a 45-minute train ride (the stop is Liverpool Street). I worry that if you don't move your luggage to Standsted until after your London wanderings, you might miss your flight. Or, have to fly back without your bags.
Arlington, Va: Re. EU connections & customs:
It depends on the country. We flew to Greece, connecting through Munich, and we DID have to go through customs in Munich. When we landed in Greece, we just collected our bags and left the airport.
Andrea Sachs: Wow, never heard of that happening before. Thanks for your input.
Copenhagen, Denmark: For the Italy traveller: When you enter the first EU country, you go through the formalities of passport control etc. and will probably like to be on the safe side with a bit of time to spare. You only clear customs at your final European destination.
Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the additional information.
Anne McDonough: Don't forget we have a man-in-the-know here in case anyone has questions about traveling to minor or major league baseball stadiums. Bruce is up on the snacks, the fields and the atmospheres at parks across the country.
Washington, DC: Hi. Our baby will be 5-6 months old this summer, and we were thinking about traveling to Europe. Our thinking is that it's actually easier when they're babies than when they are toddlers (won't need to be running around). What do you think? However, we are a little concerned about how we would deal with transportation once we're there--do we bring a carseat? What do we do if we must take a taxi? Any insight helpful!
Steve Hendrix: Babies that age are wonderful to travel with (unless they're colicky or otherwise stretching your day-to-day sanity). Typically, they are far easier on you and fellow passengers than a squirmy two-year-old and you don't have to buy a seat for them. Do take the car seat, though. If you luck out and get an empty seat, it makes a great crib. If the row is full, just gate check it, and then you've got it for taxis or rentals on the other side.
Ashburn, Va: Passport Question: I have heard there are some countries who will not accept a passport that has been issued within the last 6 mos or will expire within 6 mos. Is this true?
Andrea Sachs: Yes, that is true. To be safe, your passport should have a six-month cushion on both sides (date of issue and expiration date).
Laurel, Md: Long-time lurker; first time submitting. Love the chats. They provide a wealth of information. By volunteering to give up my seat on a flight, I was lucky enough to score two free round-trip tickets to anywhere AirTran flys - a first for me. I know they are subject to black-out dates, but my question is how do I go about determining when these black-out dates are. I figure obvious dates would be around holidays.
Carol Sottili: Black-out dates will vary by destination. You're right about holidays - you may have trouble using them July 4th weekend or Christmas week. If you have a destination in mind, give them a call and ask. Go to www.airtran.com to see the route map.
New Haven, Conn: A few summers ago, I had knee surgery in June and spent most of July recuperating in California. In August, my boyfriend and I finally got to go on a summer vacation. We began our trip by driving up I-5, through the hot and dry Central Valley, with a cooler and a bag of Trader Joe's goodies in the back. When it was time for lunch, we were in Redding--and followed our noses and some helpful signs to a lushly green park along the Sacramento River, where we picnicked in the shade and watched the water flow by. It wasn't glamourous or international--but after the dry heat of the Valley and a long summer of watching TV and physical therapy, it felt like the best picnic in the world.
Anne McDonough: We don't need glamour or foreign travel, just delish memories--which is exactly what this sounds like. Hope that knee's as good as new...
Olney, Md: Hello, is there anything for a couple (early 50s) to do in Orlando, FL? We'll be there for a few days, but we are not too much into the whole Disney thing. Any suggestions will be welcome. Thank you!
John Deiner: Hey, Olney. I'm guessing you've already done Disney and didn't care for it? Lots to do there that isn't geared toward young'uns (shopping, eating, drinking, etc.). Likewise, if you like to go to the movies, Universal Studios and the adjacent CityWalk is great fun.
Otherwise, I'd suggest checking out nearby Winter Park and the Morse Museum of Art. It's got the world's largest collection of Tiffany artworks. Also, the town is cute and is full of shops and restaurants. And downtown Orlando (www.downtownorlando.com) has been working hard to lure the non-Disney crowd, with shops and museums.
Madison, Wis: Maybe I'm not allowed to even ask this question, and maybe you're not allowed to answer, but here goes I want to go to Cuba. This isn't a political statement or some kind of protest, I simply want to see and experience it. And yes, there is some "forbidden fruit" appeal, but only because it won't be mobbed by loud, dumb American tourists. I think it's insane that I'm actually not allowed to go there! My Canadian friends can go just by accident of being born one hundred miles north of me. Anyway, my question is-assuming I follow the advice of other covert Cuba travelers (fly to Mexico, buy a separate flight from there, ask the customs officer to stamp a separate sheet of paper slipped in my passport), how likely is it that I'll get caught and how much will I regret it if I do? I've heard everything from a few-thousand dollar fine (which I could live with), to a $70,000 fine and being blacklisted from all other international flights (which I could not live with). Thanks!
Cindy Loose: You are allowed to ask the question. And let me say Cuba is one of my favorite destinations on the planet. A really beautiful and fascinating place, and given that the embargo hasn't worked for 42 years, I doubt that your visit will undermine an otherwise brilliant, effective plan for bringing democracy to Cuba.
So, the penalty. Penalties were very rare until the Bush Administration started a crackdown. Even then, initially you could escape penalties by simply asking for an administrative hearing, cause there were no judges or officers to conduct a hearing, so everything went into limbo. However, a couple years ago Bush created a bureaucratic system for pursuing cases against Americans who visited Cuba.
The huge fines you're hearing about are for cases brought by the Department of Justice, but the Dept. of Justice has real work to do and no one there can even remember bringing such a case last time I checked.
However, the Office of Financial Assets Control now has a means of purshing cases, with an administrative judge and stuff. Typically if they catch you they send you a letter saying I caught you and you should pay a fine, usually something of a few thousand. Then you can ask for a hearing, and now, they actually can hold one.
If you choose to go through a third country: Cuba will not stamp your passport, but if you return to hte U.S. with anything that would show you've been in Cuba or would raise questions about your having been in Cuba--a receipt, a used bus ticket, a cigar--that could be used as proof against you.
There have been rumors that Nassau tips off U.S. officials that an American has come off a flight from Cuba. I've also heard one rumor about that regarding Mexico. Then again I know people who go from third countries and Big Brother never knew.
You can still go legally for religious purposes---OFAC gives out licenses for that purpose. I happen to know a Jew who visited obstentially to tell Cubans about Jesus.
Washington, D.C.: The poster from Germany reminded me of my favorite travel picnic story! When traveling through Munich at age 22, my friend and I decided to spend an absolutely beautiful August afternoon in the Englischer Garten. We packed a yummy picnic from a cute bakery in town and found a perfect little spot with the faint sounds of an Oompa band in the background. Apparently we hadn't read our guide book close enough, however, and didn't realize the park was "clothing-optional"... After a bit of a surprise and a fair amount of time diverting our eyes, we had delightful afternoon and a good laugh at our own immaturity!
Anne McDonough: Naked Picnic. Now THAT's an interesting lunch. Anyone headed to Munich, consider yourself warned.
Brooklyn, NY: The best picnic ever was with friends in a sleeper compartment on a night train from Moscow to St. Petersburg. We ate pickled garlic, potato chips, oranges, chocolate, and vodka--sounds vile, but vodka makes everything more fun! It was snowing as the train pulled away from the station and it felt so romantic and exotic to be tucked into our compartment, playing cards, and drinking and venturing into Mother Russia.
Anne McDonough: That all works for me but the pickled garlic. Though I'm sure that helped keep any unwanted visitors at bay.
Washington, D.C.: Howdy, I'm looking for a fairly cheap but not too sketchy hotel around Union Square in San Francisco. Any recommendations?
Also, I've noticed that virtually all of the hotels listed by Orbitz and Expedia require prepayment. Is this now the standard for online hotel reservations?
Cindy Loose: Check out the Bijou. Anyone else have ideas for fairly cheap but not too sketchy hotels in San Fran?
As to prepayment--yes, that is now common is booking through a third party on the internet. Sometimes, the hotel all will want prepayment if you book through their own sites online, sometimes not. That's cause the rate is usually lower than if you call, and they want to make sure that they don't both discount the room, and waste it too by waiting for a no show.
Weekly mix: I have to agree with the Baghdad worker. Though Iraq is a bit too exotic/deadly for me, the WaPo travel section does seem to skew towards the tame. It also appears to spend more time in Europe than other continents. A dedicated adventure travel or "backpacking" column would be a welcome addition.
KC Summers: Thanks for the feedback. It's hard keeping everyone happy, but we'll think about your idea -- and in the meantime, we'll continue to put a good mix of stories out there each week. Feel free to email us (travel@washpost.com) with specific things/places you'd like to read about.
Any other thoughts on our adventure coverage? Do we need less Europe, more Asia and elsewhere?
Delta tix: Thanks for doing these chats!
I have a booking with Delta in November. Are there any steps I can take to cover myself in case they fold?
Carol Sottili: Federal law that extends through November requires that other airlines take passengers of airlines that go out of business, but they can charge a fee of up to $50 each way. Can be problematic in summer season and around holidays when there are often no empty seats on popular routes. November, unless it's around Thanksgiving, would be one of those months you'd probably be able to get a seat.
Alexandria, Va: My husband and I are planning to visit my sister in Amsterdam this fall. We'd leave on a Saturday and return the following Saturday. We'd like to do a sidetrip to Belgium or elsewhere in Netherlands. Any suggestions for the side-destination? And, should we do a daytrip (stay in the same Amsterdam hotel the whole time) or leave Amsterdam and make a stop at our side-desitnation on our way home? Thanks!
Gary Lee: First, if you're doing a side trip in Holland (the Hague is a good one) then stay in the same Amsterstam hotel and do a day trip.
But a trip to Belgium might be more interesting. I would suggest that you think about Brussels, Brugge or Antwerp. If you opt for one of these, then plan on staying overnight. The travel distance is long enough that getting back to Amsterdam in a day would be too much hassle.
Hey Crew!: If you had to choose between the eastern side of Costa Rica or Belize which would you choose? I've done the whole western half of Costa Rica but I've been told the beaches on the other side are gorgeous but I've never been to Belize either. I'm just looking for a nice chill week, maybe rent a cabana or something along those lines. Do some snorkeling...
KC Summers: Okay, this is slightly unfair since I haven't been to Costa Rica, but I'm going to argue strongly for Belize. As in, you'd be crazy not to go there because it offers a lot more variety than C.R. -- Mayan ruins, jungle treks, exotic animals, incredible bird-watching, eco-adventures like cave tubing, and the most amazing snorkeling and diving. Okay, no volcano. But it's English-speaking, laid-back and friendly. Plus, San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is the cutest town ever, with sandy streets and divey bars -- like Key West in the '50s, some say. It's just a wonderful country.
Having said that, here's Steve with a vote for Costa Rica's eastern coast:
Steve Hendrix: Just to maintain balance, I'm going to vote for eastern Costa Rica even though I haven't been to Belize. I loved the remote feel of that stretch from Limon south to the great little surf town of Puerto Viejo (excellent cabana ops, there!). There's also a neat mountainside meditation center that I visited, with great views, monkees and birds everywhere, killer vegitarian food and utterly bizarre meditation rituals. I think it's called Samasati. Worth an overnight even if you're not New Agey at all.
Annapolis, Md.: Traveling picnic. When on our honeymoon in Cabo, my husband and I went to the local tortelleria each morning for fresh tortillas, then to the grocer for fresh avocados and tomatoes. Then we would board a little ferry boat out to the little islands and beaches, where we would spend the day sleeping, snorkeling, dirnking beers and sodas bought off the boats of the industrious locals and enjoying the best avocado/tomato soft tacos in the world. I can still taste the creamy goodness of the sunwarmed avocados mixed with the flaky deliciousness of the fresh tortillas. Yum!
Anne McDonough: You just me made very hungry...and I've already had lunch. Thanks a lot.
Washington, DC: Please help! My sister and I are trying to decide between Morocco and Turkey for our trip this summer. We've both travelled extensively in Europe, Central America, the US, and Southern Africa (plus Asia for my sister). We like a mixture of cities, culture, relaxation, and environmental activities. Basically though, we're up for anything and like to explore new places. Which country do you recommend? We'd have about 10-14 days in the beginning of July. Would we be okay travelling around either of these countries as two females who don't speak the language? We're not into the whole tour group thing. Thank you!
Cindy Loose: As to safety issues in Turkey and Morocco, I'd suggest you see what the State Department has to say at www.travel.state.gov.
If their remarks dissuade you from choices A and B--have you considered Eastern Europe? I'm thinking Slovenia, for example, with a cool little capital city and great interesting stuff in the countryside, and you could throw in a nearby country if city, caves, natural spas, rivers, world war II eastern front, lake, castles etc. aren't enough for the time you have.
As to Morocco or Turkey, if you're still deciding between the two, personally I'd pick Turkey. Any other opinions out there?
Alexandria, Va: Best picnic my wife and I ever had on a trip was in Galway, Ireland in 2003. There was a street market going on next to a church, and we bought a loaf of bread and a couple of different kinds of cheeses from a cheesemaker. Then we strolled up to Eyre Square in the center of town and sat on a parkbench and enjoyed a sunny afternoon lunch. The Irish make wonderful cheese.
Anne McDonough: Cheese is one of the best picnic foods ever, unless you happen to be eating outdoors on a hot summer day. But it sounds like you had just the perfect atmosphere for a cheese and bread lunch.
Derwood's Picnic Story: We were driving up the Pacific Coast Hwy back in the days before kids (late 1980s)...started the morning at the Tillamook Cheese factory, where we stocked up on French bread and cheese. Then stopped at a little fisherman's shack in Garibaldi, Oregon and picked up lobster tails for $3 EACH.
Continued up the road, pausing for a nice siesta on Hug Point Beach, and ending up on Long Beach peninsula at the Ore/Wash border in time to haul out our campstove and have lobster, French bread and cheese while admiring a gorgeous sunset. (I got pictures, too!)
We picnic regularly in our travels -- we hit the local stores and find beautiful, leisurely places to snack.
Anne McDonough: Cheese! Cheese and more cheese! I love it.
Washington, D.C.: I've got to agree with Baghdad on this one. I appreciate the stories on Guatemala and the Galapagos, but it seems like when you cover these places its usually the luxury accomodations and staid excursions that get top billing. There are lots of people in this city who don't think twice about packing up for a 2 week vacation in places like Senegal, Suriname, or East Timor. And there's even more of us that travel to these places for work, and try to extend our trips for little mini-vacations in-country. I think we can all figure out how to get to Rome or book a cruise, after all your subscribers are smart people! But we might need some help booking a hotel in rural Laos or finding the best flights to Mauritania.
KC Summers: Another vote for more adventure -- although you're a bit off on the luxury accommodations charge (must be confusing us with the competition). We take great pride in including lodging info in all ranges, whatever the destination. And while it's true that it's easier to research some places than others, we like to provide thorough getting-there info for just about everyplace we write about. We like to make it easy for our readers, whether they're going to Rome or, say, Mauritania.
Worst picnic: A couple of years ago in November, my boyfriend and I went on a hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We brought cheese and bread and wine. My boyfriend was paranoid about park rangers catching us with the wine, so he made us go way off the beaten path up a hill, where we huddled in the dead leaves against a tree and my boyfriend jumped every time something rustled the leaves. Soooo romantic. We're married now, and he's gotten a lot more laid back, but I still tease him about it.
Anne McDonough: Ah, the paranoid picnic. I know this one well. Glad you stuck it out, though. ;)
Downtown Washington, DC: I've had the same thing happen to me on Expedia (price going up dramatically after you try to book the "special deal" -- in one case the tickets went up by $1,000 each) and -only- on Expedia. A couple of times that this has happened to me, I went back and checked the same tickets again several hours later, more than enough time for Expedia to have removed them from the system if seats were no longer available at that price -- and the tickets were still listed at the cheap price. Again, when I filled out all my info and clicked to purchase the tickets, I got the "sorry, the tickets are no longer available at that price" message. That's pretty clearly false advertising to me. They try to suck you in with the low price and then hope that you've invested too much time to change your mind. I don't buy through Expedia any more.
Carol Sottili: I don't know. What kind of person would say, hey I don't mind paying $2,000 more than I was quoted because I've invested a few minutes in researching this trip on Expedia? I think Expedia's software is less sophisticated.
Arlington, Va: Greetings Travel crew:
I have travel plans this Wednesday that involve arriving in HEathrow at 6:55 am on United, then getting a flight on British Airways to CDG at 10:45 am. Does this leave me enough time to get my bag and recheck it for the second flight? Would love some reassurance or a reality check from you!
Andrea Sachs: Did you book your flights on one ticket? If so, you can check them through to your final destination. If not, there is no way to guarantee that your bag--or even you--will make your Paris flight. But that is a lot of time, and Standsted is not too large of any airport. To map out a plan of action, check out Stansted's airport on its Web site (www.stanstedairport.com)--so you can see where your gates are in relation to baggage claim, etc.
Another idea: Anyway you can go carry-on only?
Can you move frequent flier miles from one airline's program to another? Specifics: I have 24k miles on Northwest and 15k on Alaska, both airlines I used a lot when I lived elsewhere but have no need/desire to fly again (I'm premier on United). Can I roll these 2 accounts together somewhere, even a thirs airline like Continental or American?thanks!
Cindy Loose: Sorry, you can't. However, how about buying some miles to add to what you have to make a whole ticket. You can buy miles in increments of 1,000, and you only need 1,000 to add to the Northwest miles you have. In otherwords, get rid of the miles by taking a flight.
Bowie, Md: To baseball man: is there ANYWHERE that hot dogs aren't outrageous?
Bruce Adams: Me, I'm not a hot dog guy. But this is America and people feel it is their patriotic duty to eat hot dogs at baseball games. Happily, most major and minor league ballparks have a wide range of food choices these days. The fancy new ballparks are built to be able to provide better and more diverse food choices The old food services facilities are the problem at RFK). Stay away from Dodger Dogs and Fenway Franks. But now even in old Fenway there is a terrific clam chowder.
Lancaster, Pa: Travel-picnic story - when my husband and I were traveling in Italy last fall, we stayed for a week in Umbria in a lovely old farmhouse apartment in Campello Alto - the view was incredible!! Miles and miles of nothing but forests and olive groves - with Spoleto off in the distance. We sat every evening with a picnic out on the patio or in the olive groves - sometimes just some antipasti, other times a simple meal of pasta - and of course, plenty of the local wine from the wineries we'd been to that week... it was amazing! We figured the view from there was better than going to any restaurant... plus, since we were on the side of a mountain, it was much easier than maneuvering through those white-knuckle tiny Italian country roads at night!!!
Anne McDonough: And without the drive you're free to drink as much of that local wine as you like. Perfecto.
Alexandria, Va: Hi Flight Crew. I have to attend a wedding in Baton Rouge late June. But when I ran web ticket search engine, the lowest fare I could find for a weekend departure from Washington Area airports to Baton Rouge was in mid to upper $300. Do you have any recommendation on the less expensive combination of getting there. I don't mind renting a car from a nearby city with more major hub, as long as it saves me some dollar. Thank you
Cindy Loose: Hi--Not always, but often tickets to New Orleans are cheaper, and the drive from N.O airport to Baton Rouge is between an hour and 90 min, depending on traffic.
Good thinking--and good luck. High 300s is rather high for Baton Rouge--the cheapest it gets is about high 200s, though.
Washington, D.C.: I'm thinking about taking a weekend camping trip to the beach in mid-May, but can't decide between Assateague or Janes Island. I have never been to either one. Any advice or suggestions? Thanks! (oh, and love the chats!)
Steve Hendrix: Assateague is very easy, very popular and lovely. Pull-in campgrounds and curated nature trails. Janes is much more remote and wild (and buggier, reportedly). We'll try to link to an Escapes column we did on Janes in 2002.
washingtonpost.com: washingtonpost.com:Plain Janes , (June 12, 2002)
Steve Hendrix: Here's a bit more about camping on Janes Island.
Love the chats. I'm headed to Atlanta toward the end of the week. I'm definitely hitting up the new Aquarium (already have my tix!). Anything else new or exciting there to see or eat?
John Deiner: Hey, AB. Good for you on the aquarium...we hear nothing but praise. As far as other new and exciting ideas: Clicksters?
Washington DC: How can you have someone on like Andrea who doesn't know anything about the procedures of traveling between EU countries? This is basic, basic stuff. That misinformation she handed out is very troubling.
Andrea Sachs: Okay, so to put this matter to rest: First, my information is based on my own travel experiences, plus I asked some other veteran travelers. However, I have just called the European Tourist Office and am awaiting a return call on the subject. My goal to offer accurate information, not to confuse or misinform people.
Washington DC: Wow, I can't believe you all told someone they don't have to go through customs/immigration for just a connection between EU countries. I have traveled multiple times between Dulles and Lisbon with KLM and had to go through both at Amsterdam's Schipol Airport. In fact, that was the only place my passport was stamped even though I was not stopping in the Netherlands. Perhaps it varies, but I believe often people have to go through the formalities the moment they hit "Schengen" space, ie. enter the EU countries that are part of the Schengen Accords. So the connection time the person got could be wildly too little.
Andrea Sachs: More on EU travel.
Adams Morgan, Washington, DC: My husband and son are going to a Cardinals game next week in the new stadium in St. Louis. Could you tell us about the stadium and what not to miss?
Bruce Adams: First, get there early and take your time walking around the ballpark before you go in. Check-out the remains of the old Busch Stadium. Look at the plaques that ring the new ballpark commemorating the 100 greatest moments of Cardinals baseball. Take your son's photo in front of the statue of Stan The Man Musial at Gate 3 along Eighth Street. Walk all the way to the top behind home plate for the best view of the Arch, the old courthouse, and the hole that was once Busch Stadium. About 15 minutes before game time head out to the bleachers and watch one of the satarting pitchers warmup. You can hang right over the bullpen. Don't miss the old scoreboards from Busch on the inside concourse.
Marbury, Md: Best picnic - We took my stepson to the park at Niagara-on-the Lake to run off excess energy. A group was finishing up a picnic and invited us to come over and have some leftover hotdogs and give my stepson some other kids to play with. It turns out that the group of Canadians we were talking to had relatives that lived not far from us!
Anne McDonough: Have to say that leftover hotdogs wouldn't float my boat but I love the personal connection you made over them.
Alexandria, Va: Have you ever done or would consider doing a story about travelling to meet a spouse or significant other who is deployed through the military when they get R&R overseas.
Cindy Loose: Actually, we've talked about that and think it's a cool idea, but need first to find such a couple that wouldn't mind being shadowed. If you know one, or where to find one, let us know. (If you know such a couple and they're meeting up in Hawaii, email loosec@washpost.com. If you know someone meeting up for R&R in, say, Oklahoma or Mississippi, contact one of my colleagues.)
In need of travel help!!: I will be in London for a wedding in the end of Novemeber. We would like to leave London as soon as the wedding is over to go somewhere else in Europe. We are looking though for somewhere that will be warm and possibly have a beach. Any suggestions?
Gary Lee: At the end of November there is, in my experience no place in Europe that's going to have guaranteed beach weather. In general, I would think in terms of southern Spain or southern Italy. We have been in both these places in November and had great, sunny weather. But these days, with the climate changing so much, it's very risky to book a trip with a certain weather expectation.
To baseball guy: So, what's the best park for food?
Bruce Adams: San Francisco in the majors. San Antonio in the minors. Eat your way across America this summer!
Travel Section Lover: Just wanted to share my two cents on the Post Travel Section. It's the first section I reach for on Sundays and while some weeks, the main articles are not for me, I always read it all. Worst case, if I have a specific question I want addressed, I can use the chat on Mondays!
As for the comment on the cruise stories, I did remark to my friend yesterday that I'm surprised at how often cruising appears in the Travel section, since it's not something I think of doing often. But I just figured that there are readers out there who prefer to cruise and find that information very valuable.
Also, I was actually in Argentina when the story about ex-pats in Buenos Aires ran. I read it upon my return and it made me want to go back immediately! Thanks for all of the great stories and chats. You definitely have my appreciation!!
KC Summers: Thanks for the kind words, TSL. Not that I don't want to keep the backpackers happy, but as I said, it's all about balance. I am surprised that you think we do a lot of cruise stuff though, because I always feel guilty that we don't do enough for the cruisers out there! But I guess when you consider CoGo and the Deals column, we do get the word out.
Babymooner from last week. We have decided to use our Airtran vouchers to go to Grand Bahama, we think. However, I am not loving Grand Bahama - everything I read/see makes it look like Ocean City in the Caribbean. Is this true? It seems as though the only nice/non-trashy/touristy places are $600/night. If it is true, is there a way to get from Grand Bahama to the out islands? And do you recommend one out island over another?
We are looking for relaxation, low-stress, nice rooms, good beaches. Golf would be cool, not necessary. Any help you can offer would be great! Thanks! You all rock!
Carol Sottili: Hey, Ocean City isn't trashy. It's got great restaurants, night life, lovely beach, boardwalk, etc. But if you want to be one of those Kiawah Island/Outer Banks snobs (warning - no evil emails - I am kidding), the Out Islands are an option. Go to www.myoutislands.com for lots of info about the different island personalities. There are also plenty of nice resorts in Grand Bahama, including a Westin and a Sheraton.
About Victoria BC: We are lucky enough to have a vacation home there in Victoria. Ferries are great, very little chance of seasickness. Go to Butchard gardens for fabulous flowers, eat at Tapas Bar or Black Olive or Ferris' oyster bar. Breakfast at Willie's...amazing. Lots of kayaking opportunities, sailing, good shopping in the downtown, museums. I love it!
John Deiner: GREAT stuff...thanks for the info. And Butchart Gardens really is an amazing place.
Best travel picnic: Last trip before baby came, hubby and I went to grand canyon and we ordered a fruit tray at the hotel. The next morning, we packed up the fruit and ate it while watching the sun rise over the grand canyon.
Anne McDonough: Breakfast with a view: Delish.
London Layover Again: Help! Thanks for your wonderful advice about getting between Hethrow and Stansted - however, I just found out that I'm actually flying out of Gatwick. Is there another train that runs from there into the city?
Andrea Sachs: Yes, there is. The National Express coach and the train travel that route, but allow yourself a lot of commute time. For the specifics, see www.stanstedairport.com, under traveling between airports.
Bethesda, Md: Do you have any idea what would be considered a reasonable rate to rent a Jeep in Hawaii for five days? At a quick glance, I was quoted $450.00. That seems a little high. Any ideas? Thanks!
Cindy Loose: Actually, jeep rentals tend to be high, so I'm not surprised by anything less than $100 a day. You might be able to find some little local joint, but if so, the jeeps might be kind of rickety--you'd want to shop around and ask good questions, like how old is the jeep if it's cheaper than the going rate.
Are you there just five days? If so, you probably won't use the jeep much every day. Why not plan a couple days when you'll be enjoying the beach, walkable or busable activities or tours that include transportation, and rent the jeep only for the days you'll be using it for a signficant portion of the day.
re: price not available: I was having a huge problem with this recently, also. It happened over and over again on Expedia, Orbitz, Travelocity, Kayak for over a week. I'd do a search for my flight, then when I'd try to buy, get the fare not available notice. But when I repeated the search, I got the same fare I'd originally "found". As I said, this repeated for about a week; I was looking for washington to rome, I'd find flights in the $900 range, only to have the price increase to the $1600 range when I tried to buy (and I'm not talking about added taxes, etc driving up the price. I mean $900 with taxes and fees suddenly becomeing $1600 with taxes and fees). I understand sometimes a fare sells out, but the same fare shouldn't then show up on searches the next day, and the next, and the next, only to be sold out again. Like I said, it was happening on all the sites. I finally gave up and had to search airlines individually. I haven't had this happen before. While, yes, I've occasionally "lost" a fare between searching and buying, I've never lost basically the same fare over and over again. Something unusual was definitely going on, I think. Sounds like Arlington experienced the same problem (fare still coming up on a search, despite already being told not available). Whatever this problem it, these travel sites need to get it fixed, because it made it impossible to actually compare fares/schedules to pick a flight I wanted. Which is sort of the whole point of using those sites. Like I said, I also wound up purchasing direct from the airline, when I usually buy from orbitz or travelocity, so someone lost my business there.
Carol Sottili: I have had the same thing happen on many of the airline sites. I guess there could be some incredible conspiracy to suck everyone in with cheap fares, and then hit them up with higher fares, but I don't think so. I often get the fares that are advertised. And I do a lot of searching for the "What's the Deal?" column. I have told readers for a very long time now to check the major third-party vendors, but to always go to the airlines directly to make sure they are getting the cheapest fares.
Morocco or Turkey: I've been to both places, and I would definitely say Turkey. You have many more options - Istanbul vs. coast, city vs. resorts, history vs art, nightlife vs. complete relaxation, beaches, etc. The infrastructure is much better, and the hotels we stayed at were in great condition, not to mention the friendly people. In June it is also a little bit more bearable than Morocco.
Cindy Loose: Someone seconds my vote for Turkey....
SF Union Square hotels: The Andrews Hotel is a very clean, pleasant, civilized little hotel 2 blocks from Union Square. In March I paid $79/night (incl. free breakfast); no prepayment necessary. The Chancellor Hotel is right on Powell St. - excellent service, very high housekeeping standards. Sometimes you can get a rate as low as $100/night. You should check for the best web rates, then call the hotel and ask a manager to match or beat those rates - this approach has tended to work well for me.
Cindy Loose: A second option for San Francisco---thanks.........
NW Washington, DC: I think you devote far too much to the snobby-esoteric traveler. I Love Vegas, Disney, Cruises, and Water Parks, and I feel like all I ever see in your section is vegan treks to antique kung-fu monasteries in the Southern Maldives.
In all seriousness, I think you over-report on pseudo-exotic Euro/Asian/foreign destinations, and not enough on the places where most people really go.
So maybe you're getting the mix right.
KC Summers: Okay, this is getting to be like that fable about the guy who was walking along with his donkey and trying to please all the commentators along the way -- actually I forget how it ended (did the guy die trying to carry the donkey?!) but I think the moral was to thine own self be true, or whatever. But we do appreciate the feedback -- keep it coming, it's seriously helpful. I gotta say, though, that we do cover Vegas and the theme parks plenty!! For example, just a few weeks ago we ran a rollicking Vegas story, about the college boys who spent their spring break carousing.
Arlington, Va: It looks like I will be going to NYC for a few days at the end of July to attend a performance at Lincoln Center and another concert at a small club. Hotels are not cheap...most in the $200-300/night range. I know this comes up all the time, but any suggestion for finding a decent place at a price that won't break the bank?
Anne McDonough: You're asking at just the right time...our New York issue, running this coming Sunday (May 7) is all about hotels...and we'll have lists of hotels which we found for under $200 before tax. I'd say check orbitz, expedia, quikbook, hotels.com, sidestep. One hotel that consistently comes up under $200 on the West Side, perfect for shooting down to Lincoln Center, is the Hotel Newton on W. 95th. It's not a boutique hotel, not fancy at all, but it's a good deal, the folks are really nice and I think being on the Upper West Side is a great idea.
Washington, D.C.: On side trips from Amsterdam, when I visited the Netherlands, I found the parts that were not Amsterdam to be much more enjoyable than Amsterdam itself. I especially loved Leiden (we biked there from the Hague - beautiful!), and for something completely different, visit the DeltaWorks (there's a visitor center) and see the absurd things the Dutch do to keep their country out of the ocean.
Gary Lee: Hey, neat suggestions!
Bethesda, Md.: My family and I are big fans of the Baysox stadium - it's great - great prices, great food, kids can meet the players, etc. How does it compare to other minor lague stadiums and do you have a top three if we were going to try to visit some others?
Bruce Adams: The Baysox experience is everything that is great about minor league baseball -- family fun, good food, high quality baseball, entertainment for the kids, right close to home. Our Fodor's Baseball Vacations suggests about 34 different trips. The wildest time we ever had was at the St. Paul Saints in Minnesota. Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen is fantastic. So are the ballparks in Memphis, Asheville (NC), Durham, and San Antonio. Don't forget to come visit our local ballpark in Bethesda this summer -- Shirley Povich Field. www.bigtrain.org
Allentown, Pa: Best picnic ever: Went to an open air market in Bologna, Italy to buy buffalo milk mozzarella for a picnic lunch just as it was closing for the afternoon. The guy behind the counter spoke no English but when he saw we were trying to make a picnic, also sliced up some salami, mortadella and took off a hunk of parmesan. (We didn't ask -- he just offered.) We tried to pay him but he shook his head no and smiled. We grabbed some bread from the next stall and set off for a wonderful meal by a fountain on the campus of the University admist all the red tile roofs.
Anne McDonough: Good food, good spirits and some gratis munchies. In Italy. You're lucky.
Annapolis, Md.: Wow - people need to chill. While this is a very informative chat, if a traveller is savvy enough to find this, they should be savvy enough to know to double check all information. Andrea - you, and everyone, usually give great information and you can only talk about what you know. We still love you even if some angry meanies don't. Thanks for all of your help.
Andrea Sachs: Thanks Annapolis for that boost. Much appreciated.
Gordonsville, Va: Thanks for all the help! I have always heard a rumor that a you can ask to be bumped up to first class at the check in counter, and if there is space they will allow you to do it. Of course I have always been to chicken to try it, but is this for real or just an urban legend. Thanks!
Steve Hendrix: I'm ashamed to admit I try this all the time, Gordonsville. Nothing too unctious, just a cheery disposition and a casual querie about "anything free up front? Ha ha ha ha ha." It's worked exactly twice in 20 years.
Silver Spring, Md: Many years ago, some friends and I took the Trans-Siberian Railroad from Beijing to Moscow. The beginning of the train was all canned and packaged food we had purchased in Beijing. But when we hit Russia, at each train stop, we would get out and there would be Russian women selling whatever fresh produce they had or stuff they had just made. We ate recently boiled potatoes in a paper cone, just picked berries, fresh baked bread. We even got a huge piece of salami at one stop. Whatever was purchased was shared by all. It was the best food I've ever eaten and the most fun.
Anne McDonough: Reveling in fresh food in Russia, and many years ago to boot? That's a novel idea-I'm glad you changed my perception of the food there. Thanks for the story!
Annapolis, Md.: I didn't mean Ocean City was trashy - but I don't wnat to fly all the way to the bahamas for an experience I could have 2 hours by car. I want something different, something islandy! That said, I'll check out that website. How easy or hard is it to travel from GB to the Out Islands?
Carol Sottili: I forgive you. You will find that Grand Bahama and Ocean City are two very different places (I don't think they have a biker's weekend in Freeport, for example). But the smaller islands are more laid back, and better for those who just want to fish or chill. Transportion varies depending on island. The Web site has good transportation details.
Speaking of Sin City: I'm a Vegas novice, but would like to go there over Christmas. Is that a slow or busy time there? Any recommendations for travel advice, specials, etc. to Las Vegas? Thansk.
John Deiner: Here's my best shot at this one: Christmas Day and Eve and the days leading up to it after Thanksgiving are deadly quiet. But if you go past Christmas toward New Year's and, uh, all bets are off. Very expensive, very crowded.
As far as specials and deals go, just book as early as possible when it comes to rooms, and check hotel Websites closer to your trip time to see if there are any special deals. For instance, Venetian often lowers the prices of suites just a month or so out, so if you booked through the hotel, you can cancel and get the cheaper rates. Likewise, lots of the bigger properties often have spa packages that surface just a month or so before the day of travel.
Washington, DC: Hi there, Love your chats!!!
I'm traveling to Phoenix on Friday for a business trip and have all day Saturday to sightsee. I'm renting a car and was wondering what you would recommend I not miss. I wanted to go hiking but since its 100 degrees there, thought maybe not. What can I do? Any restaurant recommendations also? Thanks.
Steve Hendrix: No Phoenix experts here, WDC (My advise would be to zoom up to Flagstaff, a great little town. But that's too far for a day trip).
But let's throw this out. Pheonix experts? Act fast?
Picnic: My favorite picnic didn't require a lot of travel. My wife and I bought a bunch of Lebanese food and spent our 1-year anniversary at the National Arboretum in NE DC. It was gorgeous there, and so quiet...
Anne McDonough: I have to get there one of these days. Next vacation, I say.
Indecision, Va: I am having a dilemma planning my honeymoon, which will be in October for 2-2.5 weeks. We had been going back and forth between Italy and New Zealand, but decided Italy seemed more romantic. We love to follow our stomachs, drink wine, hike, that sort of thing. But on a limited budget, the exchange rate with the Euro really hurts us. So, I'm second guessing our decision. I lived in NZ a while back and I would love to go there again and that exchange rate is in our favor. Even though the airfare is more expensive, we'd still have more spending money (sure, some things might be more expensive, but that seems true in Italy too). We could certainly hike, eat good food and drink there too. Anyway, is it worth scrapping my plans to Italy because of the exchange rate. Or in the end, will the costs pretty much be the same. If it matters, my fiance has never been to NZ and neither of us has been to Italy. Thanks for any suggestions that might help me make up my mind.
Cindy Loose: That's a tough but lovely decision. I think the question might help answer itself if you actually sit down and price options. So choose a site like expedia or orbitz or travelocity and get a real and actual price for airfare, then do the same for hotels. That way you're not guessing, but have actual numbers as a guide.
Let me take a wild guess: I'm guessing the difference won't be as big as you think.
If that's true, then do another test: what would it cost in lodging and transporation in you spend one of your weeks in Italy, and then saved some money by spending one of your weeks next door in Slovenia.
another baseball question: my husband and I are both HUGE baseball fans. While we'd
love to go to fenway, selling our souls for tickets isn't
really in the cards. Are there any other "must see" of the
old parks besides Fenway and Wrigley? He was lucky
enough to spend every summer at Tiger Stadium as a kid.
Bruce Adams: Wrigley and Fenway are the best (in that order!). There are more of the old parks left in the minor leagues. McCormick Field in Ashville is a modern upgrade on historic grounds. The old Bull Durham Park of movie fame is still in use. Rickwood Field in Birmingham has been carefully restored.
Arlington, Va: Just an observation about choosing a carry-on -- maybe you should think about its effect on other passengers. I've hated flying the past five years or so because of the obnoxiously huge carry-ons that people lug on board and then cram into the overhead bin, meaning I have to hustle to get onto the plane as soon as I'm allowed to, or I risk not being able to fit my reasonably sized backpack in the overhead, which means it has to be checked, which it is not suited for (meanwhile, the rude people with their gigantic, sturdy, wheeled bags that could easily be checked get to keep their monstrosities in the overhead bin), or I have to sit on top of it. I recently was in Australia, and we were on a full domestic flight. I was nervous about being able to fit our carry-ons -- they had a limit for checked bags, so we had to carry-on more than we would have liked to. But everyone else on the plane had small bags (when they had carry-ons at all). And they were polite and patient and helpful with moving their bags to make room for people who needed space, and as a result, there was plenty of room for everyone's bags. It's becoming a cliche to say it, but American airlines and passengers seem to go out of their way to make the flying experience unpleasant when it doesn't have to be. I'd love to see airlines actually enforce their carry-on standards for a change (of course, they'd also have to do a better job of not losing checked bags so that people wouldn't feel the need to carry everything on). In the meantime, perhaps readers of this chat could make their own resolutions to use bags that don't take up more than their fair share of space and maybe pay a little more attention to how their bag is situated in the overhead bin and if maybe it could be moved a bit to accommodate someone else who needs space.
KC Summers: Amen, Arlington. Even though I'm a diehard carry-onner, I always make sure my bag is a true carry-on, under 20 inches, and that I can lift it into the bin, and I don't take up more than my fair space. Wish everyone thought the same -- and I agree that the system would work a whole lot better if the airlines enforced their own rules.
Did you see our CoGo item a couple of weeks ago about the poor student who was forced to check her carry-on and got her laptop stolen? I wish the flight attendants on that flight had observed the passengers when they got on and made sure they weren't over the limit. But it wouldn't have been a problem if the passengers hadn't been hogs in the first place.
Washington, DC: European PAssport formalities--I just got back from eastern Europe, transferring in Amsterdam. No passport check on the way over; just got off the plane and had to find my gate for the connecting flight. On the way back, our passports were looked at but not stamped as we got off the plane (in AMS); again, just had to find my connecting gate. This was in March.
Andrea Sachs: Thanks for the report from the frontline.
Washington, DC: Picnic Story: Many years ago we were traveling to South Dakota to visit family. We stopped at a rest area in Wisconsin with our 2 young boys (2,1) for lunch and to let them run around. We had just started eating and suddenly there were hundreds of motorcycles with Hell's Angel types going by. Many started to come into the rest area. I was quite nervous and wanted to leave but my hubby said don''t worry. Quickly the other families packed up and left. I was even more nervous at this point. After talking to some who sat near us we found out they were going to Madison, the capital to protest the helmet laws. My boys were so excited to see the parade of motorcycles.
Steve Hendrix: And then? And then? Did you fight your way out Kung Fu style? We'll assume you did.
Are you aware of any organizations, clubs, and/or websites which offer discount travel fares/packages for college professors?
Cindy Loose: Not sure, but have you checked the STA, the student travel association, which at least used to include teachers/professors. If they don't still do it, they probably will know who does.
Less Europe!: Yes! More Africa, more Asia! Seriously though, some articles on Europe are good, and even useful, but in this day and age most of Europe isn't too hard to figure out. There's nothing all that different about spending a week in London, than spending a week in NYC or SanFran (except of course for the fabulous accents). I would read the section far more religiously if it covered more interesting places.
KC Summers: Okay, thanks. I can guarantee you, though, that if we start running stories about more exotic places, we'll get creamed by the "real people" folks.
College Park, Md: Here's a baseball stadium one... I'm travelling to CT in June and will have some free time. Would love to catch a minor league game. Any suggestions?
Bruce Adams: Lots of choices in Connecticut -- you'll have the most fun in Bridgeport where the Bluefish play an independent brand of minor league baseball. Babe Ruth played at Yale Field and so did Bush I. New Britain has the Rock Cats and Norwich has the Navigators.
Washington, D.C.: Are there travel sites that let you find the best bargins based on a date range without putting in a particular destination?
Cindy Loose: Not exactly that, but places like smarterliving.com do let you know about bargains, and in that sense perform a service similar to what you seek.
washingtonpost.com: For Phoenix: Pizzeria Bianco, for some of the best pizza in the US. Last Chance, the Nordstrom's outlet to-die for. NOT KIDDING. Get a massage through the folks at At One Yoga.
Steve Hendrix: Here ya go, Phoenix-bound. Straight from the Mistress of All Foods herself, Kim O'donnel.
Sicilian Picnic: Last December, on a whim, a girlfriend and I took off from Florence for three days in northwest Sicily. While visiting Marsala, we stopped at a bar, drank some espresso, and picked up two arancine (rice balls stuffed with meat ragu that have been breaded and fried) to serve as lunch later in the day. The woman at the bar insisted we go to island of Mozia to see the Phoenician settlement. We drove the short distance up the coast, caught the boat to the island, and discovered that we were the only two visitors. It was a gloriously sunny day so after treking around the island, we found ourselves sitting at the boat launch, snacking on our arancine, looking back at the salt marshes separating us from Sicily. When we signaled we were ready to go, the staff closed the museum, shut down the island, and took the boat back with us. It was amazing!
Anne McDonough: Adventure spawned from a chance lunch encounter: Lovely
Love the chats! My boyfriend and I are heading to Mumbai in early June for a wedding with 6 days of sightseeing around the wedding. Knowing that 6 days is not a lot of time and June is incredibly hot in the plains, would you suggest doing the Golden Triangle (Delhi - Agra - Jaipur) or heading off to the hill station in Shimla for that time (or even both)? Should we consider Goa? Thanks!
Anne McDonough: Eek. That' not a lot of time. I'd say maybe someplace in Kerala, or go to Agra and Varansi, but skip Delhi. But that's lot of travel for six days.
Fairfax, Va: (Submitted in advance) Okay, so what if Mom LIKES brunch? We'll be in NYC on M-day. Do you have any suggestions for brunch around the southern tip of Central Park? (Not Sarabeth's please. We find it a bit uneven.)
KC Summers: Okay, we've got some good suggestions but you're going to have to forget about Central Park (which means Tavern on the Green -- not a good bet, imho). Balthazar, in SoHo, is a fabulous French bistro and has a great brunch, and Barney Greengrass on the Upper West Side is pure fun and real NY. Kitchenette, up near Columbia University, is down-home and wonderful. For more brunch ideas, go to our free travel archives at www.wshingtonpost.com/travel and look under National destinations, then NY.
19th & K St., Washington, D.C.: For the baseball guy:
First, I'd like to do a great summer baseball roadtrip, hitting all the California parks. That said, it's almost impossible to get all of them in a week or week and a half, someone is sure to be out of town. If I have to miss one from SF or OAK, and one of LAA and LAD, which ones do I skip?
Also, any good suggestions on great books about baseball roadtrips? I'm thinking of the travel stories of following a team for a summer or something.
Bruce Adams: There are a dozen minor league teams in California. I'd recommend San Bernardino and Sacramento. You need to see San Francisco, the best of the modern parks (yes, even better than Camden Yards). New parks to see in San Diego and Seattle (if you can stretch your trip up the coast). Every ball fan needs to go to Dodger Stadium. So I'd skip the Anaheim and Oakland. Try our Fodor's Baseball Vacations for an overview of more than 100 ballparks around the country.
Anne McDonough: Thanks, all, for chiming in today with such great questions, chides, compliments and all. The prize today goes out to the folks who happened upon the clothing-optional bunch and still managed to enjoy their picnic. Send your info to travel@washpost.com and we'll get those things out to you. Thanks all--Check us out on Sunday in print and on-line and then join us next Monday to dish all about New York hotels.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post Travel editors and writers take your questions and comments every Monday at 2 p.m. ET.
| 977 | 0.777778 | 1 |
high
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042800717.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050419id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/28/AR2006042800717.html
|
Still Hungry? The Dish on Six Beijing Restaurants
|
2006050419
|
I left for China a runner. I returned a Teletubby.
Holding tightly to the philosophy that the truest way to see a place is to eat your way through it, I packed on 25 pounds as an undergrad abroad in 1999. And while that initial feat remains unmatched, each of three extended trips to China over the following six years, including a visit last fall, translated to at least eight pounds on the scale. Chinese food in China is good, to put it mildly.
That's perhaps not the experience of folks on packaged tours, where meals often consist of banquet food poorly adjusted for Western tastes. But even the most programmed tour gives its participants an afternoon or evening to walk around and explore night markets -- which offer tofu-on-a-stick and slightly sweetened popcorn -- and discover no-name storefronts serving up bowls of lamian, freshly pulled noodles swimming in broth. I have never had anything less than a stellar meal at these family-run joints, all for usually less than $3 a person. With beer.
For those don't speak Chinese or enjoy pantomiming -- and who'd like a restaurant with a clean floor -- here are six Beijing haunts offering English menus that showcase a variety of Chinese food. The city is increasingly fashionable these days, but I've found that backpackers and one-outfit travelers are welcome at even the fanciest restaurants. Also, menus and prices tend to stay the same for both lunch and dinner.
If cabbing it, have your concierge write down the name and address of the restaurant in Chinese on the hotel's card and give it to your driver.
Order like a glutton, pay like a pauper at the magnificent Yu Xin, where a long room filled with booths, private nooks and a gazebo-like table (complete with faux foliage) provides the backdrop for some of the city's most authentic Sichuan cuisine. As is standard in China, dishes arrive in a constant stream, served as soon as they are prepared. We mixed small cold dishes, such as sesame and dried bean curd (75 cents) and mashed garlic and cucumber (25 cents), with generous portions of eggplant in chili sauce ($2), roll of yolk and duck meat ($2.25), toffee sweet potatoes ($3.10) and mantou , fried buns served with condensed milk ($2). The bullfrog cooked with pao peppers ($7.20) is what keeps folks coming back.
$12 for two, including beer. Yu Xin (011-86-10-6415-8168) is at 5A Xingfu Yicun Xili, Chaoyang District. Nearest metro: Dongsishitiao.
Din Tai Fung, an offshoot of the slick Taiwan enterprise, offers signature dumplings that should by all appearances spew hot liquid when picked up by chopsticks. But somehow the thin-skinned, pork-filled xiaolongbao ($4.40 for 10) explode only after entering your mouth. Other menu standouts include vegetable dumplings ($3.70 for 10), sauteed green vegetables ($3.10), fried rice with egg ($2.40) and noodles with sesame sauce ($2.40). Finish with the delectable steamed mashed red bean buns ($3.40 for 10). And if you run into a wait at this perennially popular place, there's entertainment: The glassed-in kitchen offers a look at the nimble-fingered chefs wrapping dumplings.
$15 for two, including beer. Din Tai Fung (011-86-10-6462-4502) is at 22 Hujiayuan, Dongcheng District. Nearest metro: Dongzhimen.
|
For those who don't speak Chinese or enjoy pantomiming, here are six Beijing restaurants offering English menus that showcase a variety of Chinese food.
| 23.166667 | 0.866667 | 6.2 |
medium
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/27/DI2006042701282.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/27/DI2006042701282.html
|
High-Society Humor
|
2006050119
|
Join Plum Sykes, contributing editor at Vogue, author of "Bergdorf Blondes" and the just-published "The Debutante Divorcee" to discuss privilege, fashion and whether life goes on after divorce.
The Oxford-educated author of "Bergdorf Blondes," Plum Sykes, was online to talk about her new book, "The Debutante Divorcee" Tuesday, May 2, at 11 a.m. ET.
washingtonpost.com: Hi, Everyone, Welcome to our discussion this wonderful spring morning. We're delighted to have Plum Sykes with us to discuss her new book, "The Debutante Divorcee," and matters of fashion.
Fairfax, Va.: Who's your favorite designer these days?
Plum Sykes: Alexander McQueen. Love.
Washington, D.C.: What's your favorite restaurant in New York? In London?
Plum Sykes: St. Ambrose-New York Annabel's-London
Bethesda, MD: So, is it really a glam job working at Vogue?
Plum Sykes: Yes. But it is hard work.
Washington, D.C.: Just wanted to say that I loved the part in Bergdorf Blondes when the heroine thinks her friend has arranged a psychiatrist visit and she winds up in a dermatologist's office. Very funny.
Plum Sykes: It is on of my favorite anecdotes too.
Leesburg, Va.: Have you read Wendy Wasserstein's book, "Elements of Style?" I was a big fan and am so sorry she passed away.
Plum Sykes: Haven't read it but I'm planning to.
Washington, D.C.: What is your favorite style for this spring and summer?
Chevy Chase, D.C.: Plum, Do you have a fashion pet peeve? What is it?
Plum Sykes: Russian women wearing too much Vercace.
Newport, R.I.: Are you working on a new book now? Can you tell us what it's about?
Plum Sykes: I am working on the idea for a new book but when it is at this early stage, I feel like it is better not to tell everyone about it. I prefer to tell you about it in two years when it is done.
London, U.K.: How did you get your inspiration for this book?
Plum Sykes: When I was out in New York for the past couple of years and would see these girls partying harder than Lindsay Lohan and they always seemed to have got divorced yesterday. They were so young and having so much fun that I just thought Debutante Divorcee.
Vienna, Va.: Who's your favorite author? Have you read all of Jane Austen?
Plum Sykes: Yes, I have read all of Jane Austen many times I have lots of favorite authors, including Edith Wharton, Oscar Wilde, Evelyn Waugh, and Jay McInerney.
New York, N.Y.: Did you study fashion in London before coming to the States? Why did you decide to move here and then move back? Are you still spending a lot of time in New York?
Plum Sykes: No, I studied modern history at Oxford then I worked for British Vogue. And then I got offered a job in America with American Vogue. I came to America because it is the center of media in the world and the opportunites for writing are much greater than in Europe where we do not have a single English speaking market. It is very difficult to make a living as a writer in the U.K. which is a tiny country so America is the obvious move. I moved temporarily back to the U.K. to write my first novel, Bergdorf Blondes and met my future husband in Paris during that time. So now we live between New York City and London so we can both pursue our careers.
New York, N.Y.: Since you commute between New York and London, you must be on a plane fairly frequently? Have any beauty tips for frequent travelers?
Plum Sykes: My beauty tip for frequent travelers is to travel less frequently!
Greenwich, Conn.: Since you work at Vogue, you must be constantly bombarded by a raft of beauty products. Are there any new ones out there that you especially like?
Plum Sykes: I get sent a lot of so-called miracle creams that promise to deliver the world. Most of it is junk and I don't recommend spending a fortune on beauty products. Maybeline mascara does the job just as well as Yves St. Laurent.
New designers?: I would love to see Vogue be a little more visionary in the fashion spreads and write-ups. It seems that the fashion editors are resting on their laurels, only using what the major designers' PR reps send over and not searching for the new, the different, the visionary. Thoughts?
Plum Sykes: All the editors at Vogue are desperately looking for the new visionary designers. The truth is that it is very difficult to find brand new, young designers who are really talented enough to be called visionaries. There are only a handful who come through in every decade. The young designers that you see in all of the other magazines such as Proenza and Zac Posen were all champoined in Vogue long before they were championed anywhere else. Anna Wintour is the only editor I've ever heard of who has established a fashion fund specifically to help young designers.
Bethesda, Md.: I'm going to Milan in the middle of June -- have any suggestions beyond the usual suspects of where I should go shop and eat??
Plum Sykes: I lived in Milan for a while in my early twenties and I love the coffee bars selling delicious paninos. I always recommend in Paris or Milan to stay away from streets like via Spiga and head towards the winding back streets where you can find really original botiques.
Washington, D.C.: I loved Bergdorf Blondes and am eagerly anticipating your second offering. I just finished "The Devil Wears Prada." I know your experience with Anna Wintour stands in stark contrast to that author. Can you speak to your thoughts about that book? I'm not asking you to get personal, just to comment on the book itself.
Plum Sykes: I never read the book. Since I already worked at Vogue, It didn't seem interesting to me to read about office politics in an office that I was already in.
Washington, D.C.: Ms. Sykes, what a delightful surprise to see you online this AM! Long-time Vogue subscriber and a big fan of your work. I've read excerpts of your new book online already and am looking forward to getting a copy. This is an odd sort of question, but I guess I'd like to ask you what it is like for you, being a part of such a small, rarified section of society. You seem to have a bemused attitude about it all. As opposed to, say, Gigi Grazier, a perhaps similar writer who seems to feel more oppressed by her social status. Do you at times feel similar pressures or is it not an apt comparison?
Plum Sykes: I would say that I have great access to a certain sect in New York but am not strictly, being British, a fully paid up member. It is much easier to report on and see the funny side in a social scene when you are a foreigner. The snobbery and siliness seems funny rather than oppressive because it is not really my world.
Washington, D.C.: I'm sort of appalled that leggings are going to be back in style for fall. What do you think of this trend?
Plum Sykes: I'm also appalled and according to me, they are not back in style.
Washington, D.C.: Original poster here re: The Devil Wears Prada. That was a great answer -- makes perfect sense to me. If it is in any way accurate about working at Vogue, I don't envy you. It was exhausting just to read the book. Next question: did you ever live the lifestyle of the girls in your novels? The fancy clothes and parties, the trust funds?
Plum Sykes: Rather than living the lifestyle, I watched it from close up. Working at Vogue gave me great access to the society girls in New York who I reported on constantly. I also have to admit to borrowing several very pretty dresses from fashion designers, but sadly, there is no trust fund!
Bergdorf Blondes: My favorite line in your novel was when he says to her something like, "It was like you were made just for me." That struck me as a line inspired by something personal. Can you speak to that?
Plum Sykes: All books have to be personal otherwise they don't resonate with the reader. I don't remember anyone saying that particular line to me and it may be that I borrowed the line off of a friend becauase I do take inspiration from lots of different people from my books.
Washington, D.C.: So, who parties more? Lindsay Lohan or Kate Moss.
Plum Sykes: I think it is probably a tie.
Plum Sykes: Thank you all for your great questions. I really enjoyed meeting you. Love, Plum
|
Vogue contributing editor Plum Sykes, author of "Bergdorf Blondes" and the new "The Debutante Divorcee" discussed New York society, fashion and style.
| 61.413793 | 0.965517 | 4.206897 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801213.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801213.html
|
Metro: Roads and Rails
|
2006050119
|
Do you think Metro has grown unreliable and become downright unpleasant? Or are you happy with your commutes on rail and bus? Does the thought of the intercounty connector (ICC) keep you up at night or does it seem like it's long overdue? And what of the moves by Maryland and Virginia to encourage the private sector to build road projects, such as widening the Capital Beltway?
Washington Post staff writers Steven Ginsberg and Lyndsey Layton were online Monday, May 1, at 11 a.m. ET to answer your questions, feel your pain and share the drama of getting from Point A to Point B.
Steve Ginsberg: What do you say commuters? It's Monday morning and there's hardly any traffic out there. Is everyone skipping out on work because it's so nice or did everyone stay home for the boycott? Meanwhile, gridlock continues abated in the Virginia legislature. And there are loads of questions on high gas prices. So let's get crackin...
Herndon, Va.: In the next few days, the McLearen Road interchange will open on Route 28 in Fairfax County, and next year the Sterling Boulevard interchange will open in Loudoun County.
Now don't get me wrong--I am thrilled to see Route 28 slowly inch its way towards freeway status as an alternate route to the Dulles Greenway (or as my friends and neighbors have christened it, the Dulles Greedway)--but I have major concerns that the pace of progress isn't matching the huge (and growing) volume of traffic on Route 28.
There are still severe traffic light bottlenecks at Frying Pan Road in Fairfax and Innovation Avenue in Loudoun that aren't even -funded- yet for building interchanges--bottlenecks that will only get worse once the McLearen and Sterling exits come online. Do you think that the Route 28 project's reliance on private developer contributions under Virginia's Public-Private Transportation Act is helping or hurting progress on construction?
Steve Ginsberg: Sorry to say that the pace of almost no project is matching the demand in the area. My hunch on whether the private money helps or hurts is that it helps, quite a bit. Virginia has not exactly had a truckload of cash to dump onto projects in the last few years and all kinds of hoped-for changes have been delayed because of a lack of money. Route 28 has had its own problems, but it also has had some success and that gives it at least some hope for more.
South Riding, Va.: It seems that too many people have the attitude, "If you build it, more will come". In reality, more people are already in the DC area than the roads were built to handle. Refusing to build new or widen existing roads will not solve the problem. In the past, politicians have tried to slow down the pace of growth, but it only pushed the growth further out making the problem worse, not better.
If they still refuse to build new roads, then maybe they should consider buying up all of the undeveloped land to prevent new homes from being built in the area. Then buy 10% of the current homes and tear them down.
We need to widen I-66; build Metro to Dulles; create additional Potomac crossings; and to get the government to speed up its efforts to allow government employees and contractors to telecommute.
Steve Ginsberg: More people are coming to the D.C. area for the jobs and despite the traffic. I don't know anyone who moves to an area so they can sit on a highway all day long. Your solution--build everything--mimics that of many political leaders and transportation experts. I think almost everyone would agree that at least some more roads and more transit is needed, but it'd be nice if the region would get together and coordinate its growth better rather than just going with those old-school solutions.
Washington, D.C.: Does Metro consider 55 minutes to be a "minor delay"? For example, on Sunday afternoon when I entered Metro Center a Metro announcement stated that, due to track work, Metro MAY be experiencing MINOR delays on the Red Line. When I heard this I thought there might be a delay of 5-10 minutes, not a problem. I couldn't have been more wrong: 55 minutes later I finally arrived at Union Station. Surely Metro knew that there would be delays, so why say "may," and knew that they would be lengthy delays, so why say "minor." What's the point of making these announcements if they're deceptive or unreliable? I've already given up on Metro for my M-F commutes (I now walk-more reliable than Metro, and doesn't take much more time), and with experiences like this past weekend, I may give up Metro on weekends too. I hope Metro PR will comment.
Fifty-five minutes sure seems pretty major to me and it's no wonder you're thinking about bailing out, after an experience like yesterday's. Riders are understanding when they're given information but angry and alienated when they're kept in the dark.
There have been occasional discussions inside Metro about this issue, about how to define "minor" and "major" delays and about the need to improve the quality of information the agency broadcasts to the public. But nothing seems to change. Maybe Dan Tangherlini, the new guy at the helm of Metro, should put this on his to-do list.
Paris, France: Hi. I am probably a little off topic but I wonder if you could anser a transportaion question. I am in the midst of planning an upcoming trip to the east Coast and one of the problems is that I would like to go from Newark aiport to the Wilmington Delaware area, acutally Newark. Delaware I have been looking at different web sites but I haven't found any solution that doesn't involve changing modes of transportaion. This could become very confusing after a transatlantic flight. Maybe you know if there is a simple solution or if I am wasting time looking for a needle in haystack. If not, maybe you can indicate a Web site that has this sort of information? I guess I could just fly into Philiadelphia but then I am ging to begin my return trip from the NYC area so Newark seems more convenient. Thanks for any help.
Steve Ginsberg: If I read this correctly you are going from Newark (pronounced nourk) New Jersey to Newark (pronounced new-ark) Delaware on a tour de Newark. I assure you there are better places in these great United States to visit! It's true we don't have Paris, but we can do better than a pair of Newarks.
If you're just going as far as Wilmongton, you could take an Amtrak train from the airport. But as far as I know there is no public transportation to Newark Del. You could rent a car at the airport or in Wilmington to get there. Wilmington puts you a lot closer. Anyone else have any ideas for our fellow traveler?
Potomac Ave, Washington, D.C.: I wanted to report a positive experience I had on Metro two weeks ago... I waited for 15 minutes at Potomac Ave for a train to come, but an announcement said that a train was having the dreaded "mechanical difficulties." The next train that came through the station was turned into an "Express Train" and went straight from Potomac Ave. to L'Enfant Plaza to make up for lost time, meaning that I wasn't late because of the prior delay. This seems to be some evidence of positive changes that are taking place under Mr. Tangherlini - keep up the good work!
Lyndsey Layton: OK, let's send a shoutout to the controllers in Metro's operations center, who were fast-thinking and smart in this incident.
Silver Spring, Md.: This issue has infuriated me ever since I moved here from the mass-transit heavy NJ/NY area. I commute to the BWI area every day, and have to first travel 10 miles in the wrong direction to Union Station in order to take mass transit. With the current price of gas where it is, the hassle is getting to be less expensive than the gas, wear and tear. With gas prices going nowhere but up (after all... it's supply and demand, there's nowhere else for them to go... peace in the middle east, if it ever comes, certainly won't change the millions of new automobiles in china and india popping up every day) a move towards mass transit is inevitable. Why then, do elected officials (particularly Montgomery County in my example) both democrats and republicans, choose to throw millions at sprawling, oil burning, highway systems (ICC) while neglecting other decade old transit projects such as the purple line? Within a matter of years the DC/Balto region will be one single metropolis and it's about time the transit system quit looking so D.C.-centric!
Steve Ginsberg: The need to expand mass transit across the suburbs has been identified by transportation planners for some time, and more urgently in recent years. In Virginia, leaders are trying their durndest to build a Metro line to Dulles and do smaller things like add a light rail line on Columbia Pike. Maryland has gone all highway all the time in the last couple of years and while studies of the Purple Line and other transit extensions continue, there seems to be little actual momentum to build them.
Washington, D.C.: Maybe this is an obvious question, but why can't the problem with the Rosslyn tunnel just be fixed by building a second tunnel? Isn't this going to have to happen given the enormous growth in that area? Thanks for the help.
Lyndsey Layton: Yes, a second tunnel would solve a raft of problems. No, ain't likely to happen because the region's political leaders don't want to expend the resources.
About five years ago, Metro's engineers floated a plan that included a second Rosslyn tunnel as well as new track through the heart of downtown (which included a station in Georgetown) and the proposal went down as fast as newly rehabilitated Metro escalator. As it is, the region struggles to come up with enough money to keep the existing subway running - no regional leaders are pushing to expand it.
Silver Spring, Md.: On Friday night I left Chinatown/Gallery Place at 2:00 am to take the Red Line back to Silver Spring. I was charged "Rush Hour Rates!" The train was practicially empty and the normally short trip took over an hour due to single tracks between many of the stops. Has Metro always charged "Rush Hour Rates" for late night travel? Why?
Lyndsey Layton: Hi Silver Spring,
The Metro board opted to start charging premium rates for late night travel after some members suggested it was too costly and should be eliminated. The compromise was to increase fares, hence the rush hour rate.
I have been following some of the discussions here over the last couple weeks re. gas and commuting and lengths of commutes.
One item that comes up over and over again is that there is no affordable housing close in so people have to move farther out. I just want to say that is total balderdash! There are tons of houses close in, that may need some work or are in transitional areas, but they exists. It seems to me people are just snobs and can't abide living in more humble surroundings.
I live in DC and work in DC and chuckle when I hear how long people sit in traffic and gripe about it.
As my mother use to say, can't be that bad or you'd do something about it.
OK I'll get off my soap box now.
Steve Ginsberg: I agree with your notion that it can't be that bad or people would do something about it. But I think for many it is that bad, just that they can't do anything about all the other factors that bring them to their long commutes.
You're right that there is some (increasingly limited) affordable housing in the inner core. But it's not like people aren't moving into those areas like crazy. It seems like the entire city is gentrifying at once. And while many people can and do choose those places to live, most families don't want to take a gamble on a transitional area where crime and schools are a huge consideration.
Metro+Weekend=Fuggedaboutit: Unlike Washington, I find Metro to be very reliable (though often crowded) for my daily commute. However, my wife and I have pretty much given up on using Metro to come into DC for nightlife or weekends. We've had a number of experiences like the 55 minute wait. Last time we gave up after 20 minutes and caught a cab home. They need to work on this!
Lyndsey Layton: Thanks, Fuggedaboutit. From your keyboard to Dan Tangherlini's computer screen.
Silver Spring, Md.: I must say that the ICC better known as the Purple Line, is long over due. With gas prices steadily increasing, the knee jerk decision of politicians to increase highway lanes instead of fund mass transit projects is looking silly in hindsight (which admittedly is always 20-20). I strongly believe in building the purple line, especially being that I do not have a car anymore. I think Americans will start adjusting driving habits and I think the Purple line will ease that transition some what. I think folks with political power seem to see the majority of people that use the metro and other forms of public are within a certain (disadvantaged) demographic and perhaps have not put money into public transportation because of this. I'm a federal government analyst, making decent money-and not that I do not have a car, I see how feels to be somewhat ignored. What do you think of the Purple Line and what are the largest obstacles to seeing the purple line built (besides the Columbia Country Club)? Thank you.
Lyndsey Layton: Good morning Silver Spring,
It's clear that Metro's hub and spoke design (suburbs to central city) is outmoded, considering the amount of suburb to suburb travel that takes place in this region and that a circumferential rail line that connects the to ends of the Red Line would be well used.
But I don't believe the Purple Line will move anywhere off the shelf while Gov. Ehrlich is in office. He has made it clear that the ICC is his transportation priority, regardless of the price at the pump.
Northern Virginia: Does the Metro have a page that lists construction projects for the coming weekends that may cause delays? I know that WTOP mentions the delays on the weekend, but sometimes, it would be handy knowing a few days in advance. For example, If I know that there will be work on the Orange line near the Falls Church Metro, I could plan to go to the Ballston Metro instead to avoid/reduce the impact of the delay.
Steve Ginsberg: metro's web site, www.wmata.com, usually posts the delays by Thursday. The Post has also made it something of a habit to put them at the top left of the Metro section in Friday's paper, so you can get your info there as well.
Washington, D.C.: I hope you can help me get some information. There was an incident involving a Metrobus on Friday night (around 9:30 or so, I think) at the intersection of Wisconsin and Massachusetts. It sounded to me like the bus ran over something--I thought maybe a dog, but several police cars and ambulances showed up, so I'm afraid it was something more serious. I'd just like to know that whoever was involved is okay, but haven't seen anything about it. Do you know, or can you find out?
Steve Ginsberg: I don't have information on this, but Metro usually logs on to these chats, so maybe they can help us. Lisa, you out there?
Baltimore, Md.: I WAS a daily commuter on the MARC Camden line to College Park for 6 months. I was unusual because I brought a folding bike with to complete the trip from the station to the campus by bike. Why did I stop? The hostility of the train conductors and the lack of appropriate space for my bike simply wore me out. I was willing to do the 4+ hour round trip commute had I not been so worn down each day by the lack of accommodation for myself with a bike. I now drive about a 2 hour round trip commute. I am just one lost passenger but if a public transportation, MARC, can't make room for a committed public transportation commuter such as myself, then they need to look at their policies and attitude very carefully.
Steve Ginsberg: I'm sorry, that's a disappointing tale. There needs to be a whole new attitude check in this region as far as bike riders are concerned. They have some nice new bike lanes in the District, for instance, but drivers routinely use them as if they were made for cars, making it hard for bikers to get by.
Washington, D.C.: Do you have any idea why the H2/3/4 line, which is reliable in the morning rush hour, is so unreliable during the evening rush hour? And after 6:30 pm it is so frquently off-schedule it is a joke. Many people in Mt. Pleasant, Adams Morgan, and Columbia Heights who want to take the red line from Cleveland Park, drive to CP rather than take this bus line because of its unreliability in the afternoon/evening.
Lyndsey Layton: Ah, the mystery. As a general rule, evening rush hour is a little tougher on travel times than the morning rush. But I wonder about the drivers on that line at that hour and the supervision (or lack thereof) - whether anyone is checking to make sure the drivers are leaving the bus garage on time, etc. etc. Weak or nonexistent supervision has been a chronic problem at Metrobus.
Washington, D.C.: To add to the food on the Metro discussion last week: If more and more people are eating on the trains, this may explain why a cockroach almost crawled on my arm when I was on the train last week. And to me, that's as strong an argument as any for Metro to do a better job of policing food violators.
Silver Spring, Md.: For our friend from Paris - Look into SEPTA (south eastern pennsylvania transit authority). They run commuter trains in the philadephia area. You can either take Amtrak to Philadelphia and SEPTA to Newark, Delaware. Or you can save some money, and take NJ Transit to Trenton, NJ then SEPTA to Philadelphia and change trains to take SEPTA to Newark. Good Luck.
Steve Ginsberg: Thanks! That's a great help. Sorry you have to make a transfer or two, Paris. It'll be just like taking the RER from de Gaulle to the Metro in the city.
Bowie, Md.: Only Verizon cellphones currently work in Metro's underground system. Believe they have an exclusive arrangement. Do you know if there have been any discussions or plans to wire the tunnels so Cingular and other providers' phones will work, too?
Metro was the first subway in the country to offer underground cell phone service. It signed an exclusive deal in 1993 with Bell Atlantic Mobile and then reupped the contract in 2001 with Verizon (Bell's successor)that doesn't expire until 2017.
You'd think for that longterm arrangement, Metro had negotiated some unbelievable deal that would bring in buckets of money every day. But the terms have brought in $331,000 in a dozen years, or $27,583 a year.
In recent months (and after some bad publicity about the terms of this arrangement) Metro has been trying to open up the cell phone service to other carriers but it may end up costing the agency.
Washington, D.C.: For the Jersey tourist from Paris, France... you may want to consider a rented car for the entire trip from Newark, NJ to Newark, DE. The reason is that the Amtrak train only operates profitably in the northeast, so the fares may be higher than what you would expect. A rental car will permit you to travel without hauling baggage from one mode to another. A rental car will also minimize the contact you have with Americans in public. This can still be unpleasant for those with French accents, as the hostility toward France that our political leaders encouraged during 2003 persists, even while all the worst predictions about Iraq have come true.
Steve Ginsberg: oh please. Our friend from France won't have any problems with Americans, at least not because he/she is from France.
As far as transportation goes, renting a car is an option but be warned that you will likely hit traffic between Newark and Newark. That stretch is invariably bad--except for yesterday when I went from D.C. to northern New Jersey and back for which I am eternally grateful to the traffic gods.
Clifton, Va.: DC your solutions for affordable housing will work in an utopian world but not in he real world. Folks, want good schools, low crime and shopping. Marginal areas close in just dont have it. PG County close in has crime, crummy school, a high murder rate and double the car insurance rate of Fairfax, PW, Loudoun or Clarke County. Ie instead of paying a $1000 a year for car insurance you pay $2000 which buys a lot of gas. The closer in MD and in DC the more dysfunctional the local govt.
Steve Ginsberg: Here's one commuter's view on living close in.
Paris, France: Steve, yes that's right Newark New Jersey to Newark, Delaware. I didn't know that Amtrak is stopping at Newark International Airport. Is that so? or do i need to go first either to Newark train staion or Penn Station? with the possible delays at customs and waits for the next train at train stations that might add many hours of travel time to the voyage. I would be glad to hear if someone knows if this a workable solution? Thanks!
Steve Ginsberg: Hello there! Can't we convince you to go somewhere else besides a Newark?
And you can take trains to get there, it'll just require a transfer or two. www.amtrak.com is where you want to start.
Arlington, Va.: For the person from Paris -- I took NJ Transit and SEPTA once between NY and Philadelphia when I was a poor college student, and swore I'd never do it again! It just takes way too long. Amtrak is a much better rail option between Newark and Philadelphia. It is worth the extra money, especially if you're tired from a trans-Atlantic flight and have luggage with you. Amtrak also stops in Wilmington, DE.
Steve Ginsberg: Some more help for Paris.
Lyndsey Layton: There were several questions in our last chat two weeks ago that I couldn't answer on the spot but promised to provide.
One chatter complained about a constantly broken escalator at the
Gallery Place station. Lisa Farbstein at Metro says the escalator between the platform and mezzanine on the Chinatown
side had been out of
service since April 2 for a split handrail. Metro finally got the new handrail and Farbstein says the unit should be back in service.
Another chatter asked about a problem with the elevator in
the New Carrollton garage. Farbstein says the elevators, by design, under certain circumstances are supposed to
cancel car calls. For example , if someone presses all eight floors in
an empty car the "nuisance call function" would extinguish the car calls
after the car has stopped at the first few floors if no one gets in or
out of the elevator. The elevator "knows" that someone exits at a floor
if the beams located at the door edge are be broken when someone passes
through them. Apparently the "nuisance call function" was not operating
properly. The elevator warrantee contractor was notified of the problem
and the elevators have been adjusted and are working properly, Farbstein says.
And finally, the elevators in the new New Carrollton parking garage
have been inspected by the State of Maryland, and Metro's Office of
Elevator and Escalator Maintenance holds the certificates. Transit officials will place a notification inside the elevator cabs as to where
the certificates can be found, Farbstein said.
Alexandria, Va.: Mr. Ginsberg said this: "They have some nice new bike lanes in the District, for instance, but drivers routinely use them as if they were made for cars, making it hard for bikers to get by."
I know on 9th Street there is a combination bike/bus lane on the right from New York Avenue down to about where the FBI is. Just about everyone ignores it (me included). The road used to have three lanes for traffic. The bike/bus lane reduces that to two. BUT there's no enforcement to keep those lanes clear. The cabbies routinely just stop in the left thru lane, and the valet parker at Zaytinya also has people stop there. This would reduce it to one lane if we didn't ignore the so-called "bike/bus lane."
I'm all for dedicated bike lanes because I think they benefit both the bikers AND the drivers. We wouldn't come in conflict as often. But there has to be some common sense in how these things are implemented! You can't just stripe a lane and expect compliance when the effect of compliance is to reduce a three-lane road, one that effectively had only two lanes in the first place, to a road that effectively has only ONE lane!
Steve Ginsberg: I agree on 9th Street. That right hand lane is an enigma. But elsewhere in the city the bike lanes are clearly marked and do not take away driving lanes. Drivers need to appreciate this, especially when making a turn.
Rosslyn, Va.: One quick positive comment - I went to Silver Spring from Rosslyn Saturday evening, aware of the delays. Took the orange to Metro center and then the red towards Glenmont. At Judiciary square, the conductor let us know that we would be sitting there for at least 15 min. and if we were going past Ft Totten on the Red line, it would be faster to take the green line to Ft. Totten and then the Red line towards Glenmont, which I did. Thanks to the information, a potentially frustrating ride ended up being a somewhat easy one. I just wanted to say that metro might not be perfect but all we, riders, want is being kept informed when there are problems so we can make other plans and adapt.
Lyndsey Layton: See what I mean about giving quality information to the public? That enabled the Orange-to-Red-to-Green shuffle around the problem area and resulted in a Rosslyn resident who isn't ready to swear off Metro.
Waco, Texas (formerly DC): There is an Amtrak stop in Newark, Delaware. However, it is a low-service station (at least with Amtrak). I just checked Amtrak's schedule, and there is -one- train scheduled that will run from Newark, NJ (main station, not Newark Airport) that stops in Newark, Del. However, that train does not stop at the airport. The airport traveler will need to change trains downline in Wilmington. (BTW, the connection looks somewhat unappealing: leave Newark Airport at about 4:30 p.m. to arrive to Wilmington about 5:50 or so, leave Wilmington at 7:20 and arrive at Newark, Del., at 7:30 p.m.)
Is the traveler from Paris going to the University of Delaware? If so, it might be better to check our that school's website for transportation options. I've seen the Newark, Del., train stop while on the way between DC and NYC. It's a rather forlorn looking place - don't know how well served the stop is in terms of local public transportation.
Steve Ginsberg: I love it when you guys help out other travelers, especially when someone from another country chooses our chat as the place to figure out how to get around the United States. So thanks and keep it up.
Washington, D.C.: Last week I went over to Scotland for four days and had the chance to drive about 150 miles. Fuel was more expensive (95.9 pence per litre for diesel works out to $7.25 per us gallon), but otherwise, driving there is a ton more pleasant than driving here! A couple of things I noticed:
(a) No four-way stops. Roundabouts are used instead. And unlike here, the drivers are taught proper use of turn indicators at roundabouts (essential so that people know whether they need to stop and yield). If you're turning right--that is, going three-quarters of the way around the roundabout--you signal right before you enter, drive around the island, then signal left before your exit. The equivalent here would be to be going left when you approach a roundabout. I know Virginia teaches new drivers that if you're going left, you don't signal AT ALL until just before your exit. DUMB!!! Dumb dumb dumb! It just makes drivers at the earlier entrances have to guess at whether you're turning.
(b) Much as with the roundabouts, "traffic calming" measures are done in such a way as to allow traffic to keep moving, but at the speed limit. In the DC area, we get speed humps (sometimes sharp ones, too) and stop signs. In Scotland, there were roundabouts and chicanes. A chicane is an island blocking one side of the street. Traffic on that side of the street has to move across the center line, go around the island, then move back; if a car is coming the other way, you must yield before going around the island, but if nobody's coming, you need not stop. Worked great. Kept traffic going closer to the 20-mph speed limit in the villages, too.
(c) One of the most useful things over there is that the traffic light cycle is subtly different from ours. When you're sitting at a red light, just before it turns green you get BOTH a red AND yellow light at the same time to tell you it's going to change. Everyone then steps on the clutch, shifts into first, and goes as soon as the green comes on. Compare to America, where there's no warning of a green, so the lead driver often has to call his mother on his cell phone to ask if the light really turned green, all the while sitting still.....
If I could nominate two ideas for improving driving in the US, I'd say (1) adopt the red/yellow combination light and (2) rip out most of the silly four-way stops and put in roundabouts. At a roundabout you stop and yield only if needed. Four-way stops just introduce a lot of pointless stopping at empty intersections.
Steve Ginsberg: I'm with ya. I've done a lot of driving in England and Scotland and find both of those devices to be immensely useful. Eespecially roundabouts, which, if used properly, make driving sooo much better. I worry a little on the red light device because I think a lot of drivers here would use it as a chance to speed through the intersection before the light actually changes.
Washington, D.C.: I had a slightly disturbing experience on the Metro last Friday. Another passenger and I spotted an unattended bag on the floor of an Orange line train. We used the intercom to alert the conductor, who thanked us and then--did nothing. At this point, the train was at the Federal Triangle stop, and the doors were still open. Once it became clear that the conductor wasn't going to do anything, the other passenger and I got off the train and spoke to the attendant in the station booth. According to the attendant, it's Metro policy to have the train continue on as if nothing has happened, until a supervisor can meet up with the train at a station up the line.
That policy seems...a little bizzare to me. I can understand that every unattended bag shouldn't shut down a train completely, but given everything we've had drilled into us about CONSTANT VIGILANCE against terrorism suggest that unloading the passengers on a train with an uninspected unattended bag might be the safest thing to do? I get kicked off trains where the doors won't close all the time--why can't we do the same for unattended bags?
You raise some good points here and you also illustrate how complacent we've become. I do not believe that Metro's policy is to let the bag ride along the line until a supervisor has a chance to catch up with it. The train operator is supposed to inspect the bag, to determine if it poses a danger (they've been trained to look for signs that might indicate a bomb - wires, leakage, etc.) and then act accordingly, which means notifying central control, which decides whether to call police or send a supervisor.
Paris, France: Yes, that is valuable information about SEPTA from Trenton. I am little worried as i will be carrying a laptop and a 35 millimeter camera with me as well as luggage... By the way whenever I take the RER (which goes directly into the center of Paris) I hold onto to my luggage every second. Those trains are famous for snatch and run scams organized by groups of two or three, especially the slower trains that make a half dozen stops before gare de Nord. Just the thing for the jet lagged traveler.
Steve Ginsberg: Amtrak is probably safer than SEPTA, but I suspect you'll be okay either way.
Re: Paris Traveler: Doesn't the SEPTA (Philadelphia regional train) go to Newark, Del? If you flew into there or took AMTRAK from Newark, NJ to Philadelphia, you could get to Newark Delaware via SEPTA. Good luck!
Steve Ginsberg: One more idea.
Downtown Washington, D.C.: I have a gripe: Each day, when I am walking into or out of a Metro station, I notice able-bodied people using the Metro elevators because they are too lazy to take the escalator.
This is incredible to me given how many senior citizens and disabled people rely on Metro. Is Metro doing anything to keep these elevators free for those who need them most?
Lyndsey Layton: Hi Downtown DC,
There is no rule or regulation about restricting use of Metro elevators to disabled folks. There are some people who prefer the elevator because they feel uncomfortable on some of the extremely long escalators (The Wheaton escalator is the second longest in the Western hemisphere).
Alexandria, Va.: It's great being able to drive to Nats games at a stadium with ample parking. I've heard many many horror stories about the Stadium/Armory Station Metro service before and after events at the stadium.
The Nats will be moving to a new stadium, which will not have any parking at all. That means 99 percent of the fans will be forced onto Metro for games. Has Metro started to think about how it's going to handle 40,000 people 81 times each year on game days. I know the city is going to be working expanding the Navy Yard station, but trains can only hold so many people, and the Navy Yard station is only served by one Metro line (Green), and the last time I checked, PG County only accounts for a small percentage of the areas population. This new stadium is a transportation nightmare waiting to happen!!!
Steve Ginsberg: I think this is a big concern for the new stadium. That station seems like it'll be overrun, even with changes. (It's a quick transfer off the Green Line, so I suspect fans will use Metro even if they don't live in Prince George's.) Some city officials are hoping that a revitalized area will entice fans to go to bars and restaurants after games, rather than everyone getting on Metro at once. But this seems like overly wishful thinking to me.
The Newarks: There are two Amtrak trains that service the Newark, DE station: 193 and 135. 193 isn't direct and it runs M-F, but 135 is direct but only runs Sat. and Sun. Check the Amtrak website for schedule info; if you plug in the station info (EWR and NRK), date, and time, it will tell you how to get there.
Steve Ginsberg: This'll be our final bit of advice for our Paris traveler. Good luck with your trip!
Falls Church, Va.: Any news on the idea to tear down Whitehurst Freeway? I'm against it -- the last thing we need to do is eliminate a road that allows people to enter and leave the city efficiently.
Steve Ginsberg: It's still being studied and it'll be at least a year before the city comes close to a recommendation.
Washington, D.C.: I don't know why the HOV lanes are opened so early in the evening (who in DC leaves work before 6?), but can the cops at least stop people from camping out on the side of the HOV lanes by the Pentagon, waiting for 6 to hit? I've seen several almost-accidents when they suddenly try to merge, and people often jump the gun when they see there aren't any police cars around.
Steve Ginsberg: I don't know why they open at 6 p.m. either. It's a very, very dated notion of rush hour, to say the least.
Washington, D.C.: What's an "acceptable" amount of time for a Metro escalator to be out of service? The escalator at the Brookland station has been out of service for over a month!
The Brookland escalator was at one point the worst performing escalator in the Metro system - out of service far more often than in service. I don't know why it's currently down but can find out and will post it during the chat in two weeks.
FYI - when Metro rehabilitates an escalator (taking it apart down to its metal skeleton and then rebuilding it with new components), the process can take 3 months.
Baltimore, Md.: Re the Silver Spring poster who drives to Union Station: I can't do the geography in my head, but if this poster is taking the MARC Penn Line to BWI, it wouldmake more sense to drive to either New Carrollton or Seabrook, the first two stops up the line up the line in PG--rather than to go downtown. For one thing, at Seabrook, the parking would be free. I know the poster is not finding free parking at Union Station!
Steve Ginsberg: All kinds of rider advice today...
Alexandria, Va.: My long-term solution is lanes for electic Segways, scooters, and golf cart type buggies. I believe there are many commuters who can't bike all the way to DC, but would use a Segway or a scooter. You can't mix them in with the bicyclers, as a test case, how about giving them a lane on the GW Parkway? Plus it would give commuters an incentive to go solar, you could power your scooter from your house.
Steve Ginsberg: How about a lane for Smart Cars, those tiny little things all over Europe that would be great here if not for fear of being overrun by SUVs.
Washington, D.C.: On bike lanes, a good example is on Q and R Streets NW, where the bike lane is a narrow one alongside parallel-parked cars. Just please, when you park your car, check for cyclists before opening the door into the bike lane! Yikes!
Steve Ginsberg: Amen to that!
Fort Washington, Md.: Will it be possible to bike across the WW Bridge from MD after it is completed to Alexandria and not end up as road kill?
Steve Ginsberg: Yes it will.
Washington, D.C.: Steve, re: the last chat, someone wanted to know how to avoid 66 to get to Dulles since she would be traveling during HOV only times. But remember, when you are going to the airport, you don't need to have 2 people in your car. VDOT allows an exception for airport travelers (at www.virginiadot.org/comtravel/hov-noexcuses.asp - "Motorists traveling to and from Dulles International Airport to go to the airport or to pick someone up at the airport are permitted to use I-66 inside the Beltway (I-495) during HOV hours.") Thanks.
Steve Ginsberg: That's true and thanks for reminding me. It's a little known fact of Dulles trivia. However, it doesn't get you there faster if you get pulled over and have to explain this to a police officer.
University Park, Md.: An escalator was out of service at the Prince George's Plaza Metro station for a number of weeks. The signs posted on the sawhorhses at the bottom and top of the escalator said the work would be completed by March 31, 2006. That date came and went, seemingly without any additional work being performed, but the sign never changed. Finally, about three weeks late, the escalator was reopened. Why can't Metro provide current information about these kinds of things? It would have been better not to have had a date posted at all than to have one posted that was three weeks old by the time it was no longer needed!
Lyndsey Layton: Hi University Park - it's the little things that people notice. Metro officials probably figured that the delay was going to be so slight that it wasn't worth it to change the sign. But bad data like that becomes an irritant to people passing through the station and it also eats away at the credibility of the system.
Washington, D.C.: Greetings, track work was being performed on the Red Line on Saturday. There was only track work on the Orange Line Sunday. Delays due to track work were estimated to be between 10-15 minutes. However, if there are unexpected mechanical breakdowns this can delay a passenger's trip as well. Saturday afternoon around 3 p.m. there was about a 10 minute delay on the Red Line due to a door problem on a train. Another breakdown caused a six minute delay on the Red Line Sunday around 1:20 p.m. Metro Media Relations
Steve Ginsberg: Thanks. Traffic work may have been estimated at 10 to 15 minutes, but several chatters are reporting that delays were much, much longer. We get these sorts of reports every time we have a chat, so it may be time to relook at those estimates.
"Minor" Weekend Delays: I've completely given up on the Metro on weekends (esp. the Red Line) because of the single tracking. It's just not worth the hassle. I can walk to my destination faster.
So: is there any end in sight to the weekend track repair? It's been going on for what seems like 1000 years and I can't find any info on when (IF??) it will finally end.
Until then I'm in Metro weekend exile.
Steve Ginsberg: Here's an example of what I'm saying regarding weekend track work...
Washington DC--Follow-up: I do live in DC and have for 18 years. My car insurance is $800 a year. I have never been mugged (thank God) and find DC government no more inept that Balt., Phillie, or NYC.
There is affordable housing IN DC in good areas. Go do a search online and see for yourselves. Sure schools can be questionable, but how much help are you providing your child if you are sitting in traffic, rather than sitting with your child?
Qhat is your quality of life with a 2 hour commute in each direction each day? That's all I'm saying.
Steve Ginsberg: I live in D.C. myself (for the last 10 years) so clearly I'm on board with your point. But I completely understand people who don't want to live in a place where the government is "no more inept" than other inept governments and where school choice comes down to struggling public ones versus unaffordable private ones.
I-66 to Dulles: I was the person who asked about getting to Dulles in the last chat. I'm aware of the HOV exemption, but my flight to Heathrow was at 18:35 so I had to go BEFORE HOV hours and I feared the road would be snarled. Wound up taking the GW Parkway to the Beltway, then the Access Road. Worked out very well; plus it was a nice sunny day, so the GW Parkway was a nice drive.
Thanks to all who advised that I-66 would be a standstill.
Steve Ginsberg: A real live Northern Virginia traffic success story! Thanks for updating us and glad you got there in good shape.
Student: I'm a student intern coming to D.C. for the summer. I plan to commute from Arlington into the city for work. What is the best fare options avaliable to me? Also, what kind of cost can I expect for using the metro for three months in D.C.? The metro website was confusing at best. Thanks!
Arlington County has a terrific website filled with all sorts of references for commuting. Check out http://www.commuterpage.com/
And you ought to revisit the Metro website and try out the Ride Guide, which is a good way to get commuting options and calculate corresponding fares. Fares vary depending on time of day.
Good luck, and welcome to DC
Washington, D.C.: I just want to point out that you cannot look at a person and determine their need for the elevator. Many people have invisible physical limitations.
Lyndsey Layton: An excellent point. Thanks
RE: Elevators: Were the folks using the elevator taking up space that would have otherwise been used for someone with a disability or accessibility needs? If not, then there should not be any griping going on. Elevators are not like handicap parking. Anyone can use them at any time. Social grace would dictate to not use them if your presence would deny space for someone in need.
Lyndsey Layton: Also an excellent point.
Alexandria, Va.: Is there a buyout provision in that Verizon contract with Metro? They NEED to get out of that!!
That's what Metro lawyers are investigating...Stay tuned. I'll add, by the way, that other transit systems around the country are making a tidy profit from their cell phone contracts.
Washington, D.C.: Because of the way Metro's stations are designed, often the elevators bring you out at a different location than the escalators do. I know that at my station, people will use the elevator because it brings them up one block away from the escalator entrance, which for some people is closer to their final destination.
Lyndsey Layton: Wow, this elevator issue is multi-dimensioned. Who knew? Thanks.
Bethesda, Md.: Steve you stated "Some city officials are hoping that a revitalized area will entice fans to go to bars and restaurants after games, rather than everyone getting on Metro at once. But this seems like overly wishful thinking to me."
Are you aware of the success of the Verizon (formerly MCI) Center downtown? Why are so many people such as yourself quick to dismiss the redevelopment that will surround the new Nats Stadium?
Steve Ginsberg: Oh I think there will be tons of redevelopment, I'm just not sure thousands and thousands of people will go to bars after games thereby making Metro work smoothly. MCI holds less than half of what the new stadium will hold and is served directly by three Metro lines and within just a couple blocks by several others. The Nats new stadium will be served by one smallish station with one line. The math doesn't seem to add up, at least not yet.
Metro WOrk: Is there any chance track work will ever end on the various lines during weekends?
I haven't used Metro on the weekends for a long time now since every week there are big delays due to red line track work and usually some orange/blue and yellow/green.
Steve Ginsberg: Another sample of weekend track work sentiment. I have to add that my weekend experiences haven't been great either.
Westminster, Md.: I must commute to Washington for about 6 weeks. I can drive to either end of the red line and take the train in. Any ideas which end of the red lineis a better commute as far as parking and train crowding? The drive to Glenmont is a little longer but there are fewer stops to the Union Station area where I need to go.
Lyndsey Layton: If your destination is Union Station, I'd board at Glenmont. Faster trip times and my sense is that it's less congested.
Parisian in Newark, N.J.: Hello to our Parisian traveler --
There is a free monorail from Newark airport to the train station, where you have a choice of Amtrak and New Jersey Transit (they both have regular arrivals at Newark.)
NJ Transit is cheaper and goes to many of the same places, and ends its journey in Trenton. At Trenton, the SEPTA is directly across the platform, and the NJ Transit train conductor announces the SEPTA departure time for the passengers.
Steve Ginsberg: okay, one more suggestion...
Almost Close-in: "PG County close in has crime, crummy school...etc"
That's why you move to outer PG county. You're still infinitely closer to the Belway the loudoun or spotsylvania or clarke, etc. Plus you get the benefit of much better schools, low crime, shopping and restaurants...and no traffic. Of course you pay a fair bit more for it, but it's still a bargain. The wife and I did it a few years ago and couldn't be happier with our commute.
Steve Ginsberg: Another commuter choice...
Petworth, Washington, D.C.: Maybe The Post could do a good feature on the situation in downtown London, where cars have been extremely limited for over a year now. The situation gets passing mention every now and then, but let's get the creative possibilities on the radar screens of Americans who whine about traffic and gas prices, but can't take the bus or suffer more gas taxes.
My understanding is that the London plan has had the desired effect.
Steve Ginsberg: I think the Post should do a good feature on that. And I think they should send me there to do it for at least a week. I hear the food in London is terrific these days.
Steve Ginsberg: Thanks for another great chat. We didn't solve all the world's problems, but we did manage to get one Frenchman fron Newark to Newark. See you again here same time, same place in two weeks. Until then, happy commuting.
You said that local leaders are not pushing to expand Metro. But indeed they are. They want to build 23 more miles of Metro to Dulles and now Maryland is getting a bad case of "me too-itis" about Metro to BWI.
As you correctly point out, the hub and spoke design is outmoded, and yet these linear extensions are just an extension of the spoke. You also correctly point out that the region cannot properly maintain what we have -- adding new track will just make this worse.
You might not be aware, though, that there is recent experience extending heavy rail to a major airport. San Francisco extended BART to SFO and it has been a disaster. Ridership much lower than expected, too many stops between the airport and downtown, etc., etc. It is so bad that they have cut back to 4 trains PER HOUR.
Can't we learn something from San Francisco. Let's not repeat the same mistake. Let's build transit to connect the real activity centers of the region. Let's not extend the artificial hub and spoke to reach airports that will not be well-served by heavy rail.
I meant no one's interested in expanding the CORE Metro system, to alleviate current congestion and improve flexibility of the existing subway.
The Dulles and BWI projects are as much about economic development as transportation (and some argue that neither is truly a transportation solution).
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post staff writer Steven Ginsberg discussed local travel and transportation.
| 860.75 | 0.833333 | 1.666667 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601967.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042601967.html
|
Post Politics Hour
|
2006050119
|
Don't want to miss out on the latest buzz in politics? Start each day at wonk central: The Post Politics Hour. Join in each weekday morning at 11 a.m. as a member of The Washington Post's team of White House and Congressional reporters answers questions about the latest in buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news.
Washington Post Congressional reporter Shailagh Murray was online Monday, May 1, at 11 a.m. ET .
Political analysis from Post reporters and interviews with top newsmakers. Listen live on Washington Post Radio or subscribe to a podcast of the show.
Did you attend the White House Correspondents Dinner on Saturday? Give us the dirt. Please!!!!!!
Thanks for the chats - we LOVE them!
Shailagh Murray: Hello everyone. Thanks for joining. Tell me what you think of the $100 gas rebate, the immigration strikes, etc.
Yes, I did attend the dinner, and as usual, when I observed the sea of prom attire, I thought to myself, who the hell are all these people? I'd never seen most of them before. But there was one table that stood out -- the one where George Clooney was seated, which had so many cameras flashing around it that it looked like a fireworks display. President Bush was very funny, by the way,
Seattle, Wash.: Any fallout from the new Dubai sellout by the Bush crew, or is the Beltway still insulated from the rest of the country?
Shailagh Murray: My theory on this issue is that most politicians are so ashamed of their naked posturing on the ports deal, that there was no chance they would intervene again.
What Would Dana Do?: Everyone's dying to know: does Milbank drive a Prius? He doesn't seem like the SUV type. Maybe he's one of those self-impressed Swedish-vehicle drivers? It's only fair to know, since he's all over the politician cars.
Shailagh Murray: Dana drives a Vespa. Just thinking about him whipping down Connecticut Avenue every morning, his scarf trailing in the breeze, makes me want to run out for an espresso and a new pair of Fendi slingbacks.
Missoula, Mont.: Did you think Colbert was funny or were you one of the press who did not laugh at his jokes?
Shailagh Murray: I thought he was both funny and harsh. I thought Bush was funnier. Colbert had a few great jokes, but the tone was definitely rougher than usual -- although I don't know why people are surprised, because that's his thing. You could tell by Bush's body language, though, that he was offended.
Pittsburgh, Pa.: I'd rather they spent the gas rebate money to either pay down the debt, or help rebuild New Orleans, or fund education, or shore up Social Security, or sponsor research for alternative energy sources.
Shailagh Murray: Republicans, take note. Swing state feedback.
Rochester, N.Y.: I just watched a clip of Stephen Colbert's routine at the press dinner this weekend and I thought it was hilarious. It looked to me as though the audience didn't like it that much. Was that because it was considered over the line -- hard to believe, given that we've seen jokes about WMD and off-color horse jokes in recent years -- or because laughing at these jokes might have been construed at laughing at (not with) the President? I'm puzzled, frankly, since I've always thought the press corps had a sense of humor (aside from Dana Milbank, of course).
Shailagh Murray: I thought the performance went over pretty well -- at least where I was sitting, he seemed to get a good response. But the dinner also dragged on and on, and he was last -- so he had an impatient audience. As for the press corps, it's a cross section like any other business -- there are losers, and there are cool people, but most are regular Joes.
Fairfax, Va.: Are there any Democrats who are calling for a presidential cap on gasoline prices that would require oil companies to reduce their profits? Wouldn't this be a strong issue for the Democrats in the 2006 elections if they spoke out for the cap and the Republicans as expected took the side of the oil companies?
Shailagh Murray: Capping gasoline prices is a non-starter. It's un-American and as short sighted as a rebate, or suspending the gasoline tax, or anything else that puts money in consumers' pockets. Now, that's not to say that Republicans haven't been in the oil industry's pocket for years. Just as Detroit holds the Democratic Party hostage. But for all you folks who are counting on the government for a quick fix -- it ain't going to happen.
Baltimore, Md.: I heard a quote on the radio this morning that if the Democrats can't win the house this year then they'll never win anything. Is that the accepted view right now? Others have said that it's a crap shoot choosing who is going to control the House.
Shailagh Murray: Was that Washington Post radio? I hope not.
Six months before any election, who has any idea what's going to happen? Remember a year or two ago, when you would have been laughed out the room for suggesting Democrats could pick up 10 House seats? There are some folks, smart ones inside the party, who think it will take two cycles to win the House -- and if you start hearing that spin later this summer, that will be a good indication that Nancy Pelosi isn't changing offices anytime soon.
Morrison, Colo.: Since we're running a huge deficit at this point, when the Republicans decide to send us all a check for $100 aren't we in effect just taking out a mortgage against the country to pay for a few tanks of gas?
Shailagh Murray: Another key battleground state! Don't you think that if they're going to follow this course, that they should give $200 to SUV drivers? I mean, they're the ones who are really suffering.
Hampton Cove, Ala.: Even my most liberal friends are starting to get anti-illegal immigrant. These rallies are getting people mad. I suspect the whole thing could backfire against John McCain. Do you agree?
Shailagh Murray: Yes, Alabama, I agree with you. As I've traveled around in the past six weeks or so, I've noticed this exact same trend. A lot of working class Democrats in particular have no patience for illegal immigration. The guest worker program plays particularly poorly -- people really do see that as a threat to good wages.
Ocala, Fla.: The energy secretary gets on TV and says gas prices are likely to be high for three more years, just about the same amount of time Bush will be president. How come nobody in the media has done the story on how the price of crude goes up with Bush presidencies and down when there is no bush in the white house? The price of crude also went way up under Bush 41.
Shailagh Murray: I may be going out on a limb here, but I don't think the price of crude oil has much to do with who occupies the White House. As a former Wall Street Journal reporter, I fall back on the simple supply and demand principle. People want to drive SUVs. A gazillion highway lanes are being built in China. Limited supplies of crude oil, whatever happens with ANWR. Of all the things to be surprised about, high gas prices should not be one of them.
Fairfax Station, Va.: Is there any chance Hillary Clinton would be happy to be the majority leader of the Senate with a democrat as president? After eight years of PR we need to get back to governing and I believe she actually reads the bills that are proposed in Congress.
Shailagh Murray: I think Hillary would be a great Senate Democratic Leader. It would play to all of her strengths...and she could be dismissive and grumpy, too, and actually be admired for it.
Ogden, Utah: As a journalist --I am a columnist, 30-plus years experience, -- I'm offended at the very idea of the correspondents dinner -- making jokes and doing nice-nice with the people you are supposed to be covering?
Come on -- it show, better than we need to see, how cozy you guys are with the politicians you allegedly cover. What happened to maintaining a distance? Avoiding conflict of interest? If I did what you guys do I'd be abandoned by my readers who expect me to speak for them, not the politicians I cover, and they'd be absolutely right.
Shailagh Murray: Yeah, you make a good point. It's crossed my mind. It's a strange event -- it should be really fun, but with the metal detectors, the endless speeches and and the crush of people, it's pretty tedious. We would indeed be compromised but for the fact that the evening is as intimate as a county fair.
Seattle, Wash.: I think the $100 tax rebate is a farce, when we could spend the same money on building American-made biofuel stations nationwide and do ten times as much good in reducing oil demand nationwide.
Other than that, I loved the pic of Speaker Hastert getting out of his demo hybrid car to get into his real gas-guzzling SUV, while Sen. Maria Cantwell was the only one to walk back the two blocks to the Capitol buildings.
Shailagh Murray: That Hastert vehicle switch is one of the best snafus ever...like sneaking a chili dog after a Weight Watcher's meeting.
Hadley, Mass.: "I may be going out on a limb here, but I don't think the price of crude oil has much to do with who occupies the White House. As a former Wall Street Journal reporter, I fall back on the simple supply and demand principle."There are plenty of things that the President could have done for the last 5 years that could have affected the "demand" part of things (CAFE standards, etc.) and he has not done them.
Shailagh Murray: Yes, you're right -- my point is that making gas cheaper only makes matters worse.
Washington, D.C.: So how come there's been so little in the press about Stephen Colbert's routine at the WH Correspondents dinner? I was frustrated when I saw the picture of Colbert and how he made "very pointed" comments, but no one has reported on them.
Shailagh Murray: I'm surprised by the number of questions I've gotten about the Stephen Colbert performance -- and I would bet it means that more will be written about it. If you all haven't seen it, check out C-Span. It was exactly the kind of satire you see on his show, albeit in a much different setting. Whether it was inappropriate or not, I'm not a good judge --I love inappropriate.
Have a good couple of weeks. Thanks to everyone for participating. Cheers, Shailagh
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Washington Post Congressional reporter Shailagh Murray discusses the latest buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news.
| 106 | 0.952381 | 7.238095 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/17/DI2006041700450.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/17/DI2006041700450.html
|
Color of Money Book Club
|
2006050119
|
Michelle Singletary hosted author June Fletcher for a discussion about this month's Color of Money Book Club selection -- "House Poor: Pumped-Up Prices, Rising Rates, and Mortgages on Steroids."
Michelle writes that she'd been looking for a real estate book to recommend for a while now. But she says too many are written by folks who are so tied to the industry they can't be objective or they overly promote (recklessly in some cases) the prospect of anyone and everyone getting Bill Gates-rich buying and selling real estate. Michelle says "House Poor" is different.
Fletcher also discussed the book in an online chat last November.
Read Michelle's past Color of Money columns .
Michelle Singletary: Welcome all. Well this couldn't be a better topic given the current housing market, which is about to burst its bubble or is going still strong -- according to who you talk to.
Washington, D.C.: We are first-time homebuyers and after looking for months, we found a house in a great neighborhood. We close on Friday. The house is small and a definite fixer-upper, but we really love the neighborhood and in general are very excited. However, I'm really nervous that we're making a mistake here and getting in over our heads with repairs (mostly cosmetic, but every single room needs some work). Is buyers remorse normal? Logically, I know we saw a lot of houses and this was by far the best in our price range (and the only neighborhood we liked). Also, we'll probably stay for 7-10 years, so I'm trying not to get worked up about a potential bubble, but I'm still concerned that if we put money into renovations, we won't get it back when it's time to sell. I'm panicking here and haven't slept in almost a week, please help!
June Fletcher: If you're going to stay for at least seven years, then don't worry. You'll have lots of time to make needed repairs--and that's the best way to boost your home's value over time, too. According to Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value survey, exterior repairs and replacements give the best payback, followed by fixups to kitchens and baths.
Washington, D.C.: I'm looking into getting my credit together to purchase a home and I have four negative collection accounts on my credit which adds up to $1000. Not sure if I should pay that or save the money for a down payment.
June Fletcher: You'll definitely want to spruce up your credit first, since lenders are going to base your interest rate on your FICO score.
Michelle Singletary: Also, may I suggest something that is probably different and that I'm sure some people would disagree with. Pay off those debts. You owe the money so pay off that debt before you save up for a down payment. That is the right and moral thing to do. Now, having said that you should do that if those debts are really old and about to come off your credit report (negative information comes off after 7 years) paying the debts might cause the creditor to "reage" the debt and it might appear as new information on your credit report. So here's what you should do to prevent that. Write or call all three creditors and let them know you want to settle up. If you can, get them to put in writing that they will not update your credit report in a way that will make the information reported seem like new information which could hurt your credit score. So in other words agree to pay but ask that they now report that the "debt was paid in full or "as agreed."
Once you pay off the debt then save for your downpayment.
Columbia, Md.: Yes to Consumer Reports! Most recently we've used to it remodel a kitchen (cabinets, counters, appliances), buy two cars, washer, dryer and a lawn mower.
The online subscription would be a good option for people, also.
Michelle Singletary: I agree online subscription is good and saves paper.
Vienna, VA: We're thinking of moving to DC to shorten our commute. However, if anything, we could only afford a condo when the prices have come back down to earth. Would you advise against buying a condo, considering that condo fee can be high and the condo market could be affected more than single family homes if the real estate market slows down severely?
June Fletcher: Condo prices tend to be volatile, and as you correctly point out, they can be more severely affected in a downturn. And they are probably being overbuilt in the DC area right now--mostly because land prices are so high, builders need a lot of density to make a profit.
But my feeling is, you should let other factors determine where you live than just potential appreciation. Does a condo suit your lifestyle, or would a single-family home be better?
Michelle Singletary: I couldn't agree with June more. I bought a condo in Baltimore way, way, way back in the mid-80s. When I finally wanted to sell the condo several years ago, I couldn't give away the place. But I kept trying and changing real estate agents and I finally sold it. Didn't make a dime in profit even tho the condo was in a lovely area (two bedroom, one bath, great space).
So no profit but I got to live it in for more than a decade, my disabled brother lived it in for awhile, got a tax break on it while I lived there...it suited my needs as a single woman. I say all that to say I didn't see any appreciation but I certainly appreciated having a home that was mine. Buying a condo is tricky but if you answer other questions other than will I make money on this place it still might be the right home for you.
Nashville, Tennessee: I'm a 69 year old widow with a 30 year old house on a lake in Tennessee. It's appraised at $325,000. I'm still working for a small salary and also receive social security. I've done a good job of keeping up with repairs on my home, having recently replaced the heat pump and had new roof put on. With no mortgage payments, I took out a home equity loan to keep up with repairs, and replace some aging appliances and furniture. I now find myself wallowing in debt again. I'd like to sell and worried that after I pay down the five-digit equity line, I won't have enough to live on unless I continue to work. Am I foolish to try to keep my home, or is it time to sell and move into an apartment?
June Fletcher: Selling your home would free up cash; and well-invested in stocks, bonds and Treasuries, it could give you a chance to enjoy your retirement. You might also look into a reverse equity mortgage, which allows you to stay in your home and pull out your equity in monthly installments.
Michelle Singletary: If I might add, if you really want to stay in your home go for the reverse mortgage. With this loan product you get to keep your home and pull out the equity AND you don't have to make a single payment on the loan until you sell, move or pass away. Now the fees can be high but if you live long and stay in the home a long time, it's a good way to get out of your house rich/cash poor situation. Also depending on how much equity you have already pulled out you could qualify for a reverse mortgage now and pay off the home equity loan NOW and free yourself of that ongoing debt. Go to these Web sites for more information on reverse mortgages:
Silver Spring, Md.: In this market, it is more reasonable to stay in our current house and look into adding or doing a second story addition for more for space, or is it more economical or sensible to sell our current home and buy "up?"
June Fletcher: It all depends on whether or not you're happy with your current neighborhood. If you currently have a low fixed-rate mortgage and a lot of equity built up, I'd consider staying. But look for a home equity loan rather than a home-equity line of credit (aka HELOC) because rates are rising.
If you do decide to trade up, wait a while. Prices are softening in the metro area, and you'll get a better deal in a few months.
The land of pheasant living: I plan on staying in my home for at least 3-5 years more. I'd like to move at that time. My home is currently appraised at $280,000, but the mortgage is only $160,000. Do I have anything to be worried about if the real estate market drops?
June Fletcher: You don't say where you live, but if you're going to be here up to five years, you shouldn't worry. All that matters is the state of the housing market when you sell, and five years from now, it will be a whole new ball game.
Rockville, Md.: We're a pretty young couple with a child and relatively new to this area. We have no debt besides some student loans and a car we're almost done paying off. My husband and I both contribute to our 401K as well to our savings account for our "emergency fund." We're saving up money for our first home, and needless to say with homes in this area it seems like a slow process. We both have excellent credit. Given the fact that we both want to stay in a house we buy for a long time, and are not looking for something super fancy, I'm beginging to consider a 30 year fixed loan where you finance 80 percent and the 20 percent downpayment. What should I consider in these types of loans?
June Fletcher: Good for you for being almost debt-free! And you are right to want to put 20% down to avoid private mortgage insurance, which is basically a boon to lenders with no benefit to you.
There are many loans these days that don't require a 20% down payment. Most require that you take on a higher-interest loan for the balance, however. Unless you have a sizeable emergency fund built up, I'd be cautious about taking one on.
Fortunately for you, the housing market is softening, so I expect there will be deals for you soon--including seller financing, which won't have PMI.
Greenbelt, Md.: A comment: If you're looking to buy a place, you might want to let your circle of friends in on the secret. I had done that back in the late 1990s, and one day my friends called to say they were moving in together and were looking to get rid of one of their two condos for a price that equalled the balance of the mortgage? Almost seven years later, I still live in that condo with a nice low mortgage payment, those friends got married and bought themselves a detached house and everybody's happy.
June Fletcher: That's a great idea--You also avoid having to pay a broker's fee. But be sure to have a competent attorney review the deal, and be diligent about having all inspections done prior to closing the sale. I'd also make sure I purchased title insurance.
Washington, DC: Hi Mrs. Singletary,
My friend needs help with his finances. He a 35 years old man and he lives with his parents. He's been married twice and has no children. Michael is in debt up to his eyes. He's employed with the Federal Government and makes a pretty good salary and a Drug Testing Technician.
Could you help him or suggest a financial planner who can set down and work with him in getting his financial life on track.
Michelle Singletary: Well, can't help your friend in this chat, but why don't you e-mail me and I'll see if I can give him a recommendation of where to go to get help.
Also, for local residents (DC, MD, VA.) I'm about to start taping for the second season of my television show for TV One called "Singletary Says" (airs on local cable and on channel 241 on Direct TV every Wed. at 8:30 p.m.) In the show I visit folks in their homes and help them come up with a way to address whatever financial issue they are dealing with. Sounds like your friend might be perfect for the show. In fact, I'm currently looking for families (grown folks living with parents and parents who want them OUT, engaged couples planning a wedding, families that relocated because of Katrina, parents who want to stop overindulging their kids etc.) So if you are interested in the possibility of being on the show e-mail me at singletarym@washpost.com. In the subject line put "Singletary Says."
Now back to the regularly scheduled chat!
Columbia, Md.: Michelle and June,
I'm about to relocate for a promotion to the suburban Philadelphia area from suburban Baltimore. It looks like we'll get a little more bang for our buck in that market, but are anxious because my wife and I have never relocated in a hurry like this before. We should have about $120K in equity to work with. Do you have any suggestions as to things to watch out for as we make this leap?
June Fletcher: You need to check on the quality of school districts (important even if you don't have kids, because it matters on resale), as well as how well other homes in the neighborhood have appreciated over time. Zillow.com is a good tool for checking this out, and real estate agents can help, too.
But what's the rush? Why not rent for a while until you get a better feel for where you want to live permanently? Rents are a great bargain in most places these days.
Bowie, Md.: How much of the house price spike (can't call it a bubble until it bursts) is driven by zoning?
When someone buys a home in community X, they also become a voter. And one of the things they do as a voter is to limit building of housing (particular housing costing less than theirs) to protect their quality of life, their investment and the ratio of their community's property taxes to services required.
I see plenty of land available to build housing on. And plenty of opposition from locals to putting it their.
June Fletcher: That's an interesting question; certainly NIMBYism does limit the supply of housing.
But this last boom was driven mostly by investors, economists say. (It's impossible to know how many investors are/were in the market, since they aren't always truthful about their living intentions on mortgage application forms, to avoid being slapped with a higher interest rate.) Now that investors are cashing out in droves, prices in many formerly hot markets (including DC) are softening, and inventory levels are way up.
Arlington, Va.: What's seller financing?
June Fletcher: That's where the seller provides the loan, instead of a bank. The terms are whatever you and the seller work out. It can be a great win-win situation, especially if the seller doesn't need a lot of cash all at once--for instance, a retired couple who are planning to rent and want a steady stream of income.
Arlington, Va.: Michelle, June -- thank you for taking my question.
My husband and I live in Arlington. We bought about five years ago, right before the prices really started rising. We could probably make a profit of at least $300K on the home, but still wouldn't be able to afford to buy another home in the area -- since they've all gone up.
So we'd like to expand the house. We have about $300K in equity in the home and our combined income is about $85K a year. Can we afford to renovate? What are our options?
June Fletcher: Certainly you can afford to renovate. Your choices are to get a fixed-rate home equity loan (which might be the best choice); a home equity line of credit (beware, because rates are variable and they're rising); or any sort of loan that you might arrange through your bank or credit union.
Be careful not to renovate above the current standards of the neighborhood, however. In other words, don't put in granite countertops if everyone else on your block has laminate.
Think before you buy: I bought a home three years ago. I had a decent amount of cash and great credit. I bought for a really stupid reason. I wanted people (friends, family) to THINK I had my financial act together. I did have it together but so many people were leaving apartments and buying homes -- I thought I needed to do that also. I married last year and we sold the house. I made a little bit but the home needed so much refreshing to be attractive and pleasant that all we did was work on it while I lived there. I deeply regret buying. I loved apartment life and loved just paying rent. I had a great apartment in a great part of town. My husband and I ran the numbers and if I had just rented I would have saved an additional $18,000. Too late now. Buy because YOU want too fix up a place, get a tax break, and take care of problems WHEN problems occur.
Michelle Singletary: Really, really good advice! I think in this overheated housing market people are forgetting that your house is your home.
Silver Spring, Md.: We are looking to buy our first home. We have $12K in savings and another $40K in our TSP that we could borrow (if necessary). We are looking at single family houses in the $300K range in up and coming neighborhoods along Route 1, inside the beltway (Hyattsville, Mt. Rainier). Do you think that the market will slow down significantly in this price range in these areas that are perceived as up and coming? Should we wait?
June Fletcher: Though retirement may be many years away for you, I'm not a big fan of borrowing from retirement to buy a home. I also think time is on your side. Builders are already offering incentives ranging from interest-rate buydowns to comped closing costs. Existing home owners will soon be offering goodies, too--and lowering prices. Time is on your side.
Michelle Singletary: And even if retiremetn isn't far off, says to me if you need to borrow from your retirement perhaps you can't afford to buy right now. I know people think well if I borrow from my retirement account at least I'm paying back myself back. But you are also removing money that won't earn any money and that is a loss you should factor into your decision.
RE: think before you buy: AMEN! I really regretted buying in my first year or two. I am finally resigned to it, but only because I had a flood that forced me to make changes -- which ended up with my having a more livable home.
Arlington, Va.: First, let me say that I sincerely appreciate your financial advice. However, this is the second chat in a row where you have prefaced a response with "I know some people may not agree with this," and continued to discuss the "moral implications" of specific actions (last time it was cohabitation, this time repaying debt instead of saving).
In a perfect world, the best financial solution is also the moral solution. However, we come to you for FINANCIAL advice. I believe your responses should suggest the best (legal) FINANCIAL decisions... and then let us decide for ourselves (or ask Carolyn Hax) whether said suggestions agree with our personal values.
Michelle Singletary: You are nuts!
With my financial advice comes my morals, viewpoints, knowledge, experience, etc. I'm as much a columnist and advice giver as Hax. And frankly if more people really thought about their financial decisions in the context of what is the right thing to do they wouldn't be in the mess they are in. For example, if people really, really understand what debt is they wouldn't charge on credit cards with no idea of how or when they will pay it off. I think of all the businesses that in good faith sell people things with the intention of being paid. Behind those goods or services are people who need to be paid. When we don't pay our obligations our actions affect others.
So you know what I will continue to preach against shacking up, or the moral obligation of paying your debts...that's what you get when you ask ME for my opinion. And I preach against these things because I see the results of when those relationships go bad or when people move in together to save money only to end up breaking up and breaking the bank. I know the stats. I know that marriage works and there are financial benefits you can't get if you live together.
As I've said before I'm not a REPORTER. I am a columnist and the Post pays me to write my opinions which come with my values.
And you know what you are free to disagree or ignore my advice. You are grown. I won't be mad. As long as I'm respectful to my readers this is what they get.
RE: Retirement borrowing: Great points, Michlelle. In addition, if you borrow against your retirement funds, you have a loan you must make payments on. You will be making these payments with money you could/should be putting into savings.
Michelle Singletary: Good point. Forgot that too!
Laurel, Md. (sigh): Ms. Feltcher, 12 years ago I bought an affordable house in Prince Georges County (in you don't understand the significance of that, ask Michelle) that met my needs.
Steady employment and pay raises later, I'm considering trading up and possibly changing jurisdictions. But desite what I read about housing bubbles and spikes, the most recent assessment of my comparables indicates that I've appredicated only about 75 percent in 12 years.
Some places, that might seem like a good investment; but in the D.C. area I feel like I bought Pets.com -- I can't really afford to move because everything else has appreciated more than my house.
June Fletcher: I sympathize. But housing is an investment, and therefore a gamble. It doesn't always pay off.
Does your house suit your needs? If so, then don't worry about appreciation rates. If it doesn't, then cut your losses and move. But make your housing decisions based first on your needs, not on money.
San Diego, Calif.: We're selling our condo in San Diego County before we reach the two year residence test to exclude capital gains taxes. We've worked out that it's not a terrible idea because housing prices are dropping here and we could lose more in selling price than we'd pay in taxes if we wait the five months to meet the two-year mark.
My question is how and when do we pay the tax? I've read IRS instructions which seem to suggest that all we do is report the gain (after excluding selling costs/etc.) on our 1040 schedule D next year when we file our 2006 taxes. But our realtor seems to think he's heard something about the government taking 30 percent at the time of the sale and then square up with us at tax time next year. I've never heard of this and can't find any reference to it on IRS.gov. who's right?
Michelle Singletary: First of all you really need to read up on the tax exclusion for home owners. If you sell BEFORE you reach the two out of five year residency requirement you WILL NOT get the tax break. You have it backwards. The rule is you have to live in your home two of the last five years to qualify for a $250,000 tax exclusion if you are single and $500,000 if you are married filing jointly.
If you qualify for the break, you typically just sign a document at settlement. Please consult someone than that knucklehead realtor you are dealing with. He or she should know this!
Michelle Singletary: I honestly can't believe the hour has passed already. I'm so sorry if we didn't get to your question. I will however, ask June if she will answer more questions that I'll print in either my column or in my weekly e-letter, which if you aren't subscribing to you will. (Go to the business section at the Post and click on personal finance and then my column and you'll see how).
Thanks to all you submitted questions. Thanks to all who don't mind my preaching/teaching. Really it's all in love and given with a desire to help you do the right thing with your money. Even if you disagree come back because trust me you will learn something. And if you already know it, pass the information along to someone who doesn't.
See you back here in two weeks.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Author June Fletcher joined Michelle Singletary for a discussion about this month's Color of Money Book Club selection -- "House Poor: Pumped-Up Prices, Rising Rates, and Mortgages on Steroids."
| 130.025641 | 0.948718 | 26.589744 |
high
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801221.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/28/DI2006042801221.html
|
Outlook: Realities of Guantanamo
|
2006050119
|
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba: It's a place of tropical beauty that hides a controversial reality -- the U.S. Naval base camps that house prisoners in the war against terrorism. Many of the men have been in detention awaiting charges for three years or more. Mahvish Khan , an Afghan American law student at the University of Miami, felt so strongly about the situation that she wangled her way into an interpreting assignment with American lawyers traveling to Guantanamo to represent the detainees in their petitions for habeas corpus before U.S. courts. She tells the story of her experiences in her Sunday Outlook article, "My Guantanamo Diary." Mahvish Khan was online from Guantanamo Monday, May 1, at noon ET to discuss her article and the realities of Guantanamo.
My Guantanamo Diary , ( Post, April 30, 2006 )
Mahvish Khan: Hi everyone, I'm in Guantanamo right now and welcome any questions.
Athol, Mass.: Can you help me understand why I should care about the treatment of individuals bent on killing me and/or my countrymen. Lincoln suspended habeas corpus during the Civil War, Roosevelt illegally placed thousands upon thousands of Japanese in camps during WWII and Wilson put the boots to the press (effectively suspending free-speech) during WWI.
Mahvish Khan: There's no evidence and nothing's been proven that these people actually were killing your children and your families. The whole purpose of having habeus corpus down there is to have a trial and if they're found guilty then lock them up and you don't have to care about people who've committed crimes. We don't know that they've committed crimes and there are laws of war for a reason.
Albany, N.Y.: Would closing the Guantanamo Bay prison camp reverse the damage this operation has done to the U.S.'s image abroad? Or is the taint to America's ostensibly pro-liberty and pro-freedom image irreversible in the eyes of the Muslim world?
Mahvish Khan: I think closing this detention center can help redeem some of the unlawful detentions, but what's going on in Guantanamo is abhorrent to the laws of our nation and habeus corpus pre-dates the Magna Carta and having the Guantanamo detention camps is an affront to international and domestic law. So putting an end to the detentions in Guantanamo can only begin to redeem the injustice that has been done by our country.
Urbana, Ill.: This open dialogue is great. Since the exposure of the conditions in the camps in the last year, do you know if there have been any improvements in the camp conditions?
Mahvish Khan: It depends on the camp that the detainee is in. Some of them are in complete solitary confinement and don't see the light of day for months. It's often arbitrary which camps they're placed in; some are given a checkerboard in solitary confinement but it's hard to play checkers by yourself. In Camp 4 for example detainees mingle with each other several times a day so there is someone they can speak with but it depends on where they are placed. Some of the Uighar detainees who have been deemed non-enemy combatants are housed in Camp Iguana and have a communal setting and get to watch movies, etc. But those are not enemy combatants and they are still being detained.
Detroit, Mich.: This article puts human face on the Guantanamo prisoners. We are paying huge bounties for the terrorist in poor war-ravaged countries, so it doesn't come as surprise that many innocent end up in our hands. If our government has solid cases against these prisoners couldn't they provide them with speedier trials? How many prisoners have been found innocent so far and released? Once released, one could imagine that many of them await brutal treatment in their own countries, so what does our government do to ensure their safety?
Mahvish Khan: I don't know the numbers of people who have been released; some have been released but it's totally based on military discretion. Some fear that when they are released they are released to their home countries where they will later be imprisoned and some face torture in certain Middle Eastern countries. To my knowledge the U.S. hasn't done anything to ensure their safety upon their release. Regarding the speedier trials, they aren't afforded civilian trials in the sense that we know and the government is fighting what habeus counsel are trying to provide. Currently all they're being given generally is military hearings where they have no lawyer and most of the witnesses they want to call are deemed not presently available because they are outside of the country, they don't have an investigator to gather evidence and the attorneys who are representing the clients feel that their military hearings are not fair and not impartial. On a side note about the bounties, for example Afghanistan has a per capita income in 2005 $288 per year so when the U.S. military drops leaflets offering millions of dollars to pay for an entire tribe's cattle and school. Specifically they were giving $5000-$25,000 to turn in anybody who was Talib or al Qaeda member. In a country with such a low per capita income, that kind of money goes a long way.
Silver Spring, Md.: Are the Gitmo prisoners and personnel supervised in an effective way, for example, by video camera reviewed by independent viewers, to prevent torture of prisoners?
Mahvish Khan: No, there's no video cameras to monitor if torture is occurring but the interrogations are recorded by the government.
Salt Lake City, Utah: I worked as an interrogator at Gitmo for the Department of Defense from 2002 to 2003. I interrogated many prisoners, and recommended many for release to their home countries. My question is, of the 180+ detainees that have been released from Gitmo so far, what compensation have they received for the time they have been incarcerated, kept away from family and friends, and deprived of liberty and the pursuit of happiness?
Thank you for your work and dedication to ensuring adherence to human rights and dignity.
Mahvish Khan: To my knowledge the detainees that have been released haven't received any form of monetary compensation or otherwise for their wrongful detention.
Washington D.C.: Ms. Khan - can you answer a question?
Is there a SINGLE inmate/detainee presently - right now, in real-time - at Guantanamo who has actually been determined by ANY tribunal (military or other) to be an anti-U.S.. terrorist actually involved in any attack on the U.S. or U.S. forces?
My understanding is that, at maximum, there have never even been 10% of the Guantanamo detainees even formally accused of any specific action hostile to the U.S. or Coalition forces. A large number seem to have been "sold" to the U.S. by bounty hunters, and some other detainees seem to have been collected entirely by accident.
Mahvish Khan: According to the recently published statistical reports based on unclassified government documents (by Seton Hall University), 86% of the detainees were sold into captivity, 5% are there as a result of U.S. intelligence and there have been no fair trials and impartial hearings to determine whether the allegations that many of these prisoners face are true. While all of the detainees I have encountered have been accused of hostilities against U.S. and Coalition forces, because they have not been allowed to bring forth evidence and have fair representation of their side of the stories, many of these men are being detained on the flimsiest of allegations, often hearsay reports, and when they ask who their accusers are and for the evidence against them they're often told that the evidence is classified, so they have no way of refuting it.
Pittsburgh, Pa.: Thank you for the work you are doing and for your excellent article. I also read "Wilting Dreams" by P. Sabin Willett (WP 4-27) and cannot express how ashamed the treatment of these individuals makes me. What in your opinion can the average citizen do to help?
Mahvish Khan: I would say write to your Congressmen and Senators and forward those articles around. It's important for Americans to know whose in Guantanamo and to be informed and to speak out against the injustice that are ongoing in Guantanamo.
New York, N.Y.: I am from Pakistan and completely understand the feelings you expressed in the article. I think it is difficult to comment whether one is guilty or not just by listening to him/her once. No offence, but when its emotional, you tend to think more from heart than mind. It's probably more likely that they did something wrong without any intention to harm the U.S. Having said that, I really appreciate whatever you are doing to help those people getting the fair treatment and justice; it really requires a courage, not many people have. Thank you!
Mahvish Khan: I've seen the military charge sheets, I've read the transcripts of hearings and my belief is that this is not based on emotional attachment but after analyzing the allegations and the complete lack of evidence that the U.S. has on many of these men, I came to that conclusion. For example, Dr. Shah is accused of associating with the Taliban. He spent 12 years in exile in Iran while the Taliban were in power. The Taliban looted his personal property and estate while he was in Iran, only when the Taliban fell did he return to his country and he was arrested two days later. The allegations against him have not been substantiated. This is a man who worked closely with the U.N. to encourage Afghan electoral support. He was in support of the Karzai administration and wanted nothing to do with the Taliban.
Washington, D.C.: The article did a nice job of pointing out that there may be some innocent people in the prison. But comparing to the justice handed out to Americans in all Muslim countries, where an American is very likely to find his head separated from his body without any kind of trial, these people are not getting too bad of a deal and in the end will get their day in court and may be freed (the U.S. has released many prisoners from Guantanamo and no one has been executed yet). There were more than 11,000 terrorist attacks last year by Muslims (about 30 a day). When you pray for these prisoners, I hope you also say a prayer for all terrorists' victims and their families.
Mahvish Khan: Of course my heart goes out to victims of terrorism, but just because there are acts of terrorism occurring around the world doesn't mean we should strip people of their natural right to a trial.
Silver Spring, Md.: How were you able to visit Guantanamo? Can any U.S. citizen get permission to go there?
Mahvish Khan: I had to go through a rigorous six month security clearance and my purpose was to travel with the habeus team. Any citizen cannot go to Guantanamo unless cleared by the State Department. Some journalists are allowed to go but have not been allowed to meet detainees.
Toronto, Canada: In answer to your first questioner -- I encourage them to try reading some of the transcripts from the Combatant Status Review Tribunals, and from the more recent Administrative Review Boards. They are online. Here is the URL: Combatant Status Review Tribunal and Administrative Review Board Documents (U.S. Dept. of Defense)
I am sure if he or she reads half a dozen they will be sure to come across some detainees where they must admit there is doubt about their guilt. I am sure if he or she reads a dozen they will be convinced some of the detainees are completely innocent.
Mahvish Khan: Furthermore, as is also written in my article, I quoted the military presiding officer of Dr. Shah's military hearing and this military judge stated that he "couldn't believe" that Dr. Shah was flown all the way over to Cuba. He said that no matter what accusations somebody brought against him he found it very difficult to believe that he is guilty. And yet he has sat for the last few years in prison.
Albany, N.Y.: The US government seems to make no distinctions between terrorists from any countries--inmates at Guantanamo Bay hail from nearly 50 countries. Why are there no U.S. citizens detained at Guantanamo?
Mahvish Khan: Guantanamo Bay is a place where only aliens and non-U.S. citizens have been held. It is outside of U.S. jurisdiction and that has allowed the administration to create legal loopholes and strip the legal rights of prisoners.
Reston, Va.: In what specific respects is the prison illegal and unconstitutional?
Mahvish Khan: The right of habeus corpus is enshrined in our constitution and it forces the jailer to show why he is holding somebody prisoner. It's also unconstitutional in that these detainees have been given no legal recourse, they have not been afforded the right to a trial or lawyers. There's hearsay evidence used against them in their military commissions. In addition to violating domestic law, it violates international law, the Geneva Conventions and it goes against past historical U.S. precedent.
Detroit, Mich.: Do you know if there is a time-line for closing of the prison?
From the recently published list of the prisoners, I was surprised that in addition to the "regular suspects" (Afghans, Arabs, Pakistanis) that there are also prisoners from less suspecting countries like China. It seems absurd that Chinese are terror suspects.
Besides the somewhat random list of their country of origin, the common link between the prisoners seem to be that they are Muslim and not white. Do you think that racism is a part of the reason for the horrible treatment that is inflicted upon them?
Mahvish Khan: I don't know if racism is the reason they have been treated the way they are. To my knowledge there is no plan to close the prison; in fact they are in the process of building another detention facility called Camp Six. So in fact it appears as though they're expanding. With regard to the Chinese detainees, those are the Uighars and they've been designated as non-enemy combatants.
Toronto, Canada: Thanks for your excellent, important article.
About a year ago, when the DoD let a BBC crew interview some of the enlisted staff, they broadcast a short interview with one guard, who made two points. (1) He expressed a sense of helplessness, that the prisoners could throw bodily waste on them, or threaten them, and they had no means to retaliate; (2) "Half of the guys here killed an American soldier".
The soldier's notion was absurd, of course. I checked. About 190 GIs had died in Afghanistan, at that point -- most of them long after most detainees had been captured.
Have any of the staff there expressed similarly misinformed notions to you, on your visits?
Mahvish Khan: I have heard in the past of detainees, I don't know how many or how frequently, throwing feces or urine on guards. But I don't believe that means they are guilty of anything other than that in and of itself.
Mahvish Khan: I'd like to thank everybody for your interest in the story. I've enjoyed speaking with you. I hope you continue your interest in what's going on here.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Mahvish Khan, a law student at the University of Miami who has been translating for lawyers representing Guantanamo Bay detainees, discusses her Sunday Outlook article, "My Guantanamo Diary."
| 88.147059 | 0.941176 | 5.764706 |
high
|
medium
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042600705.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2006/04/26/DI2006042600705.html
|
Workplace Diversity
|
2006050119
|
Jill Dutt , assistant managing editor for financial news at The Washington Post, was online to discuss workplace diversity. An article she wrote examining Lockheed Martin's efforts to create a more diverse company is part of the Post 200 , the annual report on the Washington area's top companies.
Jill Dutt: Hi, everyone! Thanks for participating in this chat. I am in *sunny*, actually rainy, Minneapolis today attending a convention of business editors and writers. My Internet connection is a little funky, so please bear with me if I drop out for a couple of minutes if my connection goes down. But I'll keep my fingers crossed that won't happen. So, onto your questions
USA: I am a patent examiner - I've been one for almost a decade. When I started out, everything seemed good - however, as I got promoted up the ranks and entered law school, I noticed that I started being treated differently and unfairly. I notice that the Patent Office does not seem to value a diverse workforce, and mistreats especially it's African-American patent examiners with law degrees. There are almost no African-American employees in top level management positions. I don't believe that all African-Americans are unqualified and that this is the reason why they have not emerged into these ranks. What advice could you give to me and other African-American employees at the USPTO in terms of braving the environment there? What advice could you give to US Patent & Trademark Officials themselves in terms of how to handle workforce diversity?
Jill Dutt: First, let me say that I'm a reporter and editor who just published a story today about how one company, Lockheed Martin, approaches the challenge of managing a diverse workforce. I am NOT a diversity expert, so I can't really give advice about what companies and agencies should be doing, but I can tell you what experts and managers told me.
So, first to the specifics of your question: you see few role models, people of color in authority at your agency. Second, you don't feel your ideas are valued.
Smart companies today recognize that they have to do more than just hire people of different race and ethnicity. They have to make sure their management chain of command inspires and acts on the diverse ideas and approaches that come up from a diverse workforce. So, one thing some companies do is conduct 360-degree evaluations of their managers to see if they are inspiring and acting on good ideas, or are stuck in their old ways. Companies are also requiring managers to come up with more specific succession plans, so if a mid-level manager is leaving his or her post,the more senior manager has assessed all available candidates and has a good pipeline of diverse people to choose from. This is an attempt to get away from just the "old-boy network" and going to the go-to person.
Tying a manager's bonus to these metrics seems to focus the mind.
Baltimore, MD: How does an organization/business get past the lip-service concept of internal diversity? Moving from saying it's important to actually instituting policies that make a difference? Lessons learned?
Jill Dutt: Take a look at three stories we published in the Business section today. Lockheed, for example, took a system engineer's approach to your question. It broke down all the management steps needed to create a more inclusive environment and now ranks each business unit on how "mature" its diversity programs are. These include not only recruiting strategies, but also management succession plans, leadership training opportunities, etc. I spent four days at Lockheed watching two very skilled executives doing their things and it was instructive to watch how they integrated their business decisions with their personnel management issues.
One specific thing is thinking about diversity as diversity of ideas and experience, not race and gender. The manager's role is to apply that wealth of diverse experience to current business opportunities and find more creative ways to get that business.
washingtonpost.com: Here are the three articles Jill mentioned: Taking an Engineer's Approach at Lockheed Martin ; Big Companies Widen Their Networks ; Multicultural Marketplace Shows Need For Diversity
Washington, D.C.: More of a comment than a question. Lockheed Martin, and many other companies, offer domestic partner health benefits to their employees as part of their diversity efforts to recruit and retain the best talent. The federal government is really behind the ball on this and other issues important to the gay and lesbian community. Obviously, there are political reasons for that, but I imagine that as the government's policies ignore this facet of diversity, Agencies will have a hard time competing for talent with companies like Lockheed Martin.
Jill Dutt: As skilled employees look for places to work, the policies and benefits being offeredby possible employers are becoming increasingly important. People are looking for places where their ideas will be valued and that they will be comfortable.
Bethesda, Maryland: Do you think Lockheed Martin will be able to change the definition of "diversity" outside their company?
Washington Post writers, like most people outside Lockheed Martin, are almost always referring to race and gender representation when talking about a political "diversity appointment" or a business making a "diversity hire".
Lockheed Martin seems to be fighting an uphill battle to redefine the word diversity to mean "an inclusive culture" rather than "diverse representation of races and genders".
Jill Dutt: Bob Stevens, Lockheed's chief executive, has focused on changing the notion of "diversity" within his company. As more people learn about Lockheed's approach, I'll bet he will be asked to share his perspective with other Fortune 500 companies.
A key insight, I think, is that hiring "diverse" employees is not enough. Corporate cultures need to find a way to allow those diverse ideas filter through and reshape a company's approach to its core business.
Burke, VA: Do you know of any plans (at Lockheed or anywhere else) to ensure that the so-called "corporate culture" does not discriminate against those of us who come in from different cultures and may exhibit behaviors that are culturally-rather than performance-based? One example could be sustaining eye contact during interviews, another showing an inordinate level of respect for figures of authority, or even frequently touching others.
Jill Dutt: I talked to managers about these cultural differences and what I heard back is that these are things people need to be talking about within their workplaces. When people notice these little things, sustaining eye contact or, the inverse of never making direct eye contact, there should be a way of bringing up these different styles, to understand the cultural influence behind them. Too often, people make assumptions about what these small differences mean, seen only through the prism of their own personal experiences.
Washington, DC: Dear Ms. Dutt:
I have a question about the definition of "workplace diversity." It appears that the term has come to mean diversity only in terms of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc.
I happen to believe that "workplace diversity" should also refer to employees having myriad opinions and perspectives. For example, on the surface, my agency is very diverse. However, my officemates are ALL Democrats. As a moderate Republican, they'll often dismiss my perspective by saying "I don't know anyone else that thinks like you." Since when is hearing different opinions a bad thing?
My point is that diversity has to go beyond the surface to include our thoughts and minds. Groupthink is never healthy for any organization and I fear that, in our politically correct world, in seeking out diversity, we are missing the forest for the trees.
Jill Dutt: You make a key point about "groupthink." Over and over again, when I talked to senior executives, they say they fear this. Smart companies recognize that they will lose their edge if everyone approaches topics from the same experience and cultural base. This is a key reason that "diversity" is taking on a meaning much broader than just race and sex.
Washington, DC: Hi Jill. I am an interior architect who worked in Alexandria VA until last August and now works in DC. Is this diversity thing inclusive of gay & lesbian employees? Is the diversity drive also inclusive of us? I worked for a nation-wide firm until last August in Alexandria since May of 2003. Until December of 2004, I'd worked in a tightly-knit group who worked on a major government project. Everyone on that project was aware that I was gay and seemed to not care. AI&E firms are notoriously gossipy and my status leaked into the rest of the office. When I went to work on projects that were part of the rest of the office, I found that, although my previous project managers had praised my work, none of the non-government project managers wanted to use me, even though there was a need on their projects. After about 7 months of forcing my way into projects, getting told I wasn't working up to speed and even being accused of making a pass at a client (which was a complete fabrication) I put in my notice. When I asked to project managers whom I'd worked on the governmental projects with advice on what was my downfall, they quietly confided that the male project managers (architects) were uncomfortable with me because I was gay.
Jill Dutt: It sounds like that Alexandria firm lost a valued employee because it was not an inclusive environment. I did sense that top executives at big companies recognize the business imperative in bringing out the best in everyone, but I am not so naive as to think that every company, every manager is going to change overnight. I wish you the best as you look for the right place to succeed.
Burke, VA: I'm glad to hear that! However--is any of these employers being proactive and ensuring that these discussions actually take place--i.e., the effect of cultural differences on the day-to-day workplace. As you so well describe it, my concern is that people do notice the little things (such as sustaining eye contact or never making direct eye contact), and that an organization's leaders need to take it upon themselves to bring up these different styles, to help their employees understand the assumptions we make. Do you know whether anyone is doing anything about this aspect of managing a diverse workforce? Thanks!
Jill Dutt: Some companies, like Lockheed and Marriott, do extensive employee surveys. Issues like this should be captured in questions about how comfortable employees feel with their work environment. If a manager comes out of a survey appearing to be tone-deaf about such matters, that could be part of their annual evaluation, in which they receive encouragement to have more open conversation about such things. As our moms said, it's the little things that count.
Annandale, VA: Yeah, groupthink, that's a good term. Like when a corporate boss told me he couldn't hire me for a position in 1975 because he "had to hire Black." When I told a Black co-worker that story year's later she said, "he shouldn't have told you." I guess that's an example of groupthink, if you are a white male take it on the chin because you don't matter.
Jill Dutt: That sounds like short-sighted thinking from someone who doesn't get what diversity really means. White men, I know plenty of them, and they are incredibly diverse.
Washington, D.C.: Do you foresee any changes for the positive in the field of Diversity Management within the Federal Government, despite the poor track record shown by most agencies so far?
Jill Dutt: I didn't talk with anyone from the federal government in preparation for this story. I know that Steve Barr, our fabulous Post columnist who writes the Federal Diary, delves into this topic a lot. Perhaps you could direct your question to his next chat? I'll be very interested in his answer.
washingtonpost.com: Federal Diary Column Archive
Washington, DC: I'd just like to make a plug for including people with disabilities in corporate (all) "diversity" programs. It's amazing how often race = diversity. With a staggering 70% unemployment rate among people with disabilities, companies, needing to address workforce shortages in the coming years, should be looking, now, at this under employed, yet extremely talented group of Americans. People with disabilities have so much to offer and with just a little foresight from companies in terms of accommodations, which often benefit their entire workforce, they can be reaching out to a group ready and willing to work. They obviously need to be paid a living wage (as do all workforce groups, including immigrants), but employing people with disabilities could offer a double benefit by removing their dependency on social security and thus potentially helping decrease the coming crisis in that public program (in 2030 only 2.2 workers per beneficiary will be contributing compared to 42 workers per beneficiary in 1945!!)
Is there any concern in the diversity field that evolutionary psychology will show real difference in average intelligence and/or professional inclinations of people of different genders and ethnic groups/races, and that the cause may be partially genetic?
Jill Dutt: I didn't hear anything about that. But, you know, what does average intelligence really have to do with business success. You can have a company full of people with outstanding IQs and the company can fail spectacularly. There is book smart, social smart, strategic smart, tactical smart, and lots of other smarts. Top companies are looking for ways to capture all those different intelligences to improve their bottom lines.
Woodslawn, Maryland: In your article of Workplace diversity, you state that there is confusion with the term "diversity". Some people believed that workplace diversity means your race, culture, and sex.
Are you making the point that diversity is really the learning styles of individuals in the workplace?
Jill Dutt: Different learning styles is certainly part of it. Age is also part of it, especially at big companies like Lockheed, where top jobs are dominated by people over 50. It's great to have so much experience and wisdom, people there say, but they need to encourage the younger generation to come forward with meaningful ideas. Especially folks who have graduated in the past few years, the kids who grew up with the Internet, cell phones, instant messaging and, yes, Nintendo. They have lived an "always-on," "total information" environment and could have very good ideas about how to tie together our communication networks and what privacy and personal issues arise.
Diversity in perspective seems to be increasingly important to managers.
Arlington, Va.: So at all these companies that are strategically pursuing diversity, aren't a lot of the middle- to upper-level managers -- the ones who have to carry these policies out -- likely to be people who have political misgivings about any kind of diversity imperative? Doesn't that create a disconnect that undermines the end result?
Jill Dutt: Middle-management jobs are TOUGH. Managers do need to make their numbers, to fulfill the company's commitment to shareholders. How managers make those numbers is the key: good managers can inspire their team, can bring out creative ideas that make people say, "wow" and win new business. Global competition is constantly bringing new ideas to the fore and companies need to stay ahead of that change with their own new ideas. Tapping a rich pool of diverse employees is an increasingly important way to stay ahead, experts say.
Also, if managers have a portion of their bonus tied to their success at managing an inclusive environment, they will be incentivized to push on this.
Annandale, VA: You might not print this, but it's one story. I graduated a poor white male with a BA college degree in 79 and have found myself the low guy in the workforce hierarchy with affirmative action since then. I worked hard and all I saw is how diversity is more important than promoting a hard-working white male with medium intelligence. I got out of the Federal work force in the 80s because of it and worked for many minority-owned 8A firms (which I couldn't create). I did well in those small firms but didn't realize the capital gains that they created for themselves. There are many like me who see diversity as being "anybody but you." I gave up a long time ago trying to climb a management ladder. Good luck to the next generation--maybe it will be less discriminating.
Jill Dutt: There are plenty of workplaces out there that are clueless about good management. If someone is hard-working and has good ideas, there ought to be ways for their ideas to be valued, their talents to be recognized. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. I wish you luck as you pursue your career.
Bowie, MD: As much as companies try to diversify their workforce, an old boy network still exists. I used to work for Northrop Grumman, and it was that way. People set in their ways and thoughts. As much as companies try and market themselves as being diversified, most of the company doesn't care because the bottom line is there's still work to be done regardless, and work is what pays the bills, not diversity.
Jill Dutt: I hear what you're saying. Diversity consultants and corporate executives say the best corporations now get that the bottom line is directly connected to increasing diversity of the workforce. Tom Watson of Strategichire notes that in the Washington region, we're going to be a majority minority area within the next 5-10 years. If customers are increasingly diverse, a company would be foolish and its CEO derelict (Tom says) if they don't change their approach and really embrace diversity. In my story today, I noted how Lockheed was able to shape a contract to track "deadbeat dads" for the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement, by relying on a female manager who could see the big picture of how to help single-mother households. Linda Gooden, president of Lockheed Martin Information Technology, said she believed a man could have done a good job directing that contract, but the woman did bring a certain level of passion and creativity that made the work Lockheed did special.
Orange, CT: What have you seen are characteristics of companies that are good at promoting an inclusive work environment?
Jill Dutt: Good question. First, the mandate comes from the top, from the chief executive, and even the corporation's board of directors. Second, there are clear policies and even written instructions for managers to follow. The more managers know, specifically, about what is expected of them, the better they perform. Third, there is a robust feedback loop, in which employees either by name or anonymously, feel comfortable telling managers whether their tactics are working or not. Fourth, add measurement tools. Benchmark where a company is today vs. best practices, and then set goals for improvement that are measured regularly.
Jill Dutt: Looks like time is up. Many thanks for all your good questions.
Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
|
Jill Dutt, assistant managing editor for financial news at The Washington Post, was online to discuss workplace diversity and the annual Post 200 listing of the top companies in the Washington region.
| 106.333333 | 0.944444 | 7.388889 |
high
|
high
|
mixed
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100602.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100602.html
|
Darfur Rebels Reject Sudan Peace Offer
|
2006050119
|
ABUJA, Nigeria -- Darfur rebels have bickered among themselves, violated a cease-fire and even been accused of attacking peacekeepers. Now they risk being seen as standing in the way of an agreement to stop the bloodshed in one of the saddest places in the world.
With a midnight Tuesday deadline approaching after more than two years of talks here, Sudan's government said it was ready to sign a peace accord with the rebels from the western Sudanese region of Darfur.
But the rebels, suspicious of the government's intentions, rejected the agreement proposed by the African Union. They said it did not guarantee enough political power for Darfur or provide enough detail on how it would be implemented.
"We are not ready to sign until the Sudanese give concessions to our demands," said Ahmed Hussein, a spokesman for one of two rebel factions. In rejecting the African Union draft, he said he was speaking on behalf of both his Justice and Equality Movement and the other main rebel group, the Sudan Liberation Movement.
Mediators who proposed the peace deal had originally demanded the rebels and Sudan's government accept it by Sunday. As negotiations bogged down, they extended talks for 48 hours and called on the rebels to accept what they may see as an imperfect document.
"You have made many sacrifices in your struggle for your people," African Union mediator Salim Ahmed Salim told the rebels in a statement Monday. "Now is the time for you to show leadership and make the compromises necessary for peace, for the sake of the people of Darfur."
In accepting the draft, the Sudanese government agreed to disarm militia it is accused of unleashing on Darfur civilians, commit millions of dollars to rebuilding a region devastated by poverty and war, and compensate victims of the fighting, Salim said.
Fighting in Darfur has killed tens of thousands and forced millions more from their homes. Both sides have been repeatedly accused of violating a cease-fire, including attacks on African Union peacekeepers. Infighting among the rebels has complicated the talks.
The rebel groups are fighting the government for more control over their region, though they have also battled each other for territory. The Justice and Equality Movement is closely linked to Islamic fundamentalists. The Sudan Liberation Movement _ which started fighting for more governing autonomy for Darfur in February 2003 _ split in November, and both factions have sent representatives to the talks.
"Probably at the mega level they're fighting the same government for the same reasons, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they'll all agree on what the solutions are," said John Ashworth, who advises church peace groups on Sudan.
Still, he said the rebels may have cause to worry about the eagerness of the government to sign the African Union deal.
"I'm not at all surprised that the rebels are not accepting the peace deal. Why should they? It's never going to be implemented," Ashworth said. "The government is just going to undermine it every way they can."
|
ABUJA, Nigeria -- Darfur rebels have bickered among themselves, violated a cease-fire and even been accused of attacking peacekeepers. Now they risk being seen as standing in the way of an agreement to stop the bloodshed in one of the saddest places in the world.
| 11.470588 | 1 | 51 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001219.html%20
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001219.html
|
Out of Diversity, a Unanimous Demand
|
2006050119
|
Thousands of people poured into Washington on trains, in buses and in cars from across the country yesterday. Evangelicals joined Hollywood entertainers, black civil rights leaders joined conservatives, and politicians from both parties spoke in unison on the same stage.
But among the largest contingents at yesterday's "Rally to Stop Genocide" on the Mall were Jewish Americans, who said they were appalled by the violence in Sudan.
Vladimir Vishnevskiy, of the Jewish Community House of Bensonhurst in Brooklyn, came to Washington with two busloads of Holocaust survivors, World War II veterans and youths.
"This is extremely important," he said. "We are Russian Jews, people who know firsthand what hate and the Holocaust and genocide is about."
It is unclear how many Jewish Americans were among those at the rally, but they were among the most visible, wearing shirts or clutching signs that read, "Not On Our Watch" and "Dare to Interfere in Darfur" and "Never Again," the latter a reference to the Holocaust. They came as part of Jewish youth groups, community centers or religious groups; they were teenagers, parents and grandparents.
Fourteen-year-old Sabrina Kestenbaum donned the same bright-yellow T-shirt -- bearing a bull's-eye on a map of Africa and the words "Darfur 'Never Again' " -- as classmates from the Abraham Joshua Heschel School in Manhattan.
She said she was overwhelmed by the crowds and surprised by how many people she knew.
"We see a lot of Jewish kids that we recognize from other schools," she said.
"Or from camp," added her friend, Susan Moskovits.
Gary and Mira Foote came with members of Beth Shalom Congregation in Westminster, Md. As the Footes headed to the Metro station for the two-hour trip home, an African American woman going to the rally spotted one of the "Never Again" signs their children were carrying and stopped them.
"Can I borrow that?" the woman asked.
The rally included people from a broad spectrum of racial, ethnic and religious groups -- many of whom have different interests and agendas. It had been a long time since an issue has brought ordinary blacks and Jews together, said Mira Foote, a public school teacher.
|
Get Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia news. Includes news headlines from The Washington Post. Get info/values for Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia homes. Features schools, crime, government, traffic, lottery, religion, obituaries.
| 9.695652 | 0.456522 | 0.543478 |
low
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001060.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001060.html
|
In 'Darfur Is Dying,' The Game That's Anything But
|
2006050119
|
In the online game "Darfur Is Dying," launched at yesterday's Save Darfur rally on the Mall, atrocity is a click of a mouse away. A player can be a 14-year-old girl in a blue dress with white polka dots named Elham, in search of water for her camp, chased by gun-carrying Janjaweed militiamen. Run, Elham, run!
Suddenly a game that takes no more than 15 minutes to play seems too real and not real enough at the same time.
Sponsored by Reebok and MTVu, the college-oriented TV network, and designed by a group of students at University of Southern California, "Darfur Is Dying" is part of a growing but still nascent "games for change" movement within video games. This movement is not about the alien fighters of "Halo or the sprawling fantasyland of "World of Warcraft" or the action-packed "Madden NFL." It's about "very serious subjects that are meant to be taken seriously," said Susana Ruiz, 33, one of the game's designers. "Food Force," a game about world hunger developed by the United Nations, served as a model for her, Ruiz explained.
The game is available free at The game is available free athttp://www.DarfurIsDying.com , and yesterday Joey Cheek, the Olympic gold-medal speedskater who donated his $25,000 prize money to the children of Darfur, was on hand to be the first to play the game, which has a simple, two-level structure. The player is either inside a refugee camp, collecting food and building shelter, or is outside foraging for water.
"We got captured by the militiamen!" Cheek, 26, said to no one in particular. "We gotta get the water!"
Standing less than five feet from Cheek, not too far from a guy walking with a poster that read " 'Schindler's List,' 'The Killing Fields,' 'Hotel Rwanda' . . . 'Darfur, 2006' . . . Don't wait for the movie,' " was John Keenan, a freshman at George School, a Quaker boarding school in Newtown, Pa. The 15-year-old said: "I'm a gamer, but I don't know how I really feel about making a game out of what's going on. I mean, I don't think you can get a real experience of being a Darfurian refugee by playing a game on the computer."
Added Loren Berlin, 28, a graduate student at the University of North Carolina: "I'm not a gamer, but I know that having a game about Darfur reaches out to lots of young people out there who are clueless about what's going on. But on the other hand, in this age when so much information is on the Internet, do we really need a game -- a game -- to remind people that something so terrible is happening in the Sudan?"
Among the hundreds of college and high school students gathered at the rally, Berlin and Keenan represent the Facebook-MySpace-Friendster generation of young activists who have used the Internet as a crash course on everything they know about the crisis in Darfur. Via message boards and instant messages, they share what they know and show where they've been. Online, the world seems smaller, more immediate, more personal, they say. Anne Eichmeyer and Ryan Pfeffer, for example, were busy taking digital pictures of the rally to post on their Facebook accounts. "It's for our friends who couldn't make it here," said Pfeffer, who like Eichmeyer is a student at the University of Wisconsin. They've both heard of the game and are eager to give it a try.
Zac Childers, a senior at American University, is eager to play the game, too. But he's one of the those guys who'd rather skateboard down Constitution Avenue -- he skateboarded his way to the rally -- than play "Tony Hawk's Underground," a popular skateboarding game. The 23-year-old is skeptical of the game, how "real" and "unreal" it might feel as he plays it, how it "seems to objectify and trivialize" what he considers "something that has to be as serious as possible for all for us."
|
In the online game "Darfur Is Dying," launched at yesterday's Save Darfur rally on the Mall, atrocity is a click of a mouse away. A player can be a 14-year-old girl in a blue dress with white polka dots named Elham, in search of water for her camp, chased by gun-carrying Janjaweed militiamen. Run,...
| 12.144928 | 0.985507 | 67.014493 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043000869.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043000869.html
|
A New Strategy on Iran
|
2006050119
|
The United States and Iran are playing programmed roles in a minuet on nuclear weapons. The United States pushes the U.N. Security Council to warn Iran about the consequences of going nuclear. And Iran continues its march toward development of nuclear power, even as its president declares that "we don't give a damn" about U.N. resolutions calling on Iran to suspend its uranium enrichment.
With the Russians and Chinese seemingly determined to block sanctions, our efforts at the United Nations promise to evolve slowly while Iran presses ahead with its plans. If we stay on the same path, we will be left with two choices: accept the reality of Iran's nuclear weapons capability or take military action to set back its ambitions.
Either outcome could prove disastrous. If Iran succeeds, in all likelihood we will face a nuclear Middle East. The Saudis -- fearing an emboldened Iran determined to coerce others and to promote Shiite subversion in the Arabian Peninsula -- will seek their own nuclear capability, and probably already have a deal with Pakistan to provide it should Iran pose this kind of threat. And don't expect Egypt to be content with Saudi Arabia's being the only Arab country with a nuclear "deterrent."
As for those who think that the nuclear deterrent rules that governed relations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War will also apply in a nuclear Middle East: Don't be so confident. For one thing, the possible number of nuclear countries will drive up the potential for miscalculation. For another, with an Iranian president who sees himself as an instrument for accelerating the coming of the 12th Imam -- which is preceded in the mythology by the equivalent of Armageddon -- one should not take comfort in thinking that Iran will act responsibly.
But the alternative of using force to prevent or forestall the Iranians' going nuclear does not look much better. To begin with, there are no simple or clean military options. Air operations alone might involve striking hundreds of targets, many in populated areas where there are significant air defense capabilities in the process of being upgraded by the Russians. The more casualties we inflict, the more we inflame the Islamic world.
Perhaps we could manage the response if the military campaign inflicted relatively few casualties and succeeded in setting back the Iranian nuclear program. But such a rosy scenario assumes that Iran's ability to retaliate is relatively limited. Even if we have the means to prevent the Iranian navy and air force from shutting down shipping into and out of the Persian Gulf, Iran has other options for turning any effort to take out its nuclear capability into a wider war.
The Iranians can foment far greater numbers of insurgent attacks against our forces in Iraq -- literally trying to set the earth on fire under our feet. To cut off the support for such attacks we could be driven to act militarily across the border into Iran on the ground. Perhaps Iran would realize that an escalating conflict with the United States is too dangerous, but after underestimating the risks we encountered in Iraq, can we be so confident about what the Iranians might do?
If neither outcome that our current policy is likely to produce is acceptable, should we not look for another pathway? Of course, but the challenge remains one of changing the Iranian calculus. Iran must see that it either loses more than it gains by proceeding to move toward nuclear weapons or that it can gain more by giving up the effort. The problem with the current policy is that it threatens costs that either aren't believable or are likely to pale in comparison with what the Iranians see themselves gaining with nuclear power.
But what if we could threaten collective sanctions that the Iranians would see as biting? What if those were combined with possible gains in terms of a deal on nuclear energy, economic benefits and security understandings if the Iranians would give up the nuclear program?
While one can argue that the Europeans were trying to negotiate something like this with the Iranians, they were never able to put together a package of credible sanctions and inducements, because the United States was not really a part of the effort. True, this country has coordinated with the British, French and Germans in the Bush second term. But a serious effort at raising the costs to the Iranians and offering possible gains has never been put together.
Why not now? Why not have the president go to his British, French and German counterparts and say: We will join you at the table with the Iranians, but first let us agree on an extensive set of meaningful -- not marginal -- economic and political sanctions that we will impose if the negotiations fail. Any such agreement would also need to entail an understanding of what would constitute failure in the talks and the trigger for the sanctions.
The Europeans have always wanted the Americans at the table. Agreeing on the sanctions in advance would be the price for getting us there. To be sure, the United States would focus as well on what could be provided to the Iranians, but the benefits have always been easier to agree on, particularly since meaningful sanctions will also impose a price on us. Real economic sanctions would not just bite Iran and its ability to generate revenue but also would undoubtedly drive up the price of oil. Our readiness to accept that risk at a time when high gasoline prices are becoming a domestic political issue would convey a very different signal about our seriousness to the Iranians -- who presently don't fear sanctions because they think they have the world over a barrel.
There is no guarantee such an approach will work with Iran. This Iranian government may simply be determined to have nuclear weapons. If that is the case, and if President Bush is determined to prevent Iran from gaining nuclear weapons -- as he has said -- we would still be better off having tried a direct negotiating option before resorting to what inevitably will be a difficult, messy use of force once again.
The writer was director for policy planning in the State Department under President George H.W. Bush and special Middle East coordinator under President Bill Clinton. He is counselor of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
|
The United States and Iran are playing programmed roles in a minuet on nuclear weapons. The United States pushes the U.N. Security Council to warn Iran about the consequences of going nuclear. And Iran continues its march toward development of nuclear power, even as its president declares that "we...
| 21.796296 | 0.981481 | 52.018519 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100550.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100550.html
|
Washington Sees Scattered Participation in Boycott
|
2006050119
|
Washington area immigrants do not appear to be heeding the call for a national economic boycott in overwhelming numbers today, although some businesses have closed because employees are absent and some public schools are reporting high absentee rates among Hispanic students.
In other cities across the United States, however, large groups of predominantly Hispanic immigrants took to the streets. Hundreds of thousands of people marched in Los Angeles and Chicago. Smaller numbers appeared to have rallied in New York, Atlanta and other large cities. Some large companies said they had to close plants because some of their immigrant workers took the day off.
In the Washington region, leaders of immigrant groups said the real impact of the boycott would not be fully known until later this afternoon or evening.
Anecdotal accounts -- and earlier interviews with advocates who were divided over whether immigrants should participate in the boycott -- suggested that while some were staying home from work, their action was not widespread.
More than half the construction workers on projects at Washington Dulles International Airport did not show up for work today, airport spokesperson Tara Hamilton said. She said work continued on all projects, but in a limited manner.
In Montgomery County, 48 percent of the Hispanic students at Col. Zak Magruder High in Rockville were absent today, a spokesman for the public school system said. In Prince William County, more than half of the Hispanic students at Stonewall Jackson High in Manassas did not come to school. Fairfax County schools reported higher than usual absenteeism. District schools said attendance was normal.
This afternoon, a march was planned to begin at Malcolm X Park in the District. Only a few hundred people showed up.
The impact on the local restaurant industry has been "all over the board," said Lynne Breaux, president of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington.
For some restaurants, it's business as usual, she said. Other restaurants have used contingency plans, asking chefs and managers to pull double duty to make sure they were fully staffed.
But some restaurants were forced to close, including La Chaumiere in Georgetown, a Wendy's in Arlington and a Corner Bakery in downtown Washington.
In the District's heavily immigrant Mount Pleasant neighborhood, about half the shops and businesses were closed for at least part of the day.
Some local activists had predicted that thousands would participate in today's boycott, which asks immigrants to refrain from buying goods and to stay home from work and school. But immigrant groups who have spoken out against the action said they fear that the immigration reform movement is being commandeered to promote political causes beyond immigration.
|
Washington area immigrants do not appear to be heeding the call for a national economic boycott in overwhelming numbers today, although some businesses have closed because employees are absent and some public schools are reporting high absentee rates among Hispanic students.
| 11.651163 | 1 | 43 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100854.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100854.html
|
Iraqis Begin Duty With Refusal
|
2006050119
|
BAGHDAD, May 1 -- The graduation of nearly 1,000 new Iraqi army soldiers in restive Anbar province took a disorderly turn Sunday when dozens of the men declared that they would refuse to serve outside their home areas, according to U.S. and Iraqi military authorities.
The graduation ceremony at Camp Habbaniyah, a base about 45 miles west of Baghdad, had been going well. The 978 soldiers, most of them Sunni Muslims, had just finished nearly five weeks of military training and were parading before a review stand to the sounds of martial music. They took an oath of service while U.S. and Iraqi officials delivered speeches hailing the event as an important step toward the formation of a national army.
Then some soldiers started tearing their clothes off to demonstrate their rage.
The protest was triggered by an announcement that the new soldiers, all residents of Anbar province -- widely considered the heartland of Iraq's Sunni Arab insurgent movement -- would be required to serve outside their home towns and outside the province as well.
Recruiting Sunnis into the army has been a key goal of U.S. policies to rebuild the Iraqi armed forces. Sunday's ceremony for the first group out of a total of 5,000 men recruited from Anbar represented major progress in that effort. But army commanders worry that if the men serve in their own home towns, they could be co-opted by insurgents.
While the fracas fell well short of outright mutiny -- there were no reported injuries, and the soldiers ate a meal in an orderly manner later that day -- a video clip of the graduation aired on the al-Jazeera and al-Arabiya television networks throughout Monday gave the impression of a near-riot.
The clip showed what appeared to be dozens of angry, shouting troops ripping off their uniforms and throwing them in the air or on the ground. Others shook their fists in the direction of the camera, as Iraqi officers, waving their arms, attempted to stop the tumult. In the background, most soldiers simply milled around, looking confused about what was taking place.
U.S. military authorities, who issued a statement on Sunday night that made no mention of the incident, gave a more subdued account of what happened.
"It was actually a very small number of graduates," said Lt. Col. Michael Negard, spokesman for the Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, which oversees the training of the Iraqi army and police forces. "It was a momentary but very brief display of displeasure. It was never out of control. It was over as quick as it started."
The incident appears to echo an event in April 2004 when a battalion of the Iraqi army was ordered to deploy to Fallujah to help U.S. Marines fighting there. The troops refused. During the following weeks, more than 15,000 other Iraqi soldiers and police officers deserted, forcing the training effort essentially to start over with new practices designed to increase the retention of recruits.
Army graduation ceremonies have often been troubled. In late 2003, according to Kalev Sepp, a retired Special Forces officer who has advised U.S. commanders in Iraq, U.S. trainers of one Iraqi unit so distrusted their students that they carried loaded pistols at a graduation ceremony in case of mutiny.
Iraqi soldiers and local authorities said the problem that surfaced in Sunday's ceremony has not yet been solved. A mediator, Brig. Salah Khalil al-Ani, said the soldiers were angry because they believed they would be assigned to serve in their province and home towns according to an agreement worked out by tribal and religious leaders in Anbar with Defense Ministry officers.
|
BAGHDAD, May 1 -- The graduation of nearly 1,000 new Iraqi army soldiers in restive Anbar province took a disorderly turn Sunday when dozens of the men declared that they would refuse to serve outside their home areas, according to U.S. and Iraqi military authorities.
| 14.395833 | 1 | 48 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100631.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100631.html
|
Civil Service Steps Up Recruitment
|
2006050119
|
Civil service leaders announced a media campaign yesterday to lure talented applicants to the federal workforce at the same time that a new study says the government needs to do a more effective job of recruiting college students for federal jobs.
Linda M. Springer, director of the Office of Personnel Management, said the agency will begin airing four 30-second television ads featuring federal employees touting the work they do and encouraging viewers to explore job opportunities at http://www.usajobs.gov/ . The ads come as the federal government faces an unprecedented wave of retirements among the baby-boom generation, with about 60 percent of the government's 1.8 million workers eligible to retire over the next 10 years.
"We often call it the retirement tsunami," Springer said. "We've got to get ready for it."
However, the new study by the nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, scheduled for release today, shows that federal officials have often failed to reach out to a group of people who might be expected to fill the jobs of departing civil servants: university students.
The partnership, whose mission is to entice talented people to consider federal careers, found that university students -- as measured by the responses of juniors, seniors and engineering graduate students at six universities -- say they lack the knowledge of federal jobs and internships necessary to map out career decisions.
Specifically, 54 percent of students said they did not feel knowledgeable about federal opportunities, compared with 13 percent who said they were very or extremely knowledgeable. Forty-two percent of students said they were very interested in federal jobs, slightly less than the percentage who said they were interested in private-sector spots.
Students said their biggest concern about taking a job in government was too much bureaucracy.
The OPM ads and the report come as the difficulty of maintaining a skilled federal workforce is building. The problem is especially critical at the uppermost levels of career bureaucrats, with 90 percent of Senior Executive Service members eligible to retire in the next decade.
Max Stier, president of the partnership, said the next generation of federal workers will think differently about their career paths than the generation that is about to retire.
"The generation that's leaving" believed in a system in which "they came into government for lifetime employment," Stier said. "The model no longer works today. This is a problem the government has never had to address before."
Springer acknowledged the new demands yesterday, saying the government must offer more flexible work arrangements. "We can't just bank on employees today in the 21st century that want to come work in a bricks-and-mortar building and stay there for 20, 30 or 40 years," she said. "It's not going to happen."
The partnership's report urges the government to create substantive relationships with colleges and universities, pool resources of agencies to recruit for certain careers, stress the public-service component of government work and tailor recruitment with as much face-to-face effort as possible.
Springer also said OPM and other agencies must redouble their efforts to simplify the red-tape-laden federal hiring process, which is notorious for leaving job applicants in the dark for months. And OPM is encouraging workers who could retire over the next few years to stick around longer, perhaps through new part-time arrangements.
An area of acute concern is workers with technical skills. The Defense Department needs to hire 6,000 engineers annually, while various agencies need 2,000 information technology experts, according to the partnership. About 12,500 new air traffic controllers will be needed over the next 10 years. At the same time, scientific proficiency in U.S. schools is not keeping pace with that in foreign schools.
"The numbers are dramatic," said Doris Hausser, an OPM senior policy adviser. "The university systems of foreign competitors are generating engineers and scientists at a much higher rate than we are. That's not to say we don't have good engineering schools, but what needs to happen is for federal agencies to establish good working relationships with the departments at some of these schools."
The partnership's report said engineering students tend to be less interested in federal jobs than others, with only a quarter having actually sought information about them.
The report reflects the views of 3,200 students who responded to a survey sent to about 31,000 students at Clark Atlanta University, George Washington University, Louisiana State, Ohio State, Stanford and the University of New Mexico. At Ohio State, only language and engineering students were surveyed.
Ohio State engineering seniors Andrew Bramnik and Erica Nollen chose different paths to employment, illustrating some of the challenges and successes of federal recruitment.
Bramnik, 22, an electrical engineer, stopped at the booth of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission at a job fair last fall and talked to a representative for about 20 minutes. He was then invited to an interview in Illinois and visited a training room simulating a nuclear power station.
Soon after, though he was still talking to several companies about lucrative positions, he accepted a post in the commission's nuclear material safety branch. "I have friends who have accepted employment with other companies who will be starting in more entry-level, low-level positions," he said. "I get the feeling that going to work for the NRC is going to give me an opportunity to learn and progress a lot, while studying and being trained."
And, Bramnik said, "I've always known I wanted to do something with my engineering background that could provide a benefit to society."
Nollen, 22, a mechanical engineer, considered a job with the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Washington state but elected instead to be a consultant for McKinsey & Co., which offered her several thousand dollars more in salary. After an interview on campus about the shipyard position, she flew to Puget Sound for a tour. Officials there explained that though the pay was less than what the private sector offered, other benefits, such as a 40-hour workweek or guaranteed overtime, would make up for that gap.
Yet Nollen said she was worried that officials didn't put much effort into tailoring a position to her interests in strategic management. McKinsey, she said, conducted a demanding series of interviews that probed her career interests clearly.
"It wasn't necessarily that I didn't want to work for the government," Nollen said. "I don't know how they got a good read on me being a fit or not. It was just such a short screening process. You want to make sure you're getting the right people in the job."
|
Get Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland and national news. Get the latest/breaking news, featuring national security, science and courts. Read news headlines from the nation and from The Washington Post. Visit www.washingtonpost.com/nation today.
| 30.5 | 0.52381 | 0.619048 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100583.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/01/AR2006050100583.html
|
Bolivian President Seizes Gas Industry
|
2006050119
|
CARACAS, Venezuela, May 1 -- Bolivian President Evo Morales seized control of the country's natural gas industry Monday, sending soldiers to occupy fields that he contends private companies have plundered for years.
Morales said that unless foreign energy firms agreed to give Bolivia's state oil company oversight of production and a majority of their revenue generated in Bolivia, the government would evict them from the fields.
"The time has come, the awaited day, a historic day in which Bolivia retakes absolute control of our natural resources," Morales said during a televised speech from a gas field near the country's southern border. "The looting by foreign companies has ended."
Morales's announcement was expected, but his deployment of troops to gas fields was a strong statement in a region where governments are moving to block outside influence, particularly from the United States, and exert more control over the energy industry. Venezuela recently voided drilling contracts with private companies at 32 oil fields, demanding new contracts that give the state oil company a 60 percent stake. Ecuador is finalizing a law that could limit excessive profits by foreign crude producers.
The developments in Bolivia were not expected to affect the U.S. energy market. Even in Bolivia, analysts played down the importance of the troop deployment, but they acknowledged the message Morales was trying to send.
"I think it was a symbolic move to send the military to the oil fields to show that Bolivians are now in charge of taking care of their own property," said Gonzalo Chavez, a political analyst with the Catholic University in La Paz, the Bolivian capital. "It's an extremely popular move. There's a lot of nationalism in the country right now, and this is something that a lot of people are going to like."
During his victorious electoral campaign last year, Morales promised that he would force energy companies to give at least 50 percent of their revenue to the government's state energy company. The plan announced Monday called for a substantially higher percentage -- 82 percent -- to be surrendered by any company producing more than 100 million cubic feet of natural gas daily. He said that all companies have six months to agree to the terms or be kicked out of the country.
Bolivia boasts South America's second-largest reserves of natural gas, behind Venezuela. The country does not play a major role in international energy markets, but its natural gas exports are important to some of its neighbors.
About 25 international energy firms operate in Bolivia. Brazil's Petrobras and Spain's Repsol YPF have the largest operations in the country, and Exxon Mobil Corp. of the United States maintains a smaller presence.
Morales has conceded that Bolivia needs the help of those foreign companies to get reserves out of the ground, and he has said his nationalization plan is not designed to cut those companies completely out of the sector.
Bob Davis, an Exxon spokesman, said Monday that the company was "monitoring the situation" in Bolivia. He said that earlier concerns prompted Exxon to submit a letter to an international arbitration board saying that the company was contemplating a request for arbitration.
Oil industry officials have been increasingly concerned about the investment climate in Bolivia. According to news reports, Bolivia's attorney general, Pedro Gareca, opened criminal cases in mid-March against three former Bolivian presidents and eight former energy ministers for alleged wrongdoing in drawing up and signing contracts with foreign oil companies.
Morales's government has held bilateral talks with energy firms in recent weeks, but negotiations sputtered. Petrobras, after announcing additional investments of $5 billion shortly after Morales's inauguration in January, rescinded the plan in March because of uncertainty over the government's policies. Tensions also flared with Repsol YPF after the government accused its executives of smuggling oil out of the country.
Monday's announcement coincided with May Day workers' celebrations throughout the country. Morales had been under political pressure to announce the plan, which his backers consider a key to the success of his administration. He has said he plans to use increased state revenue from the takeover to fund social programs in South America's poorest country.
A longtime leader of Bolivia's coca growers union, Morales was elected in December after leading protests railing against foreign corporations and the management of the country's gas resources, which are mostly located in the Santa Cruz province in the southeastern corner of Bolivia. He spent the weekend in Cuba with ideological ally Hugo Chavez, the Venezuelan leader who has helped lead a regional shift away from the privatization of South American industries and toward more state control.
Even though it recently reached oil independence, Brazil is the country that leans most heavily on Bolivia for natural gas. In the 1990s, the Brazilian government reinforced the country's hydroelectric power grid with plants fueled by natural gas, and many of Brazil's automobiles run on natural gas. About half of Brazil's natural gas needs -- 520 million cubic feet daily -- are supplied by Bolivia via a 2,000-mile pipeline financed mostly by Petrobras. In 2003, Petrobras discovered gas deposits within Brazil that some experts say could significantly ease demand, but tapping that gas could prove costly and difficult.
|
CARACAS, Venezuela, May 1 -- Bolivian President Evo Morales seized control of the country's natural gas industry Monday, sending soldiers to occupy fields that he contends private companies have plundered for years.
| 26.810811 | 1 | 37 |
medium
|
high
|
extractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001158.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001158.html
|
For Paul Greengrass, a Connecting Flight
|
2006050119
|
Barely four years ago, Paul Greengrass was some British guy making socially conscious movies about the Irish troubles. Now he's the one -- not a Spielberg, a Cameron or a Scorsese -- who directed the first major movie to deal directly with the events of Sept. 11, 2001. And "United 93" is his vision of what happened on the ill-fated flight before it ended tragically in a desolate field near Shanksville, Pa. Did the A-listers want no part of this? (Oliver Stone, no big surprise, has his own Sept. 11 film due out in August.) And how did an Englishman get charged with retelling one of the darkest days in American history?
The man to answer all that, writer-director Greengrass, has arrived, sauntering into a Washington hotel suite. No leggy aides chirruping into cellphones. No alpha-agent guard-dogging his every word. Just a burly 50-year-old Englishman, John Lennon glasses and Jesus hair.
We're immediately struck by a weird, inappropriate thought, but here it is: This guy would have been useful up there, huddling with passenger and rugby player Mark Bingham, squaring shoulders to bust open that cockpit door. But as soon as Greengrass begins to speak, all thoughts of the physical disappear. Now it's all about the voice, softer and more reassuring than a priest's at a funeral -- those sonorous tones, that confidence. As if nothing could have been easier than making a movie about one of the country's most traumatic episodes.
"I've seen a lot of political violence in my life," says Greengrass, who spent the first 10 years of his career as a producer-reporter for "World in Action," a British investigative TV series that took him to hot spots around the world, including Lebanon, the Philippines and Northern Ireland.
"I know what it looks like, I know what it smells like, I know what motivates young men to do it. I've talked to them about it. I know what victims feel like, you know? I know the abominable effect it has on politics. I know how intractable it is.
"Does it mean I know about 9/11? No. But that's what brought me to the table," says Greengrass, who conceived of the movie project himself rather than signing on to something already in the works.
He loves America, he says, his blunt workman's fingers making gentle arcs in front of him, sometimes fingering that tousled hair. Feels very connected to it. Lives in Hollywood. Lives well, thanks to the success of "The Bourne Supremacy," which reaped $176 million for Universal. (Getting "United 93" made at Universal amounts to studio payback, Greengrass cashing in his chips.) But as to his suitability for this undertaking, he says, it boils down to the experience of two films. The first was "Bloody Sunday," a 2002 release about the killings of Irish demonstrators at the hands of British forces in 1972. The other, 2004's "Omagh," examined the aftermath of an IRA bombing that claimed 29 victims in Northern Ireland.
Both were filmed with the hand-held-camera urgency of documentaries, the signature style of this former TV journalist. No one stands out as hero or villain. Everyone is caught up in the no-exit impasse of personal politics. Families lose sons, husbands and children, sometimes wives. His films are about the disintegration of peace and happiness across entire communities. And for both productions, Greengrass reached out and secured the support of the actual families who had lost loved ones; those who felt a moral ownership of the story.
He took the same approach for "United 93," he says. He visited with the families of the slain passengers and crew. He told them he had culled the findings of the 9/11 Commission report and other sources, would listen to their personal testimonies as well as those of military and civilian personnel who monitored that awful day. He promised them he would honor and dignify their dead. And that, as with his Irish films, he'd find a softer, gentler truth.
"You can make films about these events that are not these bleak and tragic events," Greengrass says. Although he stresses the "United 93" project was "a different film about a different subject, the principle is the same. . . . Let's try and create a shared narrative of it, which doesn't duck the truth of what happened, but which doesn't seek to judge and condemn or caricature or marginalize. Let's try and draw together, see if we can't paint a picture of this event that we'll all look at afterward and go, 'It must have been something a bit like that.' "
He got the families' collective blessing, he says.
All 40? Surely, there were some holdouts?
|
Search Washington, DC area movie listings, reviews and locations from the Washington Post. Features DC, Virginia and Maryland entertainment listings for movies and movie guide. Visit http://eg.washingtonpost.com/section/movies today.
| 28.323529 | 0.470588 | 0.470588 |
medium
|
low
|
abstractive
|
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001156.html
|
https://web.archive.org/web/2006050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/30/AR2006043001156.html
|
Life of the Afterparty
|
2006050119
|
Dear reader, come massage our tired feet and we will tell you a story, a story about cucumber-lime cocktails and teensy roast beef sandwiches, a story of red carpets and velvet ropes and bathrooms so well decorated you cannot find the stalls, a story about fame and almost-fame and famous-for-Washington, about peering into the darkness of a fabulous party and asking, "Hey, isn't that -- that woman? From that show?"
After the White House Correspondents' Association dinner comes the Bloomberg party, every year. So the heavens have decreed it and so it shall be. The heavens have added: Let there be plentiful liquor and plentiful cleavage. And so it is. There was also, this particular year, great drunkenness, great dancing, and this one long-haired dude who just got voted off "American Idol."
O fame! O greatness! There he was Saturday night, Ace Young -- he of the foppish curls and the smirk of a guy who's been getting a lot of love from the ladies. He was accompanied by older brother Ryan, who has the same foppish curls and the pleased look of a guy whose brother is suddenly famous and beloved by the ladies.
Ryan reported that at the dinner earlier some old lady came up to his brother and "dropped a kiss on his lips."
"Yeah, caught me off guard," Ace said.
"No idea." But Ace said he "definitely got a few" phone numbers.
Oh, yeah. We were aaall getting some action, except for those of us who weren't. We started to see the sheen of fame on lots of people, including some nobody we mistakenly thought was Somebody. We started to feel a little famous ourselves in our tuxes and halter-neck dresses, mingling with all these celebrities. Why, there's Comedy Central star Stephen Colbert, who roasted the president earlier at the dinner! There's the rapper Ludacris! There's that old lady from "Everybody Loves Raymond," whatever her name is! There's "Syriana" star Jeffrey Wright, who comes up behind Isaiah Washington from "Grey's Anatomy" and gooses him in the backside! Ha-ha! We get it!
There were plenty of famous-for-Washington types -- people whose work has a great effect on the nation and whom few outside the 202 area code would recognize: Justice Antonin Scalia, deposed FEMA head Michael Brown. (Let's call him Brownie instead; makes him sound like a rapper.)
meet people-who-might-be-slightly-famous-for-Washington? Is one more powerful than the other? Or is it like matter meeting antimatter, and they both explode? Eighties glamourpuss Morgan Fairchild walks past a fellow who looks a lot like Time magazine reporter and Plamegate testimony-giver Matt Cooper, and their eyes meet. And then, just as suddenly -- their eyes unmeet.
|
Dear reader, come massage our tired feet and we will tell you a story, a story about cucumber-lime cocktails and teensy roast beef sandwiches, a story of red carpets and velvet ropes and bathrooms so well decorated you cannot find the stalls, a story about fame and almost-fame and...
| 9.847458 | 0.983051 | 57.016949 |
low
|
high
|
extractive
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.