MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'citizen'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:02:53 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159834&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FOa5-_YVQ_fM%2F And so another working week is about to draw to a close. This is, of course, our signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our modest agenda includes shuttling one of our short people off to an institution of higher learning, catching up on some reading and then bracing for a hurricane. Big fun, as they say. And what about you? Will you be boarding windows? Evacuating the homestead? For those of you in other locales, perhaps this slow time of the year is ripe for a pleasant drive or an outdoor event. Whatever you do, enjoy and be safe. See you soon… UK Probes How Medications Were Switched (BBC) Cipla Seeks Partners, Not Divestitures (Pharma Times) Shire Wins Approval Of Anti-Swelling Drug (Bloomberg News) Surgical Mesh Devices Should Be Banned: Watchdog Group (Star-Ledger of NJ) FDA Ap... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159834 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:09:55 +0100 5159834 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008696&cid=t_125664_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2Fm5kZ0MDqZ0E%2Ffor-many-emotional-well-being-deepens.html Think you are happy now? According to the Gallup-Healthways well-being index, best emotional times come later in life. I would certainly agree with this finding. The oldest group outscored the other three age groups in emotions, which was one of six categories measured in a massive study on well-being. Out of a possible score of 100, the 65-and-older age group scored 83. Those 45-64 had the lowest score, 76. Credit experience, says Kay McCurdy, 72, of Springfield, Va. “You shift your idea of what a good life is into what you can have as a good life,” says McCurdy. “You get realistic. " Elisabeth Burnett, 73, a neighbor of McCurdy’s at the Greenspring retirement home in the Washington, D.C. metro area, says that having a strong emotional life takes a hefty dose of true grit. Burn... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008696 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:14:00 +0100 5008696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883922&cid=t_125664_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FAmPyqJHOQKw%2Flow-property-values-still-plague.html A new report from Smart Money shows that after almost five years of falling home pries, many retirees must consider what to do with their homes should prices continue to collapse. Many who are approaching retirement have been counting on their home equity as a way to finance their golden years, but the real estate downturn has made it more difficult. In the past, Americans hoped to age in place and viewed the equity in their home as the break-in-case-of-emergency asset, the one asset they would use to pay for long-term care or nursing homes. Today, however, aging in place isn’t the option it once was, especially given the possibility that the equity in one’s home might be falling in value, while the cost of keeping a home real estate taxes, property insurance premiums and utilities ... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883922 Tue, 31 May 2011 13:37:00 +0100 4883922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883677&cid=t_125664_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F30%2Fremembering-those-who-died-for-us-2011%2F It’s hard to repay the debt of a human life. Yet today in the United States, we remember those who died for us, fighting in wars to keep our freedoms safe from those who would take them away from us. War still rages around us, soldiers still fight today. And every month, soldiers die fighting for us. For our democracy. For our country. I’m not sure how to repay that debt. All I can do is remember and give thanks to those who fell in battle, because without their sacrifice, I’m not sure I’d be here living in one of the world’s greatest democracies. Memorial Day’s roots can be traced back to the Civil War, when people who honor those who fought in that bloody war by decorating the graves of the dead. After WWI, it was expanded to recognize the sacrifices g... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883677 Mon, 30 May 2011 12:26:30 +0100 4883677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4715020&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FcEBOhpGUe_M%2F For the second time in five years, Public Citizen is petitioning the FDA to ban the Xenical prescription diet pill sold by Roche, which is also marketed in a lower-dose, over-the-counter version as Alli by GlaxoSmithKline. The latest move comes after a report earlier this week that linked the drug to kidney stones and pancreatic damage. The watchdog group identified 47 cases of acute pancreatitis and 73 kidney stones among patients taking either the prescription version or the over-the-counter form. Last year, the FDA added warnings to Xenical and Alli about rare reports of liver damage - 12 reports of severe liver toxicity associated with Xenical and one domestic case for Alli. Two of the patients died of liver failure and three required liver transplants. Public Citizen wants the manufac... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4715020 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:49:30 +0100 4715020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600793&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FE8s7is_0mk0%2F The federal government was asked by a watchdog group to investigate several allegedly “unethical long-term, placebo-controlled studies” for indacterol, a Novartis drug for treating moderate to severe chronic obstructuve pulmonary disease. Why? “The studies were marred by a failure to minimize risk to subjects and inadequate information provided to subjects,” according to Public Citizen. In a letter sent to the Office for Human Research Protections at the US Department of Health and Human Services, the group alleges there six “unethical” studies in which placebo-control subjects received prolonged substandard care. Put another way, Public Citizen charges the patients were prevented from using widely acknowledged standard care and that informed consent was... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600793 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 17:47:48 +0100 4600793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4544942&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FvHib6fw9zys%2F By David RittgersThe L.A. Times has an article highlighting the twentieth anniversary of the Rodney King beating and how video of that event introduced the LAPD to modern citizen journalism. Today, things are far different and the tape that so tainted the LAPD has a clear legacy in how officers think about their jobs. Police now work in a YouTube world in which cellphones double as cameras, news helicopters transmit close-up footage of unfolding police pursuits, and surveillance cameras capture arrests or shootings. Police officials are increasingly recording their officers. Compared to the cops who beat King, officers these days hit the streets with a new reality ingrained in their minds: Someone is always watching. "Early on in their training, I always tell them, 'I don't care if you're ... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4544942 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 21:29:33 +0100 4544942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4478159&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FJCr7wILQm2A%2F In April 2009, Kira Gilbert was prescribed the Darvocet painkiller and died eight days later from pulmonary edema, or a build up of fluid in the lungs. Three months earlier, however, an FDA advisory panel decided the benefits did not outweigh the risks of the drug - which contains propoxyphene, an opiate narcotic. And only a few weeks later, the European Medicine Agency banned the drug. Yet in July 2009, the FDA ignored its panel and, instead, required a boxed warning, a patient med guide and the manufacturer, Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, to conduct new trials to assess cardiac risks. The FDA move followed a long-running debate in which consumer advocates urged a withdrawal and prompted fresh accusations that the agency unnecessarily dragged its feet. Xanodyne, subsequently, ran the trials an... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4478159 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:40:26 +0100 4478159 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455249&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F4L9gwS9jciU%2F By Daniel IkensonPresident Obama’s visit with the Chamber of Commerce this week has infuriated the anti-business Left.  But short of expropriation and nationalization, what doesn’t?  Robert Reich and NPR and the scribes at the Huffington Post just don’t get it.  Their man may be in the White House, but business holds the keys to the kingdom.  Whether the president’s priority is job creation or reelection, nothing matters more than sustained economic growth. And without business having confidence that policy in the United States will become more hospitable and predictable, investment and job creation will remain tepid. The president doesn’t have nearly the leverage assumed in the delusions of groups like Public Citizen, which wrote: "What America needs is not olive branches to... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455249 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:49:56 +0100 4455249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4372241&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=34768&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmagossip.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fpicture-is-worth-thousand-words-public.html This report is a "must read"! (Source: PharmaGossip) PharmaGossip blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4372241 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 09:27:00 +0100 4372241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4352857&cid=t_125664_158_f&fid=38949&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAgingWithGraceCareconnection%2F%7E3%2FWHL5FS7H4Qs%2Fgracious-mindset-of-seasoned-citizens.html The Gracious Mindset of Seasoned Citizens by Garry Harper, author & theologianThere’s nothing like a lifetime when it comes to putting mistakes into context. Who among us can’t recall a poor decision here or there that seemed to change the vector of our lives? And yet, when one reaches the age of “real” enlightenment – say 55 – looking back brings far more smiles than frowns of disappointment. Could it be that grace moves like an arc over the span of our lives? While we’re traveling on the straight line of time, grace moves over and above us at a somewhat quicker pace. It is most distant from us – almost out of our reach – when we’re raising our own children. In our late 20’s and early 30’s we’re tempted to indulge ourselves in sophomoric self-righteousness. Someh... Aging with Grace CareConnection blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4352857 Sat, 15 Jan 2011 20:20:00 +0100 4352857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331056&cid=t_125664_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2F11%2Fthe-arizona-shootings-a-recurrent-american-tragedy%2F For many of us in the mental health field, the January 8 shooting in Tucson, Arizona was like a darker version of the movie, “Groundhog Day.” Surely we had seen this all before: the “senseless, horrific attack” on innocent persons; the “mentally disturbed young man” charged with murder; the ever-recurring polemical arguments between supporters and opponents of gun control. While the facts are still unfolding, and the accused shooter’s motivations — Jared Lee Loughner — still unclear, the murders in Arizona have once again raised a number of troubling questions: what if any link is there between violence and mental illness? Which problems in our health care system may contribute to untreated or inadequately treated mental illness? How should we balance civil libert... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331056 Tue, 11 Jan 2011 11:25:52 +0100 4331056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4124995&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FwLQDcCV5KfU%2F By David RittgersUPI is reporting that the Taser Corporation is selling cameras that mount on their stun guns. The cameras automatically turn on when the Taser is removed from its holster and its safety device is released. “Video is going to help the officer,” said Cmdr. Steve Wilkinson, internal affairs investigator for the West Melbourne (Fla.) Police Department. “And if you don’t record it, the kid down the street with a cellphone is going to use it.” As I wrote in this post and said in this video and this forum, this is the future of law enforcement. Taser-mounted (or handgun-mounted) cameras can show the circumstances leading up to a use of force and prevent lawsuits where force was justified. The camera’s presence on a weapon, however, can provide offi... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4124995 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:23:28 +0100 4124995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4013148&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FSCRO97qpnDo%2F By David RittgersMaryland Circuit Court Judge Emory A Pitt, Jr. has ruled that motorcyclist and Maryland Air National Guardsman Anthony Graber did not violate the Maryland wiretapping statute when he recorded his traffic stop. The wiretap law does prohibit the recording of audio where there is a “reasonable expectation of privacy,” but Judge Pitt found that a police officer performing a traffic stop has no such expectation of privacy. “Those of us who are public officials and are entrusted with the power of the state are ultimately accountable to the public,” the judge wrote. “When we exercise that power in public fora, we should not expect our actions to be shielded from public observation.” As I said in this op-ed, and as Clark Neily, Radley Balko and I pointe... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4013148 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 15:47:08 +0100 4013148 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999290&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FUj-Nkx7BzIQ%2F Amid the hubbub over the ongoing Johnson & Johnson recall scandal - tens of millions of bottles of pediatric over-the-counter meds, contact lenses and hip replacement devices - one could be excused for overlooking the ongoing risks of the health care giant’s Ortho-Evra birth control patch. After all, what’s another poorly made or dangerous product when so many others are problematic? But then NBC’s Today Show ran a segment this week about the patch. The piece largely regurgitated news that circulated widely two years ago - J&J paid at least $68 million to settle hundreds of lawsuits filed by women who suffered blood clots, heart attacks or strokes, and the financial details were kept confidential (back story). And Public Citizen health research director Sid Wolf... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999290 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:53:24 +0100 3999290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3969002&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F2RYWCdp2Z1Y%2F By David RittgersThe past six months have given us a number of police excesses caught on camera. Police officers savagely beat University of Maryland student John McKenna and filed false felony assault charges against him. Video of the event set the record straight. Prosecutors dropped the charges against McKenna, and four officers have been suspended and are facing state and federal investigations. The McKenna case showed the value of video as an honest witness. Yet Maryland police officers continue to make the claim that the state wiretapping law forbids recording in public. I discuss this issue in a new Cato video, Cops on Camera, along with attorney Clark Neily of the Institute for Justice and Cato adjunct scholar Radley Balko. We are hosting an event next Wednesday, September 22, on ... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3969002 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 15:08:34 +0100 3969002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3833408&cid=t_125664_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fbirther-surgeon-lt-col-terrence-lakin-headed-courtmartial%2F United States Army physician Lt. Col. Terrence Lakin is facing a court martial after refusing to obey orders to deploy to Afghanistan. He states that the order is invalid because he believes that President Obama who is commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces is not a United States citizen. (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3833408 Sat, 07 Aug 2010 16:28:03 +0100 3833408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737034&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2Fo1IJj9jsDNc%2F By Jim HarperReliable national security reporter Siobhan Gorman at the Wall Street Journal has broken a story about an Internet surveillance program called “Perfect Citizen” to be managed by the National Security Agency. Reading about it is frustrating, and for me blame quickly settles on Congress. Our legislature is utterly supine before the national security bureaucracy, which exaggerates cybersecurity threats and consistently uses the secrecy trump card to defy oversight. If there is to be a federal government role in securing the Internet from cyberattacks, there is no good reason why its main components should not be publicly known and openly debated. Small parts, like threat signatures and such—the unique characteristics of new attacks—might be appropriately k... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737034 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:27:51 +0100 3737034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718694&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F5smoVj-vaK8%2F Drugmakers facing product-liability lawsuits generally prefer federal courts in the belief they will receive a more beneficial hearing, which explains why GlaxoSmithKline recently wanted to move a lawsuit over its Lamictal seizure med out of a Pennsylvania state court. But a federal judge ruled Glaxo violated a new “nerve center” test for determining corporate citizenship, The Legal Intellgiencer reports. So the suit goes back to state court. This is significant. Glaxo, you see, tried arguing that it’s really a citizen of Delaware, where it was established as a corporate entity and, therefore, is not a citizen of Pennsylvania. But US District Court Judge J. Curtis Joyner is having none of it. In a nine-page order, he is quick to note that Philadelphia is cited in various ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718694 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:16:22 +0100 3718694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3648801&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fy6IVMFN-_ZE%2F Three months ago, a controversy erupted in India where intellectual property conferences sponsored by drugmakers, law firms and others angered various non-profit groups that argued the sessions are little more than gussied up opportunities to lobby India’s judges and policy makers. In their view, these IP summits, which are organized by the George Washington University Law School, are attempts to influence sitting judges on patent law enforcement issues that are pending in Indian courts. At the time, more than 20 consumer groups and non-governmental organizations wrote to India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry to complain the meetings are used as forums by companies to promote their IP and lobby for amendments to existing law or plead cases before the Indian Patent Office. Now, ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3648801 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 11:49:55 +0100 3648801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3552222&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F5zsLLQTMgPE%2F By Jim HarperI was pleased last week to testify in Congress about a draft bill that would mandate “event data recorders” in all new cars. Automobile black boxes or “EDRs” are an issue that found me a few years ago when I commented on their privacy consequences to a newspaper and heard from concerned drivers across the country. My testimony to the House Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection had three main themes: 1) The Constitution doesn’t give Congress authority to design automobiles or their safety features; 2) Only a relevant sample of crash data is needed to improve auto safety—overspending on a 100% EDR mandate will keep the poor in older, more dangerous cars and undermine auto safety for that cohort; an... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3552222 Mon, 10 May 2010 20:25:46 +0100 3552222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533813&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FAubQ3OjGKqQ%2F By Julian SanchezTwo smart guys on opposite sides of the political spectrum have sound points about the treatment of suspected Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad.  First, Orin Kerr points out that investigators have some flexibility in determining when and whether to read Miranda rights.  In this case, they refrained initially and questioned Shahzad for a while under the public safety exception. And despite the apparent belief of the perpetually terrorized that Miranda warnings are some kind of magical incantation that causes the cone of silence to descend upon blabbermouths, they determined that he would probably continue cooperating even after being Mirandized. But as Kerr points out, they could have proceeded sans Miranda had that seemed necessary—provided they were willing to waive... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533813 Wed, 05 May 2010 14:56:04 +0100 3533813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283818&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FL57IA74HFJc%2F Sid Wolfe, who has led Public Citizen’s Health Research Group for the past 38 years, is looking for a successor, but with little luck. He thought he had one in the guise of Peter Lurie, who for many years was his deputy director, until Lurie left unexpectedly last fall for a job with the FDA (see here). Since then, Wolfe hasn’t been able to find a new deputy to succeed him. “I’d like to step down and, from my perspective, the sooner, the better,” says Wolfe who, nonetheless, intends to continue working for the advocacy group and also remain a member of the FDA’s Drug Safety and Risk Management Committee. “We’ve gotten a fair number of applicants, but they have to have extraordinary quantitative skills, a completed residency in internal medici... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283818 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:55:49 +0100 3283818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262837&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2148 Researchers find ‘broad spectrum’ antiviral that fights multitude of viruses By Enrique Rivero February 01, 2010 Compound could be used against HIV-1, Nipah, Ebola and other deadly viruses Viruses are insidious creatures. They differ from each other in many ways, and they can mutate — at times seemingly at will, as with HIV — to resist a host of weapons fired at them. Complicating matters further is that new viruses are constantly emerging. One potential weapon is a small-molecule “broad spectrum” antiviral that will fight a host of viruses by attacking them through some feature common to an entire class of viruses. For example, there are two categories of viruses: lipid-enveloped and non-enveloped. Enveloped viruses are surrounded by a membrane that in effect ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262837 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:05:14 +0100 3262837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262838&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2145 Scientists say [they've] crack[ed] HIV/AIDS puzzle for drugs By Kate Kelland January 31, 2010 Study solves puzzle that eluded scientists for 20 years * Finding should help development of new HIV/AIDS medicines * Allows scientists to see how Merck and Gilead drugs work LONDON, Jan 31 (Reuters) - Scientists say they have solved a crucial puzzle about the AIDS virus after 20 years of research and that their findings could lead to better treatments for HIV. British and U.S. researchers said they had grown a crystal that enabled them to see the structure of an enzyme called integrase, which is found in retroviruses like HIV and is a target for some of the newest HIV medicines. “Despite initially painstakingly slow progress and very many failed attempts, we did not give up and our effort w... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262838 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:10:53 +0100 3262838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236037&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2131 Social determinants of the health by Mohammad Rajja February 3, 2010 chers— the discussion that follows concerns the social factors (determinants) driving poor health — poverty, malnutrition, gender and more. it’s a bit of a wrestling match with english, but all the more interesting because of that. think of it as a bit of a tone poem. and rajja’s english is way better than my bangladeshi. namaste —rk There are more than a few social determinants of the health of populations in the [bangladesh] region. These encompass eight major ones discuss[ed] below. Other connected factors include stress, the nature of work, service status, as well as social support. Poor countries and poor people suffer from multiple deprivations that translate into high levels of ill hea... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236037 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:05:55 +0100 3236037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236039&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2124 Los Angeles City Council approves medical marijuana ordinance that will shut down hundreds of dispensaries By John Hoeffel January 26, 2010 In a 9-3 vote, the Los Angeles City Council today gave its final approval to an ordinance that will shut down hundreds of medical marijuana dispensaries and impose strict rules on the location and operation of the dispensaries that are allowed. The measure passed quickly, without debate. The ordinance, which the council first began discussing more than 4 1/2 years ago, will cap the number of dispensaries at 70 but make an exception to allow all those that registered with the city in 2007 and have remained open. City officials believe that number is around 150. Hundreds of dispensaries have opened in Los Angeles as the City Council debated its proposed ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236039 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 06:01:54 +0100 3236039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236040&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2121 Medical cannabis advocate and rastafarian minister Ali Rashi offering public comment at a december Los Angeles City Council meeting about safe access and distribution. a great photo by Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty Image captures some of the feel of the debate —rk LA City Council members talk about their marijuana use by Frank Stoltze Jan. 26, 2010 The Los Angeles City Council Tuesday [approved] a new ordinance that would shut down most medical marijuana dispensaries in the city. It would place a cap of 70, with up to about 140 pot shops grandfathered in. KPCC surveyed councilmembers about whether they’d ever smoked pot – medical or otherwise. It was 1968, and Councilman Tom LaBonge was a high school kid sweet on a girl. She offered him some pot. “I was 15. It was after school. I w... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236040 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 05:36:13 +0100 3236040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197884&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FTfQz4yrm1BU%2F Two regulators, two different approaches to risk. Yesterday, the European Medicines Agency told docs to stop prescribing Abbott’s Meridia diet pill, because the risks outweigh the benefits, and decided Abbott’s license to market the pill should be suspended (look here). At the same time, the FDA added new warnings highlighting increased risks for patients with heart problems but reserves further action until full results arrive in March and a committee meeting is held (see here). The varying decisions were made after reviewing data from a trial known as SCOUT, which emerged last November and showed an increased risk of serious, non-fatal cardiovascular events, such as stroke or heart attack, when comparing the drug with a placebo among nearly 10,000 patients. The trial was desi... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197884 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:48:41 +0100 3197884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3194020&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FVZLb8OwMT6s%2F Which one? Public Citizen says the agency should yank Savella immediately because its dangers outweigh its benefits, according to a petition the consumer group sent the agency. In its missive, Public Citizen notes the European Medicines Agency rejected the drug for fibromyalgia last July, citing marginal benefits that failed to outweigh risks. The FDA approved the drug in January 2009. In two randomized clinical trials, Savella, which is made by Forest Labs and Cypress Bioscience, was found to increase blood pressure, heart rate and suicidal thoughts, according to the petition. Among patients who had normal blood pressure at the beginning of the study, 19.5 percent of those given Savella developed hypertension, compared to 7.2 percent of those on a placebo. Based on the extent of increas... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3194020 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:47:05 +0100 3194020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3164106&cid=t_125664_180_f&fid=38616&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifelearningtoday%2Fwlyf%2F%7E3%2FFYqAye306OI%2F The way to stop being frustrated by politics? Get involved! (And before you stop reading because you have no spare time, please know that there are small ways to get involved that don’t take a lot of time!) Think about a sports game. It can be frustrating watching a game when your team is losing. But when you are in the game, you can be affecting the outcome and at least know you did your best even if you don’t win. It is the same with politics! So, get on the field of play and use your energy, resources, and your right to contribute to our government. It won’t just make you feel better, it will make your community and country a better place! Whether you are on the right, the left, in the center, or out in left field, you CAN make a difference in the world. “Somebod... Life Learning Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3164106 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:50:00 +0100 3164106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159941&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2108 chers— terry has just migrated to LA TalkRadio (channel 1), and his premiere show tonight features medical cannabis adevocates don duncan, scott imler and richard eastman. i’m not quite sure what next week’s topic will be. but i’ll be there on January 31st, talking about HIV/AIDS & aging and the upcoming summit/training february 12. Listen live @ http://www.latalkradio.com/Terry.php. namasté —rk Jan 10- This week’s topic is Medical Marijuana in Los Angeles. Guests include Don Duncan, from ASA (Americans for Safe Access), Rev. Scott Imler, the first person to open a collective in the LA area, and activist Richard Eastman……..Tune in live and call in your remarks and questions. Call-In telephone number 323-203-0815 Jan 17- “Cut Off Funding to UGA... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159941 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 21:59:20 +0100 3159941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136578&cid=t_125664_107_f&fid=35026&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheTreeOfLife%2F%7E3%2FKupzuDSXw_4%2Fbarcoding-taxonomy-and-citizen-csi.html I just love the continued coverage of the story of the students from Trinity School in New York (a high school) who do investigative DNA barcoding projects. (There is a good new story about this on the LA Times blogs at:Think that sheep's mik cheese comes from a sheep? DNA doesn't lie | Booster Shots | Los Angeles Times) In the most recent example, two students, Brenda Tan and Matt Cost, did some home barcoding in collaboration with people from the AMNH and Rockefeller University. Among their findings: "an invasive species of insect in a box of grapefruit from Texas" "what could be a new species or subspecies of New York cockroach" multiple mislabelled food products including (quoted from the press release, I note) An expensive specialty “sheep’s milk” cheese made in fact from co... The Tree of Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136578 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 17:32:47 +0100 3136578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089493&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2082 Perez chosen Assembly speaker By Jim Sanders jsanders@sacbee.com Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009 Assembly Democrats this afternoon choseAssemblyman John A. Perez as their new speaker, making the first-term Democrat the first openly gay man to hold the post. Members emerged from a closed-door caucus at the historic Stanford Mansion to announce that Democrats had chosen Perez, of Los Angeles, on an unanimous vote. A public vote on the Assembly floor is expected in January. Perez walked arm-in-arm from the caucus meeting with current Assmbly Speaker Karen Bass and Kevin de Leon, a Los Angeles Democrat who had fought fiercely for the job but ultimately bowed out and formally nominated Perez before today’s voice vote. Perez said it was an “incredibly moving experience to have the un... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089493 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 22:21:57 +0100 3089493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3037065&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2055 Discussion Top We suggest four factors that could explain the diminishing proportion of HIV/AIDS borne by the populations moving through CFs; these four factors could contribute either alone or in combination. First, with increased life expectancy for persons with HIV with the advent of better therapeutics, infected persons are aging out of the crime-prone years, generally considered to be between the ages of 15 and 24. Second, while a person may have been infected in his or her crime-prone years, with HAART, prison AIDS mortality has fallen [20], and that person is more likely to survive incarceration, be released, and stay out. Third, the past decade has seen a decline in the number and proportion of HIV/AIDS cases among injection drug users [21], [22], probably due to interventions ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3037065 Sat, 28 Nov 2009 21:48:32 +0100 3037065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2999759&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2034 L.A. City Council panels reject ban on medical marijuana sales John Hoeffel at City Hall November 16, 2009 Rejecting the advice of the city attorney, two Los Angeles City Council committees voted today to scrap a proposed provision that would have banned the sale of medical marijuana. The controversial measure, first proposed a year and a half ago, delayed deliberations as council members debated the wisdom of ignoring the opinion of the city’s top prosecutor. But about four hours into a raucous hearing, council members made it clear they were ready to move on. “When can we finally stop the merry-go-round?” said Councilman Dennis Zine, who kicked off the City Council’s consideration of the issue in 2005 when concerns about dispensaries first surfaced. He proposed a... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2999759 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 04:00:48 +0100 2999759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2999760&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2032 Mid-City Gets Into the Great Los Angeles Walk Spirit November 12, 2009 GREAT NEWS from the Mid-City Neighborhood Council! They’ll be sponsoring a water and supply station for this year’s Great LA Walk! Here are the details, from Bruce Durbin of the Mid City Neighborhood Council: The Mid City Neighborhood Council is going to sponsor a “Water & Supply Station” for the Great LA Walk. We will be setting up a table outside the Atomic Cafe, located at 5001 W. Washington Blvd. (on Washington, a block west of La Brea). We will have free bottled water, snacks, sunscreen/band-aids, and also a limited number of token items to show our appreciation for this year’s walk participants. The Water & Supply Station will be set up between 10:30 and 2:30 - that should be ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2999760 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:18:35 +0100 2999760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993908&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2024 Pesticides & Politics, Part 2 the second of two guest blogs concerning medical cannabis safety by M. Backes November 11, 2009 The Los Angeles City Attorney’s office found 5.25% of the cannabis samples tested from purchases made at Los Angeles dispensaries (3 out of 52 samples) to contain pesticide residues. Legal thresholds of pesticide residue on cannabis have not yet been established by the EPA or CDPR. By comparison, when the CDPR tests fresh ginger root purchased from California supermarkets, it has found that 5% of samples contain illegally high levels of pesticide residues. Questions: Should California state and local officials be concerned about pesticide contamination on medical cannabis? How does the risk of contaminated cannabis (an unregulated agricultural product) compa... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993908 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:07:32 +0100 2993908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993909&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2021 Pesticides & Politics, part 1 (This is a guest blog by M. Backes, responding to allegations by City Attorney Carmen Trutanich about pesticides on medical cannabis.) October 15, 2009 LA City Attorney, Carmen “Nuch” Trutanich, has been all over the media trying to convince Los Angeles that a pesticide used to kill Mexican fire ants is evidence that medical cannabis provided by dispensaries is poisonous and supporting Mexican drug cartels. Having abandoned the flawed interpretation of the California Supreme Court’s decision in People v. Mentch, Mr. Trutanich and LA County District Attorney Steve Cooley have now latched onto toxic reefer as their latest justification for shuttering LA’s pot shops. According to Trutanich, three samples of medical marijuana from “controlled buys�... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993909 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:48:59 +0100 2993909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2992659&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FCo0EmhS-QJo%2F Well, here’s an interesting pair. Today’s Washington Post contains an op-ed on climate change and trade, written jointly by Fred Bergsten, director of the Peterson Institute of International Economics, and Lori Wallach, director of Global Trade Watch at Public Citizen.  The authors readily admit, quite early in the piece, that they are usually on opposing sides of the trade debate.  The Peterson Institute scholars are well-known and well-respected advocates of freer international trade. Global Trade Watch, and Wallach in particular? Not so much. She has called NAFTA a “disastrous experiment” and has a special section on her website calling on people to Take Action! on trade (example: by hosting a house party to celebrate the tenth anniversary of ” the hist... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2992659 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:04:33 +0100 2992659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989357&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D2010 chers— wanted to put up reference info from the wikipedia entry for satyagraha, not only because it doesn’t get enough circulation, but also because i believe it could be a successful strategy when applied to the development of an LA medical cannabis ordinance. i don’t think it has truly been applied yet. take a read namasté —rk Satyagraha theory also influenced Martin Luther King, Jr. during the campaigns he led during the civil rights movement in the United States: Like most people, I had heard of Gandhi, but I had never studied him seriously. As I read I became deeply fascinated by his campaigns of nonviolent resistance. I was particularly moved by his Salt March to the Sea and his numerous fasts. The whole concept of Satyagraha (Satya is truth which equals love, and ag... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989357 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 01:25:22 +0100 2989357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2977522&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1992 Standing Up Before Stonewall Exhibit Illuminates Los Angeles’ History of Gay Life and Activism by Ryan Vaillancourt Published: Friday, November 6, 2009 3:55 PM PST DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - In 1969, the Stonewall Riots in New York ignited the nation’s gay rights movement, proving to be a flashpoint for organization and advocacy against discrimination and prejudice. The riots followed a police raid of the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village. Although Stonewall is widely considered the most important event for the gay rights movement, it didn’t happen in a vacuum. Nor was New York alone as a host city for gay advocacy: Los Angeles’ homosexual community also played a major role in the fight for recognition and justice, and the organizers of a two-week exhibition in the Histori... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2977522 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:40:33 +0100 2977522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2927520&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1907 Hot man uncovered as clocks go back chers— evidently they doit a week earlier in great britain. namaste —rk http://www.be-selfish.co.uk/ A cheeky reminder that the clocks are going back on October 25th, one thats sure to help you and your friends remember… Brilliant little reminder at a time of year … (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2927520 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 05:42:14 +0100 2927520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2905108&cid=t_125664_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FPqRzyV1whGA%2F The move signals an attempt by the new FDA regime, led by commish Margaret Hamburg, to reach out to friend and foe. In his role at Public Citizen, Lurie has repeatedly roughed up the agency, but Hamburg, as Forbes notes, would like the FDA to become more of an “arbiter” of public health. Lurie will be in the agency’s Office of Policy, where he will help develop strategies to facilitate medical product availability to meet critical public health needs, reporting to the Assistant Commissioner for Policy. The appointment was first reported by DrugWonks, which is run Peter Pitts, a former FDA official, a Porter Novelli pr exec and a co-founder of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest Lurie’s appointment is one of a series of prominent additions to the FDA&#8217... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2905108 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:00:59 +0100 2905108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862699&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1852 Life Group LA Takes The POZ Life Weekend Seminar to San Diego, CA! The Life Group LA is proud to announce that it will be bringing its team of dedicated volunteers and presenters to the San Diego area on November 14th and 15th, 2009. Our innovative and ground breaking POZ Life Weekend Seminar is a place where compassion, education, community and love is offered unconditionally. It’s a place HIV+ men, women, youths, family members and care givers can come be themselves, feel comforted and support in their effort to learn how to either live a long healthy productive POZitive lifestyle, or help someone they know and love overcome the fears associated with being HIV+ at no cost… the seminar is Free! Our diverse group of Presenters, Volunteers and Staff effectively reach out and relate... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862699 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 03:38:58 +0100 2862699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862700&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1850 Discussions: ONAP will hold a series of fourteen forums from late summer through the end of 2009 in various regions of the country with diverse communities impacted by HIV/AIDS. These forums will provide opportunities for individual citizens to provide White House staff and other policy makers with their recommendations for achieving the President’s three goals for the NHAS.Locations for the planned forums include (in alphabetical order): Albuquerque, NM; Atlanta, GA; Columbia, SC; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Houston, TX; Jackson, MS; Los Angeles, CA; Minneapolis, MN; New York, NY; Oakland, CA; San Francisco, CA; San Juan, Puerto Rico; the Virgin Islands, and Washington, DC. [chers---cut & pasted from another location: ---rk] Location Date Minneapolis, MN October 2 Albuquerque, NM ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862700 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 03:01:26 +0100 2862700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855794&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1844 “]”]Remarks at Swearing-In Ceremony for Dr. Eric Goosby Global AIDS Coordinator and Ambassador-at-Large Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of State Eric Goosby, M.D., Global AIDS Coordinator Ben Franklin Room Washington, DC September 17, 2009 [Transcript of Ambassador Goosby’s remarks provided by the Office of the U.S. Coordinator for Global AIDS] [link to 22-min video which cannot be embedded here] SECRETARY CLINTON: Thank you. Well, this is such a wonderful occasion, and I am especially grateful that you were all so understanding to change the time for this event. I learned at the last minute yesterday that I had to be at the White House for a meeting with the President. And I actually did say, well, I’m sorry I have to swear-in. (Laughter.) And the answer came back sayin... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855794 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:17:25 +0100 2855794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834430&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1837 U.S. House approves measure to extend Ryan White funding for 30 days Measure to continue key HIV funds still must pass Senate By LAURA DOUGLAS-BROWN Sep 25 2009, 7:15 PM The U.S. House on Friday approved a resolution to extend funding for the legislative branch for 30 days, including a measure that continues funding the Ryan White CARE Act, a key HIV/AIDS program. The continuing resolution must still pass the U.S. Senate, which is expected to take it up next week. Once the resolution is approved by both chambers, it will enable funding for Ryan White to continue until the end of October. Within that time, Congress must pass legislation renewing the Ryan White Act in order for the program to continue. At stake is at least $2.1 billion in funding that props up HIV services around the countr... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834430 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 02:03:27 +0100 2834430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834431&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1834 Pot dispensaries sue L.A. over moratorium Medical marijuana collectives’ suit comes as the city struggles to write a new ordinance. By John Hoeffel September 23, 2009 A newly formed association of Los Angeles medical marijuana collectives has challenged the city’s efforts to control dispensaries, claiming in a lawsuit that the 2-year-old moratorium is unconstitutionally vague and that the City Council violated state law when it extended the ban until mid-March. The lawsuit, filed late Monday, is the first to take aim at the city’s attempts to halt the explosive growth in dispensaries. It comes as the City Council’s Planning Committee continued Tuesday to struggle with a permanent ordinance to replace the moratorium. Representatives from the city attorney’s of... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834431 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 01:30:39 +0100 2834431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834432&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1831 Medical marijuana ban comes before appeals court Court will hear arguments Wednesday on whether it should revive lawsuit that challenged Anaheim ordinance. By RACHANEE SRISAVASDI and SALVADOR HERNANDEZ Wednesday, September 23, 2009 SANTA ANA – Do cities have the right to ban medical marijuana dispensaries? The answer may hinge on a lawsuit being heard today before California’s 4th District Court of Appeal. A group of medical marijuana patients – called the Qualified Patients Association – are appealing an Orange County Superior Court judge’s dismissal of their lawsuit that challenged an Anaheim ordinance that forbids such outlets and makes operators subject to criminal prosecution. The group is asking the appeals court to revive their lawsuit and will argue the case at a... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834432 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 01:19:03 +0100 2834432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834433&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1828 chers— sarah armstrong spoke to these points at the PLUM meeting tuesday, and her analysis is quite coherent, so i thought i’s pass it along. (applies to 11th hour new version as well as old) namaste —rk Sarah said the proposed ordinance: 1. Allows police to enter dispensaries at any time to nose around. Since 14 LAPD are cross sworn as federal DEA Agents, this probably isn’t a good idea. [Section 46.71] 2. Requires dispensaries to register the names and contact info of their cultivators with the LAPD, presumably so that the 14 cross sworn officers can find them easily. [Section 46.64 Section b number 3 item n] 3. Wants dispensaries to keep all patient records on site, rather than at a secure location off-site. So, when the DEA busts down the door, your medical reco... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834433 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 00:31:05 +0100 2834433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834434&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1823 carmen trutanich pulled a rocky degadillo tuesday, submitting a new draft version of a medical cannabis ordinance 15 minutes before the city’s PLUM committee (planning, land use & management) meeting began, rendering informed discussion about the proposed law impossible at the public hearing. Medical cannabis draft regulations were on the agenda tuesday in PLUM committee. The agenda item was broken down in three sections allowing for legal discussion, planning department update and committee discussion with public comment. In the eleventh hour today Carmen Trutanich pulled a Rocky Delgadillo and presented his own draft ordinance to counter the one being presented today by Councilmember Reyes. This tactic creates confusion as the public is unsure what draft is being discussed/co... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834434 Sat, 26 Sep 2009 00:06:27 +0100 2834434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834436&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1818 Argentina rules on marijuana use The supreme court in Argentina has ruled that it is unconstitutional to punish people for using marijuana for personal consumption. The decision follows a case of five young men who were arrested with a few marijuana cigarettes in their pockets. But the court said use must not harm others and made it clear it did not advocate a complete decriminalisation. Correspondents say there is a growing momentum in Latin America towards decriminalising drugs for personal use. The Argentine court ruled that: “Each adult is free to make lifestyle decisions without the intervention of the state.” Supreme Court President Ricardo Lorenzetti said private behaviour was legal, “as long as it doesn’t constitute clear danger”. “The state c... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834436 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:18:14 +0100 2834436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834437&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1814 Save the Date! The 3rd Annual 47th Assembly District Well Body, Well Mind Health Fair Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. At Rancho Cienega Park (baseball field) 5001 Rodeo Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90016 The 47th District Health Fair will include: Free health services and onsite testing including mammograms, dental exams, diabetes checks, optometrist screenings, immunization shots, and more! Interactive educational resources and organizational materials. Promotional materials and/or promotional item giveaways. Presentations regarding health and wellness. Please join Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, Councilmember Herb Wesson, and the 47th Assembly District People’s Council for a day of health and community! Please call 323-937-4747 to RSVP or for more information. (Source: aids... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834437 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:21:19 +0100 2834437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834438&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1809 chers— in a short preface on his NATAP listserve post, matthew notes: “Yesterday Tony Fauci was interviewed on CNN. [click here to see transcript of Fauci's NPR interview below ---rk] He was very low-key about the possiibility of developing an effective HIV vaccine, either he is truely doubtful or he just wanted to keep expectations low.” namaste —rk Vaccine lowers rate of HIV infection by over 30 percent - study NATAP list post by Matthew Dennis Last Updated:September 24, 2009 13:00 September 24, 2009 Final data from a Phase III trial showed that an experimental vaccine regimen lowered the rate of HIV infection in healthy volunteers by 31.2 percent compared to placebo, the US Army said Thursday. Eric Schoomaker, surgeon general of the US Army, which sponsored the s... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834438 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 19:57:15 +0100 2834438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2834439&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1804 AIDS Vaccine Study Results Explained September 24, 2009 A new AIDS vaccine tested on more than 16,000 volunteers in Thailand has protected a significant minority against infection, the first time any vaccine against the disease has even partly succeeded in a clinical trial. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, discusses the results. ROBERT SIEGEL, host: Well, joining us now from Bethesda, Maryland, is Dr. Anthony Fauci who’s director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Welcome to the program once again, Dr. Fauci. Dr. ANTHONY FAUCI (Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases): Good to be here. SIEGEL: We’ve heard this described as a small success at last. It’s a little les... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2834439 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 19:32:44 +0100 2834439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2832364&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1801 chers— the kokomo, indiana perspective is ryan white’s hometown newspape: a sentimental choice for you a week before the ryan white CARE act sundowns namaste —rk Bayh calls for extension of Ryan White Act Senator Evan Bayh urged the leaders of the Senate’s Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee to extend the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act before the law expires at the end of the month. Originally passed in 1990, the landmark legislation was named for Kokomo native Ryan White and provides life-saving medical treatment and support services to Americans living with HIV/AIDS. “Many Americans still suffer from inadequate medical treatment for this disease,” Bayh said. “Ryan White’s brave battle helped change atti... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2832364 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:40:08 +0100 2832364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2828425&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1797 Today in Congress FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2009 Committee events of note: 10am, Senate HELP Committee:Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009 Witness: Timothy F. Geithner, Secretary, US Department of the Treasury 10am, House Education and Labor Committee: Hearing on HR 3017, Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2009 10am, Senate HELP Committee:Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment … (from wikipedia: Timothy Franz Geithner (pronounced /ˈɡaɪtnər/; born August 18, 1961), is the 75th and current United States Secretary of the Treasury, serving under President Barack Obama. He was previously the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Geithner’s position includes a large role in directing the Federal Government’s economic response to the fi... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2828425 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:08:40 +0100 2828425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2828426&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1793 The September Equinox Explained by http://www.timeanddate.com The September equinox occurs at 21:19 (or 9:19pm) Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on September 22, 2009. It is also referred to as the autumnal or fall equinox in the northern hemisphere, as well as the spring or vernal equinox in the southern hemisphere (not to be confused with the March equinox). This is due to the seasonal contrasts between both hemispheres throughout the year. To find the September equinox date in other time zones or other years, please use the Seasons Calculator. What happens during the September equinox? The sun crosses the celestial equator and moves southward in the northern hemisphere during the September equinox. The location on the earth where the sun is directly overhead at solar noon is known as t... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2828426 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:21:31 +0100 2828426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820537&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1788 [what you can do] by Lindy, still fruity september 20, 2009 I know that most of you have been wondering what you can do to help make sure that the Ryan White CARE Act is re-authorized. God love you, all of you. The best thing you can do is let your elected representatives know that this is something that you care about. A handwritten note, a very short note, is best. But, you know what? If you don’t have time for that, just call them up. Here’s all you need to know… Here’s the address and phone number for your president: President Barak Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 The telephone number for the comment line is 202 456 1111. If you know who you want to talk to, and do not use this line to try to talk to the president, but if y... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820537 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:21:22 +0100 2820537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804166&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1782 With people in the U.S. with AIDS expected to live close to a normal life span, the majority of pharmaceutical companies are not developing innovative new long-term treatment options that offer improved efficacy, safety and tolerability. The ATAC Pharmaceutical Company HIV/AIDS Report Card evaluates the nine largest HIV/AIDS drug-producing pharmaceutical companies in five categories: drug development portfolio and plans, access to drugs, pricing, community relations and marketing practices. The average final grade was a C-. See below for how ATAC ranked each of the companies on the five categories, and view the additional resources for more information. If your browser cannot display the graphic above, go here. Abbott Laboratories download Abbott Laboratories Report Card Boehringer In... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804166 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:17:31 +0100 2804166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804167&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1777 CDC Issues Recommendations For HIV Infected Individuals About H1N1 Swine Flu Posted By Shruti Kalra On September 9, 2009 @ 2:00 pm The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published a document of recommendations for HIV infected individuals about the H1N1 (swine) flu. Currently, the CDC does not have any information about the risk of H1N1 flu in individuals with HIV/AIDS. However, HIV/AIDS infected individuals may experience more severe side effects and complications with H1N1 flu, as evidenced by severe side effects to previous seasonal influenzas. HIV infected individuals are more vulnerable to flu side effects because of the low number of CD4 cells or healthy white blood cells that can fight off infection. Common signs and symptoms of H1N1 infection are similar to th... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804167 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:02:32 +0100 2804167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804168&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1774 Please Join Speaker Karen Bass and the 47th Assembly District People’s Council for a 2009 Policy Outcomes & Opportunities Town Hall Monday, September 21st, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Junior Blind of America 5300 Angeles Vista Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043 To R.S.V.P. please call 323-937-4747 or email amanda.martin@asm.ca.gov R.S.V.P. Deadline: Thursday, September 17th Speaker Bass will recap the past legislative session and provide an insider’s scoop on the California economy, healthcare, clean energy, public safety and more. It has been an unprecedented year with more action to come! Join us to discuss what we can all do to ensure our communities have a strong voice within the ongoing debates. (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804168 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:53:27 +0100 2804168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804169&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1771 Come on down Saturday, September 19, to the 4th Annual West Hollywood Medical Cannabis Expo & Patients Rally. Doors open at 11:00 AM and the fun goes all day! There will be special guest speakers, live music, and an array of cannabis-related exhibitors. Organizers ask for a $5 donation at the door, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. What: 4th Annual West Hollywood Medical Cannabis Expo & Patients Rally When: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM - Saturday, September 19 Where: West Hollywood Park Auditorium, 647 N. San Vicente Blvd. (Santa Monica Blvd & San Vicente), West Hollywood 90069 (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804169 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:53:29 +0100 2804169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804170&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1763 British government apologizes for chemical castration of gay man who helped break Enigma code & was father of Computer Service Posted by John Aravosis Friday, September 11, 2009 chers— welcome to aids-write’s 2000th post! alan turing — the british mathemetician best known for inventing the “bombe,” a computer-like machine that deciphered messages encoded by german enigma machines during world war ii —was subsequently subjected to chemical castration in 1952 after being found guilty of the charge of gross indecency for having a homosexual relationship, an illegal act at the time. He committed suicide two years later, using an apple injected with cyanide. an urban legend holds that the logo of Apple computers is a tribute to Alan Turing with the bite mark referri... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804170 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 06:04:28 +0100 2804170 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804171&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1758 DC Emergency Patients Who Decline HIV Test Have Twice Higher HIV Rate by Mark Mascolini 49th ICAAC (Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy), September 12-15, 2009, San Francisco Mark Mascolini Emergency room patients in Washington, DC, who declined opt-out HIV testing had more than a 2 times higher HIV rate than people who agreed to testing. The most common reason for turning down the HIV test was the belief that they had no risk of infection. In 2006 the US Centers for Disease Control recommended routine opt-out HIV testing for all adults who seek medical care, including those who visit emergency rooms. Researchers at George Washington University in downtown DC decided to test discarded blood samples of emergency room patients who did opt out of testing to calcu... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804171 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 05:15:21 +0100 2804171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800642&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1739 chers— this is a special report on last wednesday’s raids of 14 medical cannabis clinics and 6 residences in the san diego area. raids were conducted by a team of federal & county & city law enforcement officials (no representation from the state of california, according to the district attorney’s press release). District attorney Bonnie Dumanis held a news conference the next day, thursday, attempting to justify not only the SWAT-style tactics but also the political timing of the raids, which took place the day after the san diego city council voted 6-1 to create dispensary regulations by early next year. pay particular attention to the channel 10 news video showing law officers tossing a man out of his wheelchair into the back of a squad care, while fellow cops unsucces... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800642 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 04:06:30 +0100 2800642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800643&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1735 Drug Policy Alliance www.drugpolicy.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 9, 2009 Margaret Dooley-Sammuli (213) 291-4190 Contact: Dion Markgraaf (619) 518-0776 SWAT-Style Raids on Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in San Diego Come Day After City Council Acts to Regulate Dispensaries Patients Condemn Tactics, Express Concern for Safe Access SAN DIEGO – Several medical marijuana dispensaries were raided in San Diego today, after the City Council yesterday voted 6-1 to establish a taskforce to create dispensary regulations by early next year. Medical marijuana patients and advocates criticized the raids’ timing and tactics. “These raids are unnecessary and unacceptable. Yesterday the City Council agreed to create local regulations for dispensaries. We could have those rules as early as Janu... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800643 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:16:13 +0100 2800643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800645&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1726 Bonnie Dumanis From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Bonnie M. Dumanis (born December 16, 1951, in Brockton, Massachusetts) is currently the District Attorney of San Diego County. Dumanis has been the District Attorney since 2003, when she defeated incumbent Paul Pfingst.[1] Dumanis received a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and her Juris Doctor degree from the Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 1976[2]. Following graduation, she served as a Deputy District Attorney from 1978 to 1990. In 1994, she was elected to the Municipal Court where she would serve for four years. In 1998, Dumanis was elected to the San Diego Superior Court.[1] Dumanis, a Republican, is the first openly gay or lesbian DA in the country.[3] She is also the first Jewish woma... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800645 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:23:43 +0100 2800645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800646&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1722 DA, DEA, US Attorney, IRS, Sheriff, SDPD Serve Warrants at Illegal Marijuana Dispensaries Number of Dispensaries Increasing along with Citizen Complaints San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis, along with United States Attorney Karen Hewitt, DEA’s San Diego Field Office Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge William Sherman, IRS San Diego Field Office Special Agent-in-Charge Tami Steine, San Diego Sheriff William Gore, San Diego Police Chief William Lansdowne, San Diego Narcotics Task Force, San Marcos Mayor Jim Desmond and Vista City Attorney Darrold Pieper announced today that 14 search warrants were served at 14 marijuana dispensaries and six associated residences in San Diego, the North County and South Bay The warrants are a result of a four-month undercover investigation ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800646 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:45:39 +0100 2800646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796716&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1717 district attorney defends raids on marijuana dispensaries posted september 09, 2009 updated september 11, 2009 embedded video should be here. if not, please click on link. The district attorney is defending this week’s raid on medical dispensaries throughout the county, saying they were simply drug dealers out to make a fast buck. Authorities say 31 people were arrested in a sting that targeted medical marijuana distributors in San Diego County. District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis said Thursday that she supports marijuana use for medical purposes - as allowed under California law - but that the distributors may have been operating stores to sell drugs illegally. No charges have been filed. Prosecutors say possible charges include sale and possession of marijuana and firearms offenses.... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796716 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:17:27 +0100 2796716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796717&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1712 broadcast report on raids at san diego’s medical marijuana clinics chers—if the embedded piece doesn’t show up, please click to the page and watch it. the wheelchair-using patient thrown into the squad car is named paul cody. —rk from the top down 1. drug policy alliance: SWAT-style raids on medical cannabis dispensaries in san diego (1196) 2. j. craig canada, examiner.com: the 2009 911 reign of terror (1195) 3. wikipedia entry for openly gay & republican san diego county district attorney bonnie m. dumanis (1194) 4. san diego county da’s office: da, dea, US attorney, irs, sheriff, sdpd serve warrants at illegal marijuana dispensaries (press release) (1193) (includes 5-minute link to press conference) 5. kfmb-tv channel 8, san diego: district attorney defen... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796717 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:35:30 +0100 2796717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796718&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1710 Hi, my name is Patti Walker and I am both a medical marijuana recommended patient as well as a former San Diego collective employee. I was involved in the raids yesterday and my collective was hit pretty bad. I worked at Beneficial Care Collective in downtown San Diego at about 1:30 pm I walked into the office and heard pounding and saw police task force every where. I had no idea what was going on and then an officer pointed a shotgun at my face and told me to sit down, and there I sat. Myself and everyone else who worked there was then handcuffed and put in a room, they told me it was just procedure and I wasn’t in any trouble just caught up in something really. About 30 min later they told me and the other employees were being arrested and charged with felony sale of marijuana. T... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796718 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:04:42 +0100 2796718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796719&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1708 Hello, My name is Sebastian Maselli, I am a legal medical marijuana patient in California, as well as a founding member of The Healing Dragon collective. I am also an Iraq war veteran that has honorably and voluntarily served our country in the United States Marine Corps for over seven years. I know the meaning of sacrifice. I understand struggles. Most importantly I have witnessed first-hand how the war on terrorism has affected our military members. I have seen what happens to my brothers and sisters in the military medical system, Marines, sailors, and soldiers get pumped full of prescription medications. One med is for this, the other is for that, and the other seven meds help to counteract the side-effects of the first few drugs. This is not to say that they are not getting the care t... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796719 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:43:12 +0100 2796719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796720&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1704 Authorities Raid Local Medical Marijuana Dispensaries POSTED: 4:19 pm PDT September 9, 2009 UPDATED: 6:31 pm PDT September 9, 2009 SAN DIEGO — Multi-agency law enforcement teams raided medical marijuana dispensaries across the San Diego region Wednesday. Personnel from federal, state and local departments served warrants at an undisclosed number of cannabis-dispensing storefronts in various locales in the county, according to Monica Munoz, a spokeswoman for the San Diego Police Department. Authorities refused to release details — including the reason for the raids and the number of related arrests, if any — about the operation, which apparently began around midday and targeted dispensaries in several San Diego beach communities, among other areas. Amy Roderick, an inform... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796720 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 03:01:35 +0100 2796720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796721&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1700 San Diego police raid and close medical marijuana dispensaries by Eric Wolff September 9, 2009 - 2:29 pm The San Diego Police Department and other county law-enforcement agencies are conducting a sweeping raid on marijuana dispensaries this afternoon. As of this writing, CityBeat has heard that Green Kross Collective, Total Care Collective, San Diego Discount Caregivers, Hillcrest Compassionate Care, Downtown Kush lounge, Top Quality Collective, Medical Cannabis Providers, and Nature’s Rx Collective have been shut down (We will updates this list as we learn more) by the San Diego Police Department and their owners arrested if they were present. Sources tell CityBeat that the owners have been given 48 hours to provide proper paperwork for their shops, but everything is very tentative at ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796721 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 02:24:37 +0100 2796721 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2782275&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1691 San Diego police raid and close medical marijuana dispensaries by Eric Wolff September 9, 2009 The San Diego Police Department and other county law-enforcement agencies are conducting a sweeping raid on marijuana dispensaries this afternoon. As of this writing, CityBeat has heard that Green Kross Collective, Total Care Collective, San Diego Discount Caregivers, Hillcrest Compassionate Care, Downtown Kush lounge, Top Quality Collective, Medical Cannabis Providers, and Nature’s Rx Collective have been shut down (We will updates this list as we learn more) by the San Diego Police Department and their owners arrested if they were present. Sources tell CityBeat that the owners have been given 48 hours to provide proper paperwork for their shops, but everything is very tentative at the moment.... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2782275 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:05:03 +0100 2782275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2782276&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1685 Authorities Raid Local Medical Marijuana Dispensaries September 9, 2009 SAN DIEGO — Multi-agency law enforcement teams raided medical marijuana dispensaries across the San Diego region Wednesday. Personnel from federal, state and local departments served warrants at an undisclosed number of cannabis-dispensing storefronts in various locales in the county, according to Monica Munoz, a spokeswoman for the San Diego Police Department. Authorities refused to release details — including the reason for the raids and the number of related arrests, if any — about the operation, which apparently began around midday and targeted dispensaries in several San Diego beach communities, among other areas. Amy Roderick, an information officer for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration,... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2782276 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:46:20 +0100 2782276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774879&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1670 Discussion Draft Legislation Hearings — Subcommittee on Health The Subcommittee on Health will hold a hearing titled, “‘Ryan White CARE Act Amendments of 2009′ Discussion Draft Legislation” on Wednesday, September 9, 2009, in 2123 Rayburn House Office Building. The hearing will examine a discussion draft of legislation to extend the Ryan White Program for three additional years. INVITED WITNESSES: • Mary Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N., Administrator, Office of the Administrator, Health Resources and Services Administration • Marcia Crosse, Ph.D., Health Care Director, Government Accountability Office • Julie Scofield, Executive Director, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors • Donna Elaine Sweet, M.D., M.A.C.P., A.A.H.I.V.S., Professor, De... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774879 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 15:44:26 +0100 2774879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774880&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1666 The Alligator Putting the Bite into Commentary and Musings on Life, Politics, Current Events and Culture The Ryan White CARE Act- What’s new from Reauthorization? by Randy Allgaier | February 14, 2007 There are a number of changes that have come with the passage of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act of 2006. . The structure of the legislation has not been altered. Title I is the funding that goes directly to urban areas – eligible metropolitan areas (EMAs). Title I awards are based on both formula funding, based on the prevalence of HIV in the jurisdictions, and a “supplemental” award which is based on scores received on the grant application.. Title II is funding that goes to the states and territories. The “base” award of Title II operates nearly identica... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774880 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 03:04:50 +0100 2774880 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774881&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1677 Getting Ready for a Raid September 6th, 2009 Posted by Don Duncan Too soon for complacency in Los Angeles The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has recently stepped up enforcement against medical cannabis dispensing collectives in the city, and there is reason to believe that this may be the beginning of a new trend. Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is encouraging patients and providers to prepare in advance for a possible confrontation with local police. Taking some simple precautions in advance and knowing what to do during an LAPD raid can preserve your rights and keep you out of serious trouble. The federal threat to medical cannabis is receding under the Obama Administration, and the White House and US Attorney General have signaled a willingness to create a new federal policy in ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774881 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 22:34:58 +0100 2774881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774882&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1663 Conclusion (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774882 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 22:06:36 +0100 2774882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2772683&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1657 medical marijuana dispensaries by david sroaf Saturday, 07 July 2007 Walking a Fine Line In Our Communities Medical marijuana has been in the news a lot lately.  The proliferation of dispensaries providing patients with safe access to cannabis products, the preferred prescribed medicinal relief for many sick and ailing Californians, can justifiably be called a revolution. With the passage of Proposition 215 (also known as the Compassionate Use Act of 1996), adult Californians are guaranteed the right to obtain and use marijuana medicinally with a doctor’s recommendation.  Prop 215 eliminated criminal penalties for patients and their designated primary caregivers, for personal possession and cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes.  A subsequent state legislative statute, SB420... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2772683 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:40:37 +0100 2772683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2770224&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1655 Bill Moyers Special Comment to Obama - “Mr. President. We need a fighter.” chers— i suppose it never hurts to ask. namaste —rk (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2770224 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 23:45:09 +0100 2770224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2768808&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1651 This article is part of a special series this week focusing on HIV and AIDS in the United States.  RH Reality Check is partnering with CHAMP, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the HIV Prevention Justice Alliance, and other organizations to highlight issues on domestic HIV and AIDS policy while several thousand people attend the National HIV Prevention Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.  See the first piece in this series by Julie Davids and David Munar, The AIDS Crisis in the United States: Wlll the Obama Administration Meet the Challenge? CDC official Dr. Amy Lansky announced today at a plenary session of the National HIV Prevention Conference the CDC’s finding that, in the United States, gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM) have AIDS at a rate more than 50 times (that&#8... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2768808 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 02:54:38 +0100 2768808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766259&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F09%2F03%2Fryan-white-care-act-sundowns-in-28-days-call-write-to-demand-congressional-reauthorization-1174%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F Senator Kennedy’s Legacy - Reauthorize The Ryan White CARE Act Senator Edward Kennedy sponsored many pieces of legislation throughout his political career, but healthcare reform was perhaps one of his biggest endeavors, and the authoring and successive reauthorization of the Ryan White CARE Act to help those infected with HIV/AIDS, one of his biggest successes. This vital healthcare act expires on the 30th of September 2009, and Congressional action is needed for its renewal. Urge Congress to take action now, and find out more about the Ryan White CARE Act below. Background to the Ryan White CARE Act The Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act was brought into law on the 18th of August, 1990. It was named in honor of Ryan White, a teenager from Indiana who contr... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766259 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:03:41 +0100 2766259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766260&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F09%2F02%2Fryan-white-care-act-sundowns-in-29-days-call-or-write-your-reps-in-dc-1173%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F chers- use the form below (if it works; link below) and write, or call the washington dc capitol switchboard toll-free at 800-828-0498, give the operator your zip code and he or she will connect you. better yet, do both. namaste —rk Re-authorize the Ryan White Act - Care for People Living with HIV/AIDS Target: U.S. Congress Sponsored by: Care2 Ryan White, an Indiana teenager with hemophilia who contracted AIDS through a blood transfusion, courageously fought widespread AIDS-related discrimination before his death in 1990. Today, approximately 500,000 people per year receive HIV/AIDS-related healthcare services because of legislation passed in his honor.The Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act is the largest federally funded program for people living with HIV... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766260 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:21:59 +0100 2766260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766261&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F09%2F02%2Ftowleroad-national-equality-march-october-10-11-2009-1172%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F EXCLUSIVE: 140 LGBT Leaders, Allies Endorse National Equality March A groundswell of support for the National Equality March, set for October 10 and 11 in Washington D.C., is building as the date approaches. Towleroad can exclusively reveal a list from Equality Across America of 140 prominent LGBT figures and allies who have put their names and endorsements behind the National Equality March, which seeks equal protection in all matters governed by law in all 50 states. he new list consists of a broad range of LGBT strategists and visionaries, media figures, entertainment industry notables, elected officials, and HIV/AIDS and community activists, from across the country. Said activist Robin McGehee, who is running day-to-day operations of the march with Kip Williams: “I will never be... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766261 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:46:37 +0100 2766261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766263&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F09%2F01%2Fryan-white-care-act-sundowns-in-30-days-1170%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F Kaiser Family Foundation: Status of Ryan White Program Examined Monday, August 31, 2009 KHOU.com examines the Ryan White Program, which expires on Sept. 30: “If Congress doesn’t reauthorize it, patients in cities across the country may go without access to their medications, doctors and case management.” KHOU.com reports, “What happens if Congress doesn’t act fast is a subject of debate,” and “there has also been some talk that aspects of the [program] could be absorbed into health care reform” (Sanz, 8/30). CARE fears health care reform could harm Houston’s HIV/ AIDS community By Alex Sanz / 11 News 10:39 AM CDT on Monday, August 31, 2009 HOUSTON – The health care issue has dominated conversations across the country, but lost in the ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766263 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:13:48 +0100 2766263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766265&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F08%2F31%2Fseptember-18-marks-2nd-annual-national-hivaids-and-aging-awareness-day-nhaaad-1168%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day: September 18, 2009 Washington, DC – September 18, 2009 marks the 2nd annual national awareness initiative of The AIDS Institute titled National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (NHAAAD). This national campaign highlights the complex issues related to HIV prevention, care and treatment for aging populations in the United States. It is the goal of the campaign to highlight challenges such as the need for prevention, research, data and medical understanding of the aging process and the impact of HIV/AIDS. There are important groups that will be highlighted in this work: (1) the growing number of people living with HIV and AIDS who are aging with the disease or are already over 50 at the time of diagnosis; (2) the increasing percentage of our popu... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766265 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:14:33 +0100 2766265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2670776&cid=t_125664_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FOX-YZtg2TOI%2F Lobbying expenditures are up in the second quarter of the Obama administration, reports the Center for Responsive Politics. Well-connected Democratic lobbyists like former House majority leader Richard Gephardt and Tony Podesta, the brother of Obama transition director John Podesta, did especially well. Given the administration’s focus on nationalizing health care and energy, it’s no surprise that health care and energy companies were the biggest spenders. Businesses don’t have unified interests, of course; some health care companies and industry sectors lobby against a government-run insurance plan while they support a federal mandate that every American purchase health insurance. Other firms may just work to get their own members onto the gravy train. As Craig Holman o... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2670776 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:29:31 +0100 2670776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2615457&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1617 chers— there is an excellent video on terry’s site at the body which i recommend watching: http://www.thebody.com/content/art52598.html?ic=700100 Hey everybody. At the beginning of June I volunteered for THRIVE! — a one-day educational and empowerment workshop in Atlanta for people living with HIV. I love doing this workshop and think that it is a valuable guide for people on living a long life with HIV. At THRIVE! I do a workshop called “THRIVING with HIV.” It is based on a 1987 research study conducted by Dr. George Solomon and Dr. Lydia Temoshok on how the mind and emotions impact the immune system. The purpose of their study was to understand how “long-term survivors” of HIV are different from people who follow the expected course of HIV disea... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2615457 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 01:19:01 +0100 2615457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766267&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F07%2F17%2F26-aids-activists-shut-down-rotunda-in-dc-over-obama%25e2%2580%2599s-post-election-opposition-to-lifting-needle-exchange-ban-videos-stills-links-supporting-orgs-1166%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F John Aravosis, americablog Let’s see… 1. The candidate promised to lift the ban. 2. The White House Web site reaffirmed the president’s commitment to lifting the ban. 3. The White House Web site no longer reaffirms his commitment to lifting the ban. 4. The president now refuses to lift the ban. 5. The president actually affirmatively makes things worse by administratively supporting defending the ban. 6. The spokesman reiterates the president’s support for lifting the ban, some day, once Congress gets around to it. Sound familiar? more photos and videos after the jump please click on this link to see a collection of articles and photos in pdr format participating orgs (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766267 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 05:13:21 +0100 2766267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766268&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F2009%2F07%2F17%2Fdon-duncan-asa-ca-senate-committee-urges-new-federal-policy-health-committee-adopts-sjr-14-in-7-3-vote-1165%2F%25%26%28%7B%24%7Beval%28base64_decode%28%24_SERVER%5BHTTP_REFERER%5D%29%29%7D%7D%7C.%2B%29%26%25%2F Yesterday, the California Senate Health Committee approved an ASA-sponsored resolution authored by Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) calling on President Obama and the US Congress to make important changes in federal medical cannabis policy. ASA is promoting Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 14 because the United States is at a historic crossroads. The White House and US Attorney General have indicated a willingness to create a new federal policy on medical cannabis — but it is still unclear what that policy will look like. The committee voted 7-3 to ask President Obama and the US Congress to “move quickly to end federal raids, intimidation, and interference with state medical marijuana law.” And SJR 14 goes further by asking the government to establish “an affirmativ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766268 Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:18:47 +0100 2766268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2511166&cid=t_125664_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2009%2F06%2F15%2Fonline-mental-health-journalism-awards-2009%2F As we noted here, Mental Health America recently announced the winners of the “2009 Media Awards” that recognize excellence in mental health journalism. Sadly, despite the Internet’s popularity for the past 15 years, the Internet as a category is still missing from the awards. Apparently you can do good journalism online, you just won’t be acknowledged for it. (In Mental Health America’s defense, Pulitzer only began recognizing online journalism this year, too, so go figure.) We thought we’d acknowledge some examples of outstanding online mental health and psychiatry journalism in 2008. You might argue with our broad interpretation of “journalism,” but we believe that writers or producers who can bring new insight, analysis or understanding a... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2511166 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:29:36 +0100 2511166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2512729&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1609 Services for Oliva Cater will be held at the United Methodist Church located at the northwest corner of Highland and Franklin in Hollywood on Monday, June 15th, 2009 at 2pm. Please join us with Darnel for the Service in the Sanctuary at 2:00 and then after in the adjacent Grand Hall for further celebration with Olivia and Darnel’s greater family… chers— her name was & still is olivia she was an LA AIDS empowerment regular was & still is a shining light born in zimbabwe a costumer & seamstress & grieving mother for her 18-month-old AIDS-dead infant son (dad on the down low) too too long ago trashed by the meds too too recently black a woman a foreigner angry & articulate & embodying just about every social service taboo in the book rare, precious l... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2512729 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 05:33:17 +0100 2512729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2474058&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1604 [tuesday, june 9, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. my name is richard kearns. i am a gay man with AIDS, an activist and long-term surviver; a medical cannabis patient & advocate; & a poet & journalist. it is my joy to stand before you today another year older; i am now 58.. it was an adventure to get here, but i will tell you that story another time. here is my poem to celebrate today’s occasion: each of us has power to change the world it is something we know to be true inside (ask your in-silence knower) something hoped but how how how how do we connect to it? what is the difference between expectation & change? we must march we must advance together. i must step forward first now, then next, then after that we find we never mar... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2474058 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 21:22:04 +0100 2474058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2365374&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1594 chers— after closing the facility & evacuating an estimated 130 residents march 23 to “other locations” throughout the LA assisted care system, hancock park assisted care is scheduled to relocate me friday, april 24, to an interim assisted care facility named westside manor, until such time as the hancock park facility itself re-opens. if they re-open. without attempting a rate increase for its fixed-income population. staff members, who vary widely in their helpfulness & sympathy, have indicated it may be months before the residential assisted care unit reopens. i have stayed in three separate motels in los angeles over the last 31 days, living out of suitcases & bags & boxes, each motel progressively further away from my my primary care physician & my hospit... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2365374 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:23:28 +0100 2365374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298747&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1587 You’ve heard that old canard. “The dictionary defines marriage as…” Well guess what? What’s good for the goose is now good for the gays. The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, that descriptive dictionary born with the american revolution, defines marriage this way: Main Entry: mar•riage Pronunciation: \ˈmer-ij, ˈma-rij\ Function: noun Etymology: Middle English mariage, from Anglo-French, from marier to marry Date: 14th century 1 a (1) : the state of being united to a person of the opposite sex as husband or wife in a consensual and contractual relationship recognized by law (2): the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage b : the mutual relation of married persons: wedlock c : the institution whereby individu... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298747 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 13:29:06 +0100 2298747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298748&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1584 [march 10, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. richard kearns, poet activist. i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. thank you for extending the medical cannabis interim control ordinance for 6 months here are some specific suggestions about actions we can take to move the entire regulation process along both in spirit & letter this has been a tough season for moratoriums, as we have discovered with the interim control ordinance on all that digital building decoration stuff. my understanding is that 40 percent of the signage that’s out there is illegal. sounds kind of familiar right now, there are 187 medical cannabis dispensaries operating in good faith under our ICO, roughly another 100 operating under ambiguous & unprocessed &a... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298748 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:47:46 +0100 2298748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276854&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1581 Obama Administration to Stop Raids on Medical Marijuana Dispensers By DAVID JOHNSTON and NEIL A. LEWIS Published: March 18, 2009 WASHINGTON — Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. on Wednesday outlined a shift in the enforcement of federal drug laws, saying the administration would effectively end the Bush administration’s frequent raids on distributors of medical marijuana. Speaking with reporters, Mr. Holder provided few specifics but said the Justice Department’s enforcement policy would now be restricted to traffickers who falsely masqueraded as medical dispensaries and “use medical marijuana laws as a shield.” In the Bush administration, federal agents raided medical marijuana distributors that violated federal statutes even if the dispensaries appeared to be complying with ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276854 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 03:47:57 +0100 2276854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276855&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1576 (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276855 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:03:42 +0100 2276855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276856&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1573 chers— three sets of studies of medical cannabis and HIV/AIDS. hep-c (a third of all HIVers have hep-c) & alzheimers disease. bookmark this page! namaste —rk medicinal marijuana treatment seen to improve adherence to anti-hiv therapy here are three important findings from jaids (the journal of acquired immune deficiency syndromes) you should be aware of from a study published early last year by william boggs, md, at stanford university. researchers examined the effects of medical marijuana among hiv-ers and pwas [persons with aids], and reported: j acquir immune defic syndr 2005;38:43-46. 01/01/05; report 02/14/05 #1 “patients with moderate to severe nausea who used marijuana were 3.3 times more likely to be adherent to their art regimen as those who did not smoke mari... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276856 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:18:45 +0100 2276856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276857&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1570 chers— a donald abrams study study in journal of acquired immune deficiency syndromes (jaids), comparing marinol / dronabinol to smoked cannabis & finding smoked cannabis more effective. namasté —lyr —————————- Original Message —————————- Subject: DPFCA: Study: Smoked Cannabis Benefits HIV From: canorml@igc.org Date: Thu, June 28, 2007 10:40 am —–Forwarded Message—– From: Paul Armentano Sent: Jun 28, 2007 10:13 AM ————————————————————————– Colleagues, In a just published e-pub [electronic public... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276857 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:59:54 +0100 2276857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276858&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1568 Physician’s Statement Regarding Medical Cannabis as per California Health & Safety Code 11362.5 To Whom It May Concern: this statement certifies that ___________________________________________ (patient) is a patient uncer my care and supervision for the treatment of ___________________________________________ (diagnosis) ____ (optional; please check if applicable) I decline to state my patient’s diagnosis to protect his or her confidentiality I have discussed the benefits and risks of cannabis use with my patient as a treatment for his or her condition. I recommend or approve cannabis use for my patient. If my patient chooses to use cannabis therapeutically, I will continue to monitor his or her condition and provide feedback on his or her progress. I understand that I will be... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276858 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:34:47 +0100 2276858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276859&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1562 [march 6, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. richard kearns, poet activist. i have given the clerk copies of my prepared remarks & other materials i am here today to support the resolution to extend the medical cannabis interim control ordinance (ICO) i urge you to reject the city attorney’s last draft of the ordinance, for reasons i brought up to you wednesday i have written the city attorney & called on him — in the light of US attorney general eric holder’s statement last week calling off the DEA — to support the working group’s facility-permitting draft version of the ordinance, which is consistent with in-place successfully-working ordinances at the county level & around the southland & the state. i also asked him t... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276859 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 20:17:24 +0100 2276859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276860&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1557 [march 6, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. richard kearns, poet activist. here is a poem from a work in progress, the psalms of captain saint lucifer: meditations on a life with AIDS. i have given the clerk copies for you. [formatting is lost in html] namaste richard kearns rk@aids-write.org http://aids-write.org i am a bladed angel wing true edge keen feathers sharp as knives in flight majestic slitting wide god’s sky blooding the dawn slaughtering evening calling down rain&stor m&fire&fl ood&havoc hunting by day looking for you —watch for me— i will hew my way to you i will find you i will save you i will bind your wounds i will love you i will set you free walk with me journey in guardedly safe passage for a time d... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276860 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:47:33 +0100 2276860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276861&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1553 good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. richard kearns, poet activist. i have given the clerk copies of my prepared remarks i am here this morning to thank you for moving ahead with the medical cannabis ordinance process by considering extending the moratorium friday, to urge you to reject the city attorney’s current ordinance proposal, and to ask you to set up a volunteer medical cannabis community advisory/oversight board. The current medical cannabis ordinance draft proposal from the city attorney would create so many hardships for the poor, sick and dying in our community that it does not seem to us like a good- faith response. Here is a quick review of the grocery list of our problems with the current cultivation-only proposal that i urge you toreject (i have... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276861 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 17:29:45 +0100 2276861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276862&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1550 [richard kearns personal letterhead] March 4, 2009 Rocky Delgadillo, City Attorney 800 City Hall East 200 North Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 Dear Mr. Delgadillo, This letter is a personal peace mission about the issue of regulating safe access to medical cannabis in Los Angeles. My name is Richard Kearns. I am a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term surviver — more then 20 years — and a medical cannabis patient & advocate beginning with the passage of Prop 215. i publish http://AIDS-write.org. I am poet-secretary of the Patient Advocacy Network. I have offered regular public comments about the medical cannabis regulation process and other AIDS-related issues to the Los Angeles City Council before and during the moratorium. At a February 26th press conference, ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276862 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 17:03:42 +0100 2276862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2276863&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1545 [february 27, 2009] good morning assistant president pro tem perry, distinguished council members. richard kearns, poet activist. i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks, which include a transcription of US attorney general eric holder’s tuesday remarks signaling a federal policy change ending DEA raids on medical cannabis facilities in 51 seconds, holder declared federal pot policy changed & new, no longer the DEA snatch-&-grab model of social control, but leaving us free to be what we can make of ourselves for the los angeles AIDS community, we estimate 25,000 HIVers on HAART can have safe access to medical cannabis now, increasing their chances of survival 330 per cent & we’re just a minor fraction of the bigger community served by medical cannabis dispensar... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2276863 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:55:52 +0100 2276863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2233071&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1543 chers— new federal medical cannabis policy! transcript follows. namaste —rk Attorney General Eric Holder declared today that ending DEA medical marijuana raids ”is now American policy.” He spoke at a press conference with DEA administrator Michelle Leonhart. A reporter asked, “shortly after the inauguration there were raids on California medical marijuana dispensaries…do you expect these to continue?”, noting that the President had promised to end the raids in the campaign. Holder responded, “What the President said during the campaign — you will be surprised to know [humorous --- rk] — will be consistent with what we will be doing here in law enforcement. He was my boss in the campaign. He is formally and technically and by law my boss now. What he sai... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2233071 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 23:58:54 +0100 2233071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2233072&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1541 [february 13, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns. i am a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor, a medical cannabis patient & advocate, a poet & journalist. i am here this morning with three specific suggestions to move along the medical cannabis ordinance process. but first i want to take us on a quick metaphoric foray into pop culture i don’t know if you’re aware of this, but marvel comics put out a special inauguration day edition of the amazing spider-man with mr. obama on the cover in it, a shapeshifting supervillain named chamelion disguises himself as the real obama & hopes to be sworn in as president by mistake. even the comic book obama... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2233072 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 07:08:06 +0100 2233072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2233073&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1537 [february 10, 2009] good morning, president garcetti, distinguished council members. i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns, long-term AIDS survivor & activist, medical cannabis patient & advocate. poet & journalist. i am here this morning to urge you to establish a permanent medical cannabis community advisory board as a midwife of sorts, to bring our comunity into being it is a subtle, complicated process that requires oversight with a sensitivity to issues beyond zoning. i have a quick culture shock picture for you medical cannabis use today does not necessarily employ the time-honored joint-rolling methodology of my long-gone undergrad days (anyways, nowadays people roll joints with filters) today, i follow recommended harm reduction... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2233073 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 06:19:55 +0100 2233073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2210727&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1527 [february 3, 2009] good morning (& happy birthday) president garcetti, distinguished council members. i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns. i am an AIDS activist & long-term survivor, a medical cannabis advocate & patient, a poet & a journalist. i taught journalism at loyola marymount university for many years i am here this morning to comment on — both the content & quality, actually — of the half-baked, hostile, disrespectful & arrogant poison pill the city attorney’s office is trying to pass off as a fair medical cannabis ordinance. it looks like it was done between two & four in the morning the night before it reminds me of the work of students who would show up to the first day of class, vanish, and t... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2210727 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 04:32:27 +0100 2210727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200654&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1523 [january 30, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. i have given the clerk copies of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns, poet advocate i am a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor. i am a member of SCHAC, the southern california HIV advocacy coalition. i am an APLA client. i am a member of being alive los angeles, i am poet secretary of PAN, the patient advocacy network, a public benefit educational organization for medical cannabis. i have been a participant & presenter at life group LA & Shanti seminars for the last 15-20 years. i publish http://aids-write.org on the internet. i am a one-person army of volunteers i am here today to call on the city council of los angeles to join with the federal government in drafting &a... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200654 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:20:50 +0100 2200654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200655&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1513 chers— west side of the street, between santa monica & fountain, on the way to the grocery store. namaste —rk (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200655 Wed, 18 Feb 2009 21:12:47 +0100 2200655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2190704&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1509 [january 27, 2009] richard kearns. poet activist. it is my sad duty this morning to inform you of the passing of AIDS activist martin delaney, founder and longtime director of the HIV advocacy/education organization project inform. he died peacefully friday surrounded by friends and family in san francisco. he wrote a thing last march called the delaney declaration. i have included his entire text with a copy of my prepared remarks to the clerk, but wanted to read this small excerpt to you. The entire human population benefited from the way AIDS first struck the gay community. Many people wanted to blame the spread of AIDS on gay people, but the facts are exactly the opposite. The epidemic would have been dramatically worse if it had struck any other group than gay people. . . . when AIDS... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2190704 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 20:07:37 +0100 2190704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2190705&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1507 The entire human population benefited from the way AIDS first struck the gay community. Many people wanted to blame the spread of AIDS on gay people, but the facts are exactly the opposite. The epidemic would have been dramatically worse if it had struck any other group than gay people. —martin delaney Martin Delaney - The accomplishments of people living with HIV/AIDS by Mark Hubbard January 26, 2009 Last Monday, the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases awarded a Director’s Special Recognition Award to Martin for his many contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS By now, many of you know that Martin Delaney (of Project Inform) died peacefully Friday morning surrounded by friends and family in San Francisco. At last year’s Positive Living conference in Fort... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2190705 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 19:12:08 +0100 2190705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2167742&cid=t_125664_140_f&fid=35448&url=http%3A%2F%2Fseemedlikeagoodideathetime.com%2F2009%2F02%2F08%2Fdefective%2F yes, this IS a mental health post -it concerns your rights & privacy. Read on… You’ll never guess who is sponsoring  this. If you answered: That race baiting congressman from the corrupt city of Chicago, Black Panther and Army deserter, Bobby Rush. You were correct. Click the link at the top and if you are pressed for time, check out these sections [...] (Source: bipolar chicks blogging) bipolar chicks blogging blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2167742 Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:00:45 +0100 2167742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115899&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1500 [friday, january 15, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members. i have submitted my prepared remarks to the clerk. my name is richard kearns. i am a medical cannabis patient & advocate, & a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor i live in an assisted care institution. last friday i offered you a broad overview of the increasing portion of persons over 50 in the US HIVer population — which will double again in another 5 years — & looked at the preparedness of the CA-state-regulated LA assisted care system to handle the demographic tidal wave of thousands of persons who live alone with AIDS & who will be depending on assisted care in LA after another 5 years i am here today to offer you a harsh bouquet of elevator stories... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115899 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 22:57:47 +0100 2115899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115900&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1495 [tuesday, jan 13, 2009] good morning (& congratulations!) president garcetti, distinguished council membersi have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns. i am a medical cannabis patient & advocate & a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor — a PWA — a person with AIDS in the middle of the night, i’m one of those “light a candle rather than curse the darkness” poets. it gets me in trouble, but then, poetry is trouble. so, who needs rick warren? we are perfectly capable of invoking the presence of spirit for ourselves. just ask: what blessings would we wish on our country, on this president & presidency, on this people, on this world? here are mine: invocation of a person with aids & medical pot patient do no... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115900 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 22:06:42 +0100 2115900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115901&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1490 [friday, jan 9, 2009] good morning (& congratulations!) president garcetti, distinguished council membersi have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns. i am a medical cannabis patient & advocate & a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor — a PWA — a person with AIDS when shirley shaved my head last week she tipped it to the side & said about ted he doesn’t look like he’s dying what do you look like when you’re dying? how must we be as we die? how long does it take? what should i wear? what unfaint & tattered gray-lace death-traces lurk about me so fearsome you must write them off as dust-mote-like fleeing the sunbeams of your gaze? look at me. i am dying. it is not so terrible look on me & recall yo... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115901 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 21:36:01 +0100 2115901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115902&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1483 [tuesday, jan 6, 2009] good morning president garcetti, distinguished council members i have given the clerk a copy of my prepared remarks. my name is richard kearns. i am a medical cannabis patient & advocate & a 57-year-old gay AIDS activist & long-term survivor — a PWA — a person with AIDS i want to give you a “heads up” this morning about a surprise issue coming to bear the LA AIDS community: AIDS & aging & the assisted care system • three-and-a-half years ago when i moved into the assisted care facility where i live today, as a person with AIDS over 50, i represented 10% of the total national HIVer population. • today i represent 25-33% of that national figure. • in 5 years, i will represent 60% of the national population. this demographic su... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115902 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 21:16:24 +0100 2115902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2115903&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1478 Julie Cross: Governor’s Mid-Year Reduction Proposal 2008/09 Impact on Californians living with HIV/AIDS Talking Points Medi-Cal: o Proposed Reduction: Reinstate Medi-Cal Share-of-Cost (SOC) for aged, blind and disabled Medi-Cal beneficiaries who fall into a specific income category. Potential Impact on Californians living with HIV/AIDS: In 2001, Medi-Cal introduced a new eligibility category commonly referred to as the “Aged and Disabled Federal Poverty Level Program (A&DFPL)”. The A&DFPL Program provides Medi-Cal eligible aged and disabled individuals the ability to maintain a higher amount of monthly income before triggering the SOC. The current proposal appears to eliminate the A&DFPL Program and will move current participants back into the traditional Medically Needy... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2115903 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 20:08:28 +0100 2115903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2107794&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1473 chers— so. here i am, hovering over a mess of wires and components, and somewhere in there, soapbubblelike, is my internet contact. every time it goes down it takes about an hour to reboot. i hate having to be patient. started a new HAART cocktail last month with isentress, a new class of anti-AIDS drugs. my body responded with heavy-duty diarrhea (have been wearing diapers & needed them) and headaches — actually, it felt like one big headache of migrainish proportions that started and never really went away, it just got worse and less worse. my doc (dale) said go off your meds for a week (oh boy oh boy, a treatment interruption! all the other stuff will clear up to, the rashes, the sores, the gas, the burping, the flagging appetite, & i hope the fatigue). i did & t... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2107794 Fri, 16 Jan 2009 08:12:54 +0100 2107794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2107795&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1471 PRESIDENT-ELECT BARACK OBAMA’S INAUGURAL CELEBRATION, A WEST COAST “CELEBRATION OF CHANGE.” Los Angeles, CA, January 6, 2009 The Union of Medical Marijuana Patients, Arts District Healing Center and Freedom Gallery commemorates the inaugural celebration of President-Elect Barack Obama with a special press conference and fundraising event to promote politicians supporting medical marijuana patients and to promote the Union of Medical Marijuana Patients and California’s First Hemp Festival. Come out and learn what’s happening in the medical marijuana community and which politicians and journalists speak out on behalf of medical marijuana patients. Date: January 20, 2009 Time: 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. Location: Freedom Gallery - 618 E. 1st Street, Los Angeles CA 90012 Honored Gue... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2107795 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 21:13:10 +0100 2107795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2107796&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1469 Gay Man is Cover Artist for Obama’s Spider-Man Debut President-elect Barack Obama is to be featured in five pages of a special inauguration issue of Marvel Comics’ Amazing Spider-Man, USA Today reports: “The White House transition team did not respond to a question about the extent of Obama’s comic-book geekiness, but Obama did mention Spider-Man during the campaign, primarily at children-oriented events. And during an Entertainment Weekly pop culture survey, Obama said Batman and Spider-Man were his top superheroes because of their ‘inner turmoil.’” Towleroad hears that the cover art was done by gay artist and NYC resident Phil Jimenez. (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2107796 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 19:11:42 +0100 2107796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2107797&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1467 Obama-Spidey #583 Update Marvel Comics’ Amazing Spider-Man #583 will has President-Elect Obama joining forces with the Wallcrawler in the issue’s Spidey Meets the President bonus story. To meet expected demand for this momentous issue, Marvel has now announced it’s heading back to press to offer the Amazing Spider-Man #583 Obama Second Printing Variant, featuring a re-colored version of the original Obama variant cover drawn by Phil Jimenez. The 2nd Printing will be on sale NEXT WEEK, January 21 for $3.99 The previously mentioned Spidey Meets the President story is written by Zeb Wells and drawn by Todd Nauck & Frank D’Armata and takes place in Washington, D.C. on Inauguration Day, as one of Spider-Man’s oldest foes attempts to thwart the swearing in ceremony of the 44th Pr... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2107797 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:56:05 +0100 2107797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074374&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1462 make & wear a white knot on inauguration day On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama will be sworn in as our next President. Rick Warren has been asked to provide the invocation. Rick Warren helped pass Proposition 8 which banned gay marriage in California and took away people’s rights to marry the one that they love. To show your support for marriage equality, wear a white knot, a powerful symbol of marriage equality, at the Inauguration Ceremony, wherever you are in our country. How to make a White Knot 1. Use grosgrain (or satin) ribbon available at most fabric and craft stores. A width of 5/8 inch works best. 2. Cut ribbon to 6 inch pieces. (If you want smaller Knots and have nimble fingers, 4 inches will work.) 3. Tie a double knot in the center of the ribbon. Pulling the fir... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074374 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:22:46 +0100 2074374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074375&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1458 Christine Maggiore, vocal skeptic of AIDS research, dies at 52 Woman and her husband sued Los Angeles County for finding that daughter died of AIDS-related pneumonia. By Anna Gorman and Alexandra Zavis December 30, 2008 Until the end, Christine Maggiore remained defiant. On national television and in a blistering book, she denounced research showing that HIV causes AIDS. She refused to take medications to treat her own virus. She gave birth to two children and breast-fed them, denying any risk to their health. And when her 3-year-old child, Eliza Jane, died of what the coroner determined to be AIDS-related pneumonia, she protested the findings and sued the county. On Saturday, Maggiore died at her Van Nuys home, leaving a husband, a son and many unanswered questions. She was 52. Accordin... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074375 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:30:51 +0100 2074375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074376&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1456 from the recent amfar study Few Americans believe that HIV+ women should have children [percentage below indicates number of respondents in support of women with specific chronic medical conditions who want to bear and raise children ---rk]. • HIV+ 14% • Cancer 59% • Depression 47% • Multiple sclerosis 37% • Hepatitis C 20% • Down’s syndrome 19% • Schizophrenia 17% If an HIV+ woman made the decision to have a child, one-third of Americans would not support her decision at all • support her decision fully 23% • support her decision somewhat 46% • support her decision not at all 32% from “christine maggiore” entry at wikipedia Christine Maggiore (1957 – December 27, 2008) was an HIV-positive activist who denied that HIV causes AIDS.[1][2] She was the found... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074376 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:07:04 +0100 2074376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074377&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1451 Hunger in America by richard mitchell the underground grammarian september, 1984 Egypt riseth up like a flood, and his waters are moved like the rivers and he saith, I will go up, and will cover the earth; I will destroy the city and the inhabitants thereof. § Come up, ye heroes; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; the Ethiopians and the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle and bend the bow. § For this is the day of the Lord God of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries; and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood… § Go up into Gilead, and take balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt; in vain shalt thou use many medicines, for thou shalt not be cured. § The nations ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074377 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 06:26:42 +0100 2074377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074378&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1445 chers— i hope this thing fits itself on the page. click on the image below, which is linked to the original in all its glory. namasté —rk http://www.ilga.org/map/LGBTI_rights.jpg (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074378 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:15:01 +0100 2074378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074379&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1443 chers— eartha kitt died christmas day at the age of 81. this is albert rodriguez’ article about her published in the windy city times two years ago. namasté —rk Getting Catty with Eartha Kitt by Albert Rodriguez 2005-04-06 At the age of 78, Eartha Kitt isn’t interested in joining a women’s bridge club or staying home and knitting throw blankets. The legendary entertainer, who boasts Emmy, Grammy and Tony award nominations on her lengthy resume, is as active in her career today as when she purred to worldwide fame playing “Catwoman” in the Batman TV series. In fact, when I rang the land line at her Western Connecticut home recently, she had just returned from the recording studio and was a week away from getting on a plane and heading to the West Coast for a six-nigh... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074379 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 17:42:30 +0100 2074379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074380&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1441 USA Refuses to Sign UN Gay Rights Declaration The United States refused to sign the United Nations Gay Rights Declaration presented in December 2008. Here’s what you can do to change this: [EQUAL] ENGAGE Have conversations with your neighbors, friends and family about LGBT rights. QUESTION Ask President-elect Barack Obama to support HRC’s Blueprint for Positive Change. UNITE Powerful change results when more than 10,000,000 LGBT people come together. ACT Go to the National DOMA Protests on January 10 and stand among over a million people who want change. LABOR We will not rest until all LGBT people are given full and equal civil rights. For more information, go to Join the Impact at http://www.jointheimpact.com Video: Sean Chapin (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074380 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 17:03:59 +0100 2074380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074381&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1437 U.S. Declines to Join Resolution for Global Gay Decriminalization by Kilian Melloy EDGE Contributor Friday Dec 26, 2008 Anti-gay conservatives have delineated their opposition to the international conversation on the human rights of gays and lesbians by framing the issue as one of homosexuality in and of itself being a right. A CNS article posted on Dec. 24 referred to homosexuality as being sought as a “human right” of its own accord (rather than addressing the human rights of homosexual people) and slammed France as being the nation that has “fired the opening salvo” in what the religious-right site termed a “battle at the United Nations” over the question of an international accord regarding the treatment of gays globally. As previously reported, the ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074381 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:51:42 +0100 2074381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2074382&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1434 NGO fights 6 evils of HIV-Aids BY THERESA KASAWALA [malawi] 10:47:27 - 26 December 2008 A grouping of religious leaders in the country has taken a milestone in the fight against HIV/Aids by fighting six evils of the epidemic. The evils are • stigma, • silence, • shame, • discrimination, • denial, • inaction and • mis-action. [my bulleting –- i count 7, but maybe the last two are supposed to be a single item (in-action and mis-action). curious list ---rk] National Coordinator of Malawi Network of Religious Leaders Living or Personally Affected by HIV/Aids (Manerella) Mc Donald Sembereka said in an interview that there was also need to target people living or affected by the epidemic. He noted that religious leaders who are living or affected by HIV/Aids have a role to play ... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2074382 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:23:48 +0100 2074382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2067694&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1413 Christophobia? Rick Warren controversy ‘getting weirder’ chers— this should work. take a look. nearly 9 mins. namasté —rk Rachel Maddow believes that the uproar over Barack Obama’s selection of Pastor Rick Warren to deliver his inaugural invocation might have been subsiding by now, except that Warren himself — very much like Reverend Jeremiah Wright last spring — has stirred things up again with a video address in which he accuses his critics of being “Christophobes.” “Not only it is getting worse,” commented Maddow, “it’s getting weirder.” In the 22 minute message to his congregation placed on his website last Sunday, Warren first denied ever “equating gay partnership with incest and pedophilia&#8... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2067694 Fri, 26 Dec 2008 21:39:10 +0100 2067694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2067695&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1410 Eartha Kitt with Friends Santa Baby A video of Eartha Kitt doing Santa baby with three friends helping her out :o)) Eartha Kitt, Sultry ‘Santa Baby’ Singer, Dies Staff and Wire Reports December 26, 2008 Eartha Kitt, a sultry singer, dancer and actress who rose from South Carolina cotton fields to become an international symbol of elegance and sensuality, has died, a family spokesman said. She was 81. Andrew Freedman said Kitt, who was recently treated at New York’s Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, died in Connecticut of colon cancer. She lived in Weston in recent years but it was uncertain if that was where she died. Kitt, a self-proclaimed “sex kitten” famous for her catlike purr, was one of America’s most versatile performers, winning two Emmys and n... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2067695 Fri, 26 Dec 2008 10:36:05 +0100 2067695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065394&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1406 chers— the embedding code doesn’t work at aids-write. please go to msnbc: The wrong choice? Dec. 23: Pastor Rick Warren released a 22 minute web video addressing the uproar over his invitation to President-elect Obama’s inauguration. Should Obama rescind his invitation? Rachel Maddow is joined by The Nation’s Katha Pollitt. or towleroad: “He has snatched the possibility of open-mindedness from the jaws of possibility.” Rachel Maddow takes apart the latest Rick Warren developments namasté —rk (Source: aids-write.org) aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065394 Fri, 26 Dec 2008 09:17:17 +0100 2065394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065395&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1395 Marijuana Christmas & A Hashy New Year! Thanks to everyone who joined us downtown on Christmas Eve to deliver coal to the DEA. It was a joyous event with a lot of positive energy and good cheer. We said a prayer for our brothers and sisters suffering in prison for providing our medicine. As you will see from the photos attached, security police were not *too* concerned with us. We are ON federal property. We got permission - do not try this with out it. (We spread our good cheer to them too:) You and yours have a blessed and beautiful holiday. To making next year OUR year! Be well and be safe - Sincerely, Degé Coutee Education & Advocacy Director Patient Advocacy Network http://cannabissaveslives.com EVENT: Protest/Rally to bring public attention to the almost 10 raids by the D... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065395 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 07:35:50 +0100 2065395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065396&cid=t_125664_135_f&fid=35246&url=http%3A%2F%2Faids-write.org%2F%3Fp%3D1393 Shepard Fairey’s Obama Time Magazine Cover December 19th, 2008 Starting today, you’ll be able to pick up Shepard Fairey’s newest Barack Obama illustration on almost every newsstand in the world. He has created the image for the cover of Time Magazine’s “Person of the Year” issue. Here is what he had to say about his involvement with the project: “Tomorrow my illustration for Time Magazine’s “Person of The Year” hits the newsstands. While I’m very honored to be validated by a periodical that is nothing short of an American institution, the moment is bittersweet because I’m very disappointed by Obama’s appointment of Rick Warren to deliver his invocation during Obama’s inaugural address. Rick Warren is against gay marriage and reproductive rights, and he does not... aids-write.org blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065396 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 06:18:52 +0100 2065396