Ron and I had a frightening experience the other night. We walked over to our community Jacuzzi around 8:30, as we do several times each week. There are usually four or five other people in the Jacuzzi, and it's a nice chance to talk and relax. On this evening, there was one older man in the hot tub, hanging on to the step railing and lying on his back. He was alone. I thought he was just relaxing, but it soon became apparent that he was struggling. He was paralyzed on one side of his body, had moved down to the bottom step of the Jacuzzi and could not get back. Had we not arrived, this could have turned into a tragedy. Although there were a dozen or so people in the pool, they could not see or hear this gentleman. With the help of two adults, we were eventually able to get him out of the Jacuzzi and seated on his walker. He was exhausted, and had he been alone he likely would have drowned. I keep thinking of what I was told as child. "Never swim alone. You can drown in a foot of water." I hope this man remembers that in the future.
It is always safer to do things in numbers, especially as you get older. NEVER swim or Jacuzzi alone. Never hike alone. We hear of tragedies every month. It's advisable to bike with a partner, and even walk in pairs. I always carry ID and a phone with me when I walk, even in Ocean Hills. While hiking, boogie boarding or swimming, I am always with a group. I still keep my phone handy. You never know when you might need it.
It's difficult to admit to yourself that you can't do the same things you did 20 years ago, that you may actually need help. I know many younger men and women that job and hike and bike alone, but this is not safe for seniors. Bring a friend with you and stay safe.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Where Have All The Buffalo Gone?
I was at an art lecture one Friday morning, and one painting in particular created much conversation after the lecture. It was a painting depicting the slaughter of the Plains Indians. The painting showed a warrior on horseback killing a buffalo with a spear, with huge herds of buffalo in the background, and buffalo bones in the foreground. The question that arose is this. "Who killed all the buffalo, the Indians or the white man?" Here's what I found.
There are no accurate figures for the number of buffalo when the Native Americans first settled in the plains, but it is believed to be between 30-60 million. Because of their size, buffalo had no natural predators to keep down their numbers. By the 1890's there were only about 500 buffalo left in the wild. Native Americans killed buffalo for food and clothing. They used every part of the animal. The meat could be dried or preserved for future use. The horns were used as decoration on ceremonial clothes, the hides could be used as blankets or as part of a teepee. The killing was done by warriors, but they only killed what they could use. One explorer prophetically said, "When the buffalo are extinct, the Native People too must dwindle away. Native People knew that their survival depended on the buffalo and if they took advantage of this creature, they would pay for that greed themselves.
White settlers did not share this view. They saw the plains as perfect for cattle, and wanted to move Native People off of the Plains and destroy the buffalo hers. They had many political friends in Washington and a dual policy developed: move the Native People into reservations away from valuable land and destroy the herds of buffalo. Hunters were encouraged to hunt on the Plains to destroy the buffalo. Animals were skinned and the carcasses were left to rot. Only the tongue, a delicacy, was saved. A slaughter similar to that of the buffalo has no parallel in history.
So, yes, Native Americans did kill buffalo, but depended on them for survival, and with crude weapons for killing them, could not possibly have killed millions. The white man, with high powered rifles, could easily kill these powerful animals. Had conservationists not stepped in and started breeding programs, the buffalo might well be extinct. Today, they are making a comeback. Consumers have discovered bison meat and many bison are being raised for this purpose.
The white man moved Native Americans to reservations, killed millions of buffalo and used the Plains land for cattle. Thanks to conservation organizations we still have buffalo. Their numbers are growing and they are thriving.
There are no accurate figures for the number of buffalo when the Native Americans first settled in the plains, but it is believed to be between 30-60 million. Because of their size, buffalo had no natural predators to keep down their numbers. By the 1890's there were only about 500 buffalo left in the wild. Native Americans killed buffalo for food and clothing. They used every part of the animal. The meat could be dried or preserved for future use. The horns were used as decoration on ceremonial clothes, the hides could be used as blankets or as part of a teepee. The killing was done by warriors, but they only killed what they could use. One explorer prophetically said, "When the buffalo are extinct, the Native People too must dwindle away. Native People knew that their survival depended on the buffalo and if they took advantage of this creature, they would pay for that greed themselves.
White settlers did not share this view. They saw the plains as perfect for cattle, and wanted to move Native People off of the Plains and destroy the buffalo hers. They had many political friends in Washington and a dual policy developed: move the Native People into reservations away from valuable land and destroy the herds of buffalo. Hunters were encouraged to hunt on the Plains to destroy the buffalo. Animals were skinned and the carcasses were left to rot. Only the tongue, a delicacy, was saved. A slaughter similar to that of the buffalo has no parallel in history.
So, yes, Native Americans did kill buffalo, but depended on them for survival, and with crude weapons for killing them, could not possibly have killed millions. The white man, with high powered rifles, could easily kill these powerful animals. Had conservationists not stepped in and started breeding programs, the buffalo might well be extinct. Today, they are making a comeback. Consumers have discovered bison meat and many bison are being raised for this purpose.
The white man moved Native Americans to reservations, killed millions of buffalo and used the Plains land for cattle. Thanks to conservation organizations we still have buffalo. Their numbers are growing and they are thriving.
Friday, July 24, 2015
Boulder Restaurant: Tangerine Is Great For Breakfast or Lunch
During my last visit to Boulder, Deborah, Elsa and I went to Tangerine for lunch, before picking up Lennon at school. It's in a little strip mall in Boulder, and is a great choice for breakfast or lunch. Chef/Proprietor Alec Schuler brings his nutrition-oriented culinary training to this restaurant, and his other restaurant, Arugula Bar e Ristorante. Alec was born and raised in New York by immigrant European parents. His world travels have strongly influenced his outlook on food. As an avid biker, skier and mountain lover, he is always mindful of the importance of wholesome and healthy diet. His lifestyle is reflected in his diverse menu.
Everything at Tangerine is fresh, and everything is big. I ordered the albacore tuna sandwich. Griddle fried sourdough with fresh albacore, leeks, kalamata olives and fresh tomatoes, and a side of lemon dressed greens or hand cut French fries. Delicious sandwich. Deborah ordered the shrimp and spinach salad. Five seared shrimp over spinch with avocado, romesco sauce, tomatoes, shave fennel and toasted fennel seed vinaigrette. That's her favorite. Elsa ordered a blueberry pancake and ate the whole thing. Other lunch items include a caponata salad, crab cake salad, albacore nicoise salad, steak salad, and more. Sandwiches include a crab cake sandwich, Mediterranean melt veggie, grilled chicken, Tangerine reuben, which includes carmelized onions and peppers in addition to the regular ingredients of a reuben, a delicious looking burger, and a blt. Everything is made from scratch, fresh and so delicious.
A few customers were eating breakfast, and they looked amazing. Bacon and eggs with fried potatoes, waffles and pancakes, hash and eggs benedict were just some of the many breakfast items I saw and will try next time I'm there. Next time I visit, we will try Tangerine for breakfast.
This is just another of the many wonderful breakfast and lunch spots to try if you visit Boulder. I think you will enjoy it. I sure did.
Everything at Tangerine is fresh, and everything is big. I ordered the albacore tuna sandwich. Griddle fried sourdough with fresh albacore, leeks, kalamata olives and fresh tomatoes, and a side of lemon dressed greens or hand cut French fries. Delicious sandwich. Deborah ordered the shrimp and spinach salad. Five seared shrimp over spinch with avocado, romesco sauce, tomatoes, shave fennel and toasted fennel seed vinaigrette. That's her favorite. Elsa ordered a blueberry pancake and ate the whole thing. Other lunch items include a caponata salad, crab cake salad, albacore nicoise salad, steak salad, and more. Sandwiches include a crab cake sandwich, Mediterranean melt veggie, grilled chicken, Tangerine reuben, which includes carmelized onions and peppers in addition to the regular ingredients of a reuben, a delicious looking burger, and a blt. Everything is made from scratch, fresh and so delicious.
A few customers were eating breakfast, and they looked amazing. Bacon and eggs with fried potatoes, waffles and pancakes, hash and eggs benedict were just some of the many breakfast items I saw and will try next time I'm there. Next time I visit, we will try Tangerine for breakfast.
This is just another of the many wonderful breakfast and lunch spots to try if you visit Boulder. I think you will enjoy it. I sure did.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Has The TSA Made Airline Travel Safer?
According to the results of the Department of Homeland Security's internal investigation, the answer is NO! In fact, the failure rate in detecting explosives and other dangerous materials, is higher than it was in 2007. According to the report by ABC, and confirmed by government officials and reported to CNN, the failure rate on their internal investigation was 95%. "Red teams" with the Department of Homeland Security were able to get banned items through the screening process in 67 out of 70 tests it conducted across the nation. Melvin Carraway, acting administrator for the TSA would be reassigned. What does one have to do to get fired?
The TSA issued a statement following Carraway's reassignment. "Today, all air travelers are subject to a robust security system that employs multiple layers of protection, both seen and unseen, including: intelligence gathering and analysis, cross-checking passenger manifests against watchlists, screening at checkpoints, random canine team screening at airports, reinforced cockpit door, Federal Air Marshals, armed pilots and a vigilant public. In combination, these layers provide enhanced security creating a much stronger and protected transportation system for the traveling public." If this is so, why did their internal investigation fail so miserably? An enormous amount of government resources, including $540 million on baggage screening equipment and millions more on training, and what do we have to show for it? The most effective solution is not always the most expensive one. Perhaps bomb sniffing dogs, which are far less expensive than fancy equipment, might help.
TSA screeners never seem to miss an emory board or a 4oz bottle of shampoo. They seem to be diligent in making sure that every 85 year old disabled woman in a wheel chair is examined from head to toe, yet they miss explosives and knives in 95% of the cases in their own investigation. We're paying for all this and we need to demand better safeguards. If the TSA was doing a good job, we would have heard about it. They're not doing a good job, and they are not keeping us safer. With such a dramatic failure by the TSA I'm sure change will come. The question is when, and how much will really change?
The TSA issued a statement following Carraway's reassignment. "Today, all air travelers are subject to a robust security system that employs multiple layers of protection, both seen and unseen, including: intelligence gathering and analysis, cross-checking passenger manifests against watchlists, screening at checkpoints, random canine team screening at airports, reinforced cockpit door, Federal Air Marshals, armed pilots and a vigilant public. In combination, these layers provide enhanced security creating a much stronger and protected transportation system for the traveling public." If this is so, why did their internal investigation fail so miserably? An enormous amount of government resources, including $540 million on baggage screening equipment and millions more on training, and what do we have to show for it? The most effective solution is not always the most expensive one. Perhaps bomb sniffing dogs, which are far less expensive than fancy equipment, might help.
TSA screeners never seem to miss an emory board or a 4oz bottle of shampoo. They seem to be diligent in making sure that every 85 year old disabled woman in a wheel chair is examined from head to toe, yet they miss explosives and knives in 95% of the cases in their own investigation. We're paying for all this and we need to demand better safeguards. If the TSA was doing a good job, we would have heard about it. They're not doing a good job, and they are not keeping us safer. With such a dramatic failure by the TSA I'm sure change will come. The question is when, and how much will really change?
Friday, July 17, 2015
Africa: An Emerging Continent
Our Friday morning discussion group recently spent an hour discussing the continent of Africa, its problems and its future. Hardly enough time to even scratch the surface, but several things seem clear. Africa is a continent made up of 54 countries, each with different types of government, different resources, and different needs. You cannot lump all of Africa together, as each country is unique. There are many common problems on the continent, including Aids, Ebola, terrorism, unemployment, lack of clean drinking water, poverty, political corruption and lack of education, just to name a few. (does this sound like us?) Many African leaders jumped for joy when Barak Obama was elected, thinking that because he had a Kenyan father, he would be handing out aid right and left. That has not been the case, and as someone in our discussion said, "Obama had a few other things on his plate," like a recession, unemployment, two wars, and Homeland Security, just to name a few.
Recently there has been more talk of how to help Africa, as China has become a big player on the international scene, and is investing a lot of money in Africa, and is actually their biggest trade partner. It remains to be seen what the U.S. will do in terms of trade agreements. There is a lot of controversy on this topic.
Regina brought up the fact that Obama has actually done a great deal for Africa by founding the Young African Leaders Initiative. Obama launched this program in 2010 to support an emerging generation of African leaders as they work to drive economic growth, enhance democratic governance, and strengthen the civil society structures that will help the continent grow and prosper. This fellowship connects young African leaders to leadership training opportunities at some of America's top universities. Obama also initiated new public-private partnerships to create a continuum
of programs, platforms and support for young African leaders. With 60% of Africa's population under 35, the future success of African nations will depend on the leadership, skills, and ingenuity of this emerging generation of leaders. The 500 exceptional young people involved in YALI will go back to their countries and hopefully, make a difference.
Investing in people, is the best way to make a difference. Training young Africans will pay great dividends in the future. Instead of just giving handouts in the form of food and medicine, we are training young Africans to build their own drinking wells and grow their own crops. Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll never go hungry.
Recently there has been more talk of how to help Africa, as China has become a big player on the international scene, and is investing a lot of money in Africa, and is actually their biggest trade partner. It remains to be seen what the U.S. will do in terms of trade agreements. There is a lot of controversy on this topic.
Regina brought up the fact that Obama has actually done a great deal for Africa by founding the Young African Leaders Initiative. Obama launched this program in 2010 to support an emerging generation of African leaders as they work to drive economic growth, enhance democratic governance, and strengthen the civil society structures that will help the continent grow and prosper. This fellowship connects young African leaders to leadership training opportunities at some of America's top universities. Obama also initiated new public-private partnerships to create a continuum
of programs, platforms and support for young African leaders. With 60% of Africa's population under 35, the future success of African nations will depend on the leadership, skills, and ingenuity of this emerging generation of leaders. The 500 exceptional young people involved in YALI will go back to their countries and hopefully, make a difference.
Investing in people, is the best way to make a difference. Training young Africans will pay great dividends in the future. Instead of just giving handouts in the form of food and medicine, we are training young Africans to build their own drinking wells and grow their own crops. Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll never go hungry.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Moving To A New Community Is Hard
It's been almost 4 months since I moved to Ocean Hills. Things are getting easier, more familiar, and I am more comfortable. I know I'm just 8 miles from my last home, but everything is different. A different market, a different Starbucks, and a different Target. These are places I frequent regularly, and I need to get to know the new baristas and checkers. This all takes time. Another place I used to go everyday was the Encinitas Y. That is no longer possible. It is more than 12 miles from my house, and 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Right now I'm struggling to get there twice a week, so my guess is, that within the next two months, I will drop my Y membership. I have a free 24 Hour Fitness membership and a free Pure Fitness (now Crunch) membership, and lots of activities at Ocean Hills to keep me fit. I will dearly miss the many friends I have made at the Y over the past 10 years.
Everyone is very friendly at Ocean Hills. Even some people that you think my be grouches are welcoming. I'm not sure why this is, but it's very different than any community I have lived in before. My neighbor Bill brings the trash cans in for everyone on our cul-de-sac as soon as the trash is picked up. He also buys lottery tickets for several families on the block, myself included. I'm a $16 winner so far. Max, our local handyman, will help with any small project we need. Everyone tries to help each other. It's a great feeling.
I found when I first arrived, that although everyone was friendly, I was having trouble making friends, if you know what I mean. I solved this problem by getting involved in various activities, and found a common bond between myself and the people in the groups that I had interest in. First, I started going to the dog park, a two minute walk from my house, every afternoon around 4:30. There's a group of regulars, anywhere from 4-15 people with dogs, who meet and mingle everyday. I know all of these people well now, and have made a few friends. I started pickleball lessons about a month ago, and have met some wonderful people through that group. I even played in my first tournament last week, a novice tournament, with many of the nubies to pickleball. The hiking group has also given me a chance to meet and connect with some new friends. We often walk in two's, and through the course of a hike you get to know a lot about the person you've been talking to. I just started golf, and I can see that I will meet an altogether different group through my Tuesday golf game. Bridge and Friday morning discussion are the other activites Ron and I have tried, both of which have introduced us to many new friends.
Living right across from the clubhouse and pool area is fantastic. Almost every night we walk about 30 feet to the Jacuzzi. It's almost like having a Jacuzzi in your own backyard. This is another opportunity to meet and talk to just a few people. It's very relaxed, and we've met some wonderful people while sitting in a hot tub.
It's hard to come into a new community and try to fit in. Groups are formed, and some groups are more welcoming than others. Fortunately, most of the people here are welcoming and want to meet new people. Ron is planning to go to the Yiddish club next month. You don't have to speak Yiddish, but I'm sure he will meet many Jews there. The best way to fit into a new community is to get involved. Try as many activities as you can, and see where you fit. That's the best way to find your niche. I plan for this to be my last home, so getting involved is important. With over 1600
homes in Ocean Hills, there are bound to be people of all kinds. I will just keep trying. Friendships don't develop overnight, but I think I'm well on my way to finding some people I really like.
Everyone is very friendly at Ocean Hills. Even some people that you think my be grouches are welcoming. I'm not sure why this is, but it's very different than any community I have lived in before. My neighbor Bill brings the trash cans in for everyone on our cul-de-sac as soon as the trash is picked up. He also buys lottery tickets for several families on the block, myself included. I'm a $16 winner so far. Max, our local handyman, will help with any small project we need. Everyone tries to help each other. It's a great feeling.
I found when I first arrived, that although everyone was friendly, I was having trouble making friends, if you know what I mean. I solved this problem by getting involved in various activities, and found a common bond between myself and the people in the groups that I had interest in. First, I started going to the dog park, a two minute walk from my house, every afternoon around 4:30. There's a group of regulars, anywhere from 4-15 people with dogs, who meet and mingle everyday. I know all of these people well now, and have made a few friends. I started pickleball lessons about a month ago, and have met some wonderful people through that group. I even played in my first tournament last week, a novice tournament, with many of the nubies to pickleball. The hiking group has also given me a chance to meet and connect with some new friends. We often walk in two's, and through the course of a hike you get to know a lot about the person you've been talking to. I just started golf, and I can see that I will meet an altogether different group through my Tuesday golf game. Bridge and Friday morning discussion are the other activites Ron and I have tried, both of which have introduced us to many new friends.
Living right across from the clubhouse and pool area is fantastic. Almost every night we walk about 30 feet to the Jacuzzi. It's almost like having a Jacuzzi in your own backyard. This is another opportunity to meet and talk to just a few people. It's very relaxed, and we've met some wonderful people while sitting in a hot tub.
It's hard to come into a new community and try to fit in. Groups are formed, and some groups are more welcoming than others. Fortunately, most of the people here are welcoming and want to meet new people. Ron is planning to go to the Yiddish club next month. You don't have to speak Yiddish, but I'm sure he will meet many Jews there. The best way to fit into a new community is to get involved. Try as many activities as you can, and see where you fit. That's the best way to find your niche. I plan for this to be my last home, so getting involved is important. With over 1600
homes in Ocean Hills, there are bound to be people of all kinds. I will just keep trying. Friendships don't develop overnight, but I think I'm well on my way to finding some people I really like.
Monday, July 13, 2015
Goat Cheese Appetizer
Memorial Day was cool and rainy, but a late afternoon get together at Laura and Richard's warmed us all up. There were nine people in all. We enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by Laura, fantastic pies from The Village Pie Shop, and interesting conversation. The evening was just delightful. Laura prepared some appetizers for us to enjoy before dinner, one which was so good and so easy that I need to share it with you. You're going to try this one at the next opportunity. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Thanks, Laura.
Goat Cheese and Pistachio Appetizer
Goat cheese, at room temperature
Honey
Unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped
Let goat cheese sit until it is at room temperature. Put it in the serving dish, drizzle with honey. (how much honey you use is up to you). Crush unsalted pistachios or chop. Sprinkle on top of cheese and honey mixture and serve with crackers of your choice. Alternately, take a log of goat cheese, chop pistachios, and roll goat cheese log in the nuts, then drizzle with honey. Enjoy
Goat Cheese and Pistachio Appetizer
Goat cheese, at room temperature
Honey
Unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped
Let goat cheese sit until it is at room temperature. Put it in the serving dish, drizzle with honey. (how much honey you use is up to you). Crush unsalted pistachios or chop. Sprinkle on top of cheese and honey mixture and serve with crackers of your choice. Alternately, take a log of goat cheese, chop pistachios, and roll goat cheese log in the nuts, then drizzle with honey. Enjoy
Friday, July 10, 2015
Be Aware Of The Pink Tax
Women are paying more for similar items than men. If you shop for men and women, you should notice that women pay more for many products and services. There's really no reason for this disparity in pricing other than that retailers can get away with it. Here are just a few of the many ways women pay more than men, in some cases just a few pennies, in other cases as much as double what a man pays.
Plus size clothing for women costs more than regular size clothing for women, yet for men, plus size clothing is the same price as regular size wear. Retailers had argued that plus size clothing takes more fabric, but why then does it only cost more for women? Companies arguing that the cost of designing plus size women's clothes costs more. I don't believe it.
Dry cleaning and laundry costs are also unequal. There was a big fuss about the cost of dry cleaning men and women's suits and blouses several years ago, and the dry cleaning industry has made costs similar for men and women. However, laundry service for women can be as much as double the price of laundering a man's shirt. The dry cleaning industry argues that the pressing machines are designed for men's shirts, and women's blouses must be finished by hand. I say, "Design a pressing machine for women's shirts. After all, we are half of the population."
Products such as deodorant, shampoo, shaving cream and pain relievers are the most prolific offenders. Compare shampoo bottles from the same manufacture for men and women and you will find the same active ingredients in each, yet the price is more for women. The only difference might be the packaging and the scent of the product. This goes for most basic products that we use everyday, and the cost adds up. Sometimes it's just an extra 10cents for the women's product, but often it's an extra dollar or more. The fact of the matter is that women are willing to pay more for essential products, and most of us don't question the cost. The pink tax could be costing us thousands of dollars per year.
Imported products cost women much more than men. There is gender bias in the tariffs on imported goods. The tariff on an imported women's suit is 8.5%, whereas the tariff on an imported men's suit is 0.0%. Imported men's sneakers are charged an 8.5% tariff, while imported women's sneakers pay a 10% tariff.
Are things getting better? Yes, they are. With the implementation of ObamaCare, there is no longer gender bias for the same health care services. This is a big step forward for women. We need retailers to get on board and stop taxing women more than men on equivalent products. A French women's rights group started a petition to eliminate The Pink Tax. It was so successful that The Finance Minister ordered an inquiry into possible price discrimination by French retailers in general. That's a start. So, shop carefully, and take note of this discrimination. Being aware that we are not being equally is a first step in eliminating The Pink Tax.
Plus size clothing for women costs more than regular size clothing for women, yet for men, plus size clothing is the same price as regular size wear. Retailers had argued that plus size clothing takes more fabric, but why then does it only cost more for women? Companies arguing that the cost of designing plus size women's clothes costs more. I don't believe it.
Dry cleaning and laundry costs are also unequal. There was a big fuss about the cost of dry cleaning men and women's suits and blouses several years ago, and the dry cleaning industry has made costs similar for men and women. However, laundry service for women can be as much as double the price of laundering a man's shirt. The dry cleaning industry argues that the pressing machines are designed for men's shirts, and women's blouses must be finished by hand. I say, "Design a pressing machine for women's shirts. After all, we are half of the population."
Products such as deodorant, shampoo, shaving cream and pain relievers are the most prolific offenders. Compare shampoo bottles from the same manufacture for men and women and you will find the same active ingredients in each, yet the price is more for women. The only difference might be the packaging and the scent of the product. This goes for most basic products that we use everyday, and the cost adds up. Sometimes it's just an extra 10cents for the women's product, but often it's an extra dollar or more. The fact of the matter is that women are willing to pay more for essential products, and most of us don't question the cost. The pink tax could be costing us thousands of dollars per year.
Imported products cost women much more than men. There is gender bias in the tariffs on imported goods. The tariff on an imported women's suit is 8.5%, whereas the tariff on an imported men's suit is 0.0%. Imported men's sneakers are charged an 8.5% tariff, while imported women's sneakers pay a 10% tariff.
Are things getting better? Yes, they are. With the implementation of ObamaCare, there is no longer gender bias for the same health care services. This is a big step forward for women. We need retailers to get on board and stop taxing women more than men on equivalent products. A French women's rights group started a petition to eliminate The Pink Tax. It was so successful that The Finance Minister ordered an inquiry into possible price discrimination by French retailers in general. That's a start. So, shop carefully, and take note of this discrimination. Being aware that we are not being equally is a first step in eliminating The Pink Tax.
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
A Five Star Restaurant in Escondido
I haven't had a better meal than I had recently at Bellamy's in Escondido in a very long time. From start to finish, it was superb. The service, menu, food and overall ambience were as good as it gets. I had heard about this restaurant from several friends, but had been going to two other wonderful continental/French restaurants on Grand Avenue, and thought to myself that there couldn't be another great restaurant. I was wrong, in fact I would say this is the best of several wonderful restaurants in Escondido. Old, young and families all enjoy Bellamy's chic yet casual atmosphere. The night we were there I noticed several tables celebrating special occasions. It's a great place to celebrate. Owner Gianina Picken is a graduate of the Le Cordon Bleu in Las Vegas. Chef Patrick Ponsaty makes magic in the kitchen. He brings 30 years of experience and multiple Michelin Stars to his role as Corporate Chef at Bellamy's.
Chef Patrick's menu is best described as an evolution of French cuisine with robust, intense flavors inspired by Europe's Mediterranean coast. The menu changes daily, but here is a sampling of what we had and what you can find on the menu. We started our meal by splitting the porcini mushroom ravioli (with ruby port wine sauce and parmesan). This was one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. The house made ravioli was as light as a feather, filled with a mushroom mixture and topped with a port wine sauce. I could eat the whole portion as a main course. The diver scallops were also delicious. A pumpkin-orange blossom mouse and baby carrots in lemon sauce completed the meal. Our other entrée was wild sea bass with cauliflower, capers, and brown butter. Delicious and so rich. Other choices on the menu include escargot, lobster bisque, short ribs, California bouillabaisse, and Scottish Salmon with sunchokes, saffron risotto and fennel.
I wouldn't want to eat this rich food every night, but once in a while, if you're going to splurge, go to Bellamy's. Next door to the restaurant (same building) is a bar with entertainment. The night we were there we heard a wonderful singer and guitar. It wasn't so loud that you couldn't enjoy your dinner conversation. Escondido may be a bit of a drive for many of you for dinner, but believe me, Bellamy's is worth it.
Chef Patrick's menu is best described as an evolution of French cuisine with robust, intense flavors inspired by Europe's Mediterranean coast. The menu changes daily, but here is a sampling of what we had and what you can find on the menu. We started our meal by splitting the porcini mushroom ravioli (with ruby port wine sauce and parmesan). This was one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. The house made ravioli was as light as a feather, filled with a mushroom mixture and topped with a port wine sauce. I could eat the whole portion as a main course. The diver scallops were also delicious. A pumpkin-orange blossom mouse and baby carrots in lemon sauce completed the meal. Our other entrée was wild sea bass with cauliflower, capers, and brown butter. Delicious and so rich. Other choices on the menu include escargot, lobster bisque, short ribs, California bouillabaisse, and Scottish Salmon with sunchokes, saffron risotto and fennel.
I wouldn't want to eat this rich food every night, but once in a while, if you're going to splurge, go to Bellamy's. Next door to the restaurant (same building) is a bar with entertainment. The night we were there we heard a wonderful singer and guitar. It wasn't so loud that you couldn't enjoy your dinner conversation. Escondido may be a bit of a drive for many of you for dinner, but believe me, Bellamy's is worth it.
Monday, July 6, 2015
It's The 40th Anniversary Of Jaws
It was 40 years ago that the movie Jaws was released. It affected everyone who saw it, many vowing to never go in the ocean again. Here we are with shark attacks reported on almost a weekly basis. In North Carolina, there have been seven attacks in the last three weeks. Last year the same area had four attacks throughout the entire year. So, why are so many shark attacks happening this summer?
Some experts say it's the perfect storm. Warmer weather, higher salinity in the ocean, a bloom of bait fish, fishing near swimmers, global warming. The most likely explanation is the ever increasing amount of time spent in the sea by humans, which increases the opportunities for interaction between man and shark. Finally, there are more people on the planet, more swimmers in the ocean, thus more likelihood of their interaction.
>p>Sharks do not typically attack or eat humans. They are looking for fish, and in the process man might just get in the way. Sharks follow schools of fish bait, which often swim near fishing piers. A tip from science experts is to get out of the water if you see schools of small fish. That could mean a shark is near. Sharks like warm water, and the water is unusually warm this summer, thus attracting them to the North Carolina beaches. The ocean's high salt content this year, higher than normal, also attracts sharks. Even with all the shark attacks in the last few weeks, swimmers are still flocking to the beaches in droves. One hotelier at a beach resort in North Carolina said she had had NO cancellations due to sharks. I guess many of the beachgoers never saw Jaws. If they did, I think they'd stay out of the water, at least for a while. That was one scary movie.
Some experts say it's the perfect storm. Warmer weather, higher salinity in the ocean, a bloom of bait fish, fishing near swimmers, global warming. The most likely explanation is the ever increasing amount of time spent in the sea by humans, which increases the opportunities for interaction between man and shark. Finally, there are more people on the planet, more swimmers in the ocean, thus more likelihood of their interaction.
>p>Sharks do not typically attack or eat humans. They are looking for fish, and in the process man might just get in the way. Sharks follow schools of fish bait, which often swim near fishing piers. A tip from science experts is to get out of the water if you see schools of small fish. That could mean a shark is near. Sharks like warm water, and the water is unusually warm this summer, thus attracting them to the North Carolina beaches. The ocean's high salt content this year, higher than normal, also attracts sharks. Even with all the shark attacks in the last few weeks, swimmers are still flocking to the beaches in droves. One hotelier at a beach resort in North Carolina said she had had NO cancellations due to sharks. I guess many of the beachgoers never saw Jaws. If they did, I think they'd stay out of the water, at least for a while. That was one scary movie.
Friday, July 3, 2015
The Green Prince
The Green Prince is a 2014 German documentary directed by Nadav Schirman. It is based on the autobiography of Mosab Hassan Yousef, Son of Hamas. The movie received four awards including Best Documentary , by the Israeli Film Academy. It's a story that is hard to believe, but one that I just thought you should know about.
Mosab Hassan Yousef is the son of Hamas leader Hassan Yousef. Mosab was a defiant teenager. His fervor against Israel was unquestionable, ultimately landing him in prison. Mosab was shaken by the brutality of Hamas within the prison walls. He was disgusted with their methods, especially suicide bombings, and had an unexpected change of heart and began to see Hamas as more of the problem than the solution. He was recruited by the Shin Bet (Israel's internal security agency) and given the code name "Green Prince." He spied on the Hamas elite for over a decade, including his own father. He was constantly exposed to death while grappling with the perception that he had betrayed his own family and people. Along the way, a cautious alliance between Mosab and his Shin Bet handler Gonen Ben Yitzhak grew into an enduring loyalty that no one could have predicted.
Mosab was eventually given political asylum in the U.S, with the help of Gonen Ben Yitzhak, the Shin Bet handler who had recruited him and who he worked with for ten years. Gonen came to the U.S. to testify as to the fact that Mosab was not a terrorist, and should be able to stay in the U.S. He came to San Diego originally, but because of death threats and danger from Hamas, Mosab now moves frequently and is a loner. However, he does get frequent calls from his former Israeli handler, Gonen Ben Yitzhak, now an attorney in Israel, his loyal supporter. His own family has disowned him, and he is truly alone.
The film opened my eyes. This was an incident that happened right here in San Diego in 2005, yet this was the first I ever heard of it. The film is riveting, and I recommend it to anyone interested in the Israeli Palestinian conflict. Mosab Hassan Yousef has converted to Christianity. He truly made a profound spiritual transformation. Just thought you should know.
Mosab Hassan Yousef is the son of Hamas leader Hassan Yousef. Mosab was a defiant teenager. His fervor against Israel was unquestionable, ultimately landing him in prison. Mosab was shaken by the brutality of Hamas within the prison walls. He was disgusted with their methods, especially suicide bombings, and had an unexpected change of heart and began to see Hamas as more of the problem than the solution. He was recruited by the Shin Bet (Israel's internal security agency) and given the code name "Green Prince." He spied on the Hamas elite for over a decade, including his own father. He was constantly exposed to death while grappling with the perception that he had betrayed his own family and people. Along the way, a cautious alliance between Mosab and his Shin Bet handler Gonen Ben Yitzhak grew into an enduring loyalty that no one could have predicted.
Mosab was eventually given political asylum in the U.S, with the help of Gonen Ben Yitzhak, the Shin Bet handler who had recruited him and who he worked with for ten years. Gonen came to the U.S. to testify as to the fact that Mosab was not a terrorist, and should be able to stay in the U.S. He came to San Diego originally, but because of death threats and danger from Hamas, Mosab now moves frequently and is a loner. However, he does get frequent calls from his former Israeli handler, Gonen Ben Yitzhak, now an attorney in Israel, his loyal supporter. His own family has disowned him, and he is truly alone.
The film opened my eyes. This was an incident that happened right here in San Diego in 2005, yet this was the first I ever heard of it. The film is riveting, and I recommend it to anyone interested in the Israeli Palestinian conflict. Mosab Hassan Yousef has converted to Christianity. He truly made a profound spiritual transformation. Just thought you should know.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
On Lok Model Sets The Standard For Elderly Care
On Lok was founded in 1972 as an alternative to nursing homes, to keep elderly citizens in their homes and communities while getting the care and support they need. Since then it has received national attention. On Lok is Cantonese for "peaceful, happy abode. On Lok provides all -inclusive care while allowing seniors to stay in their own homes.
On Lok's model has been so successful that it has been replicated by 87 organizations in 30 states and is funded in part by the federal government. (the model has evolved into a program called PACE). Several studies have shown that On Lok saves money over putting people in a nursing home. Each senior has a complete team of professionals-doctors, social workers, physical therapists, dietitians and more. The added benefit, according to studies, is that seniors in the program live longer, happier and healthier lives. Their visits to doctors and hospitals is far less than seniors in nursing homes.
Most importantly, it keeps seniors in their homes and communities as long as possible. On Lok has been responsible for other innovations. The nonprofit developed an electronic medical records system for use in long-term care facilities nationwide. It offers a diabetes self-management course for seniors, and it created an entertaining physical therapy program for participants using the Nintendo Wii.
Almost all of the seniors served by On Lok are very low income, with a median income of $812 per month. Most are on Medicare or Medii-Cal. On Lok began in San Francisco. Part of their original mission was to allow Chinese Americans to continue to enjoy their language and culture. These seniors felt isolated in traditional nursing homes. Today, 66% of their seniors are Asian, but they now serve Caucasian, Latino, and African American.
I recently saw a documentary on KPBS about On Lok, and thought to myself that this was such a wonderful way to keep seniors happy, healthy, involved, and in their own homes. The added benefit is that it saves us all money. The cost of this program is far less than the cost of a nursing home. Keeping seniors at home as long as possible seems best for everyone.
On Lok's model has been so successful that it has been replicated by 87 organizations in 30 states and is funded in part by the federal government. (the model has evolved into a program called PACE). Several studies have shown that On Lok saves money over putting people in a nursing home. Each senior has a complete team of professionals-doctors, social workers, physical therapists, dietitians and more. The added benefit, according to studies, is that seniors in the program live longer, happier and healthier lives. Their visits to doctors and hospitals is far less than seniors in nursing homes.
Most importantly, it keeps seniors in their homes and communities as long as possible. On Lok has been responsible for other innovations. The nonprofit developed an electronic medical records system for use in long-term care facilities nationwide. It offers a diabetes self-management course for seniors, and it created an entertaining physical therapy program for participants using the Nintendo Wii.
Almost all of the seniors served by On Lok are very low income, with a median income of $812 per month. Most are on Medicare or Medii-Cal. On Lok began in San Francisco. Part of their original mission was to allow Chinese Americans to continue to enjoy their language and culture. These seniors felt isolated in traditional nursing homes. Today, 66% of their seniors are Asian, but they now serve Caucasian, Latino, and African American.
I recently saw a documentary on KPBS about On Lok, and thought to myself that this was such a wonderful way to keep seniors happy, healthy, involved, and in their own homes. The added benefit is that it saves us all money. The cost of this program is far less than the cost of a nursing home. Keeping seniors at home as long as possible seems best for everyone.
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