Items of Interest

There are a lot of interesting little tidbits in the news today. Former Mayoral Candidate Eric Griego has landed a position with Governor Richardson's administration in the Economic Development Department. Griego, who was always in trouble with the Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board because he was a smart growth advocate, will take his talents and focus to state government. Governor Richardson has a soft spot for guys like Griego, and uh, me. After serving as Mayor he appointed me as State Natural Resource Trustee, a position I have held for three years now. One can only wonder if this appointment of Griego is somehow connected with Mayor Midnight Marty's hiring of republican bad boy legislator Greg Payne to run the city transit operation. I actually think Payne has matured a little since he was a thorn in my side as Mayor. It will be interesting to see if he can handle that monster of a city agency. Bus patrons are notoriously vocal about their service.

The death of science in America marches on with the revelation that the FDA flipped off its experts and scientists and denied non prescription status to the Plan B contraceptive, or morning after pill. Religious fanatics in the bush administration are making a laughing stock out of this country. This comes on the heels of the religious rights position that the anti cervical cancer vaccine will promote promiscuity and should be banned. Once again, they would choose cancer for your daughters over any premarital sex. Oh, and cancer for women once they are married.