Friday, September 04, 2009
North Carolina H1N1 "Swine Flu" Isolation Order (State Health Director Document)
UPDATE (09/08/09) -- Why is there an H5N1 bird flu preparedness billboard near Jacksonville, North Carolina when all the hype is on the H1N1 swine flu?
***
If you get infected with the H1N1 virus in North Carolina, you may be subject to a quarantine. To read the draft document created by the North Carolina Department of Health, click this sentence. If you violate the order, you may be subject to two (2) years in prison.
You may have been exposed or are reasonably suspected of being exposed to swine influenza A (H1N1) and have developed some symptoms of swine influenza infection. If swine influenza spreads in the community, it will have severe public health consequences. Your illness requires that you be isolated and requires further public health investigation and monitoring.
I, [name of health director] of [name of agency], pursuant to authority vested in me by North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) 130A-145, issue this ISOLATION ORDER to [name of person].
You are required to remain at the following location [_______________________ ] through __________ [seven days after onset of symptoms] or 24 hours after symptoms resolve, whichever comes later, or until notified by the health department that additional information demonstrates that you are not infected with the swine influenza virus.
You are required to:
• Follow these instructions for the duration of this order.
• Contact the health department if, during the duration of this order, your symptoms become worse, or you develop any new symptom such as fever, headache, muscle aches or respiratory difficulties, including sore throat, cough or breathing difficulties. If you require medical care during the duration of this order, you are required to notify your medical provider or emergency responder of your diagnosis in advance so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
• Comply with other requirements based on individual circumstances of the isolation or the disease:___________________________________
If you fail to comply with this ISOLATION ORDER, you will be subject to prosecution pursuant to NCGS 130A-25, which provides for imprisonment for up to two (2) years, as well as pretrial detention without bail under NCGS 15A-534.5 (emphasis added).
The staff of this Health Department is available to provide assistance and counseling to you concerning your swine influenza infection and compliance with this ISOLATION ORDER.
The authority of this ISOLATION ORDER to restrict your freedom of movement expires in 30 days from the date of this order unless extended or modified by a court pursuant to NCGS 130A-145. You may petition the Superior Court for review of the restriction of your freedom of movement contained in this ISOLATION ORDER pursuant to NCGS 130A-145(d).
________________________________
Health Director
Date:_________________________
Time:_________________________
Issued by:_________________
Date:_____________________
I have received the original copy of this order:
________________________________
Patient Signature Date
***
If you get infected with the H1N1 virus in North Carolina, you may be subject to a quarantine. To read the draft document created by the North Carolina Department of Health, click this sentence. If you violate the order, you may be subject to two (2) years in prison.
ISOLATION ORDER
Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Infection
DRAFT
Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Infection
DRAFT
You may have been exposed or are reasonably suspected of being exposed to swine influenza A (H1N1) and have developed some symptoms of swine influenza infection. If swine influenza spreads in the community, it will have severe public health consequences. Your illness requires that you be isolated and requires further public health investigation and monitoring.
I, [name of health director] of [name of agency], pursuant to authority vested in me by North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) 130A-145, issue this ISOLATION ORDER to [name of person].
You are required to remain at the following location [_______________________ ] through __________ [seven days after onset of symptoms] or 24 hours after symptoms resolve, whichever comes later, or until notified by the health department that additional information demonstrates that you are not infected with the swine influenza virus.
You are required to:
• Follow these instructions for the duration of this order.
• Contact the health department if, during the duration of this order, your symptoms become worse, or you develop any new symptom such as fever, headache, muscle aches or respiratory difficulties, including sore throat, cough or breathing difficulties. If you require medical care during the duration of this order, you are required to notify your medical provider or emergency responder of your diagnosis in advance so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
• Comply with other requirements based on individual circumstances of the isolation or the disease:___________________________________
If you fail to comply with this ISOLATION ORDER, you will be subject to prosecution pursuant to NCGS 130A-25, which provides for imprisonment for up to two (2) years, as well as pretrial detention without bail under NCGS 15A-534.5 (emphasis added).
The staff of this Health Department is available to provide assistance and counseling to you concerning your swine influenza infection and compliance with this ISOLATION ORDER.
The authority of this ISOLATION ORDER to restrict your freedom of movement expires in 30 days from the date of this order unless extended or modified by a court pursuant to NCGS 130A-145. You may petition the Superior Court for review of the restriction of your freedom of movement contained in this ISOLATION ORDER pursuant to NCGS 130A-145(d).
________________________________
Health Director
Date:_________________________
Time:_________________________
Issued by:_________________
Date:_____________________
I have received the original copy of this order:
________________________________
Patient Signature Date
Source: CDC
Iowa Department of Health Antiviral Shortage Order
To download the Order from the CDC, click this sentence.
This is an additional document to review in connection with the recent Iowa Quarantine Order documents. This Order will be used if the State runs low on its supply of anti-virals. However, I do believe that these are only draft documents.
BEFORE THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
_________________________________
ANITVIRAL SHORTAGE ORDER
__________________________________
Pursuant to the authority contained in Iowa Code sections 135.142 and 135.144(3), the Iowa Department of Public Health hereby issues the following order:
Public Health Disaster Declared: The Governor of the State of Iowa issued a proclamation of disaster emergency and public health disaster on May 1, 2009, in response to the outbreak of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) in the state of Iowa. The outbreak has resulted in a statewide and regional shortage of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir). The Iowa Department of Public Health is therefore authorized to control, restrict, and regulate by rationing and using quotas, prohibitions of shipments, allocation, or other means the use, sale, dispensing, distribution, or transportation of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir).
Order issued to: All Iowa licensed health care providers, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, local boards of health, public health agencies, and [insert any other applicable groups]
Conditions of Order: Due to the current shortage of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) in the state of Iowa, you are hereby ordered to immediately comply with the following to protect the public health and prevent and control the spread of Novel Influenza A (H1N1):
1) You shall CEASE offering, dispensing, distributing, or administering tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) to anyone who is not in a priority designation. Individuals in a priority designation include:
[insert priority list]
You are prohibited from offering, dispensing, distributing, and administering tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) to any person who is not included in a priority designation.
2) You shall cooperate with the Iowa Department of Public Health and local boards of health or health departments to assess and monitor the antiviral supply and coordinate the administration of these antivirals to persons in priority designations.
3) You shall cooperate with the Iowa Department of Public Health and local boards of health and health departments to redistribute the antivirals as needed in order to protect those at highest risk of contracting or developing severe symptoms of Novel Influenza A (H1N1).
4) You shall prominently post this Order in locations where these antivirals are administered.
Violation of Order: Pursuant to Iowa Code section 135.38, an individual who violates this Order may be subject to criminal prosecution.
In addition, health care providers who violate this Order shall be referred to the appropriate professional licensing board for investigation and possible disciplinary action.
If you have any questions regarding this Order, please call [insert phone number].
Effective date of order: [insert dates]
Executed by:
_____________________
Director or Medical Director
Iowa Department of Public Health
_____________________
Date
Source: CDC
This is an additional document to review in connection with the recent Iowa Quarantine Order documents. This Order will be used if the State runs low on its supply of anti-virals. However, I do believe that these are only draft documents.
BEFORE THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
_________________________________
ANITVIRAL SHORTAGE ORDER
__________________________________
Pursuant to the authority contained in Iowa Code sections 135.142 and 135.144(3), the Iowa Department of Public Health hereby issues the following order:
Public Health Disaster Declared: The Governor of the State of Iowa issued a proclamation of disaster emergency and public health disaster on May 1, 2009, in response to the outbreak of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) in the state of Iowa. The outbreak has resulted in a statewide and regional shortage of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir). The Iowa Department of Public Health is therefore authorized to control, restrict, and regulate by rationing and using quotas, prohibitions of shipments, allocation, or other means the use, sale, dispensing, distribution, or transportation of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir).
Order issued to: All Iowa licensed health care providers, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, local boards of health, public health agencies, and [insert any other applicable groups]
Conditions of Order: Due to the current shortage of tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) in the state of Iowa, you are hereby ordered to immediately comply with the following to protect the public health and prevent and control the spread of Novel Influenza A (H1N1):
1) You shall CEASE offering, dispensing, distributing, or administering tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) to anyone who is not in a priority designation. Individuals in a priority designation include:
[insert priority list]
You are prohibited from offering, dispensing, distributing, and administering tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate) and relenza (zanamivir) to any person who is not included in a priority designation.
2) You shall cooperate with the Iowa Department of Public Health and local boards of health or health departments to assess and monitor the antiviral supply and coordinate the administration of these antivirals to persons in priority designations.
3) You shall cooperate with the Iowa Department of Public Health and local boards of health and health departments to redistribute the antivirals as needed in order to protect those at highest risk of contracting or developing severe symptoms of Novel Influenza A (H1N1).
4) You shall prominently post this Order in locations where these antivirals are administered.
Violation of Order: Pursuant to Iowa Code section 135.38, an individual who violates this Order may be subject to criminal prosecution.
In addition, health care providers who violate this Order shall be referred to the appropriate professional licensing board for investigation and possible disciplinary action.
If you have any questions regarding this Order, please call [insert phone number].
Effective date of order: [insert dates]
Executed by:
_____________________
Director or Medical Director
Iowa Department of Public Health
_____________________
Date
Source: CDC
Tacoma-Pierce County, Washington State Group Emergency Detention Order for Pandemics!
To download this Washington State Group Emergency Detention Order in PDF, click here.
GROUP EMERGENCY DETENTION ORDER
The group described herein, ____________________, (description of group, including number of individuals within the group) and named individually on the attached Confidential Schedule, is hereby ordered to detention at:
_____________________________
(premises subject to isolation and quarantine)
pursuant to WAC 246-100-040 et seq.. Your isolation or quarantine
commences on _____________ and _______________________.
(date) (time)
This Order will remain in effect until __________ and ________,
(date) (time)
unless otherwise rescinded, but not to exceed 10 days.
Suspected Communicable Disease or Infectious Agent if Known: __________
_________________________________
Reasons for Isolation of Entire Group, Including Reason for Grouping of Detention Order (Examples include, but are not limited to, a group that came in on a ship or airplane):
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Measures Taken by Local Health Officer to Seek Voluntary Compliance OR Basis For Which Local Health Officer Determined Seeking Voluntary Compliance Would Create Risk of Serious Harm:
[ ] The group has refused the local health officers attempt to obtain voluntary compliance.
[ ] The local health officer has determined that seeking your voluntary compliance of the group would create an imminent risk of serious public harm. This determination was based upon the following:
_______________________________
_______________________________.
[ ] Other:_______________________________
______________________________________.
Medical Basis on Which Decision to Isolate or Quarantine Is Justified:
[ ] The group is suspected of having been exposed to ___________ and is potentially currently infectious to others..
[ ] The group has been diagnosed with an active case of ______________ and is in all likelihood currently infectious to others.
[ ] Other: ______________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________.
Special Instructions:
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
It is very important for the protection of your own health and that of others that this group abide by this emergency detention order. If you have any questions about this order or need assistance in complying, please call: _________________.
The Health Officer may petition the Superior Court for an order authorizing continued isolation or quarantine for a period up to 30 days.
__________________________________________
Local Health Officer or His Designee
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Deptartment.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
You have the right to a petition the Superior Court for release from isolation or quarantine in accordance with WAC 246-100-055. You have the right to legal counsel. If you are unable to afford legal counsel, then counsel will be appointed for you at government expense and you should request the appointment of counsel at this time. If you currently have legal counsel, then you have an opportunity to contact that counsel for assistance.
I, __________________________________________, (group member) acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Emergency Detention Order, and that I have read or had read to me said Order and understand the terms therein.
Signed _________________. Dated this _______ day of _____________, 200___.
Internal use only:
Dated this ___________________day of __________, 20_____.
Date copies of Written Order was delivered to person or group of persons: _______________________. Method of delivery: personal service______; registered mail_____. If the order relates to a group and the order is posted, date and location of posting: _____________.
The group described herein, ____________________, (description of group, including number of individuals within the group) and named individually on the attached Confidential Schedule, is hereby ordered to detention at:
_____________________________
(premises subject to isolation and quarantine)
pursuant to WAC 246-100-040 et seq.. Your isolation or quarantine
commences on _____________ and _______________________.
(date) (time)
This Order will remain in effect until __________ and ________,
(date) (time)
unless otherwise rescinded, but not to exceed 10 days.
Suspected Communicable Disease or Infectious Agent if Known: __________
_________________________________
Reasons for Isolation of Entire Group, Including Reason for Grouping of Detention Order (Examples include, but are not limited to, a group that came in on a ship or airplane):
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Measures Taken by Local Health Officer to Seek Voluntary Compliance OR Basis For Which Local Health Officer Determined Seeking Voluntary Compliance Would Create Risk of Serious Harm:
[ ] The group has refused the local health officers attempt to obtain voluntary compliance.
[ ] The local health officer has determined that seeking your voluntary compliance of the group would create an imminent risk of serious public harm. This determination was based upon the following:
_______________________________
_______________________________.
[ ] Other:_______________________________
______________________________________.
Medical Basis on Which Decision to Isolate or Quarantine Is Justified:
[ ] The group is suspected of having been exposed to ___________ and is potentially currently infectious to others..
[ ] The group has been diagnosed with an active case of ______________ and is in all likelihood currently infectious to others.
[ ] Other: ______________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________.
Special Instructions:
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
It is very important for the protection of your own health and that of others that this group abide by this emergency detention order. If you have any questions about this order or need assistance in complying, please call: _________________.
The Health Officer may petition the Superior Court for an order authorizing continued isolation or quarantine for a period up to 30 days.
__________________________________________
Local Health Officer or His Designee
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Deptartment.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
You have the right to a petition the Superior Court for release from isolation or quarantine in accordance with WAC 246-100-055. You have the right to legal counsel. If you are unable to afford legal counsel, then counsel will be appointed for you at government expense and you should request the appointment of counsel at this time. If you currently have legal counsel, then you have an opportunity to contact that counsel for assistance.
I, __________________________________________, (group member) acknowledge that I have received a copy of the Emergency Detention Order, and that I have read or had read to me said Order and understand the terms therein.
Signed _________________. Dated this _______ day of _____________, 200___.
Internal use only:
Dated this ___________________day of __________, 20_____.
Date copies of Written Order was delivered to person or group of persons: _______________________. Method of delivery: personal service______; registered mail_____. If the order relates to a group and the order is posted, date and location of posting: _____________.
FDIC Friday Night Feast (Bank Closing List - September 4, 2009)
As of 7:42pm PDT, the FDIC has closed five (5) banks -- First Bank of Kansas City, InBank of Oak Forest, Illinois, Vantus Bank of Sioux City, Iowa, Platinum Community Bank of Rolling Meadows, Illinois and First State Bank, Flagstaff, Arizona.
First Bank of Kansas will cost $6 million against the FDIC insurance fund. InBank will cost $66 million against the FDIC insurance fund. Vantus Bank will cost $168 million against the FDIC insurance fund. Platinum Community Bank will cost $114.3 million against the FDIC insurance fund. First State Bank will cost $47 million against the FDIC insurance fund.
The total amount charged against the FDIC insurance fund today is $401.3 million! I will update this list as more bank closings, if any, come in today.
Source: FDIC
First Bank of Kansas will cost $6 million against the FDIC insurance fund. InBank will cost $66 million against the FDIC insurance fund. Vantus Bank will cost $168 million against the FDIC insurance fund. Platinum Community Bank will cost $114.3 million against the FDIC insurance fund. First State Bank will cost $47 million against the FDIC insurance fund.
The total amount charged against the FDIC insurance fund today is $401.3 million! I will update this list as more bank closings, if any, come in today.
Bank Name | City | State | CERT # | Closing Date | Updated Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First State Bank | Flagstaff | AZ | 34875 | September 4, 2009 | September 4, 2009 |
| Platinum Community Bank | Rolling Meadows | IL | 35030 | September 4, 2009 | September 4, 2009 |
| Vantus Bank | Sioux City | IA | 27732 | September 4, 2009 | September 4, 2009 |
| InBank | Oak Forest | IL | 20203 | September 4, 2009 | September 4, 2009 |
| First Bank of Kansas City | Kansas City | MO | 25231 | September 4, 2009 | September 4, 2009 |
| Affinity Bank | Ventura | CA | 27197 | August 28, 2009 | September 2, 2009 |
Source: FDIC
Federal & State Pandemic Quarantine and Isolation Authority (Report to Congress)
You can download the full Congressional report discussing the government's quarantine authority by clicking this sentence.
The President's quarantine authority stems from Executive Order 13295 signed by George W. Bush on April 4, 2003, as amended by Executive Order 13375 on April 1, 2005, and it covers the following list of communicable diseases: cholera, diphtheria, infectious tuberculosis, plague, smallpox, yellow fever, viral hemorrhagic fevers, SARS, and influenza caused by novel or reemergent influenza viruses that are causing or have the potential to cause a pandemic.
The United States is currently at W.H.O. Phase 6 as a result of the H1N1 "swine flu." Phase 6 is pandemic level. Therefore, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has the authority under Presidential Executive Order Section 13295 and section 361 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, 42 U.S.C. § 264 to make and enforce regulations necessary "to prevent the introduction, transmission, or spread of communicable diseases from foreign countries into the States or possessions, or from one State or possession into any other State or possession."
The report states that a person will be subject to misdemeanor criminal charges for violations of federal regulations issued pursuant to section 361 of the the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, 42 U.S.C. § 264, including federal quarantines or isolation orders. If you break the federal quarantine, you will be subject to the following:
The report also discusses the Model State Emergency Health Powers Act. I do not know too much about this act, so I will do some further research.
There have been a lot of questions about how NORTHCOM is ready to mobilize domestically in this H1N1 pandemic and has provided Secretary of Defense Robert Gates with an order for authorization. Unless this pandemic causes people to riot and wild out, any military use will likely violate Posse Comitatus.
Source: Congressional Research Service
The President's quarantine authority stems from Executive Order 13295 signed by George W. Bush on April 4, 2003, as amended by Executive Order 13375 on April 1, 2005, and it covers the following list of communicable diseases: cholera, diphtheria, infectious tuberculosis, plague, smallpox, yellow fever, viral hemorrhagic fevers, SARS, and influenza caused by novel or reemergent influenza viruses that are causing or have the potential to cause a pandemic.
The United States is currently at W.H.O. Phase 6 as a result of the H1N1 "swine flu." Phase 6 is pandemic level. Therefore, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has the authority under Presidential Executive Order Section 13295 and section 361 of the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, 42 U.S.C. § 264 to make and enforce regulations necessary "to prevent the introduction, transmission, or spread of communicable diseases from foreign countries into the States or possessions, or from one State or possession into any other State or possession."
The report states that a person will be subject to misdemeanor criminal charges for violations of federal regulations issued pursuant to section 361 of the the Public Health Service (PHS) Act, 42 U.S.C. § 264, including federal quarantines or isolation orders. If you break the federal quarantine, you will be subject to the following:
A person may be subject to a fine of up to $250,000, one year in jail, or both. Organizational violations may be subject to fines of up to $500,000 per event. Federal district courts may enjoin individuals and organizations from violation of CDC quarantine regulations.
The report also discusses the Model State Emergency Health Powers Act. I do not know too much about this act, so I will do some further research.
The Model State Emergency Health Powers Act (the Model Act) seeks to “grant public health powers to state and local public health authorities to ensure a strong, effective, and timely planning, prevention, and response mechanism to public health emergencies (including bioterrorism) while also respecting individual rights.” It is important to note that the act is intended to be a model for states to use in evaluating their emergency response plans; passage of the Model Act in its entirety is not required, so state legislatures may select the entire model, parts of it, or none at all. Many states have used parts of the Model Act while tailoring their statutes and regulations to respond to unique or novel situations that may arise in their jurisdiction. The Model Act provides a comprehensive framework for state emergency health powers, including statutory authority for quarantine and isolation. Section 604 of the Model Act authorizes the quarantine or isolation of an individual or groups of individuals during a public health emergency. The Model Act encourages the public health authority to adhere to specific conditions and principles when exercising quarantine or isolation authority. These conditions and principles include ensuring that the measures taken are the least restrictive means necessary to prevent the spread of the disease; monitoring the condition of quarantined or isolated individuals; and providing for the immediate release of individuals when they no longer pose a substantial risk of transmitting the disease to others. The Model Act provides that a failure to obey the rules and orders concerning quarantine and isolation shall be treated as a misdemeanor.
There have been a lot of questions about how NORTHCOM is ready to mobilize domestically in this H1N1 pandemic and has provided Secretary of Defense Robert Gates with an order for authorization. Unless this pandemic causes people to riot and wild out, any military use will likely violate Posse Comitatus.
Courts have held that, absent a recognized exception, the Posse Comitatus Act is violated when (1) civilian law enforcement officials make “direct active use” of military investigators, (2) the use of the military “pervades the activities” of the civilian officials, or (3) the military is used to subject citizens to the exercise of military power that is “regulatory, prescriptive, or compulsory in nature.” To the extent that quarantine enforcement measures involve the compulsion of civilians to remain in or leave an area, for example, it appears that the Posse Comitatus Act would be implicated. Thus, unless a pandemic were to lead to significant civil unrest or call for other military activity already authorized pursuant to existing exceptions, Congress would have to enact a law to authorize military enforcement of health measures.
Source: Congressional Research Service
Secret Trucks Carrying Nuclear Weapons Around the U.S. Without Warning!
If you see the above truck driving through your 'hood, it may be carrying deadly nuclear weapons and dangerous materials. Proceed with caution!
Source: The Huffington Post
The idea of nuclear weapons being carted around in our highways, cities and neighborhoods doesn't really put one's mind at ease. However, the government has been transporting seriously dangerous stuff like enriched uranium and plutonium secretly without public warning. Friends of the Earth through the Freedom of Information Act has forced the Department Of Energy to release color photos of the trucks used to transport weapons. According to FOE, these are the first of such pictures that have been released in many years.
Source: The Huffington Post
Maine Governor Baldacci Signs Civil Emergency Proclamation Due to H1N1 "Swine Flu" (Statewide Vaccination Program Next)!
Thank you, Governor John E. Baldacci (not!). Maine is now under a civil emergency due to the H1N1 "swine flu" which still has killed very, very few people in the overall scheme of things. It appears that the globalists are going for broke using this swine flu hype as cover.
Governor Signs Civil Emergency Order to Fight Flu, Facilitate School-Based Vaccinations
September 1, 2009
Governor's Office
AUGUSTA – Governor John E. Baldacci today signed a Proclamation of Civil Emergency Due to a Highly Infectious Agent to allow the State to better respond to the potential dangers of H1N1 flu and to facilitate a statewide vaccination campaign.
“Maine has been proactive in its response to this new flu,” Governor Baldacci said. “But as the school year begins, we must continue our vigilance, which will require a responsible and aggressive vaccination and public education campaign. It’s our goal that every person in the State has access to vaccines for the seasonal and H1N1 flu.”
Many school districts reported that a concern about potential liability was putting at risk their ability to participate in vaccination clinics. The proclamation protects school districts and other vaccination clinic participants from liability.
The Proclamation also will provide immunity from tort liability for approved health care workers who administer the flu vaccines.
The Maine Center for Disease Control, the Department of Education and the Maine Emergency Management Agency will coordinate and facilitate the implementation of school supported vaccine clinics for both the seasonal flu and H1N1.
“While the vaccines are voluntary and the final decision is left to parents, it’s important that as many schools as possible participate so that every child in the State has access to this important preventative treatment,” Governor Baldacci said. “We know that controlling the spread of the flu in schools is one of the most effective ways to slow the disease.”
On June 11, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of H1N1. Since its initial detection in March, the virus has spread through 53 American states and territories and more than 200 countries. In June, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius made a PREP Act emergency declaration (Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act), granting immunity from tort liability in regards to H1N1 vaccines. In July, Secretary Sebelius renewed a determination that a public health emergency exists nationwide.
On April 29, Governor Baldacci signed an executive order that activated the State’s H1N1 Response Committee, which includes the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control, MEMA, the Department of Education and the Governor’s Office.
The text of the proclamation follows:
Proclamation of Civil Emergency Due to a Highly Infectious Agent
Pursuant to the authority vested in the Office of the Governor of the State of Maine, and pursuant to the relevant provisions of 37-B M.R.S.A. �� 703, 741, 742, 784-A and 822, I, John Elias Baldacci, Governor of the State of Maine, issue a Proclamation of Civil Emergency as follows:
1. Background and Need
On June 11, 2009 the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) virus and raised the pandemic alert level to Phase 6. Since the initial detection of the virus in March and April, 2009, it has spread through 53 American states and territories and over 200 countries, resulting in over 180,000 laboratory confirmed cases and over 2,000 deaths. The 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) virus is the predominant influenza virus in circulation worldwide and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted a significant increase in cases in the fall of 2009 and winter of 2010. On July 24, 2009 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, acting pursuant to her authority under section 319 of the Public Health Service Act, 42 U.S.C. �247-d-6, renewed the April 26, 2009 determination by former acting Secretary Charles E. Johnson that a public health emergency exists nationwide involving 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) which affects or has significant potential to affect national security.
To prevent the incidence and severity of seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1), the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have established guidance for the vaccination of at risk populations, based upon the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. With respect to seasonal influenza, it is recommended that all children between the ages of 6 months and 19 years be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. With respect to 2009 Influenza A (H1N1), it is recommended that the entire U.S. population be vaccinated, with initial vaccination afforded to high risk groups defined by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Funding for the seasonal influenza vaccination is provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and the Fund for a Healthy Maine. Funding for the 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine is provided by the federal government.
Several state agencies are involved in planning for the administration of statewide seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccinations. The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Maine Department of Education are organizing a statewide campaign to provide seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccination to children in school based clinics and other community based organizations. Once the 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine is available in October, 2009, the Maine Center for Disease Control will coordinate and facilitate the provision of the vaccine throughout the State of Maine in accordance with the guidance of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The availability of statewide school based vaccination clinics for seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) is threatened due to concerns about potential liability relating to the administration of the vaccines. These current conditions, including the imminent threat of influenza pandemic, constitute a threat to the safety and welfare of the people of the State of Maine and constitute a civil emergency or disaster within the meaning of the relevant emergency management statutes.
1. Mission and Scope
To respond to the current public health emergency, I order and declare the following:
A. A civil emergency is imminent, caused by the public health emergency.
B. The Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Maine Department of Education shall coordinate with the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management, Maine Emergency Management Agency to identify those health care workers duly licensed and authorized to administer influenza vaccines in the State of Maine who are able and available to participate in the planned vaccinations for seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1).
C. The Maine Center for Disease Control, Department of Education and Maine Emergency Management Agency shall coordinate and facilitate the establishment, implementation, administration and operation of school supported vaccine clinics in a manner consistent with the recommendations of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
D. The relevant provisions of the Maine Pandemic Influenza Plan will be activated to facilitate the distribution and administration of seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccines.
E. To the extent necessary to assure the timely provision of seasonal influenza and 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) vaccination in accordance with the guidance of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Maine Center for Disease Control and the Department of Education, the Maine Emergency Management Agency will exercise its authority pursuant to 37-B M.R.S.A. �784-A to designate appropriate health care workers licensed in this State and authorized to administer influenza vaccines to participate in vaccination clinics in accordance with the requirements of this Proclamation.
F. All persons designated by the Maine Emergency Management Agency to participate in vaccine administration pursuant to Paragraph E shall, pursuant to 37-B M.R.S.A. �784-A, be deemed to be an employee of the State and entitled to immunity pursuant to 37-B M.R.S.A. �822.
G. All State departments and agencies shall take whatever actions may be required and requested by the Maine Emergency Management Agency, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and Department of Education to respond to this public health emergency. A record of such actions, if any, shall be compiled and presented to me by the heads of the affected departments and agencies on a reasonable and timely basis throughout the duration of this Emergency Proclamation.
H. The Maine Center for Disease Control, the Department of Education and the Maine Emergency Management Agency shall coordinate with the federal government to secure all appropriate influenza vaccines related to this public health emergency provided for by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and other federal funds.
1. Duration
Pursuant to 37-B M.R.S.A. �743, this Emergency Proclamation shall expire thirty (30) days from the date of its signature, unless earlier rescinded by the Executive or upon joint resolution of the Legislature terminating the Emergency Proclamation, or unless extended by subsequent action of the Executive.
Given under my hand this 1st day of
September, 2009.
John E. Baldacci
Governor
Source: Maine.gov
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Lungs of People Killed by H1N1 "Swine Flu" are Very Similar to Lungs of People Who Die From H5N1 "Bird Flu"
Is there more to this whole H1N1 "swine flu" issue than the media is telling us? It was first reported on here that a couple of patients have been infected with both H1N1 and H5N1 viruses. Now it is being reported by CTV that the lungs of H1N1 victims and H5N1 victims look substantially similar, which would mean that H1N1 may have the potential to mimic H5N1. H5N1 has a 60% kill rate. If you combine H1N1's rapid ability to spread worldwide along with H5N1's kill rate, watch out!
Has the H1N1 merged with the H5N1? Has the swine flu merged with the bird flu?
I guess when pigs fly!
Source: CTV
The lungs of people who have died from swine flu look more like those of the victims of H5N1 avian influenza than those of people who succumb to regular flu, the chief of infectious diseases pathology at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control says.
The damage to lung tissue is consistent with that inflicted by ARDS or acute respiratory distress symptom, Zaki says, referring to an often-fatal, difficult-to-treat syndrome that can have a number of causes. The U.S. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute estimates about 30 per cent of people who develop ARDS die. "In terms of the disease, yes, it (H1N1) is remarkably different than seasonal flu," Zaki says. "The pathology looks very similar to H5(N1)."
Has the H1N1 merged with the H5N1? Has the swine flu merged with the bird flu?
I guess when pigs fly!
Source: CTV
Air Force Adds Air-to-Ground Laser Beams to Its Arsenal!
It is 2009, so I would have expected the Air Force to have laser beams a decade or so ago. I guess it is better late than never, because the Air Force finally successfully used laser beams to hit a ground target from the air.
Source: Military and Aerospace Electronics
Image Source: Arcade-History.com
Laser weapons experts from Boeing and the U.S. Air Force defeated a ground target from the air with the Advanced Tactical Laser (ATL) aircraft Aug. 30 in ATL's first air-to-ground, high power laser engagement of a tactically representative target.
Source: Military and Aerospace Electronics
Image Source: Arcade-History.com
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Has H1N1 "Swine Flu" Combined with H5N1 "Bird Flu" to Create a Super Flu Pandemic?
This is an initial report of people being infected with both H1N1 and H5N1 viruses in Egypt which has not been documented anywhere in the world up to this point. If the two flu strains have combined to form some super flu, then this pandemic will get much much worse.
Source: Adn Kronos International
A 35 year-old Italian tourist is one of three people believed to have been infected with A(H1N1) virus, or swine flu, as well as the H5N1 virus, known as avian flu. The patients are recovering in the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Hurghada, said Mohammed Rifai, director general of preventive medicine.
Rifai also spoke of a 28-year-old man who tested positive for both viruses, after arriving at the port of Safaga after a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
"We are waiting the results of the tests that have already been carried out in some patients suspected of having been infected by the H5N1 and the A(H1N1)," said World Health Organisation spokesman Gregory Hartl in an interview with Adnkronos Salute...
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization interim chief veterinary officer, Juan Lubroth, said that it could theoretically become more dangerous if the A(H1N1) combines with H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, which is far more deadly but harder to pass along among humans.
Source: Adn Kronos International
Kansas = First State in Nation to Own Gambling Casinos! (Opening in December)
I wonder what famous folks from Kansas like Kathleen Sebelius and Sheila Bair think about gambling casinos coming to KS. Hall-of-Fame coach Tom Landry (Dallas Cowboys) certainly doesn't agree with legalized gambling.
Nevertheless, Kansas will own the casinos and set the odds, so you probably won't be winning much if you happen to stop at these casinos. The first of these casinos will be opening up in Dodge City.
Source: Casino Gambling Web
Nevertheless, Kansas will own the casinos and set the odds, so you probably won't be winning much if you happen to stop at these casinos. The first of these casinos will be opening up in Dodge City.
In Kansas, the state will be the first in the nation that will own their own casinos. The first of these state-owned casinos will be opened in December in Dodge City, and patrons can expect that their odds of winning on the slot machines in the casino will be low.
Part of the advantage of owning a casino is that the owners will have the right to set the odds for the slot machines. Kansas officials will have full access to the software that sets the odds, and some people are concerned about that fact.
Source: Casino Gambling Web
Florida Department of Health Quarantine Detention Order To Be Used For H1N1 Swine Flu?
To download the actual Detention Order, click this sentence.
Florida Department Of Health
__________ County Health Department
QUARANTINE DETENTION ORDER
By authority of Chapter 381 and 252, Florida Statutes and Chapter 64D-3, Florida Administrative Code
_____ CHD Order #____________.
Pursuant to the authority vested in this office by Chapter 381, Florida Statutes, and by your refusal to comply with the Orders of the _______ County Health Department, you, __________ _(name)____________ are hereby DETAINED under QUARANTINE in the following secure facility, ___________________________. You are further classified as non-compliant with quarantine because after you were counseled about a communicable disease or unsafe condition that poses a threat to the public health, and methods to minimize the risk to the public and, despite such counseling, you indicated an intent by (words or actions) to expose the public to ________________. All other reasonable means of obtaining your compliance with quarantine have been exhausted; no less restrictive alternative exists.
You shall remain in detention from the date of this Order until (date) or until released from DETENTION QUARANTINE by the undersigned, such determination to be made upon the recommendation of the State Epidemiologist or State Health Officer.
While in DETENTION QUARANTINE, you shall comply with all orders of the detention facility regarding your medical care. You shall cooperate with the detention facility’s access to you and access to your medical records for purposes of delivering or monitoring your medical care.
Other Requirements/Orders:
Reasons For Above:
DONE and ORDERED by the ________ County Health Director/Administrator this ____
day of ___________, 20___.
By order of:
___________________________
________ County Health Department
_________Area Code & Phone Number
(for quarantine review requests, contact person)
DUTY TO COMPLY: This action is taken under the police power authority of the health department and your cooperation is required by law. Violation of any term of this Order or failure to comply during the life of this Order with the above-stated directives, including any attempt by a person to enter, exit or behave in a manner prohibited by the Order, is a CRIME.
RIGHT TO REVIEW. Upon request to the CHD, this Quarantine Order will be reviewed on an expedited basis. Review can be initiated by a phone call to the telephone number of the official whose name appears on this Order.
RIGHT TO CHALLENGE: This Quarantine Order may be challenged, such as through petition for writ of habeas corpus, Ch. 79, F.S., following the procedures set out in Rule 1.630, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure (extraordinary remedies) or by Petition For Administrative Review, sec. 120.569 et seq., F.S.
If you have concerns or questions regarding this Quarantine Order that you wish to discuss with your attorney please do so by telephone. Do not go to your attorney’s office or break this Quarantine in any way.
Legal Authority: s.381.0011(4),(5),(6) and s.381.0012(5), and s. 252.36(2), F.S.; Rules 64D-3.005 and 64D-3.007, Florida Administrative Code
Source: CDC
__________ County Health Department
QUARANTINE DETENTION ORDER
By authority of Chapter 381 and 252, Florida Statutes and Chapter 64D-3, Florida Administrative Code
_____ CHD Order #____________.
Pursuant to the authority vested in this office by Chapter 381, Florida Statutes, and by your refusal to comply with the Orders of the _______ County Health Department, you, __________ _(name)____________ are hereby DETAINED under QUARANTINE in the following secure facility, ___________________________. You are further classified as non-compliant with quarantine because after you were counseled about a communicable disease or unsafe condition that poses a threat to the public health, and methods to minimize the risk to the public and, despite such counseling, you indicated an intent by (words or actions) to expose the public to ________________. All other reasonable means of obtaining your compliance with quarantine have been exhausted; no less restrictive alternative exists.
You shall remain in detention from the date of this Order until (date) or until released from DETENTION QUARANTINE by the undersigned, such determination to be made upon the recommendation of the State Epidemiologist or State Health Officer.
While in DETENTION QUARANTINE, you shall comply with all orders of the detention facility regarding your medical care. You shall cooperate with the detention facility’s access to you and access to your medical records for purposes of delivering or monitoring your medical care.
Other Requirements/Orders:
Reasons For Above:
DONE and ORDERED by the ________ County Health Director/Administrator this ____
day of ___________, 20___.
By order of:
___________________________
________ County Health Department
_________Area Code & Phone Number
(for quarantine review requests, contact person)
DUTY TO COMPLY: This action is taken under the police power authority of the health department and your cooperation is required by law. Violation of any term of this Order or failure to comply during the life of this Order with the above-stated directives, including any attempt by a person to enter, exit or behave in a manner prohibited by the Order, is a CRIME.
RIGHT TO REVIEW. Upon request to the CHD, this Quarantine Order will be reviewed on an expedited basis. Review can be initiated by a phone call to the telephone number of the official whose name appears on this Order.
RIGHT TO CHALLENGE: This Quarantine Order may be challenged, such as through petition for writ of habeas corpus, Ch. 79, F.S., following the procedures set out in Rule 1.630, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure (extraordinary remedies) or by Petition For Administrative Review, sec. 120.569 et seq., F.S.
If you have concerns or questions regarding this Quarantine Order that you wish to discuss with your attorney please do so by telephone. Do not go to your attorney’s office or break this Quarantine in any way.
Legal Authority: s.381.0011(4),(5),(6) and s.381.0012(5), and s. 252.36(2), F.S.; Rules 64D-3.005 and 64D-3.007, Florida Administrative Code
Source: CDC
Mystery HP Laptops Sent to Ten (10) State Governors!
The Governors' offices in West Virginia, Vermont, Wyoming and Washington received between three and five mystery laptops that were not ordered by the respective States. What was on the laptops? Was there malware? A way to steal critical state information? With the recent cyberattacks worldwide, I wonder if these laptops were a part of some type of planned cyberattack. The Governors did not use the Hewlett-Packard computers and the FBI is investigating the matter.
Source: Washington Post
The laptops were made by Hewlett-Packard or came from its Compaq brand. The world's leading PC maker said it told law enforcement that it intercepted and turned around similar deliveries ordered for six additional states.
"HP is aware that fraudulent state government orders recently have been placed for small amounts of HP equipment. HP took prompt corrective action to address the fraudulent orders and is working with law enforcement personnel on a criminal investigation," the Palo Alto, Calif.-based company said in a statement, declining further comment.
Source: Washington Post
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
FLASHBACK: Two Japanese Men Detained in Italy at Swiss Border With $134,000,000,000 in U.S. Treasury Bonds
When this story first broke a few months ago about two Japanese men trying to sneak into Switzerland with $134 billion in U.S. treasury bonds, I did not hear much information except for from the alternative media. Some people felt that it was a sign the economy was headed for an imminent collapse. I even heard that the bonds may have been counterfeits.
I didn't report on this story, because I could not confirm the details and the potential disinformation. I will email this Bloomberg reporter to see if there is any further update on these matters and update this blog post accordingly.
Source: Bloomberg
I didn't report on this story, because I could not confirm the details and the potential disinformation. I will email this Bloomberg reporter to see if there is any further update on these matters and update this blog post accordingly.
Japan is investigating reports two of its citizens were detained in Italy after allegedly attempting to take $134 billion worth of U.S. bonds over the border into Switzerland.
“Italian authorities are in the midst of the investigation, and haven’t yet confirmed the details, including whether they are Japanese citizens or not,” Takeshi Akamatsu, a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said by telephone today in Tokyo. “Our consulate in Milan is continuing efforts to confirm the reports.”
Source: Bloomberg
U.N. (UNESCO) Wants to Teach 5-Year Old Children How to Masturbate (Worst Story I've Read Today)
This is one of the sickest stories I have read in a long time. A report like this should have never been created. Why does the U.N. feel like it can teach a 5-year old child about sex and masturbation? This is a job for the child's parents or legal guardians. This is absolutely ridiculous! Someone from the U.N. should be required to answer for this report.
The actual 98-page U.N. Economic, Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) report can be read by clicking this sentence. The relevant pages are pages 26, 43 and 48. I have attached screencaps below.
Source: Fox News ; The UN Refugee Agency
The actual 98-page U.N. Economic, Social and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) report can be read by clicking this sentence. The relevant pages are pages 26, 43 and 48. I have attached screencaps below.
The UNESCO report, called "International Guidelines for Sexuality Education," separates children into four age groups: 5-to-8-year-olds, 9-to-12-year-olds, 12-to-15-year-olds and 15-to-18-year-olds.
Under the U.N.'s voluntary sex-ed regime, kids just 5-8 years old will be told that "touching and rubbing one's genitals is called masturbation" and that private parts "can feel pleasurable when touched by oneself."
Source: Fox News ; The UN Refugee Agency
Monday, August 31, 2009
WSJ: The Coming FDIC Bailout (As Predicted on Here Many Moons Ago)
Talk about being the last kid to finish the race. The Wall Street Journal is writing opinion articles where it discusses that the FDIC will need a bailout soon! The mainstream media is finally picking up on the fact that Sheila Bair's numbers do not make any sense and the FDIC will soon be asking for its bailout from the government.
I still want to know why Remixx World's calculations on August 21, 2009 show that the FDIC insurance fund was overdrawn by $5.55 billion, and when the FDIC briefed the public, it said that it had to raise $5.6 billion by charging emergency fees. Coincidence?
Now all of sudden, the FDIC suddenly has money, but yet it has not tapped any credit lines.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Rather than further soak capital from already weak banks, the FDIC ought to draw down at least $25 billion from its Treasury line of credit. Ms. Bair is going to have to ask for the cash sooner or latter, and she might as well do it before the fund hits zero and we get another round of even mild depositor anxiety. We suppose Congress could raise a faux fuss, but these are the same folks who ordered the FDIC to broaden the insurance limit. They need to face the political consequences of their promises.
I still want to know why Remixx World's calculations on August 21, 2009 show that the FDIC insurance fund was overdrawn by $5.55 billion, and when the FDIC briefed the public, it said that it had to raise $5.6 billion by charging emergency fees. Coincidence?
Now all of sudden, the FDIC suddenly has money, but yet it has not tapped any credit lines.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Toyota Prius = Worse For Mother Earth Environment Than Hummers & Cows? (Depletes Rare Earth Metals)
I am not a fan of the Prius car, so let me get that bias out of the way. I am in the minority, because many people love these cars. Any time I drive on the expressway I see these hybrid vehicles all over the place. Their owners are clueless that each Prius depletes valuable rare earth metals -- metals that may soon be gone forever.
I imagine that these Prius owners feel like they are doing great things for the environment, because they are using less petroleum and lowering their carbon footprint. Some of these same people don't like the fact that I ride around in a smog exempt 1975 van, because they feel like I am polluting more than my "fair" share. Mother Earth is the new religion in the 21st century!
The debate over man-made carbon dioxide increasing the earth's global temperature is still open for discussion. Volcanoes spew more carbon dioxide in one big blast than man could ever dream of spewing. The sun also has a much greater effect on our climate than some big Corvette driving Texan eating a 72oz ribeye steak at a rest stop. Instead of worrying about these minor things, why do the environmentalists fail to focus on the issues that do imperil the planet?
Widespread, untested genetic modification of seeds and animals. Heavy metal dumping in the oceans. Fluoridation of municipal water supplies. Experimental toxic vaccines. Or how about one that I rarely hear people talking about and that is the depletion of Mother Earth's rare earth metals.
Depletion of rare earth metals? Maybe you have not heard of this one, but I hadn't heard about this one until a few days ago when China pulled the plug on its rare earth metal export business of terbium, dysprosium, yttrium, thulium, and lutetium. I wonder why!
If you drive a Prius, then you are partially responsible for the depletion of rare earth metals. Repeat, you are responsible for the consumption of rare earth metals. Your Prius brings these rare metals closer and closer to extinction.
Think about that the next time you see a Prius on the road! I don't recall Hummers using pounds and pounds of an extremely valuable metal, because petroleum is quite plentiful when compared with neodymium and lanthanum! Instead of Saudi Arabia attempting to hold our economy hostage over petroleum, in the near future, it will be China holding our technological economy hostage over rare earth metals.
Source: Yahoo
I imagine that these Prius owners feel like they are doing great things for the environment, because they are using less petroleum and lowering their carbon footprint. Some of these same people don't like the fact that I ride around in a smog exempt 1975 van, because they feel like I am polluting more than my "fair" share. Mother Earth is the new religion in the 21st century!
The debate over man-made carbon dioxide increasing the earth's global temperature is still open for discussion. Volcanoes spew more carbon dioxide in one big blast than man could ever dream of spewing. The sun also has a much greater effect on our climate than some big Corvette driving Texan eating a 72oz ribeye steak at a rest stop. Instead of worrying about these minor things, why do the environmentalists fail to focus on the issues that do imperil the planet?
Widespread, untested genetic modification of seeds and animals. Heavy metal dumping in the oceans. Fluoridation of municipal water supplies. Experimental toxic vaccines. Or how about one that I rarely hear people talking about and that is the depletion of Mother Earth's rare earth metals.
Depletion of rare earth metals? Maybe you have not heard of this one, but I hadn't heard about this one until a few days ago when China pulled the plug on its rare earth metal export business of terbium, dysprosium, yttrium, thulium, and lutetium. I wonder why!
If you drive a Prius, then you are partially responsible for the depletion of rare earth metals. Repeat, you are responsible for the consumption of rare earth metals. Your Prius brings these rare metals closer and closer to extinction.
The Prius hybrid automobile is popular for its fuel efficiency, but its electric motor and battery guzzle rare earth metals, a little-known class of elements found in a wide range of gadgets and consumer goods.
That makes Toyota's market-leading gasoline-electric hybrid car and other similar vehicles vulnerable to a supply crunch predicted by experts as China, the world's dominant rare earths producer, limits exports while global demand swells...
Jack Lifton, an independent commodities consultant and strategic metals expert, calls the Prius "the biggest user of rare earths of any object in the world."
Each electric Prius motor requires 1 kilogram (2.2 lb) of neodymium, and each battery uses 10 to 15 kg (22-33 lb) of lanthanum. That number will nearly double under Toyota's plans to boost the car's fuel economy, he said.
Think about that the next time you see a Prius on the road! I don't recall Hummers using pounds and pounds of an extremely valuable metal, because petroleum is quite plentiful when compared with neodymium and lanthanum! Instead of Saudi Arabia attempting to hold our economy hostage over petroleum, in the near future, it will be China holding our technological economy hostage over rare earth metals.
Source: Yahoo
South Dakota Supreme Court Limits Police's Ability to Stop and Question Interstate Travelers (SD v. Haar)
The South Dakota highway riders of the world can rest a little easier now that its highest court has ruled on the police's ability to stop and question interstate travelers. In this case, the court considered the unique case of a vehicle search not made pursuant to a traffic stop, but while the owner Haar was being detained before entering his vehicle. The Court ruled against the police in this case saying that there was no basis for the initial detainment.
Here is a copy of the case South Dakota v. Haar.
Source: TheNewspaper.com
Haar denied having anything illegal and refused to consent to the search of his vehicle. Swets then told Haar that he was "free to go," even though the trooper was still blocking the Subaru. Swets simultaneously used a remote control to release a drug-sniffing dog from his patrol vehicle. The dog began sniffing the Subaru and found a large quantity of marijuana for which Haar was arrested and convicted. Haar appealed...
Swets freely admitted that the Subaru had committed no traffic violations, there were no signs of intoxication and there was no odor coming from the car. Instead, he found the cargo carrier, lack of luggage and the Illinois license plate to be highly suspicious.
"We fail to see... how a cargo box, the lack of visible luggage in a vehicle that had a cover designed to hide the luggage, and an out-of-state license plate on a vehicle in an interstate rest area provide any articulable basis upon which a reasonable person would have suspected that the Subaru was transporting illegal drugs," the court wrote.
Here is a copy of the case South Dakota v. Haar.
Source: TheNewspaper.com
New U.S. Air Force Commercial (It's Not Science Fiction, It's a Real Life Video Game)
The Air Force is doing its best to create a real life video game. Check out its latest commercial. No matter how bad a$$ you think your XBox 360 is, the Air Force was doing video games decades before kids picked up their first Nintendo controller. I remember Jeru The Damaja saying, "chips that power nuclear bombs, power my Sega" back on the Return of the Crooklyn Dodgers 95. You can check it here at 3:14.
Iowa Department of Health H1N1 "Swine Flu" Public Quarantine Order?
Is this a real document? I do not know, but I am posting so perhaps someone can tell me if it is. You can download the PDF at the CDC page by clicking this sentence. (**Update Nov. 23, 2009: previous link has been REMOVED at the CDC, but you can check to see if the CDC public health law H1N1 page has been updated. However, I have embedded a copy of the document below)
BEFORE THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
_____________________________
DIRECTED TO: ) [insert case #]
)
[insert full name and )
address of subject of order] )
FACILITY QUARANTINE ORDER
________________________________
The Iowa Department of Public Health (Department) has determined that you have had contact with a person with Novel Influenza A H1N1. Novel Influenza A H1N1 is a disease which is spread from person to person and is associated fever (greater than 100.0 F), cough, sore throat, rhinorrhea (runny nose), nasal congestion, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Novel Influenza A H1N1 presents a risk of serious harm to public health and if it spreads in the community severe public health consequences may result.
The Department has determined that it is necessary to quarantine your movement to a specific facility to prevent further spread of this disease. The Department has determined that quarantine in your home and other less restrictive alternatives are not acceptable because [insert the reason home quarantine is not acceptable, the person violated a previously issued home quarantine order, the person does not have an appropriate home setting conducive to home quarantine, etc.] The Department is therefore ordering you to comply with the following provisions during the entire period of quarantine:
1. Terms of confinement. You are ordered to remain at the quarantine facility, _________ [insert name and address of facility], from ________ to __________ [insert dates of quarantine].
2. Requirements during confinement. During the period of quarantine:
a. You must not leave the quarantine facility at any time unless you have received prior written authorization from the Department to do so.
b. You must not come into contact with anyone except the following persons:
(i) other persons who are also under similar quarantine order at the quarantine facility;
(ii) authorized healthcare providers and other staff at the quarantine facility;
(iii) authorized Department staff or other persons acting on behalf of the Department; and
(iv) such other persons as are authorized by the Department.
c. Your daily needs, including food, shelter, and medical care, will be provided for you during the period of quarantine at the quarantine facility. You should bring clothing, toiletries, and other personal items with you to the quarantine facility. You will have limited access to a telephone at the quarantine facility. You may bring your cell phone with you should you desire to have greater access to a means of communication.
d. You should inform your employer that you are under quarantine order and are not authorized to physically come to the work place, although you may work from the facility via electronic or other means if appropriate. You should be aware that Iowa law prohibits an employer from firing, demoting, or otherwise discriminating against an employee due to the compliance of an employee with a quarantine order issued by the Department. (Iowa Code section 139A.13A).
3. Information about Novel Influenza A H1N1. You should review the information contained at Attachment A for information about Novel Influenza A H1N1. You should refer to information provided at the quarantine facility to address specific concerns and questions you have about Novel Influenza A H1N1. In order to find out more information about Novel Influenza A H1N1 and its symptoms and spread, you may also access the Department’s web-page at www.idph.state.ia.us. If you do not have access to the internet from the quarantine facility, you may contact the Department at 1-800-362-2736.
4. Legal authority. This order is issued pursuant to the legal authority contained at Iowa Code chapters 135, 139A and 641 Iowa Administrative Code chapter 1, a copy of which is labeled Attachment B and is attached to this order for your review. The Department shall comply with the principles for quarantine contained in subrule 1.9(3) of this attachment when issuing and implementing this order.
5. Ensuring compliance. In order to ensure that you strictly comply with this Quarantine Order the Department or persons authorized by the Department may regularly inspect the quarantine facility.
6. Violations of order. If you fail to comply with this Quarantine Order you may be ordered to be quarantined in a more restrictive facility. In addition, failure to comply with this order is a simple misdemeanor for which you may be arrested, fined, and imprisoned. 7. Your rights B appeal rights. While under quarantine you have the rights as described in subrule 1.9(8) of Attachment B. In addition, you have the right to appeal this order pursuant to subrule 1.9(7) of Attachment B.
____________________
DIRECTOR or MEDICAL DIRECTOR
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Lucas State Office Building
Des Moines, IA 50319
Attachments to this Order: Attachment A -- Facts About Novel Influenza A H1N1
Attachment B -- 641 Iowa Administrative Code chapter 1
Source: CDC
DIRECTED TO: ) [insert case #]
)
[insert full name and )
address of subject of order] )
FACILITY QUARANTINE ORDER
________________________________
The Iowa Department of Public Health (Department) has determined that you have had contact with a person with Novel Influenza A H1N1. Novel Influenza A H1N1 is a disease which is spread from person to person and is associated fever (greater than 100.0 F), cough, sore throat, rhinorrhea (runny nose), nasal congestion, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Novel Influenza A H1N1 presents a risk of serious harm to public health and if it spreads in the community severe public health consequences may result.
The Department has determined that it is necessary to quarantine your movement to a specific facility to prevent further spread of this disease. The Department has determined that quarantine in your home and other less restrictive alternatives are not acceptable because [insert the reason home quarantine is not acceptable, the person violated a previously issued home quarantine order, the person does not have an appropriate home setting conducive to home quarantine, etc.] The Department is therefore ordering you to comply with the following provisions during the entire period of quarantine:
1. Terms of confinement. You are ordered to remain at the quarantine facility, _________ [insert name and address of facility], from ________ to __________ [insert dates of quarantine].
2. Requirements during confinement. During the period of quarantine:
a. You must not leave the quarantine facility at any time unless you have received prior written authorization from the Department to do so.
b. You must not come into contact with anyone except the following persons:
(i) other persons who are also under similar quarantine order at the quarantine facility;
(ii) authorized healthcare providers and other staff at the quarantine facility;
(iii) authorized Department staff or other persons acting on behalf of the Department; and
(iv) such other persons as are authorized by the Department.
c. Your daily needs, including food, shelter, and medical care, will be provided for you during the period of quarantine at the quarantine facility. You should bring clothing, toiletries, and other personal items with you to the quarantine facility. You will have limited access to a telephone at the quarantine facility. You may bring your cell phone with you should you desire to have greater access to a means of communication.
d. You should inform your employer that you are under quarantine order and are not authorized to physically come to the work place, although you may work from the facility via electronic or other means if appropriate. You should be aware that Iowa law prohibits an employer from firing, demoting, or otherwise discriminating against an employee due to the compliance of an employee with a quarantine order issued by the Department. (Iowa Code section 139A.13A).
3. Information about Novel Influenza A H1N1. You should review the information contained at Attachment A for information about Novel Influenza A H1N1. You should refer to information provided at the quarantine facility to address specific concerns and questions you have about Novel Influenza A H1N1. In order to find out more information about Novel Influenza A H1N1 and its symptoms and spread, you may also access the Department’s web-page at www.idph.state.ia.us. If you do not have access to the internet from the quarantine facility, you may contact the Department at 1-800-362-2736.
4. Legal authority. This order is issued pursuant to the legal authority contained at Iowa Code chapters 135, 139A and 641 Iowa Administrative Code chapter 1, a copy of which is labeled Attachment B and is attached to this order for your review. The Department shall comply with the principles for quarantine contained in subrule 1.9(3) of this attachment when issuing and implementing this order.
5. Ensuring compliance. In order to ensure that you strictly comply with this Quarantine Order the Department or persons authorized by the Department may regularly inspect the quarantine facility.
6. Violations of order. If you fail to comply with this Quarantine Order you may be ordered to be quarantined in a more restrictive facility. In addition, failure to comply with this order is a simple misdemeanor for which you may be arrested, fined, and imprisoned. 7. Your rights B appeal rights. While under quarantine you have the rights as described in subrule 1.9(8) of Attachment B. In addition, you have the right to appeal this order pursuant to subrule 1.9(7) of Attachment B.
____________________
DIRECTOR or MEDICAL DIRECTOR
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Lucas State Office Building
Des Moines, IA 50319
Attachments to this Order: Attachment A -- Facts About Novel Influenza A H1N1
Attachment B -- 641 Iowa Administrative Code chapter 1
Source: CDC
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Mass Burial at Sea for 74 MV Princess Ashika Victims
**UPDATE (February 23, 2010) - The below link may be dead or archived, but you can check this link from the Fiji Times which should be active.
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I have followed this story about the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika from the beginning, so I wanted to provide some closure on the story. May the seventy-four (74) victims of the MV Princess Ashika rest in peace.
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I have followed this story about the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika from the beginning, so I wanted to provide some closure on the story. May the seventy-four (74) victims of the MV Princess Ashika rest in peace.
A mass funeral ceremony at sea for the 74 people lost on the Princess Ashika on August 5, was held at midday yesterday, August 25, at the spot where the ferry sank, 11 nautical miles, south-west of Nomuka Island, in Tonga's Ha'apai Group, where about 500 people gathered on a flotilla of boats.
The mass burial at sea for the 72 who went down with the ship (only two bodies were recovered) was a dignified and emotional ceremony that recognised the great loss of the many families affected throughout Tonga.
Source: Matangi Tonga Online
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