Friday, April 20, 2007

Abstinence versus The Healthy Penis

The results of a US government sponsored study on abstinence-only education were recently revealed. The results may not surprise you--it doesn't appear to work. Abstinence-only policies have been a cornerstone of current domestic and foreign health-related programs, at significant financial cost. A funny and fascinating contrast to this failed health promotion strategy is the Healthy Penis campaign. This public health multimedia initiative has evidence to back up its successes and is quite a contrast to bland abstinence-only lectures.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Pur vida...

It is difficult to pick a single picture to capture the ecohaven country of Costa Rica. I was fortunate enough to spend some there in February. It is a fascinating country in many respects, even outside of its stunning natural wonders. In fact, its politics (democratic and peaceful), lack of standing army, and relatively prosperity only add to the delight of it beaches, cloud forests, and people. However, no paradise is immune from the 3 R's: real estate, "retirement", and riches, and the battle for the heart, soul, and property of Costa Rica is well underway.

Photo: The still active Volcan Arenal in Costa Rica, taken February 2007.