Happy news about Cheyenne Wright

I want to note that Cheyenne Wright is apparently coming home from the hospital. The Foglios report that he had a virus that imitates the symptoms of congestive heart failure. (How's that for freaky?) They're still working on a fundraiser to help him with bills (see link above for more info). I'm going to be making a contribution when I get my paycheck this weekend. Who's with me?

Random bits of interest

Astronaut on the air: davidlevine appeared on AM Northwest in Portland, OR this morning, talking about his trip to Mars. It's a great piece--check it out.

KUOW, the local NPR affiliate, starts their volunteer sign-up for the spring pledge drive on March 1--that's Monday. I'll be signing up. If you're interested in signing up, too, keep an eye on the KUOW volunteer page. Hope I'll have some company.

Woodland Park Zoo is preparing for its annual distribution of Zoo Doo, "exotic" compost provided by the zoo's inmates, as a part of the Spring Fecal Fest--yes, that's what they call it. Makes me wish I had a garden of my own to enrich. Looks like you need to toss your info over to them to get in the queue to purchase the stuff.

And speaking of the Zoo, this is the last week to see the nocturnal animals exhibit, which closes forever on Monday due to budgetary challenges. Some animals will be sent to other zoos; some will be rehoused elsewhere at WPZ. But don't despair--meerkats are coming in May!

Paul Krugman expresses much better than I can exactly how I feel about what went down yesterday in the President's health car summit and what should happen, in short: Democrats should enact health care reform--now--with or without the Repbulicans. It's past time.