Sen. Lee Introduces Aviation Empowerment Act
WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Aviation Empowerment Act Thursday, a measure intended to address the outdated rules and regulations of the FAA which stifle innovation within the general aviation sector.
“Innovation is key to competition and accessibility,” Sen. Lee said. “The growing record of aviation cost-sharing services in other countries shows they can be safe and effective. It is past time we enable such services in our country."
Specifically, the Aviation Empowerment Act reverses the FAA’s ban on online flight-sharing platforms by allowing a pilot who wants to share flight expenses to communicate with the public regarding an aircraft flight in any manner the pilot determines appropriate. It would also modify the prohibition on private pilot compensation by creating a new “personal operator” category, which would allow a pilot who has a private pilot certificate to: 1) receive compensation for flying persons or property and 2) not be subject to certain commercial airliner operation regulations as long as that private pilot only flies an aircraft with 8 or fewer seats.
You can read the full text of the bill here.
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• Microrobots
Two types of microrobots, one working on surfaces and the other in confined spaces, are able to destroy biofilms, sticky amalgamations of bacteria. Such microrobots have a wide variety of potential applications, including removing dental plaque and reducing the risk of tooth decay. “Treating biofilms that occur on teeth requires a great deal of manual labor, both on the part of the consumer and the professional,” says Edward Steager of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science, who led the study with Hyun (Michel) Koo of Penn’s School of Dental Medicine. “We hope to improve treatment options as well as reduce the difficulty of care.” (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Keto diet
Despite the buzz about the little-to-no-carb, high-fat keto diet, there haven’t been randomized clinical studies to determine if it is effective in the long term. Most studies to date have been smaller scale and highlight both positives and negatives. “We often don’t have a lot of data to guide us on the positive or negative effects, so I am cautious to say this is the right thing to do and not the right thing to do. I think that diet is important, and I have a personal interest in many of these approaches to nutrition, but what I share with patients is mostly my informed opinion based on as much science as possible,” said Neel Chokshi of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Family leave
The idea of paid parental or family leave in the U.S. appears to be gaining momentum in both major political parties. “I think what’s in the air is a larger conversation about gender inequality,” said Stephanie Creary of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. “By making gender inequality also about parents, it has allowed more people, including men, to champion this issue.” (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Doctors & patients
A new study shows that first-year doctors spend 87% of their work days away from patients, half of it interacting with electronic health records. “This objective look at how interns spend their time during the work day reveals a previously hidden picture of how young physicians are trained and the reality of medical practice today,” Krisda Chaiyachati of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. “Our study can help residency program leaders take stock of what their interns are doing and consider whether the time and processes are right for developing the physicians we need tomorrow.” (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Predicting hernias
A new app can predict the likelihood that a patient will develop an incisional hernia following abdominal surgery, a problem that affects one out of every eight of these surgical patients. Researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania used electronic health records to identify the most common risk factors for patients, as well as which surgeries most commonly result in incisional hernias. “Our tool presents the risk for each case at the point of care, giving surgeons and patients the chance to consider this outcome ahead of time and incorporate data into the decision-making process,” John P. Fischer said. (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Oral care & cancer
For cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy, intensive oral cleanings may help reduce oral mucositis, a potentially debilitating side effect of cancer care. “It can affect the tongue, the throat, even the intestinal tract,” said Patricia Corby of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, “and it’s a disaster. Severe cases place patients at risk for secondary infections and even sepsis due to open sores in the mouth. Sometimes it interrupts cancer treatment, and in the worst cases treatment can’t continue.” (EDITORS: Additional information)
• Gene editing
Gene editing may be able to treat lethal lung diseases before birth in the future. Researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia have thwarted a lethal lung disease in a mouse model, in which a genetic mutation causes death within hours after birth. The researchers are hoping to apply gene editing to lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, surfactant protein deficiency, and alpha-1 antitrypsin. (EDITORS: Additional information)
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Dear Editor:
Please consider this emotive and persuasive piece by freshly minted (congratulations!) Dr. Wim Laven. For PeaceVoice, thank you,
Tom Hastings
~~~~~~~
Tired of the Smack Talk
by Wim Laven
543 words
I’m angry, our system is supposed to work for us, but it doesn’t! I’m tired of being told that elected officials are supposed to represent their constituents, and watching their persistent inaction and failure. One of the interesting features of English language is the labels that are provided for groups of animals; perhaps the pride of lions or murder of crows are familiar to you. Few know that a group of jellyfish are called a smack. Sadly, so many American politicians are spineless, my comparison is the best I can do to capture my moral outrage at their immoral inaction.
Donald Trump’s 10,000thlie or misstatement as President or candidate is now official and his base is still with him. He is the Pied Piper of all variety of cowards and manifestly willfully ignorant blind-to-truth followers.
The ugly truth, since his base is quite large, is that we did this to ourselves. Too lazy to factcheck, too sloppy to discern truth, and too arrogant to find ways to work together, the U.S. was ripe for the invasion of the Russian troll army, and supremacist chatrooms celebrate discussions of civil wars and other Trump-approved disgusting plots.
But it gets worse. Every year I’m reminded of these ugly failures. Those who survived the Columbine shooting 20 years ago apologized to those who survived the Parkland shooting, they were sorry that they were unable to prevent the massacre. So much violence, the last time the U.S. went a week without a mass-shooting was Jan. 5, 2014, we’re the only nation on Earth with the problem, and the only place that insists it is unavoidable.
When my brother died on April 25th, 2013, there had been 57 separate votes to repeal Obamacare and zero votes to improve it. Deep down I wonder if quality health care, like most developed nations have, would have changed the outcome; how many lives have been cut short by inferior health care? Maybe his treatment pathways could not be improved upon, but 33 was just too young. Sad fact—six years later—still nothing has been done to improve healthcare coverage for millions who need it—some needing basic coverage and some requiring but denied specialty help. And there have been more unsuccessful votes to repeal, but nothing to improve. The smack, as a whole, is doing nothing to prevent the efforts to sabotage and undermine American survival and quality of life.
Our President is unrelentingly dishonest and where is the challenge to him amongst federal elected officials, apart from a handful of newly elected young activist representatives and a few determined House committee chairs?
The President has sworn he “will to the best of his ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” Add that to the 10,000. Moral representatives should have impeached this liar-in-chief 8,000 falsehoods ago. The talk of the day—high crimes and misdemeanors—focuses on the documented attack on U.S. democracy; all of our bodies of intelligence services have said Russia attacked us, from day one, but instead of honoring his oath Trump has done nothing but lie about it. The abdication of his oath of office has inspired little response. Lip service—smack talk—has delivered nothing—it’s time for backbone and heart.
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Wim Laven, Ph.D., is syndicated by PeaceVoice, and is an instructor of Political Science and International Relations at Kennesaw State University.
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hy Graduates Who Want a Career Full of Travel and Adventure
Should Consider the US Department of State Foreign Service
(and Eight Skills and Habits to Help Them Thrive)
Listen up, new grads: If you want a career made up of thrilling adventure, travel, nonstop learning, and even a little danger, the Foreign Service may be the place for you. Vella Mbenna, a 26-year veteran, shares the habits you should master to excel in one of the most exciting jobs around.
Amelia Island, FL (May 2019)—Now that graduation is finally here, you may be dreaming of finding a job that encompasses everything you want in a career: adventure, travel, challenge, growth, risk, and reward. The problem is, most jobs come up short in these areas. But if you're determined to do meaningful work that's full of excitement, the Foreign Service may be the right place for you.
For those who may not know, the Foreign Service is the corps of employees dedicated to representing America abroad and responding to the needs of American citizens living and traveling around the world. While not everyone is cut out for this line of work, says Vella Mbenna—who worked in the Foreign Service for 26 years—it is a great job opportunity for ambitious new graduates.
"Being a diplomat with the US Department of State demands intellect, courage, and a sense of adventure—not to mention an unshakable work ethic," says Mbenna, author of Muddy Roads Blue Skies: My Journey to the Foreign Service, from the Rural South to Tanzania and Beyond (Muddy Roads Press, 2019, ISBN: 978-1-7327918-0-0, $16.99). "If this describes you, you may have what it takes to join the ranks of hardworking citizens making a difference in our global society."
But make no mistake: Jobs in the Foreign Service are not easy to come by.
"In my opinion, they are one of the hardest government positions to obtain," says Mbenna. "And once you're doing the work, you'll be challenged daily to push yourself and find out what you're truly made of. You must have the right mindset and the right skill set—and acquiring them is absolutely worth it."
Early in her life, Mbenna never suspected that she would someday work as a US diplomat with the Foreign Service. After getting her college degree, she wound up back in her hometown in rural Georgia with a young child and few career prospects. But staying put was not an option. Her wanderlust prompted her to apply for a position with the US Department of State, where she eventually became an information management officer (IMO) in charge of information technology (IT) and communications, working in places like Beirut, Uganda, and Tunisia.
There, among her primarily "male, white, Yale" colleagues, Mbenna (a minority three times over: black, Southern, and female) started the long journey to the top. Despite facing instances of insubordination, racism, sexism, and culture shaming, Mbenna worked her way up to level "01," the highest-grade level you can earn in the Foreign Service—provided there is no desire to hang around for some years to see if you will be selected to join the cadre of senior, policy-level foreign affairs professionals.
For a self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie, the challenges, victories, and even the near misses Mbenna experienced were the very definition of a fulfilling career. Part memoir and part how-to success guide, Muddy Roads Blue Skies tells the remarkable story of Mbenna's journey from the backwoods of Georgia to the far reaches of the globe.
If you're ready to graduate and may be interested in a career in the Foreign Service, here are the skills and behaviors Mbenna says you should turn into habits right now:
Do the work—and more. Dutifully do your work every day, and do it well. And when your work is done, see if you can help someone else with theirs. Mbenna routinely went above and beyond throughout her career, including her courageous efforts in the aftermath of the 1998 bombing of the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam. Her contributions during this dangerous time even earned her a Heroism Award from the Department of State.
"My mother's 'hard work from dawn to dusk' mandate, which I was raised with, shaped my professional work ethic," says Mbenna. "The good news is, anyone can learn this skill with enough perseverance. Challenge yourself daily to not just show up for your work—whatever it may be—but come with a contagiously positive attitude that shows your gratefulness for the type of work you do. Rise to the occasion consistently, and soon it will become second nature, and people will take notice."
Find a role model/mentor. Develop trusting relationships with colleagues—in the field or not—who can help guide and develop you in your career. Think of someone you admire whom you could learn from and ask them if they will offer you career guidance. The Department of State also has an excellent formal mentor program, which Mbenna highly recommends newer diplomats take full advantage of.
Don't be afraid to share ideas. "Never sit around the table during meetings thinking you are too low in rank or too ignorant of the subject matter to contribute," says Mbenna. "You would not be there if you did not have something to contribute. Meetings are the ideal time for discussing ideas; come prepared with at least one or two ideas or questions, and then communicate them. Around mid-career, I became tired of sitting in meetings and rarely contributing. So, my motto became: 'If you think it, share it.' It paid off for me, and it will for you too."
Respect the chain of command. "I do not believe any leader wants to be second-guessed or challenged by a subordinate, especially not in public," says Mbenna. "The leader is the leader for a reason. Respect the chain of command and insist on it regardless of whether you are the leader, the second-in-command, or the follower.
"Overstepping boundaries without being invited to, especially if it is not your project or post, makes for a rough ride and stressful work environment for the entire team," she continues. "As someone who has served as a leader and follower in my career, I can confirm that the chain of command works when everyone follows it."
Be strategic. Don't leave your career up to chance, advises Mbenna. Think carefully about the path you would like to take, then plan your career trajectory accordingly. Keep in mind that every position and grade level you attain are stepping stones to the next one, so be on the lookout for opportunities to learn and develop while whole-heartedly contributing to the mission. Finally, remember that new skills can qualify you for more advanced positions, so seize every chance to acquire them.
Know when to lead and when to follow. The higher you climb in the Foreign Service (and in most other fields), the more leadership responsibilities you will have. Still, different positions require you to serve in different capacities. Sometimes you will be asked to lead, and other times you will be asked to follow. Learn to do both with ease—and be aware of when either is appropriate—and you will be more valuable to your team and organization.
"After having been a leader in previous roles, I accepted a position on a 'hardship' tour in Kabul, Afghanistan," says Mbenna. "I went in knowing and accepting that this time I would be a follower, and I became a good one because of that mindset. I did what I was supposed to do, and I did it as specified with a smile. Keep in mind that whether you're a follower or a leader, your work counts. Whatever role you find yourself in, it matters, so be sure to make it work for you."
Be dedicated/be useful, even in bad conditions. Learn to stay on task even during chaotic times (whether the chaos is work-related or personal). Mbenna's last Foreign Service assignment was in Tunis, Tunisia, several years after the uprisings of the Arab Spring. Even though the turmoil had resulted in staff reduction and a revolving door of temporary staff at the embassy, Mbenna never stopped working and striving to uphold her responsibilities—not even when a broken leg forced her to work from a hotel and home for several weeks while she recovered.
"Don't hesitate to do more than your specific duties in calm and chaotic periods," says Mbenna. "Pitch in and help others, even if they do not ask. If they do not need your help, they will tell you. You'll never regret going the extra mile, because eventually it will pay off for you, even if it only brings a smile to your face or a good memory years later when telling your Foreign Service story."
Know when to leave. "When it's time to leave the Foreign Service, you will know it," says Mbenna. "This comes at a different time for everyone. It could be a few years into your career, or you may stay until you reach the mandatory retirement age of 65. You might start feeling restless, unsatisfied, or unhappy at work; or missing your family and friends so much that it distracts you from your duties; or simply realizing that you're ready for your next adventure. Regardless of what it is, pack your bags and leave before you are burned-out or forced to leave. I reached my desired rank and left on my own terms, and what a happy feeling that was!"
"If you want to succeed in a high-stakes work environment like the Foreign Service, you'd better be ready to put your heart and soul into it," concludes Mbenna. "Be ready to work hard and go all in, and from there the experience acquired and skills you are sharpening each day will help you truly excel. Yes, there are easier careers out there, but few are as rewarding or exhilarating. So if you want it, dig deep into who you are, find your greatness, and let it shine every day."
# # #
About the Author:
Vella Mbenna is the author of Muddy Roads Blue Skies: My Journey to the Foreign Service, from the Rural South to Tanzania and Beyond. She was born in the Holmestown community of Midway, Georgia, where she grew up with eight siblings and parents who instilled in her the important values that would set her on the path to success. Throughout her youth, Vella dreamed of escaping small-town USA and traveling the world. In 1989, that dream came true when she was offered a position with the US Department of State Foreign Service. During her highly successful 26-year career as a diplomat, Vella served with honor in 13 foreign countries as well as two tours in Washington, DC.
For more information, please visit vellambenna.com.
She can also be found on:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/vellambenna/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Muddy-Roads-Blue-Skies-230262701234427/
Twitter @VMbenna
About the Book:
Muddy Roads Blue Skies: My Journey to the Foreign Service, from the Rural South to Tanzania and Beyond (Muddy Roads Press, 2019, ISBN: 978-1-7327918-0-0, $16.99) is available from major online booksellers. It is also available in ebook and audiobook format.
