OhMyGov! News with a pulse

Man suing prison system for not supplying enough food caught giving away meals

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 19:03:00 GMT

A Benton County, Arkansas inmate who filed a prisoner civil rights lawsuit in April in U.S. District Court claiming that he's losing too much weight was caught giving away his food. The complaint stated the jail doesn't provide enough food for inmates, but deputies witnessed Broderick Lloyd Laswell wrap a sandwich in toilet paper and attempt to slide it under a cell door, according to reports provided by Jail Capt. Hunter Petray.

Laswell reportedly weighed 413 pounds when arrested in September and in April weighed 308 pounds.

Wall of Shame: US Customs Agent arrested for smuggling in illegal immigrants

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 16:09:00 GMT

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents arrested fellow agent Jesus M. Huizar, 28, Tuesday on suspicion of conspiring to smuggle undocumented immigrants illegally into the United States.

Agent Huizar, a five-year veteran of the force, was allegedly paid $500 per immigrant smuggled into the county.

U.S. Officials believe Huizar has been smuggling illegal aliens into the country since 2005.

Cisco admits to selling fake routers to US military

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:49:00 GMT

Cisco admitted this week that its partners sold counterfeit Cisco products from China to the US military. The procurement creates a serious threat to military security, according to the FBI.

An FBI PowerPoint presentation leaked in April gave details of an FBI investigation into Cisco routers: "Operation Cisco Router". In the presentation, the FBI detailed how counterfeit Cisco goods from China had made their way into the US military supply chain.

The FBI presentation said part of the problem lies with government procurement practices, revealing that the government normally searches for the lowest prices for products. A counterfeit Cisco 1721 router costs $234, while the genuine version costs approximately $1,375.

Communications Director - New York Congressman

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:43:00 GMT

Active New York Democratic Member seeks Communications Director. Duties include planning and implementing an overarching press plan, planning weekly events, working with legislative and district staff to generate press stories and responding to all media inquiries. New York ties a plus.

Applicants should enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and should be entrepreneurial and aggressive in generating ideas. This is not an entry-level position: candidates must have relevant experience on the Hill or in the media. Salary commensurate with experience. Send cover letter and resume to Press.Opening@mail.house.gov.

Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band to Perform at the Pentagon

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:25:00 GMT

Oscar-nominated actor and director Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band will perform a concert in the Pentagon Courtyard Friday, May 16 at noon as part of Military Appreciation Month. We've heard rumors that part of the performance involves an idiot running onto the stage, picking up Lt. Dan, and heading straight to the Pentagon parking lot where his ass will be taken out by sharp shooters.

Worst parking tickets

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 15 May 2008 15:07:00 GMT

Communications Director - U.S. Congress

Bureau Pat — Thu, 15 May 2008 14:12:00 GMT

Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA) is seeking a Communications Director. Duties include developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy, including: writing press releases, floor statements and editorials; responding to press inquiries; producing newsletters and e-newsletters; proactively creating new media opportunities, fostering strong relationships with media contacts, and managing office website. A successful candidate will be an excellent writer with good interpersonal skills and a sense of humor. Minimum of 2-3 years experience required, this is not an entry level position. Salary commensurate with experience. E-mail cover letter, writing sample, and resume to Lisa Austin, Chief of Staff at: BairdResume@mail.house.gov

Dear Bureau Pat: How do I give a new employee a warm welcome?

Bureau Pat — Thu, 15 May 2008 14:07:00 GMT

Dear Bureau Pat,

I have a new staff member joining my team next week, what should I do to ensure a warm welcome?

Dear Welcome Wagon,

Were it the 1970's, I'd say welcome them in with a Bloody Mary, a pack of smokes, and a pair of huge sunglasses. But alas, those days are over, although the super shades have regrettably reemerged as fashionable masks.

In my experience, welcomes may vary from a surly hello and total immersion into work the first day, to a thoughtful card and a plant - just make sure they have an office near a window or you'll be perceived as a cruel prankster.

It doesn't take a consultant or a think tank to understand the value of effectively integrating new employees into the workplace. This integration should boost employee performance and possibly even minimize staff turnover, as employees are less likely to leave a welcoming environment.

First, ask yourself what does the new member need to be comfortable and do the job he/she was hired for? There is nothing worse than coming into a new office that is disheveled with no computer access, office supplies, chair, clean desk, or materials to read over in preparation for work.

To avoid this situation, the welcoming process really needs to begin once the person accepts the position. Supervisors should develop a notification system so that everyone from information technology to facilities maintenance can ensure new staff members have what they need to do the job when they arrive on the first day.

We can learn from our men and women in uniform here, as this is something the military does very well. Prior to a member going to a new assignment, they are handed a welcome package containing information about their job tasks and the local area so they can prepare for their first days at work. You can do the same.

In the packet of information, try to address the questions a new employee might have. The first is, where is everything? To answer this, include a map of the building's interior if available. If not, provide a one page descriptor of room numbers for important places like the bathroom, office supply room, kitchen, copy room, mail room, and various offices he/she may need to know about.

The packet should also include information about the division and office the new person belongs to. Nothing is worse that getting bossed around by a variety of people, only to find later you report to none of them. If the newcomer has management responsibilities, give them bios and position descriptions of the individuals they are managing as well as the "big rocks" being addressed by their staff. And make sure the person knows to whom he/she reports.

Each agency has a unique culture and often times, so does each office. Thus, it's important to inform the newcomer to these cultures. Are people hard-core environmentalists who'll be offended if you don't join their car pool? Does the staff all eat lunch together? Is teleworking encouraged or discouraged? Are the hours flexible? Is there a coffee or water club? Let the person know these things in advance so they don't make a bad first impression with the staff.

Once the new employee has been properly briefed, walk them around the facility to meet and greet others and get to know the building. Be adventurous and venture out of your row of cubicles and introduce them to others they will encounter periodically.

After he/she becomes settled at their desk and has time to read over materials, spend time with them. Go over the mission of the office and the agency, and walk them through the ongoing projects and tasks they should be aware of, even if they don't play an active role.

The first week, set performance expectations and ensure that the new hire starts doing meaningful work as soon as possible. Most people want to feel like they are contributing and not just being kept busy. It is your opportunity to set the tone for the work ahead.

It's also best for managers to provide initial training and give and solicit feedback during the first 90 days.

Remember, hiring someone is the first step. Keeping and retaining a good staff member is the real challenge and the first 90 days have a tremendous impact on that. If you follow my advice, the newcomer won't be huddled by a messy desk with no computer access being ignored and thinking: "Did I make the right decision? Should I have stayed at my last job? Are these people all nuts?

The Only,

Got a question for Bureau Pat?
Don't be shy; ask away by clicking here and sending us your question.

Iraq War documentary rings in convenient truths

Jeff Dubbin — Thu, 15 May 2008 12:50:00 GMT

PBS's documentary series Frontline has been on the air for 25 years, but only now is it reaching millions of viewers. Its newest installment, "Bush's War," commemorates five years at war in Iraq in almost five hours, with piercing documentation of The Bush Administration's military efforts. Beginning with the decision to invade Afghanistan and concluding with the Iraq troop surge, the program misses very little. It anchors the viewer in the events and decisions in between, while steadfastly maintaining a keen, backwards-looking, historical perspective.

"Bush's War" is a news story wrapped in a history lesson disguised as a summer blockbuster. Combining interviews of top governmental officials with first-hand footage of explosive military firefights, Frontline takes the viewer behind closed doors and enemy lines at the same time.

Meanwhile, the secret story is juxtaposed with the media coverage absorbed by the public, inviting viewers to challenge misinformed viewpoints. Tune in to see the clash of egos behind the outwardly monolithic Bush administration, portrayed with the panache of a character drama: Rumsfeld vs. Tenet, Rumsfeld vs. Rice, and Rumsfeld vs. Alien vs. Predator (a.k.a. the Guantanamo story).

Of particular note is the documentary's constant reminder of what success in Afghanistan and Iraq must look like through the mouths of former intelligence, military, and White House officials. In Afghanistan, victory means the surrender of Taliban forces who took up guerilla opposition when their government was toppled, and who (with Al-Qaeda aid) still kill US and allied soldiers. In Iraq, success means teaching Iraqis forces to keep the peace so that democracy can take root (the opposite of a troop surge that uses American troops to do what we are not trusting Iraqi forces to accomplish).

Before ending abruptly, the series falls just short of concluding that the surge's touted "clear, hold, build" strategy has become as much of a fossil as the "light footprint" strategy - the theory that troop presence and visibility should be minimized - of a year ago. Perhaps this is an effort to maintain objectivity. But only so much objectivity is possible when the preponderance of documentary evidence points definitively in one unhappy direction.

So why is this documentary so suddenly popular? Some, including the series' producers, have speculated that with the Iraq War's five year anniversary and the upcoming presidential election, the timing was perfect. Fair enough, but if timing alone was sufficient, then Comedy Central's Lil' Bush would be a smash success. (It isn't.)

Convenience is one thing, but hard-hitting honesty is what really makes a documentary resonate. "Bush's War" rehashes what sheer embarrassment has made us prone to forget-and with painstaking and unabashed clarity. Remember when we thought that the war in Afghanistan was won? Can you recite the "sixteen words" of Bush's 2003 State of the Union that ended up being false? Does the name "Joseph C. Wilson IV" ring a bell?

Whatever you recall, whatever you think you remember from the past seven years, it turns out that the truth is always different from the Frontline.

Government employees pitch ideas for improving government

Tarkan Rosenberg — Wed, 14 May 2008 14:21:00 GMT

Imagine being able to take an online career quiz that helps determine what federal jobs are perfectly suited to you. Then imagine the same system helping you locate agencies that hire for those particular positions. If Robyn Dingledine of Littleton, CO has anything to say about it, such an innovation would soon become a reality.

Dingledine was the lucky winner of last week's first annual FedPitch. As the winner, she will have dinner with the contest's judges-only one of whom is a government employee-to discuss the winning idea in more detail and explore approaches for possibly implementing the idea.

The event was organized by the Council for Excellence in Government and consisted of 20 finalists from across the country who gave 2-minute pitches on their ideas for improving workforce management in the federal government.

Huddled under a large canopy, participants and audience members braved the blazing heat on the National Mall to commemorate Public Service Awareness Week.

Among the myriad of ideas presented by the finalists were proposals for video training programs to let potential future government employees know "what they're getting into," as well as implementing ways to keep federal employees with security clearances from bailing to the private sector.

One idea, pitched by Elizabeth Cuda of Chicago, IL, sought to create federal "volunteer vacations" that would allow employees to take off as much as two weeks of paid time to volunteer for federally funded programs such as AmeriCorps. Another proposal of note included the creation of an interagency leadership exchange program-pitched by Sharon Gunselman of D.C.-that would help to enhance federal employees' "leadership development opportunities."

Jane Petkofsky of Arlington, VA felt government employees worked too hard. She pitched the idea that there needs to be a government-wide sabbatical program for long-time tenured employees that would allow them to take time off to "reconnect with what they love" and "recharge their creative juices." Most of us call this a vacation or a leave of absence Jane.

While the concept of FedPitch is admirable, at times, the event had the air of an office picnic or high school talent competition and contestants were often cheered by what appeared to be close friends and co-workers. Periodically, the proceedings were joyfully interrupted by people in fun costumes, like one woman who appeared from nowhere dressed as the Statue of Liberty. A large cartoonish, balloon-headed policeman also stopped by for a spell.

Perhaps the second FedPitch will yield improvements in executions and innovations. If nothing else, the audience of judges should be comprised of individuals with high-level government positions capable of quickly implementing a good idea. Otherwise the event is largely ceremonial.

Government has no strategy for confronting homegrown Islamic extremist groups

Jaime L. Hartman — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:55:00 GMT

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee released a report titled "Violent Islamic Extremism, the Internet and Home-Grown Terrorist Threat" this week, the first in a series to be issued jointly by the majority and minority staff. Among its findings is the disturbing conclusion that the federal government has "no cohesive and comprehensive outreach and communications strategy in place" to confront the growing threat of Internet-fueled homegrown Islamic extremist groups.

The study, put out the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs, examined al Qaeda's online media operation, finding that four production centers use cutting edge technology to produce online magazines, official statements, new updates, white papers, poetry and more. Content is then funneled to a clearinghouse before it is approved and posted on thousands of web sites on a daily basis.

The clearinghouse ensures the authenticity of the message and facilitates near-instantaneous dissemination of propaganda. These media products are quickly and accurately translated into English and openly marketed to Muslims in the United States. According to Charles Allen, chief intelligence officer and undersecretary for intelligence and analysis at the Department of Homeland Security, al Qaeda's objective in this effort is to "gain wide Muslim support, empathy, financing, and future recruits.

The growing sophistication of al Qaeda's Internet presence in the English-speaking world threatens to erode the cultural and community characteristics of the United States, particularly the integration of Muslims into overall American society, that have so far discouraged violent radicalization.

In February, Director of National Intelligence Mike McConnell testified about the growing threat of "homegrown" terrorists before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. McConnell said that while evidence suggested that the radical and violent segment of the Muslim population in the West was growing, the cells detected in the United States were much weaker than those in Europe and elsewhere overseas. He added the caveat that by using the Internet, these groups were very likely to become stronger and more sophisticated without a need to travel overseas for training.

The Senate report roundly criticized the government's current response and said "efforts that rely on relatively uncoordinated outreach to American-Muslim communities and fragmented communications strategies must be improved."

While Homeland Security's Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties does meet regularly with religious and ethnic community leaders in five major cities and to address the concerns of its participants, it does not communicate with the FBI. However, neither the Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties' program nor the FBI's outreach program, which has substantial contact with the same communities through its 56 field offices, is designed to counter violent Islamist ideology.

The most credible voices in isolating and rejecting violent Islamist ideology are those of Muslim community leaders, religious leaders, and other nongovernmental actors who must play a more visible and vocal role in discrediting and providing alternatives to violent Islamist ideology." In other words, the old adage about fighting fire with fire must be applied swiftly and ubiquitously.

Link to report here

Presidential Physical Fitness Award for adults introduced

Jaime L. Hartman — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:15:00 GMT

Sit-ups, pushups, a one and a half mile run, and the “sit-and-reach:” sound familiar? If so, you are probably one of the millions of American students who have taken the Presidential Physical Fitness Award test. Introduced in 1966, the test rewards those with the greatest fitness with the coveted prize of a certificate signed by the president.

Today, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports introduced an adult version of the test you can do yourself online. Unfortunately, there is no certificate for adults, but you can find out where you rank amongst others your age and chart your progress towards better health.

The test measures aerobic fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility and is designed for people 18 and older who are in good health. It also incorporates height and weight to calculate body mass index (BMI).

Melissa Johnson, the executive director of the council, said the development of the test is a response to scores of baby boomers asking whether there was a fitness test available today like the one they took as students.

It couldn’t come at a better time. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that nearly one-third of all adult Americans are obese (defined as a BMI greater than 30) and about two-thirds are overweight or obese (defined as a BMI greater than 25).

Over the last 40 years, the prevalence of overweight and obese Americans has steadily increased among all ages, sexes, races, and educational levels. In 1960, 44.8% of adult Americans fit the definition of overweight or obese. In 2004, that number had risen to 66%.

While we at OhMyGov! are often skeptical of taxpayer-funded programs aimed at curing society’s ills, we applaud this initiative as we all bear the burden of obesity. The NIH estimates that the annual costs of the epidemic are well above $100 million when direct health care expenditures and the indirect costs of lost wages and future productivity are considered. Undoubtedly, it will take more than an on-line fitness tracking program to shrink the nation’s waistline, but it’s a step in the right direction that just might motivate sedentary Americans to start exercising. After all, not everyone can become a contestant on NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

The online fitness tool, located at www.adultfitnesstest.com, complements an interactive eating plan based on the food pyramid developed by the Department of Agriculture. Mypyramid.gov allows visitors to enter dietary information and receive an online evaluation by comparing your actual intake to nutritional guidance. It also offers a menu planning component that aims to provide the kind of individualized guidance one would expect from a personal dietician.

Together, the Adult Fitness Test and Mypyramid.gov can level the playing field for average Americans who want to improve their health but can’t afford the services of a personal trainer or nutrition counseling.

Bureau Pat's Weekly Web Pick: The Social Security Administration's baby name database

Bureau Pat — Tue, 13 May 2008 14:07:00 GMT

If you're a future parent whose finished What to Expect When You're Expecting but haven't picked a name for your new arrival, you may want to puruse the Social Security Administration's popular baby names website. That's right, for those who think government websites are comprised of humdrum data sets organized by meandering links of indiscernible govspeak, prepare to be awed.

At www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames, you can find the most popular baby names for males and females for any year dating back to 1880. In 2007, the most popular names were Jacob, Michael, and Ethan for boys, and Emily, Isabella, and Emma for girls.

Apparently, Emily has topped the list since 1996 while Jacob has done so since 1999. And the name Elizabeth returned to the top ten after a two year absence.

In addition to a list of the 1,000 most popular boys’ and girls’ names for 2007, the website has a list of the top 100 names for twins born in 2007. Jacob and Joshua are again the most popular twin’s names.

Most Popular Names in 2007

For reasons unknown, SSA reported that American parents have recently become infatuated by names for boys that rhyme with the word “maiden.” These names include: Jayden (No. 18); Aiden (No. 27); Aidan (No. 54); Jaden (No. 76); Caden (No. 92); Kaden (No. 98); Ayden (No.102); Braden (No.156); Cayden (No.175); Jaiden (No.191); Kaiden (No. 220); and Aden (No. 264).

The Social Security Administration started compiling baby name lists in 1997 and grant users the ability to sort through names by decade, sex, and time period. Soon, the site will grant users the ability to search for name popularity by state.

So just what were the hot names of 1880? With a few clicks, the following list was created:

Ok, a few names may have lost favor with Americans, but for the most part, our tastes have remained fairly constant over the years. And weather you think the database is a nice to have resource or an example of government waste, the resource is publicly accessible, interesting, and easy to use. If only the same were true of all government sites...

N.Y. Senator calling for cameras on police handguns

Andrew B. Einhorn — Tue, 13 May 2008 12:48:00 GMT

State Senator Eric Adams, a Brooklyn Democrat and former police officer, is attempting to create support for an interesting, albeit expensive pilot program aimed at bringing transparency to court cases involving police shootings. The program would require digital cameras to be fixed to the handguns of police officers in New York so shooting events could be recorded and reviewed if the matter ever went to court as a wrongful death lawsuit.

Adams said the $695, five ounce cameras would be activated immediately after an officer's gun was drawn from his holster. About 60 minutes worth of data could be stored on the device and allegedly, none of the data could be altered by police officers. The images captured might also help identify suspects who get away.

"We believe the state of New York can lead the country," said Adams. "There no longer can be a question mark that lingers after shootings."

The senator is drumming up support for a pilot program that would allow testing by police at shooting ranges. State police are reviewing the technology, said Michael Balboni, the state's deputy secretary for public safety. If proved credible, the program would be tested and may ultimately lead to a state-wide mandate for the gun cameras - the nation's first.

In New York City alone, there are nearly 38,000 police officers. At the current cost, equipping the force with the gun cameras would cost nearly $26 million. That would equate to New York's most expensive photo shoot.

EPA moves closer to tackling climate change

Tarkan Rosenberg — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:40:00 GMT

The EPA's Office of Water hosted a live webcast last week to discuss a recently released draft strategy that aims to address the effects of climate change on the nation's water resources.

Jeff Peterson, an EPA scientist from the Office of Water, detailed some likely impacts of climate change in the coming century, stating that globally, average annual precipitation levels are expected to increase. In the United States this will mean that precipitation will increase in the Northeast and decrease in the Southwest. Snow seasons will shorten in duration and levels of snow depth will decrease, causing an early Spring runoff in many areas.

In terms of water impacts, this will likely mean that droughts will increase causing limited water availability in areas where rainfall is expected to decrease. Increasing rainfall will result in higher storm water runoffs that will greatly tax efforts to maintain low pollution standards in water bodies.

The webcast was intended to provide an overview of the draft strategy, which in addition to identifying climate change-related water issues, outlines possible response strategies. It also aimed to clarify the contents of the document for the public.

"The ideas and response actions outlined here are the product of a cooperative effort among EPA Water Program managers and national and regional offices," said Benjamin Grumbles, the Office of Water's Assistant Administrator.

"Climate change will have many diverse impacts," he continued, "including effects on human health, natural systems and the built environment. As we looked at the expected impacts of climate change, we found that a significant number of them relate to water resources."

Grumbles further stated that climate change can make itself felt on water resources in various ways, among them an increase in water pollution, more extreme storms and water events, as well as rises in sea levels, stronger storms and changes in ocean chemistry.

Grumbles' deputy assistant, Michael Shapiro, summarized a list of goals outlined in the draft strategy that aim to improve the National Water Program's responses to climate change. The first goal seeks to reduce greenhouse gases by, among other things, increasing energy efficiency at waste and drinking water facilities.

Shapiro said this can be accomplished by better adapting the water program to climate change. This would involve increasing program effectiveness by improving water safety standards and providing better infrastructure support.

"Adaptation is important," he said, " because even with a very successful effort to reduce greenhouse gases, the climate will continue to change and we will need to respond appropriately."

Other goals include creating a better link between EPA water programs and climate change research, providing outreach and education for water professionals and stakeholders, and building climate change into future budgeting and planning initiatives as well improving coordination with other federal agencies.

The panel concluded by taking questions from listeners, and once again urged members of the public, as well as federal employees and stakeholders, to submit their responses, concerns and questions regarding the draft strategy no later than May 27. The document as well as information on how to respond can be found at the Water Office's climate change website.

Letter to the Editor: Get that cop out of my handicap parking space!

Andrew B. Einhorn — Mon, 12 May 2008 13:57:00 GMT

To Whom It May Concern,

I’ve attached a picture of a State Police Vehicle Illegally parked in Quincy, MA [MA License Plate # 1768]. From what I hear, this officer illegally parks here all the time. As a person with a physical disability, I am appalled by this behavior. I struggle everyday to find parking spots and it would not be so difficult if people like this officer didn’t illegally park.

This is completely unacceptable and this officer should be immediately reprimanded. Please keep me posted on this issue.

Thank you,

Concerned Citizen

Dear Concerned Citizen:

Thank you for writing us. It's a shame when police officers feel they are above the law. It's even worse when their actions affect other citizens and public safety.

We will be sending your letter to the appropriate state representatives for Quincy listed below.

Rep. Stephen A. Tobin: Rep.AStephenTobin@hou.state.ma.us, 617-722-2783

Rep. Ronald Marino: Rep.RonaldMariano@hou.state.ma.us, 617-722-2220

Rep. Bruce Ayers: Rep.BruceAyers@hou.state.ma.us, 617-722-2230

If you or anyone else wishes, you can call the MA Office of the Inspector General and report the incident(s) at the following numbers: Office: 617-727-9140; Fax: 617-723-2334

Sincerely,

The OhMyGov! Team

Government Job Spotlight: USDA Food Inspector

Andrew B. Einhorn — Mon, 12 May 2008 13:19:00 GMT

The mission: to ensure that the American public has safe and correctly labeled food.

The stakes: life and death.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, food borne diseases are estimated to cause 6 million to 81 million illnesses and up to 9,000 deaths in the United States per year. With meat recalls and charges of humane handling violations in the news regularly, many would say there’s a crisis of confidence about our food. On the front lines of this crisis – whether real or perceived – is a law enforcement group within the United States Department of Agriculture charged with the seemingly impossible mission of protecting the American public health.

Food inspectors comprise the largest category of employees in the Food Safety and Inspection Agency under the United States Department of Agriculture, with over 7,500 nationwide. As a Food Inspector you will be providing the first line of defense by ensuring that regulated meat, poultry and egg product establishments produce safe products by executing appropriate inspection methods in privately owned meat or poultry slaughter and processing plants.

As a Federal official, you will be required to uphold the integrity of the regulatory process. You will acquire the skills necessary to balance industry desire for productivity against public right to protection against unsafe or inferior food products. Many careers are possible.

One career path for a food inspector is through the consumer safety inspector position. Consumer safety inspectors work in one or more privately owned meat, poultry, and egg processing plants. They ensure the plant is operating within its written plans for sanitation and processing. In addition, they conduct regulatory oversight activities inside the plants in matters relating to other areas of consumer protection like mislabeling.

Another career path for a food inspector is through the import inspector position. Import inspectors are stationed at ports and other points of entry to the United States. They make sure that products imported from other countries are as safe as those produced domestically.

To qualify for an entry-level position, you must pass a written test and have either a Bachelor’s degree or 1 year of job-related experience (in the food industry). This experience must demonstrate knowledge of sanitation practices and control measures used in the commercial handling and preparation of food products for human consumption. Qualifying experience should also demonstrate skill in applying, interpreting, and explaining standards in a food product environment.

To become an employee of one of the largest public health agencies in the U.S. Government, apply for positions on USA Jobs.

Shop for USDA T-shirts on OhMyGov!
Click any item below to view more like it.

. .

The Week's Best Late-night Jokes

Andrew B. Einhorn — Fri, 09 May 2008 19:03:00 GMT

"Hillary Clinton says she isn't dropping out because there are still six states that haven't had their Democratic primary. That's right. Barack Obama's favored in the states of Oregon, Montana and South Dakota, and Hillary is favored in the state of denial." --Conan O'Brien

"Former President Clinton gave a campaign speech for Hillary while standing on the back of a pickup truck. True. And like all the speeches Bill Clinton gives in the back of a pickup truck, it began, 'You have beautiful eyes.'" --Conan O'Brien

"Hey, you know who is getting married this weekend? One of the Bush sisters. Jenna Bush, is getting married this weekend at her father's place in Crawford, Texas. And this is no surprise: the $2 billion ice sculpture contract went to Halliburton." --David Letterman

"I guess it's neck and neck with Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. They've got a big primary tomorrow, and they're everywhere right now. Yesterday's entire 'Meet the Press' was devoted to Barack Obama, while the entire 'This Week with George Stephanopoulos' was devoted to Hillary Clinton. ... Meanwhile, John McCain spent the day watching a 'Golden Girls' marathon." --Conan O'Brien

Dear Bureau Pat: How can I reward exceptional performance?

Bureau Pat — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:36:00 GMT

Dear Bureau Pat:

I recently moved into a manager position and have had the fortune to work with some competent, some adept, and even some exceptional staff members. Recently, one of those exceptional staff members stepped up to execute with great outcomes a project that required extra hours and attention. I will definitely note this in her annual performance appraisal, but that is months away and I think she deserves recognition now. What can I do?

Dear Thoughtful:

While it may be fun to play bad cop and discipline employees, providing recognition for good work is the sign of a good manager. And, studies have shown that recognition is a key factor in employee satisfaction that correlates with higher employee retention, customer satisfaction, and productivity.

Federal managers often wait until the end of a cycle to show their appreciation. That being said, there’s no reason to avoid laying praise where it belongs, so long as standards for excellence are high enough. The last thing we all need is to hand out rewards for mediocrity – that’s best left to the Daytime Emmy’s.

Most agencies have a formal recognition program, not so ironically called the “Employee Recognition Program.” I suggest you look into your agency’s specific awards by networking with the human resources staff, since these types of awards (plaques, certificates, etc.) can be a key addition to one of your staff’s “love me” walls.

It is always nice to provide immediate recognition with a little cha-ching! Therefore, I first recommend the on-the-spot cash award. Most agencies divvy these funds up equitably between their work units and you may be limited on the amount of the award based on your budget.

Bureau Pat has seen awards that range from $25 to as high as $1,000. Yes, being a fed can treat your pocket well if you’re a strong performer with a good supervisor/manager. You can also give on-the-spot awards to employees in other offices. One caveat: those funds will come from your staff’s allocation. So be judicious, but don’t let that prevent you from recognizing truly exceptional performance even if it is not one of your own.

Other forms of recognition include a letter of recognition. Bureau Pat has used this on many occasions for external staff that went the extra mile for me or my staff. This is done by simply writing a well written memo to the member’s reporting chain that reflects the individual, their contributions and the positive outcomes. The tool provides concrete documentation of exceptional performance and gives the member visibility they may not typically receive.

Also don’t overlook the value of a simple complement, it goes a long way! Just make sure that compliment has no sexual overtones or your butt will end up in the EEO office.

The time you spend providing recognition will serve you and the organization ten-fold. Cash in the pocket and a pat on the back will keep your employees smiling and working hard…well, maybe not all of your employees, but certainly most of them.

The Only,

Porn ban proposed on military bases

Andrew B. Einhorn — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:14:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Paul Broun (R-GA) has decided to focus his efforts on an important issue plaguing the U.S. military: porn.

Recently, the distinguished gentleman from Georgia introduced legislation that would ban the sale of sexually explicit material on military bases by lowering the threshold required to deem material "sexually explicit."

Soldiers are up in arms about the proposal. Some say the ban is bad for morale; others claim they read the magazine for the stories and "new gadgets" featured inside. Due to the don't ask don't tell policy, there's no way to determine why.

Last year, a Department of Defense committee that reviews materials sold on bases ruled that magazines such as Playboy and Penthouse are not pornographic. But Broun's Military Honor and Decency Act includes language that could place those magazines in the sordid company of Barely Legal, Newcummers, and Screw, making them eligible for censorship.

Broun, a Marine veteran, told Newsweek recently that the magazines are partly responsible for a rise in sexual assaults in the military and other problems. On his website, Braun issued the following statement:

"Allowing the sale of pornography on military bases has harmed military men and women by: escalating the number of violent, sexual crimes; feeding a base addiction; eroding the family as the primary building block of society; and denigrating the moral standing of our troops both here and abroad."

One problem with Braun's proposal is that there's no evidence to support the theory behind it. If he wishes to be taken seriously, he should propose an experimental ban of these magazines on a few bases and compare the trends in sexual crimes on those bases to others in the future. Blanketing the military with a shroud of visual anorexia is not only reckless policy-making, it's arguably unconstitutional.

As one soldier stated: "They're making it a point of undermining soldiers to almost make them feel like we're back in elementary school," Pfc. Nickolas Sears said Friday at Camp Red Cloud, South Korea. "We're all adults here, and if it's something we want to do, we should feel free to choose as we please."

Others weren't quite as eloquent, but did convey their preference for access to Playboy and the like. "Playboy is good entertainment while you are on the can. They have jokes and good stories."

A few female soldiers and military spouses interviewed by Stars and Stripes support the ban, stating that while they don't mind the magazines, they think the ban would support an overall healthier lifestyle.

"It's a good idea," military spouse Roberta Woolley said of the proposed ban. "I think there's better literature out there.... In the military, we sell cigarettes and alcohol legally. But it's also questionable whether they promote a healthy lifestyle."

The debate over the ban is akin to one that circulated the life of Hustler publisher Larry Flint in the 1970's and early 1980's. Those opposed to Hustler Magazine sued Flint and his company in an attempt to have the pornography banned from being sold. Ultimately, free speech won and the magazine continued to be available. It seems then that history is in the midst of repeating itself on military bases. Maybe this time Elliot Spitzer will serve as the defense attorney.

This week's zeroes

Andrew B. Einhorn — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:40:00 GMT

1. Man creates science, science replaces God, EPA replaces science

The Environmental Protection Agency's top science adviser defended EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson for allowing more ozone pollution than the EPA's advisory panels recommended and for holding meetings with White House officials about pollution risks that are kept secret from Congress and the public.

George Gray, the EPA's assistant administrator for research and development and its science adviser, insisted the EPA's work is transparent even though it holds closed meetings with the White House Office of Management and Budget and other government agencies when it considers the risks from toxic chemicals.

The EPA administrator, Stephen Johnson, declined to testify.

The Union of Concerned Scientists surveyed EPA scientists last year and found that half of respondents said they'd experienced at least one incident of political interference in the past five years.

2.   Air Force drones on without drone

The Air Force was conducting a training in Ocala, Florida Tuesday using the UAV Raven, an unmanned spy drone, when the Raven immediately turned eastward and failed to respond to all commands from the controllers, Ocala police said.

The Raven, which has an approximate wingspan of 5 feet and a range of 6.2 miles, can fly automatically, navigating using GPS technology and programmable routes and target areas, or be remotely flown by the operator when necessary.

The $25,000 mini-spy plane landed at an unknown location. Air Force officials are seeking help in locating it.

3.   Congressman gives crash coarse of what not to do with your life

Rep. Vito Fossella of New York ran a red light drunk last week, got arrested for it, and admitted later to having an extramarital affair, and a child from that affair.

"My personal failings and imperfections have caused enormous pain to the people I love and I am truly sorry," said Fossella, a Republican from Staten Island who lives with his wife and three children.

As added salt in the wound, Fosella-the only Republican representing New York City-could very well lose his seat to a Democrat.

"He's politically dead. The only thing that hasn't happened is the autopsy report hasn't been written," said Doug Muzzio, a professor of politics at Baruch College in New York.

4.   Not enough people going Postal

Declining mail volume and rising fuel prices led to a $707 million loss for the Postal Service in the quarter that wrapped up March 31, the Associated Press reported yesterday.

The second-quarter loss more than offsets a profitable performance in the first quarter of the fiscal year, resulting in a loss of $35 million on revenue of $39.3 billion for the first half of the year, the post office reported.

The cost of sending a first-class letter will rise a penny to 42 cents on May 12.

This week's heroes

Andrew B. Einhorn — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:02:00 GMT

1. A New York State of mind

New York State Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno and members of the Senate Majority Republican Conference launched a new initiative to save taxpayer money, reduce government spending, and increase transparency in government operations.

The "Accountability in Government Spending" plan includes new Public Expenditure Reports for state agencies, performance-based budgeting requirements, a new public website initiative to allow New Yorkers to track the performance of government programs and submit ideas for reducing spending and stopping wasteful spending, and the goal of reducing spending by 3.35 percent (as directed by Governor Paterson).

"With millions of middle class families tightening their belts to overcome tough economic times, taxpayers have every right to demand that their government operates as openly and efficiently as possible," said Bruno. Amen Bruno.

2. A Congressional bill that makes cents

U.S. Representatives Zack Space (D-OH), Luis Gutierrez (D-IL), and Peter Roskam (R-IL) crafted and pushed a bill to change the metallic composition of the penny. It currently costs 1.7 cents to make the one-cent coin. The bill's sponsors, who were successful in getting the bill through the House yesterday, stated that by moving away from using copper in pennies, the U.S. Mint can save one billion dollars over the next decade.

"If we continue minting coins with the current metal content," Gutierrez said on the House floor this week, "with each new penny and nickel we issue, we will also be contributing to our national debt by almost as much as the coin is worth. These losses are mounting rapidly, and we need to act immediately to lower the costs of producing the penny and the nickel."

3. TSA blazing new trails

Transportation Security Agents implemented a new airport screening process at Chicago's Midway Airport that uses color-coded signs similar to those found on ski slopes to expedite the security screening process. The signs direct passengers to one of three lines: a green circle for beginners, a blue square for intermediate travelers and a black diamond for advanced passengers. Travelers pick the line that fits their experience level, or security workers direct them to the appropriate one after watching them fumble around with their sixteen security bins, shoes in mouth.

The experimental program aims to reduce frustration at security checkpoints and speed up the process, especially for those who can whip off their shoes and remove their laptops faster than Chris Mathews can say Hardball and without the annoyance of repetitive instruction. And by keeping passengers less angry, TSA agents will be better able to pick out passengers who exhibit signs of stress-an indicator of a potential threat to security.

"This is good stuff," said Clinton Booth of Atlanta, who was heading home from a Chicago business trip. "I've always preferred Midway to O'Hare because it's faster, but it's flowing even quicker now. I love it."

4. It's gotta be the shoes

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Los Angeles/Long Beach seaport seized 18,560 pairs of fake Nike athletic shoes and 252 pairs of generic shoes that were put at the tail of the container to conceal the counterfeit Nikes. Uncle Sam to Nike: never complain about paying taxes again!

FBI raids Office of Special Counsel

Andrew B. Einhorn — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:20:00 GMT

FBI agents Tuesday raided and temporarily shut down the offices of a federal watchdog agency charged with protecting the rights of government whistle-blowers that has been accused of retaliating against whistle-blowers in its own ranks.

The raid on the Office of Special Counsel and another at the home of its director, Scott Bloch, followed accusations that Bloch had destroyed evidence on government computers that might demonstrate wrongdoing.

He has been under investigation since 2005 by the inspector general of the Office of Personnel Management, after a complaint filed by some employees of the counsel's office.

Military health care program inadequacies revealed

Jaime L. Hartman — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:33:00 GMT

Abstracted for the WSJ - "After four years of providing care to military personnel, their families and retirees, I've had it.

The hassles of working with the Tricare program that covers health care for these people got the better of me. I've taken care of about 80 Tricare patients. But I won't be seeing them anymore.

I was one of a few physicians in the area to participate in Tricare. Patients sometimes came as far as 50 miles, bypassing several large hospitals and hundreds of other doctors who weren't in the network, to be seen in my small-town clinic.

One woman needed a colorectal surgeon because she had a fistula, an abnormal connection between her bowels and uterus. The specialized surgeons in our region weren't in the network, and the closest Tricare doctors who could help were in Indiana. She traveled out of state to get her problem fixed."

Spotlight: Lurita Doan, Administrator of the General Services Administration

Jaime L. Hartman — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:09:00 GMT

Lurita A. Doan served as Administrator of the General Services Administration for the past 22-months and survived pressure from Capitol Hill, investigations into potential Hatch Act violations, and allegations of interference in GSA contract negotiations. But according to multiple sources, a personal feud over whistleblower complaints with her agency's Inspector General (IG), Brian Miller, led to her ultimate demise.

Doan's early months at GSA were plagued by scandals. Over a year ago she was questioned by members of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee about reported efforts to award a sole-source contract to a personal friend as well as accusations that she was using her office for political purposes. Shortly after that the Office of Special Counsel ruled that she "should be disciplined to the fullest extent" for violating the Hatch Act, which limits political activity in federal agencies, by inviting a deputy of Karl Rove to speak at GSA. Lawmakers called on her to resign at that point, but the White House declined to get involved and so her profile was lowered.

That changed suddenly on April 29, 2008 when Doan was called to the White House for her first ever meeting with top administration officials. She was met by White House Chief of Staff Josh Bolton and Counsel Fred Fielding, who told her immediately that she was to resign.

Her accomplishments at GSA during a very short tenure were plentiful and impressive. She lead the largest reorganization in the history of the agency, culminating in the creation of the Federal Acquisition Service, without letting go of any employees to buyouts of Reduction in Force (RIF) actions. The agency advanced an expansive telework agenda. And she was aggressive about spending controls across the board. As one example, the Office of Assisted Services has gone from losing millions of dollars to now breaking even.

Doan took an unconventional approach to her role. At a recent dinner sponsored by a contractor trade group, she appeared on stage with arrows sticking out of her head, shoulders, arms, and legs, and used the arrows to illustrate the shots she had been taking from the media, Congress, and "others who represented the status quo."

Presumably, one of those "others" was IG Brian Miller, who she argued was retaliating against her for attempting to cut his budget and impose tighter oversight on his office.

Whistleblower complaints filed with the President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency (PCIE) last year by four former IG attorneys alleged that Miller and former Deputy Inspector General Robert Samuels misused agency resources and abused their authority in order to retaliate against career employees who disagreed with their decisions. The PCIE dismissed the complaints in February, classifying them as an "internal dispute." Doan spoke publicly about the decision, saying that it "confirms the suspicions of many that the PCIE...exists only as a fig leaf to provide the illusion of oversight of IG misconduct, but, in fact, its real purpose is to whitewash any wrongdoing, avoid responsible action and ensure a blind eye to IG misconduct."

Last month, the Corporation for National and Community Service, who had agreed to review the case, said it found no wrongdoing by Miller or Samuels. Doan still refused to drop the issue, saying she would stay on the issue "like a dog on a bone" until she was sure GSA did not "harbor or tolerate behavior that creates a hostile workplace." Just days later, she was called in to the White House and told her immediate resignation was expected.