Should We Tax Coke and Pepsi?

New York State is proposing to levy a hefty tax on soft drinks. There is evidence that the consumption of sugary drinks is a significant cause of obesity and resulting costly health problems. The theory is that imposing a tax will lower consumption, the same way high tobacco taxes seem to have reduced smoking. Read a summary article here.

New Findings About RNA Revolutionize Genetics

Research shows that RNA "once considered a mere messenger boy for DNA actually helps to run the show". There turn out to be many types of RNA, some of which do not perform the usual task of translating DNA instructions into proteins, but instead directly activate genes and direct protein production. Hopes are high that the research could lead to disease therapies. Read the whole article here. To see a graphic representation, click here.

What's Happening in Somalia?

Somalia has been one of the world's trouble spots for many years (recall the Black Hawk down incident of 1993) Now it is back in the news as the home of the pirates now infesting the Indian Ocean. For a summary of the current political crisis in Somalia check this link. For an excellent collection of Somalia information see this New York Times page.

The Butter Tart Tour

It would seem that we at CCVI are living close to the Butter Tart centre of the world without knowing it. The Toronto Star has outlined a tour of northern Wellington County that will take you past some of the countries best tarts. Click here for a map of the Trail. A great way to see some our local area from a gastronomical viewpoint.