Writing about the border for the Borderbeat website is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences that the University of Arizona's journalism program has to offer.
Upon arriving for the first day of class the workload looks daunting, but after a few weeks students seem to find their groove and the quality of writing definitely improves.
The first question I get asked when someone hears that I am in border beat is: "How often do you have to goto the border?" The answer is as much or as little as you would like. Writing about border issues doesn't mean that you have to make constant trips to Mexico or Nogales.
In my opinion, the most challenging part of the course is writing good, insightful and on topic blogs about health issues along the border; not because there aren't a lot of news worthy topics, but because you concentrate on your stories throughout the week and when the weekend comes sometimes you scrape together sources and end up with nothing except a blank screen on blogger and a few quotes.
In order to do good blogs a student should work throughout the week on their story and take their time writing it. Also, make sure you take reporting public affairs a different semester than your senior capstone. It is extremely hard to work on three, sometimes four stories in one week. Sources start becoming mixed up and stories seem to mesh together and, of course, the quality of writing suffers.
The professor of borderbeat, Jay Rochlin, does a great job teaching the course and isn't afraid to tell you when the work is good or bad. The website design is easy to navigate and the story list functions make sifting through the stories easy for editors. My favorite part of the course was the All Souls Procession special report. Writing about something that interesting and taking probably the best pictures I have ever shot was a rewarding experience.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Border region lacks health care insurance
The U.S.-Mexico border region has the highest uninsurance rates than any other part of the country. Those in need of health care are increasingly burdened by the hurdles that await them from the United States health care system.
Hospitals and health facilities depend on patient's health insurance coverage to reimburse their medical expenses. Two primary reasons the region lacks coverage are preexisting medical conditions and low incomes.
Major private health insurance companies like Cigna, Blue Cross and Humana require patients to undergo examinations and check potential client's medical history thoroughly before any type of coverage is provided. People suffering from diabetes, obesity and other health ailments are almost always denied.
Those living without insurance risk financial disaster if a health catastrophe occurs with themselves or a child. Medical bankruptcy is a problem affecting more Americans every year.
With no surgery, the cost of major surgery is nearly impossible to afford with the average Hispanics income in the region (roughly $15,000). This leaves those in need with few solutions in a desperate time.
Medical services should be provided to patients, but when do hospitals step in and put finances over providing health services? Billions of dollars are owed to hospitals due to uncompensated care in the United States.
In 2004, more than $40 billion is the estimated cost of uncompensated care. There are a lot of questions and few answers for fixing the U.S. health care system.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2000 nearly 30 percent of inhabitants living in U.S. border counties lacked health insurance.
There are 45 million people, nearly a third of all Americans, living without health insurance, according to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group.
A thorough examination of the health problems in the region: United States-Mexico Border Health Access: Challenges and Opportunities
Hospitals and health facilities depend on patient's health insurance coverage to reimburse their medical expenses. Two primary reasons the region lacks coverage are preexisting medical conditions and low incomes.
Major private health insurance companies like Cigna, Blue Cross and Humana require patients to undergo examinations and check potential client's medical history thoroughly before any type of coverage is provided. People suffering from diabetes, obesity and other health ailments are almost always denied.
Those living without insurance risk financial disaster if a health catastrophe occurs with themselves or a child. Medical bankruptcy is a problem affecting more Americans every year.
With no surgery, the cost of major surgery is nearly impossible to afford with the average Hispanics income in the region (roughly $15,000). This leaves those in need with few solutions in a desperate time.
Medical services should be provided to patients, but when do hospitals step in and put finances over providing health services? Billions of dollars are owed to hospitals due to uncompensated care in the United States.
In 2004, more than $40 billion is the estimated cost of uncompensated care. There are a lot of questions and few answers for fixing the U.S. health care system.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2000 nearly 30 percent of inhabitants living in U.S. border counties lacked health insurance.
There are 45 million people, nearly a third of all Americans, living without health insurance, according to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group.
A thorough examination of the health problems in the region: United States-Mexico Border Health Access: Challenges and Opportunities
Monday, November 12, 2007
Migrants at increased risk for HIV/AIDS
Low-wage migrant workers who are employed in a host of U.S. industries are at an estimated 10 times the national average of contracting human immunodeficiency virus or AIDS.
Nearly 5 percent of farmworkers are infected with the virus. When compared to the national average of 0.6 percent it is clear that the workforce many take for granted is suffering at a much higher rate.
Not all migrants come from Mexico, others come from Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Asian countries. Because many do not speak English, the language barrier makes it harder to develop and implement effect HIV prevention programs to target the population.
Several of the major risk factors plaguing this population are sexual cultural taboos (not using proper contraception), needle sharing, poverty and racial issues. As well, access to health care is extremely as many migrants work in industries where employers do not offer health insurance.
Some migrants fear contact with government agencies because of deportation worries or past prosecutions. Therefore many do not receive government sponsored health programs such as Medicaid.
Poverty is also a stranglehold on the life of a migrant worker. The average income is roughly $10,500 according to the U.S. Commission of Agricultural Workers.
Here are the raw numbers according to the UNIDOS Network of Capacity Building Assistance Providers: "Hispanics, who comprise 14 percent of the U.S. population, account for 19.8 percent of all HIV/AIDS cases among adult males, 19.2 percent of all cases among adult females and 21.6 percent of all pediatric cases."
Education on ways to prevent the spread and contraction of HIV is the most successful way to the increasing amount of AIDS cases in the migrant population. Due to underfunding and ignorance of the problem the proper programs have not been considered.
This is a population that the nation relies on. Migrants are the backbone of industries like agriculture, meatpacking, landscaping, construction and various others. America depends on migrants and should provide the already underprivileged workers proper HIV prevention programs.
In Arizona there are upwards of 10,000 people living with the AIDS virus.
Nearly 5 percent of farmworkers are infected with the virus. When compared to the national average of 0.6 percent it is clear that the workforce many take for granted is suffering at a much higher rate.
Not all migrants come from Mexico, others come from Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Asian countries. Because many do not speak English, the language barrier makes it harder to develop and implement effect HIV prevention programs to target the population.Several of the major risk factors plaguing this population are sexual cultural taboos (not using proper contraception), needle sharing, poverty and racial issues. As well, access to health care is extremely as many migrants work in industries where employers do not offer health insurance.
Some migrants fear contact with government agencies because of deportation worries or past prosecutions. Therefore many do not receive government sponsored health programs such as Medicaid.
Poverty is also a stranglehold on the life of a migrant worker. The average income is roughly $10,500 according to the U.S. Commission of Agricultural Workers.
Here are the raw numbers according to the UNIDOS Network of Capacity Building Assistance Providers: "Hispanics, who comprise 14 percent of the U.S. population, account for 19.8 percent of all HIV/AIDS cases among adult males, 19.2 percent of all cases among adult females and 21.6 percent of all pediatric cases."
Education on ways to prevent the spread and contraction of HIV is the most successful way to the increasing amount of AIDS cases in the migrant population. Due to underfunding and ignorance of the problem the proper programs have not been considered.
This is a population that the nation relies on. Migrants are the backbone of industries like agriculture, meatpacking, landscaping, construction and various others. America depends on migrants and should provide the already underprivileged workers proper HIV prevention programs.
In Arizona there are upwards of 10,000 people living with the AIDS virus.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
U.S.-Mexico bordertowns: a hub of pharmaceuticals not FDA appoved
Mexican pharmaceuticals are entering the U.S. at a staggering rate that is growing annually. The majority of drugs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and could potentially harm those who take them.
A large number of elderly make yearly treks to Mexican border towns, such as Nogales, Sonora, to purchase generic drugs at a discount price. But the larger majority are under the age of 35, according to Dr. Marvin Shepard at the University of Texas College of Pharmacy.
In Nogales, several 'farmacias' line Avenue Alvaro Obregon, the main street, providing ready-to-sell prescription drugs along with hastily written prescriptions to anyone with the money to buy them.
Dangerous drugs like Somas and Vicodin, both considered controlled substances by the FDA and U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, line the pharmacies' shelves and are just a two of vast selection.
Mexico is a fun place to visit and my friends and I often go south for an afternoon to have lunch and a few beers at one of the many bars. The food is good, the beers are cheap and the experience is worth the drive. The problem is the annoying drug peddlers on the street.
A man working for the 'veterinarian clinic' located on a second story above Avenue Alvaro Obregon tried to coax us up by asking, "Steroids, steroids? Testosterone?" After saying no several times the man decided to walk next to us down the strip and began showing labels of the steroids he sells. "Only $150 dollars."
This experience is not the first time I have experienced the pressure put on tourist to purchase illegal substances. Popular Mexican spring break locations offer the same drugs. Pharmacists tell U.S. citizens the best ways to get the drugs past the border. They tell you one suggestion is to buy a souvenir and conceal or mail it to a U.S. address for an additional fee.
The 'farmacias' are a major source of revenue for the Mexican economy and the government has failed to provide strict regulation on the booming industry.
Mexican Pharmaceuticals at the Border... OR, Where the Pain Pills AT? is a film made by University of Arizona student about border pharmacies and their clientèle. The film interviews a student who was caught with drugs without a prescription at a border crossing and a Mexican pharmacy owner. It is one of the first documentaries to investigate this rising issue along the U.S.-Mexico border.
A large number of elderly make yearly treks to Mexican border towns, such as Nogales, Sonora, to purchase generic drugs at a discount price. But the larger majority are under the age of 35, according to Dr. Marvin Shepard at the University of Texas College of Pharmacy.
In Nogales, several 'farmacias' line Avenue Alvaro Obregon, the main street, providing ready-to-sell prescription drugs along with hastily written prescriptions to anyone with the money to buy them.
Dangerous drugs like Somas and Vicodin, both considered controlled substances by the FDA and U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, line the pharmacies' shelves and are just a two of vast selection.
Mexico is a fun place to visit and my friends and I often go south for an afternoon to have lunch and a few beers at one of the many bars. The food is good, the beers are cheap and the experience is worth the drive. The problem is the annoying drug peddlers on the street.
A man working for the 'veterinarian clinic' located on a second story above Avenue Alvaro Obregon tried to coax us up by asking, "Steroids, steroids? Testosterone?" After saying no several times the man decided to walk next to us down the strip and began showing labels of the steroids he sells. "Only $150 dollars."
This experience is not the first time I have experienced the pressure put on tourist to purchase illegal substances. Popular Mexican spring break locations offer the same drugs. Pharmacists tell U.S. citizens the best ways to get the drugs past the border. They tell you one suggestion is to buy a souvenir and conceal or mail it to a U.S. address for an additional fee.
In 2003, more than 2,000,000 packages of pharmaceuticals made their way into the country through the mail system. Another, perhaps larger number of drugs are smuggled into the country.
Mexican Pharmaceuticals at the Border... OR, Where the Pain Pills AT? is a film made by University of Arizona student about border pharmacies and their clientèle. The film interviews a student who was caught with drugs without a prescription at a border crossing and a Mexican pharmacy owner. It is one of the first documentaries to investigate this rising issue along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
TMC granted zoning rights to start expansion
The Tucson Medical Center plans to expand its hospital on Grant and Craycroft Roads in Tucson, Ariz. got a huge boost from the Tucson City Council's New zoning approval last week.
Currently, the TMC is a maze of hallways and scattered buildings. Nurses have to be carted from building to building and patients experience more time traveling than multi-story medical facilities.
The planned area development for the property will revamp the area into a modern and more efficient medical facility.
"After nearly four years of work, we have successfully passed a major initial hurdle in getting the new Tucson Medical Center built for the community," said the TMC in response to the rezoning approval.
Some neighbors are still concerned the construction will lead to unwanted noise, increased traffic and blocked views.
The medical center is working to quell the concern by working with neighbors on design and agreements in the interest of both parties.
The TMC is the largest health-care facility in Southern Arizona. More than 6,000 babies are born each year, emergency visits total 90,000 and more than 30,000 people are admitted annually, according to the hospital's figures.
The TMC opened in 1943 and has undergone construction throughout the decades. This is the largest reconstruction of the hospital.
Currently, the TMC is a maze of hallways and scattered buildings. Nurses have to be carted from building to building and patients experience more time traveling than multi-story medical facilities.The planned area development for the property will revamp the area into a modern and more efficient medical facility.
"After nearly four years of work, we have successfully passed a major initial hurdle in getting the new Tucson Medical Center built for the community," said the TMC in response to the rezoning approval.
Some neighbors are still concerned the construction will lead to unwanted noise, increased traffic and blocked views.
The medical center is working to quell the concern by working with neighbors on design and agreements in the interest of both parties.
The TMC is the largest health-care facility in Southern Arizona. More than 6,000 babies are born each year, emergency visits total 90,000 and more than 30,000 people are admitted annually, according to the hospital's figures.
The TMC opened in 1943 and has undergone construction throughout the decades. This is the largest reconstruction of the hospital.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Border alliances helping meet future health goals
The U.S.- Mexico border region suffers from a long list of health conditions and unhealthiness. Those who live 62 miles north and south of the line have among the highest rates of blood and cholesterol levels, obesity and diabetes in the U.S. The region's diets are out of control causing cardiovascular disease to be more common in the Hispanic population.
The problems have caught the attention of various health groups who previously worked independently. The U.S. Mexico Border Health Commission and Pfizer, a pharmaceutical company, created alliances between various qualified health centers and organizations to attempt improve the health of the border region.
"The goals are increasing partnerships and creating a network to increase resources," said Laura Reichhardt, Arizona Coordinator for the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Outreach office with the Arizona Department of Health Services. "Many areas of in the region need health improvement."
A few of the organizations working together to achieve health goals include: the Mexico Secretariat of Health and Secretariat of Foreign Affairs, the Health Initiative of Americas, the Pan American Health Organization, the ten U.S.-Mexico border states and the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Association.
Last week the Alliance for a Healthy Border, the name of the partnership, held Border Binational Health Week in the region to recommend lifestyle changes and address public health issues.
There is still a lot of work to be done.
The population of Hispanics is expected to reach 102 million by 2050 and make up nearly 25% of the total U.S. population. Right now, access to care is limited and increases in health conditions are predicted. Latino life expectancy rates are lower along the 2,000 mile border region than any other part of the United States.
To date, the Alliance has helped more than 11,000 people - a number that would have to jump drastically to have any profound impact on the Hispanic population's health, according to a press release. Although, evaluations by the University of Texas Pan-American shows that those who received educational and community outreach lost weight and had lower blood sugar levels.
The problems have caught the attention of various health groups who previously worked independently. The U.S. Mexico Border Health Commission and Pfizer, a pharmaceutical company, created alliances between various qualified health centers and organizations to attempt improve the health of the border region.
"The goals are increasing partnerships and creating a network to increase resources," said Laura Reichhardt, Arizona Coordinator for the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Outreach office with the Arizona Department of Health Services. "Many areas of in the region need health improvement."
A few of the organizations working together to achieve health goals include: the Mexico Secretariat of Health and Secretariat of Foreign Affairs, the Health Initiative of Americas, the Pan American Health Organization, the ten U.S.-Mexico border states and the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Association.
Last week the Alliance for a Healthy Border, the name of the partnership, held Border Binational Health Week in the region to recommend lifestyle changes and address public health issues.
There is still a lot of work to be done.
The population of Hispanics is expected to reach 102 million by 2050 and make up nearly 25% of the total U.S. population. Right now, access to care is limited and increases in health conditions are predicted. Latino life expectancy rates are lower along the 2,000 mile border region than any other part of the United States.
To date, the Alliance has helped more than 11,000 people - a number that would have to jump drastically to have any profound impact on the Hispanic population's health, according to a press release. Although, evaluations by the University of Texas Pan-American shows that those who received educational and community outreach lost weight and had lower blood sugar levels.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Flu shots are readily available
Tucson, Ariz. - A number of medical clinics are offering affordable flu shots at various locations throughout the city to limit the spread of influenza virus.
In past years shortages have plagued the number of available vaccinations, but this year the vaccines are readily available.
"There are no shortages of vaccines this year," said Marilyn D., a registered nurse immunizing people at Fry's groceries store, 4150 E. 22nd St. "We encourage everyone to get flu shots."
On average, more than 225,000 people are hospitalized for influenza, or the common "flu", and nearly 37,000 die - most of whom are elderly.
Influenza Q&A
Mollen Immunization Clinics, a phoenix based medical practice, is offering more than 3,000 flu shot clinics in Arizona during this years flu season which began Sept. 19th.
Immunization clinics flu shot locations and schedule
"People can get the flu from being out in public and contact with other people," Marilyn said. "The most vulnerable are the infants and elderly."
Influenza symptoms include a fever, sore throat, chills, headache, fatigue and coughing.
The best time to get the influenza vaccine is in October and November, or up to two months later. Most influenza cases occur in January or February, but the flu season run through May.
If you are considering the influenza vaccine you might want to speak with your doctor before if you have severe allergies or already sick.
A small amount of people may experience severe reaction from the vaccine one or two days after the dose.
In past years shortages have plagued the number of available vaccinations, but this year the vaccines are readily available.
"There are no shortages of vaccines this year," said Marilyn D., a registered nurse immunizing people at Fry's groceries store, 4150 E. 22nd St. "We encourage everyone to get flu shots."
On average, more than 225,000 people are hospitalized for influenza, or the common "flu", and nearly 37,000 die - most of whom are elderly.
Influenza Q&A
Mollen Immunization Clinics, a phoenix based medical practice, is offering more than 3,000 flu shot clinics in Arizona during this years flu season which began Sept. 19th.
Immunization clinics flu shot locations and schedule
"People can get the flu from being out in public and contact with other people," Marilyn said. "The most vulnerable are the infants and elderly."
Influenza symptoms include a fever, sore throat, chills, headache, fatigue and coughing.
The best time to get the influenza vaccine is in October and November, or up to two months later. Most influenza cases occur in January or February, but the flu season run through May.
If you are considering the influenza vaccine you might want to speak with your doctor before if you have severe allergies or already sick.
A small amount of people may experience severe reaction from the vaccine one or two days after the dose.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Phoenix Children's Project
The Phoenix Children's Project provides children and families in need with more than food and clothing, they build trust and self-esteem to prepare them for the future. The Project is ran entirely by volunteers and donations. Many of the children come from broken homes and lives of poverty, but are loved and happy.
Doing activities like basketball, football and mountain climbing provides the kids with experiences that build character and improves social skills. As well, the Project rewards hard work and good grades through more incentives.
The Phoenix Children's Project works with parents to teach them how to care for their children and support their families. Most come from poor areas and have little education and income.
Many of the children suffer due to their parents inability to teach them the vital lessons of life. This starts them off on the wrong path in life and the Project strives to redirect them to be successful and learn to achieve.
Volunteers and donations are always needed. Some of the most needed items are dishes, computers, washing machines, beds, diapers and holiday decorations.
The holiday season is approaching fast and the organization is dependent on donations to make the children's holidays one to remember. Many of the kids have never experienced the joy of opening a present under the christmas tree.
For information about how to volunteer call (602) 955-2228 or email helpingkids@phoenixchildren.org
Projects and programs are a great way to meet the children and become involved in improving the life of one or several kids. Painting is an example of a great way to teach and enrich a child. Halloween is the closest holiday and the Project needs volunteers to setup the event and participate in activities.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
El Rio Medical Center
Tucson, Ariz. - El Rio Medical Center is urging the Sunnyside Unified School District to support renovations of the Multi-Educational Learning Center, potentially adding more doctors to the area. 
The South Side MEL building, 5101 S. Liberty Avenue, contains enough square footage to open a functioning clinic that would provide health care to the neighborhood and relieve crowded near-by clinics, said Frank Hale, a representative for El Rio and an retired professor of medicine.
The district would not need to support funding, only provide the building.
The building is located in a South Side neighborhood known as one of the poorest and medically strained areas in Pima County.
"For people in this community the average age of death is 64, which is far below the average age of death in Pima County and the state of Arizona," said Hale.
Currently the building houses four physical therapists, the Office for Career Ladder, Family Resource and Wellness Center, copier technicians and storage supply space - which would all need to move for reconstruction.
El Rio is known for providing care to uninsured patients and needy communities with affordable medical care. The problem is there is not enough doctors in the area to treat the number of patients coming to the current clinics.
"If we do have the opportunity to build a new clinic in the MEL building location we could offer more comprehensive services and we could expand the patient care," said Hale.
More presentations will be given to the Sunnyside district's Governing Board at public meetings by the El Rio Medical Center and COPE, a community service improvement organization.
The South Side MEL building, 5101 S. Liberty Avenue, contains enough square footage to open a functioning clinic that would provide health care to the neighborhood and relieve crowded near-by clinics, said Frank Hale, a representative for El Rio and an retired professor of medicine.
The district would not need to support funding, only provide the building.
The building is located in a South Side neighborhood known as one of the poorest and medically strained areas in Pima County.
"For people in this community the average age of death is 64, which is far below the average age of death in Pima County and the state of Arizona," said Hale.
Currently the building houses four physical therapists, the Office for Career Ladder, Family Resource and Wellness Center, copier technicians and storage supply space - which would all need to move for reconstruction.
El Rio is known for providing care to uninsured patients and needy communities with affordable medical care. The problem is there is not enough doctors in the area to treat the number of patients coming to the current clinics.
"If we do have the opportunity to build a new clinic in the MEL building location we could offer more comprehensive services and we could expand the patient care," said Hale.
More presentations will be given to the Sunnyside district's Governing Board at public meetings by the El Rio Medical Center and COPE, a community service improvement organization.
The dangers of Tucson sidewalks
Walking in Tucson is difficult throughout much of the city. On the University of Arizona campus students are spoiled with nice pathways, but take a look off at the city and you'll find some uninviting walkways.
The most common problem is extended gaps that make moving along the road dangerous. These rocks around bus stops and areas with a lot of foot traffic pose a high risk of danger. Slipping is made easier by the round pebbles sliding underfoot. As well, rainfall causes many sidewalks to be partially rock covered.
Glass is a huge problem because one broken bottle's shards can stick into the dirt and stay there for years. Sandals are arguably the preferred footwear in the region and many have thin soles that are easily penetrable. Often times, glass is broken into dirt walkways and pieces jagged pieces stick out, easily cutting through most flip-flops.
Wheelchair users have to weave through gaps in the pavement. Here you can see the sidewalk simply stop and the curb is at least a foot high. This makes maneuvering for handicapped persons hard. Either go back in the direction or ramp it off the curb into the bike lane. Hard-packed dirt surfaces are not considered suitable for handicapped persons in the city.
Tucson's Sidewalk Inventory plan from 2005
Sidewalks are costly city improvements and the city has a lot of work to do to upgrade the walkways. The city's plan uses a ranking system to prioritize areas that need improvements first. Two more qualifications for improvements are the users each day and potential safety issues. Sidewalks that get improvements first are ones close to schools, parks and medical facilities.
The most common problem is extended gaps that make moving along the road dangerous. These rocks around bus stops and areas with a lot of foot traffic pose a high risk of danger. Slipping is made easier by the round pebbles sliding underfoot. As well, rainfall causes many sidewalks to be partially rock covered.Glass is a huge problem because one broken bottle's shards can stick into the dirt and stay there for years. Sandals are arguably the preferred footwear in the region and many have thin soles that are easily penetrable. Often times, glass is broken into dirt walkways and pieces jagged pieces stick out, easily cutting through most flip-flops.
Wheelchair users have to weave through gaps in the pavement. Here you can see the sidewalk simply stop and the curb is at least a foot high. This makes maneuvering for handicapped persons hard. Either go back in the direction or ramp it off the curb into the bike lane. Hard-packed dirt surfaces are not considered suitable for handicapped persons in the city.
Tucson's Sidewalk Inventory plan from 2005
Sidewalks are costly city improvements and the city has a lot of work to do to upgrade the walkways. The city's plan uses a ranking system to prioritize areas that need improvements first. Two more qualifications for improvements are the users each day and potential safety issues. Sidewalks that get improvements first are ones close to schools, parks and medical facilities.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Safe mexican food places in Tucson, Ariz.
Southern Arizona has some of the best fast-food Mexican eateries and taco stands in the nation. In Tucson, Ariz. there are many options to choose from to please your palate, but some could leave you hurting the day after.
The following is a guide of the most popular Mexican food restaurants around the old pueblo. The major three fast-food burrito restaurants in Tucson are Nico's Burrito, Viva Burrito and Los Betos Mexican Food. Each restaurant has multiple locations and are open until at least 12 a.m.
Nico's Burrito has some of the biggest burritos around town. They are not skimpy on the ingredients and have workers who can get your order right most of the time. You can expect relatively decent service here. The salsa is what attracts a lot of people. It is a red salsa that is a bit spicy and not watery like Viva Burritos. There are more than 10 Nico's locations around Tucson, and the food seems rather consistent from each one.
Don't be surprised if you witness some of Tucson's scarier people around these locations, I've seen several fights while sitting in the drive-thru. I have only encountered one person who has has trouble digesting Nico's food. The problem is the carne asada; it is rather sketchy. It is very tasty and the most popular item, but often I find inedible steak chunks in the burritos that you have to spit out. These could leave your body questing your decision. That said, you have to taste it because it is pretty good.
Watch out for the Viva Burrito's at 2645 E. Speedway Blvd. and 8555 E. Broadway Blvd. Recently, the two restaurants have failed health inspections by the Pima County Health Department. This isn't entirely surprising. The restaurant has failed past
inspections and has a reputation around the city as one of the riskier places to eat. The location pictured on my right is the St. Mary's location and is pretty good.
Many people are attracted to Viva because it is open all the time. This is a good thing except the staff seemingly likes to take their time so you could easily be waiting for 10-15 minutes to just get to the window. From there, except another 5 minutes for the food and consider yourself lucky if you receive a "thank you." The food isn't bad, but Viva recently changed salsas to a cheaper Mexican made packet style. No bueno.
Los Betos is like the cooler older brother of Viva Burritos. They have food that provides you with a late night hunger fix, but might makes your stomach rumble. I can remember several instances where people have developed food poisoning from eating their food. They have locations all around the city and most of them are drive-thru.
If you live next to the University of Arizona it might be worth your while to check out Los Alazanes Mexican Food. The restaurant is good a making burritos and has a good history of health inspections. It is close to campus and never too busy. The staff is good and the service is prompter than other competitors.
Whatever restaurant you choose to eat at remember that the food will differ on a case-by-case basis. Look at who is preparing the food if you can and how the staff works. If they look upbeat and happy then they should be doing a decent job with your burrito. At some places it is apparent the people do not want to be there and are just plain sloppy. Other times, the experience is good with fast, quality food that glides through your body like fine cuisine.
Click here to search the Pima County Health Department's inspections records
The following is a guide of the most popular Mexican food restaurants around the old pueblo. The major three fast-food burrito restaurants in Tucson are Nico's Burrito, Viva Burrito and Los Betos Mexican Food. Each restaurant has multiple locations and are open until at least 12 a.m.
Nico's Burrito has some of the biggest burritos around town. They are not skimpy on the ingredients and have workers who can get your order right most of the time. You can expect relatively decent service here. The salsa is what attracts a lot of people. It is a red salsa that is a bit spicy and not watery like Viva Burritos. There are more than 10 Nico's locations around Tucson, and the food seems rather consistent from each one.
Don't be surprised if you witness some of Tucson's scarier people around these locations, I've seen several fights while sitting in the drive-thru. I have only encountered one person who has has trouble digesting Nico's food. The problem is the carne asada; it is rather sketchy. It is very tasty and the most popular item, but often I find inedible steak chunks in the burritos that you have to spit out. These could leave your body questing your decision. That said, you have to taste it because it is pretty good.
Watch out for the Viva Burrito's at 2645 E. Speedway Blvd. and 8555 E. Broadway Blvd. Recently, the two restaurants have failed health inspections by the Pima County Health Department. This isn't entirely surprising. The restaurant has failed past
inspections and has a reputation around the city as one of the riskier places to eat. The location pictured on my right is the St. Mary's location and is pretty good.Many people are attracted to Viva because it is open all the time. This is a good thing except the staff seemingly likes to take their time so you could easily be waiting for 10-15 minutes to just get to the window. From there, except another 5 minutes for the food and consider yourself lucky if you receive a "thank you." The food isn't bad, but Viva recently changed salsas to a cheaper Mexican made packet style. No bueno.
Los Betos is like the cooler older brother of Viva Burritos. They have food that provides you with a late night hunger fix, but might makes your stomach rumble. I can remember several instances where people have developed food poisoning from eating their food. They have locations all around the city and most of them are drive-thru.
If you live next to the University of Arizona it might be worth your while to check out Los Alazanes Mexican Food. The restaurant is good a making burritos and has a good history of health inspections. It is close to campus and never too busy. The staff is good and the service is prompter than other competitors.
Whatever restaurant you choose to eat at remember that the food will differ on a case-by-case basis. Look at who is preparing the food if you can and how the staff works. If they look upbeat and happy then they should be doing a decent job with your burrito. At some places it is apparent the people do not want to be there and are just plain sloppy. Other times, the experience is good with fast, quality food that glides through your body like fine cuisine.
Click here to search the Pima County Health Department's inspections records
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Mosquitos can do more than cause an itch...
For most people a mosquito bite is more of an annoyance than a cause for alarm. In Arizona, mosquitoes are a natural inhabitant of the climate and until recent years have posed no real health threat.
In recent years, the common Arizonan mosquito has become increasingly infected with the West Nile virus. The first cases in Arizona appeared in the that 90s and have increased steadily with time. By 2007, the virus had spread through nearly all of North America.
Everybody is at risk to contract the WNV, but if proper measures are taken the risk can be lowered substantially. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends mosquito repellent with DEET whenever hiking outdoors or working in the yard.
Listen to Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano's message on West Nile Virus.
The incubation period of West Nile virus incubation period is indefinite and probably ranges from 3 to 17 days. The symptoms are nausea, vomiting, eye pain, headache, anorexia, rash and generally last 3 to 6 days.
West Nile Virus Prevention Tips
Since 1999, there have been more than 500 deaths in the United States due to WNV. You can help prevent the disease by ensuring no standing water is around your house and neighborhood. A few common mosquito breeding grounds are bird baths, empty pots and buckets, as well as unmaintained pools and spas.
In recent years, the common Arizonan mosquito has become increasingly infected with the West Nile virus. The first cases in Arizona appeared in the that 90s and have increased steadily with time. By 2007, the virus had spread through nearly all of North America.
Everybody is at risk to contract the WNV, but if proper measures are taken the risk can be lowered substantially. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends mosquito repellent with DEET whenever hiking outdoors or working in the yard.
Listen to Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano's message on West Nile Virus.
The incubation period of West Nile virus incubation period is indefinite and probably ranges from 3 to 17 days. The symptoms are nausea, vomiting, eye pain, headache, anorexia, rash and generally last 3 to 6 days.
Standing water is not hard to find in Tucson, Ariz.
Picture by Devin Walker
Picture by Devin Walker
West Nile Virus Prevention Tips
Since 1999, there have been more than 500 deaths in the United States due to WNV. You can help prevent the disease by ensuring no standing water is around your house and neighborhood. A few common mosquito breeding grounds are bird baths, empty pots and buckets, as well as unmaintained pools and spas.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
The Dangers of Illegally Crossing the Border
The Border region is a desert climate that claims many migrant lives annually. These border crossers risk their lives looking for work and a better life in America. The temperatures in Southern Arizona can easily soar to more than 100 degrees and without proper hydration, heat exhaustion can occur. Migrants put themselves at risk after several days of exposure to intense sun, improper nutrition and constant work.
Dehydration is the number one killer of migrants. During winter and summer the desert can take a toll on the human body. Without a proper water supply the body cannot sustain the work required to cross the region. Humane Borders has more than 80 water stations located throughout Southern Arizona. These stations are strategically setup along popular migrant trails. As well, some stations have first aid kits and emergency rations.
Map of Migrant Deaths in Arizona 2000 - 2004
The average walking speed is about 3 mph. During a day migrants are able to cover only a small distance with breaks every few hours. Depending on the route taken, trips can take weeks to complete. Humane Borders says, "Don't do it! It's Hard! There's not enough water!"
Map of water stations:
Dehydration is the number one killer of migrants. During winter and summer the desert can take a toll on the human body. Without a proper water supply the body cannot sustain the work required to cross the region. Humane Borders has more than 80 water stations located throughout Southern Arizona. These stations are strategically setup along popular migrant trails. As well, some stations have first aid kits and emergency rations.
Map of Migrant Deaths in Arizona 2000 - 2004
The average walking speed is about 3 mph. During a day migrants are able to cover only a small distance with breaks every few hours. Depending on the route taken, trips can take weeks to complete. Humane Borders says, "Don't do it! It's Hard! There's not enough water!"
Map of water stations:
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Border Region Water
The national border is an area that relies on water as a lifeline. In Tucson, Arizona the city's water is allocated from a variety of sources. Two of the main sources of water include Colorado River water (CAP: Central Arizona Project water) and native groundwater pumped from more than 200 wells located throughout the city. Tucson's future, as well as the majority of the southwest, relies on the ability to quench the thirst of an ever growing population.
Drive around Tucson with your windows down long enough and you'll be sure to smell a few stenches. Chances are, at least one the unpleasant aromas you encountered is raw sewage slowly dribbling its way to one of several Tucson sewage treatment plants. Once there, the water is treated through several purification processes then piped out for use. Presently, the most common use for reclaimed water is for irrigating parks, schools and golf courses.
The city is steadily growing while water supplies are evaporating. In the future reclaimed, or effluent water, will be a hot topic for voters. The decision will be whether or not to allow the water to be piped to our taps. According to the Tucson Water's Long Range Water Plan: 2000 - 2050, "Effluent, treated wastewater, is the only water resource we have that increases as population increases."
Most people cringe at the thought of drinking water that someone had previously showered in. More importantly, remember that smell? Well, effluent water is that smell's prettier cousin. Furthermore, Tucson Water states that while our cleaner water supplies diminish "[effluent] is the one water resource we have that is always increasing".
More effluent means more minerals into our water unless costly treatment facilities are built. As well, getting effluent water to citizens for potable use is itself a daunting task. The future of water in the southwest is a complicated issue, one in which voters should be engaged in. It is a issue that effects us all. The desert region is in a constant drought. Water conservation is the responsibility of every individual and is the key to securing a secure future.
Links:
Tucson Water's Annual Quality Report 2006
Tucson Weekly's From the Toilet to your Tap
Water for Tucson's Future: Long Range Water Plan 2000 - 2050
Drive around Tucson with your windows down long enough and you'll be sure to smell a few stenches. Chances are, at least one the unpleasant aromas you encountered is raw sewage slowly dribbling its way to one of several Tucson sewage treatment plants. Once there, the water is treated through several purification processes then piped out for use. Presently, the most common use for reclaimed water is for irrigating parks, schools and golf courses.
The city is steadily growing while water supplies are evaporating. In the future reclaimed, or effluent water, will be a hot topic for voters. The decision will be whether or not to allow the water to be piped to our taps. According to the Tucson Water's Long Range Water Plan: 2000 - 2050, "Effluent, treated wastewater, is the only water resource we have that increases as population increases."
Most people cringe at the thought of drinking water that someone had previously showered in. More importantly, remember that smell? Well, effluent water is that smell's prettier cousin. Furthermore, Tucson Water states that while our cleaner water supplies diminish "[effluent] is the one water resource we have that is always increasing".
More effluent means more minerals into our water unless costly treatment facilities are built. As well, getting effluent water to citizens for potable use is itself a daunting task. The future of water in the southwest is a complicated issue, one in which voters should be engaged in. It is a issue that effects us all. The desert region is in a constant drought. Water conservation is the responsibility of every individual and is the key to securing a secure future.
Links:
Tucson Water's Annual Quality Report 2006
Tucson Weekly's From the Toilet to your Tap
Water for Tucson's Future: Long Range Water Plan 2000 - 2050
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Health needs along the US Mexican Border
I've been browsing the YouTube videos looking for a good interview to post that would be both informative and recent. I stumbled across US Mexican Border Health Needs, a more recent account of the health issues along the border region. In the video the Head of the Health Initiative of the Americas speaks about the reasons for mass migration, inequality of economics along the border and various health issues that are an effect of this. In Mexico, health care is a right outlined clearly in the constitution; Universal health care for every citizen. Although it might not be the best system, the care is there for the citizen. In America, the video explains that health care is a service not a right. The United States needs a Mexican workforce? I don't know about this speculation the video makes. Sure there are going to be a large number of baby boomers retiring, but I believe the population is going to be adequate to replace them. And what about the millions of immigrants already in America? Well, please watch the video interview and determine the facts presented for yourself. Thanks!
Let's get the ball rolling...
The United States border with Mexico is the busiest country divide in the world as more than 300 million people, 90 million cars and 4.3 million trucks pass through every year (U.S. State Department). Health along the border is an underrepresented beat that holds great importance to many populations in the U.S. and Mexico. The goal of this blog will be to inform people of major border issues and spark discussions on the matter. The major border stories presented by the mainstream media discuss how to stop the flow of illegal immigrants, securing the border and what to do with the millions of illegals already a part of the American economy. This blog will pick apart these stories and decipher the facts as well as compare and contrast the various news sources. As well, original material and opinions will be presented and clearly shown. Credibility is important to any reader and this blog handles this as the utmost priority. Bookmarks, read and come back frequently!
Reference: U.S. Department of State 2002 Border Facts: http://www.state.gov/p/wha/rls/fs/8974.htm
Reference: U.S. Department of State 2002 Border Facts: http://www.state.gov/p/wha/rls/fs/8974.htm
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
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