# Health Code Violation > From the high-stakes production of Eurovision in Moscow to the militarization of the Boy Scouts, global power shifts as China secures strategic influence in Sri Lanka. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 98 - **Published:** 2009-05-17 - **Length:** 1h 21m - **Topics:** Eurovision 2009, Intel Fine, [Wolfram Alpha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wolfram-alpha.md), Tamil Tigers, [Sous Vide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sous-vide.md), Stepan Company, Obama Shoes - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation ## About this episode The 2009 Eurovision Song Contest in Moscow concludes with a record-breaking victory for Alexander Rybak of Norway, sparking a debate over the high-budget Russian production and the technical use of off-stage backing vocalists. Meanwhile, the Obama administration faces the rise of unauthorized commemorative merchandise as a television commercial for thirty-nine-dollar Obama Shoes triggers predictions of an imminent legal crackdown on the use of the President’s likeness. In Sri Lanka, the surrender of the Tamil Tigers signals the end of a decades-long civil war, highlighting China’s strategic role in providing weaponry to secure vital shipping lanes and port access. Domestic concerns rise as the New York Times reports on Boy Scouts receiving tactical counter-terrorism training from law enforcement, while the Stepan Company’s coca leaf processing facility near New Trier High School draws scrutiny due to its proximity to the alma mater of Rahm Emanuel. In the technology sector, European Union Commissioner Neelie Kroes levies a record one-point-four-five billion dollar antitrust fine against Intel for anti-competitive practices targeting AMD. Simultaneously, the launch of the Wolfram Alpha computational knowledge engine faces immediate infrastructure strain, redirecting traffic to a Justin.tv live feed after failing to process initial user queries during its public debut. John C. Dvorak details the chemical dangers of cyanide found in apricot pits and warns against the botulism risks associated with Nathan Myhrvold’s sous vide cooking techniques. Adam Curry shares his enthusiasm for a rare, full-ending version of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Free Bird included in the latest musical interlude. The duo also explores the oddity of a rejected German patent for a Saudi-invented killer chip designed to track and remotely execute individuals via implanted GPS and poison capsules. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/transcript.md. ### 1. Gitmo Nation East, Personal Disclaimers and Trust (0:01–1:40) Adam Curry broadcasts from London, United Kingdom, while John C. Dvorak joins from Silicon Valley, California. Curry issues a personal disclaimer regarding upcoming life events he cannot yet disclose, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust with the audience. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Costco Easter Eggs, Raw Milk Cheese and CEO Culture (1:42–5:59) John C. Dvorak describes finding "Easter eggs" at Costco, including high-end wines like Chateau Mouton Rothschild and rare raw milk cheeses. The discussion covers the legality of raw milk products in the United States and the specific management style of the Costco CEO that encourages unique inventory selections. Keywords: [costco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/costco.md), chateau mouton rothschild, raw milk cheese, [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Eurovision Song Contest 2009, Russian Production and Norway Victory (6:01–10:14) Adam Curry praises the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest held in Moscow, Russia, highlighting the high production value and technical execution. Alexander Rybak from Norway won the competition with the song "Fairytale," which Curry identifies as a perfect pop record. Keywords: [eurovision](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eurovision.md), [moscow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moscow.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [norway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/norway.md), alexander rybak, [cirque du soleil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cirque-du-soleil.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Eurovision Technical Tricks, UK Performance and Graham Norton (10:15–15:45) The United Kingdom improved its standing in the Eurovision Song Contest with a song by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Technical aspects of the show are analyzed, including the use of off-stage backing vocalists to support lead performers and the commentary provided by host Graham Norton. Keywords: [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), andrew lloyd webber, [graham norton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/graham-norton.md), [estonia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/estonia.md), live vocals [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Chinese Zodiac Calamities, Listener Correction from China (15:47–16:46) A listener in China corrects a previous segment regarding the Chinese zodiac and its supposed link to global calamities. The email clarifies the specific animals assigned to the years 2007 through 2010, dismissing previous claims as inaccurate. Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [chinese zodiac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chinese-zodiac.md), year of the pig, year of the tiger, [listener feedback](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listener-feedback.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Dvorak Interlude Number Five, Hippie Music and Free Bird (16:47–23:09) Adam Curry praises John C. Dvorak's "Interlude Number Five" music mix, specifically the inclusion of a rare version of "Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd that features a proper ending rather than a fade-out. The discussion touches on the "hippie" culture of the Big Island in Hawaii and the lyrics of Roger Glover. Keywords: [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), free bird, lynyrd skynyrd, roger glover, autograph [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Obama Shoes TV Commercial, Unofficial Merchandise Crackdown (23:10–26:12) A television commercial for "Obama Shoes" offers commemorative sneakers, a backpack, and a basketball for $39.99. The hosts predict the business will be shut down by the administration for unauthorized use of President Barack Obama's likeness and signature. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), obamashoes.tv, [sneakers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sneakers.md), [copyright](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copyright.md), [merchandise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/merchandise.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Stepan Company, Cocaine Importation and New Trier High School (26:13–30:40) A listener points out that the Stepan Company, which is licensed to import coca leaves for Coca-Cola, rents space near New Trier High School, the alma mater of Rahm Emanuel and Donald Rumsfeld. John C. Dvorak shares his personal experience chewing coca leaves for altitude sickness in the Andes. Keywords: stepan company, [coca-cola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coca-cola.md), new trier high school, [rahm emanuel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rahm-emanuel.md), [donald rumsfeld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-rumsfeld.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Boy Scouts Counter-Terrorism Training, New York Times Report (30:40–33:48) The New York Times reports on Boy Scouts receiving tactical training from law enforcement to fight terrorists and illegal immigrants. The hosts criticize the militarization of the youth organization, noting photos of teenagers in combat gear with firearms. Keywords: [boy scouts of america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boy-scouts-of-america.md), [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [law enforcement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/law-enforcement.md), [border patrol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-patrol.md), [militia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/militia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Military Corrections, Iraq Mental Health Facility Shooting (33:49–36:05) A military listener corrects previous statements regarding a shooting at a mental health facility in Iraq and the replacement of a general in Afghanistan. The email also mentions a mission to destroy an opiate cache in Afghanistan, which the hosts suggest might be targeting competition. Keywords: [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [friendly fire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/friendly-fire.md), [opium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/opium.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Tamil Tigers Defeat, Sri Lankan Civil War and China (36:07–40:33) The Tamil Tigers concede defeat in Sri Lanka, ending a decades-long civil war. Reports indicate that China benefited from the conflict by providing weaponry in exchange for strategic access to Sri Lankan ports and shipping lanes, bypassing Indian influence. Keywords: [sri lanka](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sri-lanka.md), tamil tigers, [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [india](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/india.md), [shipping lanes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shipping-lanes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Michelle Obama Commencement Speeches, UC Merced and G20 (40:36–41:59) First Lady Michelle Obama is scheduled to give a commencement speech at UC Merced, drawing a massive crowd to the rural California campus. Her previous public appearances at schools during the G20 summit in London are also noted. Keywords: [michelle obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-obama.md), uc merced, [commencement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commencement.md), [g20](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/g20.md), girls school [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Dutch Government Media Subsidies, Ministry of Truth Concerns (42:00–44:19) The Dutch government announces a plan to pay the salaries of 60 young journalists to support the struggling newspaper industry. The hosts compare this move to the "Ministry of Truth" from George Orwell's 1984, arguing it compromises journalistic independence. Keywords: [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [the guardian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-guardian.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [subsidies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/subsidies.md), [george orwell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-orwell.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Wolfram Alpha Launch, Computational Knowledge Engine (44:19–46:45) Wolfram Alpha launches as a computational knowledge engine designed to provide direct answers rather than search links. During a live test, the site fails to process a query due to high traffic, redirecting users to a live video feed of their control center on Justin.tv. Keywords: [wolfram alpha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wolfram-alpha.md), [search engine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/search-engine.md), stephen wolfram, [data](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data.md), justin.tv [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Intel EU Antitrust Fine, Neelie Kroes and AMD (46:45–51:23) The European Union, led by Commissioner Neelie Kroes, fines Intel $1.45 billion for anti-competitive practices against AMD. John C. Dvorak discusses his history with Silicon Valley lawsuits and the potential for further legal trouble for Intel under Sarbanes-Oxley regulations. Keywords: [intel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intel.md), [amd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amd.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [neelie kroes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neelie-kroes.md), [antitrust](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antitrust.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/15.md) ### 16. German Patent Rejection, Saudi Killer Chip Invention (51:28–54:44) German authorities reject a patent application from a Saudi inventor for a "killer chip" designed to be implanted under the skin. The device would feature a GPS tracker and a remote-controlled cyanide capsule to eliminate individuals deemed a public threat. Keywords: [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), [patent](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patent.md), [cyanide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyanide.md), [gps tracking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gps-tracking.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Cyanide Properties, Almond Aroma and Apple Seeds (54:44–59:58) John C. Dvorak explains the chemical properties of cyanide, noting its presence in apricot pits and apple seeds. He describes the characteristic almond scent of the poison and warns against consuming large quantities of apple seeds due to health risks. Keywords: [cyanide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyanide.md), [almonds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/almonds.md), apricot pits, apple seeds, vitamin b17 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Sous Vide Cooking Dangers, Nathan Myhrvold and Botulism (59:57–1:08:26) The hosts discuss the risks associated with sous vide cooking, a method involving vacuum-sealed bags and low-temperature water baths. They criticize Nathan Myhrvold's advice to use rice cookers for this technique, warning that cooking fish at 102 degrees Fahrenheit poses a significant risk of botulism. Keywords: [sous vide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sous-vide.md), [nathan myhrvold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nathan-myhrvold.md), [gordon ramsay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-ramsay.md), fat duck, [botulism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/botulism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Culinary Textures, Michael Mina and Restaurant Service (1:08:26–1:11:10) The unique textures created by sous vide cooking are discussed in the context of high-end dining at restaurants like Michael Mina in San Francisco. While the results can be delicious, the hosts maintain that the process is a "dangerous culinary curiosity." Keywords: [michael mina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-mina.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), veal, duck, [michelin stars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelin-stars.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Swine Flu Statistics, RFID Dust and Laboratory Origin Theory (1:11:11–1:15:23) The CDC estimates that over 100,000 Americans have the flu, with half being the H1N1 swine flu strain. Australian scientist Adrian Gibbs suggests the virus may have originated in a laboratory, a claim the World Health Organization disputes. Keywords: [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [rfid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rfid.md), adrian gibbs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/20.md) ### 21. No Agenda Donations, Knights and Legacy Planning (1:15:28–1:17:51) The hosts discuss the "Value for Value" funding model, mentioning a producer who used an iPhone app to determine a random donation amount. They emphasize the need for a legacy plan for the show's funds in case of an emergency. Keywords: [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [knights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knights.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Show Logistics, New York Trip and San Francisco Meetup (1:17:51–1:20:56) Adam Curry prepares for a trip to New York, staying at the Sofitel, followed by a month-long stay in San Francisco in June. The hosts announce that the next show may be moved to Wednesday and will be coordinated via Twitter. Keywords: [new york](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york.md), sofitel, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/98-health-code-violation/chapter/22.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/97-brain-damage.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/99-dandelion-wine.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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