Diary Prequel Package — page 314

evening was had by all. John sharply criticized Obama's energy policy saying that his slowing down Shale drilling and the Alaska pipeline is preventing us from becoming completely energy independent. May 18, 2013 -- At work on Saturday. Chris flew to Sacramento to see Ali compete in the PAC-12 crew meet. I am home with Megan who is studying for the MCAT exam next week with her friend Iman. Meg just finished her post-baccalaureate pre-med year at Hopkins. Will take MCAT on May 23. May 21-23, 2013 -- Went to Paris to give Opening keynote lecture at the Institut Pasteur that is celebrating the 30 Anniversary of the Science paper by Francoise Barre-Sinoussi and Luc Montagnier identifying HIV (LAV) in May, 2003. I spoke about the future challenges in HIV/AIDS research. Francoise and the French were extremely gracious to me. After the difficulties with Gallo and "the Americans" historically, they have settled now with showering on me great respect and honor as someone who has been in the field from Day One and who has made extraordinary contributions, but importantly has conducted himself with leadership and integrity. Francoise introduced me before my lecture as "The only person who possibly could deliver this Keynote Address at this historic time. She was extremely gracious. Although I do not like to travel, the trip was actually fun. Went to dinner one night with Bob, Deborah and Mia Seder at Le Bon Ami -- great restaurant. Next night had group gala dinner at Le Theatre du Merveilleux - Les Pavillons de Bercy. It was magical in that Francoise, Marie-Lise Gourgeon and a couple of other dignitaries gave me and Bob Gallo a private tour of what turned out to be a "Fellini-like" museum of the history of 18- 19 Century Paris with many Carousels, statues, costumes gadgets, etc. It was the place where the wine was stored as well as fruits and food for sale to the shops in Paris. Also saw the original head-dress of Josephine Baker when she was in her hey-day in Paris. May 23, 2013 -- Flew back and went immediately to the black-tie Gala Dinner for FELA of the Sons of Italy. Gave awards to a scholarship student as well to Robert Corrao -- sports media figure. Good time at dinner with discussions with many celebrities that are either old friend or new ones that I just met. -- Colin Powell (got an award), Generals James Jones, Ray Odierno. Sen. Jack Reed, Doug Flutie, Joe Montegna (MC of the event), etc. Good evening, even though I was exhausted from Trans-Atlantic flight. Heavy thunderstorms that night. May 29, 2013 -- Just got NEJM commentary accepted without review and in about 3 hours from submission on H7N9 and the likelihood of direct mutation to pandemicity. Was on CNN Wolf Blitzer "Situation Room" to discuss MERS-COV. Now 59 cases and 30 deaths. Will go to Indianapolis tonight to watch Ali row in the NCAA Women's Crew Tournament.