I can't believe this merited serious conversation in an article

Proving that many newspaper reporters are apparently paid by the word, a recent campaign speech by Theresa Heinz-Kerry resulted in the following bit of hard-hitting reporting (thanks to Drudge for the link):

Heinz Kerry ended with what she called “a highly effective” remedy for arthritis that drew laughter and some skepticism from the audience. “You get some gin and get some white raisins — and only white raisins — and soak them in the gin for two weeks,” she said. “Then eat nine of the raisins a day.”

Despite the laughter, Dr. Steven Phillips, director of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Nevada quickly supported the prescription. Phillips, on stage with Heinz Kerry as part of the panel, said sulfur and sulfides found in grapes are increased by the alcohol and could perhaps alleviate joint pain.

Dr. Michael Gerber, a noted homeopathic doctor in Reno, also said the formula has merit. “It makes sense,” said Gerber from his office. “People go to hot springs to soak in the water and that water is very high in sulfur. So Mrs. Kerry’s remedy is pretty plausible.”

Dolores Jackson of Reno, a Kerry supporter who attended the rally, took the raisin and gin remedy seriously. “There are really other remedies where we don’t have to use so many drugs,” Jackson said. “I really believe in alternative medicine.” The health plan Heinz Kerry prescribed for the nation, however, did not include any grapes.

First, you have to love the fact that this lady keeps saying weird stuff everytime she hits a crowd.

But, more important, why did this quote merit so much research from the reporter?

BTW, still haven't worked out my home computer communication issues yet, which should explain away my slacking on the blogue. Should be back up in a couple weeks, once I deal with the fact that there's only one working phone jack in my whole home...

Catch ya later.