Author Eric Schlosser on Nuclear Weapons, Author Steve Kohlhagen on NM History

This week, NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS talks with investigative journalist Eric Schlosser. He exposed the dark side of food in America with “Fast Food Nation,” and now his newest book explores the country’s nuclear arsenal. ““Command and Control: Nuclear Weapons, the Damascus Accident, and the Illusion of Safety”” is a ground-breaking account of accidents and near misses. Schlosser reveals how the combination of human fallibility and technological complexity still poses a grave risk to mankind.

In the One on One segment, NMiF Producer Megan Kamerick speaks with the author of a historical novel set in New Mexico during the Civil War and featuring historical figures such as Kit Carson and Apache leader Cochise. Steve Kohlhagen wrote “”Where They Bury You”” after stumbling upon a historical mystery about the provost marshal of Santa Fe, who was found with unusually large quantities of money in his saddlebags when he died under suspicious circumstances.

The Line Opinion Panel looks at the two competing budget proposals issued this week by Gov. Susana Martinez and the Legislative Finance Committee.

The panel also discusses possible impacts on New Mexico from the legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado.

GUESTS:
Steve Kohlhagen, author of “Where They Bury You”
Eric Schlosser, journalist and author of “”Command and Control: Nuclear Weapons, The Damascus Accident, and The Illusion Of Safety””

LINE PANELISTS:
Dan Foley, Former House Minority Whip
Sophie Martin, Attorney
Rob Nikolewski, Editor, Capitol Report New Mexico

LINE GUEST PANELISTS:
Julie Ann Grimm, Editor, Santa Fe Reporter

CORRESPONDENT: Megan Kamerick, NMiF Producer

HOST/COMMENTATOR: Gene Grant

The Producer of NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS is Megan Kamerick. Associate Producer is Kathy Wimmer. Funding for this program was provided in part by the McCune Foundation.

Episode 728 for air January 10, 2014