Dr. Frankenstein to Head Medical Group

I know it's not nice to make light of people's names — especially since I endured all sorts of ridicule (Salla-gay, Salladhead) in elementary school — but it should be noted that the new president-elect of the California Medical Assn. is Dr. Frankenstein.

According to the CMA, Dr. Richard Frankenstein, in photo, is a specialist in pulmonary medicine at Garden Grove Hospital who has practiced in Orange County since 1980. In other doctor-lobbyist related news, state Sen. Joe Dunn has been named chief executive officer of the influential organization. Dunn is a litigator who spearheaded the Legislature's investigation into the energy crisis. He also provided the dramatic final vote to kill legislation this year allowing assisted suicide — siding with the CMA.

Someone at the doctor group must have a sense of humor: They announced Dr. Frankenstein's election on Halloween.

(Photo: California Medical Assn.)