Famous George W. Quotes "I believe Men and Fish can coexist together peacfully."
"I support Latino owned buisnesses, women owned buisnesses, and every other kind of person owned buisnesses."
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Rest in Peace Gene R.
RIP Gene Reynolds Gene Reynolds of Benbrook, TX., a friend to many, passed away from pancreatic cancer yesterday at the age of 55. A railroad employee for 30 plus years, he was a dad, grandad, an inspiration, and a funny, generous guy. He will be missed by many people including me who had known him about nine years. Rest in peace, Gene.
RIP Gene Reynolds Gene Reynolds of Benbrook, TX., a friend to many, passed away from pancreatic cancer yesterday at the age of 55. A railroad employee for 30 plus years, he was a dad, grandad, an inspiration, and a funny, generous guy. He will be missed by many people including me who had known him about nine years. Rest in peace, Gene.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Prison Bound
Some say the probation system in Texas sets people up to fail.
By PETER GORMAN
Smoking Pot repeatedly put Ryan Peucker in trouble with probation authorities.
Ryan Peucker is nobody’s idea of an angel. He started smoking pot as a young teenager living in Joshua and Cleburne, dipped into cocaine and methamphetamine for a while, and in 1997, at age 18, agreed to help his friends pawn jewelry and other items stolen from one of the friend’s relatives.
But until he’d spent five years in and out of jail and forced rehab while on probation, he had never been violent; until then, the burglary charge that he drew for being present when the items were stolen from the friend’s grandfather’s house was the only charge ever filed on him.
A major problem for Peucker in trying since 1998 to get out of the justice system has been his inability to stay away from pot: Time and again, when he showed up at the Johnson County probation office, evidence of drugs was found in his required urine test.
But the other problem, according to some criminal justice system officers, lawyers, and civil libertarians, was his decision back in February 1998 to accept a plea agreement in the first place. It seemed a no-brainer at the time: Do 10 years probation rather than face the possibility of doing up to 20 years in prison, in a county where prosecutors are notorious for going for the max in almost every case. But the agreement put him in the same kind of almost-no-win situation that lands thousand of people in Texas prisons every year —people who, according to some experts, probably shouldn’t be there.
“I’d guess, from what I see, maybe 70 to 80 percent of the people who get probation wind up having their probation revoked,” said Lisa Williams, a parole officer in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
Nicole Porter, director of the Texas Civil Liberties Union’s prison and jail accountability project, said that doing probation in Texas is tough. “Few people can do 10 years,” she said. “Even five years is almost impossible. People simply cannot comply with the stringent requirements. I’d go as far as to say the system is set up with the intent that people will fail. People are expected to have their probation revoked.”
Peucker had even less chance than many because of where he committed his burglary. In Johnson County, said one probation officer there who asked not to be named, District Attorney Dale Hanna is “the kind of DA who insists we report even the most minor probation infraction. Kid’s late for an appointment, he’s liable to push for revocation and send that kid to jail.”
Joshua attorney Bill Mason, who represented Peucker for a time, said small towns make the problem worse because officers who see the same people over and over “finally take it personally. ... The days of the officer calling your parents and telling them you’re down at the station, well, those days are gone. Once you’re on the local cops’ radar, you are going to have a difficult time getting under it again.”
Peucker made it pretty easy for the justice system to gobble him up. The first condition of his probation agreement was to complete a 75- to 90-day “boot camp” — a military-style camp usually reserved for young offenders. If he could do the camp and the 10 years probation, the felony would disappear from his record.
But a bad back from a childhood injury prevented him from being able to stick through the boot camp. As an alternative, Peucker, who had been incarcerated for nearly four months by that time, was sentenced to 120 days on a work-release program. He was freed on weekdays from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. to do community service; nights and weekends he spent in the Johnson County jail.
Two months into the work-release program, Peucker came up positive for pot on a urine test. That netted him six months in the county jail. He got out, soon came up dirty again, and was sentenced to nine months in the Substance Abuse Felony Punishment Facility (SAFPF) in Huntsville. When he completed the program in October 1999, he was again remanded to work-release, this time to a Volunteers of America after-care program in Mansfield. He failed another urinalysis three months later, spent four more months in the Johnson County jail, and then went back for another six months in the SAFPF program.
Remanded to another work-release program, Peucker was sent on errands one day; when his probation officer couldn’t reach him there, he moved to have Peucker’s probation revoked. That meant the burglary conviction went on his permanent record, and he was sentenced to five years in prison, on top of the nearly four years in work-release, jail, and prison rehab that he had already done. He served 14 months, was credited with the eight months he’d spent waiting in Johnson County Jail for his case to come up, and was released on parole in late 1993.
He stayed clean for more than a year. But in May 2005, he failed another urine test, and the police picked him up. According to police reports, Peucker, handcuffed and with 135 pounds on a six-foot frame, tried to head-butt two officers as he was being escorted into the Johnson County jail. It was the first suggestion of violence in Peucker’s history with the criminal justice system.
He was charged with retaliation, a felony, and sat in the Johnson County jail from May 2005 until August 2006, when he accepted a plea agreement for two years in prison. He should be out sometime in 2007, with no more parole to do.
When he gets out this time, though, it will be a different Ryan Peucker than the 18-year-old who went inside in 1998. He now sports a lot of anger and full-sleeve tattoos that will mark him as a former inmate for the rest of his life. He also has two felonies on his record, making it vital that he walk a line he’s never been able to walk before.
“In the past,” said Bill Miller, owner of Miller’s Books in Cleburne and a former writer for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, “we had a program here in Johnson County called HOPE that I volunteered with — Helping Open Peoples’ Eyes. The intent when it was started was to work with the inmates at the county jail here, to give them support so that they’d have a safety net when they were released.
“They’d have people to talk with when they got down. ... And everyone gets down. They have no money, they can’t get jobs. And the program worked fine. But funding got cut a few years ago, and the county had no interest in it. Now it’s a horrible situation. In the old HOPE, there were computers and even a GED program — something for these kids to reach for,” he said.
“The problem is that there is simply no funding to do anything with these kids,” said Robert Kersey, a Granbury defense lawyer who handles some cases in Johnson County. “I think you have to be creative — and the law allows it — with these young people with dirty UAs [urinalyses]. There is no reason to revoke a probation for a kid smoking pot. You can send the kid out to pick up garbage on the highway or make them do some other community service the first few times they fail.” If they keep failing, he said, they can then be sent to the state prison drug rehab unit. “The way it is just isn’t working.”
In the last year, Tarrant County has begun to think creatively. According to Tom Plumbly, director of Tarrant County Adult Probation, “The revocation rate for people out on probation is so high that it’s just a funnel for prison. And what we’ve done about it in the last year is implement a new system of progressive sanctions. When people violate probation, we’re trying to do things other than send them to jail. On a first violation, we might give them three days in jail, not three months. That sort of thing.
“But we’re also trying to see that people get the help they need for wrong decision-making. People involved in criminal actions have to change their behaviors, and our job is to help with those changes through rehabilitation. For drug offenders in Tarrant, for instance, we’ve instituted intensive day treatment, an outpatient therapy. And we’ve begun group programs where people can learn how to make better decisions. And the result is that our felony probation revocations are down 20 percent this year over last year. We’ll see if that will last over the long haul, but I contend that if you don’t make the changes in the individual — and you can’t if you don’t offer them therapy and a way to change — then they will wind up having their probation revoked and be sent to prison. And that generally doesn’t do anybody any good.”
Richard De Los Santos, a defense attorney who works in Johnson and Tarrant counties, said Peucker’s original 10-year probated sentence seemed excessive to him — but not surprising in Johnson County. “Ten years probation for pawning some stolen stuff another kid robbed from his grandfather? And more than half of that in jail and prison for smoking pot a couple of times a year?” he said. “Nobody can do 10 years, even if they change their lifestyle.”
Some say the probation system in Texas sets people up to fail.
By PETER GORMAN
Smoking Pot repeatedly put Ryan Peucker in trouble with probation authorities.
Ryan Peucker is nobody’s idea of an angel. He started smoking pot as a young teenager living in Joshua and Cleburne, dipped into cocaine and methamphetamine for a while, and in 1997, at age 18, agreed to help his friends pawn jewelry and other items stolen from one of the friend’s relatives.
But until he’d spent five years in and out of jail and forced rehab while on probation, he had never been violent; until then, the burglary charge that he drew for being present when the items were stolen from the friend’s grandfather’s house was the only charge ever filed on him.
A major problem for Peucker in trying since 1998 to get out of the justice system has been his inability to stay away from pot: Time and again, when he showed up at the Johnson County probation office, evidence of drugs was found in his required urine test.
But the other problem, according to some criminal justice system officers, lawyers, and civil libertarians, was his decision back in February 1998 to accept a plea agreement in the first place. It seemed a no-brainer at the time: Do 10 years probation rather than face the possibility of doing up to 20 years in prison, in a county where prosecutors are notorious for going for the max in almost every case. But the agreement put him in the same kind of almost-no-win situation that lands thousand of people in Texas prisons every year —people who, according to some experts, probably shouldn’t be there.
“I’d guess, from what I see, maybe 70 to 80 percent of the people who get probation wind up having their probation revoked,” said Lisa Williams, a parole officer in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
Nicole Porter, director of the Texas Civil Liberties Union’s prison and jail accountability project, said that doing probation in Texas is tough. “Few people can do 10 years,” she said. “Even five years is almost impossible. People simply cannot comply with the stringent requirements. I’d go as far as to say the system is set up with the intent that people will fail. People are expected to have their probation revoked.”
Peucker had even less chance than many because of where he committed his burglary. In Johnson County, said one probation officer there who asked not to be named, District Attorney Dale Hanna is “the kind of DA who insists we report even the most minor probation infraction. Kid’s late for an appointment, he’s liable to push for revocation and send that kid to jail.”
Joshua attorney Bill Mason, who represented Peucker for a time, said small towns make the problem worse because officers who see the same people over and over “finally take it personally. ... The days of the officer calling your parents and telling them you’re down at the station, well, those days are gone. Once you’re on the local cops’ radar, you are going to have a difficult time getting under it again.”
Peucker made it pretty easy for the justice system to gobble him up. The first condition of his probation agreement was to complete a 75- to 90-day “boot camp” — a military-style camp usually reserved for young offenders. If he could do the camp and the 10 years probation, the felony would disappear from his record.
But a bad back from a childhood injury prevented him from being able to stick through the boot camp. As an alternative, Peucker, who had been incarcerated for nearly four months by that time, was sentenced to 120 days on a work-release program. He was freed on weekdays from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. to do community service; nights and weekends he spent in the Johnson County jail.
Two months into the work-release program, Peucker came up positive for pot on a urine test. That netted him six months in the county jail. He got out, soon came up dirty again, and was sentenced to nine months in the Substance Abuse Felony Punishment Facility (SAFPF) in Huntsville. When he completed the program in October 1999, he was again remanded to work-release, this time to a Volunteers of America after-care program in Mansfield. He failed another urinalysis three months later, spent four more months in the Johnson County jail, and then went back for another six months in the SAFPF program.
Remanded to another work-release program, Peucker was sent on errands one day; when his probation officer couldn’t reach him there, he moved to have Peucker’s probation revoked. That meant the burglary conviction went on his permanent record, and he was sentenced to five years in prison, on top of the nearly four years in work-release, jail, and prison rehab that he had already done. He served 14 months, was credited with the eight months he’d spent waiting in Johnson County Jail for his case to come up, and was released on parole in late 1993.
He stayed clean for more than a year. But in May 2005, he failed another urine test, and the police picked him up. According to police reports, Peucker, handcuffed and with 135 pounds on a six-foot frame, tried to head-butt two officers as he was being escorted into the Johnson County jail. It was the first suggestion of violence in Peucker’s history with the criminal justice system.
He was charged with retaliation, a felony, and sat in the Johnson County jail from May 2005 until August 2006, when he accepted a plea agreement for two years in prison. He should be out sometime in 2007, with no more parole to do.
When he gets out this time, though, it will be a different Ryan Peucker than the 18-year-old who went inside in 1998. He now sports a lot of anger and full-sleeve tattoos that will mark him as a former inmate for the rest of his life. He also has two felonies on his record, making it vital that he walk a line he’s never been able to walk before.
“In the past,” said Bill Miller, owner of Miller’s Books in Cleburne and a former writer for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, “we had a program here in Johnson County called HOPE that I volunteered with — Helping Open Peoples’ Eyes. The intent when it was started was to work with the inmates at the county jail here, to give them support so that they’d have a safety net when they were released.
“They’d have people to talk with when they got down. ... And everyone gets down. They have no money, they can’t get jobs. And the program worked fine. But funding got cut a few years ago, and the county had no interest in it. Now it’s a horrible situation. In the old HOPE, there were computers and even a GED program — something for these kids to reach for,” he said.
“The problem is that there is simply no funding to do anything with these kids,” said Robert Kersey, a Granbury defense lawyer who handles some cases in Johnson County. “I think you have to be creative — and the law allows it — with these young people with dirty UAs [urinalyses]. There is no reason to revoke a probation for a kid smoking pot. You can send the kid out to pick up garbage on the highway or make them do some other community service the first few times they fail.” If they keep failing, he said, they can then be sent to the state prison drug rehab unit. “The way it is just isn’t working.”
In the last year, Tarrant County has begun to think creatively. According to Tom Plumbly, director of Tarrant County Adult Probation, “The revocation rate for people out on probation is so high that it’s just a funnel for prison. And what we’ve done about it in the last year is implement a new system of progressive sanctions. When people violate probation, we’re trying to do things other than send them to jail. On a first violation, we might give them three days in jail, not three months. That sort of thing.
“But we’re also trying to see that people get the help they need for wrong decision-making. People involved in criminal actions have to change their behaviors, and our job is to help with those changes through rehabilitation. For drug offenders in Tarrant, for instance, we’ve instituted intensive day treatment, an outpatient therapy. And we’ve begun group programs where people can learn how to make better decisions. And the result is that our felony probation revocations are down 20 percent this year over last year. We’ll see if that will last over the long haul, but I contend that if you don’t make the changes in the individual — and you can’t if you don’t offer them therapy and a way to change — then they will wind up having their probation revoked and be sent to prison. And that generally doesn’t do anybody any good.”
Richard De Los Santos, a defense attorney who works in Johnson and Tarrant counties, said Peucker’s original 10-year probated sentence seemed excessive to him — but not surprising in Johnson County. “Ten years probation for pawning some stolen stuff another kid robbed from his grandfather? And more than half of that in jail and prison for smoking pot a couple of times a year?” he said. “Nobody can do 10 years, even if they change their lifestyle.”
Story: As migration time nears, be kind to our feathered friends
Being kind to migrating birds
As migration time nears, be kind to our feathered friends
07:04 AM CDT on Friday, September 15, 2006
The seasonal migration of songbirds and hummingbirds is nigh, and North Texas gardens are directly in the flight path. By being generous and thoughtful hosts, we can help more survive the perilous journey.
As migratory season begins, birds face risks from pesticide- tainted bugs or other food sources. Ground feeders such as doves face special danger from outdoor cats, too. " height=126 alt="NATALIE CAUDILL/DMN" src="http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/img/v3/09-15-2006.NHG_15doves.G301VL5KI.1.jpg" width=175>
NATALIE CAUDILL/DMN As migratory season begins, birds face risks from pesticide- tainted bugs or other food sources. Ground feeders such as doves face special danger from outdoor cats, too.
Birds become disoriented by artificial light, says the National Audubon Society, so turn off exterior and interior lights during peak migration hours of midnight to dawn.
Place bird feeders within three feet or beyond 30 feet of windows to prevent glass collisions. Many birds strike windows after being startled off a feeder, seeing escape routes mirrored in reflective glass. Birds can't get up enough speed to cause injury by slamming into glass only three feet away.
Keep feeders clean and stocked with safflower, sunflower and other high-energy seeds rather than low-quality discount-brand mixes. Fresh, clean waterers also are cri! tical. < /p>
Eliminate pesticides. Millions of birds are killed annually when birds ingest toxic insects, seeds and other food sources.
Bell the cat. Even better, keep it indoors. Ground-feeding birds such as cardinals and doves are most vulnerable.
For more information about helping sustain bird populations, see www.audubonathome.org.
Mariana Greene
Being kind to migrating birds
As migration time nears, be kind to our feathered friends
07:04 AM CDT on Friday, September 15, 2006
The seasonal migration of songbirds and hummingbirds is nigh, and North Texas gardens are directly in the flight path. By being generous and thoughtful hosts, we can help more survive the perilous journey.
As migratory season begins, birds face risks from pesticide- tainted bugs or other food sources. Ground feeders such as doves face special danger from outdoor cats, too. " height=126 alt="NATALIE CAUDILL/DMN" src="http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/img/v3/09-15-2006.NHG_15doves.G301VL5KI.1.jpg" width=175>
NATALIE CAUDILL/DMN As migratory season begins, birds face risks from pesticide- tainted bugs or other food sources. Ground feeders such as doves face special danger from outdoor cats, too.
Birds become disoriented by artificial light, says the National Audubon Society, so turn off exterior and interior lights during peak migration hours of midnight to dawn.
Place bird feeders within three feet or beyond 30 feet of windows to prevent glass collisions. Many birds strike windows after being startled off a feeder, seeing escape routes mirrored in reflective glass. Birds can't get up enough speed to cause injury by slamming into glass only three feet away.
Keep feeders clean and stocked with safflower, sunflower and other high-energy seeds rather than low-quality discount-brand mixes. Fresh, clean waterers also are cri! tical. < /p>
Eliminate pesticides. Millions of birds are killed annually when birds ingest toxic insects, seeds and other food sources.
Bell the cat. Even better, keep it indoors. Ground-feeding birds such as cardinals and doves are most vulnerable.
For more information about helping sustain bird populations, see www.audubonathome.org.
Mariana Greene
Thursday, September 21, 2006
By MAURA J. CASEY
Former Gov. Ann Richards of Texas will be remembered for her wit, her one-liners and especially for the keynote speech at the 1988 Democratic Convention, which was, in retrospect, the high point in the party’s dismal campaign for the presidency that year. To intrigued television viewers nationwide, Ms. Richards, with her big hair and big attitude, epitomized the kind of formidable woman that is a hallmark of the Lone Star State. People liked her down-home phrases. When she said, “We’re gonna tell how the cow ate the cabbage,†they believed her. She leavened a plain-spoken manner with wisecracks. Both helped elect her governor two years later.
But her political career eclipsed what Ms. Richards called “one of the great, great stories†of her life: her recovery from alcoholism and her nearly 26 years of sobriety. That triumph deserves to be more than a line in her obituary.
In so many ways, her decision to stop drinking and enter a rehabilitation program in 1980, after a painful intervention by family and friends, was necessary for her continued rise in public life. What made Ms. Richards different was her decision to be forthright about the fact that she was a recovering alcoholic. She didn’t hide it. “I like to tell people that alcoholism is one of my strengths,†she said. She was right. Alcoholics know that seeds of healthy recovery grow from the need to mend their own flaws to stay sober, one day at a time. Ms. Richards faced her imperfections fearlessly, and that enabled others to be fearless, too, if only for a little while.
She never stopped helping people. One well-known author said the first mail she received after enrolling in a rehabilitation program was an encouraging letter from Ms. Richards. A politician who left rehab and wondered how on earth he was going to avoid drinking when he got home well after midnight found Ms. Richards waiting for him when he arrived. As governor, she started treatment programs in Texas prisons. When she visited, she would tell the inmates the simple truth: “My name’s Ann, and I’m an alcoholic.†Her imperfection had become a source of inspiration for others.
Ann Richards was funny, wise and compassionate. At 73, she died too soon. But she died sober.
Former Gov. Ann Richards of Texas will be remembered for her wit, her one-liners and especially for the keynote speech at the 1988 Democratic Convention, which was, in retrospect, the high point in the party’s dismal campaign for the presidency that year. To intrigued television viewers nationwide, Ms. Richards, with her big hair and big attitude, epitomized the kind of formidable woman that is a hallmark of the Lone Star State. People liked her down-home phrases. When she said, “We’re gonna tell how the cow ate the cabbage,†they believed her. She leavened a plain-spoken manner with wisecracks. Both helped elect her governor two years later.
But her political career eclipsed what Ms. Richards called “one of the great, great stories†of her life: her recovery from alcoholism and her nearly 26 years of sobriety. That triumph deserves to be more than a line in her obituary.
In so many ways, her decision to stop drinking and enter a rehabilitation program in 1980, after a painful intervention by family and friends, was necessary for her continued rise in public life. What made Ms. Richards different was her decision to be forthright about the fact that she was a recovering alcoholic. She didn’t hide it. “I like to tell people that alcoholism is one of my strengths,†she said. She was right. Alcoholics know that seeds of healthy recovery grow from the need to mend their own flaws to stay sober, one day at a time. Ms. Richards faced her imperfections fearlessly, and that enabled others to be fearless, too, if only for a little while.
She never stopped helping people. One well-known author said the first mail she received after enrolling in a rehabilitation program was an encouraging letter from Ms. Richards. A politician who left rehab and wondered how on earth he was going to avoid drinking when he got home well after midnight found Ms. Richards waiting for him when he arrived. As governor, she started treatment programs in Texas prisons. When she visited, she would tell the inmates the simple truth: “My name’s Ann, and I’m an alcoholic.†Her imperfection had become a source of inspiration for others.
Ann Richards was funny, wise and compassionate. At 73, she died too soon. But she died sober.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Banking online? Guard your money and data
02:42 PM CDT on Monday, September 4, 2006
From Staff and Wire Reports
Despite this being the age of identity theft and online scams, more brick-and-mortar banks are offering their customers products and services for banking on the Web.
Plus, Internet banks, which have no physical branches, are gaining popularity, since they often pass along their lower overhead costs to consumers in the form of high interest rates on deposits.
The number of Americans banking online grew to 40 million in the fourth quarter of 2005, a 27 percent increase over the previous year, according to comScore Networks, a research organization that studies consumer Internet behavior.
Banking online can save you money and often is convenient. Consumers have good reason to bank online - online transactions can often save you money, and their convenience can't be beat. But it's wise to be extra cautious when handling your money over the Web. Follow these tips to ensure online safety:
•When handling money online, make sure you only deal with secure Web sites. You'll know A site is secure if you can see the padlock symbol in the bottom right corner of your Web browser window. Click the padlock for security details.
•Ensure that your computer is secure — Always use the “password protect” feature to make sure only you can access the information stored there.
•Many banks and shopping sites offer to “remember your password” — ignore those offers to prevent other computer users from accessing your information.
•Avoid accessing your account from a public computer., but If you must, when you're done banking clear the computer's “history” and delete its “temporary Internet files.,” (usually available under “Internet options” in Internet Explorer), to prevent the next computer user from possibly seeing your sensitive data.
•Change your passwords regularly.
•Never send credit card or account details by e-mail. Be aware of “phishing” scams, as well: If you receive an e-mail asking you to follow a link to a Web site where you must input your information, it's probably a scam. Banks will not ask you via e-mail to update your account information.
•Always print your transaction receipts and file them with your bank records until you receive confirmation in your bank statement.
Be aware that not all virtual banks are insured by the FDIC — some may be chartered overseas. To check whether your Internet bank is insured, visit the FDIC's Bank Find Web site at http://www2.fdic.gov/idasp/main_bankfind.asp.
02:42 PM CDT on Monday, September 4, 2006
From Staff and Wire Reports
Despite this being the age of identity theft and online scams, more brick-and-mortar banks are offering their customers products and services for banking on the Web.
Plus, Internet banks, which have no physical branches, are gaining popularity, since they often pass along their lower overhead costs to consumers in the form of high interest rates on deposits.
The number of Americans banking online grew to 40 million in the fourth quarter of 2005, a 27 percent increase over the previous year, according to comScore Networks, a research organization that studies consumer Internet behavior.
Banking online can save you money and often is convenient. Consumers have good reason to bank online - online transactions can often save you money, and their convenience can't be beat. But it's wise to be extra cautious when handling your money over the Web. Follow these tips to ensure online safety:
•When handling money online, make sure you only deal with secure Web sites. You'll know A site is secure if you can see the padlock symbol in the bottom right corner of your Web browser window. Click the padlock for security details.
•Ensure that your computer is secure — Always use the “password protect” feature to make sure only you can access the information stored there.
•Many banks and shopping sites offer to “remember your password” — ignore those offers to prevent other computer users from accessing your information.
•Avoid accessing your account from a public computer., but If you must, when you're done banking clear the computer's “history” and delete its “temporary Internet files.,” (usually available under “Internet options” in Internet Explorer), to prevent the next computer user from possibly seeing your sensitive data.
•Change your passwords regularly.
•Never send credit card or account details by e-mail. Be aware of “phishing” scams, as well: If you receive an e-mail asking you to follow a link to a Web site where you must input your information, it's probably a scam. Banks will not ask you via e-mail to update your account information.
•Always print your transaction receipts and file them with your bank records until you receive confirmation in your bank statement.
Be aware that not all virtual banks are insured by the FDIC — some may be chartered overseas. To check whether your Internet bank is insured, visit the FDIC's Bank Find Web site at http://www2.fdic.gov/idasp/main_bankfind.asp.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
"It is the Law that any difficulties that can come to you at any time, no matter what they are, must be exactly what you need most at the moment, to enable you to take the next step forward by overcoming them.The only real misfortune, the only real tragedy, comes when we suffer without learning the lesson."~ Emmet Fox
Sunday, September 17, 2006
PLEASE FORWARD TO EVERYONE THAT YOU KNOW IN THE AREA!
ALERT sponsored by:
LOST DOG ALERT
Lost Sep 14, 2006 in Plano, Texas
Growly
Breed Unknown Medium (20 - 50 lbs) Red Male
Last seen in:
Plano, Texas Laurel Lane between Rigsbee and Park More Info: http://dogdetective.com/dogs/925893.html
Phone: 469-396-6505
ALERT sponsored by:
LOST DOG ALERT
Lost Sep 14, 2006 in Plano, Texas
Growly
Breed Unknown Medium (20 - 50 lbs) Red Male
Last seen in:
Plano, Texas Laurel Lane between Rigsbee and Park More Info: http://dogdetective.com/dogs/925893.html
Phone: 469-396-6505
Saturday, September 16, 2006
I See You! A few days before his proctological exam, a one eyed man accidentally swallowed his glass eye. He was worried for a while, but there were noill effects, so he forgot about it.
Once he was in the doctor's office, the man followed instructions, undressed, and bent over. The first thing the proctologist saw when he looked up the man's arse was that eye staring right back at him. "You know, " said the doctor, "you really have to learn to trust me."
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Sent: Monday, September 11, 2006 2:16 AMSubject: URGENT - PTS LISTS BEING PUBLISHED: CARROLLTON ANIMAL SERVICES, LITTLE ELM ANIMAL SERVICES; UPDATES ON HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES - 09/11/06
PLS. CROSS POST & HELP IF YOU CAN.
CARROLLTON ANIMAL SERVICES
(Please scroll down for Little Elm Animal Services & Hickory Creek Animal Services)
PTS List now posted for Carrollton Animal Services. Must be tagged or pulled prior to COB Tuesday, 9/12 at 6pm.
972-466-3420 x3 to tag.
PLEASE HELP IF YOU HAVE ANY AVAILABILITY FOR EVEN ONE - THIS IS A GREAT GROUP OF CATS & DOGS. SHELTER IS VERY FULL RIGHT NOW.
2 baby kittens (Divot/Ginsu)
7 older kittens/young cats
Lil' Girl - Very young, petite Torti
Butter - Torti, big round Birman type eyes
Isabella - Scottish Fold (special breed with ears that fold forward- these can be expensive cats to purchase from a breeder)
Tammy - White with Tabby Marking (Beautiful)
Cinnamon - Grey Tiger Tabby (Spayed, Likes Dogs)
Priscilla - Grey & White Tabby (Declawed, Spayed)
Sylvester - Very young Tabby & White (Neutered, Front Declawed, Bushy Tail)
7 dogs
Sally / Alvin - Akitas (easy-going, mild-mannered, sweet dogs)
Chili - 8 yr old female German Shepherd (owner release, beautiful dog, requires daily thyroid medication)
Collie - Rough Collie (darling sweet older girl)
Emmitt - MinPin (owner release with buddy Llasa that has already been adopted, 11 yrs old, housetrained, likes cats & dogs)
Hotshot - Pointer Mix, friendly & very engaging personality
Coco - Terrier Mix, friendly & very sweet & affectionate Note that the shelter will take emails to Joe.Skenesky@cityofcarrollton.com right up until 7am Wednesday 9/13. KITTENS/CATS BUTTER, F, TORTI, ID 13733 Butter is a beautiful young Torti and she has the prettiest sweet round eyes, much like a Birman. She is a VERY SWEET girl!!!!!!!! Per the shelter she is quiet & affectionate. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. DIVOT, F, BABY BLACK, ID 13743 GINSU, F, BABY BLACK, ID 13742 These sweet kittens were dumped in front of the local Lowe's. They are about 6-8 weeks old and very sweet & very friendly & well-socialized. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. ISABELLA, F, SCOTTISH FOLD, ID 13745 Isabella was found wandering the streets. This breed is actually an expensive breed and the shelter has listed this kitty with the rescue network for Scottish folds but no takers and this kitty only has two more days. This is a friendly & loving girl! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. CINNAMON, F, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13750 Cinnamon was released by her owner after having her for only four months, because her other cat that she had had much longer did not like her. Per the previous owner's input, Cinnamon is a wonderful sweet girl that loves kids, other cats, and gets along well WITH DOGS!! She's ALREADY SPAYED. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. PRISCILLA, F, GREY & WHITE TABBY, ID 13753 Priscilla's owners moved away and couldn't keep her so they gave her to a neighbor. After a couple of months and trips to the hospital for severe allergic reaction to cat hair, the new owners decided to turn her over to our shelter. Priscilla is ALREADY SPAYED and HAS ALL 4 PAWS DECLAWED. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. TAMMY, F, WHITE WITH TABBY MARKINGS, ID 13757 Tammy is an absolutely gorgeous kitty found out and about as a stray. She's a big sweetie per the shelter and loves attention & affection & is very easygoing. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. LIL' GIRL, F, BABY TORTI, ID 13763 This is the most darling little kitty! Cute, sweet, and very petite! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. SYLVESTER, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13776 Sylvester was released by his owner who was getting married to someone who was allergic to him. He is 2 years old, likes other cats and is great with kids! ALREADY NEUTERED & FRONT DECLAWED! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. IF THE SHELTER BECOMES TOO CROWDED, JUST AS IT DID LAST WEEK WHEN THE SHELTER ADDED SEVERAL CATS & DOGS WHOSE FIRST & LAST DAY FOR AVAILABILITY WAS TUESDAY 9/5, THE CATS/KITTENS BELOW ARE ALSO AT RISK. THEY INCLUDE: JINX, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13777 Jinx surprised the shelter employees by walking in the back door of the shelter like he owned the place. He is a very friendly lovable guy! AVAILABLE NOW. NORTH, M, BABY BLACK, ID 13779 North was found as a little stray and is as cute as he can be! (Note: his age appears to possibly be incorrect on petfinder - he appears to just be a big kitten. AVAILABLE TUESDAY 9/12! KETZEL, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13780 Ketzel was dropped off at a local vet with no id. REALLY a cute kitty with a big pretty bushy tail!!. ALREADY NEUTERED. HE'S AVAILABLE TUESDAY 9/12. 2 PICS. PUPPIES/DOGS COLLIE, F, ROUGH COLLIE, ID 13774 Very sad situation - this is a wonderful quite & sweet girl, appears to be older and found as a stray. If this isn't bad enough luck, it appears the shelter missed getting her picture published on petfinder, so no one has even known she was available for adoption. Sweet girl ...ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. CHILI, F, GERMAN SHEPHERD, ID 13754 Another very sad situation - Chili is a beautiful large German Shepherd, released by her owner. She is CURRENT on rabies vaccination and has had obedience training! FYI, she need to take daily thyroid medication or be taken to a vet to discuss whether there are alternatives (surgery?). Can you help save this sweet girl? Such a beautiful dog ...ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. HOTSHOT, M, Pointer Mix, ID 13738Hotshot is a very playful 1 year old dog. He gets along well with other dogs and people and is very friendly & sweet. He is ALREADY NEUTERED. This is a cute, sweet, funny & lovable dog!!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. SALLY, F, AKITA, ID 13758 Sally is a beautiful and sweet full Akita. She was found with Alvin (Akita pictured below) running around but with no ID. Per the shelter, she is a mild mannered dog, that seems to get along well with other animals and is very easy going. GREAT LOOKING DOG!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. ALVIN, M, AKITA, ID 13759 Alvin is a really beautiful and sweet full Akita. He was found with Sally (Akita pictured above) running around but with no ID. Like Sally, he is mild-mannered and gets along well with other dogs. GREAT LOOKING DOG!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. COCO, F, BORDER TERRIER, ID 13760
Coco was brought in as a stray and if you could see her in person you would see what a beautiful shade of brown she is. Per the shelter, Coco is a very friendly, happy, social dog, that gets along well with other animals. She's a medium size dog AND MUCH prettier than the picturea show. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. EMMITT, M, MINIATURE PINSCHER (FULL), ID 13782 Really a sad situation here - Emmit is an 11 yr old very lovable little chubby MinPin that was released to the shelter with his buddy Dusty (Llasa - already adopted) when his previous owner could not afford the pet deposit. He's very friendly, GREAT WITH CATS, kids, and ALREADY HOUSETRAINED. He's also ALREADY NEUTERED. Do you have room in your heart for this great little older dog? ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. PETUNIA, F, BASSET HOUND, ID 13740 Petunia was found as a stray by a family. They worked for a week to try and find her owners. In the end they could not find her owners or keep her themselves so they turned her over to the shelter. Petunia is just under a year old and very well mannered. Per the shelter she deals very well with new situations. She's a very sweet dog! NOTE: THIS DOG WAS NOT ON PTS LIST SENT FRIDAY BY THE SHELTER, BUT HER AVAILABILITY DATE PUTS HER AT EXTREME RISK - SO IN CASE THIS IS AN OVERSIGHT SO SHE"S BEING INCLUDED SINCE HER PICTURE IS STILL ON PETFINDER - PLEASE CHECK FOR AVAILABILITY - MAY ONLY be available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. BOGART, M, ROTTWEILER, ID 13604 Bogart was found standing in the front yard of a vacant house that was up for sale. This beautiful dog greeted the shelter AC officers that found him with a wagging tail and good manners. He is 80+ lbs and just beautiful. He appears to be a young dog. He will sit and stay on command and it appears HE IS HOUSETRAINED. Bogart even has a micro chip but when his previous owners moved they didn't change the information on his chip. This microchip can be converted to where he's under your name. NOTE: THIS DOG WAS NOT ON PTS LIST SENT FRIDAY BY THE SHELTER, BUT HIS AVAILABILITY DATE PUTS HIM AT EXTREME RISK - SO IN CASE THIS IS AN OVERSIGHT SO HE"S BEING INCLUDED SINCE HIS PICTURE IS STILL ON PETFINDER - PLEASE CHECK FOR AVAILABILITY - MAY ONLY be available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. IF THE SHELTER BECOMES TOO CROWDED, JUST AS IT DID LAST WEEK WHEN THE SHELTER ADDED SEVERAL CATS & DOGS WHOSE FIRST & LAST DAY FOR AVAILABILITY WAS TUESDAY 9/5, THE PUPS/DOGS BELOW ARE ALSO AT RISK. THEY INCLUDE: SHELBY, F, BLACK LABRADOR PUP (FULL), ID 13761 Shelby is a wiggly big pup that appears to be a full black lab. She was found as a stray and brought in and appears to not be more than 6 months old. Sweet lovable pup!!! PIC isn't the best, since her eyes are slightly close (smiling) but you can still see how very pretty she is! AVAILABLE NOW! ZAP, M, SHEPHERD MIX, ID 13775 This is absolutely the cutest guy!!! Zap was found wearing the wrong tag on his collar! The tag did not belong to him and had been tied with string. This young guy appears to be about 10 months to a year old. REALLY GREAT YOUNG DOG!! AVAILABLE NOW! TWO PICS! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------LITTLE ELM ANIMAL SERVICES LITTLE ELM's PTS List & date not yet confirmed at this emailing, so listing pics of all that may be at risk. Please note that when I spoke to the shelter last Friday, they told me there were pictures not yet published, so it's possible this may not be entire listing at this time. CALL CYNTHIA MEDRANO AT 214-975-0460 TO TAG. IF YOU REQUIRE TRANSPORT, REPLY TO THIS EMAILING AND WE"LL FIND YOU SOMEONE.
4 older kittens
Skyler (F, black, very sweet & friendly, very talkative)
Abbey, Katie, Gracie (F siblings, Tabby & Torti, very loving)
5 pups/dogs
Dottie (F, Gorgeous full English Setter)
Royal (M, Young Springer Spaniel or Border Collie Mix?)
Auto (M, Small sweet Chow dog)
Nyla (F, Spayed Pit Bull, Housetrained, loving)
Roxie (F, Boxer/Pit Bull mix, Housetrained, loving) KITTENS/CATS SKYLER, F, BLACK, ID 13733 Skyler is a very sweet cat that likes to be held. When you open the cage door she will practically jump in your arms to be held! Visited the shelter today and she's as cute as can be. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. KATIE, F, BIG KITTEN - GREY TIGER TABBY ABBEY, F, BIG KITTEN - GREY TIGER TABBY GRACIE, F, BIG KITTEN - TORTOISE SHELL Katie, Abbey, and Gracie came in together. They were siblings left at the shelter. They are all very well sweet, loving, friendly & well-socialized! MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. PUPPIES/DOGS DOTTIE, F, ENGLISH SETTER Sweet girl found as a stray. Absolutely gorgeous dog! MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. ROYAL, M, SPRINGER SPANIEL OR BORDER COLLIE MIX? Friendly cute young boy. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. AUTO, M, CHOW This is a really pretty dog! He's a sweet boy, but scared about being in the shelter environment. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. NYLA, F, PIT BULL ROXIE, F, BOXER/PIT BULL MIX These two were owner surrenders due to the owners not being able to keep the dogs in their apartment. They are big babies, housetrained and Nyla is already spayed (Roxie may be as well - please doublecheck). Nyla has beautiful blue eyes and both dogs seem very sweet.MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. ADDRESS: 1104 W. Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068 HOURS: SHELTER IS OPEN TUESDAY FRIDAY (8am-5pm). Monday (8am-5pm) and Saturday (8am-12pm) BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Must call prior to pick-up. RESCUE GROUPS: No fees, no requirements. Just need a 501c3 to pull and pull email or letter. GENERAL PUBLIC ADOPTION FEES: Only a $10 adoption fee, with requirements to spay/neuter within an appropriate time period. DIRECTIONS: North on Dallas North Tollway/Dallas Parkway, turn left heading west/northwest on Eldorado Pkwy all the way to Little Elm OR go up the Tollway, west on Parker till you reach Josey, turn right heading North on Josey right through The Colony (Josey is renamed Main St. in The Colony). Continue North to Eldorado Pkwy in Little Elm, turn left heading west to the Fina Station. Shelter is at end of Fina Gas Station bldg (last door on left). You need to call to gain access - 214-975-0460. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES UPDATE ON ANGEL, Senior Collie, AT HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES: A rescue home had been arranged for Angel the Senior Collie at Hickory Creek Animal Services & she was to have been transported on Sunday to her new home in Glen Rose, TX but she now has a home in her own home town of Hickory Creek, TX! You'll remember hearing that Angel had lost her home, her dog friend Bunny, and her owner to cancer, and did not do well in the shelter environment so Hickory Creek AC had allowed her to stay with a local city council person at his home so she would not grieve or pine away in a caged situation. We had the opportunity to speak to this gentleman last Thursday & Friday and attempt to explain how rescue groups operate, transport, etc. since we understood he had previously turned away another rescue group that had recently stepped forward to help and had come by his home to meet the dog. (Our apologies to whomever this was) It became clear in our conversation with this gentleman that he had grown very attached to the dog himself, although he was very firm about her needing a new home since he owned other dogs. When it came down to the wire, this resident made a decision this Saturday he would adopt Angel himself, which is great news for this sweet old girl. Hickory Creek AC wished to express their gratitude and appreciation from those of you that stepped forward in rescue to help, and they also wished to apologize that not everyone was well-informed about how rescue groups operate in their small town and wanted to thank everyone that helped by stepping up and also be taking the time to explain. They expressed repeatedly how very much they NEED the help & support of rescue and this situation was highly unusual when it became clear the resident didn't think anyone was quite right for the dog, due to becoming attached to the dog himself and only when he realized he was truly losing her, did he realize how much he loved her. Special thanks to Jodie for wanting to rescue this girl & to Maria for offering transport to Glen Rose. Can't begin to thank you both enough. Also much thanks to whomever the other rescue group was that was turned away. So sorry I do not have your name - only that it was an SPCA group. MUCH THANKS!! This is a happy ending to a long story over the last few months for Angel Collie that had even resulted in her picture being sent to a national judge of Collies to provide confirmation she was full Collie (she is!). TO TAG CARLOS OR PARKER PICTURED BELOW, PLEASE CALL KEN with HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES AT 940-465-7444. IF YOU REQUIRE TRANSPORT, REPLY TO THIS EMAILING OR CALL 214-906-7680. HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES IS A SHORT DRIVE NORTH - JUST NORTH OF LAKE LEWISVILLE ON THE SOUTHBOUND I-35 ACCESS ROAD. KITTENS/CATS CARLOS, M, WHITE WITH TABBY MARKINGS Carlos is confident and sweet and cuter than cute. His picture should definitely be under the word "playful". Please help rescue this kitten out of the shelter cage situation. He deserves to find a wonderful new home. PUPPIES/DOGSPARKER, M, AUSSIE OR BORDER COLLIE/BLUE HEELER MIX?This is the absolute sweetest dog you will meet - we guarantee it! He is wonderful, friendly, energetic, and just looking for someone to love. Not to mention as cute as he can be. He needs someone to rescue him. Please help if you have any availability and can find this boy a great home.
PLS. CROSS POST & HELP IF YOU CAN.
CARROLLTON ANIMAL SERVICES
(Please scroll down for Little Elm Animal Services & Hickory Creek Animal Services)
PTS List now posted for Carrollton Animal Services. Must be tagged or pulled prior to COB Tuesday, 9/12 at 6pm.
972-466-3420 x3 to tag.
PLEASE HELP IF YOU HAVE ANY AVAILABILITY FOR EVEN ONE - THIS IS A GREAT GROUP OF CATS & DOGS. SHELTER IS VERY FULL RIGHT NOW.
2 baby kittens (Divot/Ginsu)
7 older kittens/young cats
Lil' Girl - Very young, petite Torti
Butter - Torti, big round Birman type eyes
Isabella - Scottish Fold (special breed with ears that fold forward- these can be expensive cats to purchase from a breeder)
Tammy - White with Tabby Marking (Beautiful)
Cinnamon - Grey Tiger Tabby (Spayed, Likes Dogs)
Priscilla - Grey & White Tabby (Declawed, Spayed)
Sylvester - Very young Tabby & White (Neutered, Front Declawed, Bushy Tail)
7 dogs
Sally / Alvin - Akitas (easy-going, mild-mannered, sweet dogs)
Chili - 8 yr old female German Shepherd (owner release, beautiful dog, requires daily thyroid medication)
Collie - Rough Collie (darling sweet older girl)
Emmitt - MinPin (owner release with buddy Llasa that has already been adopted, 11 yrs old, housetrained, likes cats & dogs)
Hotshot - Pointer Mix, friendly & very engaging personality
Coco - Terrier Mix, friendly & very sweet & affectionate Note that the shelter will take emails to Joe.Skenesky@cityofcarrollton.com right up until 7am Wednesday 9/13. KITTENS/CATS BUTTER, F, TORTI, ID 13733 Butter is a beautiful young Torti and she has the prettiest sweet round eyes, much like a Birman. She is a VERY SWEET girl!!!!!!!! Per the shelter she is quiet & affectionate. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. DIVOT, F, BABY BLACK, ID 13743 GINSU, F, BABY BLACK, ID 13742 These sweet kittens were dumped in front of the local Lowe's. They are about 6-8 weeks old and very sweet & very friendly & well-socialized. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. ISABELLA, F, SCOTTISH FOLD, ID 13745 Isabella was found wandering the streets. This breed is actually an expensive breed and the shelter has listed this kitty with the rescue network for Scottish folds but no takers and this kitty only has two more days. This is a friendly & loving girl! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. CINNAMON, F, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13750 Cinnamon was released by her owner after having her for only four months, because her other cat that she had had much longer did not like her. Per the previous owner's input, Cinnamon is a wonderful sweet girl that loves kids, other cats, and gets along well WITH DOGS!! She's ALREADY SPAYED. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. PRISCILLA, F, GREY & WHITE TABBY, ID 13753 Priscilla's owners moved away and couldn't keep her so they gave her to a neighbor. After a couple of months and trips to the hospital for severe allergic reaction to cat hair, the new owners decided to turn her over to our shelter. Priscilla is ALREADY SPAYED and HAS ALL 4 PAWS DECLAWED. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. TAMMY, F, WHITE WITH TABBY MARKINGS, ID 13757 Tammy is an absolutely gorgeous kitty found out and about as a stray. She's a big sweetie per the shelter and loves attention & affection & is very easygoing. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. LIL' GIRL, F, BABY TORTI, ID 13763 This is the most darling little kitty! Cute, sweet, and very petite! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. SYLVESTER, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13776 Sylvester was released by his owner who was getting married to someone who was allergic to him. He is 2 years old, likes other cats and is great with kids! ALREADY NEUTERED & FRONT DECLAWED! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. IF THE SHELTER BECOMES TOO CROWDED, JUST AS IT DID LAST WEEK WHEN THE SHELTER ADDED SEVERAL CATS & DOGS WHOSE FIRST & LAST DAY FOR AVAILABILITY WAS TUESDAY 9/5, THE CATS/KITTENS BELOW ARE ALSO AT RISK. THEY INCLUDE: JINX, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13777 Jinx surprised the shelter employees by walking in the back door of the shelter like he owned the place. He is a very friendly lovable guy! AVAILABLE NOW. NORTH, M, BABY BLACK, ID 13779 North was found as a little stray and is as cute as he can be! (Note: his age appears to possibly be incorrect on petfinder - he appears to just be a big kitten. AVAILABLE TUESDAY 9/12! KETZEL, M, GREY TIGER TABBY, ID 13780 Ketzel was dropped off at a local vet with no id. REALLY a cute kitty with a big pretty bushy tail!!. ALREADY NEUTERED. HE'S AVAILABLE TUESDAY 9/12. 2 PICS. PUPPIES/DOGS COLLIE, F, ROUGH COLLIE, ID 13774 Very sad situation - this is a wonderful quite & sweet girl, appears to be older and found as a stray. If this isn't bad enough luck, it appears the shelter missed getting her picture published on petfinder, so no one has even known she was available for adoption. Sweet girl ...ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. CHILI, F, GERMAN SHEPHERD, ID 13754 Another very sad situation - Chili is a beautiful large German Shepherd, released by her owner. She is CURRENT on rabies vaccination and has had obedience training! FYI, she need to take daily thyroid medication or be taken to a vet to discuss whether there are alternatives (surgery?). Can you help save this sweet girl? Such a beautiful dog ...ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. HOTSHOT, M, Pointer Mix, ID 13738Hotshot is a very playful 1 year old dog. He gets along well with other dogs and people and is very friendly & sweet. He is ALREADY NEUTERED. This is a cute, sweet, funny & lovable dog!!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. SALLY, F, AKITA, ID 13758 Sally is a beautiful and sweet full Akita. She was found with Alvin (Akita pictured below) running around but with no ID. Per the shelter, she is a mild mannered dog, that seems to get along well with other animals and is very easy going. GREAT LOOKING DOG!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. ALVIN, M, AKITA, ID 13759 Alvin is a really beautiful and sweet full Akita. He was found with Sally (Akita pictured above) running around but with no ID. Like Sally, he is mild-mannered and gets along well with other dogs. GREAT LOOKING DOG!! ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 3 PICS. COCO, F, BORDER TERRIER, ID 13760
Coco was brought in as a stray and if you could see her in person you would see what a beautiful shade of brown she is. Per the shelter, Coco is a very friendly, happy, social dog, that gets along well with other animals. She's a medium size dog AND MUCH prettier than the picturea show. ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. EMMITT, M, MINIATURE PINSCHER (FULL), ID 13782 Really a sad situation here - Emmit is an 11 yr old very lovable little chubby MinPin that was released to the shelter with his buddy Dusty (Llasa - already adopted) when his previous owner could not afford the pet deposit. He's very friendly, GREAT WITH CATS, kids, and ALREADY HOUSETRAINED. He's also ALREADY NEUTERED. Do you have room in your heart for this great little older dog? ON PTS LIST - ONLY available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. PETUNIA, F, BASSET HOUND, ID 13740 Petunia was found as a stray by a family. They worked for a week to try and find her owners. In the end they could not find her owners or keep her themselves so they turned her over to the shelter. Petunia is just under a year old and very well mannered. Per the shelter she deals very well with new situations. She's a very sweet dog! NOTE: THIS DOG WAS NOT ON PTS LIST SENT FRIDAY BY THE SHELTER, BUT HER AVAILABILITY DATE PUTS HER AT EXTREME RISK - SO IN CASE THIS IS AN OVERSIGHT SO SHE"S BEING INCLUDED SINCE HER PICTURE IS STILL ON PETFINDER - PLEASE CHECK FOR AVAILABILITY - MAY ONLY be available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. BOGART, M, ROTTWEILER, ID 13604 Bogart was found standing in the front yard of a vacant house that was up for sale. This beautiful dog greeted the shelter AC officers that found him with a wagging tail and good manners. He is 80+ lbs and just beautiful. He appears to be a young dog. He will sit and stay on command and it appears HE IS HOUSETRAINED. Bogart even has a micro chip but when his previous owners moved they didn't change the information on his chip. This microchip can be converted to where he's under your name. NOTE: THIS DOG WAS NOT ON PTS LIST SENT FRIDAY BY THE SHELTER, BUT HIS AVAILABILITY DATE PUTS HIM AT EXTREME RISK - SO IN CASE THIS IS AN OVERSIGHT SO HE"S BEING INCLUDED SINCE HIS PICTURE IS STILL ON PETFINDER - PLEASE CHECK FOR AVAILABILITY - MAY ONLY be available until COB 6pm Tuesday 9/12. 2 PICS. IF THE SHELTER BECOMES TOO CROWDED, JUST AS IT DID LAST WEEK WHEN THE SHELTER ADDED SEVERAL CATS & DOGS WHOSE FIRST & LAST DAY FOR AVAILABILITY WAS TUESDAY 9/5, THE PUPS/DOGS BELOW ARE ALSO AT RISK. THEY INCLUDE: SHELBY, F, BLACK LABRADOR PUP (FULL), ID 13761 Shelby is a wiggly big pup that appears to be a full black lab. She was found as a stray and brought in and appears to not be more than 6 months old. Sweet lovable pup!!! PIC isn't the best, since her eyes are slightly close (smiling) but you can still see how very pretty she is! AVAILABLE NOW! ZAP, M, SHEPHERD MIX, ID 13775 This is absolutely the cutest guy!!! Zap was found wearing the wrong tag on his collar! The tag did not belong to him and had been tied with string. This young guy appears to be about 10 months to a year old. REALLY GREAT YOUNG DOG!! AVAILABLE NOW! TWO PICS! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------LITTLE ELM ANIMAL SERVICES LITTLE ELM's PTS List & date not yet confirmed at this emailing, so listing pics of all that may be at risk. Please note that when I spoke to the shelter last Friday, they told me there were pictures not yet published, so it's possible this may not be entire listing at this time. CALL CYNTHIA MEDRANO AT 214-975-0460 TO TAG. IF YOU REQUIRE TRANSPORT, REPLY TO THIS EMAILING AND WE"LL FIND YOU SOMEONE.
4 older kittens
Skyler (F, black, very sweet & friendly, very talkative)
Abbey, Katie, Gracie (F siblings, Tabby & Torti, very loving)
5 pups/dogs
Dottie (F, Gorgeous full English Setter)
Royal (M, Young Springer Spaniel or Border Collie Mix?)
Auto (M, Small sweet Chow dog)
Nyla (F, Spayed Pit Bull, Housetrained, loving)
Roxie (F, Boxer/Pit Bull mix, Housetrained, loving) KITTENS/CATS SKYLER, F, BLACK, ID 13733 Skyler is a very sweet cat that likes to be held. When you open the cage door she will practically jump in your arms to be held! Visited the shelter today and she's as cute as can be. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. KATIE, F, BIG KITTEN - GREY TIGER TABBY ABBEY, F, BIG KITTEN - GREY TIGER TABBY GRACIE, F, BIG KITTEN - TORTOISE SHELL Katie, Abbey, and Gracie came in together. They were siblings left at the shelter. They are all very well sweet, loving, friendly & well-socialized! MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. PUPPIES/DOGS DOTTIE, F, ENGLISH SETTER Sweet girl found as a stray. Absolutely gorgeous dog! MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. ROYAL, M, SPRINGER SPANIEL OR BORDER COLLIE MIX? Friendly cute young boy. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. AUTO, M, CHOW This is a really pretty dog! He's a sweet boy, but scared about being in the shelter environment. MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. NYLA, F, PIT BULL ROXIE, F, BOXER/PIT BULL MIX These two were owner surrenders due to the owners not being able to keep the dogs in their apartment. They are big babies, housetrained and Nyla is already spayed (Roxie may be as well - please doublecheck). Nyla has beautiful blue eyes and both dogs seem very sweet.MAY ONLY be available until 4pm Wenesday 9/13. ADDRESS: 1104 W. Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068 HOURS: SHELTER IS OPEN TUESDAY FRIDAY (8am-5pm). Monday (8am-5pm) and Saturday (8am-12pm) BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Must call prior to pick-up. RESCUE GROUPS: No fees, no requirements. Just need a 501c3 to pull and pull email or letter. GENERAL PUBLIC ADOPTION FEES: Only a $10 adoption fee, with requirements to spay/neuter within an appropriate time period. DIRECTIONS: North on Dallas North Tollway/Dallas Parkway, turn left heading west/northwest on Eldorado Pkwy all the way to Little Elm OR go up the Tollway, west on Parker till you reach Josey, turn right heading North on Josey right through The Colony (Josey is renamed Main St. in The Colony). Continue North to Eldorado Pkwy in Little Elm, turn left heading west to the Fina Station. Shelter is at end of Fina Gas Station bldg (last door on left). You need to call to gain access - 214-975-0460. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES UPDATE ON ANGEL, Senior Collie, AT HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES: A rescue home had been arranged for Angel the Senior Collie at Hickory Creek Animal Services & she was to have been transported on Sunday to her new home in Glen Rose, TX but she now has a home in her own home town of Hickory Creek, TX! You'll remember hearing that Angel had lost her home, her dog friend Bunny, and her owner to cancer, and did not do well in the shelter environment so Hickory Creek AC had allowed her to stay with a local city council person at his home so she would not grieve or pine away in a caged situation. We had the opportunity to speak to this gentleman last Thursday & Friday and attempt to explain how rescue groups operate, transport, etc. since we understood he had previously turned away another rescue group that had recently stepped forward to help and had come by his home to meet the dog. (Our apologies to whomever this was) It became clear in our conversation with this gentleman that he had grown very attached to the dog himself, although he was very firm about her needing a new home since he owned other dogs. When it came down to the wire, this resident made a decision this Saturday he would adopt Angel himself, which is great news for this sweet old girl. Hickory Creek AC wished to express their gratitude and appreciation from those of you that stepped forward in rescue to help, and they also wished to apologize that not everyone was well-informed about how rescue groups operate in their small town and wanted to thank everyone that helped by stepping up and also be taking the time to explain. They expressed repeatedly how very much they NEED the help & support of rescue and this situation was highly unusual when it became clear the resident didn't think anyone was quite right for the dog, due to becoming attached to the dog himself and only when he realized he was truly losing her, did he realize how much he loved her. Special thanks to Jodie for wanting to rescue this girl & to Maria for offering transport to Glen Rose. Can't begin to thank you both enough. Also much thanks to whomever the other rescue group was that was turned away. So sorry I do not have your name - only that it was an SPCA group. MUCH THANKS!! This is a happy ending to a long story over the last few months for Angel Collie that had even resulted in her picture being sent to a national judge of Collies to provide confirmation she was full Collie (she is!). TO TAG CARLOS OR PARKER PICTURED BELOW, PLEASE CALL KEN with HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES AT 940-465-7444. IF YOU REQUIRE TRANSPORT, REPLY TO THIS EMAILING OR CALL 214-906-7680. HICKORY CREEK ANIMAL SERVICES IS A SHORT DRIVE NORTH - JUST NORTH OF LAKE LEWISVILLE ON THE SOUTHBOUND I-35 ACCESS ROAD. KITTENS/CATS CARLOS, M, WHITE WITH TABBY MARKINGS Carlos is confident and sweet and cuter than cute. His picture should definitely be under the word "playful". Please help rescue this kitten out of the shelter cage situation. He deserves to find a wonderful new home. PUPPIES/DOGSPARKER, M, AUSSIE OR BORDER COLLIE/BLUE HEELER MIX?This is the absolute sweetest dog you will meet - we guarantee it! He is wonderful, friendly, energetic, and just looking for someone to love. Not to mention as cute as he can be. He needs someone to rescue him. Please help if you have any availability and can find this boy a great home.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
How much energy are you using?======================================================================Find out how much energy you're using 03:04 PM CDT on Sunday, September 10, 2006 Find out how much energy you're using 03:04 PM CDT on Sunday, September 10, 2006 Atmos Energy Corp. launched a Web site this week to help customers understand exactly how much energy they use and what it costs. The site goes way beyond the usual conservation tips. It includes a calculator that shows how much it costs to use various appliances. We did some calculations to give you an idea what you can learn there. Find the calculator at www.at mosenergy.com/home/energy _tips.html. Elizabeth Souder Activity Annual cost Using a coffeemaker every day $10 Cooking oatmeal every day on a gas range $5 Cooking oatmeal in a microwave $7 Grilling on a gas grill once a week all summer long $5 Using a computer and monitor 40 hours a week $70 Leaving the computer in sleep mode every night $50 Washing two loads of laundry a week $4 Drying two loads of laundry a week in an electric dryer $32 Drying two loads of laundry a week in a gas dryer $12 Heating a 2,000-square-foot, well-insulated home with a new gas furnace or boiler $403 Heating a 2,000-square-foot, poorly insulated home with a gas furnace or boiler that's more than 15 years old $613 Heating the same home with a new electric furnace $1,234 Cooling a 2,000-square-foot, well-insulated home with a new air conditioner $1,048 Cooling a poorly insulated home with an old A/C unit $1,900 Leaving an incandescent lamp on all the time $82 Leaving a compact fluorescent lamp on all the time $22 Watching a large color TV 10 hours a week $13 Using a curling iron every morning $1 Using a hair dryer every morning $30 SOURCE: Atmos Energy Calculator
Monday, September 11, 2006
Story: Grand Prairie boasts first Good Housekeeping Seal home
Good Housekeeping home
Grand Prairie boasts first Good Housekeeping Seal home
06:51 AM CDT on Friday, September 8, 2006
It's a landmark partnership, and now you can see the results.
The first home in America with the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval is now open for viewing on Waterford Drive in Grand Prairie's Grand Peninsula community.
As a collaboration with K. Hovnanian Homes, the two-story, 4,625-square-foot model home boasts four bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a wine cellar and a stacked stone double staircase.
It's stocked with Good Housekeeping Seal products, including Flavia coffee makers, Comfort Solutions mattresses, Acme Bricks, Shaw carpets and Wolmanized Outdoor Wood. The price tag is $395,000.
The home was designed and merchandised by Dallas designer Jill Esteb of JE Design Group residential interiors consulting service.
Most of the furniture in the Charleston III model home came from Wrangler Home by Flexsteel.
Visit the house for free from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.
The Grand Peninsula community is near Joe Pool Lake off Great Southwest Parkway and I-20.
For more information on and detailed directions to the Good Housekeeping/K. Hovnanian House, visit www.sealbuilt.com or www.khov.com. Or call 817-255-2828.
Good Housekeeping home
Grand Prairie boasts first Good Housekeeping Seal home
06:51 AM CDT on Friday, September 8, 2006
It's a landmark partnership, and now you can see the results.
The first home in America with the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval is now open for viewing on Waterford Drive in Grand Prairie's Grand Peninsula community.
As a collaboration with K. Hovnanian Homes, the two-story, 4,625-square-foot model home boasts four bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a wine cellar and a stacked stone double staircase.
It's stocked with Good Housekeeping Seal products, including Flavia coffee makers, Comfort Solutions mattresses, Acme Bricks, Shaw carpets and Wolmanized Outdoor Wood. The price tag is $395,000.
The home was designed and merchandised by Dallas designer Jill Esteb of JE Design Group residential interiors consulting service.
Most of the furniture in the Charleston III model home came from Wrangler Home by Flexsteel.
Visit the house for free from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.
The Grand Peninsula community is near Joe Pool Lake off Great Southwest Parkway and I-20.
For more information on and detailed directions to the Good Housekeeping/K. Hovnanian House, visit www.sealbuilt.com or www.khov.com. Or call 817-255-2828.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
The Blonde & The Coke Machine It was a really hot day and this blonde decided she would go buy a coke. She went to the coke machine and when she put her money in, a coke came out - so she kept putting money in.
And since it was such a hot day, a line had formed behind her. Finally, a guy on line said, "Will you hurry up? We're all hot and thirsty!"
And the blonde said, "No way. I'm still winning!"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
And since it was such a hot day, a line had formed behind her. Finally, a guy on line said, "Will you hurry up? We're all hot and thirsty!"
And the blonde said, "No way. I'm still winning!"
Comedy Central Daily Joke, 1775 Broadway, NY, NY 10019Copyright © 1995 - 2006 Comedy Central. All rights reserved.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
I AM YOUR DOG
Author UnknownI am your dog, and I have a little something I would like to whisper in yourear.I know that you humans lead busy lives. Some have to work. Some havechildren to raise. It always seems like you are running here and there,often much too fast, often never noticing the truly grand things in life.Look down at me now, while you sit there at your computer. See, the way mydark brown eyes look at yours. They are slightly cloudy now. That comes withage. The gray hairs are beginning to ring my soft muzzle.You smile at me; I see love in your eyes. What do you see in mine? Do yousee a spirit? A soul inside, who loves you as no other could in the world? Aspirit that would forgive all trespasses of prior wrongdoing for just asimple moment of your time?That is all I ask. To slow down, if even for a few minutes to be with me.So many times, you have been saddened by the words you read on that screen,of other of my kind, passing. Sometimes we die young and oh so quickly,sometimes so suddenly it wrenches your heart out of your throat. Sometimes,we age so slowly before your eyes that you may not even seem to know untilthe very end, when we look at you with grizzled muzzles and cataract cloudedeyes. Still the love is always there, even when we must take that longsleep, to run free in a distant land.I may not be here next week. Someday you will shed the water from youreyes, that humans have when deep grief fills their souls, and you will beangry at yourself that you did not have just "One more day" with me. BecauseI love you so, your sorrow touches my spirit and grieves me. We have NOW,together. So come, sit down here next to me on the floor, and look deep into my eyes.What do you see? If you look hard and deep enough we will talk, you and I,heart to heart. Come to me not as "alpha" or as "trainer" or even "Mom orDad," come to me as a living soul and stroke my fur and let us look deepinto another's eyes, and talk.I may tell you something about the fun of chasing a tennis ball, or I maytell you something profound about myself or even life in general. Youdecided to have me in your life because you wanted a soul to share suchthings with.Someone very different from you, and here I am.I am a dog, but I am alive. I feel emotion, I feel physical senses, and Ican revel in the differences of our spirits and souls. I do not think of youas a "Dog on two feet"- I know what you are. You are human, in all of yourquirkiness, and I love you still.Now, come sit with me on the floor. Enter my world, and let time slow downif only for 15 minutes. Look deep into my eyes, and whisper to my ears.Speak with your heart, with your joy and I will know your true self.We may not have tomorrow, and life is oh so very short.--Love, (on behalf of canines everywhere)
Author Unknown
~Until there are none, Rescue one~
Author UnknownI am your dog, and I have a little something I would like to whisper in yourear.I know that you humans lead busy lives. Some have to work. Some havechildren to raise. It always seems like you are running here and there,often much too fast, often never noticing the truly grand things in life.Look down at me now, while you sit there at your computer. See, the way mydark brown eyes look at yours. They are slightly cloudy now. That comes withage. The gray hairs are beginning to ring my soft muzzle.You smile at me; I see love in your eyes. What do you see in mine? Do yousee a spirit? A soul inside, who loves you as no other could in the world? Aspirit that would forgive all trespasses of prior wrongdoing for just asimple moment of your time?That is all I ask. To slow down, if even for a few minutes to be with me.So many times, you have been saddened by the words you read on that screen,of other of my kind, passing. Sometimes we die young and oh so quickly,sometimes so suddenly it wrenches your heart out of your throat. Sometimes,we age so slowly before your eyes that you may not even seem to know untilthe very end, when we look at you with grizzled muzzles and cataract cloudedeyes. Still the love is always there, even when we must take that longsleep, to run free in a distant land.I may not be here next week. Someday you will shed the water from youreyes, that humans have when deep grief fills their souls, and you will beangry at yourself that you did not have just "One more day" with me. BecauseI love you so, your sorrow touches my spirit and grieves me. We have NOW,together. So come, sit down here next to me on the floor, and look deep into my eyes.What do you see? If you look hard and deep enough we will talk, you and I,heart to heart. Come to me not as "alpha" or as "trainer" or even "Mom orDad," come to me as a living soul and stroke my fur and let us look deepinto another's eyes, and talk.I may tell you something about the fun of chasing a tennis ball, or I maytell you something profound about myself or even life in general. Youdecided to have me in your life because you wanted a soul to share suchthings with.Someone very different from you, and here I am.I am a dog, but I am alive. I feel emotion, I feel physical senses, and Ican revel in the differences of our spirits and souls. I do not think of youas a "Dog on two feet"- I know what you are. You are human, in all of yourquirkiness, and I love you still.Now, come sit with me on the floor. Enter my world, and let time slow downif only for 15 minutes. Look deep into my eyes, and whisper to my ears.Speak with your heart, with your joy and I will know your true self.We may not have tomorrow, and life is oh so very short.--Love, (on behalf of canines everywhere)
Author Unknown
~Until there are none, Rescue one~
Kerry: Bush needs new policy to fix 'dysfunctional' intel system, 'not a new stump speech'
RAW STORYPublished: Wednesday September 6, 2006
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After President Bush delivered his third speech on the global war on terror for the week, Democratic Senator John Kerry, in a statement received by RAW STORY, said that the Administration needs a "new policy, not a new stump speech."
"No matter how many times the President redelivers the same political speech, we need action and not words," Kerry said. "The Administration needs to focus less on a strategy to win a mid term election and more on a strategy that will win the war on terror."
Kerry slammed the Bush Administration for doing "absolutely nothing" to fix the country's "dysfunctional intelligence system" in the five years since the 9/11 attacks.
"September 11th brought home the costs of a dysfunctional intelligence system marred by bureaucratic infighting, inadequate resources, and faulty analysis," said Kerry. "But we’ve done absolutely nothing to correct it."
"The 9/11 commission just recently gave our government a failing grade on implementing intelligence reforms and our ability to intercept terrorist communications remains in legal limbo," Kerry continued. "The Administration needs a new policy, not a new stump speech."
RAW STORYPublished: Wednesday September 6, 2006
Print This Email This
After President Bush delivered his third speech on the global war on terror for the week, Democratic Senator John Kerry, in a statement received by RAW STORY, said that the Administration needs a "new policy, not a new stump speech."
"No matter how many times the President redelivers the same political speech, we need action and not words," Kerry said. "The Administration needs to focus less on a strategy to win a mid term election and more on a strategy that will win the war on terror."
Kerry slammed the Bush Administration for doing "absolutely nothing" to fix the country's "dysfunctional intelligence system" in the five years since the 9/11 attacks.
"September 11th brought home the costs of a dysfunctional intelligence system marred by bureaucratic infighting, inadequate resources, and faulty analysis," said Kerry. "But we’ve done absolutely nothing to correct it."
"The 9/11 commission just recently gave our government a failing grade on implementing intelligence reforms and our ability to intercept terrorist communications remains in legal limbo," Kerry continued. "The Administration needs a new policy, not a new stump speech."
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Convicted Arlington psychiatrist has license revoked
By JAN JARVIS
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
The state medical board has revoked the license of Arlington psychiatrist Donald Hughes who in 2004 was accused of inappropriate sexual contact with three juvenile patients. Hughes also has been sentenced to three five-year prison terms after he pleaded guilty to three charges of indecency with a child.
Hughes, 55, practiced in Arlington and Fort Worth. The Texas Medical Board also ordered him to pay a $55,000 penalty and nearly $2,400 in transcript costs. The decision comes two years after Hughes' license was suspended by the board after the panel deemed that allowing him to continue practicing medicine would pose a public threat.
Hughes was among seven Tarrant County doctors of the 99 disciplined since June by the board.
In his case, the board’s decision followed a hearing by an administrative law judge and was based on findings that “Hughes committed unprofessional or dishonorable conduct that injured the public, that he became personally and financially involved with a patient and that he engaged in sexual contact with patients,” according to board records.
Hughes may file a motion for rehearing within 20 days of entering of the order by the board. If the motion for rehearing is filed and the board denies it, the order is final.
By JAN JARVIS
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
The state medical board has revoked the license of Arlington psychiatrist Donald Hughes who in 2004 was accused of inappropriate sexual contact with three juvenile patients. Hughes also has been sentenced to three five-year prison terms after he pleaded guilty to three charges of indecency with a child.
Hughes, 55, practiced in Arlington and Fort Worth. The Texas Medical Board also ordered him to pay a $55,000 penalty and nearly $2,400 in transcript costs. The decision comes two years after Hughes' license was suspended by the board after the panel deemed that allowing him to continue practicing medicine would pose a public threat.
Hughes was among seven Tarrant County doctors of the 99 disciplined since June by the board.
In his case, the board’s decision followed a hearing by an administrative law judge and was based on findings that “Hughes committed unprofessional or dishonorable conduct that injured the public, that he became personally and financially involved with a patient and that he engaged in sexual contact with patients,” according to board records.
Hughes may file a motion for rehearing within 20 days of entering of the order by the board. If the motion for rehearing is filed and the board denies it, the order is final.
Man arrested in death of McKinney real estate agent
By MATT JOYCE
The Associated Press
NBC5i.com
Kosoul Chanthakoummane, 25, was arrested on a charge of capital murder late Tuesday in connection with the death of Sarah Anne Walker, said Capt. Randy Roland of the McKinney Police Department.
More photosMcKINNEY - Police on Wednesday announced the arrest of a suspect in the July slaying of a real estate agent who was found stabbed to death in a model home.
Kosoul Chanthakoummane, 25, was arrested on a charge of capital murder late Tuesday in connection with the death of Sarah Anne Walker, said Capt. Randy Roland of the McKinney Police Department.
Chanthakoummane was arrested at his Dallas apartment and was being held Wednesday morning on $1 million bond, Roland said.
A house-hunting couple found Walker's body July 8 in the kitchen of a model home in the fast-growing suburb of McKinney, about 30 miles north of Dallas. The 40-year-old agent had been stabbed 27 times in what detective described as an unusually ferocious attack.
The slaying rattled real estate agents who work open houses alone and worried nearby residents living in the kind of new, extravagant homes Walker sold.
Roland said a combination of detective work, witness statements and forensic evidence led investigators to Chanthakoummane.
The McKinney police released a composite sketch a couple of weeks ago based on witness statements, Roland said. The sketch prompted a tip that led police to Chanthakoummane, he said.
Roland said Chanthakoummane is the only suspect in the case.
Further details of the case, including a motive for the slaying or any possible relationship between Chanthakoummane and Walker, were not available early Wednesday. Roland said a press conference was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon to discuss the arrest.
Detectives began interviewing Chanthakoummane after he was arrested, but the interview was stopped when he requested a lawyer, Roland said.
Walker, a twice-divorced mother of two children, was a top-seller for home builder D.R. Horton. She earned free vacations for the high volume of brick-and-slab homes she closed.
Early in the investigation, police said Walker's slaying did not appear to be random and that the her wide network of acquaintances made the investigation more challenging.
The case was featured on the television show "America's Most Wanted" in July.
By MATT JOYCE
The Associated Press
NBC5i.com
Kosoul Chanthakoummane, 25, was arrested on a charge of capital murder late Tuesday in connection with the death of Sarah Anne Walker, said Capt. Randy Roland of the McKinney Police Department.
More photosMcKINNEY - Police on Wednesday announced the arrest of a suspect in the July slaying of a real estate agent who was found stabbed to death in a model home.
Kosoul Chanthakoummane, 25, was arrested on a charge of capital murder late Tuesday in connection with the death of Sarah Anne Walker, said Capt. Randy Roland of the McKinney Police Department.
Chanthakoummane was arrested at his Dallas apartment and was being held Wednesday morning on $1 million bond, Roland said.
A house-hunting couple found Walker's body July 8 in the kitchen of a model home in the fast-growing suburb of McKinney, about 30 miles north of Dallas. The 40-year-old agent had been stabbed 27 times in what detective described as an unusually ferocious attack.
The slaying rattled real estate agents who work open houses alone and worried nearby residents living in the kind of new, extravagant homes Walker sold.
Roland said a combination of detective work, witness statements and forensic evidence led investigators to Chanthakoummane.
The McKinney police released a composite sketch a couple of weeks ago based on witness statements, Roland said. The sketch prompted a tip that led police to Chanthakoummane, he said.
Roland said Chanthakoummane is the only suspect in the case.
Further details of the case, including a motive for the slaying or any possible relationship between Chanthakoummane and Walker, were not available early Wednesday. Roland said a press conference was scheduled for Wednesday afternoon to discuss the arrest.
Detectives began interviewing Chanthakoummane after he was arrested, but the interview was stopped when he requested a lawyer, Roland said.
Walker, a twice-divorced mother of two children, was a top-seller for home builder D.R. Horton. She earned free vacations for the high volume of brick-and-slab homes she closed.
Early in the investigation, police said Walker's slaying did not appear to be random and that the her wide network of acquaintances made the investigation more challenging.
The case was featured on the television show "America's Most Wanted" in July.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Stingray kills famed 'Crocodile Hunter'
BRIAN CASSEY
Associated Press
AP
Steve Irwin, shown arriving at a January 2006 event in Hollywood, was killed Monday by a stingray barb during a diving expedition.
Send your condolences
CAIRNS, Australia - Steve Irwin, the hugely popular Australian television personality and conservationist known as the "Crocodile Hunter," was killed Monday by a stingray while filming off the Great Barrier Reef. He was 44.
Irwin was at Batt Reef, off the remote coast of northeastern Queensland state, shooting a segment for a series called "Ocean's Deadliest" when he swam too close to one of the animals, which have a poisonous barb on their tails, his friend and colleague John Stainton said.
"He came on top of the stingray and the stingray's barb went up and into his chest and put a hole into his heart," said Stainton, who was on board Irwin's boat at the time.
Crew members aboard the boat, Croc One, called emergency services in the nearest city, Cairns, and administered CPR as they rushed the boat to nearby Low Isle to meet a rescue helicopter. Medical staff pronounced Irwin dead when they arrived a short time later, Stainton said.
Irwin was famous for his enthusiasm for wildlife and his catchword "Crikey!" in his television program "Crocodile Hunter." First broadcast in Australia in 1992, the program was picked up by the Discovery network, catapulting Irwin to international celebrity.
He rode his image into a feature film, 2002's "The Crocodile Hunters: Collision Course" and developed the wildlife park that his parents opened, Australia Zoo, into a major tourist attraction.
"The world has lost a great wildlife icon, a passionate conservationist and one of the proudest dads on the planet," Stainton told reporters in Cairns. "He died doing what he loved best and left this world in a happy and peaceful state of mind. He would have said, 'Crocs Rule!'"
Prime Minister John Howard, who hand-picked Irwin to attend a gala barbecue to honor President Bush when he visited in 2003, said he was "shocked and distressed at Steve Irwin's sudden, untimely and freakish death."
"It's a huge loss to Australia," Howard told reporters. "He was a wonderful character. He was a passionate environmentalist. He brought joy and entertainment and excitement to millions of people."
Irwin, who made a trademark of hovering dangerously close to untethered crocodiles and leaping on their backs, spoke in rapid-fire bursts with a thick Australian accent and was almost never seen without his uniform of khaki shorts and shirt and heavy boots.
Wild animal expert Jack Hanna, who frequently appears on TV with his subjects, offered praise for Irwin.
"Steve was one of these guys, we thought of him as invincible," Hanna, director emeritus of the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo and Aquarium, told ABC's "Good Morning America" Monday.
"The guy was incredible. His knowledge was incredible," Hanna said. "Some people that are doing this stuff are actors and that type of thing, but Steve was truly a zoologist, so to speak, a person who knew what he was doing. Yes, he did things a lot of people wouldn't do. I think he knew what he was doing."
Irwin's ebullience was infectious and Australian officials sought him out for photo opportunities and to promote Australia internationally.
His public image was dented, however, in 2004 when he caused an uproar by holding his infant son in one arm while feeding large crocodiles inside a zoo pen. Irwin claimed at the time there was no danger to the child, and authorities declined to charge Irwin with violating safety regulations.
Later that year, he was accused of getting too close to penguins, a seal and humpback whales in Antarctica while making a documentary. Irwin denied any wrongdoing, and an Australian Environment Department investigation recommended no action be taken against him.
Stingrays have a serrated, toxin-loaded barb, or spine, on the top of their tail. The barb, which can be up to 10 inches long, flexes if a ray is frightened. Stings usually occur to people when they step on or swim too close to a ray and can be excruciatingly painful but are rarely fatal, said University of Queensland marine neuroscientist Shaun Collin.
Collin said he suspected Irwin died because the barb pierced under his ribcage and directly into his heart.
"It was extraordinarily bad luck. It's not easy to get spined by a stingray and to be killed by one is very rare," Collin said.
News of Irwin's death spread quickly, and tributes flowed from all quarters of society.
At Australia Zoo at Beerwah, south Queensland, floral tributes were dropped at the entrance, where a huge fake crocodile gapes. Drivers honked their horns as they passed.
"Steve, from all God's creatures, thank you. Rest in peace," was written on a card with a bouquet of native flowers.
"We're all very shocked. I don't know what the zoo will do without him. He's done so much for us, the environment and it's a big loss," said Paula Kelly, a local resident and volunteer at the zoo, after dropping off a wreath at the gate.
Stainton said Irwin's American-born wife Terri, from Eugene, Ore., had been informed of his death, and had told their daughter Bindi Sue, 8, and son Bob, who will turn 3 in December.
The couple met when she went on vacation in Australia in 1991 and visited Irwin's Australia Zoo; they were married six months later. Sometimes referred to as the "Crocodile Huntress," she costarred on her husband's television show and in his 2002 movie.
ON THE NET
http://www.crocodilehunter.com
BRIAN CASSEY
Associated Press
AP
Steve Irwin, shown arriving at a January 2006 event in Hollywood, was killed Monday by a stingray barb during a diving expedition.
Send your condolences
CAIRNS, Australia - Steve Irwin, the hugely popular Australian television personality and conservationist known as the "Crocodile Hunter," was killed Monday by a stingray while filming off the Great Barrier Reef. He was 44.
Irwin was at Batt Reef, off the remote coast of northeastern Queensland state, shooting a segment for a series called "Ocean's Deadliest" when he swam too close to one of the animals, which have a poisonous barb on their tails, his friend and colleague John Stainton said.
"He came on top of the stingray and the stingray's barb went up and into his chest and put a hole into his heart," said Stainton, who was on board Irwin's boat at the time.
Crew members aboard the boat, Croc One, called emergency services in the nearest city, Cairns, and administered CPR as they rushed the boat to nearby Low Isle to meet a rescue helicopter. Medical staff pronounced Irwin dead when they arrived a short time later, Stainton said.
Irwin was famous for his enthusiasm for wildlife and his catchword "Crikey!" in his television program "Crocodile Hunter." First broadcast in Australia in 1992, the program was picked up by the Discovery network, catapulting Irwin to international celebrity.
He rode his image into a feature film, 2002's "The Crocodile Hunters: Collision Course" and developed the wildlife park that his parents opened, Australia Zoo, into a major tourist attraction.
"The world has lost a great wildlife icon, a passionate conservationist and one of the proudest dads on the planet," Stainton told reporters in Cairns. "He died doing what he loved best and left this world in a happy and peaceful state of mind. He would have said, 'Crocs Rule!'"
Prime Minister John Howard, who hand-picked Irwin to attend a gala barbecue to honor President Bush when he visited in 2003, said he was "shocked and distressed at Steve Irwin's sudden, untimely and freakish death."
"It's a huge loss to Australia," Howard told reporters. "He was a wonderful character. He was a passionate environmentalist. He brought joy and entertainment and excitement to millions of people."
Irwin, who made a trademark of hovering dangerously close to untethered crocodiles and leaping on their backs, spoke in rapid-fire bursts with a thick Australian accent and was almost never seen without his uniform of khaki shorts and shirt and heavy boots.
Wild animal expert Jack Hanna, who frequently appears on TV with his subjects, offered praise for Irwin.
"Steve was one of these guys, we thought of him as invincible," Hanna, director emeritus of the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo and Aquarium, told ABC's "Good Morning America" Monday.
"The guy was incredible. His knowledge was incredible," Hanna said. "Some people that are doing this stuff are actors and that type of thing, but Steve was truly a zoologist, so to speak, a person who knew what he was doing. Yes, he did things a lot of people wouldn't do. I think he knew what he was doing."
Irwin's ebullience was infectious and Australian officials sought him out for photo opportunities and to promote Australia internationally.
His public image was dented, however, in 2004 when he caused an uproar by holding his infant son in one arm while feeding large crocodiles inside a zoo pen. Irwin claimed at the time there was no danger to the child, and authorities declined to charge Irwin with violating safety regulations.
Later that year, he was accused of getting too close to penguins, a seal and humpback whales in Antarctica while making a documentary. Irwin denied any wrongdoing, and an Australian Environment Department investigation recommended no action be taken against him.
Stingrays have a serrated, toxin-loaded barb, or spine, on the top of their tail. The barb, which can be up to 10 inches long, flexes if a ray is frightened. Stings usually occur to people when they step on or swim too close to a ray and can be excruciatingly painful but are rarely fatal, said University of Queensland marine neuroscientist Shaun Collin.
Collin said he suspected Irwin died because the barb pierced under his ribcage and directly into his heart.
"It was extraordinarily bad luck. It's not easy to get spined by a stingray and to be killed by one is very rare," Collin said.
News of Irwin's death spread quickly, and tributes flowed from all quarters of society.
At Australia Zoo at Beerwah, south Queensland, floral tributes were dropped at the entrance, where a huge fake crocodile gapes. Drivers honked their horns as they passed.
"Steve, from all God's creatures, thank you. Rest in peace," was written on a card with a bouquet of native flowers.
"We're all very shocked. I don't know what the zoo will do without him. He's done so much for us, the environment and it's a big loss," said Paula Kelly, a local resident and volunteer at the zoo, after dropping off a wreath at the gate.
Stainton said Irwin's American-born wife Terri, from Eugene, Ore., had been informed of his death, and had told their daughter Bindi Sue, 8, and son Bob, who will turn 3 in December.
The couple met when she went on vacation in Australia in 1991 and visited Irwin's Australia Zoo; they were married six months later. Sometimes referred to as the "Crocodile Huntress," she costarred on her husband's television show and in his 2002 movie.
ON THE NET
http://www.crocodilehunter.com
Monday, September 04, 2006
Story: Extra, extra! 7 tips for reusing your newspaper
Uses for newspaper
Extra, extra! 7 tips for reusing your newspaper
06:39 AM CDT on Monday, August 28, 2006Orange County Register
Heloise would be proud. People value newspaper for more than the stories, photos, graphics and puzzles. Here are some great ideas from Orange County Register readers for making use of the paper once it's been read:
1. Ripening agent: "Use newspapers to ripen tomatoes and especially avocados." Wrap the fruit or vegetable loosely in newspaper.
2. Wrap it up: "Sometimes when I'm in a hurry and forgot to buy wrapping paper, I use the comics as wrapping paper for gifts. It looks really cute."
3. Clean mirrors and windows: Nearly half of respondents lauded newspaper's ability to put that professional shine on glass. "After spraying the windows and mirrors with my favorite glass cleaners, I wipe them off with old newspapers. Be sure to wear gloves; the ink rubs off."
4. Dry out those shoes: "If I get stuck out in the rain while riding my bike, I come home and wad up sheets of newspaper and stick them into my wet cycling shoes. The shoes are made of carbon fiber and nylon materials. The moisture gets wicked into the more-porous newspaper. Sometimes I'll need to repeat the process a couple of times. The shoes are usually dry and ready to use by the next morning."
5. Seal a leak: "If you are riding your bike and have a flat tire, you can remove the inner tube and stuff the tire with torn-up newspaper. This will 'fill' the tire enough [to allow] you to ride, instead of walk, home."
6. Storage tips: "When storing, place crumpled-up newspapers in closed suitcases and coolers to keep them odor-free."
7. Pleasing place mats: "For many years, I have used sections of [the paper] as place mats for our meals. I've found this encourages reading of the paper, and I don't have to wash place mats."
Uses for newspaper
Extra, extra! 7 tips for reusing your newspaper
06:39 AM CDT on Monday, August 28, 2006Orange County Register
Heloise would be proud. People value newspaper for more than the stories, photos, graphics and puzzles. Here are some great ideas from Orange County Register readers for making use of the paper once it's been read:
1. Ripening agent: "Use newspapers to ripen tomatoes and especially avocados." Wrap the fruit or vegetable loosely in newspaper.
2. Wrap it up: "Sometimes when I'm in a hurry and forgot to buy wrapping paper, I use the comics as wrapping paper for gifts. It looks really cute."
3. Clean mirrors and windows: Nearly half of respondents lauded newspaper's ability to put that professional shine on glass. "After spraying the windows and mirrors with my favorite glass cleaners, I wipe them off with old newspapers. Be sure to wear gloves; the ink rubs off."
4. Dry out those shoes: "If I get stuck out in the rain while riding my bike, I come home and wad up sheets of newspaper and stick them into my wet cycling shoes. The shoes are made of carbon fiber and nylon materials. The moisture gets wicked into the more-porous newspaper. Sometimes I'll need to repeat the process a couple of times. The shoes are usually dry and ready to use by the next morning."
5. Seal a leak: "If you are riding your bike and have a flat tire, you can remove the inner tube and stuff the tire with torn-up newspaper. This will 'fill' the tire enough [to allow] you to ride, instead of walk, home."
6. Storage tips: "When storing, place crumpled-up newspapers in closed suitcases and coolers to keep them odor-free."
7. Pleasing place mats: "For many years, I have used sections of [the paper] as place mats for our meals. I've found this encourages reading of the paper, and I don't have to wash place mats."
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Story: Display cabinets are windows to our souls
Display cabinets
Display cabinets are windows to our souls
11:38 AM CDT on Friday, September 1, 2006By CARLA JORDAN / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
Fussy bric-a-brac keepers of yesteryear have morphed into designer display cabinets, must-haves for today's well-organized home. Originally created to keep fragile collectibles dust-free and out of curious but slippery hands, display cabinets are in demand because we keep accumulating things. In case you're wondering, the term "curio" has been replaced by "display" because they're meant to house anything people want to display, not just small collectibles.
Multiples
Sectional cabinets that stand alone or in bunches are ideal for expansive areas and hallways, creating the illusion of built-ins.
Size
Narrow depth still distinguishes a display cabinet from a bookcase, but today's heights and widths vary. Small wall-mount cabinets are good choices as well.
Design
Handsome display cabinets are found across the design spectrum, all in silhouettes to complement furnishings around them.
Finishes
Oak and dark wood finishes are now joined by painted finishes in all colors, plus unique and higher-end woods, inlays, faux finishes and gilding.
Functionality
Look for built-in storage drawers, space-saving side and sliding front doors, and high-tech lighting such as movable puck-shaped spotlights.
Carla Jordan is an Irving freelance writer.
Display cabinets
Display cabinets are windows to our souls
11:38 AM CDT on Friday, September 1, 2006By CARLA JORDAN / Special Contributor to The Dallas Morning News
Fussy bric-a-brac keepers of yesteryear have morphed into designer display cabinets, must-haves for today's well-organized home. Originally created to keep fragile collectibles dust-free and out of curious but slippery hands, display cabinets are in demand because we keep accumulating things. In case you're wondering, the term "curio" has been replaced by "display" because they're meant to house anything people want to display, not just small collectibles.
Multiples
Sectional cabinets that stand alone or in bunches are ideal for expansive areas and hallways, creating the illusion of built-ins.
Size
Narrow depth still distinguishes a display cabinet from a bookcase, but today's heights and widths vary. Small wall-mount cabinets are good choices as well.
Design
Handsome display cabinets are found across the design spectrum, all in silhouettes to complement furnishings around them.
Finishes
Oak and dark wood finishes are now joined by painted finishes in all colors, plus unique and higher-end woods, inlays, faux finishes and gilding.
Functionality
Look for built-in storage drawers, space-saving side and sliding front doors, and high-tech lighting such as movable puck-shaped spotlights.
Carla Jordan is an Irving freelance writer.
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