12.22.2011
Epic Rap Battles of History: Genghis Khan vs. The Easter Bunny
Top quote:
"You're not even in the Bible.
You're a fluffy bitch mascot
for Hallmark in denial."
12.21.2011
More Russian Hip Hop: Ву-Шоу - Как в кино (feat Маша) (Реальные пацаны)
Disclaimer: I don't speak or read Russian. They could be worshipping the moon for all I know. But it's a great song.
Ву-Шоу - Как в кино (feat Маша) (Реальные пацаны)
Epic Rap Battles of History: Justin Bieber vs. Beethoven
Look what the cat dragged
back from the dead.
Man, it looks like Chewbacca
wiped his ass on your head.
I'm the next Michael Jackson,
you smell like Bette White.
Here's some aspirin,
you're catching Bieber fever tonight.
Because my voice is incredible
and your music is terrible,
who even listens to classical anyway?
Even Elise wants to do me
and now that you're right next to me
I can understand why they used a dog to play you in the movies.
Sit down, son
and let me give you a music lesson
ask Bach,
I've got more cock than Smith & Wesson.
Never say never?
You'll never be forgetting
I've crafted masterpieces
that will last throughout the ages
You're music gets you bitches
on your Facebook pages.
I'm committing verbal murder
in the major third degree
My name is Beethoven motherfucker
maybe you heard of me?
Not the St. Bernard version,
I'm the real OG.
You want to trade blows?
You can't even hit puberty.
I got Kim Kardashian
in my bed backstage.
When's the last time your music
got anybody laid?
I got a concert in five
so there's not much time left.
What else can I say?
You're own music made you deaf.
I would smack you
but in Germany
we don't hit little girls.
And I'm glad I'm deaf
so I can't hear that piece of shit
"My World."
There's a crowd of millions
waiting to hear my symphonies,
You want to be a little white Usher,
Here, show them to their seats.
Epic Rap Battles of History: Mr. T vs. Mister Rogers
I think Mr. Rogers won this one.
"You call yourself Mr. T because you're too dumb to spell."
"You call yourself Mr. T because you're too dumb to spell."
Epic Rap Battles - Hitler vs. Darth Vader
Great stuff. YouTube's nicepeter has some terrific videos pitting various historic people against each other in rap battles. These are his Hitler v. Darth Vader videos.
It's a "can't miss."
Hitler vs. Darth Vader I
I am Adolf Hitler
Commander of the Third Reich
little know fact: also dope on the mic
You are Vader
With your little boots and cape
and helmet to cover up
that burnt-up face.
You have the force to move objects.
I am a force truly evil.
Even went back in time and tried to whack in the prequel.
Cause look at you, you're not even a real person,
I preferred you in Spaceballs,
the Rick Morenis version.
You can't rhyme against the dark side of the force,
why even bother?
So many dudes been with your mom
who even knows if I'm your father?
You're a pissed-off prick
with a Napoleon dick
You call that a mustache?
I call that Dirty Sanchez on your lip.
You bitch
Let me remind you who you're messing with
everything that you did
I'm the motherfucker who invented it.
I'm the original Dark Lord
You're like the sorcerer's apprentice
my stormtroopers make yours look like
someone took a piece of shit and cloned it.
You stink, Vader,
you're style smells something sour.
You need to wash up, dawg
here, step in my shower.
I'll turn all your friends against you
just my speeches breed haters.
What's your light saber against
a clan of all your white neighbors?
Suck my robot balls,
now take a step back
and let me freeze yours off.
A little carbonite bath for your
goose-stepping ass.
We'll call my homeboy in Israel
see who got the last laugh.
Hitler vs. Darth Vader II
It's a "can't miss."
Hitler vs. Darth Vader I
I am Adolf Hitler
Commander of the Third Reich
little know fact: also dope on the mic
You are Vader
With your little boots and cape
and helmet to cover up
that burnt-up face.
You have the force to move objects.
I am a force truly evil.
Even went back in time and tried to whack in the prequel.
Cause look at you, you're not even a real person,
I preferred you in Spaceballs,
the Rick Morenis version.
You can't rhyme against the dark side of the force,
why even bother?
So many dudes been with your mom
who even knows if I'm your father?
You're a pissed-off prick
with a Napoleon dick
You call that a mustache?
I call that Dirty Sanchez on your lip.
You bitch
Let me remind you who you're messing with
everything that you did
I'm the motherfucker who invented it.
I'm the original Dark Lord
You're like the sorcerer's apprentice
my stormtroopers make yours look like
someone took a piece of shit and cloned it.
You stink, Vader,
you're style smells something sour.
You need to wash up, dawg
here, step in my shower.
I'll turn all your friends against you
just my speeches breed haters.
What's your light saber against
a clan of all your white neighbors?
Suck my robot balls,
now take a step back
and let me freeze yours off.
A little carbonite bath for your
goose-stepping ass.
We'll call my homeboy in Israel
see who got the last laugh.
Hitler vs. Darth Vader II
12.10.2011
Parody on Perry's "Strong" Ad
Parody of Rick Perry's "Strong" ad:
Text of the parody:
"I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm an atheist, but you don't need to sleep in every Sunday to know there's something wrong in this country when Rick Perry can be openly homophobic but our kids can't openly celebrate evolution or learn science in school.
As a video blogger, I'll end Perry's war on reason. And I'll fight against conservative attacks on our rational heritage.
Logic made America strong. It can make her strong again.
I'm James Kotecki and I approve this message."
Another parody released by YouTube's The Partisans:
Another parody by YouTube's Funnyordie:
Original Perry Ad:
Text of original Perry ad:
"I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a Christian, but you don't need to be in the pew every Sunday to know there's something wrong in this country when gays can serve openly in the military but our kids can't openly celebrate Christmas or pray in school.
As President, I'll end Obama's war on religion. And I'll fight against liberal attacks on our religious heritage.
Faith made America strong. It can make her strong again.
I'm Rick Perry and I approve this message."
Removed YouTube video commenting on Rick Perry ad:
Text of the parody:
"I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm an atheist, but you don't need to sleep in every Sunday to know there's something wrong in this country when Rick Perry can be openly homophobic but our kids can't openly celebrate evolution or learn science in school.
As a video blogger, I'll end Perry's war on reason. And I'll fight against conservative attacks on our rational heritage.
Logic made America strong. It can make her strong again.
I'm James Kotecki and I approve this message."
Another parody released by YouTube's The Partisans:
Another parody by YouTube's Funnyordie:
Original Perry Ad:
Text of original Perry ad:
"I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a Christian, but you don't need to be in the pew every Sunday to know there's something wrong in this country when gays can serve openly in the military but our kids can't openly celebrate Christmas or pray in school.
As President, I'll end Obama's war on religion. And I'll fight against liberal attacks on our religious heritage.
Faith made America strong. It can make her strong again.
I'm Rick Perry and I approve this message."
Removed YouTube video commenting on Rick Perry ad:
BESUREIS: Turning Music Video
Starts out like a lot of Besureis' stuff: slow, mournful, dark. Then a little into the song the beat pumps up and the video just becomes disturbing in a fascinating way. You just watch to see what happens next. Creative video and not predictable.
The one thing I'd say about Besureis is their stuff tends to be dark and thoughtful. That's OK if you can tolerate it. Personally, I like something a little peppy with some hope.
YouTube's Greatest Freakout Ever - A Warning
A YouTube user named WAFFLEPWN has an immensely popular video of his brother freaking out after getting punished for something.
But there's a problem. Looking at all 16 videos of his brother getting upset makes clear that his brother is mentally disabled, and maybe even autistic. So this little brother deliberately agitates his older disabled brother and films it for the entertainment of the world. Several million views at this point.
The disabled brother vehemently dislikes being touched. When a comedian did a riff on the video, the family was invited into dressing room to meet him, including the "freakout brother." The comedian deliberately touched him and set off another episode of panic. The family did nothing, including the parents, to protect him or to set boundaries. When a British film crew interviewed WAFFLEPWN about his video, the older brother came into the room in the middle of it. He was sat down and provoked by touching once again. And the mother filmed the episode rather than intervene. Of course that video was put on YouTube as well.
I want to say something here. This is a strong young kid, 18 years old, who has not hit his brother - yet. And some of the things the disabled kid says ("When I get angry I don't remember what I do") are serious indicators of rage control issues.
It is not wise to provoke someone like that, to humiliate them in front of millions of people, and then to do it again and again. We may be hearing from this family in the future, and not in a good way.
But there's a problem. Looking at all 16 videos of his brother getting upset makes clear that his brother is mentally disabled, and maybe even autistic. So this little brother deliberately agitates his older disabled brother and films it for the entertainment of the world. Several million views at this point.
The disabled brother vehemently dislikes being touched. When a comedian did a riff on the video, the family was invited into dressing room to meet him, including the "freakout brother." The comedian deliberately touched him and set off another episode of panic. The family did nothing, including the parents, to protect him or to set boundaries. When a British film crew interviewed WAFFLEPWN about his video, the older brother came into the room in the middle of it. He was sat down and provoked by touching once again. And the mother filmed the episode rather than intervene. Of course that video was put on YouTube as well.
I want to say something here. This is a strong young kid, 18 years old, who has not hit his brother - yet. And some of the things the disabled kid says ("When I get angry I don't remember what I do") are serious indicators of rage control issues.
It is not wise to provoke someone like that, to humiliate them in front of millions of people, and then to do it again and again. We may be hearing from this family in the future, and not in a good way.
11.27.2011
Anti-Putin Russian Hip-Hop
Admittedly, I don't speak Russian, but this video's visuals compare Putin to Hitler and seem to slam the skinhead movement as pointlessly violent.
Let me know if that is off base, somebody. But the song is a good one, and unlike U.S. hip-hop, it seems to be something more than depressed young men holding their crotches and hating women.
11.26.2011
Russian Rap: Hip Hop With a Smile
A really infectious song that shows hip hop doesn't have to be angry. Another youtube video that you will want to watch over and over again.
What's so interesting is how the classic hip hop gang poses, with hand signals and standing with crossed arms, is adapted to another place across the globe with a mocking laugh. Nothing vicious, just fun. Another difference in this video in the incorporation of many regular people. There is no need for barely-dressed women draped on cars or around pools. The artistic confidence displayed by both choices is often missing in U.S. hip hop videos.
As the reader might know, I am a fan of the San Diego hip hop sound. However, the videos follow a formulaic visual track of anger, cement, barely-dressed women, big gold jewelry and cars. I understand that this message is a reflection of a life lived, but is there nothing else to say visually? Something to think about.
The video and the music speaks for itself and is fun to watch.
A-Pink My My Video - Japanese Girl Group
This is a really fun music video by a Japanese girl group called A-pink. The clothes and choreography are engaging and don't be surprised if you wake up in the morning singing this song.
11.13.2011
Great New Song from Besureis "It's Not Your Fate"
Great song and video. Powerful and great mingle of vocals. Never heard of Besureis before, I think they are from the UK.
Anyway, check it out.
10.10.2011
Capital City Ball Benefits DC-Based Anti-Human Trafficking Group
Are you looking for a worthy excuse to break out your fanciest duds and dance the night away?
Then come to this year’s Capital City Ball on November 19 at the fabulous and historic Washington Club. Beneficiaries of this year’s ball include a number of well-known DC-based anti-trafficking and human rights groups including Courtney’s House and Bridge to Freedom Foundation.
There will be live music provided by Bittersweet, an eleven-piece, high-energy dance band, plenty of hors d'oeuvres, assorted desserts, an open bar and a silent auction.
When: Saturday, November 19, 8:00p.m. - 1:00a.m.
Where: The Washington Club, 15 Dupont Circle, NW
Dress: Black tie formal
Tickets: Advocate level: $125 for a limited time; Angel level: $250; Tables are also available. To purchase your tickets, go to: http://www.capitalcityball.org/tickets.htm
Then come to this year’s Capital City Ball on November 19 at the fabulous and historic Washington Club. Beneficiaries of this year’s ball include a number of well-known DC-based anti-trafficking and human rights groups including Courtney’s House and Bridge to Freedom Foundation.
There will be live music provided by Bittersweet, an eleven-piece, high-energy dance band, plenty of hors d'oeuvres, assorted desserts, an open bar and a silent auction.
When: Saturday, November 19, 8:00p.m. - 1:00a.m.
Where: The Washington Club, 15 Dupont Circle, NW
Dress: Black tie formal
Tickets: Advocate level: $125 for a limited time; Angel level: $250; Tables are also available. To purchase your tickets, go to: http://www.capitalcityball.org/tickets.htm
Fashion Benefit for Stop Modern Slavery
NEW - Can’t wait for the SMS Walk to show your support for the cause?
Come to a Fashion with Passion happy hour benefiting the DC SMS Walk on Friday, October 21 at Sutra Lounge in Adams Morgan. There will be live music by Society & Ariane as well as presentations by health and fitness trainer Jen Elyse, style expert Kyndall Douglas and Giovanna and The Capital Icon Team & Models,
There will also be drink specials, door prizes and raffles so don’t miss out on this fantastic event!
When: Friday, October 21, 6:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.
Where: Sutra Lounge, 2406 18 St., NW
Cover: $10 Donation
RSVP at: info@capitalicon.com; space is limited.
Come to a Fashion with Passion happy hour benefiting the DC SMS Walk on Friday, October 21 at Sutra Lounge in Adams Morgan. There will be live music by Society & Ariane as well as presentations by health and fitness trainer Jen Elyse, style expert Kyndall Douglas and Giovanna and The Capital Icon Team & Models,
There will also be drink specials, door prizes and raffles so don’t miss out on this fantastic event!
When: Friday, October 21, 6:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.
Where: Sutra Lounge, 2406 18 St., NW
Cover: $10 Donation
RSVP at: info@capitalicon.com; space is limited.
Impact of Human Trafficking Policies - a Debate
Do you have concerns about the potential negative impacts of well-meaning anti-human trafficking policies?
Come to an interactive brown bag lunch lecture on “Human Trafficking, Prostitution, Pandemics and Politics: Do Anti-Trafficking Policies Hurt the Most Vulnerable?” this Wednesday afternoon at American University Washington College of Law.
Joanna Busza, senior lecturer in sexual and reproductive health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, will discuss her public health research conducted among Vietnamese sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and among Eastern European prostitutes working in London to demonstrate how attempts to reduce exploitation can result in increased human rights abuse and vulnerability to health risks such as HIV.
When: Wednesday, October 12, noon - 1:20p.m.
Where: 4801 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, American University Washington College of Law, JD Student Lounge
For more information, contact Melissa del Aguila at maguila@wcl.american.edu
Come to an interactive brown bag lunch lecture on “Human Trafficking, Prostitution, Pandemics and Politics: Do Anti-Trafficking Policies Hurt the Most Vulnerable?” this Wednesday afternoon at American University Washington College of Law.
Joanna Busza, senior lecturer in sexual and reproductive health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, will discuss her public health research conducted among Vietnamese sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and among Eastern European prostitutes working in London to demonstrate how attempts to reduce exploitation can result in increased human rights abuse and vulnerability to health risks such as HIV.
When: Wednesday, October 12, noon - 1:20p.m.
Where: 4801 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, American University Washington College of Law, JD Student Lounge
For more information, contact Melissa del Aguila at maguila@wcl.american.edu
10.03.2011
Have you heard about the New Underground Railroad?
REMINDER - Have you heard about the New Underground Railroad?
It’s a web-based portal where anti-trafficking activists across the globe can link up to share information about campaigns, one-time events, important legislation, internships and job positions. Create your own FREE account with End Slavery Now -- the world’s largest database of volunteers, organizations, facilities and service professionals fighting to stop modern day slavery.
To sign up, visit http://bit.ly/bTEvz1
Also, be sure to check out End Slavery Now’s BRAND SPANKING NEW "Action on the Ground" project map (http://bit.ly/ov8qkW ) -- the first comprehensive and interactive web-based app to track the global fight against human trafficking. This new tool allows partner NGOs around the world to upload projects, photos and links; making it easy to see what organizations are doing to rescue, rehabilitate and reintegrate modern-day slaves, as well as stem demand.
It’s a web-based portal where anti-trafficking activists across the globe can link up to share information about campaigns, one-time events, important legislation, internships and job positions. Create your own FREE account with End Slavery Now -- the world’s largest database of volunteers, organizations, facilities and service professionals fighting to stop modern day slavery.
To sign up, visit http://bit.ly/bTEvz1
Also, be sure to check out End Slavery Now’s BRAND SPANKING NEW "Action on the Ground" project map (http://bit.ly/ov8qkW ) -- the first comprehensive and interactive web-based app to track the global fight against human trafficking. This new tool allows partner NGOs around the world to upload projects, photos and links; making it easy to see what organizations are doing to rescue, rehabilitate and reintegrate modern-day slaves, as well as stem demand.
Want to get informed about the problem of sex trafficking in Haiti?
NEW - Want to get informed about the problem of sex trafficking in Haiti?
Come to a brown bag lunch discussion featuring Dr. Laura Lederer, president of Global Centurion, this Tuesday at Catholic University’s Columbus School of Law.
Global Centurion is a nonprofit with a particular focus on reducing the demand for child sexual slavery. In Haiti, Global Centurion has helped to educate healthcare providers on recognizing the signs of sex trafficking, organized public awareness campaigns on trafficking using radio jingles in local Creole and launched an SMS helpline designed to monitor gender-based violence, child abuse and human trafficking throughout Haiti’s tent cities.
When: Tuesday, October 4, 12:30p.m. - 1:30p.m.
Where: Catholic University Columbus School of Law; 3600 John McCormack Rd., Room 220
Come to a brown bag lunch discussion featuring Dr. Laura Lederer, president of Global Centurion, this Tuesday at Catholic University’s Columbus School of Law.
Global Centurion is a nonprofit with a particular focus on reducing the demand for child sexual slavery. In Haiti, Global Centurion has helped to educate healthcare providers on recognizing the signs of sex trafficking, organized public awareness campaigns on trafficking using radio jingles in local Creole and launched an SMS helpline designed to monitor gender-based violence, child abuse and human trafficking throughout Haiti’s tent cities.
When: Tuesday, October 4, 12:30p.m. - 1:30p.m.
Where: Catholic University Columbus School of Law; 3600 John McCormack Rd., Room 220
2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
GET OUT THERE
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org.
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org.
10.01.2011
Earthquake: M 3.6 - Southeastern Missouri
Location: Southeastern Missouri
Time: Thu, Sep 22, 2011 4:32:09 PM PDT
GMT: Thu, Sep 22, 2011 23:32:09 GMT
Latitude: 36° 49' 4" N (36.8180°)
Longitude: 90° 44' 55" W (-90.7487°)
Depth: 7.1 mi
Map: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=M%203.6%20-%20Southeastern%20Missouri@36.818001,-90.748703&z=6
More Information (while available): http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/nm092211b.php
Data provided by US Geological Survey.
--
Brought to you by QuakeWatch, http://itunes.com/apps/QuakeWatch
--
Earthquake: M 4.6 - North Atlantic Ocean
Location: North Atlantic Ocean
Time: Sat, Sep 24, 2011 4:55:57 PM PDT
GMT: Sat, Sep 24, 2011 23:55:57 GMT
Latitude: 21° 36' 55" N (21.6155°)
Longitude: 66° 34' 0" W (-66.5669°)
Depth: 9.4 mi
Map: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=M%204.6%20-%20North%20Atlantic%20Ocean@21.615499,-66.566902&z=6
More Information (while available): http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usc000604n.php
Data provided by US Geological Survey.
--
Brought to you by QuakeWatch, http://itunes.com/apps/QuakeWatch
--
Earthquake: M 4.7 - Andreanof Islands, Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Magnitude: 4.7
Location: Andreanof Islands, Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Location: Andreanof Islands, Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Time: Mon, Sep 26, 2011 1:08:46 PM PDT
GMT: Mon, Sep 26, 2011 20:08:46 GMT
Latitude: 52° 43' 2" N (52.7173°)
Longitude: 174° 0' 50" W (-174.0140°)
Depth: 126.4 mi
More Information (while available): http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/usc00060mu.php
Data provided by US Geological Survey.
--
Brought to you by QuakeWatch, http://itunes.com/apps/QuakeWatch
--
Sent from my iPhone
Tsunami Report
000 WEHW42 PHEB 222315 TIBHWX HIZ001>003-005>009-012>014-016>021-023>026-230115- TSUNAMI INFORMATION STATEMENT NUMBER 1 NWS PACIFIC TSUNAMI WARNING CENTER EWA BEACH HI 115 PM HST THU SEP 22 2011 TO - CIVIL DEFENSE IN THE STATE OF HAWAII SUBJECT - TSUNAMI INFORMATION STATEMENT THIS STATEMENT IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY. NO ACTION REQUIRED. AN EARTHQUAKE HAS OCCURRED WITH THESE PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS ORIGIN TIME - 0107 PM HST 22 SEP 2011 COORDINATES - 15.0 SOUTH 174.8 WEST LOCATION - SAMOA ISLANDS REGION MAGNITUDE - 6.8 MOMENT EVALUATION BASED ON ALL AVAILABLE DATA A DESTRUCTIVE PACIFIC-WIDE TSUNAMI IS NOT EXPECTED AND THERE IS NO TSUNAMI THREAT TO HAWAII. REPEAT. A DESTRUCTIVE PACIFIC-WIDE TSUNAMI IS NOT EXPECTED AND THERE IS NO TSUNAMI THREAT TO HAWAII. THIS WILL BE THE ONLY STATEMENT ISSUED FOR THIS EVENT UNLESS ADDITIONAL DATA ARE RECEIVED. $$ |
9.28.2011
Surfers Rescue Baby Great White Shark
In Venice, California, surfers decided to save a baby great white shark after pulling it out of the water. There was something stuck in its mouth. Takes guts to put your hands near shark's teeth, even baby shark's teeth.
Harry Potter Dog Needs New Home
It seems the owner of the star dog didn't have the time for him anymore.
“[Berry] was given up for rescue because the gentleman couldn’t afford to keep him anymore and his companion,” said Jane O’Brien, who fields inquiries for German Shepherd Rescue. The two dogs were immediately put into a safe foster home but now need a permanent place to live.
On the organization’s website, Berry’s bio reads: “My Dad contacted German Shepherd Dog Rescue because he realized he didn’t have the time to look after us properly anymore. His work takes him away from home an awful lot and whilst his friends and family tried to help look after us, we weren’t getting the walks or brushes we were used to.”
I love German Shepherds and would love to adopt these dogs. They would get lots of attention, brushing and exercise on the Tijuana Slough every day, and even get to play in the ocean.
Alas, the chances of those dogs getting shipped to California are rather slim. Too bad.
“[Berry] was given up for rescue because the gentleman couldn’t afford to keep him anymore and his companion,” said Jane O’Brien, who fields inquiries for German Shepherd Rescue. The two dogs were immediately put into a safe foster home but now need a permanent place to live.
On the organization’s website, Berry’s bio reads: “My Dad contacted German Shepherd Dog Rescue because he realized he didn’t have the time to look after us properly anymore. His work takes him away from home an awful lot and whilst his friends and family tried to help look after us, we weren’t getting the walks or brushes we were used to.”
I love German Shepherds and would love to adopt these dogs. They would get lots of attention, brushing and exercise on the Tijuana Slough every day, and even get to play in the ocean.
Alas, the chances of those dogs getting shipped to California are rather slim. Too bad.
9.26.2011
Join the Modern Underground Railroad
REMINDER - Have you heard about the New Underground Railroad?
It’s a web-based portal where anti-trafficking activists across the globe can link up to share information about campaigns, one-time events, important legislation, internships and job positions. Create your own FREE account with End Slavery Now -- the world’s largest database of volunteers, organizations, facilities and service professionals fighting to stop modern day slavery.
To sign up, visit http://bit.ly/bTEvz1
Also, be sure to check out End Slavery Now’s BRAND SPANKING NEW "Action on the Ground" project map (http://bit.ly/ov8qkW ) -- the first comprehensive and interactive web-based app to track the global fight against human trafficking. This new tool allows partner NGOs around the world to upload projects, photos and links; making it easy to see what organizations are doing to rescue, rehabilitate and reintegrate modern-day slaves, as well as stem demand.
It’s a web-based portal where anti-trafficking activists across the globe can link up to share information about campaigns, one-time events, important legislation, internships and job positions. Create your own FREE account with End Slavery Now -- the world’s largest database of volunteers, organizations, facilities and service professionals fighting to stop modern day slavery.
To sign up, visit http://bit.ly/bTEvz1
Also, be sure to check out End Slavery Now’s BRAND SPANKING NEW "Action on the Ground" project map (http://bit.ly/ov8qkW ) -- the first comprehensive and interactive web-based app to track the global fight against human trafficking. This new tool allows partner NGOs around the world to upload projects, photos and links; making it easy to see what organizations are doing to rescue, rehabilitate and reintegrate modern-day slaves, as well as stem demand.
The Abolitionist's Digest
REMINDER - Interested in reading news articles gathered from around the country and the globe that cover human trafficking crimes and efforts to eliminate modern-day slavery? Sign up to receive The Abolitionist’s Digest -- produced by DC SMS members and emailed each Wednesday morning.
Sign up to receive the weekly digest here, http://bit.ly/hPYzFd.
Sign up to receive the weekly digest here, http://bit.ly/hPYzFd.
Push for Anti-Human Trafficking Legislation
MOBILIZE
REMINDER - Can you be a part of ensuring a crucial piece of federal legislation that safeguards the rights of trafficking survivors is renewed before it expires at the end of the month?
The 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) was only recently introduced in the House (H.R. 2830) -- so it’s important now more than ever to keep pressure on our representatives to pass this vital legislation! The TVPRA is one of the cornerstones of the United States’ anti-trafficking efforts. Initially signed into law in 2000, the law must be reauthorized every few years. The current TVPRA expires on Friday, and it is critical that the reauthorization be signed before this date to ensure the country maintains a consistent and comprehensive approach to combating human trafficking. The Senate version (S.1301) was introduced this past June.
You can sign the Polaris Project’s Change.org petition urging Congress to reauthorize TVPRA here: http://chn.ge/pyQ921 Once you've signed the online petition, go one step further to spread the word! Tweet about the petition on Twitter. Here's a sample tweet: I just signed this petition on @Change asking Congress to reauthorize the #2011TVPRA #trafficking http://ht.ly/6rX92 via @Polaris_Project. Spread the word on Facebook! Here's a sample post: Sign the petition on Change.org today to ask Congress to reauthorize the 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act! Your signature can make a difference in the lives of human trafficking victims. [http://ht.ly/6rX92]
REMINDER - Can you be a part of ensuring a crucial piece of federal legislation that safeguards the rights of trafficking survivors is renewed before it expires at the end of the month?
The 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) was only recently introduced in the House (H.R. 2830) -- so it’s important now more than ever to keep pressure on our representatives to pass this vital legislation! The TVPRA is one of the cornerstones of the United States’ anti-trafficking efforts. Initially signed into law in 2000, the law must be reauthorized every few years. The current TVPRA expires on Friday, and it is critical that the reauthorization be signed before this date to ensure the country maintains a consistent and comprehensive approach to combating human trafficking. The Senate version (S.1301) was introduced this past June.
You can sign the Polaris Project’s Change.org petition urging Congress to reauthorize TVPRA here: http://chn.ge/pyQ921 Once you've signed the online petition, go one step further to spread the word! Tweet about the petition on Twitter. Here's a sample tweet: I just signed this petition on @Change asking Congress to reauthorize the #2011TVPRA #trafficking http://ht.ly/6rX92 via @Polaris_Project. Spread the word on Facebook! Here's a sample post: Sign the petition on Change.org today to ask Congress to reauthorize the 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act! Your signature can make a difference in the lives of human trafficking victims. [http://ht.ly/6rX92]
Brooks Bros. in Georgetown to Host Benefit to AId Victims of Sex Trafficking
Come to a special night of cocktails, hors d’ oeuvres and shopping on October 6 at Brooks Brothers Georgetown to benefit Urban Light -- a nonprofit that provides educational opportunities and social and health services to teenage boys that have escaped the sex industry in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
As Chiang Mai continues to be the hub for tourism in northern Thailand while myriad economic and social factors fuel rural-urban migration, the population of young boys who are victims of sex trafficking continues to grow. Urban Light is the only organization of its kind to focus on connecting these young men with housing, health, and employment opportunities while offering in-house case management and personal development.
Participating shoppers will enjoy a 15% discount on their Brooks Brothers purchases during the night of the event with 10% of the evening’s sales donated directly to Urban Light.
When: Thursday, October 6, 6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.
Where: Brooks Brothers Georgetown, 3077 M St. NW
RSVP by emailing events@brooksbrothers.com
As Chiang Mai continues to be the hub for tourism in northern Thailand while myriad economic and social factors fuel rural-urban migration, the population of young boys who are victims of sex trafficking continues to grow. Urban Light is the only organization of its kind to focus on connecting these young men with housing, health, and employment opportunities while offering in-house case management and personal development.
Participating shoppers will enjoy a 15% discount on their Brooks Brothers purchases during the night of the event with 10% of the evening’s sales donated directly to Urban Light.
When: Thursday, October 6, 6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.
Where: Brooks Brothers Georgetown, 3077 M St. NW
RSVP by emailing events@brooksbrothers.com
Anti-Sex Trafficking Tonight at GWU
Cargo is an award-winning anti-sex trafficking drama written and directed by Yan Vizinberg. The film tells the story of a young Russian woman, smuggled into America by human traffickers, and a notorious Egyptian transporter, hired to drive her from the Mexican border to New York City. The pair form an unlikely bond that transforms them and threatens to derail the traffickers' plans.
Vizinberg will be on hand after the screening along with film editor/producer Abigail Honor and Andrew Powell, the founder and CEO of FAIR Fund to take questions from the audience. Refreshments will be served.
When: Monday, September 26, 6:00p.m. - 7:30p.m.
Where: George Washington University, Lindner Family Commons, Room 602, 1957 E St. NW
RSVP at: http://bit.ly/owIRzs
Vizinberg will be on hand after the screening along with film editor/producer Abigail Honor and Andrew Powell, the founder and CEO of FAIR Fund to take questions from the audience. Refreshments will be served.
When: Monday, September 26, 6:00p.m. - 7:30p.m.
Where: George Washington University, Lindner Family Commons, Room 602, 1957 E St. NW
RSVP at: http://bit.ly/owIRzs
2011 DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk
GET OUT THERE
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
**Early bird registration ends Friday. Prices will go up October 1 so REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
**Early bird registration ends Friday. Prices will go up October 1 so REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
9.21.2011
Chance to Appear in DC Documentary on Human Trafficking
REMINDER - Would you like your voice to be heard on a short documentary on human trafficking?
Local DC filmmaker and SMS member Dexter Sumner and the Hague Files crew are looking for anti-trafficking activists to provide 30-seconds or so of soundbyte outtakes on their feelings about modern-day slavery. Participants do not have to be an expert to talk about the issue though experts are welcome to contribute soundbytes!
Soundbyte topics the documentary is focusing on are:
• Runaways and the lack of shelter(s) to house them.
• Debt bondage practices with a particular interest in the experience of Korean women trafficked into the United States.
• Voices for the voiceless -- who speaks for trafficked victims, particularly children?
• Violence -- what kind of violence would someone who is trafficked face?
• The real reasons why individuals enter the sex trade and public misconceptions about those reasons.
Participants are also welcome to comment on other human trafficking issues not addressed above. To get involved, email, dextoor@msn.com
Local DC filmmaker and SMS member Dexter Sumner and the Hague Files crew are looking for anti-trafficking activists to provide 30-seconds or so of soundbyte outtakes on their feelings about modern-day slavery. Participants do not have to be an expert to talk about the issue though experts are welcome to contribute soundbytes!
Soundbyte topics the documentary is focusing on are:
• Runaways and the lack of shelter(s) to house them.
• Debt bondage practices with a particular interest in the experience of Korean women trafficked into the United States.
• Voices for the voiceless -- who speaks for trafficked victims, particularly children?
• Violence -- what kind of violence would someone who is trafficked face?
• The real reasons why individuals enter the sex trade and public misconceptions about those reasons.
Participants are also welcome to comment on other human trafficking issues not addressed above. To get involved, email, dextoor@msn.com
9.20.2011
Human Trafficking in UAE
NEW - Interested in learning more about the nature of human trafficking in the United Arab Emirates?
Attend a lunchtime discussion this Thursday on the new book Gridlock: Labor, Migration, and Human Trafficking in Dubai with book author and Pomona College associate professor, Pardis Mahdavi.
Gridlock draws on four years of Mahdavi's ethnographic research in the United Arab Emirates that examined disconnections between policies on human trafficking and the realities of gendered labor and migration in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The project seeks to illuminate the experiences of migrant women and men in the Middle East and how their stories have frequently been misunderstood by policymakers and activists. The book also offers steps that could be taken to improve policy, discourse and activism.
When: Thursday, September 23, 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.
Where: Woodrow Wilson Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Attend a lunchtime discussion this Thursday on the new book Gridlock: Labor, Migration, and Human Trafficking in Dubai with book author and Pomona College associate professor, Pardis Mahdavi.
Gridlock draws on four years of Mahdavi's ethnographic research in the United Arab Emirates that examined disconnections between policies on human trafficking and the realities of gendered labor and migration in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The project seeks to illuminate the experiences of migrant women and men in the Middle East and how their stories have frequently been misunderstood by policymakers and activists. The book also offers steps that could be taken to improve policy, discourse and activism.
When: Thursday, September 23, 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.
Where: Woodrow Wilson Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Imperial Beach, CA
A small video I put together highlighting our fun in Imperial Beach, CA. This is definitely a surfer town. Imperial Beachians are nice and friendly, too.
My husband and I take a romantic walk every night on the beach with our dog. It really feels like heaven.
Tiny Hands in Nepal
NEW - Do you have a moment to add your name to another petition supporting enhanced border security in Nepal to ensure young girls are not trafficked into India to work in brothels?
An estimated 10,000 girls are kidnapped or coerced across the border into India where they are sold into a life of sexual slavery. Many of these girls are offered a chance to escape from their poor villages, either through a false marriage or job opportunity in the city. Once they arrive they are shuttled across the Indian border to brothels were they are forced to have sex with as many as 40 clients each day.
Tiny Hands is aiming to collect a minimum of 7,500 signatures before November when their vice president of justice operations, Jeff Blom, is slated to bring the petition before the Council Against Human Trafficking in Nepal. You can sign the Change.org petition sponsored by Tiny Hands International here: http://chn.ge/oQBB8B
An estimated 10,000 girls are kidnapped or coerced across the border into India where they are sold into a life of sexual slavery. Many of these girls are offered a chance to escape from their poor villages, either through a false marriage or job opportunity in the city. Once they arrive they are shuttled across the Indian border to brothels were they are forced to have sex with as many as 40 clients each day.
Tiny Hands is aiming to collect a minimum of 7,500 signatures before November when their vice president of justice operations, Jeff Blom, is slated to bring the petition before the Council Against Human Trafficking in Nepal. You can sign the Change.org petition sponsored by Tiny Hands International here: http://chn.ge/oQBB8B
2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA)
NEW - Can you be a part of ensuring a crucial piece of federal legislation that safeguards the rights of trafficking survivors is renewed before it expires at the end of the month?
The 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) was only recently introduced in the House (H.R. 2830) -- so it’s important now more than ever to keep pressure on our representatives to pass this vital legislation! The TVPRA is one of the cornerstones of the United States’ anti-trafficking efforts. Initially signed into law in 2000, the law must be reauthorized every few years. The current TVPRA expires on September 30, and it is critical that the reauthorization be signed before this date to ensure the country maintains a consistent and comprehensive approach to combating human trafficking. The Senate version (S.1301) was introduced this past June.
You can sign the Polaris Project’s Change.org petition urging Congress to reauthorize TVPRA here: http://chn.ge/pyQ921 Once you've signed the online petition, go one step further to spread the word! Tweet about the petition on Twitter. Here's a sample tweet: I just signed this petition on @Change asking Congress to reauthorize the #2011TVPRA #trafficking http://ht.ly/6rX92 via @Polaris_Project. Spread the word on Facebook! Here's a sample post: Sign the petition on Change.org today to ask Congress to reauthorize the 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act! Your signature can make a difference in the lives of human trafficking victims. [http://ht.ly/6rX92]
The 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) was only recently introduced in the House (H.R. 2830) -- so it’s important now more than ever to keep pressure on our representatives to pass this vital legislation! The TVPRA is one of the cornerstones of the United States’ anti-trafficking efforts. Initially signed into law in 2000, the law must be reauthorized every few years. The current TVPRA expires on September 30, and it is critical that the reauthorization be signed before this date to ensure the country maintains a consistent and comprehensive approach to combating human trafficking. The Senate version (S.1301) was introduced this past June.
You can sign the Polaris Project’s Change.org petition urging Congress to reauthorize TVPRA here: http://chn.ge/pyQ921 Once you've signed the online petition, go one step further to spread the word! Tweet about the petition on Twitter. Here's a sample tweet: I just signed this petition on @Change asking Congress to reauthorize the #2011TVPRA #trafficking http://ht.ly/6rX92 via @Polaris_Project. Spread the word on Facebook! Here's a sample post: Sign the petition on Change.org today to ask Congress to reauthorize the 2011 Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act! Your signature can make a difference in the lives of human trafficking victims. [http://ht.ly/6rX92]
9.19.2011
Anti-Human Trafficking Happy Hour Fundraiser September 22
REMINDER - Love happy hour? How about raising money for a really important anti-trafficking cause?
Swing by the L2 Lounge in Georgetown on September 22 for a happy hour fundraiser for the Bridge to Freedom Foundation. All proceeds will go directly to BTFF’s efforts to support human trafficking survivors as they work to build sustainable, thriving livelihoods.
When: Thursday, September 22; 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Where: L2 Lounge, 3315 Cady’s Alley, NW
Donation: $15 at the door
Swing by the L2 Lounge in Georgetown on September 22 for a happy hour fundraiser for the Bridge to Freedom Foundation. All proceeds will go directly to BTFF’s efforts to support human trafficking survivors as they work to build sustainable, thriving livelihoods.
When: Thursday, September 22; 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Where: L2 Lounge, 3315 Cady’s Alley, NW
Donation: $15 at the door
2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
**Early bird registration ends September 30. Prices will go up October 1 so REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org.
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
**Early bird registration ends September 30. Prices will go up October 1 so REGISTER TODAY! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in volunteering on the day of the walk, please email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org.
9.17.2011
San Diego Hip Hop Sound - Rap with a Touch of Funk
Total fan of Dido Brown here. Just discovered some local San Diego hip hop talent Dido Brown.
Great stuff.
Give it a listen:
Great stuff.
Give it a listen:
New Sound Out of San Diego: Dido Brown and Green-Eyed Boys
Great new sound coming out of San Diego. Actually met one of the Green Eyed Boys in a parking lot selling his CDs. Led me to Dido Brown. You've got to hear this stuff. It's fantastic.
Give it a listen:
Give it a listen:
9.16.2011
Classic DC: DC Drum Circle
Some things are just classic DC and must be experienced to be called a true DC resident, and not just someone passing through. The DC Drum Circle is one of those things. Below is a video of DC Drum Circles. Not a substitute for the real thing.
Something about the pounding rhythm penetrates your body and resets your own personal rhythms. Must really feel it to know what I mean.
Something about the pounding rhythm penetrates your body and resets your own personal rhythms. Must really feel it to know what I mean.
PETA Mobile Vet Clinic
Nikita was found abandoned by a PETA fieldworker during the worst of Hurricane Irene. His only shelter from 70 mile-per-hour winds and driving rain was a piece of plywood barely covering a corner of the minuscule pen that he was trapped in.
Nikita was rescued from the storm in the nick of time, and as soon as he was well enough, he was neutered through PETA's mobile spay-and-neuter clinic program.
PETA's mobile veterinary clinics offer low-cost or free spaying and neutering and other veterinary care to the indigent community near our Norfolk, Va., headquarters. You can help PETA continue to provide these lifesaving community programs with a special gift today.
PETA's three mobile clinics work to help animals in the border areas of Virginia and North Carolina, which has one of the highest rates of homeless dogs and cats in the country. These state-of-the-art, mobile clinics have had a dramatic impact on reducing the number of unwanted and abandoned animals throughout the region. Since this lifesaving program's inception in 2001, PETA has spayed or neutered more than 70,000 dogs, cats, and rabbits—including feral cats and aggressive dogs whom many other clinics simply refuse to handle. The program averages 900 sterilizations a month, and with your help, we hope to do even more!
Our mobile clinics are impressive, eye-catching vehicles, funded by PETA donors and featuring celebrity friends like Simon Cowell and Los Angeles Lakers forward Ron Artest—stars who make people look at the messages about adopting, getting dogs and cats fixed, and not chaining! We've recently expanded our fleet with a new clinic, and you can watch the dedication video here.
The issue of animal homelessness is urgent—a real matter of life or death. Unwanted animals are left on the street to fend for themselves. They succumb to untreated injuries and illnesses, become victims of abuse, or are turned over to animal shelters, with little hope of adoption. Our spay-and-neuter program is a simple and effective way to prevent the births of any more unwanted companion animals.
PETA staffers go into low-income and underserved neighborhoods and distribute fliers about the mobile clinics. We then drive in one of the clinics to make it easy for the residents to deliver their animals for surgery. Those who can't make it are picked up from home, delivered to the clinic, and driven back home at the end of the day through our one-of-a-kind transport program. We also visit underfunded animal shelters so that we can spay and neuter animals before they are adopted into loving homes.
The mobile clinics are equipped with the newest technology. The medical technicians run a safe and efficient program that allows for at least 25 sterilizations on the van each day. And then, thanks to PETA's work, there is no need to find homes for the offspring of the animals who have been "snipped"!
Please support our vital work to care for neglected animals and stop animal overpopulation.
PETA is working to bring about a day when every companion animal born has a good home waiting—when animal homelessness is non-existent. Until that time, we will continue to expand our spay-and-neuter services and care for the animals who are being neglected.
Thank you for all that you do for animals.
Kind regards,
Ingrid E. Newkirk
President
9.14.2011
Dogs in the Courtroom
A criminal conviction against a child molester, who was a parent of the victim and got the girl pregnant, has been appealed on the basis that a dog was used to comfort the child during courtroom testimony. The defense attorney's argument is that the increased anxiety in testifying in a criminal case is a necessary part of the process, and that the jury is unfairly swayed by the presence of the dog.
Dogs have been permitted in courtrooms for over twenty years. This case is the first time that their presence is a basis for an appeal of a conviction.
Dogs have been permitted in courtrooms for over twenty years. This case is the first time that their presence is a basis for an appeal of a conviction.
9.13.2011
Finnish Guide Dogs Respond More to Praise Than Treats
FACTFILE: The Finnish Guide Dog School is located in the Itä-Hakkila district of Vantaa
There are 195 guide dogs in Finland, and 60 of them live in the province of Uusimaa. Almost all guide dogs are yellow, chocolate, or black Labrador retrievers.
A guide dog can be given to any blind or visually impaired adult who is able to take care of a guide dog properly.
Guide dogs are bred and trained at the Guide Dog School in Itä-Hakkila, which works under the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired (Näkövammaisten Keskusliitto ry.) and is a member of the International Guide Dog Federation.
The Guide Dog School has its own kennel, producing around 70 puppies every year.
Before they can begin their training, the puppies need foster homes where they grow up until they are 18 months old. Then the foster families return them to the Guide Dog School.
The puppies are first tested when they are six weeks old, and when they reach 18 months they are given a closer evaluation. The purpose of the tests is to define the dogs' suitability for guide dog use. Only half of them pass the tests and are admitted to the training programme.
Guide dogs retire at the age of 10 to 12.
There are 195 guide dogs in Finland, and 60 of them live in the province of Uusimaa. Almost all guide dogs are yellow, chocolate, or black Labrador retrievers.
A guide dog can be given to any blind or visually impaired adult who is able to take care of a guide dog properly.
Guide dogs are bred and trained at the Guide Dog School in Itä-Hakkila, which works under the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired (Näkövammaisten Keskusliitto ry.) and is a member of the International Guide Dog Federation.
The Guide Dog School has its own kennel, producing around 70 puppies every year.
Before they can begin their training, the puppies need foster homes where they grow up until they are 18 months old. Then the foster families return them to the Guide Dog School.
The puppies are first tested when they are six weeks old, and when they reach 18 months they are given a closer evaluation. The purpose of the tests is to define the dogs' suitability for guide dog use. Only half of them pass the tests and are admitted to the training programme.
Guide dogs retire at the age of 10 to 12.
9.11.2011
Settlements on the Moon
The New York Times published a story last Sunday about the need for philosophers for the U.S. space program.
Philosophers? The U.S. space program needs a dose of reality. The idea that the major feat of getting man to the Moon was immediately dismantled to chase the dream of Mars is disappointing, to say the least.
Philosophers? The U.S. space program needs a dose of reality. The idea that the major feat of getting man to the Moon was immediately dismantled to chase the dream of Mars is disappointing, to say the least.
9.07.2011
More Dog Surfing!
2011 Loews Dog Surfing "Best of" dogs surfing video clips showcasing canine surfers hitting the waves to raise money for local charities. See more dog surfing videos from this event and other California dog surfing contests at the SoCal Beaches Magazine website at http://www.socalbeachmag.net
9.06.2011
Trickle-Down Misery
We've had enough of trickle down economics. Now is the time of trickle down misery. The affluence and success and money stays at the top, though. Because they are the "job creators" that bestow their wondrous skills on the America population to "spur the economy" and "get America working again." Except that they don't.
No jobs were created in the last jobs report. None. How's that trickle-down garbage working for you now?
Eighty-Nine Dogs Saved From Being Restaurant Food
The Bangkok Post reports today that 89 dogs were saved from Vietnamese menus.
"Civil volunteers in Ban Phaeng district yesterday seized two pickup trucks at Pho Sai village near the Mekong River and found them to be carrying fertiliser sacks containing a total of 120 dogs, 31 of which had suffocated.
The volunteers, who are members of a task force unit under the Ban Phaeng district office, apprehended the drivers of the two vehicles _ Issarapong Sankampai, 24, a native of Nakhon Phanom, and Vietnamese citizen Xern Nguyen Wan, 23 _ and took them to police for questioning.
The suspects allegedly admitted they had been hired by a gang to take the dogs across the Mekong River to Vietnam, where dog is a popular meat and is often served in restaurants."
See the full story by clicking on the title to this post.
"Civil volunteers in Ban Phaeng district yesterday seized two pickup trucks at Pho Sai village near the Mekong River and found them to be carrying fertiliser sacks containing a total of 120 dogs, 31 of which had suffocated.
The volunteers, who are members of a task force unit under the Ban Phaeng district office, apprehended the drivers of the two vehicles _ Issarapong Sankampai, 24, a native of Nakhon Phanom, and Vietnamese citizen Xern Nguyen Wan, 23 _ and took them to police for questioning.
The suspects allegedly admitted they had been hired by a gang to take the dogs across the Mekong River to Vietnam, where dog is a popular meat and is often served in restaurants."
See the full story by clicking on the title to this post.
"Obama! Obama!" Cried the Homeless
There's something about DC's fine old buildings that draw homeless people to their benches. In this case, the National Building Museum. A casual walk to the courthouse led to a thought-provoking encounter, at least for me.
A group of homeless people were lolling about on the benches and lawn of the National Building Museum yelling "Obama! Obama!" to passers-by. I was one of them.
There were all kinds of hopes and dreams put upon President Obama when he was elected, including those homeless people. In retrospect, it would have been impossible for him to fulfill all of them. But wouldn't it have been possible for him to meet just a few of them? Defenders of the President talk about his accomplishments: capturing Bin Laden, health care, etc. All really big things. What's missing is the chest-thumping and the anger. Of course, those same defenders will say that that is just not his style. So change your style. Bankers essentially stole hundreds of millions of dollars and left the American taxpayer with the bill. Then they still throw people out of their homes without having possession of the underlying note and give themselves legendary salary bonuses. People are angry. They want a little blood. Give it to them. And you would even have the law on your side.
A group of homeless people were lolling about on the benches and lawn of the National Building Museum yelling "Obama! Obama!" to passers-by. I was one of them.
There were all kinds of hopes and dreams put upon President Obama when he was elected, including those homeless people. In retrospect, it would have been impossible for him to fulfill all of them. But wouldn't it have been possible for him to meet just a few of them? Defenders of the President talk about his accomplishments: capturing Bin Laden, health care, etc. All really big things. What's missing is the chest-thumping and the anger. Of course, those same defenders will say that that is just not his style. So change your style. Bankers essentially stole hundreds of millions of dollars and left the American taxpayer with the bill. Then they still throw people out of their homes without having possession of the underlying note and give themselves legendary salary bonuses. People are angry. They want a little blood. Give it to them. And you would even have the law on your side.
The Obama Puppy, Christmas Tree, etc
For Heaven's sake. The puppy or Christmas tree chosen by the incoming President is not news.
Now I like dogs, a lot. But this is just not news. It belongs on the social page or the style section of the newspaper. Other than finding out that President Obama is kicking his dog, I don't want to hear about his dog! We've got real problems in this country.
9.05.2011
Jedi Knights on Police Force in Glasgow
Eight officers on the Glasgow police force list their religion as Jedi. You know, as in Star Wars.
Certainly, one of the legacies of the Twentieth Century was the birth of very many religions. It is no surprise that some of them sprouted from popular culture.
When flying into one Middle Eastern country, the card we were handed to fill out had a blank for religion. I put "Druid." It was my little protest at having been asked the question at all. Maybe that's what is going on in Glasgow.
The Obama Apolog-O-Rama - Limerick by Leisure Lad
THE OBAMA APOLOG-ORAMA
Beat cop shed some tears
Advancing Skip Gates’s career
Seemed scant consolation
Viewed by the nation
Hanging w’ the Veep and his non-alky beer
Beat cop shed some tears
Advancing Skip Gates’s career
Seemed scant consolation
Viewed by the nation
Hanging w’ the Veep and his non-alky beer
Nanowrimo: Great Writing Exercise
I've read recent posts about the stupidity of Nanowrimo and how all it does is encourage very bad writing. The writers seem to dismiss the exercise, and that's all that it is, as the idea that spawned terrible writing.
As a Nanowrimo survivor, I can honestly say that it really helped me get past internal barriers and just get the story down on paper, or on the hard drive.
I've got so many mostly-finished manuscripts, it's embarrassing. My hopes are that our move to Imperial Beach, CA, will spur my creative juices and resolve to get these projects finished, at last. Certainly, living a few miles off of the beach is really cool and gives me the feeling of a permanent vacation. We can actually go to the beach every single day. I still can't get over it. We've woven a mile-long walk into our daily lives already. I want to add pilates, playing the saxophone and writing. Let's see how that goes.
9.04.2011
An Idea for Detroit
How about US automakers, rather than merge or go bankrupt, find a way to make a hybrid engine that will fit into their old cars? Or better yet, an electric engine just for urban use.
Imagine how cost-effective that would be! For a few thousand dollars, you can basically have a new car. That would be great! I'd be all over that.
And maybe those new engines could fit into old cars like Jaguars, too.
In those huge companies that spent all that money on research and development, there has to be some green technology engine in the works.
And the impact would be intense. Suddenly people could get new engines instead of completely new cars. Steadily, and over time, the American car could be transformed into a green machine. American consumers would save money, national pride and optimism would be restored. Not bad.
Auto Bailout, Car Bailout, Car Restructuring Plan, Chrysler, Gm, Obama And Auto Restructuring, Politics News
Imagine how cost-effective that would be! For a few thousand dollars, you can basically have a new car. That would be great! I'd be all over that.
And maybe those new engines could fit into old cars like Jaguars, too.
In those huge companies that spent all that money on research and development, there has to be some green technology engine in the works.
And the impact would be intense. Suddenly people could get new engines instead of completely new cars. Steadily, and over time, the American car could be transformed into a green machine. American consumers would save money, national pride and optimism would be restored. Not bad.
Auto Bailout, Car Bailout, Car Restructuring Plan, Chrysler, Gm, Obama And Auto Restructuring, Politics News
Coal and Energy Independence, circa. 1976
An ad in Time Magazine by the coal industry lauds the use of coal as a means to energy independence. See copy above.
It is sad to see that the same issue is preoccupying America now as in 1976: energy independence. Imagine all the free money we would have since the U.S. would not have to fight all those wars to secure our energy supply. Think of all the lives saved. Think of all the schools funded. Thank you, Ronald Reagan. We appreciate what you did more than ever now. Not in a good way.
World Bank Realizes: Poverty Matters
And here would be the limits of a world-class education. Only after the riots and revolutions of the Middle East do the geniuses at the World Bank realize that all those World Bank protesters were right all along. Poverty matters. Crushing poverty matters more.
9.02.2011
Treason !
If Bill Clinton's White House had a senior staffer that committed treason, don't you think that the media would be jumping up and down screaming about it? But when George Bush's Administration outs a covert agent, which is TREASON, then the whole story goes away.
Great Hardball segment linked to this post.
Great Hardball segment linked to this post.
Dog Detective in New York Airport
A canine detective at JFK airport has been put on the case of the missing traveling cat. Fried chicken and sardines are being put out to tempt Jack the Cat, who escaped his cat carrier on a flight into JFK.
"Specifically, Nicole Mabrey of Lost Pet Investigation is bringing her "scent specific" German short-haired pinscher to the American Airlines baggage center where Jack was last seen August 25 on his way to board a flight to California with his brother, Barry."
There is a Twitter account for the adventuring Jack the Cat (@jackthelostcat), who tells his readers of his great adventures.
9.01.2011
Doggie DNA
The DNA of dogs is being used to determine which owners are not picking up the poop from their beloved pets.
Personally, I think it's kind of funny.
Dog poop can really bring down an apartment complex. The stink, the fleas, it can ruin even the nicest of places.
No doubt there are people who will consider this activity a violation of their rights. But the dog doesn't have any constitutional rights. Neither does his publicly-deposited poop.
So scofflaws - beware! The dog poop police are out to get you.
See article in New York Times on this issue by clicking on the title to this post.
Personally, I think it's kind of funny.
Dog poop can really bring down an apartment complex. The stink, the fleas, it can ruin even the nicest of places.
No doubt there are people who will consider this activity a violation of their rights. But the dog doesn't have any constitutional rights. Neither does his publicly-deposited poop.
So scofflaws - beware! The dog poop police are out to get you.
See article in New York Times on this issue by clicking on the title to this post.
So What Is Dog Agility?
Dog agility
From ">Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Agility field left side: A competition agility field showing (clockwise from lower left) a tunnel, the dogwalk, the judge standing in front of a winged jump, two additional winged jumps, dog executing the teeter-totter with his handler guiding, and the tire jump.
Agility field right side: The right side of the same agility field showing (clockwise from foreground) the weave poles, the pause table, the A-frame, two winged jumps, the collapsed tunnel (or chute), and a wingless jump. Numbered orange plastic cones next to obstacles indicate the order in which the dog must perform them.
Dog agility is a dog sport in which a handler directs a dog through an obstacle course in a race for both time and accuracy. Dogs run off-leash with no food or toys as incentives, and the handler can touch neither dog nor obstacles.[1][2][3][4][5] Consequently the handler's controls are limited to voice, movement, and various body signals, requiring exceptional training of the animal and coordination of the handler.
In its simplest form, an agility course consists of a set of standard obstacles, laid out by an agility judge in a design of his or her own choosing on a roughly 100 by 100-foot (30 by 30 m) area that is made up of grass, dirt floors, or rubber mats, with numbers indicating the order in which the dog must complete the obstacles.
Courses are complicated enough that a dog could not complete them correctly without human direction. In competition, the handler must assess the course, decide on handling strategies, and direct the dog through the course, with precision and speed equally important. Many strategies exist to compensate for the inherent difference in human and dog speeds and the strengths and weaknesses of the various dogs and handlers.
8.31.2011
Pet Care Taught in Australian Elementary Schools
Increased urbanization in Australia has been blamed for a rise in animal abuse and neglect cases. A program has been started that teaches elementary school children about animal care and the responsibilities of being a pet owner to try to stop that trend.
Not a bad idea, really. And the kids sure enjoy the dog coming into school, if my memory serves me right.
Click on title to this post for the full story.
Not a bad idea, really. And the kids sure enjoy the dog coming into school, if my memory serves me right.
Click on title to this post for the full story.
Note to Paris Hilton: Dogs Are Not Fashion Accessories
Dogs Trust, a charity in the UK, has worked with Nintendo to teach kids that dogs are not fashion accessories.
Young girls, seeing their cultural heroes in the form of Paris Hilton holding dogs, think that having a dog makes them like Paris Hilton, and get one to carry around. Then they find out that these little creatures are real, and need care.
Nintendo has created a computer program that Dogs Trust uses to teach children that very lesson. They learn that animals need feeding and exercise. It is called Nintendogs. When Dogs Trust goes to schools they are using that program in the classroom as part of the presentation.
It's a great way to teach all the work that goes into having an animal depend on you.
Young girls, seeing their cultural heroes in the form of Paris Hilton holding dogs, think that having a dog makes them like Paris Hilton, and get one to carry around. Then they find out that these little creatures are real, and need care.
Nintendo has created a computer program that Dogs Trust uses to teach children that very lesson. They learn that animals need feeding and exercise. It is called Nintendogs. When Dogs Trust goes to schools they are using that program in the classroom as part of the presentation.
It's a great way to teach all the work that goes into having an animal depend on you.
The Dog Walker's Handbook $3.95 Starting and running a dog walking business
The ultimate handbook on dog walking and starting a small business. Great tips for rescue dogs.
When the Dog Owner Goes to Jail...
Dogs who were owned by people currently in jail are often killed, not because they've done anything wrong.
Safe Humane Chicago's Court Case program, a new idea that allows these dogs to be rehabilitated, socialized and and then adopted out to caring families.
Often the dogs were locked in a cage all day long and then when they are let out to live a full life they change into new animals.
Click on the title to this post to read the full story in My Suburban Life.
Safe Humane Chicago's Court Case program, a new idea that allows these dogs to be rehabilitated, socialized and and then adopted out to caring families.
Often the dogs were locked in a cage all day long and then when they are let out to live a full life they change into new animals.
Click on the title to this post to read the full story in My Suburban Life.
8.30.2011
It Takes Volunteers To Have a Low-Kill Shelter
This is a letter to the editor in Hillsboro, NC from the animal control warden.
"It Takes Volunteers To Maintain Low Euthanasia Rate
Dear Editor:
Evidently a lot of misinformation and comments are circling around the county regarding the animal control facility. I would like to set the record straight for those who are confused.
As an animal control agency, our facility is not a "no-kill" shelter. I have been warden since late December 2009 and never once have I or any of my staff ever told anyone we were no-kill. Thanks to adoptions and rescues to shelters, we are a "low-kill" facility. Last year our euthanasia rate was less than five percent, and that includes severely injured animals, animals so neglected by irresponsible owners that they were beyond help, and aggressive dogs and feral cats.
Whenever we get a call from someone who wants to give us their dog or cat, we always tell them we should be the last resort as we can never guarantee an animal will be placed. We also offer suggestions for the owner to help find a new home for the pet, such as advertising, flyers, internet sites, etc. We rarely have room for owner released animals because we are so full with neglected, abandoned and otherwise stray animals.
Those who are upset that we occasionally have to euthanize an animal due to lack of space are welcome to help find homes for our dogs and cats by word of mouth, e-mail, facebook or other means. They could also help by walking dogs, giving baths, socializing cats, etc., so these animals will be more adoptable to visitors.
Thank goodness for the loyal volunteers we do have at Animal Control, including CRC clients, PAWS members and a few others. They try to effect change the right way.
Nancy J. Richardson
Animal Control Warden, MCAC"
"It Takes Volunteers To Maintain Low Euthanasia Rate
Dear Editor:
Evidently a lot of misinformation and comments are circling around the county regarding the animal control facility. I would like to set the record straight for those who are confused.
As an animal control agency, our facility is not a "no-kill" shelter. I have been warden since late December 2009 and never once have I or any of my staff ever told anyone we were no-kill. Thanks to adoptions and rescues to shelters, we are a "low-kill" facility. Last year our euthanasia rate was less than five percent, and that includes severely injured animals, animals so neglected by irresponsible owners that they were beyond help, and aggressive dogs and feral cats.
Whenever we get a call from someone who wants to give us their dog or cat, we always tell them we should be the last resort as we can never guarantee an animal will be placed. We also offer suggestions for the owner to help find a new home for the pet, such as advertising, flyers, internet sites, etc. We rarely have room for owner released animals because we are so full with neglected, abandoned and otherwise stray animals.
Those who are upset that we occasionally have to euthanize an animal due to lack of space are welcome to help find homes for our dogs and cats by word of mouth, e-mail, facebook or other means. They could also help by walking dogs, giving baths, socializing cats, etc., so these animals will be more adoptable to visitors.
Thank goodness for the loyal volunteers we do have at Animal Control, including CRC clients, PAWS members and a few others. They try to effect change the right way.
Nancy J. Richardson
Animal Control Warden, MCAC"
Checking on the Dog Walker: Are You Being Cheated?
Software is now available for you to check on the pesky dog walker. It has a bar code that the dog walker scans, and a GPS device for you to track the dog walker's walk.
This is a perfect example of how technology does not solve all problems.
A determined cheat will find a good, convincing way around this solution.
More than that, if your dog hasn't been walked all day long, don't you think you'd be able to tell? They would have to go to the bathroom, so to speak, and would be restless.
As a dog walker, the answer to this worry of clients, and they all think you are secretly not doing your job, is to leave little notes about what happened during the dog's walk. Such as: we met and played a little bit with a brown puppy down the street. We went to the park and ran up and down. Things like that.
The important thing is to build trust with your clients. More than that, recognize that dog walking is serious manual labor and there are no shortcuts. Someone approached me on the street asking that once. I suggested he find another line of work.
This is a perfect example of how technology does not solve all problems.
A determined cheat will find a good, convincing way around this solution.
More than that, if your dog hasn't been walked all day long, don't you think you'd be able to tell? They would have to go to the bathroom, so to speak, and would be restless.
As a dog walker, the answer to this worry of clients, and they all think you are secretly not doing your job, is to leave little notes about what happened during the dog's walk. Such as: we met and played a little bit with a brown puppy down the street. We went to the park and ran up and down. Things like that.
The important thing is to build trust with your clients. More than that, recognize that dog walking is serious manual labor and there are no shortcuts. Someone approached me on the street asking that once. I suggested he find another line of work.
City Passes Law to Limit Chaining Dogs
The city council in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has passed a law limiting the chaining or tethering of dogs. The initial legislation had a ban on all thethering, but after heated debate, a compromise was reached in the form of a final law.
The law will take effect in two years to give dog owners enough time to get educated and to make alternate provisions if chaining their dog outside is their practice.
The law will take effect in two years to give dog owners enough time to get educated and to make alternate provisions if chaining their dog outside is their practice.
Stop Modern Slavery Meetup Change
Updated this Meetup. For more details, see the full listing:
http://www.meetup.com/wdcsms/events/26875021/
When: Sunday, September 18, 2011 3:30 PM
Where: Meridian Hill Park
15th St NW & Chapin St NW
Washington, DC 20009
If the changes affect your plans to attend, please take a moment to update your RSVP. (You can RSVP "No" or "Yes".)
You can always get in touch with me through the Contact Us link on Meetup.
http://www.meetup.com/wdcsms/events/26875021/
When: Sunday, September 18, 2011 3:30 PM
Where: Meridian Hill Park
15th St NW & Chapin St NW
Washington, DC 20009
If the changes affect your plans to attend, please take a moment to update your RSVP. (You can RSVP "No" or "Yes".)
You can always get in touch with me through the Contact Us link on Meetup.
Is It Wrong to Consider Pets Personal Property?
A good question. Do pets have rights besides what their owners think? Certainly the owner can be arrested for animal cruelty, and that implies rights of the animal separate from their owners. In Washington, DC, dogs kept outside have to have a certain amount of space to walk around in. And your dog can be seized by DC Animal Control if it is left outside in weather that is too cold.
So your pet has certain rights no matter what the owner thinks or does. So in that sense, the question has already been answered. Yes, it would be incorrect to consider pets strictly personal property.
So your pet has certain rights no matter what the owner thinks or does. So in that sense, the question has already been answered. Yes, it would be incorrect to consider pets strictly personal property.
8.29.2011
Taking Care of Your Pet After You Are Gone
Planning for the care of your pet after you are no longer around to do so is increasingly necessary, says the Humane Society. They have even printed a pamphlet on the subject. "Providing For Your Pet's Future Without You" gives important tips for the continued care of pets in the event of your illness or death.
Too many times, pets are an afterthought in estate planning and they can suffer or even die from the resulting neglect.
"If you or your legal adviser would like more information, contact the HSUS Department of Philanthropy at (800) 808-7858 or the HSUS Office of the General Counsel at (202) 452-1100."
Too many times, pets are an afterthought in estate planning and they can suffer or even die from the resulting neglect.
"If you or your legal adviser would like more information, contact the HSUS Department of Philanthropy at (800) 808-7858 or the HSUS Office of the General Counsel at (202) 452-1100."
Special Dog Collars Used To Regulate Barking Dogs
There are now dog collars that measure the loudness and frequency of a dog's bark.
One city council in Australia bought a bunch of these collars as a response to an oversupply of complaints against noisy dogs.
The dog wears the collar to record ten hours of barks. There is a printout for the owner, too.
Of course, there has to be rules for what constitutes a loud, disruptive dog:
"And if you are wondering what classified a dog as a "nuisance barker" here are council's guidelines:
- The noise has to "unreasonably disrupt" the activity normally carried out in the residential area in the opinion of an "authorised" person.
- Between 7am and 10pm there cannot be more than a total of six minutes of "noise" in any hour.
- After 10pm and before 7am, there cannot be more than three minutes of "noise" in any 30 minute period.
If your dog breaches these guidelines, you've got a problem pet."
To read full article, click on title to this post.
One city council in Australia bought a bunch of these collars as a response to an oversupply of complaints against noisy dogs.
The dog wears the collar to record ten hours of barks. There is a printout for the owner, too.
Of course, there has to be rules for what constitutes a loud, disruptive dog:
"And if you are wondering what classified a dog as a "nuisance barker" here are council's guidelines:
- The noise has to "unreasonably disrupt" the activity normally carried out in the residential area in the opinion of an "authorised" person.
- Between 7am and 10pm there cannot be more than a total of six minutes of "noise" in any hour.
- After 10pm and before 7am, there cannot be more than three minutes of "noise" in any 30 minute period.
If your dog breaches these guidelines, you've got a problem pet."
To read full article, click on title to this post.
Tainted Pet Food Settlement Checks Sent
With payments of about $2,400, settlement checks are being sent out to pet owners whose pets died because of tainted pet food.
I cannot even imagine the pain of watching my beloved dog Amber dying from poison dog food. At least the pet food companies in question, mostly Menu Foods, has had to pay for damage in a way that will caution other pet food companies regarding food safety.
I cannot even imagine the pain of watching my beloved dog Amber dying from poison dog food. At least the pet food companies in question, mostly Menu Foods, has had to pay for damage in a way that will caution other pet food companies regarding food safety.
2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
IMPORTANT - 2011 DC STOP MODERN SLAVERY WALK
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
REGISTER today! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in joining the walk planning team, email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org
On October 22, 2011, thousands of people will gather on the National Mall for the annual DC Stop Modern Slavery Walk, a united effort to celebrate human rights, raise awareness about the crime of human trafficking, and raise funds for organizations that are working to end human trafficking. We hope for full participation from the SMS community.
REGISTER today! http://walk.stopmodernslavery.org
If you are interested in joining the walk planning team, email walkvolunteer@stopmodernslavery.org
Stopping Slavery in South America RIGHT NOW
NEW - Curious about the status of efforts to combat modern-day slavery in South America?
Attend a stellar panel on the subject this Thursday evening at George Washington University. Journalists, law enforcement officials, NGO workers and government representatives from Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador and Panama will discuss their efforts to fight human trafficking in their respective countries, with an emphasis on combating the sexual exploitation of children.
Light refreshments will be provided.
When: Thursday, September 1; 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: GWU Elliott School of International Affairs, 1957 E St. NW, Lindner Family Commons, Room 602
RSVP: http://bit.ly/oYoeZM
Attend a stellar panel on the subject this Thursday evening at George Washington University. Journalists, law enforcement officials, NGO workers and government representatives from Argentina, Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador and Panama will discuss their efforts to fight human trafficking in their respective countries, with an emphasis on combating the sexual exploitation of children.
Light refreshments will be provided.
When: Thursday, September 1; 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: GWU Elliott School of International Affairs, 1957 E St. NW, Lindner Family Commons, Room 602
RSVP: http://bit.ly/oYoeZM
Animal Rescue During Hurricane Irene by PETA
PETA's Community Animal Project was out all night last night, braving impassable roads and downed power lines to respond to emergency calls and bringing relief to animals who were left outside or abandoned to fend for themselves during Irene, which pounded Hampton Roads all day and all night. Yes, they were pretty incredible, even though the worst of it came around midnight, when we were out in full force.
8.28.2011
Super Discount Airline!
Funny, back then the idea of a no frills airline still included pillows for passengers. Not any more!
U.S. Math Students Beat By Dog
Apparently, Beau the dog has memorized square roots. Most high school graduates don't even know what square roots were, when asked.
Planet of the dogs, anyone?
Click on title to this post for full story.
Planet of the dogs, anyone?
Click on title to this post for full story.
Dogs Not Allowed in New York City Bars Anymore
The New York City health department has decided to enforce health regulations that forbid dogs in city bars. Until recently, that was one regulation that was not enforced. Times have changed.
What is the real problem with dogs going into bars? The human mouth has far more disease than a dog's mouth. As long as the dog is house trained, there really should be no problem.
In Great Britain, dogs can go into restaurants. That's a good idea, too. My dog, Amber, is a good girl and very quiet in her old age. It would be great to have her at my feet while eating in a restaurant. Maybe if dogs could sit with their owners in sidewalk or outdoor cafes.
If other countries can manage to let dogs into restaurants and bars, why can't the United States find a way for it to work?
What is the real problem with dogs going into bars? The human mouth has far more disease than a dog's mouth. As long as the dog is house trained, there really should be no problem.
In Great Britain, dogs can go into restaurants. That's a good idea, too. My dog, Amber, is a good girl and very quiet in her old age. It would be great to have her at my feet while eating in a restaurant. Maybe if dogs could sit with their owners in sidewalk or outdoor cafes.
If other countries can manage to let dogs into restaurants and bars, why can't the United States find a way for it to work?
8.20.2011
Dog Friendly Beaches
California Dog Beaches:
Dog-Friendly Beach Cities
Arcata
McKinleyville
Avila Beach
Big Bear Lake
Big Sur
Carmel
Crescent City
Eureka
Samoa
Gorda
Gualala
Lake Tahoe
Kings Beach
South Lake Tahoe
Tahoe City
Zephyr Cove
Long Beach Area
Long Beach
Malibu
Marin - North Bay
Bodega Bay
Bolinas
Muir Beach
Olema
Stinson Beach
Mendocino
Caspar
Fort Bragg
Monterey
Pacific Grove
Orange County Beaches
Corona Del Mar
Huntington Beach
Newport Beach
Orange County South
Laguna Beach
Palo Alto - Peninsula
Half Moon Bay
Pacifica
Pescadero
Redwood National and State Parks
Crescent Beach
Orick
Trinidad
San Diego
Coronado
Imperial Beach
La Jolla
Ocean Beach
San Diego County North
Cardiff
Del Mar
San Francisco
San Luis Obispo
Cayucos
Oceano
Paso Robles
Pismo Beach
San Simeon
Santa Barbara
Goleta
Santa Cruz
Aptos
Davenport
Manresa
Sonoma Coast
Jenner
Salmon Creek
Sonoma Wine Country
Cloverdale
Healdsburg
Sea Ranch
Ventura - Oxnard
Oxnard
Ventura
Westport
Dog-Friendly Beach Cities
Arcata
McKinleyville
Avila Beach
Big Bear Lake
Big Sur
Carmel
Crescent City
Eureka
Samoa
Gorda
Gualala
Lake Tahoe
Kings Beach
South Lake Tahoe
Tahoe City
Zephyr Cove
Long Beach Area
Long Beach
Malibu
Marin - North Bay
Bodega Bay
Bolinas
Muir Beach
Olema
Stinson Beach
Mendocino
Caspar
Fort Bragg
Monterey
Pacific Grove
Orange County Beaches
Corona Del Mar
Huntington Beach
Newport Beach
Orange County South
Laguna Beach
Palo Alto - Peninsula
Half Moon Bay
Pacifica
Pescadero
Redwood National and State Parks
Crescent Beach
Orick
Trinidad
San Diego
Coronado
Imperial Beach
La Jolla
Ocean Beach
San Diego County North
Cardiff
Del Mar
San Francisco
San Luis Obispo
Cayucos
Oceano
Paso Robles
Pismo Beach
San Simeon
Santa Barbara
Goleta
Santa Cruz
Aptos
Davenport
Manresa
Sonoma Coast
Jenner
Salmon Creek
Sonoma Wine Country
Cloverdale
Healdsburg
Sea Ranch
Ventura - Oxnard
Oxnard
Ventura
Westport
Michael Vick Is Unrepentant
"What have I done to anybody? It was something that happened, and it was people trying to make some money." Michael Vick excuses his behavior in a GQ article with that quote.
This information just validates what I have thought all along: Michael Vick is a psychopath.
He can't even see that what he did is wrong. He feels victimized with no remorse and talking about it like it was some nonsensical fever that swept America that targeted him.
Years from now, the GQ article will be read with more interest because the essential problem has not changed: Michael Vick is a sociopath. Just like that Van der Slurp or whatever his name was in Aruba, the bastard is going to strike again. He has learned nothing from this.
This information just validates what I have thought all along: Michael Vick is a psychopath.
He can't even see that what he did is wrong. He feels victimized with no remorse and talking about it like it was some nonsensical fever that swept America that targeted him.
Years from now, the GQ article will be read with more interest because the essential problem has not changed: Michael Vick is a sociopath. Just like that Van der Slurp or whatever his name was in Aruba, the bastard is going to strike again. He has learned nothing from this.
Odd Dog Behaviors Explained
There are several behaviors that pet owners can find unusual.
Eating Rabbit Droppings
For example, some people notice their dogs eating rabbit droppings. Believe it or not, there is actually a flavor to the pellets that some dogs like; maybe because the protein or B-vitamin is very high.
Sporting dog breeds may do this as part of tracking or hunting behavior, too.
So is it bad for dogs to do? There’s no doubt it can upset their digestive tract if a large amount is eaten. Additionally, pets can get certain parasites from these droppings.
The best advice is to keep the yard clean with a rake, water-in the droppings or at least try to keep your dog away from these unfortunate rabbit gifts.
Scooting
Sometimes, dog owners will see their pets drag their rear end on the floor. This behavior is called scooting.
When they do this, dogs are basically scratching an itch. You may notice that it’s the more portly dogs that do this, and that’s probably because they can’t reach to scratch the itch by chewing.
The most common cause of this itching is a pair of fluid-filled glands that are similar to skunk glands. These glands get distended and it itches like crazy. So to try to get them to drain, they do this little itchy dance.
Allergies can also cause itchiness of the backside, but contrary to popular opinion, “worms” are not a common cause of scooting.
Reverse Sneezes
Another common, yet sometimes alarming, behavior is a reverse sneeze.
Dogs will clear their respiratory passage in three different ways:
When there is irritation in the front or nasal part of the upper airway, an out-through-the-nose sneeze occurs.
When the irritation is in the windpipe, the result is an out-through-the-mouth cough.
But irritation in the area in between, like the post-nasal-drip area, creates this inward snort, which is actually a way to slap the soft palate at the itchy back of the throat.
Now, as serious as this sounds, and many people think their dog is struggling to breathe, it is often just a little irritation or mild allergy response. But there are cases where pets have growths or polyps in the back of the throat that cause those signs, too.
Odd Behaviors
It’s interesting to see how pets have become part of our families, almost like our children, and yet they retain many of their natural tendencies.
The important take-home message is that if there doesn’t seem to be a logical explanation, and the behavior doesn’t stop on its own, you should seek the advice of your veterinarian.
If you want to contact the Pet Vet, Dr. David Visser, you can reach him at the Roseland Animal Hospital by calling 574-272-6100 or at the Center for Animal Health by calling 888-PETS-VETS.
You can also shoot him an email at MichianaPetVet@comcast.net.
Eating Rabbit Droppings
For example, some people notice their dogs eating rabbit droppings. Believe it or not, there is actually a flavor to the pellets that some dogs like; maybe because the protein or B-vitamin is very high.
Sporting dog breeds may do this as part of tracking or hunting behavior, too.
So is it bad for dogs to do? There’s no doubt it can upset their digestive tract if a large amount is eaten. Additionally, pets can get certain parasites from these droppings.
The best advice is to keep the yard clean with a rake, water-in the droppings or at least try to keep your dog away from these unfortunate rabbit gifts.
Scooting
Sometimes, dog owners will see their pets drag their rear end on the floor. This behavior is called scooting.
When they do this, dogs are basically scratching an itch. You may notice that it’s the more portly dogs that do this, and that’s probably because they can’t reach to scratch the itch by chewing.
The most common cause of this itching is a pair of fluid-filled glands that are similar to skunk glands. These glands get distended and it itches like crazy. So to try to get them to drain, they do this little itchy dance.
Allergies can also cause itchiness of the backside, but contrary to popular opinion, “worms” are not a common cause of scooting.
Reverse Sneezes
Another common, yet sometimes alarming, behavior is a reverse sneeze.
Dogs will clear their respiratory passage in three different ways:
When there is irritation in the front or nasal part of the upper airway, an out-through-the-nose sneeze occurs.
When the irritation is in the windpipe, the result is an out-through-the-mouth cough.
But irritation in the area in between, like the post-nasal-drip area, creates this inward snort, which is actually a way to slap the soft palate at the itchy back of the throat.
Now, as serious as this sounds, and many people think their dog is struggling to breathe, it is often just a little irritation or mild allergy response. But there are cases where pets have growths or polyps in the back of the throat that cause those signs, too.
Odd Behaviors
It’s interesting to see how pets have become part of our families, almost like our children, and yet they retain many of their natural tendencies.
The important take-home message is that if there doesn’t seem to be a logical explanation, and the behavior doesn’t stop on its own, you should seek the advice of your veterinarian.
If you want to contact the Pet Vet, Dr. David Visser, you can reach him at the Roseland Animal Hospital by calling 574-272-6100 or at the Center for Animal Health by calling 888-PETS-VETS.
You can also shoot him an email at MichianaPetVet@comcast.net.
8.18.2011
The UK UFO Files
The former head of the Ministry of Defence office in charge of investigating UFO sightings admits now that he intentionally discredited any and all UFO sightings.
The UK National Archives are releasing all the reports on this topic, some of which can be downloaded now by clicking in the title to this post.
The UK National Archives are releasing all the reports on this topic, some of which can be downloaded now by clicking in the title to this post.
Dog Theft is on the Rise in US
People are stealing dogs. The reasons vary, from selling the dog to holding it for ransom. The antidote to this type of crime is microchipping your dog. Another into get your dog from a pound. The resale value of a mutt is not much and thieves would not be tempted to steal the dog.
8.17.2011
Kim Jong Il in 2012 by Amazing Atheist
YouTube's The Amazing Atheist has a solution to all this partisan bickering in the U.S. Kim Jong Il for President! Watch and learn.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Franchises are Number ONE
But why spend the money?
There is no start up costs to a dog walking business. Advertising can be very cheap, too.
The nuts and bolts of starting and running a dog walking business are in the Dog Walker's Handbook, available for download for only a few dollars.
Buying a franchise is no guarantee of success. The Dog Walker's Handbook tells the ins and outs of the dog business, hurdles you can expect, and how to tips on dealing with basic business issues.
Check it out!
There is no start up costs to a dog walking business. Advertising can be very cheap, too.
The nuts and bolts of starting and running a dog walking business are in the Dog Walker's Handbook, available for download for only a few dollars.
Buying a franchise is no guarantee of success. The Dog Walker's Handbook tells the ins and outs of the dog business, hurdles you can expect, and how to tips on dealing with basic business issues.
Check it out!
8.16.2011
Dog on Imperial Beach
We take her to the beach at the end of town, which is a federal beach.
Imperial Beach
The waves were making a tube this morning.
8.10.2011
8.09.2011
Minnesota's Dog Owner Liability Statute
The Minnesota Court of Appeals has just decided to reverse a case related to a dog attack and send it back for retrial.
The facts of the case:
"On September 27, 2009, appellant Gordon Helmer Anderson was walking his small dog, Tuffy. When appellant and Tuffy walked in front of respondent Dennis Christopherson's house, a dog named Bruno ran out, picked Tuffy up in his jaws, and would not let go. Appellant attempted to separate the dogs and in doing so, fell and broke his hip."
The lower court dismissed the case, saying Minnesota's strict liability dog attack law did cover this incident. The Appellate Court reversed, ruling that the liability attaches upon the aggressive action of the dog and the decision on whether the dog Bruno's attack on the poodle Tuffy was the immediate cause of the broken hip was a question of facts that needed to be determined at another trial.
One of cases quoted in the opinion was about a nine-year-old boy who was killed when a driver was distracted by a dog in his car. In that case, the strict liability statute was said not to apply because the chain of events was too removed from the injury. In other words, the dog didn't directly kill the boy, the driver did.
Rather a harsh conclusion, but there was still a cause of action under negligence law.
Stay informed of the liability you incur with your dog and take the appropriate measures. No matter the money, you would just feel bad if someone, or their dog, got hurt.
The facts of the case:
"On September 27, 2009, appellant Gordon Helmer Anderson was walking his small dog, Tuffy. When appellant and Tuffy walked in front of respondent Dennis Christopherson's house, a dog named Bruno ran out, picked Tuffy up in his jaws, and would not let go. Appellant attempted to separate the dogs and in doing so, fell and broke his hip."
The lower court dismissed the case, saying Minnesota's strict liability dog attack law did cover this incident. The Appellate Court reversed, ruling that the liability attaches upon the aggressive action of the dog and the decision on whether the dog Bruno's attack on the poodle Tuffy was the immediate cause of the broken hip was a question of facts that needed to be determined at another trial.
One of cases quoted in the opinion was about a nine-year-old boy who was killed when a driver was distracted by a dog in his car. In that case, the strict liability statute was said not to apply because the chain of events was too removed from the injury. In other words, the dog didn't directly kill the boy, the driver did.
Rather a harsh conclusion, but there was still a cause of action under negligence law.
Stay informed of the liability you incur with your dog and take the appropriate measures. No matter the money, you would just feel bad if someone, or their dog, got hurt.
Justin Bieber is Allowed to Date My Niece
First of all, he has the same first name as my husband, which is a sign of good things.
Second, he chose to go to Japan after the tsunami and the risk of radiation from the failed nuclear reactor. What a nice, brave boy. He thought of other people and how they must be suffering and went to Japan to cheer them up. Also, his chance of impregnating my niece is reduced after that radiation exposure.
Third, he hasn't hit that "hey I've got a lot of money and can act like an idiot and no one can stop me" phase, which isn't due for another year or two - long past the lifespan of the average teen relationship. It's like being a toddler. You suddenly realize that Mom can go one way and you can go the other. What fun! Look at her jump around! Whee! And look at this glass bounce when I throw it to the ground! Fun!
So that's it, Bieber, you can date my niece.
Second, he chose to go to Japan after the tsunami and the risk of radiation from the failed nuclear reactor. What a nice, brave boy. He thought of other people and how they must be suffering and went to Japan to cheer them up. Also, his chance of impregnating my niece is reduced after that radiation exposure.
Third, he hasn't hit that "hey I've got a lot of money and can act like an idiot and no one can stop me" phase, which isn't due for another year or two - long past the lifespan of the average teen relationship. It's like being a toddler. You suddenly realize that Mom can go one way and you can go the other. What fun! Look at her jump around! Whee! And look at this glass bounce when I throw it to the ground! Fun!
So that's it, Bieber, you can date my niece.
8.08.2011
Dogs Ownership Reduces Crime
Dogs are a great way to get more exercise. They require several walks a day, which gets the owner up and about in the neighborhood and meeting the neighbors.
Studies have shown that the biggest deterrent to crime is just knowing your neighbors. We certainly wouldn't know as many neighbors as we do if it wasn't for Amber. Just by walking around the area a few times a day we get to see and chat with the people living nearby. So we know who lives around us, and who doesn't.
Also, seeing people walking around the area is a deterrent itself to crime. People generally don't break into cars when someone is walking on the same street. Same with houses.
And, of course, houses are less likely to be broken into when a dog is in the house. Although there has been a disturbing trend in DC where dogs are being cholorformed by burgulars. But still, it is a good general rule.
Dogs are the first animal to be domesticated by man. They have evolved alongside us for thousands of years. It is a natural relationship that benefits both parties.
Studies have shown that the biggest deterrent to crime is just knowing your neighbors. We certainly wouldn't know as many neighbors as we do if it wasn't for Amber. Just by walking around the area a few times a day we get to see and chat with the people living nearby. So we know who lives around us, and who doesn't.
Also, seeing people walking around the area is a deterrent itself to crime. People generally don't break into cars when someone is walking on the same street. Same with houses.
And, of course, houses are less likely to be broken into when a dog is in the house. Although there has been a disturbing trend in DC where dogs are being cholorformed by burgulars. But still, it is a good general rule.
Dogs are the first animal to be domesticated by man. They have evolved alongside us for thousands of years. It is a natural relationship that benefits both parties.
7.11.2011
The Rutland and Stamford Mercury, a U.K. Newspaper NOT involved in the current wiretapping scandal, reports that cows are head-butting dog walkers who cut through their fields.
' A DOG walker has warned people using rights of way about the dangers of walking through cattle fields.
Curtis Fermor-Dunmare, 33, of Rutland Heights, Stamford, was attacked by a herd near Elton when he was out walking his two dogs last week.
The cows chased him and headbutted him in an attempt to get to the dogs, a cockerspaniel and a labrador.
He said: “I was absolutely terrified. We’re told to keep dogs on leads, but in this case it would have been better to let them off and run.” '
This is never reported in the United States. Maybe it's leftover from mad cow disease.
' A DOG walker has warned people using rights of way about the dangers of walking through cattle fields.
Curtis Fermor-Dunmare, 33, of Rutland Heights, Stamford, was attacked by a herd near Elton when he was out walking his two dogs last week.
The cows chased him and headbutted him in an attempt to get to the dogs, a cockerspaniel and a labrador.
He said: “I was absolutely terrified. We’re told to keep dogs on leads, but in this case it would have been better to let them off and run.” '
This is never reported in the United States. Maybe it's leftover from mad cow disease.
Family Dog Trained as PTSD Helper
A soldier returning from Iraq had serious PTSD symptoms, and chose her dog to get trained as a helper dog to relieve her of her anxiety. It worked wonderfully.
In a larger sense, our pets were bred for a useful purpose, and it helps them and us to train our pets to do something useful.
The story can be accessed by clicking on the title to this post.
In a larger sense, our pets were bred for a useful purpose, and it helps them and us to train our pets to do something useful.
The story can be accessed by clicking on the title to this post.
7.10.2011
Dog Walkers Banned in UK Park -But Not Drunken Parties
Moss Park, in Middlewich, UK, is a place of dog walking controversy. It's seems that irresponsible dog walkers have led to the park being closed to dogs. However, the ban has not been extended to irresponsible partiers.
A letter to the editor of the Middlewich Guardian complains of abandoned clothing lying all over the place as more offensive than dog poop. I have to agree. Dog poop may be annoying and offensive, but nothing says "trashy" more than abandoned clothes lying all over the ground in the morning. To say nothing about the cans and beer bottles.
As a former resident of Columbia Heights, DC, I would walk my dog on weekend mornings and marvel at the single shoes and shirts and socks lying on the street. Did someone actually lose their shoe, only one of them, and not realize it enough to stop and pick it up? That amazes me. Especially since they were often high heels. How could you walk on high heel and not notice the other was gone? It would be like one leg suddenly becoming longer by three inches. You are inclined to notice these things.
So Moss Park is dog-free but not party-free. I'd be outraged, too.
A letter to the editor of the Middlewich Guardian complains of abandoned clothing lying all over the place as more offensive than dog poop. I have to agree. Dog poop may be annoying and offensive, but nothing says "trashy" more than abandoned clothes lying all over the ground in the morning. To say nothing about the cans and beer bottles.
As a former resident of Columbia Heights, DC, I would walk my dog on weekend mornings and marvel at the single shoes and shirts and socks lying on the street. Did someone actually lose their shoe, only one of them, and not realize it enough to stop and pick it up? That amazes me. Especially since they were often high heels. How could you walk on high heel and not notice the other was gone? It would be like one leg suddenly becoming longer by three inches. You are inclined to notice these things.
So Moss Park is dog-free but not party-free. I'd be outraged, too.
7.05.2011
What Your Dog is Trying to Tell You
My dog Amber must be part retriever because, her entire life, she has grabbed socks and things and walked around the room when we got her leash for a walk. I never understood this. Doesn't she want to go on a walk? Sooner rather than later?
According to a new book out of Great Britain, In Defence of Dogs, this is just normal excited behavior for a retriever. They love to retrieve and will pick up anything at hand that will do the job.
We bought Amber from drug dealers on the street in Columbia Heights, DC, when the neighborhood was much worse than it is now. In 2002, drug gangs were having a turf war and young men were stationed on every corner throughout the night to protect their territory. One of these young men sold us Amber for nine dollars. He said he wanted her to have a good life.
To say the least, Amber was excitable when we first brought her home. But we loved her and worked with her to calm her down. It took a while.
But no matter what, she still grabs a sock or toy in her mouth and runs around when she gets excited. We have never done a DNA test on her breed, but her behavior is that of a retriever, according to this new book.
According to a new book out of Great Britain, In Defence of Dogs, this is just normal excited behavior for a retriever. They love to retrieve and will pick up anything at hand that will do the job.
We bought Amber from drug dealers on the street in Columbia Heights, DC, when the neighborhood was much worse than it is now. In 2002, drug gangs were having a turf war and young men were stationed on every corner throughout the night to protect their territory. One of these young men sold us Amber for nine dollars. He said he wanted her to have a good life.
To say the least, Amber was excitable when we first brought her home. But we loved her and worked with her to calm her down. It took a while.
But no matter what, she still grabs a sock or toy in her mouth and runs around when she gets excited. We have never done a DNA test on her breed, but her behavior is that of a retriever, according to this new book.
7.01.2011
Doggie DNA
The DNA of dogs is being used to determine which owners are not picking up the poop from their beloved pets.
Personally, I think it's kind of funny.
Dog poop can really bring down an apartment complex. The stink, the fleas, it can ruin even the nicest of places.
No doubt there are people who will consider this activity a violation of their rights. But the dog doesn't have any constitutional rights. Neither does his publicly-deposited poop.
So scofflaws - beware! The dog poop police are out to get you.
See article in New York Times on this issue by clicking on the title to this post.
Personally, I think it's kind of funny.
Dog poop can really bring down an apartment complex. The stink, the fleas, it can ruin even the nicest of places.
No doubt there are people who will consider this activity a violation of their rights. But the dog doesn't have any constitutional rights. Neither does his publicly-deposited poop.
So scofflaws - beware! The dog poop police are out to get you.
See article in New York Times on this issue by clicking on the title to this post.
Dominique Strauss Kahn Should Be Prosecuted
Why is the Establishment press letting DSK off the hook on such specious arguments?
Frankly, I'm shocked. If ever there was an argument for how the United States has a controlled press, this incident would be it.
First of all, what does any of the allegations against the maid in question have to do with what happened to her? I don't care if she kills people for a living, if she was raped, she was raped.
Her asylum status, her previous connections with drug dealers, etc. have nothing to do with what happened to her. She was forced to blow some old, fat white guy. If she were robbed, would the police and District Attorney refuse to press charges?
It seems the only person in the United States who can get raped is a 12-year-old honor student who never cut class.
This decision not to prosecute means open season on all women in America.
Frankly, I'm shocked. If ever there was an argument for how the United States has a controlled press, this incident would be it.
First of all, what does any of the allegations against the maid in question have to do with what happened to her? I don't care if she kills people for a living, if she was raped, she was raped.
Her asylum status, her previous connections with drug dealers, etc. have nothing to do with what happened to her. She was forced to blow some old, fat white guy. If she were robbed, would the police and District Attorney refuse to press charges?
It seems the only person in the United States who can get raped is a 12-year-old honor student who never cut class.
This decision not to prosecute means open season on all women in America.
6.29.2011
Bill W's Story
Click on this link and see a video rendition of Bill W.'s story as told in the book Alcoholics Anonymous.
The actor is David Dieudonne, a Washington DC-based actor. The camera work was done by Selena Shea.
The actor is David Dieudonne, a Washington DC-based actor. The camera work was done by Selena Shea.
6.18.2011
6.13.2011
Deer Attacks Dog in Middle of City
In Winnipeg, Canada, a deer charged a woman and her dog. The woman had to run around stopped cars in the road to avoid the attack. She eventually got some relief from a motorist with an offer of refuge in a car. The deer still glared at the motorist through the windshield.
The woman was walking her border collie to Starbucks.
Click on the title to this post for the full story.
The woman was walking her border collie to Starbucks.
Click on the title to this post for the full story.
6.09.2011
Suge Knight Joins with PETA to Fight Dog Chaining
Former Death Row Records CEO Marion "Suge" Knight is speaking out against chaining dogs in conjunction with PETA.
"Dogs deserve our love and attention not a life of ‘solitary confinement’ at the end of a chain,” Knight said via a statement. “Dogs depend on us to take care of them, to keep them safe and healthy. Chaining a dog is one of the cruelest things you can to do them – they are social animals.”
"Dogs deserve our love and attention not a life of ‘solitary confinement’ at the end of a chain,” Knight said via a statement. “Dogs depend on us to take care of them, to keep them safe and healthy. Chaining a dog is one of the cruelest things you can to do them – they are social animals.”
Soho Tea and Coffee, 22nd and P NW
Soho Tea and Coffee is an office away from an office. Love it. It's in Washington, DC at 22nd & P Streets, NW. They have a game night and used to have stand-up comedy night, too. I actually performed at one of them, and brought some friends along to laugh at my jokes.
Great classical music in the mornings. Nice a quiet then, too.
Great classical music in the mornings. Nice a quiet then, too.
Dog Helps Vet with PTSD Symptoms
Good Morning America had a great story about a young German Shepard dog helping a Vietnam Vet with PTSD with his symptoms. What I love about German Shepards in particular is how smart they are.
My husband has promised that I can pick our next dog and I want a German Shepard from Germany. The American German Shepard is bred for looks. The German German Shepard is bred for intelligence. Our dog right now is Amber, and she is brilliant - half German Shepard and half pit bull. Pit bulls are generally not known for their brains. My little princess is smart, however. She loves chewing gum, and you always have to watch your packs of gum with her around.
I like seeing that dogs are being given useful tasks in our society. They have attributes that we lack, like keen sense of smell and sharp eyes. I have even heard of dogs being able to smell cancer from lab specimens.
Maybe so many animals wouldn't be killed in shelters every year if there were useful jobs for them to do.
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