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Social Security, The War Powers Act, Obamacare… each one of these laws were created after formal introduction, public and sometimes spirited debate, passage by both houses of Congress and presidential signature. Laws made by Congress, called statutes, are subject to interpretation by the judicial branch of government. Still, the courts can only say what they think Congress meant by the language contained in statutes; they can't make up language that isn't there. Some laws, however, are made by the courts, on the theory that the U.S. Constitution requires some type of action or protection that Congress hasn't passed. Unlike statutes, these laws can be announced without much warning and yet have vast and profound far reaching effects. Consider a burglary that occurred in a Florida poolroom several decades ago. Based upon the word of a single eyewitness who indicated he saw him coming out of the establishment, Clarence Earl Gideon was arrested and charged with breaking and entering. Gideon had no money for a lawyer and was told by the Florida court that, inasmuch as he wasn't charged with a "capital offense" (murder), the state had no obligation to provide him one. Despite representing himself as best as he could, Gideon was convicted. While serving a 5 year prison stretch, Gideon sued Florida, claiming his constitution rights were violated. He made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled in 1963 in Gideon v. Wainwright that the 14th Amendment due process clause of the U.S. Constitution requires all states to provide all indigent criminal defendants with a lawyer. This pronouncement, never mandated by Congress, extraordinarily changed the criminal justice system in this country forever. Against this backdrop, consider a court ruling that implies, in the absence of a state statute on the subject, that all horses of all breeds may possess vicious propensities. If such a determination is finally made by the courts, the effects would be devastating for the entire equine industry. The facts of the underlying case, Vendrella v Astriab, are simple. Astriab operates a combined retail plant business and horse boarding stable in Milford, Connecticut. It was admitted that the plant customers, especially those with small children, constantly asked to see the horses. Astriab could have erected a barrier between the two businesses, but didn't because, as was indicated, customers expected to see the horses. One day after buying plants, a father escorted his two-year-old son to view the horses. Standing close to the fence, the father proceeded to pet a horse named Scuppy. When the father turned away, Scuppy lowered his head and bit the child, taking a chunk out of his cheek. The injury required corrective surgery, resulting in permanent scarring. An action against Astriab for negligence soon followed. Before the case ever got to trial, Astriab's lawyer made a motion before the court seeking "summary judgment." The application stated that there was no reason for a trial, because there was no proof that Scuppy had previously misbehaved in any way, much less having ever bitten anybody. Based upon century-old Connecticut law, the Court granted the application. In dismissing that case, the judge indicated that inasmuch as pre-trial discovery proceedings had failed to uncover any evidence that Astriab knew or should have known that Scuppy could be vicious, he owed no duty to the child to protect him in any way beyond fencing the paddock. The finding of the lower court is consistent with established law in most jurisdictions involving liability for injury caused by domestic animals. In New York, for example, dog bites are not actionable unless there is either actual knowledge of a previous bite or evidence that it had been known to growl, snap or bare its teeth. Also, severely restraining the dog or keeping the dog as a guard dog may give rise to an inference that an owner had knowledge of the dog's vicious propensities. In sum, a previous bite would render the dog as having vicious propensities, but the first bite is not "free" if the owner had other reason to know that the dog could injure someone, despite absence of a previous bite. The plaintiff in the Astriab matter appealed the judge's decision on the theory that horses are of the class of animals that, by their very nature, have vicious propensities. In other words, the plaintiff argued that it was not necessary to prove Scuppy was vicious, since he belongs to a species naturally inclined to do mischief or be vicious, thus rendering future injuries foreseeable, even if Scuppy never exhibited vicious tendencies. In February 2012, the appeals court determined that the trial court judge was wrong, and that the case should be sent back to the lower court. Although incorrectly reported by many mainstream media outlets, the appeals court did not determine whether all horses are vicious. Rather, it ruled that the question was one of fact, not law, which had to be resolved at trial. In reversing the lower court, the appeals judges based their decision upon a number of different grounds. First, the appeals court noted that during discovery proceedings a doctor of veterinary medicine provided a detailed description of "the propensities of horses to bite." A lifelong horseman similarly testified in his deposition that a horse can bite at any time, explaining that "[t]hey have been doing it . . . since the beginning of time, biting and kicking." For that reason, he explained that he always fed a horse either with a bucket or "palm up—I never put my fingers anywhere near the mouth of a horse." He further testified that a horse's propensity to bite is part of its nature. Second, the appeals court used Astriab's own deposition testimony against him. He acknowledged that horses, by their very nature, could harm a person who attempted to pet or feed them, stating that "a horse could bite you and cause great physical damage." He also testified that although he had no knowledge of Scuppy biting a person prior to the bite in question, Scuppy was no different from other horses that would bite if a finger was put in front of him. He admitted that if someone made contact with Scuppy, whether to pet or feed him, they could get bit. The appeals judges also took note of the fact that although Astriab was cognizant of the fact all horses bite, he chose not to erect a barrier between the customers and the horses. Finally, in reviewing Connecticut case law, the appeals court rejected the trial court's interpretation of the century-old precedent relied upon by that judge. They pointed out that the 1914 decision involved a cat, and that the court in its opinion stated, "The cat is not of a species of domestic animals naturally inclined to mischief, such as, for example, cattle, whose instinct is to rove, and whose practice is to eat and trample growing crops. The cat's disposition is kindly and docile, and by nature it is one of the most tame and harmless of all domestic animals." The appeals court reasoned that in making the cat/cattle comparison, the 1914 court implicitly acknowledged that in determining the care that an owner must exercise to keep an animal under control, the characteristics that are normal to its class are decisive. Needless to say, Astriab appealed the ruling before the trial court had an opportunity to take up the matter On Tuesday, September 24, 2013, Connecticut's highest court, the Supreme Court, heard oral argument from both sides regarding the propriety of the appeals judges' decision. In addition to legal briefs filed by the parties, "Friend of the Court" briefs were filed by Connecticut's Farm Bureau and Horse Council. Both urged the high court to reverse the appeals court and reinstate the ruling of the trial level judge which dismissed the negligence action. A decision in the matter is not expected for several months. If the appeals court decision is affirmed, the case will be sent back to the trial court. If that court finds all horses to be inherently vicious and dangerous by nature, Connecticut would be the first state in the nation to do so. While not binding on other states, it would be a persuasive decision which courts in other jurisdictions might adopt. How much is riding on the Connecticut courts' treatment of the matter? For the equine industry, including the racing and breeding industries, virtually everything. If horses are deemed to have inherent vicious propensities by nature, equine farms; training centers; riding academies; summer camps, virtually anywhere guests, customers, vendors or other third parties come in regular contact with horses, would be rendered uninsurable. It would more than likely spell the end of youth contact with horses. While waivers of liability could be required for participants, such relinquishments of rights by parties are vigilantly scrutinized by courts in order to protect victim's rights. Insurance companies know this well, and will more than likely walk away from the industry. At best, liability insurance for equine operations would become prohibitively expensive, akin to an assigned risk pool for auto drivers with multiple accident histories. As this case exhibits, judges making wide-ranging law within limited factual settings can be downright dangerous. Based upon admissions made at a deposition by an unwitting businessman conducted by a sharp lawyer, horses may forever be lumped into a category shared by lions and tigers. All of us have known an ornery horse. Yet, for every one of them, we've known horses that could qualify as house pets. Yes, horses have teeth; so do dogs, and the potential for biting in a given circumstance is ever present. There is, however, a difference between potential and propensity. The thought that horses have a built-in predilection to do harm, while dogs and cats are by nature not so inclined, is asinine reasoning. Moreover, the analogy made of horses to cattle trampling crops is equally alarming. Any animal, and most humans, will act with physical force in a given circumstance, be it defensive, out of fear or illness, or by accident. Thus, isn't every animal geared for provocative conduct in an appropriate situation? Does it render them all as possessing vicious propensities? Hopefully, the high court will do the right thing and uphold dismissal of the lawsuit. If not, it could ultimately be up to Connecticut's legislature to develop a statute which categorizes horses as generally tame and docile. That, of course, would require the industry to navigate the political thickets, with an outcome far from certain and, in any event, subject to scrutiny by the same Connecticut court system. This is a mess that could get much worse, and for now, all we can do is wait and hope. Chris E. Wittstruck is an attorney, a director of the Standardbred Owners Association of New York and a charter member of the Albany Law School Racing and Gaming Law Network. Reprinted with permission by www.ustrotting.com
If you decide to drop a claim slip in with the judges, it's fair to say that you've done all your homework first. You've looked at pedigree; studied past performances; watched how the horse makes it around the oval for several weeks and generally have the feel that you can get him to be competitive in a higher class in rapid fashion.
If you think that it's laudable to employ an undocumented alien because you're helping out someone who desperately needs a job so he can eat, you're arguably correct. While the immigration debate rages on in Washington, folks already here aren't always treated with human kindness or afforded human dignity.
What has been described in some quarters as the biggest doping scandal in racing history occurred in England last month. The magnitude of the incident aside, there is a lesson to be learned from this notorious event that has little to do with doping. The message developed is this: Advocate for others only that which you truly practice yourself.
As April 15 rapidly approaches, our thoughts turn to the annual tradition of paying the taxing authorities their due. In addition to being assessed for money earned through work, labor and services (for many called salary), those harness racing owners privileged enough to have realized purse earnings in excess of training and related expenses for the tax year are required to pay what the government is owed on such profit.
Human nature being such as it is, there is a strong tendency to blame others for our troubles. In the harness racing industry, a popular target of our rants is government. In fairness, our rage is not always completely misplaced.
The cry is heard constantly; 'Why is that guy still training? He was suspended over a year ago!' The answer is really quite simple. Those charged with a violation have a fundamental right to exhibit that they have been wrongfully accused and should be exonerated, and deserve a stay of enforcement of penalties until that right has been fully exhausted.
We've discussed the New Jersey sports betting issue before, but recent developments warrant that harness racing address the topic again. While the legal controversy over sports betting presently rages only in the Garden State, the ultimate outcome will affect every state in the union. In sum, and as we suggested last summer, proponents, including the state's Governor, shouldn't hold their breath awaiting sports betting's arrival.
The Standardbred Owners Association of New York was proud to yet again honor one of its journeyman reinsmen for achieving a haness racing career plateau. On Friday evening, December 21, the SOA feted Cleveland, Ohio native Jim Pantaleano in the Yonkers Raceway winner's circle and recognized him for capturing his 6,000 lifetime victory.
What happens in Vegas... doesn't necessarily stay in Vegas!
At every racetrack, on every harness racing date, there are multiple tips about virtually every horse in every race.
The annual general membership meeting of the Standardbred Owners Association of New York was held on Saturday, December 1 at the organization's office in Yonkers, New York.
How has man historically employed the horse? Up until the late 1800s, the irrefutable answer was that horses were primarily used as beasts of both burden and transportation.
A thriving equine industry, which includes harness racing, is vital to the health of the New York State economy, according to the results of a study released today (Tuesday October 16).
Responsibility is a word that possesses both ethical and legal connotations. I'm not legally responsible to help a stranded motorist on a cold and rainy winter night, but pangs of conscience might persuade me that pulling over to help is the right thing to do.
Given recent attendance declines and the fact that only 550 broodmares remain in the country, you'd never think that German harness racing could survive; but enter the PMU (French Tote).


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eNewsletter — December 2009 Archives
December 17, 2009
From the Dean ~ Winter 2009
I hope you and yours are doing well during this holiday season. As you will see from this issue of our eNewsletter, there has been a lot going on during the Fall semester at the VCU School of Social Work. Our faculty have been involved in interesting and important research, teaching and community service activities, and staff, students and faculty have been actively engaged in our Community Reach Out initiative that was started last year. We are also very proud to have had alumnus Mr. Paul McWhinney (MSW, 1979; BSW, 1974) and faculty member, Dr. Elizabeth Cramer, initiated into Phi Kappa Phi along with some of our most outstanding students.
In this newsletter we also continue to provide alumni updates. We do love to hear from you, so if you have some updates to share please log into our Alumni Updates Survey and let us know.
I know this has been a difficult financial year for many of you, and that includes our students. As many of our alumni know, the debt load our students accumulate in the pursuit of their social work degree is astounding. Because of this, we have made it a priority in the coming year to expand our efforts to secure dollars for student scholarships. Achieving our goals, however, is going to be dependent upon individuals like you who donate to the School of Social Work, so I urge you to make a donation to the School. If you have any questions pertaining to charitable giving to the School please feel free to contact me directly, or you can go to our website to make your gift: www.givenow.vcu.edu/SocialWork.
Thank you in advance for your valued support to our school. Happy holidays from the School of Social Work !
Ann Nichols-Casebolt, Ph.D.
Interim Dean
Latina Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening: Attitudes of Consumers and Providers
by Jacqueline Corcoran, Elizabeth Hutchison, Professor Emeritus, and Janice Berry-Edwards
Striking disparities exist for Latinas in terms of breast and cervical cancer screening in the United States. Although the incidence of breast cancer is lower for Latinas than for non-Latina white women, Latinas are less likely than non-Latina white women to be diagnosed in early stages (Lantz et al., 2006) and to receive needed care. Furthermore, the incidence rate of breast cancer in Latinas is growing three times faster than the rate for non-Latina white women, and the rate of mammography screening has been declining in Latinas recently (Sheppard et al., 2008).For cervical cancer, the rate for Latinas is about twice that of non-Latinas and is highest out of all ethnic groups. The annual death rate from cervical cancer for Latinas is 24.2 out of 100,000 (McDougall, Madeleine, Daling, & Li, 2007). Even when Latinas with no health insurance were serviced by a safety-net system for people with low income, still 18.9% of Latina-Americans and 16.8% of Latina immigrants had never had a Pap smear (Owusu et al., 2005). As the number of Latinos in the United States continues to grow, greater attention to ways to deliver effective medical care to this population is imperative.
Read more begins here….
Faculty at NOVA were approached by social worker, Wendy Sittner (VCU alumnus), from the Medical Clinic at the Northern Virginia Medical Education because she and her director wanted to conduct a focus group study with their Latina consumers and area service providers to determine Latinas' non-use of the clinic for cervical and breast cancer screening.
The consumer focus group was attended by 14 women, ranging in age from 20 to 69. Three women were patients at the medical clinic, but the majority was not. A wide variety of countries were represented: five women were from Honduras; three were from El Savador; two were from Guatemala; and Bolivia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Peru were represented by one person each.
When findings were analyzed across consumers and service providers, the themes clustered around these main categories:
-facilitators and recommendations
Consumers had limited knowledge of both PAP smears and breast cancer screening, and perceived that both involved a great deal of pain, which they feared. Consumer participants were unaware that PAP smears were associated with cervical cancer prevention; their experience of PAP smears was limited to prenatal care. Related to breast cancer, consumers believed that injury to the breast was its cause. One participant stated, "My sister was hit and the impact caused breast cancer." The service provider participants noted that Latinas often do not understand the concept of prevention because of their experiences in their countries of origin with lack of preventative care. If there were no symptoms (and cervical cancer is an initially asymptomatic disease), Latinas did not see the need for screenings.
Barriers to screening included the perceived inaccessibility of the health care system and difficulty negotiating its complications. One consumer stated, "…there were too many requirements…six months of making phone calls." Lack of financial and health care resources were also named as prime barriers. A consumer participant explained, "It's expensive to go to doctor, which means cancer is detected late."
Service providers emphasized the inaccessibility of the health care system. One participant said, "Even when our programs have resources, there is a problem with navigation of services, going from one office to the next, a lot of running around. We don't cover all; if need hospital — if they need to be hospitalized — that is where we stop, they then need to apply for other programs. Every step they need to be prepared to be assessed… Undocumented won't be an issue for getting services; however access to resources is complicated … it is impossible."
Along with noting that there were few places to obtain free or low-cost cancer prevention screenings, one service provider participant explained the differences between medicine as practiced in Latinas' countries of origin and the U.S.: "Medicine is so commercialized here. They don't trust; they just want money. The mistrust is shared. Doctors here are well to do; in our countries they are working class like anyone else. Different perspective of doctors, don't believe in them as they believe in the doctors back home."
Another category of barriers had to do with the experience of being an immigrant. Both consumers and service providers mentioned language barriers, which at least one consumer thought might have involved discrimination for services. She said, "They shouldn't ignore people. I went to three clinics, and they always put me off to another day because I don't speak English." Language barriers arise at many points of the screening process – to schedule and arrange appointments, provide personal information, to understand recommendations to obtain screenings, and to ask questions and understand the procedure of screenings. Providers further contributed to the understanding of language barriers in mentioning that Latinas had often not learned to read in their native language. Therefore, even information provided in written Spanish may not help some women understand the necessity of breast and cervical cancer screening and where it could be accessed.
Another barrier to screenings involved the cultural value of modesty. Consumers reported feelings fearful and embarrassed about submitting to screenings. Women lacked familiarity with the examinations ("Not knowing what the doctors are going to do") and believed they involved indecorous behavior ("…because people are scared and embarrassed to get checked").
Another factor related to immigrant status was women's unwillingness to seek services because of their undocumented status. Service providers elaborated on this barrier. One participant stated, "If it is a free service…like mammogram. They think not a good thing. You are like a burden to the community. Will I have some problem when I try to fix my legal status?" Another provider explained, "The misconceptions out there are tremendous. Takes so much time to explain… to put away fears that they are not going to be deported. They are mistrustful because of many incidences of things that have happened."
An additional barrier named by service providers involved Latina cultural beliefs that their role in life is to care for the family. As one service provider said, "They don't put themselves first; they put family first." As a result, women might be reluctant to seek screenings for themselves when there were other needs in the family.
Another cultural belief was fatalism. A service provider participant explained, "Faith in what God will provide, and what God has in store from them, prevents them from preventive measures, and is what prevents them from doing what they need. That acceptance of what they cannot change and from a higher power, sometimes it is a difficult barrier to break and to take the next step."
Another barrier named by service providers was the lack of time women in the area had to devote to screenings. One participant said, "They are too busy. They do not have the time. They do not. They work two jobs. They barely have time for their children. Two to three jobs. Not that they are not aware. … they don't have the time." Another noted that free screenings were often terribly time consuming. She said, "Sometimes, they prefer to spend money because they get an appointment and see the doctor in one day, rather than lose one day for free service appointment. For free service, fill out papers …. Time. . . Time . .. Time."
Facilitators and Recommendations
Consumers' main response to factors that facilitated screenings involved Spanish speaking providers. Service providers had many more ideas about facilitators of screenings. Outreach was one category of responses, although types of outreach varied considerably. Personal outreach to Latinas by service providers was one method named. Other means of outreach were community centers, churches, health fairs, mobile mammogram vans, and through community icons/leaders.
Another category of responses had to do with education about breast and cervical cancer and their prevention. A further facilitator was the level of comfort women experienced with providers. If there was a trusting relationship in which women felt cared about, they were more likely to submit to screening. Service providers also said that "word of mouth" was a powerful medium for Latinas. They were more likely to follow through with screenings if information was given to them personally in Spanish.
Conclusion and Implications for Social Work
Closing the gap on health disparities will require sustained, multi-level efforts; social workers can make substantial contributions to this effort. First, social workers can provide education or advocate for the provision of education about breast and cervical cancer prevention. Education would need to demystify the process of the examinations, so women would know what to expect. Myths Latinas may hold about breast and cervical cancer (i.e., that it is due to trauma) could be dispelled, and correct information could be provided in the form of Spanish-speaking videos, pamphlets, and televised educational campaigns. Indeed, an educational video intervention program for Latina breast cancer prevention has been designed and tested (Borrayo, 2004). Social workers could advocate for such campaigns and disseminate knowledge about already existing resources.
Note : This paper was presented at the Council on Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting, 2008. Grateful acknowledgement to Wendy Sittner, Victoria Castro, Jacqueline Larkowich, and Kristin Wheeler for their assistance with this project.
Dr. Jacqueline Corcoran
Dr. Elizabeth Hutchison, Professor Emeritus
Dr. Janice Berry-Edwards
"Sheriff! This person is disturbing the peace!": Experiential Exercises in the Social Work Classroom
by Liz Cramer
It is a Wednesday afternoon at 3:45 and several students in my social justice class are sitting in the classroom waiting for the 4 pm class to begin. Some are taking notebooks out of backpacks while others are talking amongst themselves. I pick out six students to stay in the classroom while the rest are asked to wait in the hallway until we are ready for them ("Should we bring our stuff?" "What is going on?" "Why do we need to wait in the hallway?"). I post a note on the door that instructs the students to stay quietly in the hallway until I come to get them. The six students in the classroom are briefed about the experiential activity we will be doing (called "Lifeline") and they are told that they are the workers in this activity. Their stations or roles in the activity include: bank, housing, jobs, complaint desk, escort, finish line, and sheriff. They are urged to stay "in role" throughout the activity.
Read more begins here….
In a few minutes, after we transform the room into stations, a jail, a waiting area, and a VIP section, the other students will come through the door one-by-one and each will be given a nametag with three letters. Some of the nametags will also have a color line on them. The letters and colors on the nametags indicate the social locations of the person (such as income level, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability), which will signal to the worker how to treat the person during the activity. Participants do not know what their labels mean or why they are being treated the way that they are during the activity.
After about 45 minutes, the activity ends and the processing begins. There may be a few people in jail; they may have spent most of the activity in there or they possibly could have been "released" for a bit and then brought back in for an alleged violation. Those might likely to end up in jail are racial and ethnic minorities, low income persons, gays and lesbians, and Muslims. Participants labeled as Muslim are the only ones that are "searched" by the Sheriff when they enter the room and receive their nametag. The upper class, white male and female are sitting in the VIP section (after being waited on by the escort and taken directly to the front of the line of the stations regardless of how long others had waited) and often they have received a mansion, high status jobs, and vacation homes. There are usually a couple of low-income people who haven't made it past the first station because they could not understand the gibberish application form that was given to them to receive their money, which they needed to obtain their housing and jobs. They might have attempted to complain through the complaint desk only to witness the worker ball up the piece of paper and throw it away. A couple of lesbian or gay male participants might be segregated from the other participants and they may have watched the workers at each station pretend to spray Lysol on their seat when they vacated it. They may have also been told that they could not possibly have a job that would involve working with children. Low-income Hispanic men and women may have been told that they can't have 10 or 12 family members in their house, a run-down small structure with a broken window and shutters falling off. The escort begrudgingly assists participants who use a wheelchair throughout the game because they are told they cannot manage this by themselves. Others speak to them very slowly and in a loud voice as if their need to use an assistive device means that they also are deaf or have a cognitive impairment.
At the beginning of the processing time, I ask students to remove their nametags and I ask them what they think the letters and colors on their nametag means. They often are able to guess their social locations based on what the workers said to them. Sometimes the lesbian and gay participants think that perhaps they are criminals or have AIDS. Muslim participants also sometimes wonder if they are criminals or illegally in the U.S. Participants discuss what they were thinking and feeling during the exercise. The students who played the workers also describe what the exercise was like for them. (I do tell the participants that the student who were workers were instructed to play a role because the workers are worried about the other students being upset with them.) Sometimes, a worker will admit that it became "too easy" to treat people according to stereotypes and to abuse the power in their role. This leads into a discussion of some of the ways that oppressed populations are treated in society and by human service and other organizations. Many of the suggestions that the workers receive for ways to treat people based on the labels are drawn directly from incidents that I've witnessed or that others have shared with me (including the Lysol-spraying).
At the end of the processing, I ask a person from each income group to read his or her finish letter. The letter for low-income participants ("Dear Client") starts off by acknowledging that life may not be easy and options are limited; however, their attributes have not made it possible for them to be top performers. They are encouraged to think positively and to see their path through life as a learning experience, including the opportunity to learn patience, a wonderful attribute. The letter closes by reminding them that those on the fast track need to slow down and spend more time watching the daisies and fortunately for them, they have those golden moments when there is a chance to contemplate life as it passes them by. The letter for middle-income participants ("Dear Upwardly Mobile American") notes that they have passed all stations of Lifeline successfully and that they have managed fairly well through life because of their steadfast commitment to the status quo and because they did not rock the boat. They have kept their head down and not questioned the system too carefully and as a result they have reaped the benefits that come to the unaware and apathetic. The letter closes with a hope that they will have a few years of retirement as a reward for their complicity; however ongoing health care benefits, retirement funds, and social security cannot be guaranteed because profit margins must be kept at acceptable levels. The letter for upper-income participants ("Dear Esteemed Colleague") indicates that they have passed all the stations of the Lifeline successfully and that their competence is demonstrated by their remarkable success and by their lifestyle. They are warned that others who are less affluent may be envious of them. Therefore, they will need to lock their doors carefully at all times and avoid contact with those who are less fortunate because their resentments may contaminate the pleasant environment of their secure world.
Lifeline is one example of how social work instructors use experiential exercises to teach about oppression and social justice. Experiential exercises can be categorized into three models: experiencing, self-discovering, and learning. Activities that can be categorized as experiencing include those that provide students with opportunities to take on an oppressed/oppressor role or experience life from the perspective of an oppression population. Lifeline is one example in this category. Another example is an activity that provides the opportunity for students without disabilities to go about their daily activities on campus using a wheelchair. Self-discovering experiential exercises include activities that help students to identify their own social locations, their awareness of others' cultures, and their biases or prejudices. For example, students may complete a Social Group Membership Profile to identify various social group memberships (e.g., race, class, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation) and to indicate whether their memberships are agent (dominant group) or target (subordinate group). Then, they may have a series of questions about their memberships and statuses to discuss in small groups. Exercises in the learning category, would include those that provide opportunities to expand students' knowledge of the life experiences of a population, such as watching and discussing a DVD on an oppressed population, reading poetry by members of an oppressed group, discussing a case study, or participating in a field trip to a museum or organization in the community. I take my class to the Black History Museum and Cultural Center, the Virginia Holocaust Museum, and the Neighborhood Resource Center.
Experiential exercises have the potential for student learning at the "heart" level and not just in the "head." For students who learn best by doing, experiential exercises can be profound learning experiences. They can also be fun and creative … a nice change from long lectures for both instructors and students.
The Family Law Clinic
The University of Richmond Law School is operating a multi-service interdisciplinary Family Law Clinic providing direct legal services to low income children and families, supported by case management and counseling services through the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work. The Clinic is located in the urban core of the City of Richmond at the corner of East 7th and Broad. The goal of the Clinic is to address the complex needs of low income families and their children through the provision of direct legal services and the psycho-social services necessary for the family to function in a healthy and productive manner. Areas of representation have included abuse and neglect, divorce, custody, child in need of supervision/services (CHINS), public benefits, housing, and domestic violence.
Read more starts here….
This year (2009-10) the SSW has placed two second year MSW concentration students at the Clinic for their internship experience. One of the students is Morgan Gammon, who chose the Family Law Clinic as her field placement because she had always been interested in the criminal justice field and psychology and in fact both of her minors in undergrad were criminal justice and psychology. She felt that having knowledge in both of these areas would greatly benefit her work as a social worker with the Family Law Clinic. Even as a clinical student, Morgan knew that going into a placement there would be more macro experiences (than a typical clinical placement), but that's exactly what she wanted. She had been exposed to macro practice during her internship last year with Communities in Schools of Virginia and really enjoyed it. So, she wanted to find a placement that would provide her an opportunity to have both micro and macro experiences. Morgan reports that when she saw the Family Law Clinic listed as a possible placement and read that it encompassed social work, psychology and criminal justice, she knew that was the place for her internship.
The second student intern is Billings Collins, who chose the University of Richmond Family Law clinic because of his interest in the role of social workers in the criminal justice field. His first year field placement was with Henrico Community Corrections Program as a probation intern. His job there was primarily conducting individual case management with clients in a traditional one on one setting. The family law clinic allows him not only to continue one on one interactions with clients, but also allows him to understand how the organization works from the macro level. This micro-macro combination allows for students to grow a more diverse social work practice. The social worker placed at the Clinic has the unique ability to work on counseling skills as well as strategic and organizational planning. This experience has allowed Billings to continue to grow as a clinician, while giving him a solid base for organizational management, an aspect of social work that he may be interested in pursuing in the future.
The Family Law clinic is a wonderful learning experience as it combines social work students with law students from the University of Richmond T.C. Williams School of Law. This combination allows students to be exposed to different points of views concerning clients' needs. Additionally, working so closely with students from different disciplines has helped to provide access to new and different information and resources. More importantly, the clinic provides an essential outlet for clients that are in need of legal and social services.
Throughout the Fall semester, these two students have worked in conjunction with Dr. Portia Cole (Field Instructor), Professor Dale Margolin and six University of Richmond law students assigned to the clinic. They have worked on cases involving divorces, child custody, domestic violence, housing, public benefits and abuse and neglect. Both have indicated that they have learned a lot from the law students and look forward to learning even more before their placement ends in May.
Photos below: Morgan Gammon, Dr. Portia L. Cole and Billings Collins
Faculty, Student and Alumni Publications
Brady, S. R., Cramer, E., Dellinger-Wray, M., & Johnston, S. (2009). Resources for Independent Living staff training curriculum: Risk assessment and safety planning. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work and Partnership for People with Disabilities, YWCA of Richmond, and Resources for Independent Living.
Brady, S. R., Cramer, E., Dellinger-Wray, M., & Johnston, S. (2009). Resources for Independent Living staff training curriculum: Risk assessment and safety planning suggestions for facilitators. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work and Partnership for People with Disabilities, YWCA of Richmond, and Resources for Independent Living.
Johnston, S., Carrow, R., Cramer, E., Dellinger-Wray, M., & Guardino, M. (2009). Resources for Independent Living staff training curriculum: Sexual violence intervention. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work and Partnership for People with Disabilities, YWCA of Richmond, and Resources for Independent Living.
McAllister, C.A., Harold, R.D., Ahmedani, B.K., & Cramer, E.P. (2009). Targeted mentoring: An evaluation of a program. Journal of Social Work Education, 45(1), 89-104. Retrieved online December 10, 2009 from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb3060/is_1_45/ai_n31393739/?tag=content;col1
Nguyen, P. V. & Cheung, M. (2009). Parenting styles as perceived by Vietnamese American adolescents. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 26(6), 505-518.
Retrieved online December 5, 2009 from http://www.springerlink.com/content/vu31412244v14r27/fulltext.pdf
Price, S.K. & Handrick, S.L. (2009). A culturally relevant and responsive approach to screening for perinatal depression. Research on Social Work Practice, 19(6), 705-714. Retrieved online December 9, 2009 from
Ryosho, N. (2009) The role of social work in the lives of home care workers. Perspectives on Social Work, (8)1, 17-22. (Fall 2009).
Commencement ~ Fall 2009
On December 12th, five BSW candidates, 27 MSW candidates and two doctoral candidates received their degrees at the Fall commencement held at The Stuart C. Siegel Center on VCU's Monroe Park Campus in Richmond. The Honorable Robert J. Wittman, who represents Virginia's First Congressional District in the U. S. House of Representatives, delivered the commencement address.
Upon receiving their doctoral degrees, Dr. Hsing-Jung Chen and Dr. Geraldine Lewis Meeks were hooded by Dr. Ann Nichols-Casebolt, Interim Dean of the School of Social Work, assisted by their dissertation committee chairs, Dr. Pamela J. Kovacs and Dr. Patrick V. Dattalo.
The following degrees were also conferred at the Fall graduation event:
Bachelor of Social Work
Candidates presented by Interim Dean Ann Nichols-Casebolt
Max Palmer Daniel, Midlothian, VA
Tara Jean Marshall, Ruckersville, VA
Abiose Kali Middleton-Hewitt, Philadelphia, PA
Chandra Denise Preston, Richmond, VA
Eden Nicole Wilson, Chesterfield, VA
Master of Social Work
Candidates presented by Dean F. Douglas Boudinot, Graduate School
Brooke Elizabeth Annessa, Fairfax, VA
Kathryn Elizabeth Boxer, Herndon, VA
Michele Lynn Burtner, Kilmarnock, VA
Jessica M. Crank, Weyers Cave, VA
Cynthia Cypress, Springfield, VA
Michelle Renee Donachy, Richmond, VA
Rachel Gayle Ehrmantraut, Dumfries, VA
Rosalind Frazer, Centreville, VA
Heather Leigh Gary, Arlington, VA
Paul Duncan, Gushurst, Fredericksburg, VA
Jacelynn Alana Hill, San Leandro, CA
Kelly M. Hunt, Charlottesville, VA
Andrea Carson King, Harrisonburg, VA
Kimberly Jo Lovings, Richmond, VA
Darren Lawrence Madison, Woodbridge, VA
Derek Anton Morch, Arlington, VA
Jada E. Overton, Prince George, VA
John Joseph Pace, Burke, VA
Linda A. Perez, Palmyra, VA
Carla Marie Renner, Howells, NE
Neelma Radha Chinsammy Sajjad, Springfield, VA
Laura Katherine Savitsky, Arlington, VA
Karen Yvette Taliaferro, Lanexa, VA
Sandra M. Tan, Richmond, VA
Sara Allison Taylor, Garland, TX
Rashika N. Wallace, Richmond, VA
Jacqueline Withers-Johnson, Williamsburg, VA
Community Reach Out ~ Faculty, Staff and Students Participate in Community Service Projects
The School of Social Work faculty, staff and students have been involved in numerous Community Reach Out projects during the Fall semester, providing much needed assistance in the Richmond and Northern Virginia areas, and beyond.
Activities benefitting the Alzheimers Association, Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, the Better Housing Coalition, United Methodist Family Services, Capital Area Food Bank, Culture of Work Academy, Freedom House, the Richmond Food Bank and U. S. military service personnel, just to name a few, have been undertaken by our faculty, staff and students.
Read more begins here…
The student chapter of Association of Black Social Workers held a back to school drive for Carver Elementary School in September, volunteered for the Alzheimer's Association Annual Memory Walk in October, and in November they co-sponsored a night of self-defense instruction.
The MSWSA participated in Delegate McClellan's 4th Annual Community Harvest festival on October 30th, where they baked, decorated, and donated over 100 cupcakes for the participants. The MSWSA served as volunteer support staff at the YWCA's Annual Charity Fashion Show, where 10 association members volunteered for a total of 24 hours. MSWSA members also participated in a build with Habitat for Humanity on December 5th.
The BSWSA participated in monthly service projects including volunteering for the Boys and Girls Club in September, organizing and participating in an inter-generational party at the Better Housing Coalition in October, running a food and clothing drive in November, and also making and handing out sandwiches to the homeless in November. In December, the BSWSA plans to make holiday treat bags for children at United Methodist Family Services.
NOVA Student Government Association
The NoVA SGA organized a Thanksgiving Food Drive for the Capital Area Food Bank, donating 41 pounds of food to those in their area who need it most. They are now beginning a letter writing campaign to the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. There has been a noted drop in mail for soldiers and this has created a great opportunity for students to raise the spirits of those at war. Cards will be provided for students who would like to write our service men and women a note of encouragement, a holiday wish or simple thank you. If you would like more information on where the letters are going please contact Heather at email@example.com .
For their fall service project, the faculty again collected men's and women's clothing for the Culture of Work Academy and Freedom House. To assist faculty with the drive, the Dean's office staff sorted the donations, picked up clothing from donors, and packed and loaded the donations for the agencies. Hundreds of items were collected, including business attire, accessories, shoes, work clothes, coats, and hygiene products.
With the success of the Spring 2009 clothing drive, it was expanded this semester to include other university departments and donations were received from the School of Nursing, VCU Alumni Association, Financial Aid office, Social and Behavioral Health, Honors College, Pharmacy and Radiology, in addition to Girl Scout Troop 3266.
Eight SSW staff volunteered at the Richmond Food Bank Community Kitchen for the fall service initiative, preparing meals for community organizations. Volunteers included Dan Park, Candice Tam, Pam Duffus, and Ashley Vertuno, who prepared ready-made snacks and meals for the Children of Kids Café and Senior Connections, and Lisa Pond, MeMe Boyd, Kristin Hopkins, and Fay Wade, who compiled healthy snacks into bags for the Children of Kids Café. Close to the end of their shift, Lisa and Fay were scooping meals into trays for homebound Meals on Wheels recipients, while the rest of the staff worked diligently preparing ready-made snack bags for the next day's volunteers. During their four-hour shift, these volunteers put together more than 3,500 meals that went out that day to Meals on Wheels, Children of Kids Café, and Senior Connections. Staff volunteers at the Community Kitchen
Both faculty and staff are currently donating items to fill holiday gift bags for low-income children and youth who, along with their families, will be guests at the Freedom House Christmas Day Dinner event.
ALUMNI Focus
Barbara (Pokrasso) Burke, MSW 1978, is clinical director and social worker at the Family Counseling Center for Recovery in Richmond.
J. Neil DeMasters, MSW 1976, is a consultant at Carilion Clinic in Roanoke, VA.
Cynthia (Gimby) Gadberry, MSW 1976, BSW 1974, is a realtor with RE/MAX Properties. After spending most of her work life in the corporate world, she "retired" and began a new career in real estate. Cynthia has combined her social work roots and new skills to help homeowners in financial distress avoid foreclosure.
Paul McWhinney, BSW 1974, MSW 1979, Director of Family Services, Virginia Department of Social Services, was recently inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society as a distinguished alumnus.
Theresa Puckett, MSW 1979, for the past 18 years has been a school social worker at an elementary school in the Portland, Maine public school system. She has the luxury of having summers off, and uses that time to travel extensively.
Paul Wexler, MSW 1973, is executive director of Central Fairfax Services, Inc., Springfield, Virginia. He has been the CEO for the past 23 years. CFS is a private nonprofit corporation providing day support services to over 200 adults with developmental disabilities.
Jean Donnan, MSW 1984, is an employee assistance program counselor-LCSW at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center.
Lynda (Peacock) Figueroa, MSW 1986, is a Licensed Child Mental Health Supervisor with the Richmond Behavioral health Authority.
William Oldfield, MSW 1983, has been in private practice for 25 years specializing in adults and children with ADHD, learning disorders, and social skills deficits. He also provides consulting and in-service training for schools. In addition, he started a new program for social work services for a community health care center in Buffalo, NY, and was named Director of Behavioral Health.
Beverly Peacock-Barge, MSW 1981, is a school social worker in the Framingham, Massachusetts public school system.
Sheelah Sodhi, MSW 1988, a mental health therapist at Sterling Medical/Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX, provides mental health services for active duty Air Force personnel. She is married and has a seven year old daughter, Kira. Sheelah has rescued five mutts and loves weight training, yoga, and is learning to dance!
Suzanne Boyd, PhD 1997, MSW 1993, is an Associate Professor at UNC Charlotte, and was recently awarded a $16,154 grant for the Evaluation of Alexander Youth Network Intensive In-Home Service.
Felicia (Wilson) Caulk, BSW 1997, is a homemaker, married with three children, and living in the Northern Virginia area.
Heather Comfort, MSW 1999, is a bereavement counselor for Lifepath Hospice in Florida.
James Forte, PhD 1990, MSW 1978, is an Associate Professor with Salisbury University in Maryland. His recent book, Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Models, Metaphors and Maps for Applying Theoretical Perspectives to Practice, continues to receive very favorable reviews.
Misty (Cox) Henderson, MSW 1995, is a transitional housing program counselor with the Women's Resource Center of the NRV. She is married to Dr. Dale Henderson, a professor in the College of Business at Radford University and they have two sons, Luke and Jude.
Dianna Hurtado, MSW 1990, has established a private practice in Plano/North Dallas/Frisco/Allen/McKinney area of Texas targeting extremely "difficult" children and their families. Her clientele are mostly professional families with children who have diagnoses such as Bi-Polar, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, FAS and multiple medical and learning disorders. With the use of research from people like Dr. Bruce Perry, Dr. Ira Chasnoff and many others she is able to employ methodologies that help families change in a short period of time and provide children with a stress free environment in which to grow and thrive. This is Dianna's passion.
Kathleen Shunk, MSW 1998, is a school social worker in the Prince William County public school system in Northern Virginia.
Odessa Becker, MSW 2007, is an adoptive home recruiter for the City of Alexandria, VA.
Barbara Blankenbaker, MSW 2004, is a licensed mental health professional, Family Solutions. Barbara has been an LCSW since December 2007. She works with at-risk children/adolescents and their families and loves her job. She recently attended a conference in Santa Fe, NM, and is currently working on a book about mental health and well being.
Lorener Brayboy, MSW 2008, is a clinical social worker for the United States Public Health Service in Texas. She will never forget the caring peers and staff during her years at VCU (NOVA campus). She says it is an honor and pleasure to serve as a uniformed services social worker.
Aileen (Callahan) Burrell, MSW 2000, is a social worker with the Department of Veteran Affairs. Since graduating from VCU, Aileen has worked in several fields of social work, almost all in the mental health arena. She is currently working in a residential program for combat veterans with PTSD in Denver, CO. She is married with one daughter and another 'on the way'.
John G. Cagle, PhD 2008, MSW 1998, is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Institute on Aging at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Lila Curtis, BSW 2008, is employed by Wal-Mart and is currently enrolled at Walden University, working on her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling.
LaTasha Davis, BSW 2006, MSW 2008, is a school social worker for Henrico County Public Schools.
Gerhild Dickerman, MSW 2003, left the Washington area in May 2007 and moved to beautiful Asheville, NC, where he opened a private practice in January 2008.
Kim Flournoy, BSW 2004, MSW 2008, is a self-employed consultant in Richmond.
Maggie Fox-Kirsch, MSW 2008, is a children's mental health therapist for Fairfax County.
Susan Franke, MSW 2002, is lead independent living social worker for Greenspring – a continuing care retirement community in Springfield, VA. Her first grandchild, Courtney, was born in February 2009 and Susan and her husband Phil are enjoying every minute of being grandparents !
Michael Gasper, MSW 2003, is the executive director of Extra Special Parents, Inc. He co-founded a treatment foster care agency that has grown to three offices serving Virginia and remains an adjunct faculty at Richard Bland College in their Sociology Department. Michael and his wife, Jill (H&S – Psychology – PhD 2009), welcomed their first child, Cameron Michael, on July 24th. They still live in the Richmond area and are enjoying their new family.
Nadine Graham, BSW 2008, is a compliance review specialist for Intercept Youth Services in Richmond.
Sloan (Hawley) Lindsey, MSW 2002, is a licensed assisted living administrator for Westminster Canterbury Richmond. She and her husband, Mark, live in Richmond and have a 3-year-old daughter named Vaiden. They are expecting their second child in late January 2010.
Kristin (Dowman) Lints, MSW 2006, is a clinical liaison at Poplar Springs Hospital in Petersburg, VA.
Margaret (Lefbom) Mellnik, MSW 2005, is a family advocate for Reston Interfaith in Northern Virginia.
Hope (Burnette) Melton, MSW 2008, is care coordinator and community liaison for Senior Solutions of Richmond.
Sue Murdock, Ph.D. 2006, is a program evaluator for the VCU Partnership for People with Disabilities.
Heather (Kinkade) Porter, MSW 2000, is a licensed clinical social worker for the Family Advocacy Program, US Army, Fort Eustis, VA.
Suzanne Pritzker, MSW 2003, recently completed her doctorate at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis. and has joined the Graduate College of Social Work faculty at the University of Houston. Article, page 6.
Edward Robinson, MSW 2003, is a program director for A Gathering of the Ways in Richmond, VA.
Allison Ryals, BSW 2003, MSW 2005, is a social work supervisor for Richmond Department of Social Services Second Responders.
Hannah Kate Singleton, MSW 2004, is a trauma social worker, addictions counselor, adjunct lecturer, and health literacy consultant for Inova Health Systems in Northern Virginia. Kate received her LCSW this summer and is very excited about getting back into teaching at a Maryland honors college, UMBC-Shady Grove, this fall. She currently has an article in the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing on the importance of integrating approaches to health literacy, linguistic appropriateness and cultural competence.
Grace Stapleton, MSW 2004. After graduation, Grace worked as a group therapist for people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. She is now a stay-at-home mother of three little ones in Chesterfield, VA.
Melissa Taylor, MSW 1994, Ph.D. 2002, is an associate professor and undergraduate director at UNC Greensboro. Melissa continues to work and write in the areas of severe mental illness and substance abuse, and completed a state-wide study of persons with mental illness and the jails of NC. She is active in departmental administration and in the mental health community in Greensboro, NC.
Angela (Merritt) Verdery, MSW 2001, is deputy director of Safe Harbor in Richmond, VA.
Bradley Wentz, MSW 2007, is a child protective services supervisor for the City of Charlottesville. He is the 2009 recipient of the John L. Snook Child Advocate Award (Charlottesville Area Service Award), a growing Family Support Program that provides outreach by placing Department of Social Services social workers in city elementary schools.
December 9, 2009
by Jacqueline Corcoran
In terms of teen sexual risk behavior, the U.S. continues to have one of the highest teen pregnancy, birth, and abortion rates in the developed world. According to the 2007 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey, almost half of all high school teens have had sexual intercourse at least once. Among sexually active teens, 40% did not use birth control at last intercourse. Further, an estimated 9.1 million youth and young adults ages 15-24 are newly infected with a sexually transmitted disease in a one year period.
The Alexandria Campaign for the Prevention of Teen Pregnancy (ACPAP) is part of the Alexandria Office on Women and its mission is to reduce adolescent pregnancy in the city of Alexandria. One of the programs of ACPAP is the teen text message line, which is run by Becky Griesse, the Coordinator for ACPAP. In this program, teens text message their concerns about love, sex, and relationships and Becky answers their questions within a 24-hour period. Text messaging is a particularly appealing format for teenagers. According to a Washington Post article on text messaging and teens, youth from 13 to 17 are the most avid users of the medium. According to data cited by the Nielson Company, teens do more text messaging (average 2,272 texts per month) than they make cell phone calls (only 203).
Read more begins here….
In the Spring of 2007 I was awarded a Community Service Associate grant to work with the Alexandria Office on Women on various projects, including a qualitative analysis of the type of teen text messages the teen text line program received. Inspired by that work, I posed last Spring to the Office on Women that we consider putting the teen text message questions and answers into a book to sell for fundraising. The Alexandria Office on Women was agreeable since the budget for the teen text message line had been reduced . Becky Griesse and I put together a proposal, organizing the book, TEEN TEXT SEX, around chapters on relationships, sexual decision-making, sexual activity, birth control and preventing pregnancy, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases. Main selling points are that TEEN TEXT SEX would discuss the actual concerns of real teens in the language they use.
After sending it to about 30 literary agents, we eventually heard that the KT Literacy Agency wanted to represent TEEN TEXT SEX. We have since revised our proposal and developed two sample chapters so that our agent can distribute it to editors, who will hopefully be interested in buying it. Proceeds from any sales will go to the Alexandria Office on Women for the teen text line program.

subset: commoncrawl


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The third and final installment of our 2013 Ernie Ball "Save Your Strings" Competition was the search for one great artist in our country category to win a year's supply of strings and accessories. We've previously introduced you to our pop winner, Biscuits & Gravy, and our rock winner, The Jellybricks. They will now be joined in consideration for the grand prize – an endorsement deal with Ernie Ball and a Music Man guitar for each player in the band – by our country winner, Gin House.
Gin House has a winner with their great country porch stomper "Roots," a perfect title for this band, whose other songs reveal a passion for all kinds of Americana beyond country – blues, folk, and even classic pop. The main driver behind Gin House is Brandon Clark, who sings with a voice like tarnished gold – built for radio, but with a deep character, and sounded with conviction. Check out the appropriately slow-burning stunner "The Fire Is Alive" for evidence. Clark founded the band in 2011 with Paul Lynch, and the following year released their self-titled 5-song EP, which features "Roots." In support of the release, Clark hit the road with Austin Renfroe, hitting colleges from the Northeast to the upper Midwest. Sad to say we missed them last time around, but we won't that mistake again.
All of the songs from the EP are currently posted on their OurStage page – highly recommended listening. Stay tuned for the selection of the Ernie Ball "Save Your Strings" Grand Prize winner.
More like this:
Biscuits & Gravy Win The Pop Edition Of Ernie Ball's "Save Your Strings" Competition
The Jellybricks Win A Year Of Free Strings From Ernie Ball
Dawes Release New Single, "From A Window Seat," New Album Trailer


text:
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Add to Cart and enter your Postal Code to determine the shipping charges and estimated delivery date.
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I was fortunate enough to be invited to attend the Google Fiber Launch Party on July 26, 2012. I have to admit that I wasn't expecting much. Since the initial announcement that Google would be turning Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri into the first "gigabit cities," there have been grand announcements and press conferences followed by long periods of silence. New rollout dates were announced, only to be delayed. I was wrong about the event. It was the closest thing that Kansas City will ever have to a Silicon Valley launch. It was cool!
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By KAYLA STRAYER 6 News Reporter
HARRIMAN (WATE) - A Roane County teenager says he's lucky to be alive after falling through the ice at a lake near his house.
Leaf Clark was celebrating his 14th birthday with his friends Saturday afternoon when they decided to walk on ice on the Little Emory River, which is part of Watts Bar Lake. Two of his friends fell in first.
"I guess they stepped on an air bubble in the water, and they were near a buoy where the ice wasn't all the way around it," Clark said.
He tried to save them.
"They went to the buoy and right before I was going to grab one of their hands, I fell in with them. My cousin tried to grab my hand. I was swimming toward him. The ice just kept breaking and breaking," Clark said.
That's when his cousin ran to get help.
"All three of us were on a buoy. We were just holding for dear life and praying," Clark said.
They stayed in 35 degree water, clinging to the buoy, for nearly an hour and a half.
"My friend kept screaming. He was wasting his heat and energy. And he was getting cold," Clark said.
Clark's pastor, Neil Crass, arrived on the scene with his boat.
"If you could imagine your child just 75, 50 yards away from you, and watching them cling to life to this buoy was really heart wrenching," Crass said.
Crass and his son were able to break through the ice and rescue the boys.
"When we first got to them, they had no response. They just had this blank look in their eyes of just great fear," Crass said.
The boys were immediately flown to UT Medical Center. They were discharged on Sunday.
"I believe God was with us and I can feel him in my heart. I'm going to get baptized pretty soon. I feel saved," Clark said, adding he really appreciates the prayers and everyone who helped bring them to safety.
He says he will stay away from ice from now on. Other than a little numbness, Clark says they are all feeling much better today and should be back in school tomorrow.
1306 N. Broadway NE Knoxville, Tennessee 37917
Telephone: 865.637.NEWS(6397)
Fax: 865.525.4091
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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A 3.2-magnitude earthquake hit Malibu late Thursday. The temblor hit at 10:57 p.m. about 3 miles south of Malibu, according to the Southern California Earthquake Data Center. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
According to the USGS, the epicenter was six miles from Malibu Beach, nine miles from Agoura Hills, 10 miles from Agoura.
Residents in Latigo Canyon, Corral Canyon, the Malibu Colony and Monte Nido told The Malibu Times on Facebook they felt the strong, rolling shake. Readers as far as Topanga and Santa Monica and Palms said the felt the quake too.
This is the third earthquake to shake the area in recent days. Last Sunday, a 2.8-magnitude quake jolted Marina Del Rey and last Friday, another 3.2-magnitude quake hit nearby at LAX.
FOX 13 / WTVT-TV3213 West Kennedy Blvd.Tampa, Florida 33609Main: (813) 876-1313Newsroom: (813) 870-9630Fax: (813) 871-3135


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Look! Guess Who Lives Here...
This mini house tour may surprise you--if only because we were hoping that this professional athlete's home would have some quirky choices (much like his string of high profile relationships. But we digress.) Take a look at this living room, and see if you can guess who lives here...the answer and more photos are after the jump!
"I've always liked contemporary art," say the owner. The painting firmly established this bedroom's color palette of beige, creams, and touches of pink.
What we liked about this room: the arrangement of family photos. Plus, the bar stools and industrial light fixtures are cool. The booth on the other hand...
OK, if you still had no clue, this should be a dead giveaway. Yellow Tour de France jerseys decorate the game room done up in taupe and pink.
If you guessed Lance Armstrong even before you saw the last photo, you're way smarter than us! Check out his entire Austin, Texas estate at Architectural Digest.
[ Photos by Robert Reck from Architectural Digest ]
42 Comments
I for one really like the booth. It looks really comfy, and balances the space well.
My Mom would love it.
I thought he'd be a little edgeir....... its like a land-o-beige
I think it would have been better if this was Denis Rodman's pad... :)
I couldn't guess the owner until the last photo because the rest of the house just looks like a rich person handed his wallet to a decorator and said, "Here, go buy me one of those hotel-suite-looks like they have in the magazines."
I can tell a lot of thought and money went into this, but not much personality.
Very boring. I do, however, like his choice of light fixtures in the kitchen and bedroom.
It doesn't even look like anyone lives there- it looks like pictures from a catalogue.
Love the booth - call it a "banquette." Great use of space and who wouldn't rather be seated at a banquette than a table at a restaurant?
i'm so glad he has and uses a genuine fireplace and hasn't gutted it and placed his widescreen tv into the space. instead, he has the big tv to the left of the fireplace so it's not the center piece of the room. thank god!
I always wish that magazine photos looked as though someone actually lived in the homes featured...
I realize that hanging TVs over the fireplace has become the epitome of bad taste. But I still don't get how putting it next to the fireplace in some nook where you can't actually see it is an improvement.
And I agree with tjsmf. Does Armstrong actually live in this place or does he just own it?
Second on the "land-o'-beige."
Somewhere between the attempted evocation of an old-time men's club and an upscale but unadventurous hotel suite.
Wouldn't it have been cool to add more discreet jersey-yellow accent touches as a subtle reflection of his accomplishments?
Unless of course he doesn't actually like the color...
Or maybe more reds...something to relieve the unrelenting beigity.
The "string of high profile relationships" gave it away.
Isn't this his house that uses more water than most golf courses?
Haha, I only guessed right because of your image alt tags. Yay geekness. :P
I think it looks nice. It's probably land-o-beige to provide a more relaxing atmosphere for the poor guy.
Ha, Pete! I thought it was Dennis Rodman's place at first too. I expected a shot of him in the kitchen, donning a wedding dress, with a plate of fresh-baked cookies. :)
it looks like a generic extreme makeover home edition interior
OMG Pete! Denis was the first person I thought of as well.
Ding! I win! I thought Lance Armstrong immediately when you paired pro athelte with string of relationships.
I must say I was rather surprised at how he lived when I saw this a month ago in AD mag. It seemed rather formal and not how I see him living.
Who every said riding a bike does not pay off was really mistaken for sure!
One needs to see all the pictures in AD to see just how fancy he really lives---these few only seem to show part of it.
Does anyone else think Architectural Digest is past its prime? Everything is so staged, typical, and boring in that magazine now.
well, like many others said - the living room has zero personality. could be a particularly roomy hotel room, actually. very boring. lots of money, no inspiration.
Has Architectural Digest ever been anything but staged, typical, and boring?
Has it ever been architectural, for that matter?
I have a subscription to AD that is expiring soon and no plans to renew. It makes me feel old when I look at it, lol.
"Land o' beige" sums this up very well; so uninteresting and unoriginal. Those brown tones do make a nice backdrop for the peroxided hair and blue eyes of all of Lance's cookie-cutter women, however.
really like the kitchen. but yah a little generic.
hell, i'd take it.
i live in austin and i have been told by a few people that his house has one of the highest monthly water consumption bills in austin. not so eco-friendly i guess.
i don't know how or why i guessed lance armstrong. but i did. spooky.
I guessed Kobe Bryant, I figured his wife went out and got some pricey designer to make everything look like someone really really rich and stylish lived there.
I actually like the kitchen but everything else is boring.
I guessed Derek Jeter for high profile relationships...Mariah Carey, Miss Universe, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Vanessa Minnillo...oh well I knew it wasn't him as soon as I saw the garden out back...none of that in a NYC penthouse!
Booooorrrrring. It looks like a Dave and Buster's!
I guessed Tom Brady but I guess 2 does not a string make. he kind of seems like he would have an all brown place, though, no? It's not to my aesthetic, but whatever works for the person who lives there...
Looks like the interiors of those McMansions in Orange County. Feels very suburban, except I'm sure the furniture is much more expensive. The kitchen, however, is very nice with those frames on the upper ledge. Also, the ceiling in that last photo is impressive as well.
clean conservative decor for a conservative republican guy from texas. who'd of guessed? done by a very well paid decorator no less.
as for his "high profile relationships" after surviving cancer, a failed marriage, and working his ass off for 15 years, he chose a period of relative hedonism. again, there's a surprise here?
LOL. I thought Dennis Rodman too.
This could not be more cold and boring. I can't even imagine a real person inhabiting these rooms.
it doesn't look as if ANYONE lives there...
This looks like a Marriott that I stayed in recently.
yeah, i was thinking Dennis Rodman as well! *That* would have been surprising.
The bedroom is too hotel room-ish for me.
does he or anyone even live there? too damn clean!
I guess he sure loves hotel life! Good for him
I <3 Lance
This looks like the corporate office I work at (which is boring).


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Seasons 52 - Indianapolis
- Address:
8650 Keystone Crossing
Indianapolis, IN 46240Neighborhood:
Castleton / Keystone Crossings
- Cuisine:
Contemporary AmericanPrice: $31 to $50
Seasons 52 - Indianapolis
- Dining Style: Casual Elegant
- Website: http://www.seasons52.com/
- Phone: 3178465252x
- Hours of Operation:
Lunch Daily: 11:00am - 4:00pm; Dinner: Monday - Friday: 4:00pm - 10:00pm, Saturday: 4:00pm - 11:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm - 9:00pm
- Payment Options: AMEX,Carte Blanche,Diners Club,Discover,MasterCard,Visa
- Cuisine: Contemporary American
- Executive Chef: Bill Erath
- Dress Code: Business Casual
- Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
- Additional Details: Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Chef's Table, Entertainment, Fireplace, Full Bar, Gluten-free Menu, Late Night, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine, Wine Bar
- Entertainment: We feature entertainment nightly at our piano bar.
A word from Seasons 52 - Indianapolis
Seasons 52 is a casually sophisticated fresh grill and wine bar that invites you to discover the sensational flavors of our seasonally inspired menu. At Seasons 52, you'll enjoy a warm, welcoming ambiance with rich mahogany accents, custom built wine cellars, and lush greenery that create an air of casual sophistication. With an award-winning international wine list of over 100 wines, with 52 or more available by the glass, we will find the perfect match to complement your menu selection.Continued
Our restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, with extended hours on the weekend. We also feature live entertainment at our piano bar nightly.
If you are searching for a place to host your event, look no further. Seasons 52 is the perfect setting for your private or semi-private event. We also feature a Chef's table for smaller groups or more intimate settings. Together we will create the event of the season!
For more information, visit our website at www.Seasons52.com.
Our restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, with extended hours on the weekend. We also feature live entertainment at our piano bar nightly.
If you are searching for a place to host your event, look no further. Seasons 52 is the perfect setting for your private or semi-private event. We also feature a Chef's table for smaller groups or more intimate settings. Together we will create the event of the season!
For more information, visit our website at www.Seasons52.com.
Foodspotting photosSee all photos
Awards voted by OpenTable diners
- Diners' Choice WinnerGreat for Lunch
- Diners' Choice WinnerContemporary American
- Diners' Choice WinnerMost Booked
Seasons 52 - Indianapolis - Best Restaurants in Castleton / Keystone Crossings ›
Seasons 52 - Indianapolis reviews from OpenTable diners
383 reviews since May 26, 2014
- Food4.6Service4.5
- Ambiance4.4Noise LevelModerate
special occasion (228)fit for foodies (227)romantic (146)notable wine list (146)great for lunch (136)good for groups (128)neighborhood gem (83)vibrant bar scene (64)hot spot (54)great for brunch (41)late-night find (27)kid-friendly (21)great for outdoor dining (6)scenic view (5)Show More
- Special Occasion PlaceGrammaGGDined on 9/21/2014Went to Seasons 52 on a Sunday afternoon for a friend's birthday. None of us had been there before and what a treat it turned out to be! The menu is diverse and creative. We ordered quail [exquisite!], sea scallops [generous size and portions] and bbq chicken entre-size salad. Cleaned up our plates and then had their desert indulgences -- wonderful. This is not a place we would go to every week, but certainly for any and all special occasions. Cost is higher than "everyday" restaurants, yet, not as expensive as I thought it might be AND, worth every penny. Try Seasons 52, you're sure to like it.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Wonderful RestaurantProfessorJTDined on 9/20/2014An amazing restaurant with a truly great staff and atmosphere! It was my first visit and the staff was very friendly and helpful from the time I went into until I left and I truly appreciated that. I hope to visit again soon!Special Features:
- Great - Again!BillDined on 9/20/2014The service and food is always great. We had a last minute change from 2 persons to 4 and there was absolutely no problem. We arrived a few minutes early for our reservation and were still seated immediately. Even though the noise level was at a steady buzz, my 15 year old grandson noted we were still able to have a conversation at a normal level and not actually hear what was being said at the tables around us. He was impressed.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great evening!UberyummyDined on 9/19/2014Dinner was great. I highly recommend the scallops! The flat-bread was delicious as well! We were up there for north side nights and with a couple of glasses of wine each, the 2 of us dined for under $100 total!Special Features:
- Friday NightOpenTable Diner Since 2005VIPDined on 9/19/2014The food was very good and we like the happy our menu in the bar. Service was a little slow but that was due to the size of the crowd. We really enjoyed the live piano and singer that started at 6:30pm.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great ServiceOpenTable Diner Since 2011Dined on 9/19/2014The food and ambience is always the best at Seasons 52! Our server Chad C. was wonderful! I have had some just OK severs at this restaurant but Chad was just great. He was patient, helpful, and kind!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great food and wineddrchick02Dined on 9/17/2014The best thing about Seasons 52 - everything on the menu is under 475 calories! The food is amazing and the service is awesome! Thanks for a great evening!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Mixed reviewmlongDined on 9/17/2014It was very noisy and the menus are huge with small print. But the food was wonderful-especially the flatbreads!Special Features:
- very good, very high noise leveljojoDined on 9/17/2014Group of 8 seated behind the kitchen. It was a business meeting. Could not hear the discussion due to staff talking about orders and the overall kitchen prep. When I made the reservation I told them it was an HOA meeting. The food was good not great. Service was good.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great food, great evening....RIndyDined on 9/16/2014Went there to celebrate a new job and the food and service were excellent as always.Special Features:
- Good experienceHarryandIzzysis1Dined on 9/16/2014Lunch was tasty, well served, beautifully presented.Special Features:
- Season's 52indyDined on 9/14/2014A great spot for dinner, taking out of town guests, special celebrations etc. Great ambiance, very good service, healthy dishes, vegetarian/vegan options, all entrees are 475 calories. the menu changes regularly and food is well prepared.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Had a bad start.DanGVIPDined on 9/13/2014This was our 3rd dinner at Season's 52 over the last couple of years. We had a gift card to use so that took us back. As in the past the food quality was excellent and there was enough variety to satisfy all 4 of us. We had tried to find a quitter location but on a Saturday night that wasn't to be had. I think they thought the back room would be better in that regard, except that it's right next to the bar without any kind of sound-control. So we had to cope with the loud and off-pitch singer in the lounge plus two large parties of about 10 people each. So much for conversation. The biggest disappointment was that after we were seated that was it for a very long time. No water, no nothing. Finally a harried server noticed. Not good.
- Good overall experienceSTIndianaDined on 9/13/2014Food was very good. Ambiance was too though it felt a little bit crowded. Our server, Brittany, was awesome! There are plenty of healthy choices.Special Features:
- No boothcogjcDined on 9/13/2014Food and service good. Had requested a booth in advance but booth was given away to someone who had not requested a booth. Otherwise a good evening.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- The Changing menukarenDined on 9/13/2014Seasons 5 has a great menu which they change with the seasons so you never get bored. Great place to go woth a group of friends. We all enjoyed.Special Features:
- Great food, decent serviceReservation4Dined on 9/12/2014Bad start as we waited 40 minutes after our reservation time. Lots of parties with reservations were waiting an hour past their time. Hostess was apologetic, and free drinks when we were seated. Food was great and worth the wait. Server was nice, but not around much- I will write it off to trying to appease the other tables with drinks for the wait. Would go back.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Food made it all worth it!AlexDined on 9/12/2014We had 7:30pm reservations for 2. Upon arrival we were told that they were running about 10 minutes behind. 30 minutes later and after asking twice we were finally taken to our table. We were advised that the manager was aware of our wait and would be coming to see us. The manager never made it to our table. Despite the initial delays and lack of manager's attention, we had a great server and a wonderful meal. Scallops were recommended and were perfect. The Flatbread was delicious and the wine list was great. Multiple times we caught ourselves saying how we couldn't believe the food was this good and under 475 calories per dish. We do plan on returning and hope we don't have any issues. Definitely recommend reservations.Special Features:
- BrandonBrandon10450Dined on 9/12/2014The good and service were good. The ran 40 minutes late. We had a 7:30p reservation and didn't get seated until 8:10p.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Thank you Josh!WeddedBlissDined on 9/11/2014Our server Josh, and his shadow, made our evening very enjoyable. We were celebrating my wife's birthday and the service, the food, and everything, was absolutely perfect. A truly enjoyable evening. Yes, we will be back!Special Features:
- GreatOpenTable Diner Since 2011Dined on 9/11/2014Our meal was excellent and great attention from staff for my parent's anniversary!Special Features:
- Seasons 52 never disappoints!donworVIPDined on 9/10/2014My friends and I had another excellent meal at Seasons 52. We appreciated the hostess honoring my Open Table request for a quiet table. Our server was attentive, friendly, and didn't rush us to order as we had our drinks. Our server was happy to allow me to substitute a different veggie with my entree. Excellent,well prepared food, and attentive but unobtrusive service. We lingered over their yummy mini-desserts and coffee, and really enjoyed our evening!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Great Food and Service every timeJodeeDined on 9/10/2014We dine at Seasons 52 with some frequency and are never disappointed. The food, service and ambiance are top flight and our guests, who are visiting for the first time, are invariably smitten by the experience.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- so -so foodblansetteVIPDined on 9/6/2014food was so -so nothing special - chicken kabobs were not completely cook - but server did not hestitate to remove from bill and offer other items for free.Special Features:
- Anniversary dinnerAnniversaryDined on 9/6/2014Great service. From the head chef to the wait staff they knew it was our big day. Champagne toast and more. Food very good.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Wonderful spot for an anniversaryrzeatsDined on 9/6/2014My wife and I were able to have an excellent 27th Anniversary dinner at a very reasonable price. Other than a brief wait, we were seated and soon waited upon. I am going gluten free and they had ample choices for me and were willing to accommodate this in terms of adjusting special menu items.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Incredible food and service!lily06Dined on 9/6/2014This is one of my favorite restaurants, the food is fabulous, the service is excellent. I so appreciate the seasonal menu, as well as knowing that all dishes are under 500 calories, but you'd never know that by the taste. And the desserts are perfect, the hardest part is narrowing down the choice to one!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- seasonal menu & romanticIndyfoodieDined on 9/5/2014Love having flavors of the season apples, squash, turkey, & excellent wine pairings and mini indulgences. Everything is healthy and filling. We had a couple appetizers, entrees, drinks, wine, and dessert for under $100 an well worth it. Live pianist in Bar area candle light makes for great date night atmosphere.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Good times!52fanDined on 9/5/2014My husband and I love Seasons 52. This is the second year in a row we have celebrated our wedding anniversary here. It's becoming a tradition. The food and service are always awesome! The live music is great as well!Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- great food but a little priceysmanchenoDined on 9/5/2014We asked for a table in the bar so we could hear the singer but it was way to loud as it was hard to carry on a conversation. Previously we had a table in the main dining room and really couldn't hear the singer so thought this would be better. My husband was disappointed that there wasn't a larger selection. He is a steak kind a guy and had the filet last visit so he wanted to try something new. He had lamb but would of preferred a rib eye or some other cut of beef. I selected the quail but was disappointed that I couldn't find the risotto that it was supposed to be stuffed with...but a lot a spinach. I said something to my waiter and someone ended up bringing me out a bowl full of risotto...Wow...it was terrific.Special Features:
- Table for 10SuzyVIPDined on 9/4/2014Big group, but great service! Very accommodating to us.Special Features:
- WonderfulPleasedDined on 9/4/2014We were celebrating our anniversary and it was our first time at Seasons 52. My husband and I both loved it. The portion sizes are perfect and the ambiance was really nice (and romantic). The only negative for me was that the chef must love lemon because it seemed to come with every entree (exaggerating). I am not a fan of lemon with savory food but that's just my preference. They were very willing to accommodate my tastes though.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Awesomefrequentdiner2Dined on 9/2/2014Just an Awesome experience. Fall menu rocked! Service was top notch. Staff was very attentive, friendly, and professional. This was my first time at the restaurant with clients and it met my expectations for being an upscale, fine dining, cool place. My customers commented how well they liked the food and atmosphere...that is all I wanted to hear!!! Thank you again S52Special Features:
- too good to be so healthyEGFJVIPDined on 8/31/2014We come to Seasons 52 for the food and are always reminded that 475 calories never tasted so good. Roasted olive appetizer was out of this world. Huge trout portion perfectly prepared; Cedar plank salmon perfection and flat breads mmmmm. Mini indulgence desserts were delightful...Lemon curd/blueberries with lots of blueberries. Can't go wrong here!Special Features:
- Pretty loud in thereLUVFISHDined on 8/30/2014Our table of 7 found it hard to talk because the music in the bar area was soooooo loud! I left feeling still hungry. Food is good, just not worth the exorbitant price.Special Features:
- ace2u2Dined on 8/30/2014My favorite restaurant in Indianapolis. . . dined here many times. Love the atmosphere - gorgeous fire pit at entrance, perfect lighting, live piano music in the bar on Saturday night. Service is fabulous. The restaurant is classy, yet not pretentious. Delicious, fresh, perfectly prepared food. My friend had the cedar plank roasted salmon; I enjoyed a spring greens salad and artichoke pesto flatbread (I'm vegetarian). We take my in-laws here whenever they are in town. My father-in-law is *very* picky about restaurants, so that's saying a lot, trust me. I love how the menu changes by season to allow for fresh, in-season produce.Special Features:
- AarontooDined on 8/29/2014Great dining experience for lunch. Only issue for us was we had a baby in a stroller and were "isolated" in a special dining area. It was nice to have it quiet, but weird being the only party in a 15-20 table area.Special Features:I would recommend this to a friend.
- Peaceful time of daylaggVIPDined on 8/27/2014We arrived about 3:45 p.m. so had no trouble getting a booth in the bar, and no trouble with the usual noise. It was too cold, as usual. On to the positives: our food was tasty and healthful, as always, and the service was also good even though it seemed that the new shift of workers was arriving just as we settled in. The duck lettuce wraps were excellent, as was the artichoke flatbread.Special Features:
- always goodArnieVIPDined on 8/27/2014The food and service at Seasons 52 are always consistent. I enjoy the opportunity to eat healthy. The bar in the evenings is my favorite with the piano players.Special Features:
- A Perpetual FavoriteCepageVIPDined on 8/26/2014This is truly one of my favorite restaurants in the city. The food is consistently fresh and well-prepared. While keeping some favorite items on the menu, seasonal items are always added for diversity. The service is responsive and not intruding. I never feel hurried through my meal, and I love the small desserts offered afterwards, as well as the espresso option. The espresso is very good, lots of creme with a medium bitterness, just the way I love it! I recommend the field greens salad and the cedar roasted salmon. The shrimp and crab-stuffed stuffed mushrooms were a disappointment, no the same panache as other items I have previously enjoyed there. The flatbread pizza appetizers never disappoint.Special Features: