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Sep 01 2009
Bringing in the Horses
"Throw on your boots and go get the horses in," Marlboro Man told our six-year-old an hour or so ago.
Marlboro Man needs his horse to go gather some bulls this morning. And you can't just bring in one of the horses; horses don't work that way. They want to be close to their equine brothers, and trying to break one of them off of the herd is an exercise in futility.
Within minutes our boy is on the Gator, trying to bring our five ranch horses across the creek and to the barn.
The horses are smart. They crossed the creek, but went straight up the pond dam, which is way too steep and rocky for the Gator. So my boy had to hop off and chase them on foot.
It would help if we actually had a Border Collie that herded from the back instead of the front.
This is what happens when a Border Collie spends the first year of her life tied up in a back yard. All the instinct mutates and morphs into something it's not supposed to be.
But we're working on her.
The horses really don't appreciate her one bit.
By the way, if you think a Border Collie can be distracted or lured away from these situations with the typical canine enticements like bacon, ham hocks, or leftover pork sausage patties from breakfast, well…then you've never owned a Border Collie. Work is their only motivation, and if they think they're contributing to the operation by herding some horses or cattle, that's better to them than any piece of greasy bacon.
Even if they're not really helping all that much.
Even if they're not really helping at all.
Even if they're…
Oh, poor Lady. She'll get better. We're working on her.
Eventually, they did make progress forward, thanks to that curious short fellow in the rear.
And my boy ran over and jumped back on the Gator so he could finish pushing them toward the barn.
Then they kicked a few times and took off in the other direction, over even rockier ground than before.
Charlie tried to stop them, but his demands went unacknowledged.
You'd think he'd be used to it by now.
One thing my boy knows is this: bringing in the horses requires patience, grit, and patience.
It's okay. I have a plateful of bacon that'll make him feel all better.
It'll make me feel pretty good, too.
401 Comments
Amy On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:20 pm
Can my six year old boy come to the ranch for some training? He'd be all about the Gator. He attempts to steer through our neighborhood and always tells me to stop holding on to the steering wheel! I think the neighbors would like to keep their mailboxes.
Angel On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:27 pm
Wow! Can I send my kids to you for a summer? What a fabulous work ethic your 6 year has. I need to figure out how to do that in the city.
Nancy On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:34 pm
Absolutely adorable a boy and his dogs and horses story! And yes, that last picture is priceless.
The Nanner On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:34 pm
The last photo is my favorite …. I love that face….absolutely, wonderfully perfect.
aunt Rhody On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:37 pm
I LOVE this post! Kids, horses, a gator and a border collie. Who could ask for anything more? (Ethel Merman?)
Abbie D On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:37 pm
I wonder if your kids know how cool it is that they have a Gator? And even cooler that they have parents that let them DRIVE it!!!
I wish I had a few horses so I could go buy a Gator. And drive it around in effort to "herd the horses". But really…I'd just be out havin' me some fun!!!
A city girl w/ a Mom who would never have let me drive a Gator. Probably wouldn't even have allowed me to RIDE in the Gator had we owned one. I'm the youngest of four. The "baby". I didn't get to do squat. "You're too little" she would say. If I had a dime for every time I've heard "you're too little…", I could probably buy…well…a tire or two for the Gator. But that would be silly, because I do not own a Gator.
Shannon On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:40 pm
What a sweetheart, love the look on his face. Most, and I mean most children wont lift a finger but your little bugger kept trying. You and MM should be proud!
Dorothy Finkelstein On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:40 pm
He couldn't look any more like Marlboro Man than if MM spit him out!! He is darling and that expression is priceless!
Brandilyn On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:41 pm
is he really only 6? he's adorable! what a great little guy to have around!!
Bill from Wasilla On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:47 pm
I was sure hoping to see a picture of your boy, riding a 'gator, chasing horses! In my whole life, I had never even imagined such a thing. I would think, though, that a 'gator is a pretty slow and inefficient critter from which to herd horses on – unless they should happen to stampede into a swamp. There, the gator would be a natural.
Andrea H On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:47 pm
A jacket? really? Ugh. So jealous. I know- completely off topic, but it's all I could focus on there toward the end.
Married to an Aussie in OK On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:47 pm
My son would be about the same way… give it a game go, and then get bacon. I think any 6-year-old would do that if he got to drive a Gator…
Sasha On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:48 pm
What a great life for a boy. I've got an 81/2 year old that would just do about anything to come live on a ranch like yours… Somedays I'd about do anything to send him there too… Ha!
Cyndi On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:49 pm
What a trooper! And to think my little Sam only that those kind of adventures with his Hot Wheels or in his Tonkas in the sand box… And I felt like I was giving HIM down-to-earth child-rearing because his toys weren't remote-controlled!
Christine On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:50 pm
I'm with Andrea – I bought the CUTEST jacket for my girls and it's 100+ outside. I can't wait for cooler weather but it ain't gonna happen any time soon!
talea On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:52 pm
Six, really? I think my nephews had to be 8 or so before they were allowed to drive the gator without parents. And they had to wear helmets. Of course, that was back before John Deere had the gators with the roofs and the roll bars.
I do remember going to the creek to gather boulders for my sis's new garden and she told me I could drive the gator, while she drove the tractor with the loader blade (some of those boulders were HUGGEEEE. The gator was for the smaller rocks). I said I was really rusty on driving a stick, so I happily allowed the 8-year-old to drive. I also remember I felt perfectly comfortable with his driving up and down hills and through a rocky creek bed. That amazed me, since I'm a bit of a control freak.
This is the same nephew I took on an ATV trip to St. George, Utah, when he was 14. It was the only outfitter I could find who would allow 14-year-olds to drive ATVs by themselves, but only after they had proven themselves to him. The nephew already had his own ATV, a 250, that he used to feed cattle with. But he uncomplainingly went along with the rules.
The outfitter was trying out a new Polaris 750 twin (I think), which was the hot new ATV of that year. He had my nephew drive it and he rode on the back. My nephew was so excited about driving such a "cutting edge" and powerful machine, he wouldn't have cared if three people were on the back. By lunchtime, the nephew was driving his own 250 ATV (another supposedly experienced 14 yr old had proven unequal to the task). And my nephew even realized the ATV had a mechanical problem. The outfitter had an extra part with him and my nephew fixed it before it became a major issue.
The next day, the outfitter just had me and my nephew for his daily trek, this time about an hour out of town. We met him at a gas station and my nephew quickly checked out what ATVs the guy was trailering. He had the 750, a 650 and a 500. My nephew came sidling up to me and whispered excitedly: "Aunt Talea, I get to drive a 500 today!". When we got to the trail we were taking, the outfitter said, "Nephew, you get the 650. I'll put your aunt on the 500."
That night, the nephew called his mom and said, "Mom, I didn't get to drive the 250 today. I could hear her say, 'Oh, son, I'm sorry. I'm sure it's an insurance…' He interrupted her: "But I got to drive the 650, you know the one with the ….."
When we left after 3 days, the outfitter confided in me that he normally hated to take teenagers on his treks but that he'd even hire my nephew because he knew how to take care of machinery, knew how to follow directions, knew how to read terrain and exercised good judgement. "He's been well-taught. Of course, most farm kids are. Not so much with suburban kids."
caber808 On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:54 pm
Suggestion from a former ranch girl, now herder of llamas: try a pail of alfalfa pellets rattled to bribe them along.
TammyR On Tuesday, September 1 at 1:54 pm
Gotta love Charlie!
ms ellie On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:01 pm
laughing out loud at Charlie in the back.
He's a trip!
Janis V On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:02 pm
I can't say enough good things about that 6 year old getting those horses, incredible. What a trooper. And Charlie, my favorite dog, he's right in their helping along. He deserves a steak. Thanks for sharing that great experience. Those horses that my breath away.
Dianne On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:02 pm
I loved the post and pics this morning…and I'm wondering if that is a "child-sized gator"??? It seems to fit him perfectly!
Deenie On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:04 pm
Can I be one of your kids (any one of them) when I grow up?!? (You know what I mean). I just admire everything they get to do – they're "normal" is EXTRAORDINARY~~~
PS….Your littlel boy sure is looking like a little man these days!!
Brandie On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:07 pm
I don't know if it will make you feel any better but your BC was working right. They are supposed to work on balance and bring an animal to you. Not drive them. She's a good dog. And a good kid! Cute stuff.
Sarah at themommylogues On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:07 pm
First of all, I had an English shepherd growing up. She nipped the heels of visitors to herd them where she wanted them to go. Loved that dog.
Second, if you can send your 6 yr old out on a gator to bring in the horses, should I stop panicking about my 6 yr old getting off the bus at the right stop today?
Susan Montgomery On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:12 pm
OMG MM in miniature! He is going to be a head turner when he grows up…
Bonnie On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:17 pm
We have a border collie, Buck. Right now he likes to herd the chickens. I don't think they appreciate him much. He also kept trying to herd my husband's truck and got run over a few times. He's a trooper and keeps on going.
Leyla Naghizada On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:19 pm
These photos are amazing! I love horses, such beautiful and graceful creatures!!! And Charlie is the cutest! And don't get me started on your adorable son… He's definitely going to become a REAL COWBOY! HeeHaa!
By the way, you are ALL WELCOME TO ENTER MY LATEST GIVEAWAY here:
Don't be shy, stop by & say hello! =)
sharon On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:21 pm
Thank you for making ranch life seem so inticing to people, growing up in the country was always accompanied by lots of ribbing. Now people seemed to be seeing what a wonderful life it really is to have, Thank you again God bless you and your family.
Margaret On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:24 pm
Five ranch horses? Is the 6th one a non-ranch horse?
Margaret On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:25 pm
FIve ranch horses? Is the 6th on in the pictures a non-ranch horse?
Margaret On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:25 pm
FIve ranch horses? Is the 6th on in the pictures a non-ranch horse?
shelley e On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:31 pm
love the commentary!!! great photos!
Melisa On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:32 pm
He is adorable…what a great life for the kids. Hopefully I can have mine in the country one day. They would love that!
Jerry Triplett On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:35 pm
Great pics again Ree. Your son is so cute, such a little man, a little Marlboro Man :). The horses are beautiful, I love Quarter Horses. Thanks for sharing your life with us :).
Oh and by the way you can name one of the hermits, " Sits With A Claw " :)…Blessings to you and your family….,Nancy
Denisein SC On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:36 pm
He is so cute…so is Sir Charles!
Apryl On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:42 pm
Oh my, that picture with Charlie off the left flank of the horses is just about my favorite picture I have seen on the internet EVER!
We had a border collie/queensland heeler/mcnab mix for four years. We had to give her up when she escaped too often and the MPs got tired of catching her and lecturing us. (She was the epitome of smart, she could not only open the gate to the fence, she could walk up and climb over it. She was the best dog I have ever known). Anyway, our dog would have been a great herding dog, she herded us and our kids and our two cats
Anyway, thanks for the glimpse into rounding up horses. And the glimpses of your awesome 6-year old.
Ann On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:45 pm
My folks had a Border Collie that lived the 1st 12 yrs. of his life as a house pet. They had him 2 yrs. & then he came to live with us in the country. The 1st bad storm we had , he went down the road to our neighbors & started herding their sheep!
Jennifer On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:49 pm
I simply LOVE your photos and stories!!!!
Janet On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:52 pm
Cracking up over Charlie!! Love it!
Tessa On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:58 pm
Awww, poor boy. Teach him to whistle, then he can bring my horses up.
Mental P Mama On Tuesday, September 1 at 2:59 pm
All I can think of is: Bless his little pea-pickin' heart! He deserves a plate of bacon after all that resourcefulness;)
Laura from PA On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:01 pm
He. Is. Adorable.
Darla Baerg On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:03 pm
I just love Charlie so much. Your kids are cute too, but that Charlie … there are no words.
Taylor On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:08 pm
Beautiful pictures! What great kids you have!
Calamity Anne On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:09 pm
I'm jealous…jackets on September 1!!! I start my day off in short…and end it in shorts…there's no coolness in sight!
Amy J On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:13 pm
He looks like a little Marlboro Boy, MB, of course no smokin' or anything…
daniele On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:24 pm
Ok, I am French, a downright city-girl, never got even close to a ranch, am myself a mother of three girls -got the picture ?-, but the sight of this six-year old boy DRIVING a motorized vehicle like it is just what he does every day, is just amazing ! You are definitely opening my horizon.
I love you !
Jaden On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:24 pm
Aww… I love these photos! Your baby has such a sweet little face.
Bonnie Story On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:28 pm
That is the most adorable six-year old cowpoke I have ever seen. PRICELESS!!!!
Betsy H On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:35 pm
as many before have stated::::::PRICELESS:::::::
How cool, what a life for your kids…you are blessed and you pass those blessing on….thank you Ree for always keepin it real….
afternoon world!!!
Christina (Dinner at Christina's) On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:35 pm
Man, at 6 my mom was still picking out my clothes and doing my hair, while I whined over which Barbie I wanted. I can't imagine having responsibilities like this and knowing how to drive the Gator alone!!
Betsy H On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:35 pm
s/b blessings sorry 'bout that there typo folks!!
Sues2u2 On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:36 pm
I love the photo of your son @ the end. He might not appreciate it yet but he's just so darn cute!
Elaine On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:36 pm
Woohoo! ~243!
(unless someone sneaks in while I'm writing this.)
Your boy is awesome.
Adriana of AZ On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:42 pm
Oh Gosh! How I wanted and dreamed of having your life when I was younger…Funny how life takes you on different paths than what you sometimes dream of…*sniff, sniff*…
Love ya
RobinW On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:42 pm
MMM-minimarlboroman!!! Charlie it jurt too cute.He never gives up.
TrudynOk. On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:44 pm
Cute story and great pictures. I could barely drive at 15 let alone 6.
Tamara On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:45 pm
Wow. and I have a hard time getting my six year old to clean her room.
Daelith On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:46 pm
This really brings back memories. I'm grateful our horses used to come when called.
Babycakes On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:48 pm
They are beautiful photos. Last night I read how you met Marlborough Man and thoroughly enjoyed it. Reminded me of a Tami Hoag book (a little!). I love how your children live life.
Rebekah On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:50 pm
WHAT?!?! is he wearing a coat? In Oklahoma? On the first day of September? I don't remember it ever doing that when I grew up in Oklahoma. Well I was also in the southwest part of the state.
Natalie @ Casa in TX On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:53 pm
My husband had our 8 yr old driving the golf cart blindfolded last month, on the street. Didn't get any pictures, not sure I'd want to.
Natalie @ Casa in TX On Tuesday, September 1 at 3:54 pm
Oh, but he takes care of the gas, the kids just steer.
Andrea On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:03 pm
As the owner of a border collie and the past owner of a beloved beagle, I really appreciated the pictures. I'm impressed Charlie wasn't following his nose someplace. Now for the truth, did your son exhibit any signs of eye rolling, shoulder shrugging, or feet shuffling when asked to do this chore? If not, what's your secret??!!!
Mamadallama On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:10 pm
That last picture is great! What a hoot! Love love love it!
Dee from Tennessee On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:12 pm
I am having such a tough (TUFF, I TELL YA) week at work (boo hoo/bring out the tiny violins)…..and your delightful posts have helped me so much! What a treat to read! These are some of your gems.
Rhonda On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:12 pm
Why those horses wouldn't listen to a basset will always be a mystery to me……
BeachMama On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:13 pm
Wow, your six year old sure gets a lot done! And was that without complaint? Perhaps I don't give my six year old enough credit that he could shovel the driveway in winter or take out the trash.
Tara On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:14 pm
I am always amazed at the things your children do…I have a a7 year old nephew and I can't imagine him as mature as your children! You are doing such a wonderful job with them! Thanks for sharing!
Theresa Castro On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:14 pm
Great photos, Charlie is so cute out there trying to help!
Your son sure seems so much more capable than most 6
year olds, youall have definitely done something right!
I noticed that big jacket too, we're still sweating here in
Fl. and probably will be for another 2 months or so.
Rhonda On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:16 pm
Don't you just want to hug the kid to pieces? Love these posts. And PLEASE send that cooler weather south. I'll even take the rain with it. Like the misty-hazy looking background.
Farmrgurl On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:18 pm
I have found that Gators and horses don't work well, but a bucket of grain sure does! That is just too cute!
inadvertentfarmer On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:18 pm
My six year old can barely clean her room…I have done something terribly wrong! I am as usual totally impressed with the independence of your children…you should be proud! LOVE that last pic, Kim
Ronda On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:19 pm
Give that Boy an A for effort! Charlie, too!
Lizzy On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:22 pm
Wow, I just had flashbacks of my childhood. Only we didn't have a Gator.
Your boys are just too cute! Charlie really makes me laugh! Oh, and I love how beautiful it looks there in the morning.
hooligansmom On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:25 pm
Isn't it amazing how others live and what's expected and absolutely normal for their kids. I LOVE…repeat..LOVE when I see pictures of your kids driving something. I almost pee my pants with awe because they get to experience things that my little ones may never experience..and vice versa I'm sure.
Is it cold where you are? I saw the big down jacket..we're boiling here in SoCal..and burning up with fires too.
Salty On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:27 pm
I love it he reminds me of my own little punk!
Danae Wood On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:30 pm
I need to give my 9-year-old some harder jobs. Make a man out of him!
Mimi On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:33 pm
The shots of the horses and the beautiful greeenery are just lush! Aren't we so lucky to have green grass the first of September.
I felt a pang of sorry for the little tyke who "could't get them mama."
Rachael J On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:34 pm
I want your life!
bootirons On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:34 pm
so cute…we have a Ranger and all the kids and grandkids drive it all over the pastures…our 5 year old granddaughter just figured out she could stand up to push the pedals (we don't send her out alone yet, ha!) Border Collies gather (bring TO you) instead of pushing them in WITH you. If you got in front of the horses, she'd probably bring up the rear. (Natural instinct). That's why she's in front of your boy instead of behind. I dunno about Charlie, tho! haha! We've always had Borders, and they're perfect for ranch work…or to just love on. But they do NEED a JOB. Great Pics!
wannabeoutwest On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:35 pm
At our dude ranch, we used to leave 2 horses in at night so we could wrangle (in this case, chase in 40 different directions for an hour) the other 40 into the corral every morning. Everybody fought over who got to get up extra early and do it. Then we got a new hand who volunteered to do it every morning in exchange for baby sitting. We thought *sucker!* and agreed gladly. The next day, she waited until we were all there, got in her jeep, drove out to the far pasture and cracked a bullwhip, one time, loud enough for us to hear it back at the barn. 5 minutes later, every damn horse ran in like they'd done this every day of their lives. Man, did we feel like morons!
Maggie, living in Bliss On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:42 pm
That 6 year-old has the eyes of someone much older.
I bet he has better manners than Amy #46, too.
Shame on you, Amy. Hopefully, your nasty little barb will fly right past your target, and he won't even see it. ;^(
Tina On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:46 pm
Love the photos. I have a border collie mix dog, Lacy, downfall is she has never been worked so she would love to stop for bacon or any other food. All she herd is me on our walks and I have her somewhat trained not to herd me. Only took 5 years so I think that if she was worked she would be very good at it.
Andrea On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:48 pm
um.. no offence to the pooches, ADORABLE and well intentioned as they are….but maybe next time your boy can leave them at home – I get the feeling they weren't entirely helpful…!! ….is it just me???!!
Bush Babe (of Granite Glen) On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:51 pm
Just read this post to my 4-year-old daughter over our toast (breakfast time here). She loved the photos and story and pointed to Charlie and said "Axel!!". This is what happens when you crop a shot tight that doesn't show proportion, Ree! Axel is a Great Dane – should Charlie be flattered or offended??
Here is Violet's message to your boy: kjhfdasewuujkffmnbv
kjhgmibgbj;qas (translation: Why do you live so far away? And why do you have to work all day)
Ann On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:55 pm
You said you have five ranch horses. The little guy did good almost bringing in six horses!
Laurie On Tuesday, September 1 at 4:58 pm
Was that Hamilton I was in one picture? I guess Foxhounds aren't much help in bringing in the horses either.
deb On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:07 pm
My 17 yo Aussie Shepherd has been herding the kitchen table legs lately–I think she has some dementia going on….
I have trouble catching the horses too. The last time the farrier came, the only one in the herd I could catch was the overweight mini and that was because he will come for an apple. The rest of them just ran away and laughed at me.
Your son is too cute. Dont tell them. Men are cuter when they dont know it.
Deb in WI
Ruthie On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:07 pm
I appreciate how much your kids help out.. even so young they know what needs to be done. Way awesome PW.
Sharon Bowman On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:14 pm
I am amazed that a six-year old child can do that. It's all in how they're raised, I s'pose.
Kasandria Reasoner On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:15 pm
Not only beautiful photography, but installing a work ethic at a young age. Priceless!
Vesta Karen Staley On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:15 pm
What cuties!!!! That's your son & Charlie too. Your boy looks just like his Daddy, MM! Thanks for sharing the pictures. Lady will come around, I'm sure!
marybeth On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:16 pm
It is just crazy how much your boy looks like his daddy – just crazy. He is jusy crazy cute!
justrun On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:17 pm
Nothin' cuter than a little boy moving horses in a Gator. (Okay, so I've never SEEN a little boy in a Gator before, but that doesn't really prevent me from making that statement, does it?)
trish On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:22 pm
Lady's not defective… border collies work in front of the herd, so they can crouch down low and take control by giving the instinctive "eye" so often captured in photographs. The border collie tendency to "follow in front of you" is why border collies who live in houses are always underfoot. But the whole "giving eye" thing works best with creatures who are intimidated by a wolf-thing staring at them — great with sheep, not so good with strong-minded horses!
thunja On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:27 pm
LOL. even Charlie looks frustrated. That child is beautiful.
Meili On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:31 pm
It cracks me up to see a 6 year-old driving a motorized vehicle.
Patty On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:37 pm
I'm just wondering, if they'll all stick together, and I'm sure they are trained enough to stay put when you approach them… couldn't he just get one of them with some kind of rope or halter and lead it in? I dunno maybe that's harder than it sounds, especially for a 6 yr old. That last pic is fabulous. He's going to be as gorgeous as MM when he grows up.
tulipsmom On Tuesday, September 1 at 5:40 pm
May I suggest a long leash for Lady while she learns? We used that on a border collie we were training. It'll help her stay on the right side of the herd.


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Delaney goes home
Former Yarmouth standout returns to alma mater as coach
Ryan Delaney, who skated into legend after leading the Yarmouth hockey team to the 2001 Class B state championship, will return to the Clippers as associate head coach, Yarmouth head coach Marc Halsted announced last week.
Delaney had over 100 goals and over 200 points during his playing career and will forever be remembered for his epic double-overtime game-winning goal against Falmouth in the 2001 Western Class B Final and his hat trick against Gardiner in the state game. He worked as an assistant with Scott Rousseau and the always potent Falmouth program the past two seasons.
Now, he's returning to his roots.
"There will be some work cut out, but I'm excited for the challenge and this opportunity," Delaney said. "I understand there's some talent coming up through the program."
The Yarmouth program has struggled in recent seasons, including a 4-12-2 mark this past winter. The Clippers have qualified for the playoffs just once in the past four seasons and haven't enjoyed a winning mark since 2003-04.
"The title of associate head coach is an indication of both the faith I have in Ryan as a dynamic young coach and a firm statement of the significant part Ryan wants to play with our program," Halsted said. "Ryan will have the opportunity to help shape our offensive scheme, the power play and many of our core systems and concepts. I have tremendous faith in Ryan and firmly believe he'll bring a certain intensity, passion and knowledge to Yarmouth hockey."
Delaney graduated from Hobart College and works for the Portland Pirates in corporate sales. He said he enjoyed his time with Falmouth and is looking forward to the new opportunity.
"I learned in my experience with Falmouth," Delaney said, "Scott was really supportive. In getting to know Marc over the past month, I really look forward to working with him."
Rest assured, the Yarmouth community will be very excited to have a legend back in the fold.
"We are extremely excited to have Ryan Delaney back in Clipperland," said Yarmouth athletic director Susan Robbins. "He brings a sound knowledge of the game and has a true passion for ice hockey. Additionally, he is an alumnus and vested in the success of our program. We have always had good luck with former alums coaching in our programs and feel very fortunate to welcome Ryan back!"
Sports Editor Michael Hoffer can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com


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Created: 12/03/2012 10:14 PM KSTP.com By: Scott Theisen
An Albertville woman is sentenced to a year and a day in prison for stealing from the bank where she worked.
The Hennepin County Attorney's Office says Kelly Jo Bistodeau, 53, was sentenced Thursday for stealing more than $187,000 from the First National Bank of Elk River. She worked in the bank's Hassan branch.
She pleaded guilty to aggravated forgery and eight counts of theft by swindle.
The county attorney's office had sought a 25-month sentence, arguing the Bistodeau had carried out a sophisticated scheme for at least seven years and the $187,000 was only the amount that could be charged under the five-year statute of limitations.
In his victim impact statement, bank president and chief executive officer John Houlton said it appears Bistodeau stole more than $300,000, the attorney's office says.
A Hennepin County District Court judge said that Bistodeau had shown her remorse and had paid $187,000 in restitution to the bank.


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Open AccessThis article is
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Sustainability 2013, 5(9), 3858-3875; doi:10.3390/su5093858
Rethinking Study and Management of Agricultural Systems for Policy Design
Received: 15 June 2013 / Revised: 14 August 2013 / Accepted: 30 August 2013 / Published: 12 September 2013
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organic Farming and a Systems Approach to Sustainable Agroecosystems)
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AbstractThere is a concern that agriculture will no longer be able to meet, on a global scale, the growing demand for food. Facing such a challenge requires new patterns of thinking in the context of complexity and sustainability sciences. This paper, focused on the social dimension of the study and management of agricultural systems, suggests that rethinking the study of agricultural systems entails analyzing them as complex socio-ecological systems, as well as considering the differing thinking patterns of diverse stakeholders. The intersubjective nature of knowledge, as studied by different philosophical schools, needs to be better integrated into the study and management of agricultural systems than it is done so far, forcing us to accept that there are no simplistic solutions, and to seek a better understanding of the social dimension of agriculture. Different agriculture related problems require different policy and institutional approaches. Finally, the intersubjective nature of knowledge asks for the visualization of different framings and the power relations taking place in the decision-making process. Rethinking management of agricultural systems implies that policy making should be shaped by different principles: learning, flexibility, adaptation, scale-matching, participation, diversity enhancement and precaution hold the promise to significantly improve current standard management procedures.
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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Posts filtered on Tag
Blake Sticker finds peace, chaos and the blues
There was a time when Blake Sticker considered walking away from music altogether. "I had almost given up music," the local singer and guitar picker said. "Then some personal things happened and I realized this was all I have now, and apparently (what I'm) supposed to be doing." Funny things happen when you feel like […] [Read More]


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Lng Supply news and technical articles from Oil & Gas Journal. Search Lng Supply latest and archived news and articles
billion cu m/year. Photo from Polskie LNG. Chris Smith Warren R. True Chief Technology Editor As 2014 began, global LNG supply and demand remained largely in balance. Only two liquefaction plants came on stream last year, while several new or
Global LNG supply by 2013 will jump as nearly 100 million ..... for the first time faces an abundance of LNG supply , vessels, and regasification, prices will ..... CERAWeek 2009's Gas Day, in Houston. LNG supply , pricing Daniel Muthmann, vice-president
Processing HOUSTON, Feb. 12 -- Global LNG supply by 2013 will jump, as nearly 100 ..... first time faces an abundance of LNG supply , vessels, and regasification ..... CERAWeek 2009's Gas Day, in Houston. LNG supply , pricing Daniel Muthmann, vice
has cast serious doubt on the stability of the future LNG supply -demand balance in Asia. The report, by the Institute ..... Economics Japan (IEEJ), contends that not only will LNG supply far exceed demand by 2010, but also deregulation of
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Arab Idol A's finally kiss and make up
Arab Idol's feisty Ahlam has finally kissed and made up with her long running show nemesis Ragheb Alama. The drama between these two judges has threatened to steal the thunder from the competition between contestants, but Friday night's episode showed the two getting along again at last.
When the episode first started, Ragheb was raggin' Ahlam for arriving late to the show, but when Nancy Ajram began to sing him Happy Birthday, Ahlam joined in.
The songster thanked them all, admitting that despite all his probs with Ahlam, he does still love her crazy self. He kidded that he would write a song titled "Crazy" after her, and Hassan offered to produce it.
Diana Haddad added to the glamor of the evening with guest performances, alongside the contestants. They did a tribute of sorts to Samira Tawfiq, using some of her songs in the set. Palestinian favorite Mohammad Assaf and Farah Youssef outshined the competition with stellar performances.
Are they friends again for good, or is this just to make next week's battle of the A's all the more dramatic? Please share your comments below.


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Daryl Katz Thinks You Won't Bother Checking What He Says
Jonathan Willis
February 25 2010 04:02PM
Daryl Katz has been kicking his public relations campaign on behalf of a new arena into high gear. Not long after arranging for a radio interview with employee Bob Stauffer, Katz has launched a new website and has produced the YouTube video above (The Oilers new motto: "We love new media!").
Around the League - Feb 25, 2010
Jason Gregor
February 25 2010 03:03PM
What an incredible week of drama, excitement, passion, athleticism, heartache and unbridled emotion we've seen from the Olympics.
Back at it: are we there yet?
Robin Brownlee
February 24 2010 11:34PM
Happy to get away in the first place and less thrilled than that to be back with good reason, the Edmonton Oilers returned to the ice at Rexall Place Wednesday afternoon, marking an end to their Olympic break.
Jason Gregor
February 24 2010 12:04PM
The playoffs are here, and while most of us were hoping to meet Russia for the gold medal, meeting them in the quarter-final won't lessen the intensity, excitement or nervousness.
OGDB 4: Sprichst du hockey?
Jason Gregor
February 23 2010 12:10PM
After Sunday's disappointing loss to the Americans and a pending date with the Russians tomorrow, it's really hard to feel the same angst when Canada faces the Germans tonight.


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Henderson councilwoman criticizes outgoing police chief
An elected city leader in Henderson is publicly criticizing the outgoing police chief and says comments by the city manager are not supported by her and other members of the city council.
Sara Coffey, almost to the end of her second term on the council, requested an interview to express her opinion on several topics related to the recent retirement announcement of Keith Sidwell, the city's police chief since January 2007. Sidwell's last day is May 31.
Coffey said she and other council members were not in agreement with comments by Ray Griffin, the city manager. She said Sidwell instilled good programs, but "probably 65 percent of the citizens never knew who he was" until seeing the retirement story in The Dispatch.
Coffey said Sidwell didn't do citizens justice, accusing him of not meeting with them and not returning phone calls. She also said complaints were filed with city council and "citizens did not feel like they got resolved because of it being a personnel issue."
"All they could get was, 'Oh, it's been handled,'" Coffey said.
Coffey also accused The Dispatch of being unfair in reporting Sidwell's retirement.
"All we want is for our community to be safe again," Coffey said, "and have some leadership in place that can do that. And we don't feel like that's what happened with him."
Coffey also accused Sidwell of being less than honest about why he's leaving. She said the chief nor Griffin mentioned "underlying issues," which she said include an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaint, reasons given for officers leaving the police department, inaccurate information on crime statistics and a lack of visibility by Sidwell in the community.
Sidwell said a week ago the timing was right because his department was fully staffed, the crime rate had decreased and he was no longer looking to work full-time. He retired with 25 years service in Virginia before coming to Henderson. He is vested for a second retirement here.
Coffey also pointed out the chief did not speak at a public meeting in the E.M. Rollins Elementary School auditorium on Feb. 26. Advised the meeting wasn't directly tied to three homicides in five days during a 10-day stretch before that meeting, Coffey said, "Nobody knew that, including me."
Coffey said the city could get a new police chief who would work with the citizens, and be "more suited for our population, somebody that maybe understands our population a little bit more."
The city council, a policy-making board not tasked with personnel issues in a council-manager form of government, can only hire and fire three positions — the city manager, the city attorney and the city clerk. Coffey was asked if the chief was forced out.
"No, I can't say that," Coffey said.
Coffey also requested The Dispatch talk with four other council members. All seven were contacted and given the chance to speak on the chief's retirement, and asked if the chief was forced out.
Brenda Peace-Jenkins, Vernon Brown and George Daye said they didn't know. Michael Rainey and Garry Daeke said not to their knowledge. Michael Inscoe and Jim Kearney said he was not forced out.
A review of Coffey's comments found numbers used without statistical support and therefore subject to debate and interpretation, generalities and state law preventing release of information she said citizens are desiring.
Coffey, owner and operator of a bail bonds business, is the Ward 1 at-large representative. Her seat on the council is one of four up for re-election this fall.
Griffin announced Sidwell's retirement on Friday morning, May 3. Coffey called the newspaper the night before, making herself available for comment on his departure and advising there was a pending EEOC complaint.
"We were not in total agreement of everything in that newspaper article making the chief out to be almost larger than life in this city," Coffey said. "And the only person, seems like, what the article was intended to do was that, he was leaving under great circumstances and he was leaving because he wanted to retire. And that might be all fine and dandy, but there are a lot of underlying issues behind that."
Asked for specifics on the source of complaints, how many and a time frame, Coffey said, "I couldn't give you a count. I mean, it's a whole bunch of them."
Coffey referenced a letter to the city council from 2012, but was unsure of its date.
"It was sent to all of the city council members for us to discuss and look at by the citizen, and we did, and we don't feel like a lot of those issues got resolved, and neither do the citizens that have contacted us.
"There's been more than that this year as far as written complaints that I personally have seen and have copies of. I know that they are there. And I know citizens always come to us council members and complain. They don't always do it on paper. They come to us a lot, and complain, and we have to listen to them, and then if we ask them to write anything and take it to the city manager, we feel like that's where it stops."
Coffey said she has explained to citizens the council is not responsible for hiring and firing the police chief, that complaints should go to the city manager. But she said citizens return to her.
Asked why, Coffey said, "Because you've got dead people laying all over the city. You've got rapes all over the city. Who else do they come to? They have to come to us."
She added of Griffin, "He does not want to discuss personnel. And that's where our citizens get so confused and so unhappy. When an issue presents itself, and they get a standard form letter saying there were no findings, it has been investigated and there were no findings, when they know all the time that they know what happened to them. They're not going to come in and tell you a lie about something and take it to the extent of actually filing a complaint, or trying to meet with the chief, or meet with the city manager, which several of them have done."
In explaining the procedure for handling complaints, Sidwell and Griffin said any complaint whether verbal or in written form is fully investigated. The department adheres to the policies and procedures of the Commission of Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, which are based on the best police practices by the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Henderson's department is a flagship agency in CALEA, representing status as best of the best.
"Every complaint that comes in the department, whether it is oral or in writing, has to be investigated and we put that in writing," Sidwell said. "And whether it is an administrative investigation, or an investigation for the citizen, those investigations are carried through to completion.
"Now, we can only divulge certain information from an investigation because North Carolina general statue 160A-168 deems what we can and cannot release regarding an internal investigation. To divulge any information regarding personnel records is a Class 1 misdemeanor, and you are not allowed to do that."
Griffin confirmed discussing any personnel actions would be against the law. He also explained some complaints are developed during a criminal investigation, or pending court action.
"A common delay tactic is to have something on file in the police department alleging police misconduct," Griffin said. "That's an old common thing."
Griffin said information related to personnel or criminal investigations, even for traffic stops, are sensitive due to the possibility of going to court.
"If you found that there was appropriate need to discipline or counsel an officer, you would say that the matter has been addressed," Griffin said. "And that's all he says."
Kari Johnson is a lawyer associated with the N.C. League of Municipalities, through which the city is insured. She's been in Henderson before to explain a potential citizen review board, which would have to be authorized by the N.C. General Assembly, and which would be bound to North Carolina law on personnel issues.
In 2010, the only North Carolina communities with such a board were Durham, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Charlotte, which have police forces in the range of 500 officers. Henderson has 51 sworn officers.
Sidwell provided numerical data on complaints. The department, between January 2007 and December 2012, handled a total of 159,901 calls with 188 complaints — a percentage of complaints to calls of 0.1 percent.
Within the numbers, complaints rose between 2007 and 2010 coinciding with two grant programs providing extra officers and aimed at reducing drug activity. There has been a steady decline in complaints since 2009, with 2012 numbers being just shy of half those reported in 2009.
Rainey expressed confidence complaints are dealt with fairly.
"Anything that was brought to us by citizens, it was handled in the proper methods as far as hearings, complaints and investigative work," Rainey said. "The results may not have been what people wanted to happen, but that's the way it is."
Council reaction
Other members of the city council were not as outspoken as Coffey.
In positive comments, council members said Sidwell did a good job, officers are properly trained and equipped, and the department is fiscally responsible with grants and asset forfeiture money. The common thread in negative comments was complaints against the department and Sidwell's visibility.
Daye said in his time as a manager at Harriet & Henderson Yarns, he sought to defuse and resolve complaints with urgency.
Kearney also questioned whether complaints were investigated. And he referenced the aborted attempt at a citizen review board.
"I was a little perplexed as to why we couldn't get that done," Kearney said. "Some of it is the law. Still, it seems like the fox is watching the henhouse."
Rainey said Sidwell took over "a rough situation" and helped curtail violent crime.
"We still have them to a point, but he sent a lot away to the federal prison that we haven't had in the past," Rainey said.
"It's going to be hard to replace him."
Daeke said it was not appropriate for council to comment on retirements. He did add he thought the chief had "done a really good job here in Henderson" and felt the streets were safer in part through the federal programs through which the department was partnering.
"I hate to see him leave," Daeke said.
Inscoe had positive comments for Sidwell, and noted habitual felons were removed from the streets. He recognized the four homicides through May 4 as an increase.
Regarding the possibility Sidwell was forced out, Inscoe said, "The chief works for the city manager. The city council's priorities are not to manage, but to set policy."
Peace-Jenkins also spoke of complaints and Sidwell's visibility.
EEOC complaint
Coffey volunteered and brought to The Dispatch a copy of the EEOC Form 5 complaint filed by a Henderson officer against Sidwell alleging a charge of discrimination based on race and retaliation.
Coffey said the officer would agree to its contents being released. The Dispatch declined to name the officer or contents of the form signed with an April 30 date.
Coffey said the city became aware of the allegation April 9 through written notice.
Griffin said he was unable to comment on the complaint, other than to acknowledge a filing.
"I know it's gone to the city manager or the chief," Coffey said. "It still should have come to us."
Crime is down
In several instances during her interview, Coffey referenced others speaking of the decrease in crime.
"Another thing we're really concerned about, the statements that keep being made that crime is down, crime is down," Coffey said. "Now, I'm sorry, I don't know what they're looking at as far as crime being down, but we've had five murders in five months. That's one a month.
"I have a real hard time looking at a mother that's just lost her son to a violent crime, and telling her, 'Oh, the chief said, or the city manager said, crime is down.' We don't really feel good about that. Now, I don't know what statistics they go by to show crime is down."
Reminded the council is made aware of the Uniform Crime Report, which the police department reports to the state and in turn is forwarded to a national statistical base, Coffey said, "Numbers, but anybody can go in and do numbers.
"We're given a copy of the numbers. But I'm telling you the numbers don't match the crimes.
"There's been rapes. There's been carjackings. What am I supposed to tell the public? How am I supposed to tell them crime is down?"
Added Peace-Jenkins, "They feel when we talk about the crime rate is down, they can't understand it when we have a murder every other week that is unresolved."
Henderson police currently have no unsolved homicides in 2013, and the number of rapes reported (two) is not significantly askew of the annual totals for 2012 (four), 2011 (four) and 2010 (four).
Arrests have been made for the double-homicide on Feb. 16, and homicides on Feb. 21 and May 4.
Through May 8, Henderson police have investigated 36 homicides since Sidwell arrived in January 2007. Of those, 29 are solved for an 80.6-percent clearance rate. The national average is 66 percent.
In the UCR report, Part 1 crimes include murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larcenies including pocket picked, purse snatching, shoplifting, from motor vehicles, motor vehicle parts, from buildings, from coin machines and a category listed as other. Those categories combine for a mean average.
It is that average that is generally referenced to increases or decreases in crimes for law enforcement agencies.
Henderson's rate rose in 2008 and 2009, then fell in 2010, again in 2011 and again in 2012.
Griffin, like many state and federal administrators, believes in the Baldridge philosophies when disseminating evaluation criteria to enhance performance. In that is the belief trends are based on a minimum of three years, with preference of five.
"We have three solid data points showing crime is coming down," Griffin said.
Sidwell said when crime rose through 2009, it was expected and due in part to changes that allowed callers to remain anonymous in the 911 system. Some crimes, Sidwell acknowledged, were not getting reported.
"Once it took hold, that's when you start seeing the downward trend," Sidwell said.
More recently, Henderson police have partnered with federal agencies, removing what are typically referred to as "career criminals" from the city's streets. Another 20 may be gone before a new chief is hired.
Sidwell said the overall crime rate going down has a domino affect.
"I can no more stop a person two offices away from this interview from pulling a gun out of their purse and walking next door and shooting the person in the office beside me," Sidwell said. "Murder, unfortunately, has happened. However, we can also show that a large portion of those homicides are crime related, and that is nefarious dealings between individuals, victims and suspects, whether it's drug trafficking, a personal beef, a fight that occurred earlier, and sometimes it's interfamilial.
"Its unfortunate that human beings see fit to take another life, but they do. But that is a societal problem."
Daye agrees.
"Crime is down, but he can't control that, I don't think, because you never know when a crime is going to be committed," Daye said.
"We can't read nobody else's mind, and God did a good job on that. If we're going to put blame somewhere, put it where it ought to be. We just can't tell what another human being is going to do. All we can do is handle it after the situation happens."
Coffey described interactions with citizens that paint a picture of older citizens afraid to leave their homes, businesses unable to prosper, and shoppers not coming to Henderson due to fear.
"I want a leadership that can go out and meet with the public, and sit down and get a viewpoint of what the public actually needs, and not someone you can't talk to," Coffey said.
Peace-Jenkins said citizens didn't know Sidwell and only knew him if seeing him on television.
"Probably 65 percent of the citizens never knew who he was and that was seeing his picture for the first time when he was leaving," Coffey said.
Sidwell said he has accepted every request to speak publicly on behalf of his position and the department when called. Among the groups are churches, the Optimist Club, Kiwanis, Lions, Salvation Army, Community Watch groups, Business Watch groups and Church Watch groups.
He also appears every other week on a radio call-in show at WIZS-1450 AM. Sidwell also appears at community functions, and says he typically stands aside to see his officers interact and evaluate them. He said he does not seek the spotlight.
"I feel that it is just as important for community policing and coactive policing to also have members of my department stand up and shine," Sidwell said.
Sidwell said officers are placed in leadership positions and become recognizable to the community through them, such as Lt. Irvin Robinson with Crime Stoppers and Lt. Alan Hedgepeth and Lt. Christopher Ball with information released to the public.
Sgt. Jessica West, who was recently promoted, is another who was recognizable with community policing and with the Crime Prevention Unit.
"Those individuals are responsible for the work," Sidwell said. "Those individuals are responsible for the leadership, and those individuals shine. The department as a whole shines. I am out in the community, I am at meetings, I interact with all of the general public.
"I feel that it is very easy to give information based on perception, and perception to the uneducated and misinformed, obviously at times, can become reality."
Sidwell said his appearances at crime scenes vary, but decreased once he was on the job for a full year and had assessed his department in action.
"Once through that year that I felt that I had the competency in place, specifically in investigations as well as uniform patrol and leadership," Sidwell said, "I did not go out to crime scenes as much because true professionals do not like to be micro-managed."
Coffey pointed out a public meeting in E.M. Rollins Elementary School's auditorium on Feb. 26, when Sidwell did not speak to the public. Television stations not normally in Henderson were also at the meeting.
Coffey thought he would have spoken.
Coffey said she and the citizens in the community believed the meeting was about a recent increase in violent crimes, including three homicides in five days, and were not informed of the purpose of the meeting.
"Nobody knew that, including me," Coffey said.
The Dispatch reviewed city council activities. The Feb. 25 city council meeting agenda packet included a notice sent by Ronald Gregory, superintendent of Vance County Schools, to the council. Peace-Jenkins mentioned the Rollins school meeting during that Feb. 25 council session as well.
Gregory's notice indicated the purpose of the meeting was "to discuss community safety and protection of youth in Vance County.
"The meeting will be a one-hour session for open discussion about how to make our community a safer place for our citizens and our youth."
The notice was sent to "stakeholders" of the community, numbering more than 100, including city and county government leaders, business leaders, law enforcement representatives, local judges, attorneys, leaders of civic organizations, church leaders, representatives of Vance-Granville Community College and local educators. The plan was for it to be a starting point for a series of meetings, according to Gregory's notice.
The Dispatch's Feb. 24 edition included a story on Page A1 advising of the meeting and its purpose. It also included details on the formulation of the idea, which originated in December.
At the time of the meeting at Rollins, three teens had been shot to death in an eight-month period.
Gregory arranged for student speakers and did not request any law enforcement speakers, public officials or anyone outside the school system. A common theme was students saying they didn't feel safe.
Sidwell attended, sitting alongside Fire Chief Danny Wilkerson and Sheriff Peter White.
"That school meeting was set in December, and it was postponed to February," Sidwell said. "The television media blew that entire meeting out of context for what it was never meant to be.
"It was to address school safety, and Ronald Gregory never asked for the chief of police, the sheriff, the fire chief or the mayor to speak. That was because that was a venue that was 100 percent away from what the television media wanted to make it about."
Sidwell said he was, as always, ready to speak if called upon even unannounced.
"Whenever you go to a public venue such as that, you have to be on your feet and be willing to step up," Sidwell said. "And I believe the sheriff was. I know I was."
After he's gone
Coffey also pointed out exit interviews are not always done for departing officers, and sometimes reasons given for exits are not fully factual. Griffin confirmed exit interviews from city positions are voluntary.
Coffey was asked about low attendance at meetings such as the Henderson-Vance Community Watch Association. While an estimated 500 turned out for the meeting at Rollins, perhaps on misguided belief, less than 100 typically show for the citywide community watch meetings.
"A lot of it has to do with citizen mentality here and the fact they don't feel they can get out and trust people to talk about the situations prior to them happening," Coffey said.
"If they don't feel like they can trust you, they're going to come to people that they can trust, like myself, like a couple of other council people. They're going to tell us these things.
"And then when we try to take it forward, it looks like we're meddling. It looks like we're trying to run the police department, and we certainly are not."
Sidwell and Griffin understand the frustration of those upset over not getting findings of complaints. However, those wanting the findings made public are wanting access to information that is forbidden by law to be given out.
Understanding the crime rate data can be complex. As with any statistic, interpretation is pivotal. And some statistics, such as homicide or involving violence, get more attention.
"I will tell you this," Daye said. "I heard a lot of complaints against Harriet & Henderson, and they treated people well. But when they left, those people were still left here.
"They had heaven, and now it's gone. And they can tell you what good it was. And now it's gone."
Contact the writer at email@example.com.
The following are statistics on complaints lodged against the Henderson Police Department during the tenure of Chief Keith Sidwell:
• 2007: 22 complaints on 33,802 calls (3,380 arrests, 8,807 vehicle stops).
• 2008: 31 complaints on 25,432 calls (2,317 arrests, 9,853 vehicle stops).
• 2009: 45 complaints on 36,311 calls (2,425 arrests, 11,099 vehicle stops).
• 2010: 39 complaints on 33,212 calls (1,871 arrests, 10,182 vehicle stops).
• 2011: 28 complaints on 31,357 calls (2,337 arrests, 6,720 vehicle stops).
• 2012: 23 complaints on 30,144 calls (2,177 arrests, 5,628 vehicle stops).
• Total 2007-2012: 188 complaints on 159,901 calls (14,507 arrests, 52,289 vehicle stops).
• Percentage of complaints to total calls: 0.1 percent.
The following are statistics on homicides investigated by the Henderson Police Department during the tenure of Chief Keith Sidwell:
• 2007: seven homicides, five solved, 71.4 percent clearance rate.
• 2008: three homicides, three solved, 100 percent clearance rate.
• 2009: four homicides, three solved, 75 percent clearance rate.
• 2010: five homicides, three solved, 60 percent clearance rate.
• 2011: six homicides, five solved, 83.3 percent clearance rate.
• 2012: eight homicides, six solved, 75 percent clearance rate.
• 2013: four homicides, four solves, 100 percent clearance rate.
• Total 2007-2013: 36 homicides, 29 solved, 80.6 percent clearance rate.
• National clearance rate: 66 percent.


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Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud
Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud
When he was still a youth, not yet past the age of puberty, he used to roam the mountain trails of Makkah far away from people, tending the flocks of a Quraysh chieftain, Uqbah ibn Muayt. People called him "Ibn Umm Abd"- the son of the mother of a slave. His real name was Abdullah and his father's name was Mas'ud.
The youth had heard the news of the Prophet who had appeared among his people but he did not attach any importance to it both because of his age and because he was usually far away from Makkan society. It was his custom to leave with the flock of Uqbah early in the morning and not return until nightfall.
One day while tending the flocks, Abdullah saw two men, middle-aged and of dignified bearing, coming towards him from a distance. They were obviously very tired. They were also so thirsty that their lips and throat were quite dry. They came up to him, greeted him and said, "Young man, milk one of these sheep for us that we may quench our thirst and recover our strength."
"I cannot," replied the young man. "The sheep are not mine. I am only responsible for looking after them."
The two men did not argue with him. In fact, although they were so thirsty, they were extremely pleased at the honest reply. The pleasure showed on their faces . . .
The two men in fact were the blessed Prophet himself and his companion, Abu Bakr Siddiq. They had gone out on that day to the mountains of Makkah to escape the violent persecution of the Quraysh.
The young man in turn was impressed with the Prophet and his companion and soon became quite attached to them.
It was not long before Abdullah ibn Mas'ud became a Muslim and offered to be in the service of the Prophet. The Prophet agreed and from that day the fortunate Abdullah ibn Mas'ud gave up tending sheep in exchange for looking after the needs of the blesse d Prophet.
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud remained closely attached to the Prophet. He would attend to his needs both inside and outside the house. He would accompany him on journeys and expeditions. He would wake him when he slept. He would shield him when he washed. He would carry his staff and his siwak (toothbrush) and attend to his other personal needs.
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud received a unique training in the household of the Prophet. He was under the guidance of the Prophet, he adopted his manner and followed his every trait until it was said of him, "He was the closest to the Prophet in character."
Abdullah was taught in the "school" of the Prophet. He was the best reciter of the Qur'an among the companions and he understood it better than them all. He was therefore the most knowledgeable on the Shariah. Nothing can illustrate this better than the story of the man who came to Umar ibn al-Khattab as he was standing on the plain of Arafat and said:
"I have come, O Amir al-Mu'mineen, from Kufah where I left a man filling copies of the Qur'an from memory."
Umar became very angry and paced up and down beside his camel, fuming.
"Who is he?" he asked.
"Abdullah ibn Masiud," replied the man.
Umar's anger subsided and he regained his composure.
"Woe to you," he said to the man. "By God, I don't know of any person left who is more qualified in this matter than he is. Let me tell you about this." Umar continued:
"One night the Messenger of God, peace be upon him, was havmg a conversation with Abu Bakr about the situation of Muslims. I was with them. When the Prophet left, we left with him also and as we passed through the mosque, there was a man standing in Prayer whom we did not recognise. The Prophet stood and listened to him, then turned to us and said, 'Whoever wants to read the Qur'an as fresh as when it was revealed, then let him read according to the recitation of Ibn Umm Abd.'
After the Prayer, as Abdullah sat making supplications, the Prophet, peace be on him, said, "Ask and it will be given to you. Ask and it will be given to you."
Umar continued: "I said to myself- I shall go to Abdullah ibn Mas'ud straight away and tell him the good news of the Prophet's ensuring acceptance of his supplications. I went and did so but found that Abu Bakr had gone before me and conveyed the good news to him. By God, I have never yet beaten Abu Bakr in the doing of any good."
Abdullah ibn Mas'ud attained such a knowledge of the Qur'an that he would say, "By Him besides Whom there is no god, no verse of the book of God has been revealed without my knowing where it was revealed and the circumstances of its revelation. By God, if I know there was anyone who knew more of the Book of Allah, I will do whatever is in my power to be with him."
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Michael De Leon
Michael A. De Leon is a graphic designer by day, but wears many hats in his off time. In 2004, after several years of covering the Spurs, he started Project Spurs, a Spurs team fansite as an outlet to provide content to Spurs fans, while continuing to write for himself and learning the ins and outs of online publishing and web design. He has since built a writing team and started a popular weekly Spurs podcast called the Spurscast.
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Wanted: Team Willing to Take Player Taller Than 6'4''
By Mikkayla Guillett, Toros Nation It seems like just the other day Toros Nation co-founder Jeff Garcia and I were telling Eddie Basden bon voyage before he left for his upcoming season with the Philippines Basketball Association. What a difference two weeks can make. For those of you who don't know, and I'm going to guess it is the […] [Read More]


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1. acquire - verb
· come into the possession of something concrete or abstract; "She got a lot of paintings from her uncle"; "They acquired a new pet"; "Get your results the next day"; "Get permission to take a few days off from work"
Synonym(s): get
2. acquire - verb
· take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect; "His voice took on a sad tone"; "The story took a new turn"; "he adopted an air of superiority"; "She assumed strange manners"; "The gods assume human or animal form in these fables"
Synonym(s): assume, adopt, take_on, take
Hypernym(s): change
3. acquire - verb
· come to have or undergo a change of (physical features and attributes); "He grew a beard"; "The patient developed abdominal pains"; "I got funny spots all over my body"; "Well-developed breasts"
Synonym(s): grow, develop, produce, get
Hypernym(s): change
4. acquire - verb
· locate (a moving entity) by means of a tracking system such as radar
5. acquire - verb
· win something through one's efforts; "I acquired a passing knowledge of Chinese"; "Gain an understanding of international finance"; "win someone's confidence and friendship"
6. acquire - verb
· gain knowledge or skills; "She learned dancing from her sister"; "I learned Sanskrit"; "Children acquire language at an amazing rate"
7. acquire - verb
· gain through experience; "I acquired a strong aversion to television"; "Children must develop a sense of right and wrong"; "Dave developed leadership qualities in his new position"; "develop a passion for painting"
Hypernym(s): change
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In October 2011, I took a trip to Windsor, Ontario to help a friend competing in the first Fouad Abiad Open. Part of the event was a special IFBB Seminar hosted by Fouad Abiad and included Evan Centopani, Frank McGrath and Erin Stern. It was a rare opportunity to have an open Q&A from the IFBB Professionals and top contenders in the sport of bodybuilding.
Since it was such a rare opportunity, I decided to tape the seminar for future reference. Fast forward to the present and I am happy to share this video, with permission, to everyone wanting to learn from these amazing athletes. Enjoy!
Published on December 2, 2012
Filed under Sharing is caring


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Steve Jobs to iPhone Users: "No Flash for You!"
So much for native Flash support in iPhone. In an interview yesterday, Steve Jobs told reporters that Adobe's mobile Flash player "isn't good enough" for iPhone, shunning its possible inclusion in the product. He went on to make an oddly elusive and interesting comment, saying "There's this missing product in the middle,", hinting that Apple may have said "missing" product in development. What could it be? It won't be Silverlight, that much is certain.
You may be asking yourself why Adobe Flash support is important? Because nearly all forms of web based video from YouTube, Vimeo, Qik, and Brightcove, to name a few, are delivered or streamed in this format. Without it, such video content cannot be viewed directly. Apple developed a workaround for its YouTube anemic iPhone in the form of a homescreen client app that effectivetly siphons and converts Flash content into a digestible format, but users want a full on web video experience.
Will we ever see true native Flash support brought to iPhone, even if kicking and screaming? Read it and weep.
Have something to say about this story? Leave a comment! Need help with something else? Ask in our forums!
Reader comments
Steve Jobs to iPhone Users: "No Flash for You!"
The iPhone does not convert YouTube flash video to be playable on the iPhone. Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google, is also on the Apple board. The Steve used his influence with Eric to convince YouTube to transcode their video to H.264, which the iPhone, iPod Touch, and video-capable iPods play. This means that YouTube itself is feeding out H.264. It's too bad this isn't done for all YouTube video, because H.264 is a much better format than Flash. After all, HDTV (and thus HD-DVD and Blu-Ray) use H.264 for the bulk of the video available in those formats.
One possible reason for Steve's disdain for mobile Flash could have something to do with performance. In other incarnations of Flash on embedded devices, picture quality and performance were abysmal. If that is the case with iPhone as well, it's something the platform can do without. But there needs to be some portal for accessing rich internet content.
I was really startled when I saw the headline of the post -- I think that "white trash" is one of the most offensive terms in US English, managing to be both classist and implicitly racist -- and then I realized this is one of those blogs where quotes are not necessarily used to indicate what someone actually said. Whew.
Bobby, unfortunately I've heard that AT&T and Apple have an exclusive contract until 2010 or 2012, I can't remember which is correct, though I thought my AT&T sales rep said 5 years. That's would be 2007. Kent might be able to confirm or deny this info, as I'm only about 70% sure it's accurate.
AT&T isn't that bad. I've had generally the same service as my previous non-AT&T carrier, if not better in places outside my home area. A G3 iPhone is rumored to be coming this summer, but honestly, I love my iPhone as it is right now. The newer versions should be even better.
The iPhone truly IS almost everything I've ever wanted in a mobile phone, and Apple definitely hit close to the mark when they made it. Sure, there are more features I'd like to see, but I'm sure they will eventually come. Compared to my old old Palm or my Blackberry, my Iphone completely destroys them. Just get one!
The question is whether Apple will look to SVG as an alternative for Flash. SVG is lightweight, open standard, and is already supported by Firefox, Opera, and Safari.
I've speculated about this on my blog. I guess we'll have to wait and see what happens.
Opera Software
This is just a matter of time that we will all get a flash for our devices. While flash presents best user experience for average visitors It surely will be considered in some next gen devices.


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Man dies in stabbing
HUNTINGTON — Investigators have charged a Detroit man with first-degree murder in Wednesday morning's stabbing death of a local man.
The warrant charges Peter Martin King-Howard, 32, according to a press release issued Thursday morning. The incident killed Christopher A. Crawford, 38, of Huntington.
Anyone with information about King-Howard's whereabouts should call 911 or the Huntington Police Department tip line at 304-696-4444.
King-Howard had been staying with a woman in the 1900 block of Bungelow Avenue for the past six months. That home was searched Wednesday as part of the investigation.
The release said King-Howard should be considered armed.
This is a developing story. Check related link for more developments.
HUNTINGTON -- An argument inside a Ford Taurus turned deadly late Wednesday morning when one passenger stabbed another in West Huntington, investigators said.
Christopher A. Crawford, 38, of Huntington, died shortly after being taken to Cabell Huntington Hospital from several stab wounds he suffered during an altercation that took place at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Huntington Police Lt. John Williams said in a press release.
Authorities found Crawford unresponsive in the 600 block of 3rd Street West. Huntington Police Cpl. Gary Queen said authorities believe the car's driver picked up both passengers at a nearby restaurant, drove around in the area and suddenly stopped when the stabbing occurred.
The preliminary investigation indicated the attacker and Crawford were riding in the car together when an altercation broke out between them, during which Crawford was stabbed, Williams said.
He said investigators believe the incident to be drug related, and no arrests have been made.
The victim exited the vehicle and briefly walked around, leaving several pools of blood before he collapsed. Queen arrived to find the victim alive, but unresponsive.
Queen credited the vehicle's driver with alerting authorities. Cabell County 911 received her call at 10:51 a.m.
The driver and two occupants in an oncoming vehicle saw the assailant run from the scene, Queen said. The suspect fled down 61/2 alley prior to the arrival of officers, Williams said.
Officers were searching for a black male, 6-feet-2-inches tall, with a heavy build, said to be dark skinned and wearing a dark jacket, jeans and high-top tennis shoes, according to the release.
Anyone with information about the incident should call 911 or the Huntington Police Department tip line at 304-696-4444.
The driver, eventually interviewed by detectives, was visibly upset upon Queen's arrival, he said.
"She knows the victim well," he said. "All of this is just unnecessary -- to be in this situation and end up being killed."
Queen said Crawford and the driver had known each other for a long time, further describing them as classmates years ago. She knew much less about the attacker.
Queen did not disclose the nature of the parties' argument due to the ongoing investigation.
Police kept a portion of 3rd Street West closed into early afternoon Wednesday as a crime scene investigator documented more than 20 pieces of evidence, including several pools of blood and other items.
The West Huntington crime scene spanned from an alley between 6th and 7th avenues north to just beyond the parked Ford Taurus midway between the alley and 6th Avenue West.
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Gary Cohn: Today's temp workers are just as likely to be hired to fill blue collar jobs as office positions, with one major caveat: the new "temporary" hires who pick crops, pack vegetables or clean hotel rooms can work at those jobs for years at the same company — and with little or no advancement.
In Plain Sight: The Rise of Corporate Democrats in California
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Pension-Cutting Ballot Initiative Revealed
Gary Cohn: San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed and conservative activists are developing a ballot initiative to empower governments and voters in California to cut state and local public sector workers' pension guarantees — not just new hires, but those who have been working for years under existing pension agreements.
Promise Breakers: How Pew Trusts Is Helping to Gut Public Employee Pensions
Gary Cohn: While few budget experts would deny there are problems with funding public employee pensions, there is nothing resembling a consensus that supports the solutions proposed by Pew and the Arnold Foundation – whose warnings of imminent pension bankruptcy complement similar apocalyptic scenarios sketched by conservatives about Social Security's future.