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State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Assn. v. WolfeAnnotate this Case
State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Assn. v. Wolfe
919 P.2d 427
Case Number: SCBD-4006
Decided: 06/18/1996
Supreme Court of Oklahoma
STATE of Oklahoma ex rel. OKLAHOMA BAR ASSOCIATION, Complainant,
Earl W. WOLFE, Respondent.
As Corrected on Denial of Rehearing
July 16, 1996.
[919 P.2d 428]
¶0 Original Proceedings for Attorney Discipline.
Complainant Oklahoma Bar Association alleged professional misconduct by Respondent warranting disciplinary proceedings. Professional Responsibility Tribunal adopted Stipulated Findings of Facts and Agreed Conclusions of Law wherein Respondent stipulated to violating the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct including thirteen counts of violating Rule 8.1(b), four counts of violating Rule 1.15, eight counts of violating Rule 1.3, seven counts of violating Rule 1.4, and one count of violating Rule 3.1 and of violating the Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings including thirteen counts of violating Rule 5.2, one count of violating Rule 1.3, and four counts of violating Rule 1.4. Professional Responsibility Tribunal recommended two year suspension.
Dan Murdock, Janis Hubbard, Oklahoma Bar Association, Oklahoma City, for Complainant.
Craig Tweedy, Sapulpa, for Respondent.
[919 P.2d 429] HODGES, Justice.
¶1 The Oklahoma Bar Association (OBA) filed a complaint against Earl W. Wolfe (Wolfe or Respondent) on June 2, 1994, alleging seventeen counts of misconduct in violation of the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct, Okla. Stat. tit. 5, ch. 1, app. 3-A (1991) (hereinafter ORPC), and the Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings, Okla. Stat. tit. 5, ch. 1, app. 1-A (1991) (hereinafter RGDP). Respondent filed an answer on June 23, 1994. On August 2, 1994, the OBA filed an amended complaint alleging an additional seven violations of the ORPC and the RGDP. Not until September 20, 1994, did Respondent file an answer to the amended complaint and only after being ordered to respond to a Motion to Deem Allegations Admitted.
¶2 The Professional Responsibility Tribunal (PRT) held a hearing on March 1, 1995. The parties filed a stipulation of findings of facts and conclusions of law. Respondent moved for a continuance so he could provide psychological testimony. The PRT continued the hearing until May 9, 1995, at which time it took testimony. However, on May 9, Respondent failed to provide any psychological testimony.
¶3 The PRT adopted the stipulation of the facts and conclusions of law. After considering the facts, Respondent's previous discipline for violating the rules governing attorneys' conduct (a private reprimand and a six-month suspension), the OBA's recommendation that Respondent be disbarred, and Respondent's position that he should receive only probation, the PRT recommended a two year suspension.
¶4 On August 30, 1991, Respondent received a private reprimand from the Professional Responsibility Commission for negligently handling clients' matters, for failing to communicate with his clients, and for failing to respond to the OBA's grievance investigations. On June 15, 1993, this Court suspended the Respondent from the practice of law. State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Association v. Wolfe, 864 P.2d 335, 336 (Okla. 1993). Because a motion for rehearing was filed, the suspension did not become effective until November 1, 1993. The six-month suspension was based on Respondent's neglect of client matters and failure to respond to the OBA's grievance investigations.
¶5 Respondent has stipulated to twenty-four counts of violating the ORPC and the RGDP. Several of the counts occurred after the 1993 suspension and others were being investigated at the time of the suspension.
¶6 On thirteen occasions, Respondent failed to timely respond to the OBA requests for information concerning complaints against him. On several of those occasions, Respondent did not file a written response. Rather, his response was solicited during his deposition and only after the OBA subpoenaed him.
¶7 Three counts involve his trust account. Three times Respondent's checks on his trust fund were returned for insufficient funds. Respondent admits to having written a check on his trust account to purchase a business asset. One time, Respondent paid out more from his trust account on behalf of a client than he had received. Respondent deposited a $200 check in his trust account which he refunded from his operating account. When the check would not clear, he gave the client cash. Respondent deposited money from a client into his operating account to pay some of the client's expenses. Respondent did not pay the client's bills but paid himself.
¶8 On June 15, 1993, Respondent had not filed his income tax returns for 1990 and 1991. At the time the complaint was filed on June 2, 1994, Respondent had not filed his 1992 tax returns. The tax returns were not filed until a week before the hearing.
¶9 On seven occasions, Respondent neglected his client's cases. Respondent failed to respond to motions to dismiss and for summary judgment, failed to appear for hearings, failed to prosecute appeals, failed to file judgments, and failed to inform his clients of his suspension. Respondent's neglect resulted in the dismissal of his clients' cases. He either did not tell his client the case was [919 P.2d 430] dismissed or he told them he would refile the matter.
III. Due Process
A. Bias of the PRT
¶10 In Respondent's brief before this Court, he asks that he be granted a new hearing before a new panel. His requests rests on allegations of unfairness and bias. The allegations are not supported by references to the record. Rather, Respondent relies on the fact that the PRT would not continue the first hearing and that it would not allow him to present certain evidence concerning the "Bar and federal court insider causations for the depression and failures."
¶11 The complaint was filed on June 2, 1994, and the amended complaint was filed on August 2, 1994. Respondent did not file an answer to the amended complaint until September 20, 1994. Respondent filed an amended answer on March 2, 1995, a day after the first hearing was held. Even though nine months had lapsed since the complaint was filed and seven months since the amended complaint was filed, Respondent's attorney had only one witness, other than himself and the Respondent, present at the hearing and was unable to produce any of his exhibits. That witness was an investigator for the OBA. Respondent's attorney requested a continuance to present psychological testimony. The PRT continued the hearing until May 9, 1995, for the express purpose of allowing psychological testimony. However, Respondent failed to present any such testimony.
¶12 After considerable time had been spent by Respondent's attorney on the cause of Respondent's depression, the panel refused further testimony as repetitious. Respondent's attorney was allowed to make an offer of proof but failed to present any additional evidence of the OBA failures which he alleged caused Respondent's depression, or "wounded" state as the Respondent characterizes the problem.
¶13 In Respondent's brief he argues his exhibits 1 through 5 reveal evidence of abuses by the Professional Responsibility Commission and federal judges, as well as showing insider corruption at the OBA. The exhibits do not support these allegations. Exhibit 1 is a copy of this Court's opinion in Tweedy v. Oklahoma Bar Association, 624 P.2d 1049 (Okla. 1981). Exhibits 2, 3, 4, and 5 are documents filed by Craig Tweedy, Respondent's attorney, in a disciplinary matter against Tweedy. Nothing in these documents prove corruption in either the OBA or the federal courts.
¶14 Respondent did present the testimony of Steven R. Hickman who testified that the OBA was biased toward large firms and attorneys who practice with those firms. Mr. Tweedy and Respondent also testified that they perceived a bias by the OBA against certain attorneys and that there was insider corruption. None of these witnesses gave any facts which supported their allegations of bias or corruption. A showing of bias requires more than a showing that the trier of fact ruled adversely to you. Green v. Dorell, 969 F.2d 915, 919 (10th Cir. 1992), cert. denied, 507 U.S. 940, 113 S. Ct. 1336, 122 L. Ed. 2d 720 (1993). Therefore, Respondent's request for a new hearing before a new panel is denied.
B. Federal Court Suspension
¶15 Based on this Court's suspension, Judge Ellison suspended Respondent from practicing in the federal courts for the Northern District of Oklahoma on July 15, 1993. This Court's opinion suspending Respondent was issued on June 15, 1993 but, because of rehearing, did not become effective until November 1, 1993. Therefore, the federal court suspension was operative for thirteen months and two days. Respondent argues the extended suspension in federal court violated his due process.
¶16 A disciplinary proceeding before this Court is not the proper forum for addressing grievances against the federal bench's decisions. See RGDP at rule 1. The Tenth circuit Rules provide the avenue for complaints against federal judges. Rules of the Judicial Council of the Tenth circuit Governing Complaints of Judicial Misconduct or Disability, Preface, Rules 1-23 (1994). Further, appeals of suspensions from a district judge in the Northern District are to the remaining active [919 P.2d 431] judges of the district. Local Civil Rules of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma, Rule 1.4(E) (1995). The record does not show Respondent took any of the proper steps to appeal the suspension in the federal court.
IV. Mitigation
A. Equity
¶17 Respondent urges this Court to consider the equities in mitigation of damages. He asserts that the insider corruption within the OBA and within the federal bench helped bring about his wounded state of mind. However, Respondent failed to factually support his allegations of corruption, past or present, within the OBA, the General Counsel's Office, or the federal bench. This "defense" is without merit.
B. Merger
¶18 Respondent also argues the doctrine of merger prevents the consideration of discipline for the stipulated violations. Respondent's contention is elusive, but he appears to argue that the OBA was estopped from pursuing the present claims because they were merged with the previous suspension. The present violations could not have been previously presented because some of them had not occurred in time to be prosecuted with this complaint. See Stipulated Findings of Facts and Agreed Conclusions of Law §§ 12-25, 28-30, 37-38, 44-45, 55-60, 62-65, 67-72, 74-78, 85-87, 107-08, 114-116, 120-22, 124-126. Respondent unreasonably delayed the investigation of others through his failure to respond to the OBA's requests for information and for documents. Id. at §§ 32-35, 40-42, 47-53, 81-83, 90-98, 100-106, 110-11, 118, 123, 127. This Court will not allow attorneys to escape the consequences of their behavior by dilatory actions. Respondent's contrived defense of merger in this case is frivolous.
C. Lawyers Helping Lawyers
¶19 Respondent also argues in mitigation that the Assistant General Counsel should have referred him to Lawyers Helping Lawyers and, because of this failure, his discipline should be less. Although many times the OBA refers attorneys to Lawyers Helping Lawyers, it is not the obligation of the OBA to do so. The fact that the OBA did not refer Respondent to Lawyers Helping Lawyers is not a consideration in mitigation of discipline.
¶20 Even though Respondent became aware of the services offered by Lawyers Helping Lawyers on March 1, 1995, the only help he had sought at the time of the hearing on May 9, 1995, was supervision if this Court imposed a probation as discipline. He did not seek the help of Lawyers Helping Lawyers as a means of correcting his problems.
V. Enhancement
¶21 Respondent has a history of ignoring responsibilities associated with the privilege of practicing law. He has twice before been disciplined for dilatory conduct in handling client matters and failing to respond to inquiries from the OBA. When Respondent was previously suspended from the practice of law, the Court noted: "Wolfe, even now, does not recognize the seriousness of his misconduct." This apparently has not changed although Respondent argues that he now sees the error of his ways.
¶22 Respondent vehemently argues for probation even though the violations of the rules governing attorney conduct presently before this Court are more abundant and at least as serious as when he was suspended. While arguing the cause of the violations was depression from which he has recovered, Respondent continues his dilatory behavior. As recently as the hearings on this complaint, Respondent was acting in an irresponsible manner. He failed to have his exhibits and witnesses available at the first hearing. At the second hearing, he failed to present any psychological testimony which was his stated reason for a continuance. Respondent has continually ignored his responsibilities to respond to OBA inquires.
¶23 Additionally, Respondent's brief before this Court is replete with misrepresentations. He states: "The record shows facts and appearances of key appointees to the Professional Responsibility Committee ("PRC") protecting the wrongful acts of select lawyers, clients and others, without awareness [919 P.2d 432] by other PRC members." Although containing serious allegations of "insider corruption", the record does not point to even one instance of protection of select lawyers.
¶24 Respondent represents: "No grievance charged post-suspension failures." Counts XIII and XVII both complain of violations occurring after Respondent's suspension. Further, Counts XV, XVI, XVIII, XX, XXI, XXII, and XXIV contain violations occurring after Respondent's suspension. Respondent stipulated to the truth of these allegations before the PRT.
¶25 There is little difference in Respondent's previous behavior for which he was suspended and his behavior in the present matter. Respondent still seeks to avoid the consequences of his behavior by placing blame on the PRT, the OBA, and the federal bench for the Northern District of Oklahoma. As in the previous suspension, Respondent has made allegations about the OBA which are unsupported by facts, habitually failed to responded to OBA investigations, and failed to adequately represent his client's. Additionally, in the present matter, he has failed to timely file tax returns and has commingled his operating funds with his clients' trust funds. There is no indication that the previous suspension or any subsequent events have been successful in altering Respondent's dilatory manner.
VI. Discussion
¶26 After a de novo review of the record, the Court agrees with the PRT findings that Respondent has violated rules 8.1(b), 1.15, 1.3, 1.4, and 3.1 of the ORPC and rules 5.2, 1.3, and 1.4 of the RGDP. We also find Respondent violated rule 9.1 of the RGDP. The PRT recommends a two-year suspension, the OBA seeks disbarment, and Respondent argues for a probation. It is this Court's obligation to independently determine the proper discipline. State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Miskovsky, 832 P.2d 814, 817 (Okla. 1992).
¶27 The purpose of discipline is preservation of the integrity of the bar and courts and protection of the public. State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Peveto, 620 P.2d 392, 395 (Okla. 1980). "Part of [this] purpose is deterrence of like behavior by both the respondent and other members of the Bar." State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Rozin, 824 P.2d 1127, 1129 (Okla. 1991). A private reprimand and a six-month suspension have failed to correct Respondent's dilatory behavior.
¶28 "The attorney-client relationship is one of the highest trust and confidence. This relationship requires that an attorney's dealing with his client must be characterized by the utmost candor and fairness." State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Association v. Hatcher, 452 P.2d 150, 154 (Okla. 1969). "[A]cting promptly in pending matters and communicating with a client . . . is a mandatory obligation imposed upon licensed practitioners." State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Evans, 880 P.2d 333, 339 (Okla. 1994). Not only has Respondent violated this trust by neglecting his client's matters and commingling funds, he has disregarded attempts by the OBA to investigate his failures. Further, he failed to timely file his tax returns and did not do so until the week before the hearing.
¶29 The violations in this matter are similar to, but more extensive than, those in Evans. The respondent in Evans (1) failed to provide his clients with adequate representation, (2) neglected client matters, (3) did not keep his clients informed, and (4) failed to timely respond to OBA inquiries. In imposing a two-year-and-one-day suspension, this Court noted:
A lawyers' license is a certificate of professional fitness to deal with the public as a legal practitioner. Public confidence in the practitioner is essential to the proper functioning of the profession. A lawyer's misconduct adversely reflects on the entire Bar because it exhibits a lack of commitment to the clients' causes, to the courts, and to other members of the Bar.
Evans, 880 P.2d at 339. Respondent has repeatedly shown a lack of commitment to his clients' causes and to the courts.
¶30 On de novo review, we find Respondent has violated the ORPC and the RGDP. We believe the proper discipline is a suspension from the practice of law for two years and one day. See RGDP at rule 11.1. A suspension for longer than two years requires an [919 P.2d 433] applicant for readmission to file a petition with the Supreme Court with affidavits showing the applicant's activities and places of residence since the suspension and that the applicant has not engaged in the practice of law. Id. at rule 11.1(a),(d).
¶31 Additionally, the applicant must show the Client Security Fund has been reimbursed for all funds expended because of the applicant's behavior. Id. at rule 11.1(b). The applicant must pay the expenses of the proceeding for removal of the suspension. Id. at rule 11.1(c). The applicant has the burden, by clear and convincing evidence, to show if allowed to practice law, the applicant's conduct will conform to the standards required of members of the Bar. Id. at rule 11.4. The PRT must make a finding that the applicant has the competency and learning to practice law. Id. at rule 11.5. A member of the Bar who has been suspended from the practice of law has almost as onerous burden for removal of the suspension as someone who has been disbarred does for reinstatement. See id. at rules 11.1-11.5.
¶32 Because of Respondent's continual failures, the safeguards provided by the reinstatement procedures after a suspension of more than two years are necessary to accomplish the goal of protecting the public. As a condition of reinstatement to the practice of law, Respondent must comply with the requirements of the Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings. Within thirty days from the date this opinion becomes final, Respondent shall pay the costs incurred in this proceeding in the amount of $4,163.91.
¶33 Respondent, Earl W. Wolfe, is hereby suspended for two years and one day from the practice of law to begin on the day this opinion becomes final. Respondent must timely pay the costs incurred in this proceeding as a condition of reinstatement.
¶35 ALMA WILSON, C.J., KAUGER, V.C.J., and LAVENDER, HARGRAVE and WATT, JJ., concur.
¶36 OPALA, J., dissents.
¶37 SIMMS and SUMMERS, JJ., not participating.
KAUGER, Vice Chief Justice, with whom WATT, Justice, joins, concurring:
¶1 I concur in the majority's decision to suspend the respondent, Earl W. Wolfe (Wolfe/attorney), from the practice of law for a period of two years and one day. The attorney's repeated offenses of the disciplinary rules warrant severe action geared to redress the wrongs committed.
¶2 I write separately to dispel the misperception created by the dissent that there is a revolving door policy for attorneys who are suspended from the practice of law for a period in excess of two years. Rather, the statistics demonstrate that this Court has been a rigorous door keeper and that we exercise our responsibility in disciplinary proceedings by inquiring into and gauging the lawyer's continued fitness to practice law, with a view to safeguarding the interest of the public, of the courts, and of the legal profession. Discipline is imposed to maintain these goals rather than to punish the attorney.
¶3 A suspension from the practice of law for a period of two years and one day is tantamount to disbarment in that the suspended attorney must follow the same procedures for readmittance as would a disbarred counter-part.
". . . These persons are first mustered out of the practice and then quickly brought right back into it. Readmission quests that follow suspensions (for a period of two years and one day or longer) have met with an extraordinarily high incidence of success. . . ." (Emphasis in original.)
The hard core numbers associated with two-year-and-one-day suspensions simply do not support the argument that there is a "pattern" of dealing with disciplined attorneys which brings disrepute on the legal profession.
¶4 Before this Court may impose discipline upon an attorney, the charges must be established by clear and convincing evidence.
1 State ex rel. v. Bolton, 904 P.2d 597, 602 (Okla. 1995), State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Farrant, 867 P.2d 1279, 1281 (Okla. 1994); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Johnson, 863 P.2d 1136, 1144-45 (Okla. 1993); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Raskin, 642 P.2d 262, 267 (Okla. 1982).
2 Rule 11.1, 5 O.S. 1991, Ch. 1, App. 1-A, Rules of Disciplinary Proceedings, provides in pertinent part:
"A person whose name has been stricken from the Roll of Attorneys for non-payment of dues, or who has been suspended from the practice of law for a period of longer than two (2) years or disbarred, or who has resigned membership in the Association, may be readmitted to the practice of law only through the following procedures. . ."
3 Rule 11.4, 5 O.S. 1991, Ch. 1, App. 1-A, Rules of Disciplinary Proceedings, provides:
"An applicant for reinstatement must establish affirmatively that, if readmitted or if the suspension from practice is removed, the applicant's conduct will conform to the high standards required of a member of the Bar. The severity of the original offense and the circumstances surrounding it shall be considered in evaluating an application for reinstatement. The burden of proof, by clear and convincing evidence, in all such reinstatement proceedings shall be on the applicant. An applicant seeking such reinstatement will be required to present stronger proof of qualifications than one seeking admission for the first time. The proof presented must be sufficient to overcome the Supreme Court's former judgment adverse to the applicant. Feelings of sympathy toward the applicant must be disregarded. If applicable, restitution, or the lack thereof, by the applicant to an injured party will be taken into consideration by the Trial Panel on an application for reinstatement. Further, if applicable, the Trial Panel shall satisfy itself that the applicant complied with Rule 9.1 of these Rules."
Matter of Reinstatement of Wright, 907 P.2d 1060, 1062 (Okla. 1995); Matter of Reinstatement of Moss, 848 P.2d 564 (Okla. 1993).
4 State ex rel. Brierly, SCBD No. 4072 (Suspended March 26, 1996); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Busch, SCBD No. 4068 (Suspended March 12, 1996); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Association v. Adams, 895 P.2d 701, 706-07 (Okla. 1995) [Suspended February 28, 1995, for failure to prosecute cross-petition in action brought against clients, failure to file response for motion for summary judgment, and failure to keep clients informed of status of case by attorney who also had other pending grievances.]; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Evans, 880 P.2d 333, 339 (Okla. 1994) [Suspended May 3, 1994, for failure to provide client with competent representation, lack of diligence and promptness in representing clients, failing to keep clients informed and failure to comply with rules governing disciplinary proceedings. Authored by the dissenter.]; Matter of Reinstatement of Smith, 871 P.2d 426, 428 (Okla. 1994) [Suspended March 25, 1986, for federal conviction on seventeen counts involving mail fraud, conspiracy to defraud, willfully making and subscribing to false tax returns and willful failure to disclose financial interest over foreign bank accounts. Attorney petitioned for reinstatement on February 8, 1994 and on April 13, 1993. Because the attorney could not show clear and convincing evidence that reinstatement was warranted, readmission was denied.]; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Kessler, 818 P.2d 463, 467-68 (Okla. 1991) [Suspended July 30, 1991, for commingling of client funds, use of client's money for purposes other than those authorized, and misrepresentation to trial court that money had been used for its intended purpose. The attorney was ultimately barred from the practice of law by this Court in State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Kessler, 895 P.2d 713, 719 (Okla. 1995)]; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Wright, 792 P.2d 1171-72 (Okla. 1990) [Suspended May 8, 1990, because of felony conviction for distributing cocaine. A petition for reinstatement was filed in December 1992, and reinstatement was granted in Matter of Reinstatement of Wright, 907 P.2d 1060, 1067 (Okla. 1995). This Court found that the attorney presented overwhelming evidence of rehabilitation and that he would in the future conform to the high standards required of a member of the Oklahoma Bar.]; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Moss, SCBD 3536, 3581 [Suspended May 8, 1990, for mishandling client funds - reinstated February 23, 1993, a suspension of almost three years. See, Matter of Reinstatement of Moss, 848 P.2d 564 (Okla. 1993). Attorney presented stronger proof of his qualifications than is required of someone seeking admission for the first time.]; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Reeves, SCBD 3300 [Suspended February 2, 1987].
5 State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Wright, see note 3, supra; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Kessler, see note 4, supra; Matter of Reinstatement of Moss, see note 3, supra.
6 Matter of Reinstatement of Moss, see note 3, supra.
7 The vote on this applicant, Harvey Russell Wright, was five to four - with the dissenter concurring in the majority opinion. See, State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Wright, note 3, supra.
8 State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Kessler, see note 4, supra.
9 Matter of Reinstatement of Smith, see note 4, supra.
10 Rule 6.12, Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings, 5 O.S. 1991, Ch. 1, App. 1-A, provides in pertinent part:
". . . (c) To warrant a finding against the respondent in a contested case, the charge or charges must be established by clear and convincing evidence, and at least two of the members of the Trial Panel must concur in the findings."
State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Farrant, see note 1, supra; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Gasaway, 810 P.2d 826, 830 (Okla. 1991); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Braswell, 663 P.2d 1228, 1232 (Okla. 1983).
11 State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Farrant, see note 1, supra; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Gasaway, see note 10, supra; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. McMillian, 770 P.2d 893.8. 894 (Okla. 1989).
12 State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Farrant, see note 1 at 1284, supra: State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Gasaway, see note 10 at 830-31, supra; State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Stubblefield, 766 P.2d 979, 982 (Okla. 1988).
13 State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Bolton, 904 P.2d 597, 601 (Okla. 1995); State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Ass'n v. Farrant, see note 1 at 1284, supra.
[919 P.2d 435] OPALA, Justice, dissenting from today's sanction of suspension.
¶1 When overfocused (which occurs all-too frequently), collegiality-bred concerns for some residue of salvageable characteristics in offending legal practitioners - who, like this respondent, are rightly to be viewed as deeply scarred
¶2 On June 2, 1994 the Oklahoma Bar Association [OBA or Bar] charged Earl W. Wolfe [Wolfe or respondent] with seventeen counts of misconduct in violation of the Oklahoma [919 P.2d 436] Rules of Professional Conduct [ORPC]
¶3 At the March 1, 1995 PRT hearing the lawyers agreed upon the dispositive findings of fact and conclusions of law. Wolfe's defense included allegations that he was psychologically impaired. Although respondent had consulted a psychologist before the hearing, that professional was not present to testify nor was a psychological evaluation offered in evidence. The PRT granted Wolfe a continuance to afford him an opportunity to present his evaluation. When the hearing resumed, Wolfe again failed to provide an expert assessment of his psychological infirmities.
¶4 The PRT adopted the stipulated facts and conclusions of law. The OBA urged that Wolfe be disbarred; respondent asked for probation. The PRT recommended a two-year suspension. This court imposes today a two-year-and-one-day suspension.
¶5 Wolfe's psychological problems are mirrored in his violations of the standard of professional conduct binding on Oklahoma lawyers. His earlier misconduct resulted in a private reprimand in 1991 and a six-month suspension from practice in 1993.
¶6 Wolfe has admitted failing to (1) respond to dismissal and summary judgment motions, (2) appear for hearings, (3) prosecute appeals, (4) file judgments and (5) inform his clients of his earlier suspension from practice. Three of the current counts against Wolfe involve his trust account. Checks, drawn on his trust account, were returned for insufficient funds. He used one client's money to purchase a business asset. He also made personal use of a client's funds (paid to him in trust to offset abstracting fees and court costs) by depositing them into his firm's operating account. In one instance Wolfe failed to respond to a summary judgment motion. Judgment went to the defendant and Wolfe then appealed. When he failed to prosecute the appeal, the court dismissed the cause as abandoned.
¶7 Since 1991 Wolfe has "felt overwhelmed" and unable to manage his practice's growth. He has demonstrated a clear proclivity for not meeting court deadlines and has failed to communicate with his clients on a regular basis. His conduct has also evinced paranoia in dealing with the OBA. He believes the OBA (and two federal judges) mistreated him and are to blame for his "bad attitude." This mindset, he explains, was reflected in his persistent silence when he was called upon to respond to the OBA grievances.
¶8 Wolfe
¶9 During the disciplinary process, respondent made no independent effort to contact a psychologist.
¶10 The current disciplinary system fails to address recidivism problems. It does not look beneath the surface of recidivist lawyers' infractions to assay their underlying behavioral causes. Quite often the lawyer's unprofessional conduct is caused by psychological problems. When confronted by a pattern of seriously aberrant psychological behavior, as that unfolded by this case, the OBA must require psychological testing for a more profound explanation and understanding of the lawyer's obvious or admitted problems.
¶11 My concern today is that, without having Wolfe's thorough psychological evaluation as he enters upon his period of disciplinary suspension, neither the OBA nor this court will, when later passing on his readmission quest, be able to make a critical assessment of progress, if any, he might have made while professionally inactive. The views of the two concurring justices plainly misperceive my dissent's thrust. My message delivers neither a scathing critique nor a condemnation of the court. Its sole objective is to call for an in-depth reexamination of the process by which recidivist lawyers, who suffer from substance abuse or from psychological disorders, are sanctioned. Whether inadvertently or otherwise, my appeal for reform is mis-characterized as the voice of a "nattering nabob of negativism."
¶12 Wolfe represents the unique world of disturbed and deeply-scarred people who require legal treatment different from that accorded him today. A pre-sanction evaluation of the lawyer's psychological status should be a conditio sine qua non. This lawyer, if ever reinstated, will be returning to his profession without giving the Bar a meaningful [919 P.2d 438] comparative insight into his before-and-after psychological profile.
¶13 Much like the Bar, the medical profession is concerned with the ongoing competence of practicing physicians. In response to the felt presence of high levels of stress, depression, and substance abuse (above that present in the general population), state medical boards have taken a proactive approach to dealing with impaired doctors.10
¶14 The Bar's Lawyers Helping Lawyers Committee [LHL or committee] is a program designed to (a) assist, through direct contact, lawyers impaired by substance abuse, depression, stress and other practice-related malaise and (b) assure the public of competent legal representation. We have taken judicial notice of the committee's existence and praised its contribution as an effective tool for aiding a lawyer's recovery from chemical dependence, stress and depression.
¶15 With no mental evaluation to draw from, I am called upon today to cast a vote by shooting in the dark and guessing that Wolfe would improve or be cured during his suspension. In this posture, I prefer to avoid excessive preoccupation with purely human rescue concerns and err on the side of public safety by opting for the respondent's disbarment. The sanction I prefer would prevent him from launching a reinstatement quest for at least five years. Should he seek re-entry, the five-year, minimum post-disbarment period of mandated professional inactivity would be well-nigh essential for tracking and identifying Wolfe's behavioral patterns. Without the aid of a pre-sanction psychological evaluation based on testing that would diagnose the root causes of respondent's problems, the mild discipline chosen by the court is far too risky to satisfy my concerns for public safety.
¶16 The universe of case law is ill-suited for demonstrating the system's efficacy to deal with recidivism among the class of lawyers who fall under the rubric of deeply-scarred multiple offenders. Identification of the problem is currently more elusive than the cure. While the OBA does keep an individual lawyer's discipline record, it does not compile statistics on the number of practicing recidivist lawyers, their eventual improvement or the progressive deterioration of their deviant pattern. Currently, no one meaningfully tracks the data that would enable us to pass upon the success or failure of the present-day system of addressing recidivism.
¶17 No attempt was made by the OBA to secure a complete psychological evaluation of the respondent before the PRT made its recommendation. As the applicable procedure stands today, Wolfe will need no psychological evaluation to reenter the profession. Our current policy clearly fails to ensure that only unimpaired lawyers are sent back into practice.
[919 P.2d 439] B
¶18 I would counsel that for offenders like Wolfe two psychological evaluations be required - one in the pre-sanction stage of the process (before the PRT makes its recommendation) and another at the time of reinstatement quest. A comparison of the recidivist lawyer's expert assessments would be invaluable to this court. These evaluations should be mandatory when it becomes apparent that a lawyer's fitness to practice is affected by destructive psychological forces. Some form of such disorder is admittedly present in the respondent. It went undiagnosed and untreated, escaping expert assessment, even though the record demonstrates an undenied pattern of disturbance. The court sanctions Wolfe without any meaningful insight into his extensive psychological disability. When a respondent acknowledges the presence of a psychological problem, the PRT should allow adequate time for the lawyer to contact a counseling center suitable for the affliction's treatment and secure LHL's supervision. The disturbed respondent must be willing to admit that a problem exists and that help is needed. It is not the treatment arm's responsibility to make the initial contact; that should be left to the willing respondent. In State ex rel. Oklahoma Bar Association v. Donnelly,
¶19 The solution I propose (disbarment) would enable the OBA better to assess respondent's rehabilitation progress and fitness before his reentry into practice. Its considered evaluation of the respondent's eligibility for reinstatement would cover an appreciably longer period than that allowed by today's suspension for two years and one day. My solution is significantly influenced by fear of the unknown. On this record, no one should even dare speculate what Wolfe's present psychological problems may be, much less predict the shape they might take when he knocks on the Bar's door for end-of-suspension re-admission.
I would not let this lawyer make a disciplinary exit from the Bar without leaving in its files a much-needed trail in the form of a comprehensive professional assessment of his present psychic affliction. Neither would I allow his reinstatement to take place before a comparative study is made of his condition between the time of the discipline's administration and the temporal point of his reinstatement quest. Because the Bar has no policy for requiring deeply-scarred lawyers, like the respondent, to undergo a meaningful evaluation of their professional disability, I would err on the side of public safety by disbarring Wolfe and putting a distance of a full five-year-long period between his exit and the possibility of reentry.
1 By "deeply scarred" I mean that these persons have been affected by substance abuse or by destructive psychological forces.
2 The OBA's complaint listed violations of Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct, 5 O.S. 1991 ch. 1, app. 3-A, Rule 1.3, 1.4, 1.15, 3.1, 8.1(b) and 8.4(b) & (c).
3 The OBA listed in its complaint violations of Rules Governing Disciplinary Proceedings, 5 O.S. 1991 ch. 1, app. 1-A, Rules 1.3, 1.4, 5.2 and 9.1.
4 On June 15, 1993 this court suspended Wolfe from the practice or law for six months, from November 1993 to February 1994, for his neglect of clients' business and failure to respond to the OBA's grievance investigations. State ex rel. Okl. Bar Ass'n v. Wolfe, Okl., 864 P.2d 335, 336 (1993).
5 See PRT hearing transcript, pp. 279-86 and 330-33.
6 See PRT hearing transcript, pp. 61-70 and 214-15.
7 See PRT hearing transcript, pp. 101-02.
8 Wolfe received counseling in 1991 and 1992 when he was executive vice president and general counsel of Heart to Heart Ministries, a Christian counseling service. He talked with one of its counselors and its minister periodically about his personal difficulties.
9 Speech by Spiro T. Agnew, Vice President of the United States of America, in San Diego, Cal. (Sept. 11, 1970).
10 George M. Bohigian, MD et al., Substance Abuse and Dependence in Physicians: An Overview of the Effects of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, 91 Mo. Med. 233 (1994). State medical boards are taking different approaches to solving the problem of substance abuse by physicians. Some boards offer treatment (instead of public disciplinary action) to willing physicians who complete the full program. The Georgia Medical Board developed a booklet identifying and outlining ten "problem" categories, including mental disorder, behaviorally disruptive pattern, substance-related disorder, and cognitive or other problems associated with age. A committee on physician impairment of the Federation of State Medical Boards recommended that when the proposed policy is adopted it should include notice (to the state board) if affected physicians leave treatment against the provider's medical advice. Rebecca Voelka, Finding Effective Treatment for Impaired Physicians, 272 JAMA 1238 (1994).
11 State ex rel. Okl. Bar Ass'n v. Donnelly, Okl., 848 P.2d 543, 545 n. 3 (1992); State ex rel. Okl. Bar Ass'n v. Carpenter, Okl., 863 P.2d 1123, 1128 n. 7 (1993).
12 State ex rel. Okl. Bar Ass'n v. Hogue, Okl., 898 P.2d 153, 155 (1995).
13 See supra note 11 and accompanying text.


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Employee Assistance Program
Washington State Department of Enterprise Services | EAP
- State Toll Free Number: 1-877-313-4455 (TDD/TTY users, please call via WA Relay at 711)
- EAP Website
- BPPM 60.86 Employee Assistance Program
- EAP Work-Life Resources Web Portal
(Contact HRS for Organization code)
- Monthly Online EAP Orientation
Learn about the benefits of the EAP and how to access services.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling and referral services to WSU faculty, administrative professional, and classified staff. Employees can self-refer or may be directed to the EAP by a supervisor or manager. Employees may use release time to utilize EAP services. EAP is not intended to be a long-term counseling service (see BPPM 60.86), but rather to provide initial assessment, consultation, and referral. EAP services typically will not be more than three sessions per specific individual concern.
The EAP assists in identifying, managing, and resolving personal and work-related issues that may affect job performance or quality of life issues. The EAP provides counseling, education, and consultation services to improve job performance, worker health, and the wellbeing of the employee. Issues which may be directed to the EAP include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Anger management
- Anxiety
- Conflicts at work
- Depression
- Domestic Violence
- Emotional and/or psychological issues
- Financial
- Grief and loss
- Job performance
- Parenting issues
- Relationship and family concerns
- Stress
- Substance Abuse
In addition to individual services, the EAP provides crisis counseling for groups of employees who suffer from a shared workplace crisis such as death/illness of a colleague, inappropriate workplace behavior, or any circumstance that may adversely affect the working group.
The EAP also offers free legal consultation and financial counseling services, as well as a comprehensive work-life website that includes resources, articles, webinars and e-learnings, financial calculators, legal documents, and self-search provider databases for eldercare, childcare, and more. Employees can access all of these services any time by visiting the web portal (contact HRS for the Organization code at firstname.lastname@example.com or 509-335-4521). A legal or financial counselor can also be reached any time by calling 1-888-728-1408.
Evaluation and Referral Services
Work-Life Website & Legal and Financial Consultation (Contact HRS for Organization code at email@example.com or 509-335-4521)
Sign up for an Online EAP Orientation to learn more about the services provided.

subset: commoncrawl


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Secretive, mystical rituals and ceremonies should only be conducted by those who have the proper skill and knowledge. And in the Women's Pagan Ritual Robe, you will look like a woman vested with all the power needed to work her own mystical rituals. This simple robe is made from 100% natural woven cotton. It is a medium-weight fabric that lends this garment a measure of strength, while allowing it to remain extremely comfortable to wear. This garment is available in four distinctive colors, black, red, white, and green. An intricate and handcrafted medieval-styled trim decorates the neckline and front of this attractive robe. The full-length sleeves are comfortably loose-fitted. They are not needlessly baggy or spacious. This robe is designed to be long and loose. A Pagan Ritual Robe is typically hard to achieve, and only those well-vested in the mystical or spiritual arts are only capable of earning one. Add this garment to your medieval repertoire of tricks and wear it with pride at your next meeting of like-minded individuals.
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. We know that when you buy online, you expect a great deal and we feel that you deserve it which is why we offer our Price Match Guarantee. If you find the same product that we sell somewhere else on the internet for less than what we sell it for, we will try to either beat that price or match it - GUARANTEED. The product must be in new condition and have the same model number, manufacturer and be posted on the competitor's website. We strive to give you the very best customer service with the lowest priced, quality products.
For Low Price Guarantee requests, just contact our agents via:
We reserves the right to change, deny, or alter this policy without notice.
Contact us


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Tell us a little bit about yourself
Why JCU?
Study areas
- Arts and Social Sciences
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Course level
By campus
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Courses Study areas Environmental Management About Environmental Management
About Environmental Management
Unique learning environment
JCU students develop strong practical skills. Applying theory into practice, students access a uniquely biodiverse World Heritage Area, the Wet Tropics, dry savannahs, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Connect with the best
Learn from the experts. JCU students access expert lecturers who integrate their world-class* research into the classroom.
Build a distinct skill set
JCU students are highly adaptable. Studying a unique combination of specialist study areas, students develop strong applied management skills.
Top marks all round
Independently awarded five stars for student support^, JCU graduates are ready today for tomorrow.
Play a lead role in creating a brighter future for the Tropics by understanding how we can live more sustainably and harmoniously with the environment.
Learn how natural environments function and change over time and how societies can conserve, use and modify these environments and the resources they provide. A degree in the environmental science and management fields will prepare you to address environmental issues now and into the future, including climate change, natural disaster management, conservation, natural resource management, and land use.
Environmental Science and Management involves understanding and finding solutions to contemporary environmental challenges.


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David Bowie's 1967 debut album for Decca finally receives the Deluxe Edition treatment. Disc One features the original stereo and mono mixes of the album stunningly remastered by Peter Mew and Tris Penna at Abbey Road Studios . This is the first time that the mono mix has been available in any format since the late '60s and is obviously the first time on CD. Disc Two features the singles, unreleased stereo mixes, the legendary unreleased single "London Bye Ta-Ta" and 5 Previously Unreleased tracks recorded for John Peel's Top Gear programme in 1967. All in all, there are a total of 53 tracks over the two CDs with 26 appearing on CD for the very first time! Sleeve notes by Tris Penna and Kevin Cann.
Audio CD (April 6, 2010)
Original Release Date: April 6, 2010
Format: Deluxe Edition
Label: Decca
David Bowie's debut is the last of his albums to receive a deluxe reissue, perhaps because it would seem to be the last anybody would want expanded to a double-disc set. Roundly dismissed as theatrical twaddle in the vein of Anthony Newley, the 1967 album has its share of period charm, caught somewhere between the psychedelic swing and stuffy West End musicals — not quite the formula for major pop hits in 1967, nor is it necessarily an indication of what Bowie would later do, but it's a fascinating, highly enjoyable debut, particularly in this generous 53-track, double-disc deluxe edition. The first disc contains the original stereo and mono mixes of David Bowie — the latter not easily available in decades, offering mixes that are sometimes quite different — while the second collects all the alternates and ephemera of the era: non-LP singles and single versions, sometimes drastically different, of album tracks, unreleased stereo mixes and alternate takes along with Bowie's first-ever BBC session, also dating from 1967. If the album proper does sometimes seem a little constrained, too successfully appealing to the middlebrow, the music on the second disc is wildly lively and often much hipper: it has Bowie's cheerfully silly "The Laughing Gnome," which spins Syd Barrett whimsy further toward children, and it has his first great songs, the hazy swirling "In the Heat of the Morning" and fizzy "London Bye Ta-Ta," it has the snappier single version of "Love You Till Tuesday," along with that excellent first BBC session, which is muscular in a way the studio sessions aren't. Then again, those highly produced original sessions — featuring such British studio stalwarts as Big Jim Sullivan and sometimes engineered by Gus Dudgeon or produced by Tony Visconti — are quite appealing, exemplary examples of the studio sound of London in the '60s. And in a way, having so much of these formative recordings in one place winds up enhancing the stature of David Bowie's debut rather than diminishing it: sure, he's gangly and awkward, too indebted to his peers, creating music too stuffy for the kids and too odd for adults, but it's possible to hear the first real flowering of his talent here.
BBC Review
.No matter how many substandard albums David Bowie has released in the latter part of his career, his eponymous 1967 debut album has always been perceived as the slightest long-player in his catalogue. For some, then, this deluxe version of David Bowie – expanded to two CDs, with lengthy booklet notes – will be almost laughably inappropriate.
As well as legendary lost song London Bye Ta-Ta and contemporaneous non-album Bowie material like the swirling Let Me Sleep Beside You and novelty song The Laughing Gnome, disc two virtually gives us the album we've heard twice over (stereo and – first time on CD – mono) on disc one in a different permutation: single and radio session versions and previously unreleased mixes. All very comprehensive, but aesthetically too much even if the parent album was the greatest ever made.
David Bowie shows talent, but one very much unrefined. Within a musical style that is baroque pop crossed with northern brass band crossed with music hall, parping horns and brisk drums decorate pretty but largely unmemorable melodies. The lyrics are above average – thoughtful character studies – but hardly deep, sort of toytown Eleanor Rigbys. Highlights are the orchestrated, melancholy Sell Me a Coat, Rubber Band – an old-time musician's misty memories set to a marching beat – and There Is a Happy Land, a shimmering musical adaptation of Keith Waterhouse's novel of childhood. Everything is agreeable but nothing truly classic and the relentless whimsy gets tiresome.
What is extraordinary throughout, though, is a vision and individualism remarkable for a 20-year-old. Young Bowie has a penchant for putting himself in the heads of the old and the unhip, something very unfashionable in the insurrectionist 60s. Meanwhile, he is so determined to stick to his then-daring resolution to sing in his own English accent that in the bopping Love You Til Tuesday he spurns the opportunity to rhyme "branch" and "romance" that an American inflection would offer him. As for the closer Please Mr Gravedigger, its sneeze-punctuated vocal and lightning-and-footsteps backing make it as much radio play as song.
David Bowie is hardly an essential listen but historically interesting as unmistakably the entrée of someone with a future. This chance of reacquaintance enables us to acknowledge that it deserves a marginally higher place in the pecking order. Let's see… Let's Dance – move aside.
01. Uncle Arthur
02. Sell Me A Coat (Original Version)
03. Rubber Band
04. Love You Till Tuesday
05. There Is A Happy Land
06. We Are Hungry Men
07. When I Live My Dream (1967 Version)
08. Little Bombardier
09. Silly Boy Blue
10. Come And Buy My Toys
11. Join The Gang
12. She's Got Medals
13. Maid Of Bond Street
14. Please Mr. Gravedigger
15. Uncle Arthur (Mono)
16. Sell Me A Coat (Mono)
17. Rubber Band (Mono)
18. Love You Till Tuesday (Mono)
19. There Is A Happy Land (Mono)
20. We Are Hungry Men (Mono)
21. When I Live My Dream (Mono)
22. Little Bombardier (Mono)
23. Silly Boy Blue (Mono)
24. Come And Buy My Toys (Mono)
25. Join The Gang (Mono)
26. She's Got Medals (Mono)
27. Maid Of Bond Street (Mono)
28. Please Mr. Gravedigger (Mono)
01. Rubber Band (Single Version)
02. The London Boys (Mono)
03. The Laughing Gnome
04. The Gospel According To Tony Day (Mono)
05. Love You Till Tuesday (Single Version)
06. Did You Ever Have A Dream
07. When I Live My Dream (Single Version - Mono)
08. Let Me Sleep Beside You
09. Karma Man
10. London, Bye, Ta Ta
11. In The Heat Of The Morning
12. The Laughing Gnome (Single Version - 2010 Stereo Mix)
13. The Gospel According To Tony Day (Single Version - 2010 Stereo Mix)
14. Did You Ever Have A Dream (Single Version - 2010 Stereo Mix)
15. Let Me Sleep Beside You
16. Karma Man (Stereo Mix)
17. In The Heat Of The Morning (Stereo Mix)
18. When I'm Five Love You Till Tuesday (Soundtrack Version - Mono)
19. Ching-A-Ling (Full Length Version Stereo Mix)
20. Sell Me A Coat Remix - Mono
21. Love You Till Tuesday (Bbc "Top Gear" 18/12/67 Mono)
22. When I Live My Dream (Bbc "Top Gear" 18/12/67 Mono)
23. Little Bombardier (Bbc "Top Gear" 18/12/67 Mono)
24. Silly Boy Blue (Bbc "Top Gear" 18/12/67 Mono)
25. In The Heat Of The Morning (Bbc "Top Gear" 18/12/67 Mono)


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Maybe you should be 'a hell of a lot carefuller': Defamation, Facebook and Family Law
Clients often ask us if they can sue their former spouse for defamation, particularly after reading hurtful statements in court documents.
Defamation is injuring the esteem in which a person is held by the community – the test is would an ordinary, reasonable reader think less of the person as a result of the statements. It follows that a person must have a good character to be defamed. Truth is a defence but it must be proved by the person who made the defamatory statement.
In a recent case in Western Australia a Bunbury woman, Robyn Greeuw, was ordered to pay $12,500 (plus her former partner's costs of a 10 day trial) after she was unable to prove domestic violence allegations made in a Facebook post.
In the post, Ms Greeuw wrote "Separated from Miro Dabrowski after 18 years of suffering domestic violence and abuse. Now fighting the system to keep my children safe." The post was seen by numerous people who gave evidence, including Mr Dabrowski's brother in law, his girlfriend (who then decided for a period of time not to see him any more) and his sister.
Ms Greeuw removed the post after receiving a letter from Mr Dabrowski's lawyer, although she did not apologise for statement. In the subsequent Court hearing she failed to impress the Judge. He said:-
Domestic violence and abuse by its very nature usually occur in the matrimonial home and in the absence of independent witnesses. I accept that defamation findings can be made solely on the evidence of one partner against the other.
However, Ms Greeuw's credibility is so badly affected by the matters to which I have referred that it leads to the conclusion that she is prepared to say or write whatever she thinks will suit her case and I would not be prepared to accept her evidence unless it is supported by independent evidence or documents contemporaneously made with the events she now complains of.
No such independent evidence was made available. Judge Bowden found that Mr Dabrowski had been defamed and made the order that Ms Greeuw pay him $12,500 as a reparation for the harm done and for vindication of his reputation. As she was entirely unsuccessful in the litigation, she was also ordered to pay costs.
The case has attracted quite a lot of interest and, unlike family law proceedings where it is an offence to publish information that may identify a party to those proceedings, the identity of the parties are revealed.
Ms Greeuw told the Judge that the defamation proceedings 'frightened' her and that she would be 'a hell of a lot carefuller…' in the future. Maybe we all should be!
Please contact us if we can assist with your family law matter.Tags: Defamation, Evidence, Facebook, Family Court, Federal Circuit Court, Social Media
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- Important Dates for Filing Applications in the Family Court of Australia 30 October 2019
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Welcome to Music Friday when we bring nostalgic tunes with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the title or lyrics. Today, Dion helps us celebrate July's official birthstone with his 1963 hit, "Ruby Baby."
In this song of unrequited love, Dion croons about a girl who may be out of reach. He sings, "I got a girl and Ruby is her name / She don't love me, but I love her just the same / Ruby Baby how I want you / Like a ghost I'm gonna haunt you / Ruby Baby when will you be mine?"
Written by the dynamic hit-generating duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, "Ruby Baby" ranks a close second to the Rolling Stones' "Ruby Tuesday" on our list of the most famous "ruby" songs ever.
"Ruby Baby" was originally recorded in 1956 by The Drifters, who watched it rise to #10 on the R&B charts. By when Dion released his version in 1963 it zoomed to #2 on the broad-based U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained in the Top 40 for 11 weeks. The song brought Dion worldwide fame.
Dion DiMucci, who celebrated his 76th birthday last week and continues to tour, launched his career as the frontman for Dion and the Belmonts in the late 1950s. The group's name was derived from the fact that the four singers all lived on or near Belmont Avenue in the Bronx, N.Y.
Dion would go on to have a successful solo career that has transformed him from a handsome teen idol to a widely respected grandfather of Rock & Roll. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.
We hope you enjoy this clip of Dion performing "Ruby Baby" on Late Night With David Letterman. The lyrics are below if you'd like to sing along...
"Ruby Baby"
Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Performed by Dion.
I got a girl and Ruby is her name
She don't love me, but I love her just the same
Ruby Baby how I want you
Like a ghost I'm gonna haunt you
Ruby Baby when will you be mine?
Each time I see you baby my heart cries
I'm gonna steal you away from all those guys
From the sunny day I met you
Made a bet that I would get you
Ruby Baby when will you be mine?
I got a girl and Ruby is her name
I'd give the world just to set her heart aflame
Got some lovin' money too
Gonna give it all to you
Ruby Baby when will you be mine?
Images via DionDiMucci.com (Dion's official website)


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Senator Rehman Malik strongly condemns terrorists attack outside Data Darbar
KARACHI: Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Interior Senator A. Rehman Malik has strongly condemned the suicide blast outside Data Darbar in Lahore on Wednesday morning in which 10 people including three policemen were martyred and 25 people were injured. He expressed great grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives and extended his heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families of martyrs. He asked the government to not ignore the recent wave of terrorism as it seems a designed conspiracy against Pakistan. He has advised the police and Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to remain alert and further tighten the security checking system across the country. He warned the enemies of Pakistan and said that Pakistani forces were highly alert and will not let enemy succeed in its nefarious designs. He has urged the government to review the National Action Plan (NAP) and take extraordinary measures well on time against terrorists before they spread like monster once again.
Senator A. Rehman Malik said that the Sri Lankan COAS has clearly stated that terrorists of the ISIS (Daesh) were trained in India who carried out series of terrorist attacks on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka. He said now when it is clear that there are training camps of ISIS/Daesh in India, terrorism in the region and particularly in Pakistan will be increasing.


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On January 10th, General Motors Co. announced it was recalling about 370,000 of its redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks due to a software malfunction that can cause parts of the exhaust to heat up and result in fire. A week after the recall was announced, a Houston resident's Chevy Silverado did burst into flames. Allen Paul, the truck's owner, said he received the recall notice 30 minutes before the vehicle's front end burned.
It was unfortunate that the vehicle was engulfed in flames immediately after the recall notice was received. This incident proves that recall notices are issued for a reason and that it is important to take such notices seriously. Find out what you should do when your vehicle is part of a recall.
Don't ignore recall notices
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one in every four car owners do not bring their vehicle in for recall work. Don't be indifferent to recall notices. They are given to immediately and promptly address auto defects. If you ignore the notice, you are putting your life—and the lives of potential passengers—in danger. Get the problem fixed as soon as possible to ensure safety.
Pay attention to what is indicated in the notice
In the recall notice, you will know what repairs should be done and which dealers will do the repairs. Drive your car to one of the specified dealers as soon as you can. Auto makers have 60 days to address the problem, and that time period begins after the date indicated on the Official Safety Recall Notice.
60 days seem like a long time, but don't delay—the length of time required for auto work depends on the kind of repair needed. If the defects being addressed are electronic or those involving the engine or transmission, the auto maker needs all 60 days to make your car safe again.
Be proactive
Manufacturers inform consumers about auto recalls by standard mail or by phone. In some cases, the consumer will be alerted regarding the recall electronically (if the consumer has an online account with the dealer) or through the vehicle's onboard communication system. If you find out about your car being a subject of a recall campaign in the news and have yet to hear from the manufacturer, contact the manufacturer or your local dealership. Give them your VIN (vehicle identification number) so they can confirm if your vehicle is indeed part of the recall. You also have the option to call the Auto Safety Hotline of the NHTSA or visit the NHTSA website, where you will find recall information as early as 1966.
If you are not the car's original owner and you found out about the recall, contact the manufacturer and inform them that you now own the vehicle. You may contact the manufacturer's customer service department by calling the toll-free number found in the owner's manual. If you purchased the car without the owner's manual, visit the manufacturer's website to get their customer service number. You need to contact the manufacturer so they can have your name, address and your car's VIN on their database.
Know that you may still qualify for recalls that have happened prior to your purchase of the used car. A consumer is qualified for no-charge recalls up to 8 years from the original sale date of the automobile.


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Nobody wants to think about their dog getting hurt- but dogs are athletic, curious and clumsy animals, that cause a lot of accidents- both to themselves and to humans. If you have a dog that likes to take long walks with you, runs around a lot or simply gets over-excited from time-to-time, you'll notice that you're probably more likely to have a run in with something or other over time.
When this happens, you'll want to be prepared and should do so by investing in a dog first aid kit. The best dog first aid kit will not only be handy to have for smaller accidents but can act as a trusty piece of equipment should the worst happen. These dog emergency kits will not only stop the discomfort of your dog, but possibly give you valuable time to get to the vets and solve the problem for good.
The Best Dog First Aid Kit
Thrive First Aid Kit
Topping our list is this essential first aid kid by Thrive, who have managed to cram in a whopping 291 medical-grade supplies in a bag that weighs just 1.1lb. Suffice to say that this bag packs quite the punch, measuring only 12w x 8.5h x 4d- making this emergency medical kit for dogs perfect for travel and even short distances, as it won't take up too much space.
Inside this complete first aid kit are separate compartments, making it easier to find exactly what you need in a pinch. Of course, the light weight and small size don't allow room for low-grade tech and each zipper and pocket is robust yet easy to use. The heavy-grade material hides the huge amounts of hospital grade supplies, allowing you worry about nothing but the situation at hand.
High quality
291 medical-grade supplies
Small and lightweight
- BrandThrive
- Model4350275177
- Weight1.81 pounds
RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit
The pocket first aid kit from RC Pet Products is perfect for those who want to be prepared in their day-to-day life. Small enough to take with you on walks and coming in at a tiny 92g, you can be sure that this is the best dog first aid kit to fit in your pocket and go on an adventure, without compromising on quality.
Containing all the necessary bits and pieces you could want in an emergency- including a dog first aid book- this is a first aid kit designed with dogs and their owners in mind. You can even attach this pocket first aid kit to your dog's leash using the carabiner feature at the top of the first aid kit.
- BrandRC Pet Products
- Model64600007
- Weight1.76 ounces
Adventure Medical Kits For Dog
Perfect for the pair that loves an adventure, this 1.8lb high-quality first aid kit works for both humans and their dogs. There's even the inclusion of two books- one for yourself and one for your pooch, which tells you what to do in an emergency, when to worry and how to treat both accidents and emergencies.
Designed to be lightweight and functional, without compromising on the quality, the Adventure Medical Kits (Dog Series) will be a fantastically helping hand when you're caught in a bind and should absolutely be considered by any pet owner who loves to take long trips with their dog.
Dimensions: 7.5″ X 3.5″ X 5.38"
Highly rate
Lightweight yet robust
- BrandAdventure Medical Kits
- ModelAdventure Medical
- Weight1.8 pounds
FabFur Gear Dog First Aid Kit
The next offering on our list comes from FabFur and comes with high reviews as a vet-approved dog first aid kit. Unlike some others on our list, this is a first aid designed specifically with pets in mind and even comes with a pet emergency handbook, so you can be sure you're following the correct procedure should the worst happen.
Weighing in at 15.2 ounces, or .95lbs, this is one of the most lightweight options available on our list and comes in a funky camouflage design. It is also one of the most realistically packed, including 5 different types of bandages, tick removers, an emergency blanket and even the National Animal Poison Control Center number within its 3" x 5" x 7" design.
Vet approved
Smartly packed
- BrandFabFur Gear
- Weight15.2 ounces
RC Pet Products First Aid Kit
Another option from RC Pet Products and this time it's the larger, jam-packed variation from the pocket first aid kit. The larger design may mean it's less accessible, but the added space allows it to be jam-packed with everything your pooch could possibly need in an emergency, from gauze and antiseptic to curved, blunt-ended scissors.
The RC Pets First Aid Kit comes with a Walks 'n' Wags first aid manual, for quick reference during emergencies and sits around the middle-mark of our top picks for weight, coming in at 1.2lbs. The multiple, clear pockets allow for both easy access and make it easy to see what you need, when you need it.
Dimensions: 7" x 3" x 8"
Great middleweight option
Organized with clear pockets
- BrandRC Pet Products
- Model63800007
- Weight1.2 pounds
Rayco International Ltd. AKC Pet First Aid Kit
This 50-piece kit is one of our largest pet first aid kits and comes from the masterminds at Rayco International Ltd. At 1.9lbs, this is the largest first aid kit on our list and therefore should best be kept in cars during travel or at home, as the chunkiness can sometimes be a hindrance during longer walks or adventures.
Still, all that extra weight carries all the extra goodies, including a collapsible water bowl, emergency blankets, a waterproof emergency ID card and even extra space for you to personalize your pet's first aid kit to your specifications- great for dogs who need extra medicine or treatment.
Added room for personalization
Large first aid kit
Great value
- BrandFirst Aid – USA
- ModelFA-601
- Weight1.9 pounds
Diatonic Designs First Aid Kit
Another smaller option that has been designed and created with adventure in mind, the Diatonic Designs Ltd pet first aid kit is suitable for travel at just 1.2lbs. Don't let the small size fool you however, as this dog first aid kit still manages to keep over 40 medical-grade supplies within its reinforced walls.
The water-resistant bag also keeps an emergency collapsible bowl that is perfect for whipping out when off on an adventure, while the essentials include specialist bandages, lice clips and even a tongue depressor. You can be sure that Diatonic Designs thought of everything when it comes to keeping your dog safe when out and about, with the simple design and cram-packed universal supplies.
Features unique first aid equipment
Highly rated
Suitable for travel
- BrandDiatonic Designs
- Weight1.2 pounds
Labra Dog First Aid Kit
The compact and lightweight Labra K9 first aid kit for emergencies is a small but mighty option for those who like to keep their dog first aid kits nearby at all times. Weighing less than 7 ounces and measuring only 8"x5.5" this kit will surprise with its tiny size.
Labra Co. is a smaller business than most of the competitors on this list, yet they clearly work in an area they love- ensuring that all the necessities are included with this small bag, while maintaining its light weight and ability to travel with users, all over the country. Labra proudly boast of being used by vets across the country and their high ratings certainly seem to back their claims up, with customer loving how accessible this pet first aid kit truly is.
Highly Rated
- BrandLabra
- Weight6.7 ounces
New Market Squared First Aid Kit for Dogs
The FDA-approved first aid kit from New Market Squared is another option for dog owners who love to trek, take vacations with their dog or simply enjoy their long walks with their canine companions. Small enough to be carried in the average pocket while containing everything you could possible need, New Market Squared have shown their ability to understand their audience to a T.
Holding foldable water bowls, antiseptic, gauze and gloves along with many more of it's total of 25-pieces, you can be sure you'll have everything you need to hand when you choose this option. It's available at a great price and a great option for those looking for something small and portable, that doesn't have to be held throughout the entire walk.
- BrandNew Market Squared
- Weight10.6 ounces
Tactical Freedom First Aid Kit Dog
Our final top pick is a great little option that weight in around 4.8 ounces and comes with a loop attached, so you can easily hang your Tactical Freedom first aid kit on your belt. This accessibility is used throughout the kit, as the compartments make it easy for you to see what you need, when you need it.
This is the perfect safety net for your dog, ensuring that you have the absolute essentials you need when out for a walk with Fido. The bag itself is water-resistant and tough, too- so you don't have to worry about where you walk, as you travel.
- BrandTactical Freedom
- Weight4.8 ounces
Best Dog First Aid Kit Buying Guide & FAQ
What to Look for in a Dog First Aid Kit
- Essentials
While you can never be too sure what's going to happen in life, you'll definitely want your dog medical kit to be filled with the right instruments and kit that can help you, should something sinister happen.
First and foremost, your emergency kit for dogs should include all the paperwork related to your dog. This might not seem like something you may need- however, you'll be glad to have all your papers in place, should your vet request them. In here, will be all the details regarding vaccinations, previous issues and current medications and/or conditions, all of which are essential for the proper care of your pet.
Speaking of paperwork, bring along a small first aid book for your dog in your dog emergency kit. Having this to hand will help when you when your dog is injured and you're in a bit of a flap. The best first aid book will have simple instructions that you can follow at a moment's notice, preferably with clear diagrams, in case you find yourself stumbling a touch over the words.
Next, be sure your pet emergency kit has non-stick bandages and gauze. These will control bleeding and protect your pet's wounds from dirt, debris and germs. Be sure to get pet-friendly bandages with an adhesive aspect, as normal bandages may have materials that can harmful to a dog (especially if ingested, which a dog is very likely to attempt!). Alongside your bandages, you'll need some dog-friendly sticky-tape to keep them in place.
Blunt ended scissors will help you shape and cut your bandages to size and they're also great for getting any stuck paws out of prickly situations or cutting lumps from your dog's fur, too. These and a pair of tweezers are great for accidents that can occur during walks, when you're able to stop the issue when it begins, without having to walk home on poorly pads or legs.
Activated charcoal or milk of magnesia are great for dogs who don't suffer from any allergies or issues relating to these ingredients. They can both by used to absorb poison and, although it may not stop the poison completely, it may thin this out enough or slow it down so that you dog has time to go to the vets and receive an antidote.
If you have a curious dog, who likes to stick their face into anything and everything, be sure to bring along an eyedropper and some eyedrops- these will help flush wounds that have occurred in and around the eye. You should also bring along an antiseptic wash or spray, that can help disinfect wounds.
One of the best things you can add to your pet first aid kit is hydrogen peroxide. You'll need this to induce vomiting if you think your dog has eaten something poisonous, or perhaps eaten anything they shouldn't have. This will also clear their stomach if they need to go into surgery for any reason.
As well as all of this, you'll need to take your dog's medicine with you in your dog emergency kit, in case you're away on holiday or they have an illness-related attack. Always keep your necessities with you at all times, if your dog is likely to suffer from problems during travel, or at home.
Other handy items to keep in your dog's first aid kit include:
- Spare collar and lead- in case yours get lost
- Elizabethan collar- to stop your pup licking at any wounds around the body
- Treats- for distractions.
- Bottled water- for dehydration and to clean wounds
- Digital thermometer- important for fevers and general information
- Soft towels- for your dog to lie on, without fear of contaminants
- Flashlight- for best visibility
- Magnifying glass- to be able to thoroughly check for issues
- Disposable gloves- so you don't spread any germs into wounds
- Specifics
It's likely that you may be looking for an animal first aid kit because your pet already has some pre-existing conditions. Whether they be dietary or physiological, it's a good idea to keep your tablets, jabs and bric-a-brac ready to use in your dog medical kit. You'll also need to buy a kit that has some room available for those extra bits and pieces, so add that to your list.
- Accessibility
There's no point having a dog first aid kit unless you actually have it to hand in emergencies. Dog first aid is only effective if you manage to jump into action as soon as the accident occurs, so look for a dog emergency kit that you can either carry around with you or that travels well.
Why You Should Own a Dog First Aid Kit
- Emergencies
It's a fairly obvious point to make, but you'll need a pet first aid kit in case of emergencies. It's not uncommon for puppies to slip from their collar and make a break for it, or for your dog to slip and fall on ice. In an ideal world, no harm would ever befall your dog but, if it does, you want to be ready. So, when the worst happens, be sure that you're prepared for any and all occurrences.
- Accidents
Accidents happen and, before they develop into an emergency, you'll want to nip the problem in the bud. These accidents can happen anywhere at any time, whether it's a one-a-million chance like being stung on the nose by a wasp or a build-up of ice and grit between the paws, you'll want to resolve the issue then and there.
The best dog medical kits will have anything and everything for every day-to-day accident that may happen. So, be sure to grab one that you know you can whip out at a moment's notice, which is when you'll need it the most.
Best Dog First Aid Kit FAQ:
Q: Where should I store my dog's first aid kit?
Where you should store your emergency medical kit for dog's depends entirely on where you and your dog are most likely to be, and what size first aid kit you opt for. Larger kits are most likely to be better kept at home, alongside your own first aid kit (although with clear markings, to let you know which to go for, and when).
Of course, you're more likely to come across accidents and emergencies when out and about, so it's a good idea to keep medium-sized first aid kits in the car- perhaps a glove box or in a compartment near the boot. This location will ensure you're able to locate and use your fist aid kit for your dog whenever you are on your travels.
Small dog kits are best kept in your bag. This is the best possible place for most kits but not always a viable option, due to the bulk of the larger types. Simple pop your small first aid kit, with all of the essentials, in your bag as you go for walks. This will help you spring in to action the moment you first notice an issue with your pup.
Q: How often should I replace my dog's first aid kit?
Each first aid kit will have a different lifespan and, even then, this can be affected by where you take it and what conditions the first aid is in. Naturally, things like blunt-ended scissors or a soft towel should only be replaced once used, in order to keep cross-contamination at a minimum. However, items such as bandages and gauze should be thrown away once used or replaced once the expiry date has been reached. You'll usually be able to see this date written clearly on the packaging.
In some cases, you may also be able to recycle your medical goods. The University of Adelaide, for example, recently requested that anyone who has any used or like-new bandages they are looking to throw away should be donated to the local pet shelters, to be cleaned until they are once again sterile and re-used.
Q: Is triple antibiotic ointment harmful for dogs?
Generally speaking, using human medicines on dogs is a big no-no. Dogs are more likely to lick their wounds, ingest the ointments and end up becoming very ill, if the incorrect items are used on a wound. That said, with triple-antibiotic ointment, there is an exception.
Of course, this exception comes with rules and the first rule is that you will need to understand what you are applying to your dog's wound before going ahead with treatment. There are three main ingredients in this ointment: bacitracin, neomycin and polymyxin B- all of which are designed to work again bacteria on the skin. The combination of the three anti-bacterial ingredients work together to diffuse any harm caused by the most common types of bacteria found in the world, today.
To apply the anti-biotic ointment, you must first be sure that your dog will not cause you any harm, so pop on a muzzle (using your bandages, if required), so that they do not "hit out" and try to stop you causing them some slight pain as the ointment goes on. Ideally, you would also have an inflatable or Elizabethan collar, which will also stop them from licking the treatment off and therefore negating the benefits of the treatment.
If you have been applying the triple antibiotic ointment regularly, over the course of a week and don't see any improvement, always call your vet. This ointment should also only be used for small wounds and abrasions.
Q: Can I put anything on a dog's cut?
Absolutely not. Like with us humans, cuts and wounds on dogs are very likely (if not more likely) to become infected if not taken care of properly. Even using something such as a cotton ball instead of gauze can lead to fibers being caught in the cut and lead to an infection.
In order to help your dog's wound heal, be sure to begin by using a muzzle for your dog, as they may lash out in pain or become aggressive during the following steps. Then, gently clean away any dirt that has been caught in the wound. Next, cut or shave away fur from around the area, if you notice this becomes caught or too close to the damaged skin.
You should now apply your ointment, which may cause some discomfort to your dog but is necessary. Finally, you should use a bandage if necessary, to cover up the wound and protect the cut from more dirt and debris. Be sure to keep checking on your dog's wound and ensure that their state doesn't decline by checking their temperature and general behavior, regularly. If you become concerned at any time, call your vet for a professional opinion and diagnosis.
Our Top Pick
As an emergency first aid kit for dogs, our top pick had to be the offering from Thrive. An option that works well as both a portable first aid kit with the robust aspect that any competitive larger counterpart may have, this is a first aid kit that contains everything you need and more- without taking up the space.
The medical-grade supplies and sheer amount that you can carry with you at any one time helps to pop this item at the top of our list. We would definitely recommend the Pet First Aid Kit from Thrive to any dog lovers out there who are looking to invest in a high-quality, tough and suitable first aid kit to use when out and about, or at home.
- Dog First Aid Kit: What Should You Include?, Canine Journal
- How to Create a Pet Emergency Kit, Web MD


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Ihave paddled into a strange dream. It is agray morning on the Potomac River insouthern Maryland. Rising up out of themurk in front of my canoe is what lookslike a wooden face topped by a shaggy wigof sticks.
"At one time, we had as many as 260 ves-sels here," Shomette says as he pointsacross an inlet dotted with what looks likeforested islands. "Two hundred and four-teen were World War I wooden steamshipsbuilt for the transport of troops and cargoover to Europe."Engine rooms have become floating flowerpots. Cabins are now wetlands with treesand ponds. Amid rot and rust, beaversbuild dams, and osprey weave nests.
As I glide closer, I can see it is the pock-marked stern of a wrecked ship, crowned byan osprey nest. Trees sprout from rottingplanks in the nearly century-old cargo ship.The ship has become an island—as haveseveral other half-sub-merged wrecks in what isknown as the "GhostFleet of Mallows Bay."We climb aboard one of these World War Iships, sloshing through a jungle on itsdeck. The Tanka was part of an emergencyfleet of steam-powered cargo carriers thatIn its ability to bounce back, Mallows Bay islike the Potomac River itself, which was sochoked with sewage during the 1960s that itwas a national disgrace. Since then, improve-ments at Washington's regional and upstreamsewage treatment plants have brought backunderwater grasses and bass tournaments.
In a similar way, the
whole Chesapeake Bay
ecosystem has shown an
ability to rebound when
given a chance. Blue crab
populations more than
doubled when Maryland
and Virginia imposed restrictions on catching females three years ago. Aquatic vegetation has made a comeback in the northern
Bay. Bald eagles, osprey, and blue heron
have multiplied.
All around in this
Chesapeake Bay tributary, about an hour south
of Washington, rows of rusty iron rods with
metal caps march like soldiers through
shallow waters coursing with fish. It's a
maritime scrap yard that dates back more
than two centuries.
"Mallows Bay contains the largest shipwreck assemblage in the western hemisphere, dating from the period of the
American Revolution, up through the
1970s," says my guide, Donald
Shomette, author of the book The Ghost
Fleet of Mallows Bay and Other Tales of the
Lost Chesapeake.
the U.S. spent a billion dollars building
from 1917 to 1923. The idea was to overwhelm German U-boats by creating a
"wooden bridge" across the Atlantic. But by
the time the ships were built, the war was
over, steam power was outdated, and so
many were just dumped here to be
scrapped and partially burned.
Even grim times like our own and graveyards
like Mallows Bay are habitats for hope.
The wrecks are the waste of war. But they
are also monuments to something uplifting: the fierce resilience of nature, and its
ability to transform even a junkyard into an
insurgency of life.
Tom Pelton, an award-winning
environmental journalist, is
Senior Writer and Investigative
Reporter for the Chesapeake
Bay Foundation.


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Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.
The Community Development Department is responsible for a full range of land use and neighborhood services in the City of Horace. The department staff works with citizens, consultants, and partner agencies to manage their large portfolio, which includes:
Please click on the image below to access the Zoning Map
Please click on the image below to access the Future Land Use Map
Our Community Development Department staff:
Barrett Voigt - Community Development Director
Keith Asheim - Building Inspector


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Everyone and their mother will be blogging this, but for good reason – this is an important issue, and one we have to start addressing sooner rather than later.
Information on the changes to how Internet Explorer handles active content (like Flash and Shockwave) is now available at:
It's better than it could have been, but it's still going to be a pain. Thanks Eolas! (who's up for TPing their corporate offices?)
Macromedia has been very responsive to this issue, and should have utilities to help us transition smoothly available soon (good job MM!!). It will soon be our turn, as developers, to ensure the transition continues smoothly. It should be our collective goal to make sure that when the first browsers with this change hit consumers in early 2004, users are met with a minimum number of prompts – we really don't need to give people a new reason to hate/disable Flash.
[EDIT:] Does anyone know the answer to this very important question:
Does anyone know if the new IE differentiates between disabling Active Content prompts, and disabling ALL Active Content? This one issue will have a huge impact on our industry.


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Krassimir Vajarov (M.D. in Bulgaria) was recommended to me by my family Dr of 20 yrs. My entire family has gone to him for over 15 years and the results of his work speak for itself. He is careful, thorough, and conservative and does not push for things that are not necessary. He takes the time to listen and goes the extra mile for his patients.He is warm, caring, patient, kind and very interested in improving the lifestyle of everyone he sees and I would recommend his practice to anyone whose life has been altered by chronic pain.
From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank Krassimir Vajarov enough for his skill in understanding pain and how miserable it can make one's life. Last year (2009), I was dealing with severe sciatica and lower back pain and K. Vajarov gave me my life back without surgery. I find him to be very competent in alleviating all pain and his thoughtful approach in working with you until your pain is gone, has made my trips to him anxiety-free.
The care and the kindness I have received from K. Vajarov far exceed any other medical facility I have ever been involved with. We all fear the unknown but Krassimir Vajarov's knowledge and gentle manner has taken that fear away. I am convinced that K. Vajarov is very qualified in the field of overall wellness and I would not hesitate to recommend his services to everyone. In a world where compassion, caring, and kindness seems to have disappeared saying "THANK YOU" seems so small. I am extremely happy and fortunate to have found such a "fine" and "caring" man for my natural health care provider.


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News and Stories
Taking Food Safety Seriously
—Mario Estrada, Jr.
Food safety is one of the most important issues facing the produce industry today. What many may not realize is that when it comes to foodborne illnesses and food safety outbreaks, there is no difference between small and large farms or conventional and organic operations.
In 2011, an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak occurred in strawberries from a small farm in the state of Oregon. It killed two people and sickened more than a dozen. Then just a few months later, one of the largest outbreaks ever occurred across multiple state lines—sadly, Listeria in cantaloupe killed 35 people and sickened 146.
Clearly, pathogens do not discriminate between small and large operations, meaning everyone needs to adopt and maintain Good Agriculture Practices (GAP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to keep consumers safe.
Produce associations, as well as academic, government, and private agencies have stepped up to help farmers take the necessary steps to pass the food safety audits buyers rightly require of their suppliers. Some states even offer partial reimbursement of auditing fees for farmers who complete and pass USDA GAP and Good Handling Practices audits. One great resource is the On-Farm Food Safety Project. This site helps farmers create a step-by-step, actionable food safety plan and provides the necessary forms and templates to download. Other informative websites include Primus Labs, UC Food Safety, United Fresh Produce Association (UFPA), and of course, the Produce Marketing Association (PMA).
Markon has long realized the seriousness of food safety. In fact, we were a forerunner within the produce industry—requiring all growers to meet strict requirements and submit documentation on an annual basis—before these issues became front page news. Now several of our members are taking it a step further by teaming up with the PMA to offer small farmer food safety workshops. Markon understands that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, so we are working together with not just our own growers, but any and all farmers—to empower them with the tools they need to ensure that the fruits and vegetables going to consumers and restaurants are as safe as possible.
Remember, if you have any questions regarding foodborne illness or anything food safety-related, you can Ask a Food Safety Expert on the Markon website.


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Do not lose the tracking! Analytics is an easy way to understand the mobility of your customers while they are outside your influenced area, and how is a customer moving on his daily life
Thanks to the integration of our SDK in your mobile apps, you will have access to your costumers data trough:
Analytics functions:
If you want to have a global understanding of the mobility in an area of interest, Parkifast Insight will give you a full picture of aggregated mobility data.
Thanks to a bulk of data you will have access to aggregated data trough:
Insights functions:
Designed for business and developers.
Mobile data integration
Directly on third party mobile applications.
User friendly
Been integrated on your mobile app, users won't feel differences on the UX/UI.
Predict affluence
Be proactive and get ready for your costumers needs been able to predict new business opportunities.
Cloud computing
Directly on your app vía SDK, your will receive all parking spots available on real-time.
Improve your costumer experience
Increase the recurrence of your customers by decreasing the time and stress spent on parking.
Feature as a Service
ParkiFaaS is our feature as a service product which provides on-street parking spots


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Price: $65.00
Quantity: 1 available
Book Condition: Near Fine
Previous owner's bookplate and name inside. Signed by the author and illustrator. Beautiful color illustrations; pictorial cover. Text in German. Hans Christian Andersen Medaille winner. Slight wear to edges.
Title: Hochzeit Im Teich
Illustrator: Kudlacek, Jan
Categories: German, Children's,
Publisher: Czechoslovakia, Artia: 1980
Binding: Hard Cover
Book Condition: Near Fine
Jacket Condition: No Jacket
Inscription: Signed by Author
Weight: 1.00 Item
Seller ID: 117124


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Nationally, Labrador Retriever Remains America's Most Popular
Once again, the Labrador Retriever took Seattle's top spot in the American Kennel Club's (AKC®) 2017 ranking of the most popular AKC-recognized dog breeds in the U.S.
The Lab was also recognized as the #1 pup in Washington D.C., Boston, and Denver.
The biggest mover in Seattle for 2017 was the Shiba Inu, jumping up from 17th to 10th, while Bulldogs fell out of the top 10, dropping from 9th to 11th.
"The Lab held onto the top spot in Seattle, but the Shiba Inu made a big move breaking into the top 10," said AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo. "These alert and active dogs show no sign of slowing down."
Seattle's top 5 breeds for 2017:
|Seattle's Most Popular Breeds 2017
* Registration data pulled from Seattle zip codes as specified by U.S. Postal Service
The AKC also announced its nationwide rankings today in a press conference at its New York City headquarters. The intelligent, family friendly Labrador Retriever firmly holds on to the number one spot on the most popular list for a record-breaking 27th consecutive year.
While the Labrador Retriever remains a constant at the top of the charts, the big mover and shaker in 2017 was the French Bulldog. The easygoing, playful, adaptable Frenchie not only jumped two spots to number four, it knocked the Beagle out of the top five for the first time since 1998.
|Most Popular Breeds Nationwide 2017
|1. Labrador Retriever
|2. German Shepherd Dog
|3. Golden Retriever
4. French Bulldog
5. Bulldog
Get social with the AKC! Join us on Facebook and Twitter.
The American Kennel Club, founded in 1884, is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 20,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.
AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.
To become a fan of the AKC on Facebook, go to http://www.facebook.com/americankennelclub. To follow the AKC on Twitter, go to http://www.twitter.com/akcdoglovers.


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NHL Puck Picks: The Playoffs
As the first round of the NHL Playoffs is down to one game, find out which players have the best chance to make an impact tonight and the start of Round Two.
As the first round of the NHL Playoffs is down to one game, find out which players have the best chance to make an impact tonight and the start of Round Two.
As the number of teams get smaller and smaller, find out which NHL players give players the best chance to win in tonight's contests.
Bonino plays on the second line of the power play and gets some good ice time, making him a nice pick for tonight's games.
The DFS hockey regular season is over and the NHL playoffs have begun. Take a look at the best options in tonight's games.
Lets get to the players in this challenging penultimate night of DFS regular hockey season.
The NHL season is winding down so be sure to draft the best bargain and power players in tonight's contests.
The season is winding down but we have plenty of NHL contests to play in tonight. Lets get into the bargains and big-ticket plays of the day.
We have dreary weather with the potential for snow as far south as Virginia and exciting hockey as far West as Los Angeles where the struggling Bruins from Boston try to get it together...
The previous two "pucks to pick" I have been advocating that you stack your roster with mid-range salary players because the big-ticket players have been struggling or they weren't on the slate. But with...
As baseball picks up the seams hockey heats up in a race for the playoffs. The trade deadline shuffled some players from cellar dweller squads to contending units and whom those trades impact will...


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Moss Bubble Romper
This moss green bubble romper is an easy outfit option for your gorgeous babe. Stretchy legs and snaps at the crotch make for comfy outfit changes.
Breezy in the summer and perfect paired with stockings and a cardigan in cooler weather.
- 100% Certified Organic Cotton Slub Jersey
- Coconut buttons down centre front.
- Made ethically in a socially and environmentally responsible factory in India
- GOTS approved water based inks and dyes have been used on all of our garments