MacArthur High goes Vegas
Auditorium gets a complete makeover worthy of the limelight
By RUSSELL RIAN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Consider it the lipstick on Mac's makeover.
Some 987 rich red seats over 25 rows smile broadly before a contoured stage outlined by rich woods and subtle shading. It's a whole new look for the 40-year-old auditorium built as part of the original MacArthur High School.
It's the latest highlight in MacArthur High's transformation, which includes a revamped cafeteria, new parking lots, entryways and office space and eventually a new gym. Voters approved about $11 million for Mac's makeover; about $5 million or so went for the auditorium. With the exception of the gym, the auditorium is the last of MacArthur's renovations. Most were completed for the start of this year.
"It's beautiful and incredible," declared Bruce R. Coleman, a theatrical arts instructor whose productions have been relegated to the cafeteria during the six-month construction.
"It's such a far cry from where we were," agreed Michael D'Spain, director of choral activities.
Mac's auditorium was long overdue for repairs that its sibling halls at Irving and Nimitz already enjoyed.
Seats could no longer be repaired. Acoustics were "badly antiquated" – sounds reverberated from the walls with an almost-stadium-like echo on occasions. Wooden stage floors creaked through drama productions. Handfuls of students were needed just to lift the curtains.
"I feel like we've gone from the 19th century to the 21st century in a matter of months," Mr. Coleman said.
New chairs, new carpeting, new paint, new wood paneling, new stage floor, new second-floor lighting and audio rooms. Revamped backstage with new loading dock, new storage and construction areas, and his and her dressing rooms, complete with intercom system. Removable seating for extra space. Ramps for those in wheelchairs to get to the stage.
"The space is designed for different kinds of uses," said Richard Robinson, principal architect for the project, whose Dallas firm Milton Powell and Partners is also designing the gym. "You want them to be aware of the experience, but not so it's overwhelming."
Better sound may be the most noticeable improvement. About 100 acoustical panels now stretch along the back walls. A replaceable flooring covers the stage.
"It dampens the sound so you don't get reverberation," Mr. Robinson said, but you're likely not even to notice them.
Colors are more subtle – darker, warmer wood paneling. Lighting towers aimed at the stage are no longer visible.
Among the highlights is a new computerized rigging system that holds the lights and curtains and acoustical shells that bounce the sound out to the audience during music concerts.
"The rigging system is state of the art, something you could find in Las Vegas," said Alan Lewis, principal consultant for Encore Design Group, which helped design the school's new systems. The Dallas consulting firm handled Booker T. Washington School for Performing Arts in Dallas and has done several Las Vegas showrooms.
It features more than 30 motorized bars for lighting and three acoustical shells for musical performances, all computerized.
"We're going to have to sit and read manuals," said Mr. D'Spain.
The first public performance at the new auditorium will be next month with Seussical the Musical.
But is there enough time with the auditorium's January opening?
"There's never enough time," Mr. Coleman said with a smile.
News from the Lone Star State
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TexasStooge
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City Council approves clinic
It may take up to six months to purchase land for facility
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - A community health clinic for people with low to moderate incomes is one step closer to reality after the City Council approved the project last week.
The vote ends months of negotiations between the city and Parkland Health and Hospital System, which will operate the clinic.
But there's more work to do. The city may take up to six months to purchase land in south Irving for the clinic. And it may take a couple of years before a clinic opens, city officials said. Parkland will oversee construction.
City officials have their eyes on a 10-acre piece of land on North Britain Road, just south of Airport Freeway.
Council member James Dickens called last week's vote wonderful.
"All entities are happy and comfortable to move forward," he said. "The project has momentum."
The clinic has been years in the making. And there have been many bumps in the process.
Parkland Memorial Hospital's Board of Managers, along with the Dallas County Commissioners Court, approved the project last month.
City officials say the clinic, which could cost about $12.1 million, would allow patients more convenient access to medical care, while easing patient loads at area emergency rooms.
The federal government awarded a $5.2 million loan last spring to help build the clinic. Other funding sources include the city, Parkland and Baylor Medical Center at Irving.
It may take up to six months to purchase land for facility
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - A community health clinic for people with low to moderate incomes is one step closer to reality after the City Council approved the project last week.
The vote ends months of negotiations between the city and Parkland Health and Hospital System, which will operate the clinic.
But there's more work to do. The city may take up to six months to purchase land in south Irving for the clinic. And it may take a couple of years before a clinic opens, city officials said. Parkland will oversee construction.
City officials have their eyes on a 10-acre piece of land on North Britain Road, just south of Airport Freeway.
Council member James Dickens called last week's vote wonderful.
"All entities are happy and comfortable to move forward," he said. "The project has momentum."
The clinic has been years in the making. And there have been many bumps in the process.
Parkland Memorial Hospital's Board of Managers, along with the Dallas County Commissioners Court, approved the project last month.
City officials say the clinic, which could cost about $12.1 million, would allow patients more convenient access to medical care, while easing patient loads at area emergency rooms.
The federal government awarded a $5.2 million loan last spring to help build the clinic. Other funding sources include the city, Parkland and Baylor Medical Center at Irving.
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TexasStooge
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Mayoral candidates spar in early debate
Hopefuls cite need for economic development, finance improvements
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Election day may be four months away – filing doesn't even start until Feb. 7 – but mayoral candidates debated at a forum last week.
Candidates called the early debate unusual, but they squared off about economic development, code enforcement and the city's economic health.
So far, there are five declared candidates: Mayor Joe Putnam, Owen DeWitt, Herbert Gears, Marvin Randle and Terry Waldrum. Election day is May 7.
The last six years have been productive despite fiscal challenges, Mr. Putnam said. Irving continues to face challenges, which is why the city needs an experienced mayor, said Mr. Putnam, who has been mayor since 1999.
"The city needs to have ... the most qualified, most proven, most tested leadership," he said at Wednesday's forum at Hackberry Creek Country Club. "I'm still the most qualified person."
Mr. Putnam supports a convention center and heritage museum. While other candidates may complain about what's wrong in Irving, Mr. Putnam said he'll spend his campaign focused on the positive things that are happening in the city.
Above all, he said, he can be trusted.
"You always keep your word," he said. "The thing I value most is keeping my word."
But Irving is falling behind and needs a new person in charge, his opponents countered.
"Irving has been stuck in the mud for the last few years," said Mr. Randle, a former mayor who believes the city needs to improve economic development.
"We keep focusing on the same problems," he added. "We need to solve the problems."
He said his work as past chairman of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce gives him an edge. City Hall needs a more business-friendly attitude, and city leaders need to unite to lure businesses to town, he said.
"We've got to have a united effort to move forward," he said.
The city also must act quickly to improve code enforcement, which has become a crisis, he said.
Mr. Gears said the city needs to work harder to improve its tax base and do a better job managing its finances. Irving's economic decline is guaranteed, he said, because the Dallas Cowboys plan on leaving Irving for a new stadium in Arlington.
"We cannot keep our head in the sand any longer," he said.
Mr. Gears, a former City Council member, cited his role in launching the community development block grant program in Irving and developing a community health clinic that is scheduled to be built on the city's south side.
"It's the kind of leadership I've offered to you in the past, and I'll offer to you in the future," he said.
Mr. Waldrum is concerned about residents who are leaving the city because of the deteriorating quality of life. The City Council needs direction, and that requires a mayor "who will put his neck on the line," said Mr. Waldrum, a former council member.
"You don't have a team if you don't have a leader," he said.
He said he'll meet with company CEOs on a weekly basis. In addition, he said, the city needs to do a better job of communicating and educating people on community standards. If the city allows south Irving to deteriorate, it will drain resources throughout Irving, he said.
Mr. Waldrum also said he wants to stop the city's "good ol' boy network."
"I don't owe anybody anything," he said.
Mr. DeWitt said the city should focus on improving residents' safety. When Irving becomes safer, people will want to visit and live in the city, he said.
"We don't need to be scared when walking in Irving Mall," he said.
City leaders must build partnerships with businesses, said Mr. DeWitt, who promises to meet with business people on a regular basis if he's elected. The city should consider building a convention center that would be different from centers in nearby cities, he said.
Mr. DeWitt, a former Irving school board member, is the only one of the five candidates not to have served on the council. It's time for a new, outside perspective, he said.
"All of these gentlemen have had their chance," he said.
The forum was sponsored by a newly formed residents group called Irving Citizens, Advocates and Neighbors.
Hopefuls cite need for economic development, finance improvements
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Election day may be four months away – filing doesn't even start until Feb. 7 – but mayoral candidates debated at a forum last week.
Candidates called the early debate unusual, but they squared off about economic development, code enforcement and the city's economic health.
So far, there are five declared candidates: Mayor Joe Putnam, Owen DeWitt, Herbert Gears, Marvin Randle and Terry Waldrum. Election day is May 7.
The last six years have been productive despite fiscal challenges, Mr. Putnam said. Irving continues to face challenges, which is why the city needs an experienced mayor, said Mr. Putnam, who has been mayor since 1999.
"The city needs to have ... the most qualified, most proven, most tested leadership," he said at Wednesday's forum at Hackberry Creek Country Club. "I'm still the most qualified person."
Mr. Putnam supports a convention center and heritage museum. While other candidates may complain about what's wrong in Irving, Mr. Putnam said he'll spend his campaign focused on the positive things that are happening in the city.
Above all, he said, he can be trusted.
"You always keep your word," he said. "The thing I value most is keeping my word."
But Irving is falling behind and needs a new person in charge, his opponents countered.
"Irving has been stuck in the mud for the last few years," said Mr. Randle, a former mayor who believes the city needs to improve economic development.
"We keep focusing on the same problems," he added. "We need to solve the problems."
He said his work as past chairman of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce gives him an edge. City Hall needs a more business-friendly attitude, and city leaders need to unite to lure businesses to town, he said.
"We've got to have a united effort to move forward," he said.
The city also must act quickly to improve code enforcement, which has become a crisis, he said.
Mr. Gears said the city needs to work harder to improve its tax base and do a better job managing its finances. Irving's economic decline is guaranteed, he said, because the Dallas Cowboys plan on leaving Irving for a new stadium in Arlington.
"We cannot keep our head in the sand any longer," he said.
Mr. Gears, a former City Council member, cited his role in launching the community development block grant program in Irving and developing a community health clinic that is scheduled to be built on the city's south side.
"It's the kind of leadership I've offered to you in the past, and I'll offer to you in the future," he said.
Mr. Waldrum is concerned about residents who are leaving the city because of the deteriorating quality of life. The City Council needs direction, and that requires a mayor "who will put his neck on the line," said Mr. Waldrum, a former council member.
"You don't have a team if you don't have a leader," he said.
He said he'll meet with company CEOs on a weekly basis. In addition, he said, the city needs to do a better job of communicating and educating people on community standards. If the city allows south Irving to deteriorate, it will drain resources throughout Irving, he said.
Mr. Waldrum also said he wants to stop the city's "good ol' boy network."
"I don't owe anybody anything," he said.
Mr. DeWitt said the city should focus on improving residents' safety. When Irving becomes safer, people will want to visit and live in the city, he said.
"We don't need to be scared when walking in Irving Mall," he said.
City leaders must build partnerships with businesses, said Mr. DeWitt, who promises to meet with business people on a regular basis if he's elected. The city should consider building a convention center that would be different from centers in nearby cities, he said.
Mr. DeWitt, a former Irving school board member, is the only one of the five candidates not to have served on the council. It's time for a new, outside perspective, he said.
"All of these gentlemen have had their chance," he said.
The forum was sponsored by a newly formed residents group called Irving Citizens, Advocates and Neighbors.
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Tsunami victims get help
Area religious groups raising money to send to places hit by disaster
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Irving's faith-based groups are raising money to help victims of the Asian tsunamis, which have killed about 150,000 people.
Members of the Islamic Center of Irving have collected more than $23,000. Center leaders as of early last week were figuring out which groups would get the donations.
The support is amazing, but not unexpected, said Ahmed Elmalky, vice president of the center's executive board.
"In Islam there's a common saying that says Muslims are one body, and if any part of the body is hurt, the rest of the body will feel the pain," Mr. Elmalky said. "We take that concept not just for Muslims but for all of humanity."
Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church is taking two separate collections – one for the Dallas Diocese, which is contributing to the relief effort, and another that will be sent to an Indonesian group.
Holy Family has collected more than $20,000 for the Indonesian effort, said Monsignor Jerome Duesman, church pastor.
"The tremendous spirit of giving is so evident by so many people," he said. "It's so good to hear."
Calvary Church plans to collect more than $25,000 by the time all of the money is counted, said J. Don George, the church's senior pastor. The money will be sent to Mission of Mercy and Convoy of Hope, which are assisting in the relief effort.
"It's our custom as a church to reach out to and love people who are victimized by tragedy," Dr. George said.
Area religious groups raising money to send to places hit by disaster
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Irving's faith-based groups are raising money to help victims of the Asian tsunamis, which have killed about 150,000 people.
Members of the Islamic Center of Irving have collected more than $23,000. Center leaders as of early last week were figuring out which groups would get the donations.
The support is amazing, but not unexpected, said Ahmed Elmalky, vice president of the center's executive board.
"In Islam there's a common saying that says Muslims are one body, and if any part of the body is hurt, the rest of the body will feel the pain," Mr. Elmalky said. "We take that concept not just for Muslims but for all of humanity."
Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church is taking two separate collections – one for the Dallas Diocese, which is contributing to the relief effort, and another that will be sent to an Indonesian group.
Holy Family has collected more than $20,000 for the Indonesian effort, said Monsignor Jerome Duesman, church pastor.
"The tremendous spirit of giving is so evident by so many people," he said. "It's so good to hear."
Calvary Church plans to collect more than $25,000 by the time all of the money is counted, said J. Don George, the church's senior pastor. The money will be sent to Mission of Mercy and Convoy of Hope, which are assisting in the relief effort.
"It's our custom as a church to reach out to and love people who are victimized by tragedy," Dr. George said.
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TexasStooge
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Eyesight not required for artistic vision
Sculptor's imagination 'as fertile as ever' after she became blind
By DEBORAH FLECK / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Gisela-Heidi Strunck did not let going blind prevent her from continuing to be an artist. A little more than a year after an operation to remove a brain tumor, the sculptor has new works on display at Irving Bible Church.
"It is a blessing to be able to work," Ms. Strunck said. But at first she held little hope of doing what she loves.
"My first thought was, 'Oh my God, I can't work,' " she said about waking up in the dark. "I was pretty miserable."
Although her tumor was benign, it disturbed nerves. Not only did she lose her sight but also her sense of taste and smell, and a little bit of feeling.
But her memory and talent were not lost.
"Her imagination and creative energies are as fertile as ever," wrote Marcie Inman in a guide to the exhibit. Curator of the galleries at the Irving Arts Center, Ms. Inman has known the artist for a long time.
"She is amazing," Ms. Inman said about Ms. Strunck's resiliency. "She is still an avid explorer, eager student and tireless worker. She rewards us [in this exhibit] with her obvious love of life and making art."
Ms. Strunck couldn't imagine a life without art. Born in Germany in 1945, she left home at a young age to study painting in Madrid, Athens, Florence and Oslo. She came to the states in the late '60s to visit a man she had met on a Greek island.
Romance blossomed and Juergen Strunck became her husband. Also an artist, Mr. Strunck joined the faculty at the University of Dallas in 1968 and still teaches at the liberal arts college in east Irving. The couple resides in Southlake.
Ms. Strunck worked in ceramics at the university and tried sculpture in the early '70s. Her first sculpture exhibit was at the university in 1975. She has had solo exhibits throughout Texas at colleges, galleries and art centers and group exhibits not only in Texas but also in Indiana, Arkansas, Kansas and Washington, D.C.
At first she didn't like Texas, but she admits she now is fond of her home. While living here, she continued to travel and made several trips to India in the '90s. "I love traveling," she said, and she draws inspiration from the places she's visited.
She uses exotic woods, such as purpleheart, yellowheart, lacewood and zebrawood, adding metallic floss that flows from the woods and fixtures.
About half of the pieces in the exhibit were created after she lost her sight. She credits her friends and fellow artists with encouraging her not to give up.
"People said you are strong and you can handle this," but she did not want to believe them. "Everyone has been so special. They have helped me realize being blind is not the worst thing," she said.
Most of the encouragement and assistance, however, comes from her husband. "Being an artist he was able to help in many ways," she said. He made a guiding device to help her separate the spools of floss so she can choose and combine colors.
Although she cannot see her work as she creates it, she guides her hands along the piece to feel if it flows and comes together.
One of her new pieces is called Prayer Posts, a display of seven 84-inch tall totems in an omega shape. Ms. Inman describes the work as "occupying and engaging space more actively with modular characteristics" than her earlier works.
Ms. Strunck's work reflects a strong spiritual influence as well as inner strength and rich vision. But she wants her story to be about the power of art and "not about me."
Art has lessened her pain. "Art is soothing and calming," she said. "I am thankful to do what I do. I have a very good life."
Sculptor's imagination 'as fertile as ever' after she became blind
By DEBORAH FLECK / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Gisela-Heidi Strunck did not let going blind prevent her from continuing to be an artist. A little more than a year after an operation to remove a brain tumor, the sculptor has new works on display at Irving Bible Church.
"It is a blessing to be able to work," Ms. Strunck said. But at first she held little hope of doing what she loves.
"My first thought was, 'Oh my God, I can't work,' " she said about waking up in the dark. "I was pretty miserable."
Although her tumor was benign, it disturbed nerves. Not only did she lose her sight but also her sense of taste and smell, and a little bit of feeling.
But her memory and talent were not lost.
"Her imagination and creative energies are as fertile as ever," wrote Marcie Inman in a guide to the exhibit. Curator of the galleries at the Irving Arts Center, Ms. Inman has known the artist for a long time.
"She is amazing," Ms. Inman said about Ms. Strunck's resiliency. "She is still an avid explorer, eager student and tireless worker. She rewards us [in this exhibit] with her obvious love of life and making art."
Ms. Strunck couldn't imagine a life without art. Born in Germany in 1945, she left home at a young age to study painting in Madrid, Athens, Florence and Oslo. She came to the states in the late '60s to visit a man she had met on a Greek island.
Romance blossomed and Juergen Strunck became her husband. Also an artist, Mr. Strunck joined the faculty at the University of Dallas in 1968 and still teaches at the liberal arts college in east Irving. The couple resides in Southlake.
Ms. Strunck worked in ceramics at the university and tried sculpture in the early '70s. Her first sculpture exhibit was at the university in 1975. She has had solo exhibits throughout Texas at colleges, galleries and art centers and group exhibits not only in Texas but also in Indiana, Arkansas, Kansas and Washington, D.C.
At first she didn't like Texas, but she admits she now is fond of her home. While living here, she continued to travel and made several trips to India in the '90s. "I love traveling," she said, and she draws inspiration from the places she's visited.
She uses exotic woods, such as purpleheart, yellowheart, lacewood and zebrawood, adding metallic floss that flows from the woods and fixtures.
About half of the pieces in the exhibit were created after she lost her sight. She credits her friends and fellow artists with encouraging her not to give up.
"People said you are strong and you can handle this," but she did not want to believe them. "Everyone has been so special. They have helped me realize being blind is not the worst thing," she said.
Most of the encouragement and assistance, however, comes from her husband. "Being an artist he was able to help in many ways," she said. He made a guiding device to help her separate the spools of floss so she can choose and combine colors.
Although she cannot see her work as she creates it, she guides her hands along the piece to feel if it flows and comes together.
One of her new pieces is called Prayer Posts, a display of seven 84-inch tall totems in an omega shape. Ms. Inman describes the work as "occupying and engaging space more actively with modular characteristics" than her earlier works.
Ms. Strunck's work reflects a strong spiritual influence as well as inner strength and rich vision. But she wants her story to be about the power of art and "not about me."
Art has lessened her pain. "Art is soothing and calming," she said. "I am thankful to do what I do. I have a very good life."
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TexasStooge
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Academy of elite scientists looks to raise state's profile
Newly formed group aims to attract grants, as well as rising stars
By LAURA BEIL / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - The stars of Texas science gathered in a Las Colinas ballroom Thursday for a combination research briefing, strategy session and pep rally.
The meeting of The Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas would have been a science groupie's dream, if scientists had groupies. Membership in the academy is restricted to Nobel laureates and members of the most elite legions in science: the National Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Medicine and the National Academy of Engineering.
Formed last year with U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison as catalyst, the Texas academy hopes to boost the state's profile and ability to attract grants. Even without the work of the academy, Texas has gotten record amounts of research money, Ms. Hutchison said at the meeting, and now ranks third among states in funding.
"We are now closer to our rightful place," she said.
The more than 200 researchers in the new group are also concerned about those not yet in their club. During the meeting, Ms. Hutchison announced a new award for rising scientists. Called the Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award, after Dallas philanthropist Peter O'Donnell Jr. and his wife, it will be a $25,000 grant given to three researchers each year in the fields of medicine, science and engineering.
Mr. O'Donnell, who is a frequent contributor to higher education and other causes, provided the initial $500,000 in seed money for an endowment that will fund the award (the other $1.5 million for the endowment was raised from various donors throughout the state).
Dr. Michael Brown of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas said he and his colleagues worry about recruiting and encouraging their younger colleagues. Members of the Texas academy were asked to invite a protégé to Thursday's meeting at the Omni Mandalay Hotel.
"We didn't just want it to be a meeting of old folks," said Dr. Brown, who received a Nobel Prize for his research in cholesterol metabolism.
During the meeting's keynote address, the director of the National Institutes of Health also expressed concern that the brightest minds – those with the freshest enthusiasm and ideas – be attracted to science. "I don't know of any other way science advances," Dr. Elias Zerhouni told the group.
The scientists questioned Dr. Zerhouni about the Bush administration's policy on research involving embryonic stem cells. Federal funding is restricted to those stem cell lines that existed at the time the president announced his policy in 2001.
Many researchers believe these cells might one day be the key to treating degenerative diseases like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. However, the research is controversial because it involves human embryos.
Dr. Zerhouni said he didn't know whether the policy might be revisited and that the NIH, and its $28 billion budget, answers to Congress and the president. Ms. Hutchison has said she prefers that the embryonic stem cell policy be revisited.
The academy meeting continues through today, when the keynote speaker will be outgoing NASA administrator Sean O'Keefe.
Newly formed group aims to attract grants, as well as rising stars
By LAURA BEIL / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - The stars of Texas science gathered in a Las Colinas ballroom Thursday for a combination research briefing, strategy session and pep rally.
The meeting of The Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas would have been a science groupie's dream, if scientists had groupies. Membership in the academy is restricted to Nobel laureates and members of the most elite legions in science: the National Academy of Sciences, the Institute of Medicine and the National Academy of Engineering.
Formed last year with U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison as catalyst, the Texas academy hopes to boost the state's profile and ability to attract grants. Even without the work of the academy, Texas has gotten record amounts of research money, Ms. Hutchison said at the meeting, and now ranks third among states in funding.
"We are now closer to our rightful place," she said.
The more than 200 researchers in the new group are also concerned about those not yet in their club. During the meeting, Ms. Hutchison announced a new award for rising scientists. Called the Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award, after Dallas philanthropist Peter O'Donnell Jr. and his wife, it will be a $25,000 grant given to three researchers each year in the fields of medicine, science and engineering.
Mr. O'Donnell, who is a frequent contributor to higher education and other causes, provided the initial $500,000 in seed money for an endowment that will fund the award (the other $1.5 million for the endowment was raised from various donors throughout the state).
Dr. Michael Brown of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas said he and his colleagues worry about recruiting and encouraging their younger colleagues. Members of the Texas academy were asked to invite a protégé to Thursday's meeting at the Omni Mandalay Hotel.
"We didn't just want it to be a meeting of old folks," said Dr. Brown, who received a Nobel Prize for his research in cholesterol metabolism.
During the meeting's keynote address, the director of the National Institutes of Health also expressed concern that the brightest minds – those with the freshest enthusiasm and ideas – be attracted to science. "I don't know of any other way science advances," Dr. Elias Zerhouni told the group.
The scientists questioned Dr. Zerhouni about the Bush administration's policy on research involving embryonic stem cells. Federal funding is restricted to those stem cell lines that existed at the time the president announced his policy in 2001.
Many researchers believe these cells might one day be the key to treating degenerative diseases like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's. However, the research is controversial because it involves human embryos.
Dr. Zerhouni said he didn't know whether the policy might be revisited and that the NIH, and its $28 billion budget, answers to Congress and the president. Ms. Hutchison has said she prefers that the embryonic stem cell policy be revisited.
The academy meeting continues through today, when the keynote speaker will be outgoing NASA administrator Sean O'Keefe.
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City wants new visibility for restaurant scores
By CHRIS HEINBAUGH / WFAA-TV
DALLAS, Texas - City of Dallas officials want an easier way for consumers to check out health inspection scores for local restaurants.
Officials promote the fact they are posted on the city's Web site, but some consumers ask: why not put them right at the front door?
Every restaurant in Dallas is inspected at least twice a year to make sure it's clean, that food is handled properly and what they serve up is safe to eat.
Among the changes OKed by a City Council committee on Monday include listing the restaurants by name, type, location and score online at DallasCityHall.com. Council members hope that will also include a new A, B or C scoring system.
"Looking at the letter grade will make it easy for a customer to know whether or not that restaurant is in the top group of a restaurants in how they deal with health and safety codes, or whether it is not," said council member Lois Finkelman.
Customers seem to like having the information on the web.
"The food looks good, but is it safe for us to eat? That's what we need to know," said customer Marshetta Wheeler.
While finding the city's inspection scores on the Internet will soon be easier, one thing the committee did not do is require the restaurants to post the scores right on the front door for every customer to see.
Restaurants have strongly resisted this, saying the scores are confusing and misleading.
"Our belief is a restaurant is fit to be open, or not fit to be open," said Jeff Frankel of the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association. "To rank a restaurant again creates an unfair playing advantage for our restaurants."
Other major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago require their restaurants to post their scores right on the front door; some customers here think Dallas should too.
"Absolutely they should put it right up front," customer Kerry Kodatt said. "They put their menus out front, they put their prices out front ... might as well let you know its safe out front."
City officials said they haven't ruled that out, but for now consumers will have to rely on the web before sitting down to eat.
By CHRIS HEINBAUGH / WFAA-TV
DALLAS, Texas - City of Dallas officials want an easier way for consumers to check out health inspection scores for local restaurants.
Officials promote the fact they are posted on the city's Web site, but some consumers ask: why not put them right at the front door?
Every restaurant in Dallas is inspected at least twice a year to make sure it's clean, that food is handled properly and what they serve up is safe to eat.
Among the changes OKed by a City Council committee on Monday include listing the restaurants by name, type, location and score online at DallasCityHall.com. Council members hope that will also include a new A, B or C scoring system.
"Looking at the letter grade will make it easy for a customer to know whether or not that restaurant is in the top group of a restaurants in how they deal with health and safety codes, or whether it is not," said council member Lois Finkelman.
Customers seem to like having the information on the web.
"The food looks good, but is it safe for us to eat? That's what we need to know," said customer Marshetta Wheeler.
While finding the city's inspection scores on the Internet will soon be easier, one thing the committee did not do is require the restaurants to post the scores right on the front door for every customer to see.
Restaurants have strongly resisted this, saying the scores are confusing and misleading.
"Our belief is a restaurant is fit to be open, or not fit to be open," said Jeff Frankel of the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association. "To rank a restaurant again creates an unfair playing advantage for our restaurants."
Other major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago require their restaurants to post their scores right on the front door; some customers here think Dallas should too.
"Absolutely they should put it right up front," customer Kerry Kodatt said. "They put their menus out front, they put their prices out front ... might as well let you know its safe out front."
City officials said they haven't ruled that out, but for now consumers will have to rely on the web before sitting down to eat.
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Local weather a lesson in extremes
It's warm, it's cold, and premature spring stirring up allergies
By MICHAEL E. YOUNG / The Dallas Morning News
North Texas winters can be filled with surprises, and there's no real surprise in that.
But the last several weeks pushed the usual warm-cold cycles to another level. With warms notably warmer than usual – average temperatures were up 2 degrees in December and almost 10 so far in January – the colds, by comparison, feel even colder.
Click here for full story in the US Weather Forum.
It's warm, it's cold, and premature spring stirring up allergies
By MICHAEL E. YOUNG / The Dallas Morning News
North Texas winters can be filled with surprises, and there's no real surprise in that.
But the last several weeks pushed the usual warm-cold cycles to another level. With warms notably warmer than usual – average temperatures were up 2 degrees in December and almost 10 so far in January – the colds, by comparison, feel even colder.
Click here for full story in the US Weather Forum.
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TEA: 'Zero tolerance' for cheating
By MACIE JEPSON / WFAA ABC 8
Texas Education Agency (TEA) officials said Monday the agency will hire an outsider to audit the state's test security measures, and come up with a plan to better monitor irregularities in test scores.
The announcement comes after a Dallas Morning News investigation discovered strong evidence that educators helped students cheat on the TAKS at more than 400 schools statewide.
State Commissioner of Education Shirley Neeley said Texas has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to cheating. While Neeley said she believes Texas teachers are largely honest, she said the state will weed out those who are not.
"When an adult gives answers to a child on a test, that child is clearly the one being cheated," Neeley said. "I want you to know that cheating on the test, assisting someone else who is cheating on the test or failure to report cheating can be a career-ending experience for any educator."
Besides a teacher now looking over students' shoulders during test time, a testing expert will now be looking for irregularities as well as better ways to prevent and detect cheating.
Interim Dallas ISD superintendent Larry Groppel was with commissioner Neeley for the announcement. Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston are among the districts currently investigating dozens of schools for allegations of TAKS cheating.
Still, after nearly 25 years of state testing, Neeley defends the integrity of Texas teachers.
"It found no problems with the other 7,500 campuses in the state, and no problems with the tests taken by most of the three million children tested this year," Neeley said.
Right now, teachers must sign an oath to uphold test security. Test booklets are sealed and kept in a secure location, and each has unique security numbers for tracking. That won't change.
Still, Aimee Bolender of teachers' union Alliance-AFT said problems can be expected with high-stakes testing, especially if results are one day linked to teacher evaluations.
"The total emphasis is 'test, test, test,' and that increases those stakes more and more," Bolender said. "As a result I think we're moving into a new range of unfortunate behavior."
Teachers will soon receive a reminder letter, outlining the consequences of cheating. The state will place restrictions on the offender's teaching certificate, issue a reprimand or suspension, or revoke the teacher's certificate altogether.
By MACIE JEPSON / WFAA ABC 8
Texas Education Agency (TEA) officials said Monday the agency will hire an outsider to audit the state's test security measures, and come up with a plan to better monitor irregularities in test scores.
The announcement comes after a Dallas Morning News investigation discovered strong evidence that educators helped students cheat on the TAKS at more than 400 schools statewide.
State Commissioner of Education Shirley Neeley said Texas has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to cheating. While Neeley said she believes Texas teachers are largely honest, she said the state will weed out those who are not.
"When an adult gives answers to a child on a test, that child is clearly the one being cheated," Neeley said. "I want you to know that cheating on the test, assisting someone else who is cheating on the test or failure to report cheating can be a career-ending experience for any educator."
Besides a teacher now looking over students' shoulders during test time, a testing expert will now be looking for irregularities as well as better ways to prevent and detect cheating.
Interim Dallas ISD superintendent Larry Groppel was with commissioner Neeley for the announcement. Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston are among the districts currently investigating dozens of schools for allegations of TAKS cheating.
Still, after nearly 25 years of state testing, Neeley defends the integrity of Texas teachers.
"It found no problems with the other 7,500 campuses in the state, and no problems with the tests taken by most of the three million children tested this year," Neeley said.
Right now, teachers must sign an oath to uphold test security. Test booklets are sealed and kept in a secure location, and each has unique security numbers for tracking. That won't change.
Still, Aimee Bolender of teachers' union Alliance-AFT said problems can be expected with high-stakes testing, especially if results are one day linked to teacher evaluations.
"The total emphasis is 'test, test, test,' and that increases those stakes more and more," Bolender said. "As a result I think we're moving into a new range of unfortunate behavior."
Teachers will soon receive a reminder letter, outlining the consequences of cheating. The state will place restrictions on the offender's teaching certificate, issue a reprimand or suspension, or revoke the teacher's certificate altogether.
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TexasStooge
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Custody deal near in slain baby case
CPS will release Plano girl's sisters to dad if judge gives go-ahead
By TIARA M. ELLIS / The Dallas Morning News
PLANO, Texas - The husband of a Plano woman charged with cutting off her baby's arms could receive custody of the couple's two surviving daughters if a judge agrees to a tentative agreement reached Monday, said attorneys involved with the case.
John Schlosser and his attorney, Howard Shapiro, met with Child Protective Services officials and lawyers Monday morning. They agreed that the girls – ages 6 and 9 – should be placed in their father's care if his sister, who lives in New York, agrees to move to Texas to help with the transition, the attorneys said.
The two girls have been in CPS custody since their sister's death in November. The Dallas Morning News is not naming the girls to protect their identities.
"I think everyone wants the kids reunited with John," Mr. Shapiro said. "There seems to be no impediment to that. Everyone is being very cautious to be sure the kids are given the best environment possible."
CPS spokeswoman Marissa Gonzales said she had not been told of the agreement. But if there were a deal, she wouldn't discuss it without the final approval of a judge.
State District Judge Cynthia Wheless is scheduled to supervise the custody hearing and consider the agreement Wednesday.
Dena Schlosser, 35, was charged with capital murder in the death of her 10-month-old daughter, Margaret, after telling a police officer and 911 dispatcher that she had severed the child's arms.
The day before her daughter's death, Mrs. Schlosser had told her husband that she wanted to "give her child to God," according to police.
In court documents, CPS officials have alleged that Mr. Schlosser did not protect Margaret from his wife.
Mr. Schlosser has declined to comment. But Mr. Shapiro said that as people get to know Mr. Schlosser, they will realize that he's a good man.
Court records show that Mr. Schlosser will begin parenting classes this month and that he started counseling last month. He has attended weekly visitations with his children and undergone a psychological evaluation.
Terri Daniel, Mrs. Schlosser's attorney for the custody hearing, said she wasn't at Monday's meeting but was told about the agreement by the children's attorney, Loretta Keller.
Ms. Keller could not be reached for comment.
Mr. Schlosser's sister plans to fly to Texas by Monday, said Mr. Shapiro, who would not give her name.
"She's volunteered, and everybody, including John, agrees that [the girls] have enough issues going on right now," Mr. Shapiro said. "She will help them get that stability in the home. She loves the girls."
CPS will release Plano girl's sisters to dad if judge gives go-ahead
By TIARA M. ELLIS / The Dallas Morning News
PLANO, Texas - The husband of a Plano woman charged with cutting off her baby's arms could receive custody of the couple's two surviving daughters if a judge agrees to a tentative agreement reached Monday, said attorneys involved with the case.
John Schlosser and his attorney, Howard Shapiro, met with Child Protective Services officials and lawyers Monday morning. They agreed that the girls – ages 6 and 9 – should be placed in their father's care if his sister, who lives in New York, agrees to move to Texas to help with the transition, the attorneys said.
The two girls have been in CPS custody since their sister's death in November. The Dallas Morning News is not naming the girls to protect their identities.
"I think everyone wants the kids reunited with John," Mr. Shapiro said. "There seems to be no impediment to that. Everyone is being very cautious to be sure the kids are given the best environment possible."
CPS spokeswoman Marissa Gonzales said she had not been told of the agreement. But if there were a deal, she wouldn't discuss it without the final approval of a judge.
State District Judge Cynthia Wheless is scheduled to supervise the custody hearing and consider the agreement Wednesday.
Dena Schlosser, 35, was charged with capital murder in the death of her 10-month-old daughter, Margaret, after telling a police officer and 911 dispatcher that she had severed the child's arms.
The day before her daughter's death, Mrs. Schlosser had told her husband that she wanted to "give her child to God," according to police.
In court documents, CPS officials have alleged that Mr. Schlosser did not protect Margaret from his wife.
Mr. Schlosser has declined to comment. But Mr. Shapiro said that as people get to know Mr. Schlosser, they will realize that he's a good man.
Court records show that Mr. Schlosser will begin parenting classes this month and that he started counseling last month. He has attended weekly visitations with his children and undergone a psychological evaluation.
Terri Daniel, Mrs. Schlosser's attorney for the custody hearing, said she wasn't at Monday's meeting but was told about the agreement by the children's attorney, Loretta Keller.
Ms. Keller could not be reached for comment.
Mr. Schlosser's sister plans to fly to Texas by Monday, said Mr. Shapiro, who would not give her name.
"She's volunteered, and everybody, including John, agrees that [the girls] have enough issues going on right now," Mr. Shapiro said. "She will help them get that stability in the home. She loves the girls."
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TexasStooge
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Police Warn Of ATM Card Skimming
Device Attached To ATM Records Card Data
FORT WORTH, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Police say criminals are using a practice called skimming to steal bank customers' ATM information.
Dallas' Amy Seidner is one of the latest victims of credit card skimming. Seidner's bank noticed several big withdrawals and believe Seidner's ATM card was skimmed.
"There were charges on my account from an ATM withdrawal in Las Vegas, you know, $500, $500, $400. I was not in Las Vegas," said Seidner.
To skim, thieves use a high-tech device that fits over the ATM card slot. The device reads the card information before it actually slides into the ATM. Investigators said that theives also will often use a hidden camera in a brochure or envelope box to record customers typing in their pin number.
Thieves then return to the ATM later and retrieve their equipment, and many customers' sensitive data.
Officials say to watch for an odd-shaped box affixed to the card slot of the ATM, and say that if you think an ATM has been tampered with, to notify the bank.
Device Attached To ATM Records Card Data
FORT WORTH, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Police say criminals are using a practice called skimming to steal bank customers' ATM information.
Dallas' Amy Seidner is one of the latest victims of credit card skimming. Seidner's bank noticed several big withdrawals and believe Seidner's ATM card was skimmed.
"There were charges on my account from an ATM withdrawal in Las Vegas, you know, $500, $500, $400. I was not in Las Vegas," said Seidner.
To skim, thieves use a high-tech device that fits over the ATM card slot. The device reads the card information before it actually slides into the ATM. Investigators said that theives also will often use a hidden camera in a brochure or envelope box to record customers typing in their pin number.
Thieves then return to the ATM later and retrieve their equipment, and many customers' sensitive data.
Officials say to watch for an odd-shaped box affixed to the card slot of the ATM, and say that if you think an ATM has been tampered with, to notify the bank.
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Dallas Police: Robbery Motive In Deadly Shooting
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Dallas police say robbery was the motive in a deadly shooting early Tuesday.
Investigators said two men went to the victims' apartment in the Barclay Square Apartments in the 8100 block of Barclay Street at about 3 a.m.
An argument broke out, and that's when two or three more men burst in and started shooting.
Police don't believe the victim knew about the other suspects waiting outside, but think he was the target since his girlfriend was not injured.
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Dallas police say robbery was the motive in a deadly shooting early Tuesday.
Investigators said two men went to the victims' apartment in the Barclay Square Apartments in the 8100 block of Barclay Street at about 3 a.m.
An argument broke out, and that's when two or three more men burst in and started shooting.
Police don't believe the victim knew about the other suspects waiting outside, but think he was the target since his girlfriend was not injured.
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TexasStooge
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'Pennies Of Promise' Campaign Raising Money For Tsunami Victims
Students To Raise $1,500
KELLER, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Several North Texas students in Keller are helping in the tsunami relief effort.
The "Pennies of Promise" campaign is teaching Keller Independent School District students about the realities of the tragedy while raising money for the victims relief funds.
Schools in Keller are collecting 150,000 pennies, one for each victim reported dead.
Once completed, the money will go to the Red Cross.
Students To Raise $1,500
KELLER, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Several North Texas students in Keller are helping in the tsunami relief effort.
The "Pennies of Promise" campaign is teaching Keller Independent School District students about the realities of the tragedy while raising money for the victims relief funds.
Schools in Keller are collecting 150,000 pennies, one for each victim reported dead.
Once completed, the money will go to the Red Cross.
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TexasStooge
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Dallas', Operation: Kitchen Sink, Concludes
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Operation: Kitchen Sink is over and now some Dallas neighbors question if that means thieves will soon be making a comeback.
Last month, Dallas police moved into an apartment complex near Forest Lane and Audelia Road to crack down on crime. Police said the operation was a success and officers arrested 50 people on felony charges.
The program ended on Sunday, leaving residents with a lot of questions and concerns over the future of their neighborhood.
Police assured residents they will continue to monitor the area and hope new neighborhood watch groups will help keep crime in check.
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Operation: Kitchen Sink is over and now some Dallas neighbors question if that means thieves will soon be making a comeback.
Last month, Dallas police moved into an apartment complex near Forest Lane and Audelia Road to crack down on crime. Police said the operation was a success and officers arrested 50 people on felony charges.
The program ended on Sunday, leaving residents with a lot of questions and concerns over the future of their neighborhood.
Police assured residents they will continue to monitor the area and hope new neighborhood watch groups will help keep crime in check.
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TexasStooge
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FBI Hunting North Texas Bank Robber
FORT WORTH, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- The FBI is hoping to identify a bank robber who held up a SouthTrust Bank in Fort Worth last weekend.
Agents said the man didn't cover up his face and hope someone will come forward and identify the man.
Security photos show the robber in action at the bank last Saturday in Southwest Fort Worth. Tellers said the man visited the bank about 30 minutes before the heist and then returned, demanding money.
Investigators said the robber showed a gun but no one was injured.
FORT WORTH, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- The FBI is hoping to identify a bank robber who held up a SouthTrust Bank in Fort Worth last weekend.
Agents said the man didn't cover up his face and hope someone will come forward and identify the man.
Security photos show the robber in action at the bank last Saturday in Southwest Fort Worth. Tellers said the man visited the bank about 30 minutes before the heist and then returned, demanding money.
Investigators said the robber showed a gun but no one was injured.
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TexasStooge
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Dallas Couple Survive Tsunami, Help Victims
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Dr. Chrisette Dharma and her husband, Sanjay Pamurthi, were in Sri Lanka during late December to visit family and friends. They were driving near a beach when they noticed a strange surge in the sea.
"He said, "Look at the water.' And I said, "Oh, yeah, there's water all along the beach,' " Dharma said. "Very soon thereafter, we were hit by the wave."
The tsunami hit the couple's van and pushed it about 150 feet before it slammed the vehicle into a concrete wall.
"I think that was the scariest moment when you're in the car and the water has you, and I was like, 'Get out of the car. Get out of the car!' " Dharma said.
The couple exited the vehicle and ran to higher ground. From there, they watched the water surge over the area below their perch. They also videotaped the scene.
"From that vantage point, you could see this was a ferocious amount of water," Pamurthi said.
After the first wave, there were, like, women who were just being held up by people, crying and screaming for their children," Dharma said.
The couple's thoughts turned to helping people who were injured during the tsunami strike. Dharma and her husband set up a clinic to treat the physically and emotionally wounded.
"It's not really about saving lives," Dharma said. "It's really about touching people's lives. We went and bought supplies like water, food rations and clothing."
Pamurthi said even though the couple witnessed one of the worst natural disasters in recent memory, the couple also saw some of the best humanity can offer.
"We saw very, very good people just helping us even though they had lost their family members," he said.
None of Dharma's family members died during the tsunami.
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Dr. Chrisette Dharma and her husband, Sanjay Pamurthi, were in Sri Lanka during late December to visit family and friends. They were driving near a beach when they noticed a strange surge in the sea.
"He said, "Look at the water.' And I said, "Oh, yeah, there's water all along the beach,' " Dharma said. "Very soon thereafter, we were hit by the wave."
The tsunami hit the couple's van and pushed it about 150 feet before it slammed the vehicle into a concrete wall.
"I think that was the scariest moment when you're in the car and the water has you, and I was like, 'Get out of the car. Get out of the car!' " Dharma said.
The couple exited the vehicle and ran to higher ground. From there, they watched the water surge over the area below their perch. They also videotaped the scene.
"From that vantage point, you could see this was a ferocious amount of water," Pamurthi said.
After the first wave, there were, like, women who were just being held up by people, crying and screaming for their children," Dharma said.
The couple's thoughts turned to helping people who were injured during the tsunami strike. Dharma and her husband set up a clinic to treat the physically and emotionally wounded.
"It's not really about saving lives," Dharma said. "It's really about touching people's lives. We went and bought supplies like water, food rations and clothing."
Pamurthi said even though the couple witnessed one of the worst natural disasters in recent memory, the couple also saw some of the best humanity can offer.
"We saw very, very good people just helping us even though they had lost their family members," he said.
None of Dharma's family members died during the tsunami.
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TexasStooge
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Hit-And-Run Crash Flips Big Rig, Spills Groceries On I-20
Cleanup On I-20 Necessary Before Truck Uprighted
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Two lanes of Interstate 20 in Dallas are now open after a hit-and-run crash involving a semitrailer truck.
Investigators said a car clipped the truck's front end causing the big rig to flip over at I-20 at Bonnie View at about 11 p.m. Monday.
The 18-wheeler spilled its load of groceries.
It took several hours for a wrecker to show up.
Crews had to pick up all the groceries so they could flip the truck back on its side.
The truck driver and passenger suffered cuts and bruises.
Police have not caught the driver who caused the accident.
Cleanup On I-20 Necessary Before Truck Uprighted
DALLAS, Texas (KXAS NBC 5) -- Two lanes of Interstate 20 in Dallas are now open after a hit-and-run crash involving a semitrailer truck.
Investigators said a car clipped the truck's front end causing the big rig to flip over at I-20 at Bonnie View at about 11 p.m. Monday.
The 18-wheeler spilled its load of groceries.
It took several hours for a wrecker to show up.
Crews had to pick up all the groceries so they could flip the truck back on its side.
The truck driver and passenger suffered cuts and bruises.
Police have not caught the driver who caused the accident.
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TexasStooge
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New information in search for Sanger woman
SANGER, Texas (KTVT CBS 11) - There's new information today in the search for a missing Sanger woman.
43-year-old Katherine Lynn Stobaugh was last seen on December 28th.
Her car was found in her ex-husband's driveway in Denton County.
Police say when the investigation began, Stobaugh's husband Charles was very cooperative.
But since then, he has revoked permission for police to search his Denton County property... And hired an attorney.
Katherine Stobaugh filed for divorce last May... And got a restraining order against her ex-husband.
If you have information about katherine Stobaugh's whereabouts ... You're asked to crimestoppers at 1-800-388-TIPS.
SANGER, Texas (KTVT CBS 11) - There's new information today in the search for a missing Sanger woman.
43-year-old Katherine Lynn Stobaugh was last seen on December 28th.
Her car was found in her ex-husband's driveway in Denton County.
Police say when the investigation began, Stobaugh's husband Charles was very cooperative.
But since then, he has revoked permission for police to search his Denton County property... And hired an attorney.
Katherine Stobaugh filed for divorce last May... And got a restraining order against her ex-husband.
If you have information about katherine Stobaugh's whereabouts ... You're asked to crimestoppers at 1-800-388-TIPS.
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Dallas man sent to prison for mutilating Chihuahua
DALLAS, Texas (KTVT CBS 11) - A Dallas man will spend 6 years in prison for mutilating a Chihuahua during a burglary.
Ray Cornelius Perkerson pleaded guilty today to breaking into an apartment last year.
He admitted stealing a TV, a DVD player, and some clothes.
And he told police he killed the dog as a message to the woman who lived there.
He said she owed him money for drugs.
Officer Kenneth Chapin from the Dallas Police Department says, "We asked him why the dog was in that shape, he responded that in some sentiment, that he needed to send a message to her that you don't steal from me, you don't not pay me back."
The dog's owner told CBS 11 news he believes the sentence was too light.
He says nothing will replace his dog.
DALLAS, Texas (KTVT CBS 11) - A Dallas man will spend 6 years in prison for mutilating a Chihuahua during a burglary.
Ray Cornelius Perkerson pleaded guilty today to breaking into an apartment last year.
He admitted stealing a TV, a DVD player, and some clothes.
And he told police he killed the dog as a message to the woman who lived there.
He said she owed him money for drugs.
Officer Kenneth Chapin from the Dallas Police Department says, "We asked him why the dog was in that shape, he responded that in some sentiment, that he needed to send a message to her that you don't steal from me, you don't not pay me back."
The dog's owner told CBS 11 news he believes the sentence was too light.
He says nothing will replace his dog.
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Police find clue in robbery spree
By CYNTHIA VEGA and REBECCA LOPEZ / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - A stolen car could provide important clues in the search for a team of holdup men targeting victims in their driveways.
Police recovered a red Mustang overnight in East Dallas that may be linked to the crime spree involving at least nine holdups in south and west Dallas. In each case, victims said the armed suspects demanded money and jewelry.
The Mustang that was found abandoned in the 4900 block of Terry Street matched the description of a car that was stolen in one of the holdups from Michael Sabatini.
"I had gotten out of the car," Sabatini said. "As I got out of the vehicle, he was getting out of the passenger side, and met me. He told me I was moving too quickly, and that's when he reached into my pocket and took my cash, and reached into the other pocket and took my wallet and took my watch."
"They get in there and seem to get what they need, and then they are gone again," said Dallas Police Lt. Jan Easterling. "They are very quick in their actions."
Easterling said all of the cases involve a black male suspect and a Latin male suspect; police are now combing the affected areas for the suspects.
On Saturday they carjacked a man, on Sunday they robbed two people and Monday night they hit four places in less than two hours.
Police hope to find important clues in the abandoned Mustang.
"They get in there and seem to get what they need, and then they are gone again," said Dallas Police Lt. Jan Easterling. "They are very quick in their actions."
Easterling said all of the cases involve a black male suspect and a Latin male suspect; police are now combing the affected areas for the suspects. "(They) are armed and dangerous," she said.
Sabatini fears the robbers will come back, so he spent the day Tuesday putting security lights around his house.
"No matter how safe you are, or how safe you think you are, you are just not safe enough," he said.
By CYNTHIA VEGA and REBECCA LOPEZ / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - A stolen car could provide important clues in the search for a team of holdup men targeting victims in their driveways.
Police recovered a red Mustang overnight in East Dallas that may be linked to the crime spree involving at least nine holdups in south and west Dallas. In each case, victims said the armed suspects demanded money and jewelry.
The Mustang that was found abandoned in the 4900 block of Terry Street matched the description of a car that was stolen in one of the holdups from Michael Sabatini.
"I had gotten out of the car," Sabatini said. "As I got out of the vehicle, he was getting out of the passenger side, and met me. He told me I was moving too quickly, and that's when he reached into my pocket and took my cash, and reached into the other pocket and took my wallet and took my watch."
"They get in there and seem to get what they need, and then they are gone again," said Dallas Police Lt. Jan Easterling. "They are very quick in their actions."
Easterling said all of the cases involve a black male suspect and a Latin male suspect; police are now combing the affected areas for the suspects.
On Saturday they carjacked a man, on Sunday they robbed two people and Monday night they hit four places in less than two hours.
Police hope to find important clues in the abandoned Mustang.
"They get in there and seem to get what they need, and then they are gone again," said Dallas Police Lt. Jan Easterling. "They are very quick in their actions."
Easterling said all of the cases involve a black male suspect and a Latin male suspect; police are now combing the affected areas for the suspects. "(They) are armed and dangerous," she said.
Sabatini fears the robbers will come back, so he spent the day Tuesday putting security lights around his house.
"No matter how safe you are, or how safe you think you are, you are just not safe enough," he said.
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