5 killed on Irving roads since the start of 2006
Two died Tuesday in separate crashes a mile apart
By BRANDON FORMBY / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas - Irving police are hoping it's not a sign of the future: Five people died in car accidents in the city in the first 18 days of 2006.
"Our fatalities had been going down, and then all of a sudden we have this," said Officer David Tull, spokesman for Irving police.
The fourth and fifth accident-related deaths happened within hours and about one mile of each other Tuesday night.
About 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, a 24-year-old Dallas man driving a Chevrolet Malibu was eastbound on Airport Freeway east of Loop 12. Police said the man, whose name has not been released, tried to avoid a car that switched into his lane and struck the center median barrier.
That impact forced the Malibu back into traffic, where it struck a Nissan Pathfinder. The Pathfinder, driven by 64-year-old Bobby Dempsey of Rockwall, then rolled several times. Mr. Dempsey was taken to Parkland Memorial Hospital where he died, police said.
Officer Tull said witnesses told police that they saw the Malibu speeding before the crash. The driver of the Malibu was not injured. His two passengers had minor injuries but did not require treatment. Officer Tull said police are investigating the accident and have not filed charges. Alcohol did not appear to be a factor, he said.
Hours later, a Dallas man died in an accident in the same area. Darren Stacy Lee, 35, of Dallas was eastbound on Airport Freeway and exited onto the ramp connecting that highway to Spur 482. Mr. Lee lost control of his Chevrolet Silverado pickup, which slid off the road and struck a bridge pillar. He died at the scene, police said. He had no passengers, and no other cars were involved. Officer Tull said speed may have been a factor.
The first fatality of the year came early Jan. 1. Tow-truck driver Juan Guzman, 30, of Plano was struck by a passing car in the 400 block of West Airport Freeway while loading a vehicle. Charles Lamon Hicks Jr., 19, has been charged with manslaughter in the accident.
On Jan. 9, Krystopher Alexander, 19, died after a head-on collision on Belt Line Road between State Highway 161 and Valley View Lane. Police said Mr. Alexander was racing another car in the northbound lanes when he lost control of his Honda Civic, crossed a 20-foot grassy median and collided with a minivan in the southbound lanes. The man driving the minivan was seriously injured.
The year's third fatality came Sunday when an Azle woman died at Methodist Dallas Medical Center from injuries suffered in an accident Friday in Irving. Avelia Maria Wallace, 48, was driving a Ford Ranger pickup southbound on the State Highway 161 service road about 9:45 p.m.
Officer Tull said the driver of a Toyota Camry eastbound on the State Highway 114 service road ran a red light and struck Ms. Wallace's truck. Officer Tull said Ms. Wallace, who was not wearing a seat belt, was partially ejected. Officer Tull said the driver of the Camry, whose name has not been released, could face charges.
Irving police did not make available Wednesday the number of traffic fatalities in 2005.
News from the Lone Star State
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Cameras to overlook crime in downtown
By GARY REAVES / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - Some may see it as the cold stare of Big Brother, while others will see it as a warm security blanket.
No matter which way people view the concept, after successfully testing security cameras in Deep Ellum, Dallas will soon also add cameras throughout downtown to keep an eye on crime.
Michael Zambrana said he is one of those that see the cameras as a safety net.
Downtown foot traffic is the lifeblood of the Urban Market on Jackson Street, which Zambrana invested $4 million into in the hopes that the combination bar, restaurant and grocery store would help build downtown into a buzzing neighborhood.
"The fact that somebody's watching will keep the folks who are there to do harm away from the area," he said.
Last year, Dallas put cameras up in Deep Ellum for five months and saw crime drop 90 percent. Police have been searching for funds to expand the project but had little luck.
However, sources said an official announcement Friday will reveal that the Meadows Foundation will announce a grant of over $800,000 that will pay for at least 30 cameras to be monitored by police in both the central business district and the West End.
Police Chief David Kunkle refused to confirm details, but said he is excited by the possibilities.
"We're going to monitor the cameras, and if we see crime we will dispatch officers to specific locations, specific suspects and specific vehicles," he said.
Many downtown residents also seemed eager about the prospect of a watchful eye on the streets.
David Alhadeff and his wife moved to downtown three months ago. While they said they feel safe, they also said the dark streets can seem intimidating and they wouldn't mind someone looking over them.
"There are some areas if you are out late at night, you have to think of your surroundings," Alhadeff said. "And I think any form of protection would be wonderful."
By GARY REAVES / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - Some may see it as the cold stare of Big Brother, while others will see it as a warm security blanket.
No matter which way people view the concept, after successfully testing security cameras in Deep Ellum, Dallas will soon also add cameras throughout downtown to keep an eye on crime.
Michael Zambrana said he is one of those that see the cameras as a safety net.
Downtown foot traffic is the lifeblood of the Urban Market on Jackson Street, which Zambrana invested $4 million into in the hopes that the combination bar, restaurant and grocery store would help build downtown into a buzzing neighborhood.
"The fact that somebody's watching will keep the folks who are there to do harm away from the area," he said.
Last year, Dallas put cameras up in Deep Ellum for five months and saw crime drop 90 percent. Police have been searching for funds to expand the project but had little luck.
However, sources said an official announcement Friday will reveal that the Meadows Foundation will announce a grant of over $800,000 that will pay for at least 30 cameras to be monitored by police in both the central business district and the West End.
Police Chief David Kunkle refused to confirm details, but said he is excited by the possibilities.
"We're going to monitor the cameras, and if we see crime we will dispatch officers to specific locations, specific suspects and specific vehicles," he said.
Many downtown residents also seemed eager about the prospect of a watchful eye on the streets.
David Alhadeff and his wife moved to downtown three months ago. While they said they feel safe, they also said the dark streets can seem intimidating and they wouldn't mind someone looking over them.
"There are some areas if you are out late at night, you have to think of your surroundings," Alhadeff said. "And I think any form of protection would be wonderful."
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Alleged burglary ring busted in Lewisville
By MARY ANN RAZZUK / WFAA ABC 8
LEWISVILLE, Texas - Another alleged burglary ring was put out of business Thursday in Lewisville.
Police said the group targeted storage units and apartment garages in the area.
Several storage facilities were found filled with stolen property ranging from a lawnmower to a sword.
"We have stereo equipment, there is a barbecue pit over here [and] we have a vacuum cleaner," said Richard Douglass, Lewisville Police Department. "There is just all kinds of equipment."
The bust also found items that were stolen from storage facilities and apartment complex garages.
Detectives said they believe they busted a burglary group that was responsible for up to 30 thefts, which included 15 committed in one night.
Thomas Raridon said his apartment garage was not among those broken into in his complex, but after hearing of the crimes said he will step ip security precautions.
"It's concerning because you would like to think you live in a safe neighborhood," he said.
Citizens tipped police to suspicious cars cruising in the apartment complex, and their investigation into the tips led them to the alleged stolen items and one arrest.
But detectives said more arrest could follow.
"Working all together, citizens calling in, networking with the police officers, the police officers going out and finding it," Douglass said of the chain of help the led to the bust. "This was really a good take."
For those that suspect stolen items found in the bust may belong to them, they can contact Lewisville police at (972) 219-3666.
By MARY ANN RAZZUK / WFAA ABC 8
LEWISVILLE, Texas - Another alleged burglary ring was put out of business Thursday in Lewisville.
Police said the group targeted storage units and apartment garages in the area.
Several storage facilities were found filled with stolen property ranging from a lawnmower to a sword.
"We have stereo equipment, there is a barbecue pit over here [and] we have a vacuum cleaner," said Richard Douglass, Lewisville Police Department. "There is just all kinds of equipment."
The bust also found items that were stolen from storage facilities and apartment complex garages.
Detectives said they believe they busted a burglary group that was responsible for up to 30 thefts, which included 15 committed in one night.
Thomas Raridon said his apartment garage was not among those broken into in his complex, but after hearing of the crimes said he will step ip security precautions.
"It's concerning because you would like to think you live in a safe neighborhood," he said.
Citizens tipped police to suspicious cars cruising in the apartment complex, and their investigation into the tips led them to the alleged stolen items and one arrest.
But detectives said more arrest could follow.
"Working all together, citizens calling in, networking with the police officers, the police officers going out and finding it," Douglass said of the chain of help the led to the bust. "This was really a good take."
For those that suspect stolen items found in the bust may belong to them, they can contact Lewisville police at (972) 219-3666.
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Cameras to overlook crime in downtown
By GARY REAVES / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - Some may see it as the cold stare of Big Brother, while others will see it as a warm security blanket.
No matter which way people view the concept, after successfully testing security cameras in Deep Ellum, Dallas will soon also add cameras throughout downtown to keep an eye on crime.
Michael Zambrana said he is one of those that see the cameras as a safety net.
Downtown foot traffic is the lifeblood of the Urban Market on Jackson Street, which Zambrana invested $4 million into in the hopes that the combination bar, restaurant and grocery store would help build downtown into a buzzing neighborhood.
"The fact that somebody's watching will keep the folks who are there to do harm away from the area," he said.
Last year, Dallas put cameras up in Deep Ellum for five months and saw crime drop 90 percent. Police have been searching for funds to expand the project but had little luck.
However, sources said an official announcement Friday will reveal that the Meadows Foundation will announce a grant of over $800,000 that will pay for at least 30 cameras to be monitored by police in both the central business district and the West End.
Police Chief David Kunkle refused to confirm details, but said he is excited by the possibilities.
"We're going to monitor the cameras, and if we see crime we will dispatch officers to specific locations, specific suspects and specific vehicles," he said.
Many downtown residents also seemed eager about the prospect of a watchful eye on the streets.
David Alhadeff and his wife moved to downtown three months ago. While they said they feel safe, they also said the dark streets can seem intimidating and they wouldn't mind someone looking over them.
"There are some areas if you are out late at night, you have to think of your surroundings," Alhadeff said. "And I think any form of protection would be wonderful."
By GARY REAVES / WFAA ABC 8
DALLAS, Texas - Some may see it as the cold stare of Big Brother, while others will see it as a warm security blanket.
No matter which way people view the concept, after successfully testing security cameras in Deep Ellum, Dallas will soon also add cameras throughout downtown to keep an eye on crime.
Michael Zambrana said he is one of those that see the cameras as a safety net.
Downtown foot traffic is the lifeblood of the Urban Market on Jackson Street, which Zambrana invested $4 million into in the hopes that the combination bar, restaurant and grocery store would help build downtown into a buzzing neighborhood.
"The fact that somebody's watching will keep the folks who are there to do harm away from the area," he said.
Last year, Dallas put cameras up in Deep Ellum for five months and saw crime drop 90 percent. Police have been searching for funds to expand the project but had little luck.
However, sources said an official announcement Friday will reveal that the Meadows Foundation will announce a grant of over $800,000 that will pay for at least 30 cameras to be monitored by police in both the central business district and the West End.
Police Chief David Kunkle refused to confirm details, but said he is excited by the possibilities.
"We're going to monitor the cameras, and if we see crime we will dispatch officers to specific locations, specific suspects and specific vehicles," he said.
Many downtown residents also seemed eager about the prospect of a watchful eye on the streets.
David Alhadeff and his wife moved to downtown three months ago. While they said they feel safe, they also said the dark streets can seem intimidating and they wouldn't mind someone looking over them.
"There are some areas if you are out late at night, you have to think of your surroundings," Alhadeff said. "And I think any form of protection would be wonderful."
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Body Solutions' collapse is SMU's gain
From The Dallas Morning News Staff Writers
The liquidation of the company that marketed the weight-loss products known as "Body Solutions" has resulted in a funding boost to expand consumer law services at Southern Methodist University.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott announced Thursday that the Dedman School of Law Civil Clinic would be receiving $360,000 to improve its outreach to Spanish-speaking consumers by providing legal referrals, teaching them about fraud and filing small claims court petitions, or even taking on cases for litigation.
The funds are part of the liquidation of Mark Nutritionals Inc., which is in Chapter 7 bankruptcy in San Antonio. The attorney general sued the company in December 2002, accusing it of widespread deceptive marketing practices.
The company filed for bankruptcy in September 2002 seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11. The case was converted to Chapter 7 liquidation in April 2003.
The attorney general suggested that the funds remaining in the case could best be used to advance consumer law education because it would be impossible to refund some $190 million to approximately 2 million consumers.
The University of Houston also will receive an award to supplement its consumer law program, bringing the total funding to $727,000.
From The Dallas Morning News Staff Writers
The liquidation of the company that marketed the weight-loss products known as "Body Solutions" has resulted in a funding boost to expand consumer law services at Southern Methodist University.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott announced Thursday that the Dedman School of Law Civil Clinic would be receiving $360,000 to improve its outreach to Spanish-speaking consumers by providing legal referrals, teaching them about fraud and filing small claims court petitions, or even taking on cases for litigation.
The funds are part of the liquidation of Mark Nutritionals Inc., which is in Chapter 7 bankruptcy in San Antonio. The attorney general sued the company in December 2002, accusing it of widespread deceptive marketing practices.
The company filed for bankruptcy in September 2002 seeking to reorganize under Chapter 11. The case was converted to Chapter 7 liquidation in April 2003.
The attorney general suggested that the funds remaining in the case could best be used to advance consumer law education because it would be impossible to refund some $190 million to approximately 2 million consumers.
The University of Houston also will receive an award to supplement its consumer law program, bringing the total funding to $727,000.
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Water plant work is causing a stink
The Colony: Foul smell from expanding facility may ease by March
By KEVIN KRAUSE / The Dallas Morning News
THE COLONY, Texas - When the wind blows from the north, Jack Richards and his wife cannot have friends or relatives over.
They can't go outside. They couldn't even sit outside to watch a Christmas parade.
The Richardses' house in The Colony is being invaded by a foul smell.
The culprit is a nearby wastewater treatment plant that is being expanded to accommodate new developments. City officials say that they are trying to minimize the smell but that there isn't anything more they can do about it.
"When it comes in from that north wind, your house is permeated with that stink for hours," said Mr. Richards, who has lived in the city for almost 27 years. "Since winter came, it's been real bad."
Mr. Richards and his neighbors in the northern part of the city will have to put up with the smell through at least March. That's when city officials said they may have the problem under control.
The odor is coming from the city's Stewart Creek Wastewater Treatment plant off Main Street and Lake Highlands Road. The city began work on the plant last February.
It will be completed by December, city engineers said in a news release.
City engineer Gordon Scruggs could not be reached Thursday for comment.
The $14 million project includes nitrification and phosphorus removal.
The city also is expanding the 26-year-old plant's treatment capacity from 2.3 million gallons of wastewater a day to 4.5 million gallons, according to the news release.
The increased capacity is necessary to handle wastewater from the Winwood Peninsula and the Austin Ranch residential development south of State Highway 121, council member Scott Ward said.
"Whenever you're going through any remodeling project, there will be some discomfort involved," he said. "We're doing a complete rehab of the plant."
The construction disrupted the treatment process at the plant, resulting in the bad smell, officials said in the news release.
The city had wanted to complete the improvements by late summer or fall of 2005, when warm weather would have helped along the wastewater treatment process with minimal odor. But delays in the permitting process resulted in the work being postponed.
In expanding the plant, the city had to comply with state environmental standards.
The improvements will allow the plant to handle wastewater treatment through 2013.
The work became necessary because of a lengthy dispute the city had with Frisco over a 1998 wastewater treatment agreement.
Frisco had agreed to allow sewage from The Colony to be treated at a Frisco plant. The Colony invested about $1 million in the project. But leaders from both cities were unable to agree about where to put pipelines that would carry the wastewater to Frisco's plant on Fourth Army Memorial Road.
According to a contract signed by both cities and the North Texas Municipal Water District, the Frisco plant was supposed to treat 500,000 gallons a day of The Colony's wastewater.
The agreement, however, never stipulated how to deliver it to the plant.
In 2003, state environmental regulators fined The Colony $16,000 for having too much ammonium nitrogen in treated water it released into Lewisville Lake. The city had two years to fix the problem or face more penalties.
With no end to the stalemate in sight, The Colony decided in 2004 to treat its own wastewater.
The Colony is involved in litigation with Frisco and the water district over the matter.
"The intention was to regionalize wastewater. The idea was that cities can pool money to build a larger plant to handle more flow," Mr. Ward said. "The plan was to eventually send all of our flow there. We put up our money and haven't been able to use it."
The Colony: Foul smell from expanding facility may ease by March
By KEVIN KRAUSE / The Dallas Morning News
THE COLONY, Texas - When the wind blows from the north, Jack Richards and his wife cannot have friends or relatives over.
They can't go outside. They couldn't even sit outside to watch a Christmas parade.
The Richardses' house in The Colony is being invaded by a foul smell.
The culprit is a nearby wastewater treatment plant that is being expanded to accommodate new developments. City officials say that they are trying to minimize the smell but that there isn't anything more they can do about it.
"When it comes in from that north wind, your house is permeated with that stink for hours," said Mr. Richards, who has lived in the city for almost 27 years. "Since winter came, it's been real bad."
Mr. Richards and his neighbors in the northern part of the city will have to put up with the smell through at least March. That's when city officials said they may have the problem under control.
The odor is coming from the city's Stewart Creek Wastewater Treatment plant off Main Street and Lake Highlands Road. The city began work on the plant last February.
It will be completed by December, city engineers said in a news release.
City engineer Gordon Scruggs could not be reached Thursday for comment.
The $14 million project includes nitrification and phosphorus removal.
The city also is expanding the 26-year-old plant's treatment capacity from 2.3 million gallons of wastewater a day to 4.5 million gallons, according to the news release.
The increased capacity is necessary to handle wastewater from the Winwood Peninsula and the Austin Ranch residential development south of State Highway 121, council member Scott Ward said.
"Whenever you're going through any remodeling project, there will be some discomfort involved," he said. "We're doing a complete rehab of the plant."
The construction disrupted the treatment process at the plant, resulting in the bad smell, officials said in the news release.
The city had wanted to complete the improvements by late summer or fall of 2005, when warm weather would have helped along the wastewater treatment process with minimal odor. But delays in the permitting process resulted in the work being postponed.
In expanding the plant, the city had to comply with state environmental standards.
The improvements will allow the plant to handle wastewater treatment through 2013.
The work became necessary because of a lengthy dispute the city had with Frisco over a 1998 wastewater treatment agreement.
Frisco had agreed to allow sewage from The Colony to be treated at a Frisco plant. The Colony invested about $1 million in the project. But leaders from both cities were unable to agree about where to put pipelines that would carry the wastewater to Frisco's plant on Fourth Army Memorial Road.
According to a contract signed by both cities and the North Texas Municipal Water District, the Frisco plant was supposed to treat 500,000 gallons a day of The Colony's wastewater.
The agreement, however, never stipulated how to deliver it to the plant.
In 2003, state environmental regulators fined The Colony $16,000 for having too much ammonium nitrogen in treated water it released into Lewisville Lake. The city had two years to fix the problem or face more penalties.
With no end to the stalemate in sight, The Colony decided in 2004 to treat its own wastewater.
The Colony is involved in litigation with Frisco and the water district over the matter.
"The intention was to regionalize wastewater. The idea was that cities can pool money to build a larger plant to handle more flow," Mr. Ward said. "The plan was to eventually send all of our flow there. We put up our money and haven't been able to use it."
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TexasStooge
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Water main break closes North Lake College
IRVING, Texas (The Dallas Morning News) - A water main break has forced officials at North Lake College to cancel all classes and programs on Friday.
North Lake College Police Chief J.C. Drake said the break occurred overnight in a parking lot area on the west side of the campus along Walnut Hill Lane.
There is not currently any construction in that area, so crews are at the site attempting to determine what caused the problem, he said.
Because the entire campus is without water there cannot be adequate fire protection, Chief Drake said, so the decision was made to close the school until the problem is fixed.
Students and faculty can get updates at the school's Web site, http://www.northlakecollege.edu, or by calling 972-273-3000.
IRVING, Texas (The Dallas Morning News) - A water main break has forced officials at North Lake College to cancel all classes and programs on Friday.
North Lake College Police Chief J.C. Drake said the break occurred overnight in a parking lot area on the west side of the campus along Walnut Hill Lane.
There is not currently any construction in that area, so crews are at the site attempting to determine what caused the problem, he said.
Because the entire campus is without water there cannot be adequate fire protection, Chief Drake said, so the decision was made to close the school until the problem is fixed.
Students and faculty can get updates at the school's Web site, http://www.northlakecollege.edu, or by calling 972-273-3000.
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Helping kids fight obstacles to success
Irving: Program kicks open door to karate, focuses on discipline
By KATHERINE LEAL UNMUTH / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas – Twelve-year-old Amy Fuentes quickly names her favorite part of karate class: throwing punches.
On a recent afternoon in the de Zavala Middle School aerobics room, she took her stance wearing a white uniform and yellow belt as her teacher, John-Paul Mitchell, yelled commands.
"Fold! Step! Block! Punch!"
Amy completed each move and grinned.
"We get to learn how to defend ourselves," she said after class. "In case anything bad happens, we know what to do."
This year, more than 100 students enrolled in the new Kickstart karate classes at the school. The program was started by Walker, Texas Ranger star Chuck Norris and first offered in Houston schools in January 1992. Originally named Kick Drugs Out of America, the group aims to help at-risk and low-income children learn discipline and to give them access to classes they may not otherwise be able to afford. Since it began, 101 students have earned black belts.
Kickstart has operated in the Dallas area for 10 years. It is offered in four Dallas schools and five Carrollton-Farmers Branch schools. The de Zavala program is in its first year; Irving's Austin Middle School began offering it four years ago.
Austin principal Cindy Bean said that she was originally skeptical of the program but that she has grown to see its value as the school's most popular elective. Mr. Norris came to the school's first belt ceremony a few years ago, she said.
"In most upper-income districts or neighborhoods, parents will take their children to karate lessons after school or on weekends," she said. "But so many of our parents don't have the time or the money to send their children to classes."
Instructors are hired to teach in the schools, which pay no more than $25,000 to cover the $65,000 program. Kickstart fundraising covers the rest. For students, the class is free. They pay only for their uniforms.
Though it is only offered in middle schools, the instructors offer after-school sessions for those who have left the program and are in high school. The instructors also run summer sessions.
They emphasize building character. Students learn to repeat the "Chuck Norris affirmation" every day in class, proclaiming they are winners and they can be whatever they want to be.
In Mr. Mitchell's class, tall, lanky Josue Moreno, 14, focused intently on his moves. Mr. Mitchell moved around the room, helping Josue and other students with posture and style.
"It teaches you about respect and attitude," Josue said. "I'm taking it serious. I hear a lot of people want to be in it, but they can't. It's like a gift."
A key part of the class is teaching discipline so that kids stay out of trouble. As students improve their skills, they earn new belts. But they may also earn stripes for their belts based on behavior. For example, they earn a blue stripe if their schoolteachers note that they are being respectful and turning in their homework on time.
Former Austin reading teacher Barbara Munday said she recalled filling out the forms for her students. Her daughter Michelle, 11, is now in the de Zavala program.
"They were held accountable in all areas of their life," she said. "If they got in trouble in one of their classes, the karate instructor would talk with them and work with them on how to show respect everywhere, not just in class."
Austin instructor Wallace Smedley said seeing the students so often is much different from teaching private lessons less frequently. He now has six high school students who come after school for additional lessons and are working toward black belts.
"The biggest difference is getting to see them every day and actually being a part of their life," he said. "I get to see the day-by-day growth."
Irving: Program kicks open door to karate, focuses on discipline
By KATHERINE LEAL UNMUTH / The Dallas Morning News
IRVING, Texas – Twelve-year-old Amy Fuentes quickly names her favorite part of karate class: throwing punches.
On a recent afternoon in the de Zavala Middle School aerobics room, she took her stance wearing a white uniform and yellow belt as her teacher, John-Paul Mitchell, yelled commands.
"Fold! Step! Block! Punch!"
Amy completed each move and grinned.
"We get to learn how to defend ourselves," she said after class. "In case anything bad happens, we know what to do."
This year, more than 100 students enrolled in the new Kickstart karate classes at the school. The program was started by Walker, Texas Ranger star Chuck Norris and first offered in Houston schools in January 1992. Originally named Kick Drugs Out of America, the group aims to help at-risk and low-income children learn discipline and to give them access to classes they may not otherwise be able to afford. Since it began, 101 students have earned black belts.
Kickstart has operated in the Dallas area for 10 years. It is offered in four Dallas schools and five Carrollton-Farmers Branch schools. The de Zavala program is in its first year; Irving's Austin Middle School began offering it four years ago.
Austin principal Cindy Bean said that she was originally skeptical of the program but that she has grown to see its value as the school's most popular elective. Mr. Norris came to the school's first belt ceremony a few years ago, she said.
"In most upper-income districts or neighborhoods, parents will take their children to karate lessons after school or on weekends," she said. "But so many of our parents don't have the time or the money to send their children to classes."
Instructors are hired to teach in the schools, which pay no more than $25,000 to cover the $65,000 program. Kickstart fundraising covers the rest. For students, the class is free. They pay only for their uniforms.
Though it is only offered in middle schools, the instructors offer after-school sessions for those who have left the program and are in high school. The instructors also run summer sessions.
They emphasize building character. Students learn to repeat the "Chuck Norris affirmation" every day in class, proclaiming they are winners and they can be whatever they want to be.
In Mr. Mitchell's class, tall, lanky Josue Moreno, 14, focused intently on his moves. Mr. Mitchell moved around the room, helping Josue and other students with posture and style.
"It teaches you about respect and attitude," Josue said. "I'm taking it serious. I hear a lot of people want to be in it, but they can't. It's like a gift."
A key part of the class is teaching discipline so that kids stay out of trouble. As students improve their skills, they earn new belts. But they may also earn stripes for their belts based on behavior. For example, they earn a blue stripe if their schoolteachers note that they are being respectful and turning in their homework on time.
Former Austin reading teacher Barbara Munday said she recalled filling out the forms for her students. Her daughter Michelle, 11, is now in the de Zavala program.
"They were held accountable in all areas of their life," she said. "If they got in trouble in one of their classes, the karate instructor would talk with them and work with them on how to show respect everywhere, not just in class."
Austin instructor Wallace Smedley said seeing the students so often is much different from teaching private lessons less frequently. He now has six high school students who come after school for additional lessons and are working toward black belts.
"The biggest difference is getting to see them every day and actually being a part of their life," he said. "I get to see the day-by-day growth."
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School's first act is divine
Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD: Ranchview cast sets stage for inaugural musical, 'Godspell'
By DEBORAH FLECK / The Dallas Morning News
CARROLLTON, Texas - Musical theater is finally coming to Ranchview High School.
Students who can sing, dance and act will showcase their talents in the school's first musical. A cast of about 20, ranging from freshmen to seniors, will perform the rock musical Godspell next week.
"We had a really good turnout for auditions," said Ryan Fitzgerald, a junior who works behind the scenes as technical director.
Like Ryan, many Ranchview students started studying theater at Barbara Bush Middle School with Dara Stewart, one of the play's three directors. She moved to Ranchview when the school opened in 2002.
A graduate of North Texas State University, Mrs. Stewart started her teaching career at Vivian Field Middle School in Carrollton and then moved to Blalack Middle School, also in Carrollton. She took a break from education and worked in the business world for a few years but soon realized she missed teaching.
"I walked into Barbara Bush looking for a job and was told there was an opening for an assistant theater teacher," she said. "It's the best job in the world. I have fun all day long."
Choir teacher John Sikon and dance instructor Rachelle White are pitching in to direct the ensemble.
Mr. Sikon, who recently graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in music education, came to Ranchview a year ago.
"I'm blown away by the talent, especially since there are only four choir members in the cast," he said. Most cast members are actors and dancers who are learning to sing.
Mr. Sikon wasn't daunted by the challenge.
"You can teach almost anyone to sing," he said.
Senior Madison Weidele had qualms about the auditions.
"I love everything about acting," she said. "But I was very apprehensive about singing." Yet she snagged a major role and sings a solo number.
"It's so much fun getting to know everyone," Madison said.
Junior Desmond Hunt, who plays Jesus, had to drop out of choir this year because he is also in football and power lifting. He auditioned because he enjoys singing.
"It's challenging because I'm not used to singing and acting," he said about his role.
Senior Katie Johnson wasn't in theater or choir but decided to audition because she likes musicals.
"It's really fun, and I'm learning a lot," she said.
During the show, the entire cast is on stage in every scene. That means no breaks.
"There's never a dull moment," junior Julian Sanders said. He, like other actors, credits the teachers with pulling him through.
"We are learning as we go," Mrs. Stewart said. "It's exciting and stressful because we are doing everything for the first time."
But Mrs. Stewart and the rest of the cast and crew are eager for the curtain to rise on the first of what they hope will be many musicals at Ranchview.
Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD: Ranchview cast sets stage for inaugural musical, 'Godspell'
By DEBORAH FLECK / The Dallas Morning News
CARROLLTON, Texas - Musical theater is finally coming to Ranchview High School.
Students who can sing, dance and act will showcase their talents in the school's first musical. A cast of about 20, ranging from freshmen to seniors, will perform the rock musical Godspell next week.
"We had a really good turnout for auditions," said Ryan Fitzgerald, a junior who works behind the scenes as technical director.
Like Ryan, many Ranchview students started studying theater at Barbara Bush Middle School with Dara Stewart, one of the play's three directors. She moved to Ranchview when the school opened in 2002.
A graduate of North Texas State University, Mrs. Stewart started her teaching career at Vivian Field Middle School in Carrollton and then moved to Blalack Middle School, also in Carrollton. She took a break from education and worked in the business world for a few years but soon realized she missed teaching.
"I walked into Barbara Bush looking for a job and was told there was an opening for an assistant theater teacher," she said. "It's the best job in the world. I have fun all day long."
Choir teacher John Sikon and dance instructor Rachelle White are pitching in to direct the ensemble.
Mr. Sikon, who recently graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in music education, came to Ranchview a year ago.
"I'm blown away by the talent, especially since there are only four choir members in the cast," he said. Most cast members are actors and dancers who are learning to sing.
Mr. Sikon wasn't daunted by the challenge.
"You can teach almost anyone to sing," he said.
Senior Madison Weidele had qualms about the auditions.
"I love everything about acting," she said. "But I was very apprehensive about singing." Yet she snagged a major role and sings a solo number.
"It's so much fun getting to know everyone," Madison said.
Junior Desmond Hunt, who plays Jesus, had to drop out of choir this year because he is also in football and power lifting. He auditioned because he enjoys singing.
"It's challenging because I'm not used to singing and acting," he said about his role.
Senior Katie Johnson wasn't in theater or choir but decided to audition because she likes musicals.
"It's really fun, and I'm learning a lot," she said.
During the show, the entire cast is on stage in every scene. That means no breaks.
"There's never a dull moment," junior Julian Sanders said. He, like other actors, credits the teachers with pulling him through.
"We are learning as we go," Mrs. Stewart said. "It's exciting and stressful because we are doing everything for the first time."
But Mrs. Stewart and the rest of the cast and crew are eager for the curtain to rise on the first of what they hope will be many musicals at Ranchview.
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TexasStooge
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TexasStooge
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CareFlite helicopter loses rotors in Fort Worth accident
FORT WORTH, Texas (WFAA ABC 8) - A CareFlite helicopter was involved in a rotor accident at Meacham Field in Fort Worth Thursday evening, though no one was injured.
CareFlite officials said just after 5 p.m., one of the medical rescue firm’s Agusta 109 helicopters was landing at the airport when its rotor and transmission assembly separated from the helicopter.
The top and rear portions of the helicopter suffered major damage. Pieces of the blades and other debris could be seen scattered nearby.
The pilot, a seven-year CareFlite employee with prior military and rotorcraft experience, was the only person on board and got out safely.
The FAA and NTSB have been notified and an investigation is under way, officials said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WFAA ABC 8
FORT WORTH, Texas (WFAA ABC 8) - A CareFlite helicopter was involved in a rotor accident at Meacham Field in Fort Worth Thursday evening, though no one was injured.
CareFlite officials said just after 5 p.m., one of the medical rescue firm’s Agusta 109 helicopters was landing at the airport when its rotor and transmission assembly separated from the helicopter.
The top and rear portions of the helicopter suffered major damage. Pieces of the blades and other debris could be seen scattered nearby.
The pilot, a seven-year CareFlite employee with prior military and rotorcraft experience, was the only person on board and got out safely.
The FAA and NTSB have been notified and an investigation is under way, officials said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WFAA ABC 8
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TexasStooge
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BREAKING NEWS: Fort Worth police arrest 7 in meth crackdown
By JIM DOUGLAS / WFAA ABC 8
NEWS 8 EXCLUSIVE
FORT WORTH, Texas — Police in Fort Worth call it the biggest epidemic of illegal drugs since crack cocaine.
Detectives hope they've put a dent in methamphetamine trafficking with the overnight arrests of seven suspects.
It wasn't a record bust, but it was a big one.
Fort Worth police said they had been investigating for about a week after getting a tip. Late Thursday afternoon, city and federal agents began raiding a number of locations in Fort Worth and White Settlement.
Police said it started with one search warrant, and that generated more warrants.
At a house on Roberts Cut Off Road in far northwest Fort Worth, officers seized nearly seven pounds of "ice" methamphetamine along with $43,000 in cash.
Narcotics officers said the meth would have made dealers nearly $500,000 on the streets.
"From what we understand, it came up from somewhere around the border, which is a natural flow of progression of where the ice is coming from nowadays," said Fort Worth police spokesman Lt. Ric Clark.
Police arrested seven people and have issued a warrant for one more. They will face federal drug trafficking charges.
A source close to the investigation told News 8 one of the suspects already has drug record.
All seven were scheduled to be arraigned at the federal courthouse in Fort Worth on Friday afternoon.
Agents are seeking federal charges, because they carry longer sentences than state charges.
WFAA ABC 8
Narcotics officers seized cash and drugs.
By JIM DOUGLAS / WFAA ABC 8
NEWS 8 EXCLUSIVE
FORT WORTH, Texas — Police in Fort Worth call it the biggest epidemic of illegal drugs since crack cocaine.
Detectives hope they've put a dent in methamphetamine trafficking with the overnight arrests of seven suspects.
It wasn't a record bust, but it was a big one.
Fort Worth police said they had been investigating for about a week after getting a tip. Late Thursday afternoon, city and federal agents began raiding a number of locations in Fort Worth and White Settlement.
Police said it started with one search warrant, and that generated more warrants.
At a house on Roberts Cut Off Road in far northwest Fort Worth, officers seized nearly seven pounds of "ice" methamphetamine along with $43,000 in cash.
Narcotics officers said the meth would have made dealers nearly $500,000 on the streets.
"From what we understand, it came up from somewhere around the border, which is a natural flow of progression of where the ice is coming from nowadays," said Fort Worth police spokesman Lt. Ric Clark.
Police arrested seven people and have issued a warrant for one more. They will face federal drug trafficking charges.
A source close to the investigation told News 8 one of the suspects already has drug record.
All seven were scheduled to be arraigned at the federal courthouse in Fort Worth on Friday afternoon.
Agents are seeking federal charges, because they carry longer sentences than state charges.
WFAA ABC 8
Narcotics officers seized cash and drugs.
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TexasStooge
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Farmersville stroke victim attacked
By STEVE STOLER / WFAA ABC 8
FARMERSVILLE, Texas - A partially paralyzed man apparently minding his own business was attacked outside his apartment in Farmersville, allegedly by a neighbor.
Neighbors are very upset about the incident.
Eddie Ray Culverhouse likes to come out of his home in his wheelchair to get some fresh air.
"I'm hurt, not by the body, but by the heart," said Culverhouse.
"I went to shake his hand and I caught me a fist."
Culverhouse, 49, suffered a stroke eight years ago.
He is paralyzed on his left side and confined to a wheelchair.
Farmersville police arrested 47-year-old David Hobbs and charged him with injury to a disabled person.
Hobbs is Culverhouse's neighbor.
"He's handicapped, one whole side is paralyzed, he had no way to defend himself," said Culverhouse's friend Joan Stewart.
Hobbs told police he hit the man because he was "messing with his car" and put something in his laundry in the laundry room.
If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison.
By STEVE STOLER / WFAA ABC 8
FARMERSVILLE, Texas - A partially paralyzed man apparently minding his own business was attacked outside his apartment in Farmersville, allegedly by a neighbor.
Neighbors are very upset about the incident.
Eddie Ray Culverhouse likes to come out of his home in his wheelchair to get some fresh air.
"I'm hurt, not by the body, but by the heart," said Culverhouse.
"I went to shake his hand and I caught me a fist."
Culverhouse, 49, suffered a stroke eight years ago.
He is paralyzed on his left side and confined to a wheelchair.
Farmersville police arrested 47-year-old David Hobbs and charged him with injury to a disabled person.
Hobbs is Culverhouse's neighbor.
"He's handicapped, one whole side is paralyzed, he had no way to defend himself," said Culverhouse's friend Joan Stewart.
Hobbs told police he hit the man because he was "messing with his car" and put something in his laundry in the laundry room.
If convicted, he could face up to ten years in prison.
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TexasStooge
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Smugglers blamed for border violence
By Angela Kocherga / WFAA ABC 8
Patrol agents tell us smugglers are behind recent violence on the border and the backlash is coming from both human and drug traffickers in response to tighter border security.
Border patrol agents cautiously search tunnels used by smugglers - smugglers who've become increasingly violent.
"They've become combative with the agents," said Ramiro Cordero, a U.S. border patrol agent.
In the face of tighter border security, smugglers are lashing out.
The most common weapon: a rock.
One agent here in El Paso on January 13th was hit with a rock which required 25 stitches on his head.
The attacks have steadily escalated to include gunfire.
More than 200 patrol agents reported violent incidents along the border this past year - 43 in the El Paso area alone.
Several of the impacts that are on this bullet proof glass are actual projectile shots from firearms.
In mid-December the Department of Homeland Security issued a warning for agents working here along the border.
The concern that smugglers may have hired contract killers, members of the violent MS 13 gang, to target border patrol agents.
One more sign that those charged with securing the border now face their own security threat.
Tensions are running high. Just a few weeks ago a border patrol agent in the San Diego area shot and killed an 18-year-old-man, after he threw a rock.
By Angela Kocherga / WFAA ABC 8
Patrol agents tell us smugglers are behind recent violence on the border and the backlash is coming from both human and drug traffickers in response to tighter border security.
Border patrol agents cautiously search tunnels used by smugglers - smugglers who've become increasingly violent.
"They've become combative with the agents," said Ramiro Cordero, a U.S. border patrol agent.
In the face of tighter border security, smugglers are lashing out.
The most common weapon: a rock.
One agent here in El Paso on January 13th was hit with a rock which required 25 stitches on his head.
The attacks have steadily escalated to include gunfire.
More than 200 patrol agents reported violent incidents along the border this past year - 43 in the El Paso area alone.
Several of the impacts that are on this bullet proof glass are actual projectile shots from firearms.
In mid-December the Department of Homeland Security issued a warning for agents working here along the border.
The concern that smugglers may have hired contract killers, members of the violent MS 13 gang, to target border patrol agents.
One more sign that those charged with securing the border now face their own security threat.
Tensions are running high. Just a few weeks ago a border patrol agent in the San Diego area shot and killed an 18-year-old-man, after he threw a rock.
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TexasStooge
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Texans travel to India for low cost operations
By BYRON HARRIS / WFAA ABC 8
Nearly one out of four Texans does not have health insurance.
Not being able to buy prescription drugs is one thing.
But for those who need serious surgery, the problem is worse.
For some people who have to go under the knife but can't afford American medical bills, the solution is India.
Last November, Nancy Koehler shared the plight of many Americans.
Every step she took needles of pain shot from her disintegrating hip.
"It hurts constantly. It's very difficult to sleep at night," she said.
She needed hip replacement surgery. But she couldn't afford health insurance, and didn't have the tens of thousands of dollars it would cost to pay for it out of her own pocket.
She decided to go to Bombay, where many Americans are going for expensive high-quality surgery.
After a year of research on the internet, she found the clinic of Dr. Ahmeet Pispati, a British-trained surgeon who for the last several years has resurfaced hip joints with a procedure only recently approved in the United States.
Hips consist of a ball at the top of your thigh bone, and a socket, that the bone fits into.
Historically, in the United States surgeons have cut off the ball of the hip and replaced it with a solid metal ball and a new socket. In hip resurfacing, instead of cutting off the bone, the surface of the hip ball and the socket are replaced.
"I feel so good. I'm not going to have any problems," says Koehler.
Eight weeks ago Ms. Koehler made the trip to Bombay to have her hip resurfaced.
Looking back, she's says her Indian experience is far better than the United States. She knows what she is talking about. Eight years ago, when she still had health insurance, her other hip was replaced in the United States, by an American surgeon.
"The Indian hip is far better," she says.
Her American hip dislocated twice requiring her to have a second painful surgery. And then there's cost.
In today's dollars her American hip could cost as much as $40,000.
The Indian hip, with hospital stay, rehab and plane ticket, cost less than $9,000.
Is India for everybody?
Not necessarily, says Dr. Nariner Monga. Indian by birth, he's practiced in the U.S. for 31 years.
"I'll have to check out very thoroughly, which institute the surgery's going on and after making sure that it is in good hands then I won't feel uncomfortable," he says.
Today, Nancy Koehler uses a cane only because it's her doctor's orders. She talks with him via e-mail every day. And compared to the twin devil of health insurance and painful surgery, her Indian hip has been a walk in the park.
By BYRON HARRIS / WFAA ABC 8
Nearly one out of four Texans does not have health insurance.
Not being able to buy prescription drugs is one thing.
But for those who need serious surgery, the problem is worse.
For some people who have to go under the knife but can't afford American medical bills, the solution is India.
Last November, Nancy Koehler shared the plight of many Americans.
Every step she took needles of pain shot from her disintegrating hip.
"It hurts constantly. It's very difficult to sleep at night," she said.
She needed hip replacement surgery. But she couldn't afford health insurance, and didn't have the tens of thousands of dollars it would cost to pay for it out of her own pocket.
She decided to go to Bombay, where many Americans are going for expensive high-quality surgery.
After a year of research on the internet, she found the clinic of Dr. Ahmeet Pispati, a British-trained surgeon who for the last several years has resurfaced hip joints with a procedure only recently approved in the United States.
Hips consist of a ball at the top of your thigh bone, and a socket, that the bone fits into.
Historically, in the United States surgeons have cut off the ball of the hip and replaced it with a solid metal ball and a new socket. In hip resurfacing, instead of cutting off the bone, the surface of the hip ball and the socket are replaced.
"I feel so good. I'm not going to have any problems," says Koehler.
Eight weeks ago Ms. Koehler made the trip to Bombay to have her hip resurfaced.
Looking back, she's says her Indian experience is far better than the United States. She knows what she is talking about. Eight years ago, when she still had health insurance, her other hip was replaced in the United States, by an American surgeon.
"The Indian hip is far better," she says.
Her American hip dislocated twice requiring her to have a second painful surgery. And then there's cost.
In today's dollars her American hip could cost as much as $40,000.
The Indian hip, with hospital stay, rehab and plane ticket, cost less than $9,000.
Is India for everybody?
Not necessarily, says Dr. Nariner Monga. Indian by birth, he's practiced in the U.S. for 31 years.
"I'll have to check out very thoroughly, which institute the surgery's going on and after making sure that it is in good hands then I won't feel uncomfortable," he says.
Today, Nancy Koehler uses a cane only because it's her doctor's orders. She talks with him via e-mail every day. And compared to the twin devil of health insurance and painful surgery, her Indian hip has been a walk in the park.
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TexasStooge
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West Dallas shooting leaves one dead
DALLAS, Texas (WFAA ABC 8) - A 22-year-old man is dead, and his mother and neighbor injured following a shooting in West Dallas, according to police.
The Latin man's mother was transported to Parkland Hospital with a gunshot wound to her thumb while a neighbor aged 18 was also hospitalized with wound to the hand.
Police say they do not know what provoked the attack at 1,000 block of Gallagher near North Winnetka.
Two suspects thought to be driving a brown four-door Sedan are still at large.
The incident occurred at around 3:30 p.m. on Friday.
DALLAS, Texas (WFAA ABC 8) - A 22-year-old man is dead, and his mother and neighbor injured following a shooting in West Dallas, according to police.
The Latin man's mother was transported to Parkland Hospital with a gunshot wound to her thumb while a neighbor aged 18 was also hospitalized with wound to the hand.
Police say they do not know what provoked the attack at 1,000 block of Gallagher near North Winnetka.
Two suspects thought to be driving a brown four-door Sedan are still at large.
The incident occurred at around 3:30 p.m. on Friday.
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TexasStooge
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Suspicious bag prompts D/FW evacuation
Dallasnews.com Staff Writers
A piece of luggage set off an alarm at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport on Friday, causing authorities to briefly close a portion of Terminal C.
Airport spokesman Ken Capps said just before 2 p.m., the bag tripped a sensor during the screening process, raising suspicions of security personnel.
A 300-foot area near Gate C14 was cleared for about 20 minutes while police and bomb squad personnel checked the bag.
Once it was determined the bag was not a threat, it was removed and the area was reopened. Capps said there were no major disruptions to airport operations as a result of the incident.
Dallas Morning News staff writer Jon Nielsen contributed to this report.
Dallasnews.com Staff Writers
A piece of luggage set off an alarm at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport on Friday, causing authorities to briefly close a portion of Terminal C.
Airport spokesman Ken Capps said just before 2 p.m., the bag tripped a sensor during the screening process, raising suspicions of security personnel.
A 300-foot area near Gate C14 was cleared for about 20 minutes while police and bomb squad personnel checked the bag.
Once it was determined the bag was not a threat, it was removed and the area was reopened. Capps said there were no major disruptions to airport operations as a result of the incident.
Dallas Morning News staff writer Jon Nielsen contributed to this report.
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TexasStooge
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Former officer found not guilty in groping incident
By ROBERT THARP / The Dallas Morning News
DALLAS, Texas - A former Dallas police officer who was fired after being accused of groping a female motorist during a traffic stop was found not guilty of the charge on Thursday.
The motorist, an employee at a Dallas topless club, charged that 5-year department veteran Jermaine Thompson threatened to take her to jail unless she showed him her breasts during a Sept. 2004 traffic stop in far northeast Dallas.
The woman told police that Mr. Thompson touched her breasts after she lifted her shirt. Investigators verified that the officer's car was where the woman said it was by reviewing the car's electronic tracking system data.
The woman also said Mr. Thompson later showed up at the club where she worked, tried to get in free and groped her again.
Mr. Thompson was charged with improper sexual activity with a person in custody and faced up to two years in a state jail. He waived his right to a jury trial and was found not guilty by District Judge Keith Dean.
Mr. Thompson's attorney, Tom Pappas, argued that the woman's trial testimony differed from statements she originally made to investigators and that details of the police investigation did not corroborate her account.
Mr. Thompson was fired in December after his Sept. 2005 indictment. Mr. Pappas said the officer will not work to get his job back.
By ROBERT THARP / The Dallas Morning News
DALLAS, Texas - A former Dallas police officer who was fired after being accused of groping a female motorist during a traffic stop was found not guilty of the charge on Thursday.
The motorist, an employee at a Dallas topless club, charged that 5-year department veteran Jermaine Thompson threatened to take her to jail unless she showed him her breasts during a Sept. 2004 traffic stop in far northeast Dallas.
The woman told police that Mr. Thompson touched her breasts after she lifted her shirt. Investigators verified that the officer's car was where the woman said it was by reviewing the car's electronic tracking system data.
The woman also said Mr. Thompson later showed up at the club where she worked, tried to get in free and groped her again.
Mr. Thompson was charged with improper sexual activity with a person in custody and faced up to two years in a state jail. He waived his right to a jury trial and was found not guilty by District Judge Keith Dean.
Mr. Thompson's attorney, Tom Pappas, argued that the woman's trial testimony differed from statements she originally made to investigators and that details of the police investigation did not corroborate her account.
Mr. Thompson was fired in December after his Sept. 2005 indictment. Mr. Pappas said the officer will not work to get his job back.
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TexasStooge
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Educators: 'Choking game' can be deadly
By MARY ANN RAZZUK / WFAA ABC 8
ALLEN, Texas — Parents of Allen middle school students are being warned about a dangerous "choking game" that could turn deadly for participants.
Sandra McCoy-Jackson, principal of Ford Middle School, sent a letter home to parents explaining what happened to one Allen Independent School District student who took part in the self-asphyxiation game during off-campus activities.
"A student is in the hospital recovering from a serious injury that occurred because of a dangerous game some students have been playing when they choke themselves," the letter said.
Officials could not confirm whether the student was from Ford or another Allen ISD school.
The letter asked parents to talk with their children to warn them of the potential danger and to determine if they've ever seen this "game" or tried to cut off their own oxygen.
Parents were urged to contact school counselors or district officials if they had any qestions.
According to some reports, this self-asphyxiation "game" is intended to produce a "high," but school officials emphasized this is a very dangerous activity, which is known by other names, including the "pass-out game," the "fainting game," the "tingling game" or the "something dreaming game."
Last year, at least 54 young people died while playing the game, according to records complied by the Stop the Choking Game Web site, including a 12-year-old girl from Arlington and a 14-year-old boy from Garland.
Doctors say parents can look for these clues if they suspect their child has been involved:
• Markings around the neck
• Ties or ropes tied in unusual ways
• Complaints of headaches, bloodshot eyes
Doctors say it's most important for parents to discuss such risky behaviors with their children. Experts say some young people are fascinated by strange and dangerous play, there can be an added attraction if it is not talked about.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALSO ONLINE:
- Chocking Game from Wikipedia
- The Deadly Choking Game from Parent of a Victim
- Ford Middle School in Allen ISD
By MARY ANN RAZZUK / WFAA ABC 8
ALLEN, Texas — Parents of Allen middle school students are being warned about a dangerous "choking game" that could turn deadly for participants.
Sandra McCoy-Jackson, principal of Ford Middle School, sent a letter home to parents explaining what happened to one Allen Independent School District student who took part in the self-asphyxiation game during off-campus activities.
"A student is in the hospital recovering from a serious injury that occurred because of a dangerous game some students have been playing when they choke themselves," the letter said.
Officials could not confirm whether the student was from Ford or another Allen ISD school.
The letter asked parents to talk with their children to warn them of the potential danger and to determine if they've ever seen this "game" or tried to cut off their own oxygen.
Parents were urged to contact school counselors or district officials if they had any qestions.
According to some reports, this self-asphyxiation "game" is intended to produce a "high," but school officials emphasized this is a very dangerous activity, which is known by other names, including the "pass-out game," the "fainting game," the "tingling game" or the "something dreaming game."
Last year, at least 54 young people died while playing the game, according to records complied by the Stop the Choking Game Web site, including a 12-year-old girl from Arlington and a 14-year-old boy from Garland.
Doctors say parents can look for these clues if they suspect their child has been involved:
• Markings around the neck
• Ties or ropes tied in unusual ways
• Complaints of headaches, bloodshot eyes
Doctors say it's most important for parents to discuss such risky behaviors with their children. Experts say some young people are fascinated by strange and dangerous play, there can be an added attraction if it is not talked about.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALSO ONLINE:
- Chocking Game from Wikipedia
- The Deadly Choking Game from Parent of a Victim
- Ford Middle School in Allen ISD
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