Corinne T. Smith Animal Center - Volunteer Training Session

Brown County Folks - Corrine T. Smith Animal Center is having a new volunteer training session on Aug. 4th 1pm - 3pm if you are interested in volunteering at the shelter please contact me at ctsacvolunteer@gmail.com  to organize. We still need lots of dog walkers/bathers and would like someone to help out in reception/cat rooms on Wed afternoons, and Sunday afternoons. IF you aren't available on a regular basis we also have adoption events and fundraisers through out the year you could help with as well! Just let me know! 

Darcy - Male Pit Bull/Terrier Mix 10 months

Hi! Pay attention people cause the spotlight should be on me! I have lots of energy and would love to find a home who likes to play & exercise alot!  Friday my volunteer took me out with Reba and we played and played. I like to rough house a little more than Reba did but I knew my limits and when my volunter told me to settle down I did! 

She gave me a bone so Reba could have a rest and I walked a few feet away from my volunteer and layed down and chewed on my bone! I think my volunteer was happy I didn't run away when she wasn't holding my leash cause she gave me lots of praise for staying with her! She even let me finish our walk around the yard without holding my leash cause I stayed right beside her and Reba the whole time! 

I would be a great addition to any FUREVER home and I promise to always play with my new family and exercise even if they have other animals! That would just add to all the fun I intend to bring to my new FUREVER home! 

Come on down and check me out and I promise you will fall in love with me and want to take me home!

Roles

What role do you play at home, at work or in the world? What roles do you assign others? What would happen if you were to become aware of these roles and make them less important?

As a single woman business owner I am the same person. I am the strong independent, go to girl who gets things accomplished and enjoys what life has to offer to me. But, the softer side of me often feels alone and isolated because of these same characteristics I have had to develop in order to survive terrible experiences that happened early in life. Sometimes being seen as strong, independent and self sufficient can be seen as you don't need anyone and while I do what I do and learn what I need to learn in order to manage single life it doesn't always mean I don't want or need people.  I don't often assign roles to others because in my personal life I have not really found many I can rely on. I tend to let the people who are active in my life be how they wish to be and my reactions to their behaviors are based upon their actions. This helps keep disappointment to a minimum and appreciation applied to those who are deserving. I am very aware of the roles I assign to myself and others and I am not sure of a better way to do it and still be happy in my life but there is always room for improvement! 

Corinne T. Smith Animal Center - Volunteer Training Session

Brown County Folks - Corrine T. Smith Animal Center is having a new volunteer training session on Aug. 4th 1pm - 3pm if you are interested in volunteering at the shelter please contact me at ctsacvolunteer@gmail.com  to organize. We still need lots of dog walkers/bathers and would like someone to help out in reception/cat rooms on Wed afternoons, and Sunday afternoons. IF you aren't available on a regular basis we also have adoption events and fundraisers through out the year you could help with as well! Just let me know! 

Bookkeeper/Office Manager/VA w/MBA in Business Administration

 My name is Toni Burleson, and I have been working in the virtual industry for over 3 years to contribute to the success of corporations, small businesses and executives everywhere.  English is my native language and I currently reside in Texas.

I am by no means a newbie to the virtual industry. I have been working in the virtual capacity for the past 3 years and prior to this (further work history can be found at http://tburleson76.elance.com) I have been supporting, collaborating and creating in this capacity for the past 17 years (since I was in high school) I was as an administrative assistant, bookkeeper, office administrator, and general manager. I have provided administrative support for both large and small businesses.  I learn quickly and enjoy a challenge. I am available through various contact methods during the work day including land line phone, texting, email, Skype and IM. I must tell you the fastest and easiest way to contact me is via email or telephone.

I have experience in management, bookkeeping, internet service provider, agriculture, home repair, business ownership, writing, and administrative support and transcription. My education includes a BS in Business and a Masters in Business Administration, and continued educational courses via small business association.

For interview purposes I can be available any time we may agree to set up an interview. 

What I will bring to this job to ensure our success and growth?

If you choose to hire me you will be hiring a dedicated professional with positive energy and a pioneering spirit. I will take the time to understand your needs and deliver quality work that meets or exceeds your expectations, with minimal supervision. Please contact me if you have questions or would like to get to know me further. I welcome the opportunity to discuss your project and to become a partner in your success.

https://www.odesk.com/users/~~1a9152f2f1d957fe

Sincerely,

Toni Burleson

What was the best day of your life?

I was flipping through a magazine the other day and I read the question, "what was the best day of your life?" and I realized I did not have an answer for this question. This made me a little sad.

I could say it was the day I graduated high school because after being emancipated at 15 it was a struggle to work, pay the bills, take care of myself while keeping a roof over my head but I would be lying because it was more of a relief to be done with school than the best day of my life.

I could say it was the day I got married but now that I am divorced it wouldn't make sense (and for me personally would be a little sad; looking back) for that to have been the best day of my life.

 I could say it was day I graduated with my undergraduate degree or my graduate degree but while it was a wonderful achievement it was just another day in my life. No one even acknowledged I had completed my degrees much less fly to Arizona to attend my commencement ceremonies.

I could say it was the day I bought any of the properties I owned but those were all just days I was glad the process had come to an end.

While I have many days that were spent doing things I enjoy, most of what could have been called "the best days of my life" have been tainted by a bad experience or a sense of loneliness.

Most of my days are spent alone with my animals whether they be days spent home or traveling without a witness to my life or someone to share my days with there always seems to be a little cloud of darkness hovering just past the horizon. This darkness hovering just past the horizon seems to be an ever present reminder that I am alone unless someone needs something from me and that is usually the only time I hear from people.

Are you powerless in your life?

Recently I was reading an article called Power Surge by Martha Beck and it made me think about all the statements of powerlessness I hear from friends, co-workers, clients, and yes even from me at times. The article described 3 women who used statements such as:
1. "I'm terrified about my daughters drinking, but I've asked her to get help and she just yells at me."
2. "My boss can be really unethical but that's how the company works and if I complain my job is history"
3. "I know I should take better care of myself but someone has to be there for my husband and children."

We've all heard these types of statement in the past. Martha Beck called them declarations of powerlessness. What I found most disturbing in this article was that Martha Beck said, "the most common reason we stumble into the delusion of powerlessness is that we're afraid of what other people would do or say or feel if we were to act as we wanted."  In the 3 scenarios Martha Beck mentioned the woman in the 1st was afraid of her daughters anger, 2 was afraid of losing her job over enforcing her own ethical beliefs, 3. predicted the disintegration of her family if she focused more care of herself.

Often it is as if we are waiting for the permission of others or society to do what feels right for us. As we wait for that permission we walk through life feeling powerless and unhappy.

While I sympathize with these women's situations, (mainly because I have experienced 2 similar situations) it is difficult for me to accept their decisions to remain "powerless" because I have known others and experienced situations myself that are far more daunting but the difference is refusing to be dis empowered. Empowering ourselves to be the people we want to be and have the lives we want to have or stand for our beliefs helps connect us compassionately by deciding to act and refusing to give up when others disapprove, disagree or judge us. We cannot let fear of the unknown cause us to behave as if we are powerless. By refusing to give into our fears we are empowering ourselves to live as we see fit.

Live with no fear and great love!

Securing Your PC And Your Data

Elance_Alex 

Contractors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses of any size have one thing in common: Their computer and the information on it is the centerpiece of daily operations. And with that, maintaining a high level of security for your business or your client is an absolute must in today’s digital world.

Additionally, freelancers and contract professionals that work from home can sometimes overlook computer security since they're in the comfort of their own home. Here are a few quick tips you can employ to add an additional level of security to protect you or your client’s data.

Passwords: Your password is the most important pillar of the security of your data, both personal and private. However, a surprising number of hacks in today’s world occur when a weak password is compromised through various techniques. Here are a few simple rules that you should follow when creating your passwords to thrwart would-be intruders.

1. Avoid using very commonly used password techniques, like names, birth dates, and common words and phrases as these are usually the start points for those looking to break into accounts. Also, remember that just because you flipped your password backwards does NOT make it secure.

2. Don’t use the same password for everything. This should be obvious as if one password becomes compromised, then all of them are. If you can’t create a password for every single account (which I know is difficult), at least try to get down to the category level. For example, have a password for your social media, a password for your finance, a password for your email, and a password for Elance.

3. Don’t be lazy when fulfilling password requirements. For example, if your account requires you to use a special character and a number, don’t just add an exclamation point and the number 1 to the end. In the eyes of an intruder, “monkey1!” isn’t too much more secure than “monkey”.

If you are guilty of any or all of these, it’s probably about time to give your password a makeover.CSOonline.com has an excellent write up on how to create a solid set of passwords to protect all of your personal and business data.

Hardware Security: Having a strong password is just the start – now you’ve got to implement it. First, add a boot password in your computer’s BIOS. This will require whoever that engages your computer to have a password to even fully turn on the device and will curb immediate access to the machine if it is ever stolen. If it sounds a little too technical, fear not – it’s a very easy process that anyone can complete. Also, it’s not a bad idea to add a password to your Windows or Mac OSX logon for an additional layer of security. (And if you want to add a little James Bond factor to your security, you can secure your Windows or Mac computer with a any USB key.)

Secondly, if you’re utilizing a wireless network, be sure to have wireless security set up on your router or access point, and also be sure to use the WPA-type of security at the minimum. Check out PC Magazine’s step-by-step guide for more. While you’re at it, consider utilizing your MAC address filtering for more security on your wireless network.

Use Protection: Make sure you are equipped with an adequate level of anti-virus and anti-spyware software to prevent any access to your machine. Safer Networking’s free Spybot program and Symantec’s AntiVirus are programs I use to keep my machine running virus-and-malware free, however there’s a lot of free and paid software out there that will do the job. (Check out “How To Speed Up Your PC, Fast” for more options.)

Security software will prevent malware, like keyloggers, password stealers, and Trojan horses, will help prevent personal and business data theft. One thing to keep in mind: There’s been a rise in fake security software programs out there offering to clean up your infected PC that are actually making PCs more vulnerable when installed. Be sure to keep download your software from a reputable source when looking for security solutions.

A question to all you tech-savvy elancers out there: What security methods do you employ to keep your personal and business data secure? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below. And if you have any story tips, feel free to email me at alex@elance.com with your idea.

Company bathroom policy causes stink - Stephenville Empire-Tribune | Stephenville, TX | News, Sports, Lifestyles: Local: walmart, bathroom controversy,

Company bathroom policy causes stink - Stephenville Empire-Tribune | Stephenville, TX | News, Sports, Lifestyles: Local: walmart, bathroom controversy,: A company policy has reportedly created a stink at Walmart in Stephenville.

By AMANDA KIMBLEamanda.kimble@empiretribune.com | 0 comments

A company policy has reportedly created a stink at Walmart in Stephenville.

The issue centers on the restroom rights of one employee, a pre-op transexual who despite having male genitalia, identifies herself as a woman.

Walmart's anti-discrimination policy allows the employee to use the women's restroom.

The controversy began with the employee's request to be called "Michelle." The name change was honored by the local store manager years ago, but some of her co-workers refused to call her by that name.

"I got really tired of people calling me 'sir,'" she said. "My name tag has said 'Michelle' for more than two years."

The issue was most frustrating when dealing with another member of the local management team, who despite repeated requests, continued to refer to Michelle by her legal, masculine name.

Frustrated, Michelle contacted the human resources manager in Abilene and was shocked to learn that company policy would do more than just stand behind her preferred name.

"I was told it's Walmart policy to include transgendered people," Michelle said. "I learned I have the privilege of using the ladies room and members of management should address me as Michelle."

"(The next day), on July 2, I walked into the ladies' associate restroom without incident," Michelle said.

Following a couple of days off, she returned to work, where the climate had seemingly changed.

"At the end of my shift, I was asked by two female employees if I was using the ladies' restroom. I told them I was and I had permission," she said.

Michelle said she left the store but was called back less than two hours later and was told that her newly-acquired restroom privileges had created a "horrible fallout."

"People were complaining, employees and customers," Michelle said. "There were phone calls and an employee petition was circulating."

But Michelle says the customer complaints are unfounded.

"I haven't been in the public restrooms in two-and-a-half years. I stopped using them when I was allowed to change my name tag," Michelle said. "Until recently, I had been using the men's associate restroom inside of the break room - even when I was in the store as a customer, shopping in a dress and stockings and carrying a purse."

Michelle said the internal conflict led her to relinquish her rights.

"It's not worth hurting the store by going into the ladies' room," she said.

Despite the scuttlebutt, Walmart is standing behind Michelle.

Since Sam Walton opened the first Walmart in 1962, the culture in the retail chain has rested on three basic beliefs. At the top of the list is "respect for the individual," according to walmartstores.com.

"Our policies are in place to prevent discrimination or harassment," Ashley Hardie, spokesperson for Walmart said Tuesday. "We believe associates should use the restroom facility that corresponds with their own gender identity or expression."

Hardie said it's store policy to recognize and respect all associates and customers and their varying viewpoints.

"We understand people may have strong opinions and balancing their viewpoints isn't easy," she said. "But respect for the individual is our priority."

The Empire-Tribune was first alerted to the controversy by a concerned customer, Rhoda Taylor, a 62-year-old mother and grandmother who travels to the local Walmart to shop. Taylor, who has friends employed at the local retailer, said she is shopping elsewhere for the time being.

"I have trusted Walmart with my daughter and grandkids," Taylor said. "I no longer have that trust, they are allowing someone with the opposite gender to be in the same bathroom as children. How do you explain that to a child? They should post a warning outside of the women's restrooms letting customers know men are allowed to use them or create a unisex restroom. They have betrayed public trust."

 I can't believe we are still having this discussion. What does this 62 year old woman think is going to happen if her grandkid happens to be in the stall next to this transgendered person? It's not like the stalls are open in the women's restrooms so they wouldn't see anything or know anything.  What if  people decided they didn't want to shop in a store that allowed old people in the same restroom as middle aged or young people? Would that be any more right? Discrimination is discrimination.  No one freaks out when they see a father in the men's restroom with his toddler female child or a mother in the women's restroom with her toddler male child.....what's the difference? Put yourself in someone else's shoes before you start judging people. You have no idea what this person had to go through before making a decision about their gender identity. With all this discrimination and hatred I still find it hard to believe that this is a choice....

The Pit Bull Breed

  Now, when you see this image the first thing that pops in your mind is "that dog looks mean and aggressive. In reality that may not be the case at all. Sometimes just the mere appearance of some of the most loving animals can be intimidating to many people.  The truth of the matter though is any dog can be taught to be mean.  

American Pitt Bull Terrier, American Stafforshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, English Bulldogs and of course mixed breeds are all lumped together as the "Pit Bull".  

The "Pit Bull" was never meant for dog fighting. Of course the cruel dog fighters will argue this point with you until they are blue in the face but if they were as half as intelligent as they like to think they are and half as devoted to their animals as they boast they are then they would do a little bit of reading and learn differently.  The "Pit Bull" was originally a hunting dog in the early colonies. "Pit Bull" pedigrees date all the way back to the 1700s.  The pit bull breed has been a registered breed longer than most AKC breeds we know today. Man bred this breed to be able to hunt and take down large aniamls such as bulls (a hint about the name of the dog) and boars and also became known as the Butcher's Dog.  

As we no longer have to go out into the woods and hunt our dinner the Pit Bull has become more of a domesticated family pet now but even those dogs can be taught to be mean.  Pit Bull Rescue Central says it best when they state, "There is NO justifiable reason to throw two dogs in a pit and watch them tear each other apart. "  




The Pit bull is a wonderful, loyal, loving breed.  Pit Bulls have qualities and characteristics that can make them the best companion ever but these same charancteristics can be manipulated to destroy a wonderful being. Pit Bulls are intelligent, very responsive to training, and, above all, eager to please. With this traits Pit Bulls should be enrolled in obedience training as soon as they are up to date on their vaccinations to begin learning the skills to be excellent companions. A well behaved PIt Bull is the BEST way to fight breed prejudices.   


Pit Bulls can live in a city or country environment as long as they have plenty of exercise to eliminate their energy. While many Pit Bulls can be laid back couch potatoes once they reach maturity they are also known for their rambunctious playful behaviors throughout their lives.  


Pit bulls are energetic, agile, and strong. They are also very resourceful and driven. Determination is one of their most notable traits: They put their heart and soul into whatever they set out to do, whether it is escaping an inadequately fenced yard to explore the neighborhood, destroying your new couch if left home alone without a proper outlet to combat boredom, or climbing into your lap to shower you with kisses!


Pit Bulls tend to LOVE people.  All people. Most Pit Bulls are too friendly to protect a house against strangers unless they have been taught to be people aggressive.  Breeding of Pit Bulls with bad temperments is one of the largest problems facing the Pit Bull today.  Pit Bulls tend to be very gentle with their family and desire only to please them.  Pit Bulls are natural pack animals and with a strong PACK LEADER (this means you) will fall into the pecking order. Pit Bulls with proper temperment and training will inspire devotion from their pack leader who has properly trained and provided for their Pit Bull and you can often hear RESPONSIBLE Pit Bull owners say they will never own another breed. 


Breed:
American Pit Bull Terrier/ American Staffordshire Terrier

Average Life Span:
12-14 years

Typical Health Problems:
Generally healthy, may be subject to Parvo, hip displaysia, hereditary cataracts and allergies.

Personality:
Pit bulls tend to be very dependent on their humans and crave love and attention.




On average, pit bulls tend to be very confident and outgoing dogs. However, their natural confidence can be eroded by severe abuse or long confinement with little human contact.

What are these dogs surrendered for typically?
Owner turn-ins of pit bulls are usually due to dog aggression (which is often mistaken for human aggression by inexperienced owners).

Other reasons include:

• Destructive chewing, which is usually out of frustration and lack of exercise
• Too much energy/lack of time for dog and breed specific legislation against pit bulls in the area/moving to an area with breed specific legislation.
• Pit bulls also often are brought in as strays or confiscated from abusive owners, dog fighters, or criminals.

How do these dogs handle rescue or shelter life?
Being an extremely people-oriented breed as well as one that tends to be dog aggressive, the typical pit bull is not happy in a kennel setting. This breed does, however, do well in a home fostering situation, as they tend to bond quickly with new people. How well they tolerate a rescue or shelter depends heavily on the amount of human attention, contact, and exercise they receive, as well as on the individual dog's temperament and past experiences.

Obedience Training

Obedience Training techniques and equipment  

Obedience training can be accomplished at home, in an obedience class, or with a private trainer. It requires patience, a collar, a leash, a sense of humor, patience, and an understanding of dog behavior. That understanding can come from one or more of the many excellent books written about training dogs or from an obedience instructor or dog trainer.

Consistency is important in dog training. For example, if Panda was allowed to sit on the sofa yesterday and is yelled at for joining Aunt Karen on the sofa today, Panda will be confused. It's better to teach Panda "up" and "off" so she'll climb on the furniture only when invited. If Mom says that Jackson gets only dog food and treats, and your visitors feed him from the table, Jackson will learn to beg and ultimately to steal in spite of Mom's efforts. Then, when he feasts on the roast, he's really in the doghouse for doing something he's actually been "trained" to do.

Training should be fun. Every training session should be punctuated with play, praise, and affection. NaNook should look forward to each session, just as he looks forward to his daily exercise and once obedience is mastered NaNook can start on his guard training. Every exercise should be useful at home. The dog should learn to sit on command and be conditioned to sit before going through a doorway, getting in or out of the car, before getting his dinner or a treat, and before getting petted by strangers or visitors. A sitting dog cannot knock a bowl of food out of your hand, lunge through a narrow opening in the door, jump out of the car before you clip on the leash, and so on.

The dog should learn to lie down so he won't beg at the table or bother the kids at play and will ride quietly in the car, etc. He should learn to stand still so he can be groomed or examined by the veterinarian. He should learn to walk on a leash without pulling; allow his feet, ears, and teeth to be handled; and come when he's called, wherever or whenever.

Add a few tricks to the repertoire for fun and deal with the problems as they arise, and you'll have a well-mannered pets and be able to move on to guard training.

The Rottweiler Breed

My passion has been the Rottweiler for many years. The Rottweiler has a large boxy head and a powerful body. Muscular and athletic, this dogs body was built for work. The muzzle is well-developed with a scissor bite. The Rottweilers eyes are dark with an expression of goodwill, curiosity and loyalty. The ears are triangular, carried forward, and its nose is wide and black. The lips are black and inside the mouth it is dark-colored. The tail is customarily docked within three days of birth. Often born with rear dewclaws which are usually removed when the tail is docked. The coat is short, hard and thick. It is black with brown markings on the cheeks and muzzle, paws and legs.

Rottweiler bitches often have large litters; 12 puppies are not uncommon. With the two litters my female had there were 12 puppies each time.

Some claim there are two variations of Rotties, the German Rottweiler and the American Rottweiler. German Rotties are said to be shorter, stockier and have a bigger blockier head, and American Rotties are said to be taller and leggier without the block head. In any case, there are breeders breeding for the German Rottweiler look, which goes outside the AKC standard, while others are breeding for the American Rottweiler look, which follows the AKC standard more closely. Most people when they think of the Rottweiler and are considering purchasing one for their companion are looking for the more boxy look however, I believe a Rottie is a Rottie and all are loveable, loyal creatures with the exceptional ability of being an excellent companion when cared for correctly!

Temperment

The Rottweiler companion has gained a bad reputation through much help from inappropriate breeding, training (or should I say lack of training) and abuse. The Rottweiler is calm, gentle, loyal, obedient and extremely loyal to its primary caregiver. The Rottweiler will protect its master/mistress fiercly. They are very strong fighters and almost appear to be immune to feeling pain. Firm and careful training is a must for ANY Rottweiler to be able to control these extremely desirable traits. Without proper and continuous training these dogs could become quit dangerous when left to be as they desire. Without training you could end up with an extremely dangerous and aggressive companion.

Because of a Rottweilers size if you are considering a Rottweiler as your companion it is imperative that you are able to control and properly handle their size and strength. Rottweilers are extremely intelligent and if you are not the alpha dog in the pack then your Rottweiler will assume the leader of pack leader and the Rottweilers idea of being pack leader is not the most socialized, well behaved example. Dogs natural instinct is to live as a pack and every pack has its own pecking order. The human members of the pack must establish that they are first in the pecking order. Children must be trained to lead Rottweilers as well as their adult pack members. The primary caregiver usually is identified as the pack leader. Establishing the pack leader role is the only way to have a successful pack that includes a Rottweiler. Socialization is also another key factor in proper training. We all want our Rottweilers to protect our homes and families but we want them to be gentle with our friends and loved ones who come to visit or whom we visit.

Height and Weight Statistics

Height: 24-27 inches (61-69 cm.) Bitches 22-25 inches (56-63 cm.)Weight: Dogs 95-130 pounds (43-59 kg.) Bitches 85-115 pounds (38-52 kg.)

Proper exersice is a must with a large breed dog such as a Rottweiler. Too much weight on a Rottie can lead to joint issues and other health problems.

Health Problems

The Rottweiler is prone to cancer, hip displasia and other joint related diseases, and other gastro intestinal diseases. Educating yourself on these ailments and what causes them will help in the proper care and long life of your companion.

Living Environment

Rottweilers can adapt to any living environment when proper exercise is provided. A Rottweiler requires long fast paced walks at least once a day, preferably twice if possible. Rottweilers are relatively inactive when indoors and should have a proper yard or place where they can exercise regularly.

Rottweilers do not have a natural desire to wander away from their pack so open spaces where they can freely run are excellent options. Rottweilers are also excellent swimmers and love to play fetch. Their desire is to please their master/mistress.

Life Span

Rottweilers normal life expectancy is 10-12 years.

Grooming

A Rottweiler requires little grooming. Their coat requires a regular brushing with a bristled brush and bathing only when needed. Shedding for the Rottweiler is pretty average but most peoples idea of what is average differs. I personally have no carpet in my home and I sweep every room in my house (2 bedroom, living room, dining room, kitchen) twice a week.

Group

The Rottweiler belongs to the AKC working dog class. It is believed that they originate from the Mastiffs.