30 Kasım 2012 Cuma

Guest Blogger Mary Haight's Mad Dash in the Amazon!

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Jungles of Peru and Amazon CARES, Mad Dash

by MARY HAIGHT on AUGUST 12, 2012Suddenly it was Friday and my flight to the jungles of Peru was looming – it was a mad dash to get my dog Tashi over to his Aunt Elizabeth’s place then it was off to O’Hare. After three airports, as many planes and ten-and-a-half hours of flight time, I made it to Iquitos and Amazon CARES, blurry-eyed and headed to what I thought would be a bed somewhere.Amazon CARESAs I and my fellow volunteers arrived, we all got a surprise – Amazon Cares arranged a tour for us to meet the Yaguas, a jungle tribe and go to a sanctuary known as monkey island. We quickly learned what Iquitos had to offer. And even in my travel worn state, I got it – pictures and all!It has been a whirlwind of activity since I landed with boat rides up and down the Amazon – not the whole river of course, that would take days – and today was the first day we got a chance to see the dogs. I’ve taken a picture of every one of them and will have a little “guess the breed” competition when I get them uploaded. The dogs I met were all happy to see us, coming up to greet with excited wags and barks.The real work of volunteering starts tomorrow with surgeries in town. I’ll be back with a more detailed report later on, but for now take a look at a couple of the photos from my first day in Iquitos – there are more stories to tell from blow gun practice to pink dolphins!
Amazon CARES If you want to receive a daily text update during the vet campaign which ends Aug. 26, US and Canada residents can text the word “YES” to US number  919-208-8561.To further spread awareness about Amazon CARES and our tremendous work, consider sharing our blog posts on Twitter and Facebook by joining our Atomic Tribe at: JoinTri.be/31520

Street Dogs, Marco's Story

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By Guest Blogger Mary Haight originally published on August 16, 2012 at dancingdogblog

by DancingDogBlog.com
The other day, a man named Marco brought a little six week old furry pup to be seen by Amazon CARES volunteer vets at the health fair – he knew the dog was very sick. He looked at me with hope – maybe he was wrong, maybe the dog would be fine. Of course I said nothing, but asked where he learned to speak English and it turned out he had lived in New York for eight years.

We talked about everything but dogs until one of the vets was free to assess health. Marco asked if I knew about Copa Airlines new direct flight from Miami to Iquitos for $500 and I expressed my surprise. Then Dr. Megan was free to take a look – Parvo virus, no hope.

The pup was a stray – what Marco did seemed very different to what I’d seen on the streets and at the health fair. No one brings street dogs to these events, Amazon CARES staff and volunteers take nets and catch them (if you think that big fish you caught put up a fight, try this!)

Street dogs are feared and chased away from family pets with kicks and shouts. The dogs are pretty savvy and have learned to avoid contact. It costs money to keep dogs healthy and people want to keep them safe from health problems.

Cultural differences? Perhaps in the methods. We all protect what we love – I don’t doubt this happens in the US. It’s tough to change cultural habits, as we are very well aware of in the US with spay/neuter, adoption – look how long it took “pets are part of the family” to become a significant part of the culture. This story underscores the importance of education programs for upcoming generations that create a safe place for animals.

I was glad to meet Marco and the puppy he had tried to save – it showed me another side of what might be happening here. People learn from each other and an act of kindness does not go unnoticed. Even if his neighbors all think he is crazy at first, attitudes can and do change.

What Was the Sentence in Iquito's First Animal Abuse Case?

To contact us Click HERE
Animal welfare advocates are celebrating in Peru!  Especially in Iquitos!

In a July blog we wrote about a milestone agreement with the local Bar Association and Amazon CARES.

Yesterday, the fruits of our labors smelled so sweet.  After working with the government to toughen laws and enforce existing ones, we brought our first animal abuse case to trial.

Yesterday, the judge handed down a harsh sentence in the case, a true victory for Amazon CARES and our wonderful pro-bono attorneys of the Bar Association.

Much press has been given to this news.  Below, I have done my best to translate the original article located at http://proycontra.com.pe/2012/09/26/sentenciada-por-envenenamiento/

The Poisoning Sentence

Sandra Padilla sentence for animal abuse

Sandra Padilla is Sentenced for the Mistreatment of Animals
Sandra Padilla previously appealed the judge's ruling, claiming a lack of evidence for the crime for which she is charged.
Sandra Milagros Padilla Alvis, never imagined that an attempt on the life of Arthas, a puppy of 5 months, owned by Alfredo Martín Díaz García, would result in being charged for a crime.  In the 3rd Counsel Magistrates Court she was sentenced for offenses against morality under an Animal Abuse and Cruelty Code.
On February 18, 2012, Sandra Padilla Alfredo Diaz threatened to end the life of Arthas.  The next day the woman stayed true to her word, poisoning and killing the little pet.
R.I.P. Arthas.

Arthas was poisoned

After seven months of court procedures,  Sandra Padilla has been sentenced to pay fines of 2000 Peruvian Nuevo Soles that will cost her 25% of her daily income for next 200 days.   She will be paying S/ 1200 to the state and S/ 800 in damages to Alfredo Diaz.  The convicted must pay the fine within ten days. *
Alfredo Diaz tells the story, remembering what happened to his puppy and saying that it was time to have justice for the life of Arthas.  His speaking up is a sign of progress for Amazon CARES, which constantly advocates that people should not remain silent about these abuses.
"I feel good for having done justice to the life of Arthas who died in my arms because of the cruelty of Sandra Padilla, now I hope to do justice to the abuse that occurs with many animals." Diaz Garcia added.
Alfredo Diaz poisoned dog owner
It should be noted that Amazon CARES has spent years in a constant struggle to assert the rights of animals for the first time in Iquitos.  They stated that the daily abuse of animals are illegal and immoral and that animals are also living beings with rights. 

*1200 Nuevo Peruvian Soles = $462 US800 Nuevo Peruvian Soles = $308 USTotal fine $770 US 
For up-to date currency exchange rates, visit http://www.xe.com/ucc/

It's ALMOST too late to win this great prize!

To contact us Click HERE

It's not too late to enter to win!  Raffle ends October 1.  Tickets are $5 and you can call (208) 772-3288 today or Monday to buy a chance to win!  Thank you to Hayden Pet Medical Center and Kendall and Donna French Bodkin who are always so supportive of our work!  They also worked as Veterinary Volunteers in Peru during 2011!

According to Donna French Bodkin:
"
We are doing a raffle for a beautiful tapestry from Peru. Tickets are $5 each. The drawing will be on October 1, 2012. All of the money raised will go to support the non-profit organization "Amazon Cares". For more information about this group, you can go to their website at www.amazoncares.org. We have seen this group in action and they do wonderful work. They rescued my Keara, cared for h
er, and helped me get her into the US. They have had a very difficult year due to the extensive flooding of the Amazon and nearly lost everything. We want to help them get back on their feet. If you don't live in the area, you can still mail us a check or call with a credit card number and we will be happy to get your name in the raffle."
Located in Idaho, the Hayden Pet Medical Clinic is open today (Saturday) until 12 pm and on Monday, October 1 from &:30 Am to 6 PM.  The center is located in the Pacific Time Zone!

Every geometric icon in this tapestry, based upon the Inca calendar, advises dates and seasons to plant and harvest. Indians hand-weave these piece with careful dedication following the techniques instilled by parents and grandparents with a view to preserve Peru's legendary weaving traditions. A work of resplendent artistry for the admirer of pre-Hispanic astrology.

I also want to note that all the colors in this work of art come from natural sources. During a recent trip to the Andes region, a guide pointed out many different colorful flowers that are used and/or mixed together to create natural dyes for the fabric. Vegetables and their roots also contribute colors for natural dies. Thus, a person should take care in the cleaning of this item. This item works wonderfully as an area rug in a small hallway (carpeted or wood floored) or as a beautiful wall hanging which also serve to absorb sound if you live in a place with thin walls. Thank you to Donna French Bodkin and Hayden Pet Medical Center for their enduring support of Amazon CARES!

PLEASE ENTER TO WIN!!  And be sure to read this great article about their Amazon adventure!

Vet Professionals: What's on Your Bucket List?

To contact us Click HERE
Alex Schroth dances the Salsa with
Amazon CARES Vet Tech Harry
Did you set goals for 2012?  Have you met them all?  Have you experienced something totally new and brave and different and exotic?  If that was on your bucket list, and you haven't met that criteria...it's your lucky day!  You have just enough time to join the final vet trip of the year with Amazon CARES. And this trip is a great one...

After a week in Iquitos serving poorer areas with spay/neuter clinics and also TNR of street dogs and cats, we will travel by boat to Caballo Cocha, just across the lake from Columbia.

During the first week you'll be staying at the super comfortable Amazon CARES lodge eating delicious food by Marlene.  Seriously, all volunteers say the best food they get is from Marlene.

During the second week, we are guests of the government.  Accommodations probably won't be so plush, and the food with be what the Peruvians eat (lots of fish, chicken and rice)!  But hey, that's all part of the adventure.

Many people met some lofty goals this year with Amazon CARES.

Dr. Jackie Imai fell in love!

Dr. Sean Pampreen went on the trip of a lifetime!

Director Molly Mednikow learned to survive without a smartphone!

Amazing friendships are formed!
And more!  What will happen when YOU come to the Amazon?


Read more about this amazing trip and apply online TODAY!   $750 is an amazing price for two weeks with almost everything included!  Check out new routes on copaair.com that fly you into Iquitos, bypassing Lima (and another flight).

29 Kasım 2012 Perşembe

Meth making, cat hoarding home comes down

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ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A dangerous home with a history of making meth and hoarding cats is being torn down in Albuquerque South Valley.The Bernalillo County Health Department and Animal Control first inspected the home, located on the 2100 block of Metzger, a year ago after receiving a complaint about too many animals being located on the property.Officials found piles of trash, feces and more than a dozen cats. But that was just the start of it, upon further investigation the strong smell of chemicals led inspectors to the making of a meth lab.County officials say they had no other choice but to tear the problem house down, and that’s exactly what they did.After coming to an agreement with the property owner, bulldozers came out the home Tuesday to take it down.Nearby residents say they’re happy to see the house come down. Demolition crews dug straight into the roof Tuesday and will continue through Wednesday to finish taking the house down..."  More & video

Valpo area home raided for animal neglect

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By Amy Lavalley 



As officials from Porter County Animal Control and the county’s animal shelter rounded up her pets, Deborah Brewer blamed “a severe depression” for the condition of her house, which reportedly was, in some places, inches deep with animal feces.


“It’s my worst nightmare, taking the only things I love in this world,” she said Monday outside her home at 405 Sturgeon Drive, in the Salt Creek Commons subdivision. She said she is willing to relinquish her dogs to the Porter County Animal Shelter for adoption, but not her 10 cats.“I cannot afford to bail them out,” she said of the dogs, adding she knows they will be properly cared for if they are adopted.In all, Animal Control seized seven dogs and one cat from the home; Brewer agreed to surrender the rest of the cats once she catches them.Brewer, 61, faces charges of animal neglect, a Class A misdemeanor; the case is being forwarded on to the Porter County Prosecutor’s Office. Brewer must post bond for a hearing to get her pets back; if she does not post bond in 10 days, they will be put up for adoption..."  More

Ogden dog hoarder wonders why he did it

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A 60-year-old man says he doesn’t know how he let his good intention to rescue dogs turn into a hoarding situation that ended with last week’s removal of 149 sick and starving Chihuahua dogs from his home in Ogden."I don’t understand me," Miguel Salgado told the Standard-Examiner (http://bit.ly/XSaEuv ). "I think now: ‘Why?’"Animal services officers and volunteers removed the mixed-breed Chihuahuas from his home and took them to four agencies. Health officials have told Salgado he can’t live in the house until it’s cleaned out and he will have to replace all his furnishings, including clothes. Until then, he is staying with friends.Salgado said he shut off his electricity and telephone service to pay for dog food, of which the dogs went through an estimated 100 pounds a week.He said things got out of control after he underwent open-heart surgery two years ago. He took in strays, dogs given to him by neighbors and canines dumped over his fence by others. Only a few were spayed or neutered."The doctors tell me, ‘You lucky man. No operation, you dead,’ " said Salgado, who speaks limited English. "All I’m thinking is, ‘What happen to my dogs?’ "When animal services officers and volunteers removed the Chihuahuas from his home, the dogs were suffering from starvation and ammonia burns from exposure to urine. Some have birth defects from inbreeding. They will be put up for adoption after receiving shots and an examination by a veterinarian.Salgado cried as he talked about the dogs being gone..."  More

Humane Society given custody of 173 seized animals: Owner will not appeal decision

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The Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT) was awarded custody Monday of 173 animals recently seized in Denton County. The species involved include guinea pigs, cats, chickens, rabbits, goats, donkeys, doves, ducks, geese and an emu.


The animals were seized from their owner on Sunday, Nov. 11.

“Discovering many different species, especially in pairs like this, signals a suspected breeding situation,” said Shelly Meeks, lead investigator at the HSNT, in a release following the seizure. “The conditions were absolutely deplorable, with feces and animal carcasses everywhere, as well as inadequate food and water. There were animals forced to live in small enclosures with animal carcasses.”

The owner chose not to appeal the custody decision, and the HSNT will now be able to begin placing the animals with new owners. The organization is preparing 30 bunnies for adoption, by spaying and neutering them, as well as several donkeys, pigeons and doves. Those interested in adopting an animal can mail, fax or turn in an application at the HSNT office at 1840 East Lancaster Avenue in Fort Worth.

The 173-animal seizure came just over a month after two additional instances of mass animal neglect. The Flower Mound Police Department recently recovered 51 Maltese mix-breed dogs abandoned on the side of the road days after the HSNT recovered 41 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels abandoned in Sanger.

Flower Mound police captain Richard Brooks said the dogs recovered by his department had “mud and feces in their hair.” All the dogs have since been adopted, but a $1,000 reward is being offered to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of the party responsible for dumping the dogs..."  More

Great Danes hoarded in Mpls. home

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  • by: PAUL WALSH

Authorities in Minneapolis have uncovered a hoarding case involving a breed of dog known for its mammoth size, and now they are on a mission to find good homes for the animals.Seven Great Danes were living in "filthy conditions and ... had very little socialization and care" in a home, said city spokesman Matt Lindstrom.The dogs' owner surrendered them to the city's Animal Care and Control, which placed two puppies in new homes and began handing over the other five -- all adults -- to a rescue organization in two stages starting Monday."They are wonderful dogs, but they are big dogs," said Ann Heinrich, whose Great Dane Rescue of Minnesota and Wisconsin took in three of the dogs Monday and will return for the other two Wednesday.Danes are considered the world's tallest breed, standing more than 3 feet tall from paw to shoulder and weighing at least 100 pounds by adulthood. It's the size of the five dogs that requires Heinrich to make two trips for the handoff.Even though the dogs' owner cooperated with Animal Control, "this case is still under investigation for possible animal cruelty" charges, Lindstrom said.Photos taken two weeks ago and released by the city show a thoroughly trashed living room and filth surrounding a kiddie swimming pool made into a dog's bed.In light of this case, Animal Care and Control officials said in a statement that a residence with a large number of animals is "not a healthy environment for the people or the pets."..."  More

28 Kasım 2012 Çarşamba

Have You Fallen in Crazy Love with a Homeless Dog?

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"It happens all the timeThis crazy love of mineWraps around my heartRefusin' to unwind"
lyrics from "Crazy Love" by Rusty Young
Help Darba travel from Peru to Australia!
That is exactly what has happened to Leticia, a charismatic young woman from Australia.  She came to Peru five months ago and adopted a homeless street dog.  The dog, a male named Darba, is in extremely good health and very well trained (albeit in Spanish), as well as house-broken.
Now it is time for Leticia to return home, and Australia is a country with very tough restrictions regarding the entrance of animals into their sovereign nation.
Amazon CARES wants to help Leticia in any way possible.  As the proud owner of an imported Peruvian dog in the US (@MarilynMonrowf), I understand how hard it is to say goodbye once a street dog becomes a pet and "wraps around your heart."
I can bring Darba to the US in early October, airline permitting.  The ideal situation would be for Darba to somehow end up in the Los Angeles area, as this would be the point of departure for Australia.  Leticia is willing to pay for any costs involved in the care and transport of Darba.  Darba needs to stay in the US for 5 months and receive many vaccines and tests before the Australian government will allow him to be reunited with his forever family.
Can you help?  I can get him to Atlanta, Georgia.  He could stay in Atlanta for a while or be transported directly to California.  Please comment below if you have any ideas to help Leticia and Darba.  We are in a rush, as I, along with other volunteers, leave for the more remote jungle on Friday!
You can keep up with our exciting volunteer trip at http://www.dancingdogblog.com/
If you want to receive a daily text update during the vet campaign which ends Aug. 26, US and Canada residents can text the word “YES” to US number 919-208-8561.To further spread awareness about Amazon CARES tremendous work, consider sharing blog posts on Twitter and Facebook by joining Atomic Tribe at: JoinTri.be/31520

Spay Neuter in the Amazon, Big “Fix” Begins

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by Guest Blogger MARY HAIGHT, originally published on DancingDogBlog.com on AUGUST 14, 2012

A rooster calls the start of the day at what I think must be 4am, then he makes a sound that is a lot like laughter…joke’s on you, it’s not daybreak yet! The volunteer lodge has signs of quiet shifting happening – soon enough we’ll be setting up for area surgeries.

Dr. Sean Pampreen operates with curious onlookers.  © DancingDogBlog
Breakfast omelets, fresh juice and the ever present carbs got everyone ready for what would be a long day. Big plastic oval picnic type tables, the kind you would buy at your local home store for the back yard, were set up for spay neuter surgeries, washed and covered with plastic sheets firmly taped to the sides. Medicines, needles, betadine, sterilized surgical items carefully wrapped and all other necessary items for spay/neuter, fleas, and whatnot were brought in by the mobile clinic and set up on the vet’s table. Soap, alcohol, a dilution of Clorox were at the ready to meet pre and post op needs. 

Dr. Megan Prendergrast at work in Cabo Lopez. © DancingDogBlog
It started off with two dogs, then one, then suddenly there were ten and more coming…the vets were off and running, standing for hours and hours, in heat that creates a constant slick on your forehead, and you should see what pours out of the surgical gloves as they slide off their hands. Yet did I hear complaints? Not one…well, barring the joke made by one who wanted to know where the music was for his “operating room”.

Neighbors have told neighbors and word has gotten out to bring your dogs for sterilization, a general exam, flea preventive, and solutions for sick dogs. Medications are limited and vet volunteers have brought some meds with them. I was thinking it would be great if one of the large drug companies could back the work of this organization by providing much needed medical supplies.The work that is done by the volunteer vets during the four sessions a year Amazon CARES has for this massive spay neuter effort is fantastic. 

Dr. Sealy Racelle LaMar of Northtown Veterinary Hospital explains a procedure.  © DancingDogBlog
None of this hard work stops with sterilization.Long after the vet volunteers are gone, Amazon CARES continues their work with a very fine local staff of vets and nurses at their spay/neuter clinic in Iquitos, educates local populations via a new television show and their well-established outreach programs in the schools.Amazon CARES regularly rescues street dogs for not only sterilization, but to treat disease. The end of July and beginning of August saw a massive response to special low-cost treatments at the clinic. The volunteer veterinary trips help the group branch out to surrounding areas, servicing remote villages with no regular doctors, let alone veterinary services.

Every day here is like a free sauna, and will be more pronounced (do not ask me how that is possible lol) when we get to the deep jungle near the Brazilian boarder. That’s where the only shower you’re going to get is when it rains or when you decide it’s safe to swim in the Amazon. If you are recalling that House episode about the tiny fish that got up the wrong place, believe me, I’m thinking about it:) 

 Tomorrow we go to a poverty ridden neighborhood outside Iquitos. More to come later!



To further spread awareness about Amazon CARES tremendous work, consider sharing blog posts on Twitter and Facebook by joining Atomic Tribe at: JoinTri.be/31520

What Was the Sentence in Iquito's First Animal Abuse Case?

To contact us Click HERE
Animal welfare advocates are celebrating in Peru!  Especially in Iquitos!

In a July blog we wrote about a milestone agreement with the local Bar Association and Amazon CARES.

Yesterday, the fruits of our labors smelled so sweet.  After working with the government to toughen laws and enforce existing ones, we brought our first animal abuse case to trial.

Yesterday, the judge handed down a harsh sentence in the case, a true victory for Amazon CARES and our wonderful pro-bono attorneys of the Bar Association.

Much press has been given to this news.  Below, I have done my best to translate the original article located at http://proycontra.com.pe/2012/09/26/sentenciada-por-envenenamiento/

The Poisoning Sentence

Sandra Padilla sentence for animal abuse

Sandra Padilla is Sentenced for the Mistreatment of Animals
Sandra Padilla previously appealed the judge's ruling, claiming a lack of evidence for the crime for which she is charged.
Sandra Milagros Padilla Alvis, never imagined that an attempt on the life of Arthas, a puppy of 5 months, owned by Alfredo Martín Díaz García, would result in being charged for a crime.  In the 3rd Counsel Magistrates Court she was sentenced for offenses against morality under an Animal Abuse and Cruelty Code.
On February 18, 2012, Sandra Padilla Alfredo Diaz threatened to end the life of Arthas.  The next day the woman stayed true to her word, poisoning and killing the little pet.
R.I.P. Arthas.

Arthas was poisoned

After seven months of court procedures,  Sandra Padilla has been sentenced to pay fines of 2000 Peruvian Nuevo Soles that will cost her 25% of her daily income for next 200 days.   She will be paying S/ 1200 to the state and S/ 800 in damages to Alfredo Diaz.  The convicted must pay the fine within ten days. *
Alfredo Diaz tells the story, remembering what happened to his puppy and saying that it was time to have justice for the life of Arthas.  His speaking up is a sign of progress for Amazon CARES, which constantly advocates that people should not remain silent about these abuses.
"I feel good for having done justice to the life of Arthas who died in my arms because of the cruelty of Sandra Padilla, now I hope to do justice to the abuse that occurs with many animals." Diaz Garcia added.
Alfredo Diaz poisoned dog owner
It should be noted that Amazon CARES has spent years in a constant struggle to assert the rights of animals for the first time in Iquitos.  They stated that the daily abuse of animals are illegal and immoral and that animals are also living beings with rights. 

*1200 Nuevo Peruvian Soles = $462 US800 Nuevo Peruvian Soles = $308 USTotal fine $770 US 
For up-to date currency exchange rates, visit http://www.xe.com/ucc/

It's ALMOST too late to win this great prize!

To contact us Click HERE

It's not too late to enter to win!  Raffle ends October 1.  Tickets are $5 and you can call (208) 772-3288 today or Monday to buy a chance to win!  Thank you to Hayden Pet Medical Center and Kendall and Donna French Bodkin who are always so supportive of our work!  They also worked as Veterinary Volunteers in Peru during 2011!

According to Donna French Bodkin:
"
We are doing a raffle for a beautiful tapestry from Peru. Tickets are $5 each. The drawing will be on October 1, 2012. All of the money raised will go to support the non-profit organization "Amazon Cares". For more information about this group, you can go to their website at www.amazoncares.org. We have seen this group in action and they do wonderful work. They rescued my Keara, cared for h
er, and helped me get her into the US. They have had a very difficult year due to the extensive flooding of the Amazon and nearly lost everything. We want to help them get back on their feet. If you don't live in the area, you can still mail us a check or call with a credit card number and we will be happy to get your name in the raffle."
Located in Idaho, the Hayden Pet Medical Clinic is open today (Saturday) until 12 pm and on Monday, October 1 from &:30 Am to 6 PM.  The center is located in the Pacific Time Zone!

Every geometric icon in this tapestry, based upon the Inca calendar, advises dates and seasons to plant and harvest. Indians hand-weave these piece with careful dedication following the techniques instilled by parents and grandparents with a view to preserve Peru's legendary weaving traditions. A work of resplendent artistry for the admirer of pre-Hispanic astrology.

I also want to note that all the colors in this work of art come from natural sources. During a recent trip to the Andes region, a guide pointed out many different colorful flowers that are used and/or mixed together to create natural dyes for the fabric. Vegetables and their roots also contribute colors for natural dies. Thus, a person should take care in the cleaning of this item. This item works wonderfully as an area rug in a small hallway (carpeted or wood floored) or as a beautiful wall hanging which also serve to absorb sound if you live in a place with thin walls. Thank you to Donna French Bodkin and Hayden Pet Medical Center for their enduring support of Amazon CARES!

PLEASE ENTER TO WIN!!  And be sure to read this great article about their Amazon adventure!

Vet Professionals: What's on Your Bucket List?

To contact us Click HERE
Alex Schroth dances the Salsa with
Amazon CARES Vet Tech Harry
Did you set goals for 2012?  Have you met them all?  Have you experienced something totally new and brave and different and exotic?  If that was on your bucket list, and you haven't met that criteria...it's your lucky day!  You have just enough time to join the final vet trip of the year with Amazon CARES. And this trip is a great one...

After a week in Iquitos serving poorer areas with spay/neuter clinics and also TNR of street dogs and cats, we will travel by boat to Caballo Cocha, just across the lake from Columbia.

During the first week you'll be staying at the super comfortable Amazon CARES lodge eating delicious food by Marlene.  Seriously, all volunteers say the best food they get is from Marlene.

During the second week, we are guests of the government.  Accommodations probably won't be so plush, and the food with be what the Peruvians eat (lots of fish, chicken and rice)!  But hey, that's all part of the adventure.

Many people met some lofty goals this year with Amazon CARES.

Dr. Jackie Imai fell in love!

Dr. Sean Pampreen went on the trip of a lifetime!

Director Molly Mednikow learned to survive without a smartphone!

Amazing friendships are formed!
And more!  What will happen when YOU come to the Amazon?


Read more about this amazing trip and apply online TODAY!   $750 is an amazing price for two weeks with almost everything included!  Check out new routes on copaair.com that fly you into Iquitos, bypassing Lima (and another flight).

27 Kasım 2012 Salı

City Council approves amended contract with PARKatlanta to address motorist concerns

To contact us Click HERE
The Atlanta CityCouncil Monday approved 13-0 an amended contractual agreement with PARKatlantato address continued concerns from motorists and to improve customer relations.

The legislation wasintroduced by City Council Member H. Lamar Willis.
“I think the passageof this legislation demonstrates that we as a council….hear the voices of ourconstituents, and are taking the right steps to alleviate their concerns withregards to PARKatlanta,” said Councilman At Large H. Lamar Willis whointroduced the legislation.
“I believe that withPARKatlanta having to pay penalties to the city for improper enforcement, wewill see improved signage, a more efficient complaint mediation process, andbetter customer service,” Willis added.
PARKatlanta, asubsidiary of Duncan Solutions, signed a seven-year contract with the city in2009 to, among other things, purchase, install and collect money from newmeters, install parking signs and street markings, and issue parking citations.
Some of the keyprovisions under the new amended PARKatlanta agreement are:
  • PARKatlanta will nowmaintain all parking related signage in right-of-way.
  • PARKatlanta  mustprovide an online process for filing complaints on its website.
  • PARKatlanta mustrespond to all online complaints within 2 days.
  • PARKatlanta must sharewith the city all complaints, as well as PARKatlanta’s responses to thosecomplaints.
  • PARKatlanta must havea specific phone number dedicated solely to questions and complaints.
  • PARKatlanta employee mustreceive improved training that is approved by the city.
“Today’s votesignifies council’s commitment to improving the customer experience withPARKatlanta,” said Council President Mitchell. “I look forward to working withPARKatlanta as we implement these enhancements to the parking program inresponse to the public’s concerns over fees and enforcement.”

Under the amended contract, citations may not be issued:  where meters arenon-functioning;  where unclear, conflicting, or hidden signage is in place; wheresignage needs to be repaired, replaced, or relocated, or  where signage is notinstalled, has been removed, or is otherwise missing from a metered area.
If a ticket is issuedin any of these cases, the ticket shall be promptly voided by PARKatlanta oncethey are made aware.
As a result of theseconcessions, PARKatlanta will pay the city $5.3 million annually instead of$5.5 million.

Buckhead’s Brand Properties planned apartment & townhouse project on Peachtree spurs controversy

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Buckhead-based BrandProperties’ proposed development of 147 apartments along possibly 13townhouses, to be located along Peachtree Road between Club Drive and BellaireDrive, has the surrounding Historic Brookhaven neighborhood a little more thanon edge.

The controversy over thedevelopment was a key reason for a recent discussion by the Commission onBrookhaven of the urgent need for the new city of Brookhaven to coordinate withDeKalb County over what licenses and permits each entity will handle.
Artist's rendering of the proposed Brand Properties development 
The Commission onBrookhaven is the five-member group that was appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal to workthe past few months on developing transition options and recommendations forthe new elected officials of the city of Brookhaven, which begin cityoperations December 17.
Brand Properties, LLCapplied November 2 to DeKalb’s Planning & Development Department for an“Overlay District Certificate of Compliance” for the project which, in additionto eight townhouses fronting on Peachtree Road, includes plans for a U-shapedbuilding with five stories of apartments on top of a two-level parking deck.
Aerial view of the property along Peachtree Road (foreground) between
Club Drive and Bellaire Drive with the Historic Brookhaven neighborhood
behind and on both sides.  View taken Nov. 26. 
The development wouldstretch along Peachtree Road and be surrounded on the back and two sides by theHistoric Brookhaven neighborhood.  
The original plans callfor a Building B that would be within the city limits of Atlanta and wouldinclude five townhouses. That Building B, however, is not part of the presentapplication to DeKalb County and sources report plans for that portion of theproperty may change.
The Historic Brookhavenneighborhood is virtually split in half, including the golf course property,with half being within the Buckhead area of the city of Atlanta and the rest inDeKalb County and the boundaries of the new city of Brookhaven.   Residents along BellaireDrive have been joined by the Historic Brookhaven Neighborhood Association(HBNA) and the Brookhaven Peachtree Community Alliance (BPCA) in voicing theirobjections because they believe the “proposed development was too over-scaledfor the residential area surrounding it,” according to Jack Honderd, a BPCAboard member.
Above graphic from the submission to the DeKalb Planning & Development
Department shows the outline of the property along Peachtree Road with
Club Drive to the left and Bellaire Drive to the right, the U-shaped
building for 147 apartments, 8 townhouses along Peachtree Road and
Building B at left with 5 townhouses in the original plan submitted. 
Frank Clementi,president of HBNA, agrees, stating the neighborhood is “very concerned aboutthe density and the height of the buildings. We are in favor of smartdevelopment that fits in with the surrounding neighborhood,” Clementi added.“But six story buildings and 147 apartment units is not in line with what wewant.”
Honderd said the grouphad met with Brand Properties, the Buckhead-based owner/developer of theproperty, and with the DeKalb Planning Department to discuss the project andtry to work out a compromise that would be better for the surrounding residentialarea and the community.
“We are working with theneighborhoods to work out a plan that is beneficial to all parties,” said R.Brand Morgan, CEO of Brand Properties. He added that the small size of theproperty is somewhat restrictive in providing the opportunity to create enoughunits to make the project economically feasible, suggesting the only way to dothat is to go up.    Asked about plans forthe parcel of the property that falls within the city of Atlanta and Buckhead,Morgan replied, “Right now we are focusing on the DeKalb County part of thedevelopment.” He said his company had not determined what would be done withthe Atlanta portion of the development.
The above sketch shows the positioning of the U-shaped building with
apartments and 8 townhouses along Peachtree Road with entrances
onto both Peachtree Road and Bellaire Drive  from the DeKalb County
portion of the property. Atlanta property is the wedge at left. 
Sally Silver, chair ofthe city of Atlanta’s Neighborhood Planning Unit B in Buckhead, said she knewBrand Properties has been talking to the Atlanta’s Planning Department aboutthe project, but that nothing has been filed yet regarding what the developer plansto do with the small portion of the property that is within the Atlanta citylimits.
Silver said she hadheard there have been discussions of using that part of the property for anamenities area, but said she does not know if that has been decided upon. Shesaid she knows for sure nothing has been scheduled for a discussion of itbefore NPU-B at this time.
From Brookhaven’sperspective, Honderd said he believes the DeKalb Planning Department hasdetermined the project as originally planned does not meet all of therequirements of the “overlay district,” and Honderd added it is hisunderstanding “DeKalb will not be permitting the project as presented.”
Formed in 2004, the BPCAis a group of Brookhaven residents organized around the goal of guidingBrookhaven development along Peachtree Road and Dresden Drive.  The BPCAspurred DeKalb County to apply for the Livable Cities Initiative (LCI) study,which produced a 20-year development plan for Brookhaven.
The BPCA then workedwith DeKalb County Commissioners to codify the study’s recommendations in a newzoning ordinance for Brookhaven, called the “Brookhaven Peachtree OverlayDistrict.” The BPCA’s current role is to promote the LCI study’s goals forBrookhaven by monitoring new development to be sure it complies with the“overlay’s” requirements.
Honderd said he believesthe proposed Brand Properties development does not meet the “overlay”requirements in at least three major ways: required transitional setback, transitionalheight requirements and that the “overlay district” allowed density has beeninterpreted at 18 units per acre and the development is much greater than thatas presented.
The total acreage of theproperty in question is 2.771 acres, but the part in DeKalb that is part of theoverlay district is 2.04 acres, according the Brand Properties application andthe density is listed at 87.25 units per acre.
Brand Properties’ planfor the development calls for 147 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments inthe U-shaped building, ranging in size from 720 to 1,110 square feet insize.  The eight townhomes would be 1440square feet each. 
The plan calls for 278parking spaces in the two-level parking garage and an additional 10 surfaceparking spaces.  That averages to 1.7parking spaces per unit.
Hondred said the DeKalbPlanning Department’s ruling on these points “provides the developers and theneighbors a better idea for working on producing a project that better suitsthe surrounding area.”
Clementi said hisneighborhood “likes the idea of residential—townhomes or luxury high-endapartments—for the site” which is the last piece of property along Peachtreethat backs up to the Historic Brookhaven neighborhood. But they would like tosee something lower than four stories in height.
“It is a valuable pieceof property,” Clementi added. “Something really attractive will be an assetthere and would be welcomed.”

Milton's and Dinner & a Cause

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Welcome to Milton's Cuisine and Cocktails

Have you ever been to a place that while you were still there, you were already excited about your NEXT visit?  That’s how it was for me yesterday when we tried Milton’s Cuisine and Cocktails in Historic Crabapple for the very first time.  When we arrived, we were seated in one of the rooms of this 150 year old farmhouse.  The rich wood that adorned the floors and ceiling was a true testament of what was to come.  The food, like the wood, was a combination of old and new.  It delivered those southern favorite comfort foods, like fried okra, mac and cheese , and fried green tomatoes, yet gave a new twist. 

Pan Seared Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Once we were seated at our table, We were greeted by our waiter who not only fulfilled his duty as our server, but did so with pride.  He told us the origin of the Broadwell farmhouse, the history of the chef, Boyd Rose, and the garden in the back which delivered fresh ingredients for each and every dish.  We decided on the fried green tomato stack with goat cheese and tomato puree, as our appetizer.  Since our little one was getting restless, I decided to take her for a walk around the outdoor patio, which would definitely be a great option for your dining experience, weather permitting.  As our waiter opened the door to the patio, he suggested we walk back behind the small, red barn to checkout the garden.  So, that is exactly what we did.  When we got back there, we saw the diagram pointing out where everything had been planted.  There happened to be someone working in the garden, who was happy to point out the squash blossoms, cobs of corn on the stalk, partially grown watermelon, and tomatoes of every variety.  Not only was it a great lesson, it built excitement for our upcoming fair, and was an experience we will not soon forget.

Out Back at Milton's Milton's Acre. A Story in the Making.

We arrived back at our table to tell of our adventure only to notice our tomato stack had arrived (and had been partially eaten thanks to our dining companion who self admittedly had no will power when the dish arrived).  It was a culinary delight.  It had a basil infused olive oil that gave it a flavor that two fried green tomato connoisseurs could only dream of consuming.  Not much later, our entrees arrived, consisting of Grilled Cilantro-Basil Marinated Chicken Breast with roasted garlic spinach, asparagus, and grilled vegetable ratatouille plus the daily pasta feature which was linguine with chicken, andouille sausage, corn, tomatoes, saffron and basil.  The chicken was tender and juicy.  The Cilantro and Basil marinade added the perfect flavor combo.  The vegetables definitely delivered that fresh, local, home-grown taste...you can't beat that!  The pasta was NOT covered with a sauce that took away from the flavor of the vegetables and herbs, but instead was finished with a luster of butter that highlighted their essence.  As I savored every bite, I found myself looking forward to the next visit, wondering what I would order then, and anticipating the reaction of my friends and family as I introduce them to my new favorite.  If you are looking for a meal that is filled with a combination of nutritious vegetables, but that will indulge your cravings for your southern favorites, then head to Milton’s in Historic Crabapple.


To make your visit to Milton’s (or a large variety of other Atlanta area restaurants) a more Knowtable experience, go to the Dinner & a Cause website for more information about purchasing a card that benefits Children of Conservation and gives you a 20% discount for your entire table at over 80 participating restaurants.  Act fast!  Although you can use the card as many times as you would like until August 31, 2011, that is when the offer ends. 


What is "Children of Conservation" Project?

“In 2009, the Children of Conservation project established a scholarship program to help provide an otherwise unattainable education to the children of wildlife sanctuary workers in Africa.  Since public funding for schooling in many third world countries ends at the 2nd grade, many bright and intelligent children grow up illiterate and unable to advance their station in life. Our program focuses on educating children who learn the value of conservation every day from their sanctuary employed parents. Another aspect of the project is the benefit provided to the soldiers of conservation (the parents). The end result is better care for the animals and a culture where the future leaders come from a background of conservation.”       - www.StumpeFoundation.org

This is the first year for this fundraiser, so help them spread the word in anyway you can!

*Milton's Photos courtesy of Studio 7 Photography