Sunday, August 26, 2007

[wahyld-kahrd]


Deadly Strokes, my awesome Wednesday night team, didn't make high enough points to secure a place in the top three. The beauty of APA Billiards, is they draw a wildcard at the end of the season and that team gets to play in the play offs. We got lucky (um, thanks to the pool gods of course) and got the Wildcard!

There are just some things in life that really excite me to no end...getting a seat in playoffs via the Wildcard draw is definitely one of them. *so excited*

Look forward to a good match against Woody's team on Wednesday.

"GOD CREATED BILLIARDS TO KEEP MAN HUMBLE."

Friday, August 24, 2007

Still arresting folks using open WiFi networks...When does it stop?

Geez, can we please quit arresting folks that are using open WiFi networks?

Over the past few years, you have heard about people getting arrested for using open WiFi access and is it really a crime that deems getting arrested?

I just read about a guy in Chiswick, West London, that got arrested for using someone's open (yes open) WiFi network. The cops saw him sitting on a wall using his laptop and they proceeded to ask him what he was doing. He admitted he was using someone's wireless connection to browse the web. In the UK, it's considered a violation of a communications law and a computer misuse law - which makes no frakkin' sense. Heck, in Singapore you can get 3 years in the slammer. Yikes.

This guy wasn't physically trespassing on the property and the owner of the WiFi has it open. What's the real issue here. If the owner really wanted it closed, he would of closed it. It lies in the access point owner to secure their WiFi connection.

It's all radio waves, so when will the cops start arresting folks who use their neighbor's light shining through the window to read a book or newspaper from the street? It's the same thing right - radio waves or streams of light emitted from someone's property and hitting public areas.

In conclusion, I find it interested that cops would go around asking random people on their notebooks, "are you using unsecured wireless access?" Um, "Oh yes, officer, I'm sitting her using someone's unsecured wireless access..yes sir, I am."

Personally, If I was aquiring the wireless connection from a neighbor or other outside source, and was asked that question...well, I would just say, "I'm browsing the web." Enough said.

Now if I was honest and they arrested me...I would be sitting in a jail cell and my friendly cell mate would ask, "What are you in for?". I would reply, "I was on the internet." *giggles*

Note: I did "borrow" the WiFi image above.

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

In 4 hours...

Tonight is the last night before play offs in our 8 Ball league. We are tied for 3rd, so need to have a really strong match tonight for us to seal a seat. (You must be in the top 3 for play offs unless you happen to get lucky and pull the wild card).

We are playing a pretty strong team tonight, so we will all need to be on our best game possible. I feel good about tonight. I spoke briefly with the pool gods and they are on our side...thank goodness.

We'll have a great match tonight no matter what. I love the team we are playing and they will force us to be on our best game. Ultimately the pool gods do hold the outcome, so whatever happens...it's for a reason.

Good luck to our team and our opponents tonight.

May all your strokes be smooth.

Monday, August 20, 2007

It's about time...

Click here for the story.

Michael Vick pleaded guilty today on the indictment that was given this past Tuesday by a federal grand jury in Richmond, Virginia.

It's a very sad issue and I wish that there would simply be an eye for an eye, let the punishment fit the crime. I guarantee that people would serioiusly think twice about actions they take.

I remember watching a movie called Amores Perros about 7 years ago and it involved dogfighting in the plot of the movie. I never realized there was dogfighting and this movie made me aware of this horrible activity. (No dogs were hurt during the filming of this movie).

I have always grown up with animals and know my pets not only have made my world a better place, but have been a huge part of what completes my happiness. They are what we put into them - they are innocence, love, loyalty, respect and companions. Personally, laying down at night knowing they are right next to me, either by my bedside or laying their paw or head on my arm without wanting anything else in return...well, that's unconditional love.

I have a beautiful cat and two amazing dogs. They have the same routine everyday that I know they are going to do. They sleep until I wake up, they wait by the bathroom door until I get out of the shower and they greet me with smiles as soon as I open that door. My cat will meow until he's next to me, my puppy will stay on top of my feet where I almost trip, and my oldest dog will stay by my side with his ears pointed and tail just waggin'. It's the most awesome feeling - if you have pets, you know what I mean.

Something I can't fathom. There are over 40,000 people in the US that are involved in professional dogfighting and bets up to 100,000 for just one fight. It's illegal in the US and a felony (with the exception of Idaho and Wyoming where it is a misdemeanor). Who are these people that enjoy or seek out this? I do not get it and it turns my stomach ill.

The law states that violators can be sentenced up to three years in jail and pay over $250,000 in fines. I hope Mike Vick gets this + permanently banned from the NFL. End of story.

1. What is dogfighting?

Dogfighting is a sadistic "contest" in which two dogs—specifically bred, conditioned, and trained to fight—are placed in a pit (generally a small arena enclosed by plywood walls) to fight each other, for the spectators' gambling and entertainment. Fights average nearly an hour in length and often last more than two hours. Dogfights end when one of the dogs is no longer willing or able to continue. In addition to these dogfights, there are reports of an increase in unorganized, more spontaneous street fights in urban areas.

2. How does it cause animal suffering?

The injuries inflicted and sustained by dogs participating in dogfights are frequently severe, even fatal. The American pit bull terriers used in the majority of these fights have been specifically bred and trained for fighting and are unrelenting in their attempts to overcome their opponents. With their extremely powerful jaws, they are able to inflict severe bruising, deep puncture wounds, and broken bones.

Dogs used in these events often die of blood loss, shock, dehydration, exhaustion, or infection hours or even days after the fight. Other animals are often sacrificed as well. Some owners train their dogs for fights using smaller animals such as cats, rabbits, or small dogs. These "bait" animals are often stolen pets or animals obtained through "free to good home" advertisements.

3. Are there other concerns?

Yes. Numerous law enforcement raids have unearthed many disturbing facets of this illegal "sport." Young children are sometimes present at the events, which can promote insensitivity to animal suffering, enthusiasm for violence, and a lack of respect for the law. Illegal gambling is the norm at dogfights. Dog owners and spectators wager thousands of dollars on their favorites. Firearms and other weapons have been found at dogfights because of the large amounts of cash present. And dogfighting has been connected to other kinds of violence—even homicide, according to newspaper reports. In addition, illegal drugs are often sold and used at dogfights.

4. What other effects does the presence of dogfighting have on people and animals in a community?

Dogs used for fighting have been bred for many generations to be dangerously aggressive toward other animals. The presence of these dogs in a community increases the risk of attacks not only on other animals but also on people. Children are especially at risk, because their small size may cause a fighting dog to perceive a child as another animal.

5. Why should dogfighting be a felony offense?

There are several compelling reasons. Because dogfighting yields such large profits for participants, the minor penalties associated with misdemeanor convictions are not a sufficient deterrent. Dogfighters merely absorb these fines as part of the cost of doing business. The cruelty inherent in dogfighting should be punished by more than a slap on the hand. Dogfighting is not a spur-of-the-moment act; it is a premeditated and cruel practice.

Those involved in dogfighting go to extensive lengths to avoid detection by law enforcement, so investigations can be difficult, dangerous, and expensive. Law enforcement officials are more inclined to investigate dogfighting if it is a felony. As more states make dogfighting a felony offense, those remaining states with low penalties will become magnets for dogfighters.

6. Do some states already have felony laws?

Yes. Dogfighting is illegal in all 50 states and a felony offense in almost every state.

7. Should being a spectator also be a felony?

Yes. Spectators provide much of the profit associated with dogfighting. The money generated by admission fees and gambling helps keep this "sport" alive. Because dogfights are illegal and therefore not widely publicized, spectators do not merely happen upon a fight; they seek it out. They are willing participants who support a criminal activity through their paid admission and attendance.

8. What can I do to help stop dogfighting?

If you live in one of the states where dogfighting is still only a misdemeanor, please write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony.

Friday, August 17, 2007

Texas Open 9-Ball Championships

The 34th Annual Texas Open is just around the corner...literally. It's the annual event where some of the greatest players in the country meet up to play. It has two divisions - one of the males and one for the females. If you win the male event, it pays about 10,000 big ones to the winner. Hmmm, a weekend of pool (i'm sure plenty of action) and getting paid 10 G to have fun.

The beauty of the location is it is only 2 blocks from my house, so I know where I'll be hanging out throughout the weekend. It is held at G Cue Billiards, which usually closes down at midnight, will stay open 24 hours that weekend.

I remember hearing through the pool circuit about an amazing feat in 84' that everyone still talks about today. It was the finals, and Bob Vanover was playing Steve Smith. Steve won the coin toss and broke -- Bob Vanover walked up to the table and ran it. The winner then breaks and Bob ran 9 racks in row....yes, for all you APA folks, that's one inning. *bows to Mr. Vanover*

I can't wait!

Monday, August 06, 2007

Bell, Chico & Sting

Yesterday I spent the day with the daughter, Caitlin, of some close friends of mine. I had to write a summary of the day since it was truly one of the best Saturdays on my list of "Great Saturdays". She's one of those bright, witty, talented, hard working teenagers that is going to make a great impact in this world. Just you wait and see.

The day started a little late since I stayed up all night watching movies and didn't get to bed until 5:00am the night before. I woke up around 9:30am and let her know that I would be at her house to pick her up around 11am (which is noon in Jen time). I arrived to her home, picked her up and started the day. The plan was for her to assist me with two of my pet clients this weekend. I can always use help and the company of a bright young girl is always great to have.

We started out the day driving through Mc'Ds. Yes, Mc'Ds. She said she never had a Big Mac before and I gasped! I thought, "well, it's time.", so I ordered a #1 - Big Mac Combo and she did too! We were eating in the car on the way to the client's house and as she finished her meal, I asked, "Ok, on a scale of 1 - 10, how does the Big Mac rank in comparison to other hamburgers?" She said, "I'd give it a 7." That's pretty good for the first time chowing down on a Big Mac. I still couldn't believe this 13 year old girl had never had a Big Mac! I'm going to have to talk to her parents and find out how this is even possible.

We arrived to the first client's house and the cat's loved her - they went right up to her and started purring away! She's great with animals - they really adore her. We proceeded to the 2nd client and same thing, they went right up to her and started purring loudly. So adorable.

We finished the 2 visits and we were passing a house on the corner and it had a For Sale sign in front of it. It caught my eye, so we pulled over and looked in the windows. O MY - it was the cutest house. It was only 400 - 500 square feet, and it is perfect for one person. It had a living area, bedroom, bath and kitchen. Around the side and in the back, it had this gorgeous deep brown wood deck with metal trim around it. It the back, it overlooked a creek and was surrounded by trees for shade - very peaceful.

Sometimes things just catch your eye, and this home definitely did that. It had hardwood floors, a beautiful kitchen with track lighting. The bathroom was small, but again perfect for one person. Even it was gorgeous. That was about it to the house - no den, no laundry room, that's it. But for it be "that's it", It was pretty awesome. I decided to call to see what it was priced at. I assumed 80K. When I called the gentleman was very kind and proceeded to tell me how it was completely remodeled and described the property. After talking about the home, I asked him the price. He said, it's 199,000. *Gasp*. Um, for 400 square feet home? I didn't say that of course, but boy I thought it. I said, thank you and I'll keep that in mind. He told me he would be happy to meet me to show it. I don't think I will meet him *smiles*. For 199,000K - you can build a brand new home + have it completely furnished. But geez, it was cute...

So next on our agenda was to head to another friend's house that was have a BBQ. Mmmmm, more burgers! They just bought their new home together and wanted to test out the BBQ. We decided to stop by Bark and Purr to pick up some treats for their two cats, Earl and Mooch. We picked out 2 balls, 2 bags of treats, 2 collars, and one catnip cigar toy. The gentleman at the counter said, the kitties will go crazy for it. We thought we'd bring dessert since they were providing the burgers and stopped by the local HEB. We got a cake that was this 3 layer chocolate, mousse, cream filling, strawberry topping, fudge topping thing! Perfection. That's what I call it. We arrived and got a tour of the new house - awesome house guys! We gave the kitties their new cigar. They adored it and wouldn't let it go! Too funny. It's drugs for cats!

We munched on some snacks and then tried out the burgers. They were the BEST. Thick burgers, cooked to perfection and the toppings to make it perfect. We were both so stuffed and plopped down on their sofa. It was about 7:30pm by now and next on the agenda was to head a little north to feed horses. She said I could help her. Kinda funny, she helped me with my pet clients and now I was going to help her with her pet client that had 3 horses. Ok, this my sound strange - but I have never been near a horse. Seen them along the side of the road, at the horse track, etc -- but never been more that 15 feet from one.

We got to the property where the horses resided and she explained what we would be doing. She said that we would feed them their dry food, feed them hay, groom them and spray this fly, bug, go away forever, kind of spray. We opened the gate and the three horses, Chico, Bell and Sting came right up. I wasn't sure if they were going to kick me or lick me. The did neither, just wanted to be petted. These three horses were so absolutely gorgeous. They were very intelligent - they knew it was feeding time and went into their individual stalls to get ready for dinner. As they were eating, we loaded the hay into their stalls and groomed them. It was fun brushing them - their coats were so shiny. After that - we sprayed them with the "flies go away" spray. We rinsed our hands off and then headed back to the car.

Next on the agenda was to play a poker tournament back at the BBQ Rocks House! We stopped by to pick up poker chips and headed back to the new home. We gathered around the table and started the tourney. It was almost midnight and three of us were still in it - me, Caitlin and Kristin. Caitlin's curfew was 12:30am, so we weren't able to finish the tourney. We just decided that the top two chip stacks would take the winnings. That was Kristin and Caitlin! She's a solid poker player for being 13 and in another year - she's going to be killer on the table.

I took her back home and thanked her for a great Saturday. As I was driving home I realized that we all get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and rarely take the time to just relax and just take the day as it comes. This was one of those days - nothing set in stone, but the day was filled with great times. I didn't think about work, I didn't answer any work calls, I didn't check my email and I didn't rush anything that day. It was perfect.

Thursday, August 02, 2007

Action Figures! Who knew?

Ultra Jump, the manga serial in which Gunnm (Battle Angel Alita) Last Order is currently running, announced on their website plans to produce a special edition Gunnm Gaiden (”side stories”) manga volume complete with Masaki Apsy-sculpted Gally (Alita) action figure. Price, release date, and preorder availability have not yet been announced *stomps feet*. I'm a huge fan of hers and it's pretty sweet that they are releasing action figures that move. Of course, since I adore her - a badass female cyborg that kicks ass, it's on my must have list. Yesyes, must have.

They are really cute. I can't wait. *smiles*

Wednesday, August 01, 2007

Poker Pup thinking...

This little guy is going all in. Does he want a call?