DFW NewsFlash · DFW NewsFlash encourages submission of articles, facts, and photographs pertaining to the people, life, business, and entertainment of the DFW Airport and the surrounding

Drivers of gasoline-powered taxis say they feel shut outBy Mary Harp Shankles

The Dallas/Fort Worth Air-port Board approved an “incen-tive program” on Jan. 5 that gives top positioning to taxi drivers of CNG fueled taxis to pick up passengers. Taxicabs using com-pressed natural gas, CNG, ad-vance to the front of the taxi line, where the passengers can see

them first.Independent taxicab drivers

and owners are concerned that the new policy will drive them out of business.

“We do not know why they want to hurt our business for other taxi companies,” said Kayse Noor, owner and driver of a gaso-line-powered taxi. “A month ago, if I had known DFW Airport was going to require CNG, I would have bought a different taxi. I did not know and now I have spent

DFW NewsFlashFREEServing the DFW Airport and the surrounding areas

Airport Permit No. 239084

January 18-24, 2012

By Mary Harp ShanklesGrapevine Convention and

Visitors Bureau hosted the Ameri-can Bus Association’s (ABA) an-nual marketplace convention at the Gaylord Texan.

The convention was welcomed to Texas with a stage production that was second to none as Grape-vine’s Mayor William Tate shared homespun wisdom, history, legend

and Texas’ cowboy philosophy.The opening highlights included

folk dancing and a performance by the cast of Texas. The ceremony closed with a lone horse and rider proudly carrying the American flag.

Paul McCallum, Executive Di-rector of Grapevine’s Convention and Visitors Bureau explained that the ABA Marketplace will con-tribute an estimated $3 million to

Grapevine’s hospitality industry. According to the ABA, each char-tered motorcoach generates ap-proximately $10,000 of economic activity per day.

“The ABA Marketplace was held in Grapevine in 2007 and significantly impacted the area’s economy,” McCallum said. “So this time, we hope that we have given them more for their money and

time. “This is a tremendous oppor-

tunity to showcase Grapevine to group travel professionals who di-rectly impact the economic viability of Grapevine’s tourism and hos-pitality industry. By having these professionals in our city during Marketplace, they become familiar with our destination, and we want Grapevine to come to mind first

when they are planning group trav-el and tourism.”

“We have worked hard to have the ABA Marketplace convention held here,” said Heather Kisabeth, Director of Tourism Sales for the City of Grapevine. “The commu-nity and our merchants want the visitors, guests and exhibitors to en-joy the convention and experience

ABA Marketplace attracts a world of travel, tourism professionals

See MARKETPLACE on Page 8

Airport policy change creates incentivesfor CNG-fueled cabs

Please see CNG CABS on Page 8Photo by John Starkey

Any taxis using compressed natural gas can now move to the front of the line at DFW.

January 18-24, 2012 DFW NEWSFLASHPage 2 972-870-1992 www.dfwnewsflash.com

On Christmas Day, 1941, Adm. Nimitz was given a boat tour of the destruction wrought on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese.

Big sunken battleships and navy vessels clut-tered the waters everywhere you looked. As the tour boat returned to dock, the young helmsman of the boat asked, “Well Admiral, what do you think after seeing all this destruction?”

Admiral Nimitz’s reply shocked everyone within the sound of his voice.

Admiral Nimitz said, “The Japanese made three of the biggest mistakes an attack force could ever make, or God was tak-ing care of America. Which do you think it was?”

Shocked and surprised, the young helmsman asked, “What do mean by saying the Japanese made the three biggest mistakes an attack force ever made?”

Nimitz explained: Mistake number one: the Japanese attacked on

Sunday morning. Nine out of every ten crewmen of those ships were ashore on leave. If those same ships had been lured to sea and been sunk--we would have lost 38,000 men instead of 3,800.

Mistake number two: when the Japanese saw all

those battleships lined in a row, they got so carried away sinking those battleships, they never once bombed our dry docks opposite those ships.

If they had destroyed our dry docks, we would have had to tow every one of those ships to America to be repaired. As it is now, the ships are in shallow water and can be raised. One tug can pull them over to the dry docks, and we can have them repaired and at sea by the time we could have towed them to America.

And I already have crews ashore anxious to man those ships.

Mistake number three: Every drop of fuel in the Pacific theater of war is on top of the ground in storage tanks five miles away over that hill.

One attack plane could have strafed those tanks and destroyed our fuel supply.

That’s why I say the Japanese made three of the biggest mistakes an attack force could make, or God was taking care of America.

In jest, I might suggest that because Admiral Nimitz was a Texan, born and raised in Fredricks-burg, TX -- he was a born optimist.

But anyway you look at it--Admiral Nimitz was able to see a silver lining in a situation and circumstance where everyone else saw only despair and defeatism.

Take care of yourselves, and “I’ll see you in the terminals!”

For more information, visit www.dfwchapel.org.

BiShop “DD” hAyeS

Chapel News

Finding the silver lining

CentreportJust minutes from DFW

International Airport!

14301 Centre Station DriveForth Worth, Texas 76155

817-267-5900www.centreportlake.com

Lake

COMMUNITY FEATURES* AT&T U-verse* Accepts Credit Card Payments* Accepts Electronic Payments* Business Center* Emergency Maintenance* Extra Storage* Garage* Gated Access* Green Community* Wireless Internet Access* 2 Resort-Style Pools with Sunning Ledges* Lush Landscaping including Waterfall Features* Jogging Trail* Clubhouse with Billiards Table* Pet Park* Fully Equipped Fitness Center

Luxury LivingGreat Location

Centreport

Only 4 advertising opportunities left!o un

Call your DFW News Flash

sales representative today

to reserve your Valentine ad space or email us at

[email protected]

Call your Irving Rambler

sales representative today

to reserve your Valentine ad space or email us at

[email protected]

“Contact your DFW News Flash Rep or

contact us at

[email protected] “

American Eagle Airlines, the re-gional affiliate of American Airlines, is replacing all of its ATR turboprop aircraft operating from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Four-teen markets throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas will have all-jet service begin-ning Jan. 31. The airline will operate the daily flights with a combination of 37-, 44- and 50-seat jets.

“We are pleased to once again provide jet service to all Eagle des-tinations from our hub in Dallas/Fort Worth,” said Gary Foss, Man-aging Director – Network Planning for American’s regional network. “We know our customers will enjoy the comfortable, quiet ride of these Embraer jets, enhancing their overall travel experience.”

Source: American Eagle Airlines

Regional jets replace turboprops in 14 markets

January 18-24, 2012DFW NEWSFLASHwww.dfwnewsflash.com 972-870-1992 Page 3

DFW NewsFlash

Member of The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce — DFW NewsFlash is Copyrighted 2012

DirectorStacey Starkey — 214-675-9920

PublisherJohn Starkey — 214-675-6493

Circulation ManagerTammy Pompa — 214-676-1145

Sales ManagerJeana Aguirre — 817-454-4050

Sales Representatives

The entire contents of this newspaper are the sole property of The Irving Rambler, Inc., with all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. If you have an upcoming event, game scores, a press release, or interesting story, please let us know. DFW NewsFlash encourages submission of articles, facts, and photographs pertaining to the people, life, business, and entertainment of the DFW Airport and the surrounding area.

DFW NewsFlash is published weekly by Irving Ram-bler, Inc. and is distributed throughout the DFW Airport in businesses and public areas. Deadline for the submission of articles and advertis-ing is noon Friday, a week prior to the publication date. All submitted articles are subject to editing. Opinions expressed in submitted advertisements, articles, editorial, or com-mentary are those of the writer, and not necessarily those of DFW NewsFlash, the publisher, editor, or any staff member. All articles, press releases, photographs and other materials

submitted become the property of Irving Rambler, Inc. The Publication of columnists’ views, as well as adver-tising, does not constitute endorsement. The Irving Rambler reserves the right to reject or edit any advertising. DFW NewsFlash, its publisher, and editor are not responsible for errors in advertising. Mailed subscriptions of DFW NewsFlash are $45 per year. Postage prices paid at Irving, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Irving Rambler, P.O. Box 177731, Irving, TX 75017.

(972) 870-1992 www.dfwnewsflash.com

Advertising: [email protected] Newsroom: [email protected]

$69* D.I.V.O.R.C.E

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ● DWI / Suspended License ● All Warrants ● 24 Hour Jail Release ● Occupational License ● Protective Order ● Misdemeanor / Felony Cases

FAMILY LAW ● Divorce / Annulment ● Child Support / Paternity ● Custody Modification ● Restraining Order ● Protective Order ● Name Change / Adoption ● Domestic Violence

Easy Payment Plans Law Offices of Vincent Ndukwe 2730 N. Stemmons Frwy #409, Dallas 75207

214-638-5930

Open Saturdays and Sundays

1420 N. Cooper St., #112 Arlington, TX 76010

817-277-0196

866-446-1400

*Fees quoted above are minimum down payment needed to begin processing your case, if you qualify. Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Juvenile Cases Child Protective

Services/CPS

Se Habla Espanol

Margaret Lopez Karlene Swaynie Bob Toler

n public intoxication: 1/7/12 at 5:25 p.m. DFW Airport Police were on foot patrol at terminal D, near checkpoint D16 on the secure side of the airport. A person from Pizza Vino reported two males were fighting upstairs. Officers arrived on scene and after further investigation a male was arrested for Public Intoxication.n outstanding Warrants: 1/12/11 at 10:30 p.m. Officers responded to 1800 West 19th at the West Freight AOA Gate to attempt to serve a DFW Warrant. While there, the individual in question arrived, was identified, and was placed under arrest for DFW Warrant (Theft, Bond: $500). The individual was handcuffed, searched and transported to Station One Jail for booking procedures.n outstanding Warrants: 1/13/12 at 10:29 p.m. Officers observed an eastbound vehicle on south airfield with no operational license plate light. A traffic stop was initiated and the driver was cited for no driving license. The driver was subsequently arrested for the following Grand Prairie Police Department Warrants: Speeding ($295), No Operator License ($305) and Failure to maintain financial responsibility ($435).n outstanding Warrants: 1/14/12 at 12:25 a.m. Officers observed a northbound vehicle on West Airfield turn onto West 21st with an expired registration (October 2010). A traffic stop was initiated and the driver was cited for driving while license invalid, expired registration and failure to maintain financial responsibility. The driver was subsequently arrested for the following Fort Worth Police Department Warrant: No Seat Belt ($250.90).

n D.U.i. Minor & possession of Marijuana: 1/14/12 at 2:21 a.m. An officer observed a vehicle speeding. A traffic stop was conducted and during the course of investigation it was determined the driver was less than 21 years of age and had consumed alcohol. During a vehicle search, marijuana was discovered. The driver was arrested for Possession of Marijuana (less than 2 ounces) and DUI Minor.n public intoxication: 1/14/12 at 5:25 p.m. DFW Airport Police responded to Terminal D, Fuddruckers, near checkpoint 16 on an intoxicated person. Upon further investigation a male was arrested for Public Intoxication.n D.W.i.: 1/15/12 at 1:55 a.m. A DFW officer observed a red Mazda drive over the u-turn median and fail to signal a lane change at the 4300 block of South International Parkway. The officer performed a traffic stop on the vehicle at that location. The driver was investigated and arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. The vehicle was impounded by Pro Tow wrecker service.n outstanding Warrant: 1/15/12 at 6:13 p.m. DFW Airport Police officers responded to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) secondary screening area at Terminal D. ICE was detaining an individual on a warrant issued in Tarrant County for probation violation. The individual was positively identified as the subject of the warrant and warrant was confirmed as valid. The warrant indicated “Hold - No Bond, do not release per judge.” The individual was taken into custody and transported to DFW DPS Station 1 to be held pending transfer to Tarrant County authorities.

POLICE REPORT

120 S. Main Street, Grapevine, TX 76051

817-329-3117

www.TheTapIn.com


817-329-3117

www.TheTapIn.com

COUPON SPECIALBuy One Lunch

OR Dinner Entrée

Get One FREE!Expires: Jan. 31, 2012

COUPON SPECIALBuy One Lunch

OR Dinner Entrée



817-329-3117 www.TheTapIn.com

COUPON SPECIALBuy One Lunch OR Dinner Entrée


United Continental Holdings, Inc. Jan. 9 announced that the United Master Executive Coun-cil (MEC) of the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) informed UAL that the MEC has approved a tentative agreement between AFA and UAL for a flight attendants’ contract and is recommending the tentative agreement to United flight attendants for their consider-ation and ratification.

The agreement is the result of an expedited mediation process that began last September, modeled on the National Mediation Board’s Expedited Mediation Program. The agreement provides for numerous improvements, including increased wages and a signing bonus for United flight attendants.

“I am pleased that we were able to reach this agreement following an intense mediation process. We

appreciate the hard work of both negotiating teams in reaching an agreement that is fair to United flight attendants and fair to the company, and recognizes the great work by our flight attendants,” said Sam Risoli, senior vice president of inflight services for United. “We look forward to the ratification of this agreement, which will be promptly followed by negotiations for a joint agreement that will fully

integrate all of our flight attendants under a single contract.”

The tentative agreement covers more than 15,000 flight attendants at the company’s United Airlines subsidiary located throughout the United States and several interna-tional bases and is subject to ratifica-tion by United Airlines flight atten-dants. Continental flight attendants ratified their collective bargaining agreement in February 2011.

“We want to thank the National Mediation Board for their assis-

tance during the negotiations. We particularly wish to thank Senior Mediator Patricia Sims for her piv-otal role in assisting the parties to reach a successful conclusion to this expedited mediation,” said Mike Bonds, executive vice president of human resources and labor rela-tions for United.

The AFA represents more than 24,000 flight attendants at the company’s United and Continental subsidiaries.Source: United Continental Holdings Inc.

United Airlines, flight attendants reach tentative agreement


Ted Machi1-817-335-8880

www.debtdrs.comIn

yourcorner

BANKRUPTCYChapter 7/Chapter 13· Lawsuits· Garnishments· Credit Cards· Wrongful ForeclosureMortgage Modification

PERSONAL INJURY· Distracted Driving Wrecks· Drunk Driver Accidents· Texting While Driving· Dog Bites· Premises Liability· Workplace Injury

FIRST VISIT FREE34 YEARS’

EXPERIENCE!

34 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE!

NO FEES UNLESS RECOVERY

Phones Answered 24 Hours

817-335-8880www.debtdrs.com

In your corner

34 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE!

BANKRUPTCYChapter 7/Chapter 13

· Lawsuits· Garnishments· Credit Cards

· Wrongful ForeclosureMortgage Modification

PERSONAL INJURY· Distracted Driving Wrecks

· Drunk Driver Accidents· Texting While Driving

· Dog Bites· Premises Liability· Workplace Injury

FIRST VISIT FREE

NO FEES UNLESS RECOVERY

Phones Answered 24 Hours

Ted Machi

ARLINGTON1521 North Cooper,

Ste. 550Arlington, TX 76011

MANSFIELD990 North Walnut Creek,

Ste. 2004Mansfield, TX 76063

HOMES HOMES HOMES$100 DOWN IS BACK

THE HOME JUNCTIONYour Real Estate Connection

Call Donna RossMetro

(817) 467-6662 214-668-7998

New ● Pre-owned ● Foreclosures ● HUD ● VA ● Throughout the Metroplex

EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

CALLNOW!

HOMES HOMES HOMES$100 DOWN IS BACK

THE HOME JUNCTIONYour Real Estate ConnectionCall Donna Ross

Metro (817) 467-6662 214-668-7998


CALL NOW!


FREE LIST OF HOMESAt: www.dfwhomel ist .com, fax or mai l

THE HOME JUNCTIONYour Real Estate ConnectionCall Donna Ross

Metro (817) 467-6662 214-668-7998


CALL NOW!


FREE LIST OF HOMESAt: www.dfwhomel ist .com, fax or mai l

Your Real Estate ConnectionCall Donna Ross

Metro (817) 467-6662214-668-7998



CALLNOW!

THE HOME JUNCTION

Business travel finishes 2011 with stronger growth than expected, and the industry will see steady ex-pansion in 2012 that is greater than anticipated GDP growth, according to the latest Business Travel Quar-terly Outlook – United States from the Global Business Travel Asso-ciation (GBTA), sponsored by Visa. Despite the uncertainties in the global economy, the business travel environment will remain healthy.

2011 closes with what turned out to be a stronger year than expected for business travel. Person-Trip vol-

ume is up 3.1 percent in 2011 Q3 while total business travel spending is up 8.3 percent for the quarter. Total Person-Trip volume will hit 446.5 million and total spending on business travel will reach $251.9 billion in 2011, up 2.1 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively.

2012 will continue to see more measured growth as economic headwinds persist. GBTA forecasts that business travel spend will in-crease by 4.6 percent in 2012 on a slight (0.8 percent) decline in per-son-trips.

“Although the economic re-covery is still modest, we see busi-ness travel remaining healthy and growing at a steady rate that out-paces GDP growth,” said Michael W. McCormick, GBTA executive director and COO. “We’d like to see these record corporate profits trickle down through the rest of the economy, but as the European economy teeters on the brink, cor-porations remain cautious. But be-cause business travel drives corpo-rate growth, we should expect road warriors to remain busy in 2012.”

GBTA predicts U.S. business travel price inflation to be 2.2 per-cent in 2012, compared to price inflation of 4.3 percent for 2011. Lower levels of travel demand and lower fuel prices will be the leading causes of this improvement.

internAtionAl DelAyS expecteD

International outbound business travel is expected to remain stron-ger than domestic travel; however, it will face new challenges in 2012. Challenges in the Eurozone will continue to plague the global econ-omy for the foreseeable future. Ad-ditionally, there are some struggles in the developing world as many high-growth economies that have experienced strong growth over the last few years face their own chal-lenges in 2012.

The number of total U.S. initi-ated international business trips is expected to hit 6.8 million in 2011, a 3.2 percent increase over 2010,

followed by 2.4 percent growth in 2012.

“For the last few quarters, in-ternational travel has been a bright spot in business travel, due to the higher cost of travel and the steady growth in the number of trips,” McCormick said. “However, it looks like the pressure building in growing economies will cause slow-er but steady growth in 2012. Road warriors should still expect to be traveling, especially as the business climate remains uneven. ”

GroUp trAvel SpenD DipS

Group travel had a very strong 2011. Spending on group business travel is projected to finish up 7.6 percent year-over-year. However, in 2012, group travel spending will be hard-pressed to repeat that perfor-mance. Growth is expected to fall back to only 4.2 percent, a signifi-cant drop from the Q3 prediction. Source: Global Business Travel Association

As the United States slowly recovers from the Great Recession, it needs to focus not just on creating more jobs but on more high-quality jobs and providing workers with the skills necessary to perform those jobs, according to an article in the Winter Issues in Science and Technology.

Because too many U.S. workers lack the education and skills required for high-paying jobs, employers of-ten choose to compete based only on low costs rather than on better worker performance, writes Harry Hol-zer of Georgetown University. He argues that the fed-eral government should make it easier for employers to create and fill good jobs with highly productive workers.

“To do so,” Holzer writes, “it needs to create and fund more-coherent and more-effective education and workforce-development systems. These systems should place their primary emphasis on providing more assis-

tance to at-risk youth, both in school and out, and also to adult workers who are disadvantaged. Furthermore, these programs should take advantage of the latest evi-dence on effective training to maximize their impact.”

Also in the Winter Issues in Science and Technol-ogy, Stephen Ezell of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation in Washington, DC, outlines a strategy for revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. Key to a reversal, he writes, will be greatly expanded government efforts to support the competitiveness of small- and medium-sized (SME) firms.

Other industrialized countries, Ezell writes, have recognized that because SME manufacturers account for more than 98% of manufacturing firms in almost all economies, they form the backbone of a nation’s indus-trial supply chain.

Source: Issues in Science and Technology

Business travel beats expectations for 2011

More help needed to prepare workers


www.grapevineaudiology.comwww.facebook.com/GrapevineAudiology

Twitter: HTG_Audiology

2200 Pool Road #102Grapevine, TX 76051

817-488-1637

Tara Wheeler, Au.D.Audiologist

WORK IS OUR WORKYour Headquarters for Men's Safety and Soft-Toe

Work Shoes and Boots . . . Many Styles to Choose From

15% OFFWITH THIS AD.

RED WING BRAND ONLY.

DFW Area Companies, Ask About Our Commercial Shoe Programs!!

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!!! IRVING ON BELT LINE

2542 N. Beltline

972-252-6626

NRH ON PRECINCT 6305 Precinct Line #200

817-428-8200

ARLINGTON ON COOPER 3115 S. Cooper #120

817-468-8171

“Prepare to lift! Lift!”U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Timothy Talbert shouted

these commands to fellow medics who then lifted the Critical Care Air Transport Team patient from the am-bulance to the C-130 Hercules, because they under-stood that time was a factor in saving the patient’s life.

Talbert, a flight nurse, is part of the 455th Expedi-tionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight team on Ba-gram Air Field, whose mission is to care for and trans-port patients from one location to another to get them further medical care.

“Our primary mission is to transport patients any-where in theater,” said Talbert, a native of Richmond, VA. “We move injured and wounded patients whether they are soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines or contrac-tors. There isn’t a patient we can’t transport.”

The 455th EAEF picks up and treats service mem-bers and civilians with injuries varying from anything as minor as a cough to as severe as multiple amputation or gunshots wounds.

The unit covers all of Afghanistan. They also take patients from Craig Joint Theater Hospital to Land-stuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany for a higher level medical care.

Talbert said they are the medics in-between when referring to the transportation of patients from one lo-cation to the next.

“We are a part of a system,” said Talbert. “We are the intermediate area between point A to point B. The transport is vital for the continuity of care and getting the patient to the next step, which might be the life saving step, the diagnosis that they need, or the treat-ment that they need.”

The mission planning starts upon receiving an aerovac request from the Combined Air Operations Center. The crews of the 455th EAEF have to be air-borne within three hours to include multiple briefings, loading and checking approximately 1,800 pounds of

equipment and converting the cargo area of a C-130, C-17 Globemaster III or a KC-135 Stratotanker into a flying ambulance or hospital.

“Whenever we are alerted, we have an hour to show,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Martha Maddox, native of Chapel Hill, NC, and the Medical Crew Director with the 455th EAEF. “During the next two hours we have to brief, load our equipment and get everything checked so when we get to the aircraft, we are ready to go.”

Maddox said that the crew wants everything ready 30 minutes before takeoff, and wouldn’t be made pos-sible if it wasn’t for a team effort.

“My crew is amazing,” said Maddox. “They know their procedures backwards and forwards and I would fly with anyone of them anywhere, anytime.”

There are four crews in the squadron and each crew is made up of five personnel — two nurses and three air medical evacuation technicians.

One technician, U.S. Air Force Senior Airmen Me-lissa Deardorff, a native to Dumfries, VA, works as the charge on the crew, which details making sure equip-ment is up-to-date as well as doing pre-flight checks.

“As a flight medic, there is a job you do before you do your medic part,” said Deardorff. “I also have to del-egate out jobs such as who does the oxygen, electrical, straps and who loads the patients.” Even though the each person of the crew has a specific job, it’s impor-tant for each crew member to know each other’s job, Deardorff added. “We have to work like a well oiled machine.”

The crew has experienced a great sense of satisfac-tion transporting and caring for about 160 patients during the time in theater.

“It’s something that is hard to describe,” said Dear-dorff..“… but there is no greater feeling than to take care of one of your own and get them the help they need.”

Source: Defense Video & Imagery Distribution System

American Airlines Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that it paid a $10 million dividend to qualifying member-owners on Dec. 31. The Board of Directors approved the dividend payout at its board meeting Dec. 16.

The active participation of both borrowers and savers contributed to a successful year for the Credit Union. The bonus dividend was based on dividends earned on qualifying share accounts and/or interest paid on applicable loans. The savings portion of the dividend was calculated on share dividends earned through Nov. 30, and the additional portion of the bonus dividend amount was calculated on loan interest paid from Jan. 1 through Nov. 30.

“Our ability to provide our

member-owners once again with this bonus dividend is a testament to the sound lending decisions and efficient operation that have kept us secure, strong and solid,” said Angie Owens, AA Credit Union President and CEO. “And we’re al-ways happy to provide a bonus to our most loyal members who have multiple products with us.”

AA Credit Union returns its val-ue to its member-owners. This bo-nus is paid above regular dividends, in addition to lower loan rates and higher dividends member-owners already enjoy. To recognize the most active and loyal members, an additional $50bonus was distrib-uted to those who participated in three or more of the eight major ac-count categories.

Source: AA Federal Credit Union

AA Credit Union distributes $10 million dividend

Medic crew provides lifesaving transportation

Photo by Spc. Cody BarberU.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Timothy Talbert, a flight nurse with the 455th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight, watches over a patient while the critical care air transport team works to keep the patient alive on a C-130.


To request a confidential, no-obligationappointment by phone or in person, call (800) 533-003, Ext . 4361

AA Credit Union is a registered trademark of American Airlines, Inc.

Let us help you become financially fit forthe New Year!

Not a debt-management program.

Get back on financial track by taking advantage of the free services Credit Education offers to AA Credit Union member-owners.

Our Credit Education Counselors may help you:

• Reduce debt • Improve your credit score • Create a monthly spending plan

Working together, we can find a better, easier way to avoid financial difficulties and become debt-free.

Your CreditEducationstarts here.

An article released Jan. 10 in PLoS ONE entitled, Zoonotic Viruses Associated with Illegally Imported Wildlife Products, from a collaborative study led by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), identified evi-dence of retroviruses and herpesvi-ruses in illegally imported wildlife products confiscated at several U.S. international airports, including John F. Kennedy International Air-port, George Bush Intercontinen-tal-Houston and Atlanta Harts-field-Jackson International.

The pilot program was initiated to establish surveillance and testing methods to uncover the potential public health risks from illegally imported wildlife products coming into the United States. The prelimi-nary results of the program clearly demonstrate the potential human health risk from the illegal wildlife trade at major international travel hubs as a pathway to disease emer-gence in animals and humans.

Lead author and Associate Di-rector for Health and Policy at EcoHealth Alliance, Dr. Kristine Smith, stated “although the findings to date are from a small pilot study, they remind us of the potential public health risk posed by illegal importation of wildlife products – a risk we hope to better characterize through expanded surveillance at ports of entry around the country.”

“The increase in international travel and trade brings with it an in-creased risk of unmonitored patho-gens via the illegal wildlife trade,” said Dr. Denise McAloose, chief pathologist for the Global Health Program of the Wildlife Conser-vation Society (WCS). The global trade of wildlife has largely con-tributed to the emergence of new diseases in livestock, native wildlife and humans worldwide. Current research shows that 75 percent of emerging infectious diseases affect-ing people originate from contact with wildlife. These wildlife-borne diseases can be transmitted through human-animal interactions inher-ent in the global wildlife trade.

Items confiscated as part of the study included raw to semi-cooked

animal parts, identified by Ameri-can Museum of Natural History’s Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, Columbia University, and WCS as nonhuman primates, including baboon and chimpanzee, and various rodent species using advanced genetic barcoding tech-nologies. Pathogen analysis was conducted at the CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hep-atitis, STD, and TB Prevention and Columbia University’s Center for Infection and Immunity. Among the pathogens identified in the products were a zoonotic retrovirus, simian foamy viruses, and several nonhuman primate herpesviruses. These results are the first to confirm evidence of pathogens in illegally imported bushmeat that may act as a conduit for pathogen spread, and suggest that implementation of dis-ease surveillance of the illegal wild-life trade will help facilitate preven-tion of disease emergence.

“Exotic wildlife pets and bush-

meat are Trojan horses that threat-en humankind at sites where they are collected in the developing world as well as the U.S. Our study underscores the importance of sur-veillance at ports, but we must also encourage efforts to reduce demand for products that drive the wild-life trade,” said W. Ian Lipkin of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. In fact, the U.S. is one of the largest consumers of imported wildlife products and wildlife.

A previous study by EcoHealth Alliance showed that over a six-year period (2000-2006) approxi-mately 1.5 billion live wild animals were legally imported into the U.S. – with 90 percent slated for the pet trade. Programs like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy Pets, Healthy People and EcoHealth Alliance’s PetWatch encourage responsible exotic pet choices and ownership.

Source: EcoHealth Alliance

Study highlights diseases associated with illegally imported wildlife


The world’s airlines have sched-uled 2.883 percent more capacity on 1.86 percent more flights in January 2012, marking the eighth consecu-tive month of growth compared to the same period last year, according to the latest statistics from OAG, a UBM Aviation brand. The OAG FACTS (Frequency and Capacity Trend Statistics) report for January 2012 reveals that average seats per flight in January total 126, com-pared to 125 a year ago, in a con-tinued trend of airlines deploying Next Generation aircrafts such as A380s, B777-300ERs or B737-800s, especially in slot-constrained airports.

Continued growth in Asia Pa-cific, Middle East and Latin Amer-ica Markets

Regionally, the gap between the Asia Pacific and North America intra-region markets has further widened, with Asia Pacific now recording 39 percent more intra-region seat capacity compared to North America. Schedule fre-quency and seat capacity to/from Asia Pacific increased by 7.29 per-cent and 6.29 percent respectively against the same period last year. Also noteworthy is the internation-al seat capacity to/from Japan has been restored to pre- Earthquake / Tsunami level. ‘Within Central and South America’ was the only region to record double digit year-over-year growth in both schedule frequency and seat capacity, and the Middle East region grew schedule frequency and seat capacity 9.08 percent and 9.24 percent respec-tively.

Africa, Europe, North America post declines

On the other end, political in-stability in Africa contributed to the industry’s worst declines, with ‘To-From Africa’ shedding sched-ule frequency by 6.58 percent and seat capacity by 5.69 percent. Eu-rope again recorded below-par per-formance, with both inter-region and intra-region schedule frequen-cy and seat capacity development performing below the worldwide average; frequency within Europe declined by 2.11 percent, while fre-quency ‘To/From Europe’ declined 0.57 percent. Seat capacity within Europe decreased 1.09 percent

but seat capacity ‘To/From Eu-rope’ increased marginally by 0.18 percent, possibly due to the bigger aircraft operated by medium- and long-haul carriers from outside the Europe region. The Intra-North America market continued to de-cline after a marginal rebound in January 2011, with schedule fre-quency and seat capacity decreas-ing 3.16 percent and 2.73 percent respectively, compared to the cor-responding period last year.

“Asia Pacific continues its re-markable growth, and the full re-covery in Japan is evidence of the market’s strength and a wonderful way to begin 2012. However, the Asia Pacific aviation market faces challenges to maintaining growth due to highly constrained airports in some major hubs, namely Bei-jing, which is poised to overtake Atlanta as the world’s largest air-port this year,” said John Grant, Executive Vice President, UBM Aviation.

Beijing, Bangkok and Dubai dominate growth among major hub airports

Atlanta remained the largest airport in the world by both sched-ule frequency and seat capacity,

although schedule frequency de-clined by 3.17 percent while seat capacity shed 1.51 percent com-pared to the same period last year.

In seat capacity terms, Beijing has cemented its position as the second largest seat capacity provider in the world, with 8,449,273 seats offered, a remarkable 4.06 percent growth over the corresponding period last year. Beijing is also pulling away from its nearest competitor Lon-don Heathrow, almost doubling its seat capacity variance from 323,690 seats last year to 612,732 seats this year. Beijing is also quickly catch-ing up on schedule frequency, with 2.67 percent year-over-year growth, the second strongest annual growth rate behind Los Angeles. PEK and LAX are the only two airports that recorded growth in schedule fre-quency within the top 10 airports globally. In seat capacity terms, Bangkok overtook Hong Kong as the 6th largest seat capacity pro-vider with 14.44 percent year-over-year growth to 6,329,628 seats, and similarly, Dubai overtook Los An-geles for the 8thposition with 12.26 percent year-over-year growth to 6,245,461 seats.

Source: UBM Aviation

* Annual Percentage Rate. Your APR may vary and is based upon creditworthiness. Contact the Credit Union for your qualifying rate. The Visa Platinum Rewards current variable APR for purchases, balance transfers and cash advances ranges from 8.50% to 14.24%. If you default under your card agreement with us, we may automatically increase to the fixed Default APR which equals 18.00%. The rate for purchases, cash advances and balance transfers is determined quarterly by adding between 5.25% and 10.99% to the Prime Rate and is capped at 18.00%. Annual Fee: $0 – Balance Transfer Fee: $0 – Cash Advance Fee: $2.00 – Minimum finance charge: $0.50 except where prohibited by law. Foreign Transaction Fee: 1.00% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.

Connection Points are powered by CURewards.®

AA Credit Union is a registered trademark of American Airlines, Inc.

Online: AACreditUnion.org

Visit: A branch near you

Call: (800) 533-0035

Consolidate and SAVE Transfer your high interest balances to one of our LOW interest credit cards

Start your New Year carrying a TRUE Value Card! Consolidate and save on your holiday expenses when you transfer your high interest rate department store card balances to one of our lower rate cards that offers no balance transfer fees. Plus enjoy:

✓Rates as low as 7.00% APR*

✓NO Annual Fee

✓NO Balance Transfer Fees

✓Connection Points Rewards Option

✓And More Platinum Benefits

Get Your Card Today!

ONE BEDROOM FULL SIZE APARTMENTSALL NEW FURNITURE

CorporateSuites From$199 Weekly

AIRLINE DISCOUNTS● New Granite Countertops● Lancewood Flooring● All Bills Paid● 25” Color TVs● 40” Flat Screen TV Available● Ceiling Fans● Deadbolts

● No Pets● No Lease/No Deposit● One Bedroom Apartments● Free Extended Basic Cable● Frost-Free Refrigerators● Walk-In Closets● Swimming Pool

Oakwood Crest231 Martha Street ● Euless

817-267-2481 Toll Free 1-866-495-2059

183 (Airport Frwy.)

Hwy. 10

Alexander

Main

Martha

Airline capacity grows for 8th month


The Creek on Park Place Apartment Homes2001 Park Place Blvd., Bedford, Texas 76021

Tel. 817-267-3512 www.creekonparkplace.com

Up & Coming✦ Business Center✦ Outdoor Poolside Kitchen✦ Dog Park✦ Poolside Deck & Pergola✦ 24-Hour Fitness Facility✦ Pergola Covered Picnic Areas✦ Courtesy Officer Current✦ Newly Landscaped Property✦ Newly Renovated Pool✦ Two Convenient 24 Hour Laundry Facilities✦ Beautifully Wooded Surroundings✦ Barbecue Grills✦ 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance

Interior Amenities:✦ One & Two Bedroom Floor Plans✦ One & Two Bedroom Townhomes✦ Black Appliances✦ Wood Burning Fireplaces✦ Two-Inch Wood Blinds✦ Full Size Washer Dryer Connections*✦ Brushed Nickel Fixtures✦ Faux Wood Floors✦ Faux Granite Countertops✦ Walk-In Closets✦ Ceiling Fans✦ Built-In Bookcases

The Creek on Park Place portrays a canopy of comfort in a one and two bedroom apartment and townhome community. A creek side setting offers seclusion from the city life, but is also located within minutes of fine dining, shopping, education facilities, HEB Hospital and DFW Airport.

$300 OFFFIRST FULL MONTHS’

RENT!

1501 Tennis Dr.Bedford, TX 76022817-268-1357 fax: [email protected]

COMMUNITY AMENITIES■ 2 Sparkling Pools■ 2 Tennis Courts■ Gazebo with Barbeque Grills and Picnic Area■ Monthly Resident Events■ 24 Hour Professional Emergency Maintenance■ Pet Friendly Community■ Mature Landscaping■ Outside Storage■ Community Fitness Membership at Stroud’s Fitness

APARTMENTAMENITIES■ Faux granite look countertops■ Wood plank flooring■ Brushed nickel accessories■ Extra Storage■ Walk-in Closets■ Pantry■ Mini Blinds■ Disposals■ Wall-to-wall Carpeting■ Patio Balcony■ Dishwasher■ Frost-free Refrigerator

DFW airport employee discount of ½ off the deposit

NEWLY RENOVATED APARTMENT HOMES

Free gym membership upon move-in

more around town. The itinerary is filled with community attractions. Our goal is to provide outstanding customer service. We appreciate the motorcoach business and ABA.”

Dan Ronan, ABA’s Senior Direc-tor of Communications, explained the importance of the ABA Mar-ketplace to the motorcoach industry.

“Most people do not realize that the motorcoach industry supports nearly 800,000 tourism jobs in the U.S.

“We offer educational semi-nars focusing on fuels, technology, women in buses, and a Bus Indus-try Safety Council-led crisis man-agement seminar,” he said. “Certain topics bring them up to date with the EPA rules and how those will affect engines starting with the 2012 model year.

“The Marketplace gives every-one equal footing to learn what they need to know and use that knowl-edge for making the best business decisions they can. Exhibits include the latest in technology, and of course there are apps for the smart

phones, as well as information on how to bring business to and from world-wide destinations.

“Our members, bus operators and bus lines, have the highest rat-ing in the industry. We do not allow less than satisfactory rated compa-nies or operators to be members. Our reputation and growth empha-sis is on safety. Being safety con-scious is being customer friendly. Safety is a proven foundation for the American Bus Association and its future.”

Visitors to the ABA Market-place found much to admire about the opportunity – and the state.

“The ABA Marketplace is so much fun,” said Bob Ciccone, Complex Sales Manager at Shera-ton Reston Hotel in Washington D.C. “Not just that, but it has al-ways been a great business opportu-nity for us, and now we get to know more about Texas at this year’s event.

“My wife and I attend the ABA Marketplace to connect with deci-sion makers of tour companies, and bus lines. We need to be knowl-edgeable about the latest technol-ogy, amenities, what sells, and what customers want.

“We love the exposure we re-ceive. We are able to meet so many businesses in the industry and all across the states. We will definitely be back, this is all about business.”

“Attending ABA’s Marketplace has turned out to be a great deci-sion for Tourism/Canada,” said Dene’ Sinclair, Travel Trade Man-ager, USA & Canada. “This format allows us to have concentrated time with the tourism industry in North American. The bus operators, latest technology and even the service pro-viders are at the ABA Marketplace.

“The exposure is great for our business,” Sinclair continued, ex-plaining that they could see the results from attending in the past. “Again and again, this is the main opportunity for product vendors to showcase their products to the in-dustry.

“Everyone is so friendly here. If I said I needed a bottle of water, they would get me one. It has to be a way of life to be so thoughtful of others.”

“It was a surprise,” said Mark Kuiper of Springhill Suites by Mar-riott, Pigeon Forge, TN. “Wow - was all I could think with so many people coming over to our exhibit. I mean, wow.”

MarketplaceContinued from Page 1

all this money on a car that does not have CNG. “A month ago, I renewed my DFW Airport Taxi

permit to pick-up passengers, and still they did not tell me about this change. This is really hurting us small businessmen who work for ourselves. Only the big companies can afford to make changes or buy equip-ment for conversion, and buy new taxis with CNG equipment. They are the big taxi companies that get the front line position for passengers.

“There is no taxi union here, only an association, but it is weak and not worth the cost to join. Another thing, the CNG taxis are small and the CNG equipment takes up half the space that is used for a passenger’s luggage. If there are three or more passengers together, the CNG taxis do not have room for all of them and their luggage. It’s going to be a mess.

“Many times there are passengers who want to go to cities outside the Metroplex, but the CNG taxi can’t drive very far. The CNG taxi cannot make long drives.

“Now, only 20 to 30 taxis at the airport are CNG; soon there will be a hundred or more. CNG-fueled cars will get many trips each out of the airport each day, because they do not wait their turn in line.”

This is the second time that airport officials have taken action to enforce a policy allowing CNG-fueled taxicabs the exclusive privilege to skip-to-the-head of

the line. The first time was in 2009 but that was stopped by legal challenges from a group of taxicab drivers.

John Bryant, general counsel for the Association of Taxi Operators, said the group may file a lawsuit to try to halt the policy. The drivers estimate it costs about $13,000 to convert a vehicle to operate on CNG.

“The airport board has voted to implement a policy that is unachievable for independent business owners,” said Bryant.

Of the approximately 2,000 taxicabs licensed to op-erate at the airport, about 137 use CNG. By offering an incentive to cab drivers to convert to CNG, the airport hopes to reduce emissions.

“All we’re trying to do is clean the air up,” said David Magaña, Manager of Public Affairs at DFW Airport in a press release. “This policy does not put anybody out of business.”

The airport has had a clean air policy in place since 2000 and has over 600 CNG-fueled buses, trucks and cars in its fleet.

Last September, DFW Airport was praised for its Green Power efforts to reduce its carbon footprint by the EPA.

That ranking, among the top 50, was earned by ef-forts using renewable electricity to help reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, DFW Airport was one of only two airports among the nation’s top pur-chasers of renewable energy, and it ranks at number eight on the list of Top 20 Local Government purchas-ers produced by the EPA.

CNG cabsContinued from Page 1


title: Contraband rated: r

What if I told you there was a new film out about a movie critic who had to get back in the business to help save a fam-

ily member in trouble with a Hollywood rep? Not very intriguing right? That is why the new movie Contra-band uses drug lords and smugglers as its main focus. Not only is it better suited for action, but the premise is a lot more enticing.

Chris Farraday (Mark Wahlberg) has left his life of crime behind. He is now a

legitimate family man running an upright business. When his wife’s brother (Caleb Landry Jones ) gets on the wrong side of a vicious drug lord (Giovanni Ribisi) Chris must do one last job to settle the bill. He grabs a freighter bound for Panama with the hopes of smuggling some counterfeit

bills back into the US. It is not an easy job especially with the pressure being put on his family back home. This makes for a gritty, action packed thrill ride from start to finish.

The premise is familiar and to be hon-est, not that original. The plot line of family first has thrown many a redeemed criminal back in the saddle. This movie reminds me of films like Gone in 60 Sec-onds, which also had Ribisi, and The Ital-ian Job, coincidentally starring Wahlberg. This one is a few rungs better than those mainly due to the solid writing and char-acter portrayal.

Wahlberg is easily able to sell both as-pects of his character. He has a soft, hum-ble nature, but can easily handle himself in a tight spot, with a cold stare and quick fists. Ribisi is menacing as a drug dealer who has no respect for human life. His look and voice are at times soulless and terrifying. Kudos to Ben Foster who plays Farraday’s partner in crime and J.K. Sim-mons as the freighter’s captain. I especial-ly enjoyed Simmons in this role.

Also the writing team keeps you on

your toes with the plot. Even though there are several predictable moments, they are made up for with a few twists and turns that pile on the action and high speed intensity. Each direction adds a new character that gives the story depth and broad appeal. There are also some funny moments that allow you a chance to catch your breath. But then you are slung right back into the thick of things.

The job Chris and his gang have to pull off is intricate. The backdrop of a freighter gives it some fresh ideas. Sure there are hard to believe moments, but those are the ones that are the most fun. These guys do what can’t be done. If it could, where would the magic be? Fans of intense ac-tion and drama will love the gun fights, fist-a-cuffs, and overall story.

Contraband is rated R for violence, pervasive language and brief drug use. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 duct-tape masks. Contraband sets the bar high for the adult action dramas and good luck to others trying to surpass it.

Review copyright 2012 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.

Matt Mungle

MUNGLE ON MOVIES

Classified [email protected]

FOR SALE

The DFW News Flash is looking for a suc-cessful sales-focused person to grow our print advertising sales. We are an eight-

year-old company with two local newspa-pers and a total combined readership of

about 70,000 – and still growing! Both of our newspapers serve niche markets with

plenty of growth potential. The person we are looking for must be able

to contact local businesses both over the phone and in person for the development of new business. This individual must also

provide excellent service to our clients while selling advertising in our weekly

newspapers.

The perfect candidate must have B2B sales experience.

Extensive prior experience with face-to-face cold calling.

The ability to develop creative and effective custom designed

solutions for our customers.Strong communication,

organization and planning skills.

Call (817)454-4050 for an appointment.

FOR SALE or LEASEAll or part of 5700 sqft

On 1½ acre on the SE Corner of D/FW. *Commercial Ware-house Zoning COU-2 Very wide zoning,Abutting D/FW Airport, 2700 sqft

Bld. w/glass entry 2 bath, 2-12’ Overhead doors, another 2000 office+ storage w/2 bath & 10 rooms, w/another 1000 sqft., at 3312/3324 Valley View Lane

Irving, TX 75062Wayne 214-274-2008

CREEK-SITE LOCATION!In Euless, minutes from the

airport. 5 BRM, 2 BATH. This home is nearly 1900 square ft. Ready to move-in, open living

area with real wood burning fireplace, real wood cabinets. Master bath features double

vanity garden tub and separate shower. Appliances are includ-ed, 10X10 storage shed, 2 car parking pad, sprinkler system,

ONLY $43,500!!CALL TODAY! 817-540-2000

REAL ESTATE

Visit Our Other Locations

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 5:30 a.m.-9 p.m.Sat. 5:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

◆ Family Dining ◆

◆ Homestyle Cooking ◆◆ All You Can Eat Food Bar After 5 p.m. ◆

◆ Lite-eaters Selection ◆

BREAKFAST ◆ LUNCH ◆ DINNER

Serving Irving For Over 40 YearsFor Take Out Call

(972) 253-7335425 W. Irving Blvd. at O’Connor

MANSFIELD310 Mitchell Rd.,

Metro (817) 477-3383

WATAUGA5912 Denton Hwy.,

Metro (817) 498-7079IN GOD WE TRUST

Where Irving Meets and Eats

Visit Our Other Locations

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 5:30 a.m.-9 p.m.Sat. 5:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

◆ Family Dining ◆

◆ Homestyle Cooking ◆◆ All You Can Eat Food Bar After 5 p.m. ◆

◆ Lite-eaters Selection ◆

BREAKFAST ◆ LUNCH ◆ DINNER

Serving Irving For Over 40 YearsFor Take Out Call

(972) 253-7335425 W. Irving Blvd. at O’Connor

MANSFIELD310 Mitchell Rd.,

Metro (817) 477-3383

WATAUGA5912 Denton Hwy.,

Metro (817) 498-7079IN GOD WE TRUST

Where Irving Meets and Eats

NOW HIRINGNewspaper carrier

To Deliver the DFW News Flash

@ the DFW airport & it’s surrounding area

PLEASE contact Tammy at 214-676-1145

or e-mail: [email protected]

SELL IT IN A FLASHDFW Newsflash classifieds

U.S. travel agents set record for air ticket sales in 2011

ARC, the financial settlement link between air-lines and travel sellers, reported Jan. 12 that the con-solidated dollar value of airline tickets sold by U.S.-based travel agencies in 2011 increased 6.11 percent year-over-year compared to 2010, and 25 percent over 2009. Last year’s ticket sales totaled a record $82.1 billion, compared to $77.4 billion in 2010, and $65.8 billion in 2009.

Passenger segments in 2011 fell 2.9 percent – at 370.1 million segments, compared to 381.1 million in 2010 – while reflecting a 2.9 percent increase over 2009. Ticket transactions in 2011 were down some-what, at -2.09 percent compared to 2010, while 5.1 percent above 2009.

For December 2011, the consolidated dollar value of airline tickets sold by U.S.-based travel agencies increased 3.9 percent compared to December 2010, and 12.3 percent over the same period in 2009. Total December 2011 ticket sales were $4.9 billion, com-pared to $4.7 billion in 2010, and $4.4 billion in 2009.

December 2011 passenger segments fell 4.6 per-cent – at 28.1 million segments, compared to 29.5 million in December 2010– while reflecting a 2.2 percent decrease over the same period in 2009.

Ticket transactions for December 2011 were down, at -4.5 percent compared to the same period in 2010, while 1.7 percent below the same period in 2009.

Source: ARC

‘Contraband’ raises the bar for action dramas

GARAGE SALESaturday, Jan 21st

10 am to 2 pm2805 Briarcliff Circle

Irving, Tx 75062Refrigerator, washer, gasdryer, couch, dining table,

dresser, king bed (mattress &box springs), ceiling fans,

wood pieces (various sizes),misc items.

*House for sale by owner*Call 817 454 9702


FUN AND GAMES

Even Exchange

Employers share excuses employees give for being late

Cat hiccups, a disgruntled roommate and a governor’s phone call are among this year’s most unusual excuses employ-ees gave for being tardy, according to a new CareerBuilder study.

Sixteen percent of workers reported they arrive late to work once a week or more, up from 15 percent last year. Twen-ty-seven percent of workers arrive late to work at least once a month, up from 26 percent last year. The nationwide survey was conducted between Nov. 9 and Dec. 5 by Harris Interactive among more than 7,000 U.S. workers and 3,000 employers across industries and company sizes.

While employers are more flexible about work schedules and start times today, excessive tardiness can have seri-ous consequences. Over one-third of employers said they have terminated an employee for being late.

“Punctuality – or lack thereof - can impact how your commitment, reliabil-ity and performance are perceived by your employer,” said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of Human Resources at CareerBuilder.

Traffic, sleep schedules and weather conditions are the top three causes for late arrivals to the office, according to workers. Other common reasons in-cluded public transportation delays, pets, spouses, TV and Internet usage.

When asked for examples of the most outrageous excuses, hiring manag-ers shared the following:

Employee’s cat had the hiccups.Employee thought she had won the

lottery (she didn’t).Employee got distracted watching

the TODAY Show.Employee’s angry roommate cut the

cord to his phone charger, so it didn’t charge and his alarm didn’t go off.

Employee believed his commute time should count toward his work hours.

Employee said a fox stole her car keys.Employee’s leg was trapped between

the subway car and the platform (true).Employee said he wasn’t late because

he had no intention of getting to work before 9 a.m. (his start time was 8 a.m.)

Employee was late because of a job interview with another firm.

Employee had to take a personal call from the state governor (turned out to be true).

Source: CareerBuilder


FUN AND GAMES

Put a Paw print in your heartand a best friend at home!The precious pets at the DFW Humane Society would like to bring a lifetime of love and happiness into your home!!

4140 Valley View Ln.Irving, Texas 75038

972-721-7788www.dfwhumane.com

OPEN:Tuesday - Friday

11am-6pmSaturday 10am – 5pm

Come adopt a new family member today!If you can’t adopt, please donate!

My name, Kochka, is a Hawaiian name meaning peaceful and quiet. I am both of these things, but since I am a kitten I also have a lot of energy to play. I am a 6-month-old, neutered male. I was abandoned at a vet’s a couple of weeks ago. Please come by and say Aloha!

My name is Harley, and I’m a sweet, loving, gentle girl. I had a family, but they moved and didn't take me with them. I was housebroken when I came to the shelter, so I should be easy to train at your house, and I love being around children and other pets. Could your home be the perfect home for me?


10920 Harston Woods Dr.Euless TX 76040

817-540-2000www.harstonwoods.com

Financing Available! Se Habla Español. No application fees!

Harston Woods is ideally located on Trinity Blvd directly between Dallas and Fort Worth, only minutes from:

30

Trinity Blvd.

Hurst Blvd.

Pipeline

Colli

ns

Euless Blvd.360

183

820

Indu

stria

l

Brow

n Tr

ail


❖ DFW Airport ❖ Six Flags Over Texas❖ Cowboys Stadium❖ Hurricane Harbor ❖ Rangers Baseball❖ UT Arlington

❖ Clubhouse❖ Playground❖ Picnic Area❖ Pet Friendly

Visit Harston Woods today to choose between beautiful 3 and 4 bedroom manufactured homes and learn more about your financing options.

At Harston Woods you will find serenity surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds and a creek-like setting. Our residents enjoy resort style amenities including:

❖ H.E.B. Exemplary Schools❖ Customer Focused Staff❖ State of the Art Fitness Center❖ Sparkling Pool❖ Homes Include 10x10 Storage Shed and Appliances

3 BEDROOM HOMES Up to 1700 sq. ft.

4 BEDROOM HOMESUp to 2000 sq. ft.

Home & Site Payment �om $825/mo.*

Great Person? Great Job? Credit Blemishes? IS THAT YOU? Give Us A Call!

OWN

License #MHDRET00036197. Offers available for applications dates between 1/1/2012 - 1/31/2012 and with approved credit. Financing terms 10% down payment, 7.5% int. rate, 15 yr. loan. Home must be purchased from KCWS Homes LLC and close by 2/15/2012. RMLO Number 309597. 9606 N, Mopac Express Way, Suite 500, Austin TX 78759. Please see sales rep for details.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

HOME OF THE WEEK!PERFECT FAMILY HOME! New 4 bedroom 2 bath home offers almost 1600 sq ft, kitchen with break-fast bar, lots of cabinets and built-in desk area. New appliances, spacious master bedroom, walk-in closets, off street 2 car parking sprinkler system & 10x10 storage shed for

ONLY $49,500! ref #169.

Documents

DFW NewsFlash · DFW NewsFlash encourages submission of articles, facts, and photographs pertaining to the people, life, business, and entertainment of the DFW Airport and the surrounding