AstroDad invents new image processing technique

…and we are the first to see the results  From 22-25 November, 2012 I took advantage of time off from work and a spate of extremely clear, unusually cold night skies to image the Orion Nebula, also known as M42. During late November this iconic deep space phenomenon does not rise above the horizon until […]

Texas Regional Medical Center at Sunnyvale expands Emergency Department

(Sunnyvale – December 2, 2012) Texas Regional Medical Center at Sunnyvale added seven beds to its emergency department recently, doubling the department’s bed count. The $100,000 expansion to the acute-care hospital, which celebrated its third anniversary in late September, will better accommodate the more than 500,000 people in its growing service area. Patient visits to […]

Texas Health Rockwall receives designation for newborn, infant health guidelines

(Rockwall – November 28, 2012) Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Rockwall has earned the Texas Ten Step Program facility designation from the Texas Department of State Health Services. The Texas Ten Step Program encourages breastfeeding as the preferred method of feeding for newborns and infants. Recognizing the relationship between breastfeeding and improved newborn and infant health, […]

Sassy says, chew on this

Dear Sassy, Got any advice for dogs that chew TV remote controls, telephones and kids’ toys? Signed, Chewy Dear Chewy, If your dog is a puppy, chewing is a normal part of teething. Just like human babies, chewing is an instinct that helps soothe the soreness and helps the new teeth push through the gums. […]

Discover Australia during exclusive event at Travel Leaders Rowlett

(November 26, 2012) Ever wonder what it would be like to sail in Sydney Harbor, experience the vibrant cultural scene in Melbourne or dive the Great Barrier Reef? With its sophisticated cities, stunning coastal and mountain regions, indigenous culture, and world-class food and wine, Australia woos and allures like no other place on earth. Gain […]

Finding Thanksgiving: Review of ‘One Thousand Gifts’

Thanksgiving couldn’t wait until late November this year. It showed up early when I opened One Thousand Gifts, by Ann Voskamp. By chapter three, I wasn’t just reading; I had responded to the challenge that inspired the best-seller—to list one thousand blessings. The author, a farmer’s wife and homeschooling mother of six, had plenty of […]

AstroDad reflects on history’s mysteries in space

(November 20, 2012) There is a rich history of astronomy in America, although much more contemporary than, say, the ancient Persian and Chinese practitioners of this field. Known as “astrologers” in ancient times, these (almost exclusively) men frequently held seats of great power in dynastic and even feudal governments. Since America has only been a […]

Heath Mayor’s Message: Holiday blessings and festivities

(November 17, 2012) This is one of my favorite times of the year as we prepare for the holiday season ahead. From gathering around the Thanksgiving table with family, to festive celebrations with friends, and finally, the peace of a Christmas Eve candlelight service, I treasure each moment with friends and family. It’s also the […]

Understanding math through ‘Number Sense’

(November 15, 2012) School is in full swing and kids are trying their best to keep up in math. What can we as parents do to help them understand their homework without doing it for them? Math is a cumulative skill and many children struggle today because they have missed something in the past. Successful […]

Happy holidays, happy hearts

(November 13, 2012) The decorations are going up and excitement is in the air. Gifts are being bought and parties are being planned. With all the fun and excitement comes a good bit of stress. Schedules get busy. The kids have programs at school. You need to work a few extra hours before you can […]