This young student has learned to use her braces to her advantage (Photo credit: Dan Carroll)

When I think of karate, I think of “sweep the leg,” the infamous line spoken by the Cobra Kai sensei from The Karate Kid. Others think of Bruce Lee movies. Most of us can see ourselves roundhouse kicking a mugger in the chin and saving the day. For most, learning karate or any other martial art is achievable. But to others, it seems like a pipe dream.

One World Karate Transforms Lives

Imagine being in a wheelchair with your muscles permanently in knots, or the frustration of being incapable of understanding the world around you.

Imagine being beset with these challenges and wanting to learn karate. How disheartening to not only you, but to those who love you.

People with special needs and their families are an overlooked and marginalized minority in our society. Sure, they are afforded handicapped parking spots and wheelchair ramps, but what are we doing to help them feel like members of our society? Dan Carroll teaches them karate. [Read more…]

Zoo Keeper Exotic Pets is stocked floor to ceiling with amazing animals

We love to support local businesses not only for economic reasons, or because their uniqueness is refreshing, but because locals tend to have a more personal touch. When it comes to our pets, we appreciate a personal touch more than ever.

So kick the chain stores and make the drive to Research Blvd. and Burnet, for Zoo Keeper Exotic Pets. We did – a long time ago.

As the name implies, Zoo Keeper Exotic Pets is not a dog and cat-type pet store. But considering its relatively small size, implanted in the middle of a shopping strip, this local shop always provides entertainment and insight into the world of less common pets. [Read more…]