• Among the things Linda Johnson Stewart (above) is thankful for this holiday season is some tasty treats from her good friend shared with her. Find out what others are thankful for by reading this Thursday's print edition of The Terrell Tribune.
• For most people, the holiday season is a time for thankfulness, worship, celebration and love. For some, however, it is a time to look for an opportunity to commit crime. The Terrell Police Department wants to remind area residents of several simple steps you can take to protect their family and property during this busy holiday season.
According to Terrell Police Department Chief Jody Lay, most cities, and Terrell is no exception, see a spike in crimes of opportunity during the holiday season. Many times these crimes could have been prevented simply by taking an extra moment to “harden the target.”
Lay advises that simple steps like practicing “Take, Lock & Hide” before getting out of your car for a shopping spree can significantly limit the odds of your car being burglarized.
Take your purse with you. Lock your car as you leave it. Hide gifts, electronic items and other items left behind by covering them up or putting them in the trunk,” Lay said. “Thieves will walk a parking lot looking for quick access items to steal and they love unlocked cars.”
The local police chief also advises that holiday shoppers only carry the credit cards they plan to use in their wallet or purse and never carry a large amount of cash.
“When in a store shopping, never leave your purse or wallet unattended in the buggy, even if just for a moment. It takes only a few seconds to grab something and walk away,” he said. “As always, be mindful of who is around you and especially if they seem to be taking a special interest in you or what you are carrying. If really concerned, go to a crowded area of the store or seek out a manager or security officer for assistance.
As always, burglars love to hit homes while residents are out shopping. Keep all doors and windows locked, activate alarms and utilize outside lighting.
“If you know you are going to be away for a while, ask your neighbor to help keep an eye on your home,” Lay said. “Remember the ‘door-knockers’ who are knocking on your door just to see if anyone is at home. If you do not answer, they may believe the house is empty and hit it.”
Lay suggests residents flick a light, turn on the TV or otherwise to something to let them know someone is at home. If they do not leave and a resident is not comfortable answering the door, communicate with them by speaking through the door. If they do not leave, call the police and let TPD check it out for you.
“Simple steps can keep this holiday season a safe and wonderful time in our city,” Lay said. “On behalf of the men and women of the Terrell Police Department, Happy Thanksgiving.”
• The biggest shopping day of the year is quickly approaching. Pick up a copy of this week's Terrell Tribune or Bargain Hunter for some great gift ideas and sales specials.
• The Lady Tigers (3-2) tip off the District 15-4A basketball season tonight against Mesquite Poteet (6-2) at the Terrell ISD athletic complex. JV gets under way at 6 p.m. with the varsity game at 7:30 p.m. Several 15-4A squads are off to good starts this year. Lancaster, which faces Forney (1-5) tonight, remains unbeaten at 6-0 while West Mesquite is off to a 5-2 start. Red Oak also has a winning record at 4-3. As for Mesquite Poteet, the team has benefitted somewhat from its schedule having beaten Hebron (3-4), Richardson (3-3)and Rockwall-Heath (1-5). The Lady Pirates did, however, knock off good Lake Highlands (6-2), Rockwall (4-2) and Richardson Berkner (4-1) teams.
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