Dart to more evidence that being too plugged in is hazardous to your health. Youíve heard about the risks of driving while distracted by cell-phone use, whether talking or texting. Now weíre told that walking while distracted may be a problem, too. After four years of decreases in pedestrian fatalities, the numbers rose slightly in the first half of 2010 (second half statistics arenít complete yet), and some safety experts say the use of electronic gadgets may be at least partly to blame. While they may not be at risk of running off the road and crashing into a tree, pedestrians and joggers who wear headphones or earbuds could be more likely to step in front of an oncoming vehicle or fail to notice a ědonít walkî signal. The Road Runners Club of America urges runners to leave the headphones at home when exercising, or to use only one earpiece if you absolutely must have an inspirational soundtrack thumping in the background. Sounds like healthy advice for walkers as well.

Laurels to Samís Chairwash, which added some sparkle to Lutheran Home residents who brought in their wheelchairs for a good cleanup and any necessary maintenance. No matter how old we may be, many of us retain our appreciation for a spiffy set of wheels, especially if weíre relying on them to get around. Thursdayís event also paid tribute to Sam and Joyce Allen, Trinity Oaks residents who launched Samís Car Wash in Salisbury more than half a century ago and provided gift certificates and other treats for the chairwash participants.

Dart to the pit-bull attacks that injured two horses in separate incidents in Rowan County. The horse owners are understandably outraged that the attack occurred. Thereís no excuse for any dog, let alone a pit bull, running loose in the neighborhood. As disturbing as this incident may be, it could have been worse. Two weeks ago in Waxhaw, a 5-year-old girl was mauled to death by pit bulls.