The Albatross – Symbol of the InterNations Pioneers

Following several years in project management and engineering, as well as reception of his juris doctor from South Texas College, Stanley Duane Wilkinson began his private practice as an attorney in Houston in 1986. Outside of his Houston law practice, Stanley Duane Wilkinson contributes to groups such as InterNations.

Since its establishment in 2007, InterNations has provided community connection for those choosing to move across the globe. The organization sees its members, which now number nearly four million, as being the pioneers of the modern world. Its choice of the albatross as its symbol recognizes that pioneering spirit.

One of the world’s most studied birds, the albatross has the largest wingspan, which can measure more than 11 feet. Its flight ability continues to amaze engineers and scientists, as the albatross can glide for hundreds of miles without having to flap its wings. In addition to the efficiency of its flight, it can also reach 50 miles per hour in speed.

InterNations identifies the exploratory nature of its members with albatrosses, which travel great distances while still retaining a connection to their birthplace. Although excellent in flight, the birds often have difficult landings, just as those taking up residence in new lands may face challenges. They also love the company of others.

Nature Conservancy Recommends Green Infrastructure Practices

In addition to serving as a private practice attorney for more than 18 years, Stanley Duane Wilkinson of Houston, Texas has been a project engineer and consultant for companies such as Texaco and FLUOR, Inc. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Houston attorney Stanley Duane Wilkinson supports charitable organizations such as the Nature Conservancy.

For more than 65 years, the Nature Conservancy has worked to address climate change, protect land and water, and build healthy cities in nearly 80 countries worldwide. As part of its work in responsible urban planning, the Nature Conservancy recently developed a white paper that encourages engineers to incorporate green and hybrid infrastructure solutions into their work.

Green infrastructure involves combining elements of natural systems with manmade gray infrastructure; for example, planting trees to restore contaminated soil or constructing wetlands to naturally treat wastewater. Green infrastructure practices can make businesses more resilient, as they decrease vulnerability in case of power outages and mechanical failures, as well as increases in material costs.

The Marcy Note – A “Unicorn” U.S. Paper Currency Issue

Based in Houston, Stanley Duane Wilkinson is a longtime attorney who has plaintiff and defense experience in civil litigation, and has handled numerous personal injury cases. An avid collector of rare paper money, Houston attorney Stanley Duane Wilkinson possesses U.S. currency from 1861 to the present.

One of the rarest pieces of U.S. paper money is the 1891-issued Marcy Note, which features a portrait of U.S. Secretary of State William L. Marcy and has a face value of $1,000. At the time of its issuance, 1,500 of the notes were printed, which were never intended for mass circulation.

With a current purchasing power of approximately $28,200, the Marcy Note was used as a way of completing wire transfers between banks. Not only did such bills not reach private hands, but they were taken out of circulation after 2-3 years, so they did not remain with the financial institutions either.

With the only Marcy Note held privately having sold for $2.6 million in 2013, there is only one other example of this currency known to exist – it can be found in the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection.

Distracted Driving Laws in Texas

Private practice attorney Stanley Duane Wilkinson established his Houston law firm over three decades ago. A graduate of the South Texas College of Law in Houston, Texas, Stanley Duane Wilkinson focuses on several aspects of criminal law, including defense for traffic violations.

Under Texas law, distracted driving charges can result in hefty fines or jail time, depending on the violation. In 2017, texting while driving became illegal under state law. First-time offenders could be fined up to $99. Repeat offenders and incidents that result in personal injury or death could result in a jail term. As a fault-based state, drivers who were distracted at the time of an accident are usually found liable.

While other types of distracted behaviors such as eating, applying makeup, or not watching the road are not in themselves illegal, these actions can lead to road rule violations that can result in being pulled over by law enforcement. Distracted drivers can also be fined for reckless driving.