DALLAS (AP) -- Snubbed by Newt Gingrich's conservative group, the owner of a Dallas topless club has decided to create a shelter for pit bulls in his honor.
Dawn Rizos was set to receive an "Entrepreneur of the Year" award on Oct. 7 from the group American Solutions for Winning the Future, led by the former U.S. House speaker.
But the group reneged, saying it had mistaken her business for another. Rizos, who owns the topless club The Lodge, was refunded the $5,000 fee required to receive the award.
So she donated the money to Animal Guardians of America's sanctuary for rescued dogs in Celina, about 35 miles north of Dallas.
"Newt's Nook -- A Home for Pit Bulls" is under construction. Rizos says they'll invite Gingrich to the formal dedication in early November.
Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
