What a long week this week has been. But hey it's Friday night!
Wow how things have changed, long gone are the days of coming home and putting on my jeans and boots and starting that big black shiny Road King and heading down the highway for some wind in my face. Stopping in at Maggie's on Michigan where all the real Indy bikers hung out to have a cold one with our friends...and the weekend revolved around "The Bike".
Now Friday nights go like this......
Have had all I can take at the office and head out at 4:00...load Seger in the Van (ya the Golden goes to work everyday with me) and go pick up the Dude (aka...Nash). Find out he had an awesome day and they had been having water fun all afternoon...nothing like 15 soaked kids. So we get his stuff together and load the van back up......did you notice I said VAN.....ouch that hurts....I always have driven trucks.....Jeeps and Suburbans were my choice but I did have one Ford Expedition but I hated it.....anyway....Yes I drive a Chevy Van....and for those of us from the 70's I can assure you nothing you are thinking happens in Chevy Vans anymore so get over it....
So we call momma (aka Mauzy) and divide up stops on the way for the ranch. Nash and I pick Blockbuster as our stop. I tell you I have ridden a Harley all over the US and England, Ireland, Scotland (home of the famous Kim Ayres), Holland, Germany and France....ok you got me...had to ride thru Belgium to get to France....but there is nothing quite like going to blockbuster with a 6 year old. So half an hour later after paying for 4 movies and 4 re-stocking fees from the last ones we returned late we were headed for home.....
Now it's Friday night movie time ....everyone is in their shorts and favorite t-shirts and soon the table downstairs will be full of chicken nuggets, chips, burgers and pop corn. And we can start by watching Nash's two academy award winners....Santa Clause one and two..........
And my big choice left over from the old days.....should I wear the t-shirt from Hog's Breath Saloon or Fat Boy's Rule.....
So what's my point in all of this.....Absolutely nothing......life is good, just different then it use to be and different then I planned....but if I had to choose between heading down the highway with the wind in my hair or watching a movie with Nash.... I will hang with Nash.....
Does anybody know if the new Dressers come with a DVD player in the sidecar?
PEACE DUDE!
Friday, June 29, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Chris Benoit Tragedy!
I had only been loosely following this story of WWE Professional Wrestler Chris Benoit's Families awful murder/suicide. I thought to myself, what a tragedy and I can never understand why or how people can do this. I have watched with intrigue as the media has already made this issue all about "Roid Rage". Then I got really upset when Fox News discussed tonight that the Benoit's son was their RETARDED SON!
Well needless to say I raised right up on the couch for a number of reasons.
1. First I bristled at the reference to "retarded son". Actually I more then bristled and for those that know me know I am a "Pit Bull" when it comes to person first and appropriate language when discussing individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. And as I usually do I picked up the phone and called FOX News to let them know my displeasure and encouraged them to contact The Arc of The United States to learn more about properly reporting on individuals with disabilities.
2. The constant discussion of "Roid Rage"! Is there abuse of steroids in sports? You bet your ass there is. And if you think it's stopped in any sport due to testing then you are kidding yourself. Steroids control sports from the high school level all the way thru professional sports. Let's face it you don't grow 6'7 300 pound offensive lineman in Iowa from eating corn on the cob. So let's get over the fact that my god this man may have been doing steroids....I am sure he was! I played football in college and was around "JUICE" all the time. I have seen "Roid Rage" and some of the effects but bottom line there is no real information about long term results and the effect on individuals. A perfect example is Lyle Alzado died from supposed steroid abuse and Arnold Schwarzenegger become Governor of California. So I hope the media can dig a little deeper on this issue.
3. Then I sat back down and was quickly overcome by a pit in my stomach. Could this be more about their son then the other issues they were discussing. I did some quick research and discovered that this young man had Fragile X syndrome. What I found was that Fragile X is the leading cause of inherited mental impairment (what I refer to as intellectual disability and some may refer to as mental retardation). The pit in my stomach got a little bigger and I knew I needed to come share some thoughts or I would be awake all night.
As I sit here I wonder what caused this man with so many great things going on in his life to commit this tragic act? Was it related to drugs? Was it related to alcohol? Was it related to marital problems? Or was it something to due with how his son's disability was effecting him or his family?
What I do know is the one regret I have from when those original 8 of us started and made it an D.A.D.S.acronym for Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome is I wish we would have made it non disability specific. It works very well the way it is but this pit in my stomach tells me I wish I would have been there for this man. I have no idea how the other wrestlers around him where with his son, I am sure they were great but did they understand...I bet not. I am sure they understood the pressure of their career's and marriage etc but add the disability of your loving son and the fact that he inherited it from you.............wow....I have no idea if this had any ting to do with the decisions Mr. Benoit made over the weekend and I never will.
All I do know is life is tough, careers are tough, marriage is tough and a very high percentage of marriages that include a child with a disability end in divorce...a way too high number....
Some how we have to reach out to other DADS and let them know that no matter whether it's Down syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X or (fill in the blank) we are out here man...reach out....talk to us....lean on us...let us carry you for awhile if we need to....but we are here....we are bonded as brothers in a fraternity we never set out to join. We understand it....We get it....
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the Benoit family tonight.
PEACE DUDE!
Well needless to say I raised right up on the couch for a number of reasons.
1. First I bristled at the reference to "retarded son". Actually I more then bristled and for those that know me know I am a "Pit Bull" when it comes to person first and appropriate language when discussing individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. And as I usually do I picked up the phone and called FOX News to let them know my displeasure and encouraged them to contact The Arc of The United States to learn more about properly reporting on individuals with disabilities.
2. The constant discussion of "Roid Rage"! Is there abuse of steroids in sports? You bet your ass there is. And if you think it's stopped in any sport due to testing then you are kidding yourself. Steroids control sports from the high school level all the way thru professional sports. Let's face it you don't grow 6'7 300 pound offensive lineman in Iowa from eating corn on the cob. So let's get over the fact that my god this man may have been doing steroids....I am sure he was! I played football in college and was around "JUICE" all the time. I have seen "Roid Rage" and some of the effects but bottom line there is no real information about long term results and the effect on individuals. A perfect example is Lyle Alzado died from supposed steroid abuse and Arnold Schwarzenegger become Governor of California. So I hope the media can dig a little deeper on this issue.
3. Then I sat back down and was quickly overcome by a pit in my stomach. Could this be more about their son then the other issues they were discussing. I did some quick research and discovered that this young man had Fragile X syndrome. What I found was that Fragile X is the leading cause of inherited mental impairment (what I refer to as intellectual disability and some may refer to as mental retardation). The pit in my stomach got a little bigger and I knew I needed to come share some thoughts or I would be awake all night.
As I sit here I wonder what caused this man with so many great things going on in his life to commit this tragic act? Was it related to drugs? Was it related to alcohol? Was it related to marital problems? Or was it something to due with how his son's disability was effecting him or his family?
What I do know is the one regret I have from when those original 8 of us started and made it an D.A.D.S.acronym for Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome is I wish we would have made it non disability specific. It works very well the way it is but this pit in my stomach tells me I wish I would have been there for this man. I have no idea how the other wrestlers around him where with his son, I am sure they were great but did they understand...I bet not. I am sure they understood the pressure of their career's and marriage etc but add the disability of your loving son and the fact that he inherited it from you.............wow....I have no idea if this had any ting to do with the decisions Mr. Benoit made over the weekend and I never will.
All I do know is life is tough, careers are tough, marriage is tough and a very high percentage of marriages that include a child with a disability end in divorce...a way too high number....
Some how we have to reach out to other DADS and let them know that no matter whether it's Down syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X or (fill in the blank) we are out here man...reach out....talk to us....lean on us...let us carry you for awhile if we need to....but we are here....we are bonded as brothers in a fraternity we never set out to join. We understand it....We get it....
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the Benoit family tonight.
PEACE DUDE!
Sunday, June 24, 2007
State waiver system frustrates families of disabled
There was an interesting article in today's Muncie Star and Press about the Indiana Medicaid Waiver System..click here to read the article.
I thought there was some interesting things in this article. Here are my comments on a few.
1. For 22-year-old Chris Eldridge, who has Down's syndrome, six years is how long he's been on a waiting list for one of the state's developmental disabilities waivers.
Response: Here in the US the proper name is Down syndrome, you would think a reporter could get it right.
2. The waiver is what his parents, Tom and Connie Honn, need to ensure Eldridge is cared for by the state when they die. It's also the document he needs to work full-time at Cannon Industries, the industrial division of Hillcroft Services, East Central Indiana's support services agency for the developmentally disabled.
Response: No wonder people are confused. First of all the waiver gives the individual the funding for services now and throughout their lives. There are many other items like a "Special Needs Trust" that lay out a families wishes on their child's life after they are gone. I would not just leave it up to the state.
The other issue that bothers me a great deal is that the waiver is a document that someone needs to go to work. This is absolutely false. If someone wants to go to work they can make that transition on their own, they can apply and receive services thru Vocational Rehabilitation which will fund the support services they need to find, be trained and be success full at the job they choose. What they missed is the Waiver is needed for Cannon Industries to get paid to offer services at their SHELTERED WORKSHOP. Now if that is what the family wants that is fine but the only thing the waiver does is get Hillcroft paid from the state. That does not prevent the person from attending Hillcroft for services...they can start right away but the family would have to pay privately for these services. Plenty of info left out of this section.
The article goes on to talk about many things the State of Indiana is going to do this and do that....under Governor Mitch Daniels administration we have heard lots of talk about more funding for waivers, improved quality and better services....What is Mitch Roob at FSSA's famous line....Better...Faster...Cheaper....or if all else fails we will give a big outside contract to one of our buddies to see what they can do to make money....
Someday individuals with disabilities and their families will unite and realize that together we could be the largest voting block in the United States and instead of always fighting for funding for IDEA, NCLB and Medicaid and Waiver services we could actually start putting together a plan that works.
Ok, if there is any elected officials out there that read this and say Ya, ya but what is the plan. Drop me a response and I will get you my contact information and I will be very happy to sit down and explain a plan that will work.
Let's get organized, let's get out and vote and let's get involved in policy making and stop all this frustration.....
PEACE DUDE!
I thought there was some interesting things in this article. Here are my comments on a few.
1. For 22-year-old Chris Eldridge, who has Down's syndrome, six years is how long he's been on a waiting list for one of the state's developmental disabilities waivers.
Response: Here in the US the proper name is Down syndrome, you would think a reporter could get it right.
2. The waiver is what his parents, Tom and Connie Honn, need to ensure Eldridge is cared for by the state when they die. It's also the document he needs to work full-time at Cannon Industries, the industrial division of Hillcroft Services, East Central Indiana's support services agency for the developmentally disabled.
Response: No wonder people are confused. First of all the waiver gives the individual the funding for services now and throughout their lives. There are many other items like a "Special Needs Trust" that lay out a families wishes on their child's life after they are gone. I would not just leave it up to the state.
The other issue that bothers me a great deal is that the waiver is a document that someone needs to go to work. This is absolutely false. If someone wants to go to work they can make that transition on their own, they can apply and receive services thru Vocational Rehabilitation which will fund the support services they need to find, be trained and be success full at the job they choose. What they missed is the Waiver is needed for Cannon Industries to get paid to offer services at their SHELTERED WORKSHOP. Now if that is what the family wants that is fine but the only thing the waiver does is get Hillcroft paid from the state. That does not prevent the person from attending Hillcroft for services...they can start right away but the family would have to pay privately for these services. Plenty of info left out of this section.
The article goes on to talk about many things the State of Indiana is going to do this and do that....under Governor Mitch Daniels administration we have heard lots of talk about more funding for waivers, improved quality and better services....What is Mitch Roob at FSSA's famous line....Better...Faster...Cheaper....or if all else fails we will give a big outside contract to one of our buddies to see what they can do to make money....
Someday individuals with disabilities and their families will unite and realize that together we could be the largest voting block in the United States and instead of always fighting for funding for IDEA, NCLB and Medicaid and Waiver services we could actually start putting together a plan that works.
Ok, if there is any elected officials out there that read this and say Ya, ya but what is the plan. Drop me a response and I will get you my contact information and I will be very happy to sit down and explain a plan that will work.
Let's get organized, let's get out and vote and let's get involved in policy making and stop all this frustration.....
PEACE DUDE!
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Let's talk Politics!
Hey, sorry I have been awol for so long....life has been crazy and work is even crazier...
Anyway some of you will know this and some of you will not but I use to ride motorcycles as my passion and hobby. Last one was a beautiful black FLHPi...for you non Harley people that would be a touring police bike converted to a RoadKing ....well those days are gone and I had to find a new passion....well it became politics and legislation. Just love that crap....
Well I am now going into my political mode and starting to talk about politics in a big way....
So here we go....The AAPD...The American Associaiton of people with disabilities along with some other national disability groups issued surveys to all the candidates for President. The results are interesting click here scroll down to the bottom of the page to read the responses.
Oh ya, when you get down there you will see very few have answered.....Hey RUDY? Hey HILLARY? Hey NEWT and FRED...if you are running.....This stuff is important to me...much more important then debating abortion...same sex marriage....Supreme Court litmus tests ect.....So fill the thing out so I know where you stand...
Right now I can say I am really looking at Senator Obama....he took the time to answer the questions.....and he definatley has someone on staff that Gets it!
More to come.....if you are not registered to VOTE...please do....the one and only requirement from my stand point to be an American is to register and cast your vote for who you believe in......it always amazes me the people well arrive in this county half naked on boats.....almost die in the desert or the back of a semi and those of us that are citizens by birth don't bother to vote.....come on folks...
PEACE DUDE
Anyway some of you will know this and some of you will not but I use to ride motorcycles as my passion and hobby. Last one was a beautiful black FLHPi...for you non Harley people that would be a touring police bike converted to a RoadKing ....well those days are gone and I had to find a new passion....well it became politics and legislation. Just love that crap....
Well I am now going into my political mode and starting to talk about politics in a big way....
So here we go....The AAPD...The American Associaiton of people with disabilities along with some other national disability groups issued surveys to all the candidates for President. The results are interesting click here scroll down to the bottom of the page to read the responses.
Oh ya, when you get down there you will see very few have answered.....Hey RUDY? Hey HILLARY? Hey NEWT and FRED...if you are running.....This stuff is important to me...much more important then debating abortion...same sex marriage....Supreme Court litmus tests ect.....So fill the thing out so I know where you stand...
Right now I can say I am really looking at Senator Obama....he took the time to answer the questions.....and he definatley has someone on staff that Gets it!
More to come.....if you are not registered to VOTE...please do....the one and only requirement from my stand point to be an American is to register and cast your vote for who you believe in......it always amazes me the people well arrive in this county half naked on boats.....almost die in the desert or the back of a semi and those of us that are citizens by birth don't bother to vote.....come on folks...
PEACE DUDE
Monday, May 28, 2007
The Gentleman from Scotland!
Well what a weekend it was. Rain and strategy wins the Indianapolis 500 and a true gentleman wins the race. Dario Franchitti was victorious for Andretti/Green racing. After much back and forth and a three hour rain delay it was a real race to the finish.
I think what impressed me the most from the win is how truley happy Dario was to have won at Indy. I was also so impressed with the sportmanship and friendship of the entire Andretti/Green racing team. Growing up in Indiana I have always been an AJ Foyt fan and my all time favorite phrase was Andretti's car is beginning to slow....
But as I have watched Micheal Andretti become and owner and a driver and seen him build a true TEAM I have been impressed. While I will always have a spot in my heart for AJ Foyt and his team I think I am slowly becoming a fan or Marco, Tony, Danica and of course Dario.
Great job to the entire team, you make all Hoosiers proud....
Also great job to Casey Mears for winning the 600. I will always be a Stewart fan but it was nice to see if Smoke could not hold the lead to see a first timer and a Mears win on Memorial Day...
Great weekend for racing.....
PEACE DUDE!
I think what impressed me the most from the win is how truley happy Dario was to have won at Indy. I was also so impressed with the sportmanship and friendship of the entire Andretti/Green racing team. Growing up in Indiana I have always been an AJ Foyt fan and my all time favorite phrase was Andretti's car is beginning to slow....
But as I have watched Micheal Andretti become and owner and a driver and seen him build a true TEAM I have been impressed. While I will always have a spot in my heart for AJ Foyt and his team I think I am slowly becoming a fan or Marco, Tony, Danica and of course Dario.
Great job to the entire team, you make all Hoosiers proud....
Also great job to Casey Mears for winning the 600. I will always be a Stewart fan but it was nice to see if Smoke could not hold the lead to see a first timer and a Mears win on Memorial Day...
Great weekend for racing.....
PEACE DUDE!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
How I come up with Names.
Ok B Strong called me out not long ago about my dogs name. You see when we knew our puppy was born and we needed to come up with a name we had many on the list. But alas we could not decide....but we had just received our tickets to the up coming Bob Seger concert (see my post about the concert below). Well we kicked it around for a few minutes and Seger it was.....and his nickname around the neighborhood is Seger Bobby.....what can I say..
OK, this is where I will probably get into trouble....
Before we had Seger and before we had Nash we got a new puppy that was a beautiful black lab...we got him as a puppy also and with out hesitation I named him Rudy after the movie Rudy of Notre Dame fame. Love the movie, respect the man and I have been a huge ND fan all my life....Ok here it comes...
If you talk to Mauzy she will give you all kinds of stories about Nash's name.....it came from the poet Ogden Nash.....we grew up like Crosby, Stills and Nash....oh ya Young was in there for a time also....But the truth is I was always a big Miami Vice fan so when Don Johnson starred in Nash Bridges I was hooked on that show also. I mean how could you not....Don Johnson, Cheech Marin and a yellow Cuda to boot. Well I decided during the name search that Nash sounded like a great name for a middle linebacker for the Irish. Mauzy was not sold for a long time....but as we progressed thru the pregnancy I kept calling him Nash and Nash man until one day it finally stuck and she started calling him Nash also......and for those the know the Nash Man....it really fits him......just the other day we were leaving school and he looked at one of the other girls and said....Hey baby....
Oh ya, and to top it off...we signed up for 1st grade flag football today...
Peace Dude.
OK, this is where I will probably get into trouble....
Before we had Seger and before we had Nash we got a new puppy that was a beautiful black lab...we got him as a puppy also and with out hesitation I named him Rudy after the movie Rudy of Notre Dame fame. Love the movie, respect the man and I have been a huge ND fan all my life....Ok here it comes...
If you talk to Mauzy she will give you all kinds of stories about Nash's name.....it came from the poet Ogden Nash.....we grew up like Crosby, Stills and Nash....oh ya Young was in there for a time also....But the truth is I was always a big Miami Vice fan so when Don Johnson starred in Nash Bridges I was hooked on that show also. I mean how could you not....Don Johnson, Cheech Marin and a yellow Cuda to boot. Well I decided during the name search that Nash sounded like a great name for a middle linebacker for the Irish. Mauzy was not sold for a long time....but as we progressed thru the pregnancy I kept calling him Nash and Nash man until one day it finally stuck and she started calling him Nash also......and for those the know the Nash Man....it really fits him......just the other day we were leaving school and he looked at one of the other girls and said....Hey baby....
Oh ya, and to top it off...we signed up for 1st grade flag football today...
Peace Dude.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Boyz will be Boyz
Well I did not laugh at the time but it is kinda funny now.
Yesterday Nash, Seger ( or 6 month old puppy) and I are at the office for our Saturday morning check on things. I decide we are gonna head out and decide to go hit the restroom before we go.
As usual I make Nash go also. So off we go into the men's room and Seger decides to join us.
So Nash and I are in the restroom taking care of what we need to and Seger looks around and thinks......hey I get it....
AND PEE'S all over the floor.........
I guess Boyz will be Boyz
PEACE DUDE
Yesterday Nash, Seger ( or 6 month old puppy) and I are at the office for our Saturday morning check on things. I decide we are gonna head out and decide to go hit the restroom before we go.
As usual I make Nash go also. So off we go into the men's room and Seger decides to join us.
So Nash and I are in the restroom taking care of what we need to and Seger looks around and thinks......hey I get it....
AND PEE'S all over the floor.........
I guess Boyz will be Boyz
PEACE DUDE
Prenatal Testing!
There once again has been much discussion about the latest prenatal testing guidelines spurred by an article in the New York Times. I am not going to link the articles or any of the posts in this post I am just going to share some thoughts as the very proud father of a son with Down syndrome and the husband (happy mothers day Mauzy) to a contributor to the gifts book....
1. Prenatal testing for Down syndrome to me is not a Pro-life or Pro-Choice debate so why does everyone try to lump it in there. It is also not a Right or Left debate. If 90% of positive tests are terminated do we believe those 90% are all Pro-Choice left wingers....I doubt it...Politics is always just a convienence....
2. Don't presume anything about meor my son because he has Down syndrome. DS is only one part of what makes up my son and his personality. And don't presume I am a raving cheerleader for Down syndrome....I am not....but what I am is one Big Mean Dawg Champion for people with Down syndrome. We often remind people that we call the group we Started Dads Appreciating Down syndrome because most of us agreed we hate it a little before we learned to appreciate it.
3. I always love the comment from people when they see Nash and I together.....ohh...he is so cute and they are always so happy....REALLY? Come on over and spend a dinner hour with me when he does not want what's on his plate. People with Down syndrome have the same range of emotions as all of us...
4. Don't ever call me a Saint or refer to how great I am because you could never handle having a child with ds. Give me a break....I am no Saint and no one knows what they can handle until it's put on your plate.......
5. If you don't know that individuals with Down syndrome learn very well just differently and can attend college and hold good paying jobs ( I know some that make more money a year then I do and I am not hurting) don't preach to me......ask some questions and learn.....
So with a few comments I am done.....the debate will roll on and it will be all about Pro-life and Pro-Choice, Religion and Atheist (geez, like that has not caused enough wars) and the Peter Singers of the world that think the world is only for the wonderful elite like themselves....
As for me.....Nash and I are gonna celebrate Mothers Day with his mommy and call his grandmothers.....then we are gonna mow the grass on the John Deere....and after that we are gonna do whatever we feel like and Down syndrome will not run thru my head again until I get back on line..............
PEACE DUDE
1. Prenatal testing for Down syndrome to me is not a Pro-life or Pro-Choice debate so why does everyone try to lump it in there. It is also not a Right or Left debate. If 90% of positive tests are terminated do we believe those 90% are all Pro-Choice left wingers....I doubt it...Politics is always just a convienence....
2. Don't presume anything about meor my son because he has Down syndrome. DS is only one part of what makes up my son and his personality. And don't presume I am a raving cheerleader for Down syndrome....I am not....but what I am is one Big Mean Dawg Champion for people with Down syndrome. We often remind people that we call the group we Started Dads Appreciating Down syndrome because most of us agreed we hate it a little before we learned to appreciate it.
3. I always love the comment from people when they see Nash and I together.....ohh...he is so cute and they are always so happy....REALLY? Come on over and spend a dinner hour with me when he does not want what's on his plate. People with Down syndrome have the same range of emotions as all of us...
4. Don't ever call me a Saint or refer to how great I am because you could never handle having a child with ds. Give me a break....I am no Saint and no one knows what they can handle until it's put on your plate.......
5. If you don't know that individuals with Down syndrome learn very well just differently and can attend college and hold good paying jobs ( I know some that make more money a year then I do and I am not hurting) don't preach to me......ask some questions and learn.....
So with a few comments I am done.....the debate will roll on and it will be all about Pro-life and Pro-Choice, Religion and Atheist (geez, like that has not caused enough wars) and the Peter Singers of the world that think the world is only for the wonderful elite like themselves....
As for me.....Nash and I are gonna celebrate Mothers Day with his mommy and call his grandmothers.....then we are gonna mow the grass on the John Deere....and after that we are gonna do whatever we feel like and Down syndrome will not run thru my head again until I get back on line..............
PEACE DUDE
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
In Indy the Month of May is Special
The month of May in most places brings the thought of spring and flowers and the upcoming end of the school year. But here in Indiana it's something much more special.
When you say it's the month of May here Hoosiers know you mean the track is open. Yes it's Indy 500 time. While the "Grand Daddy" of them all may not be as spectacualar as it once was when all of open wheel participated in the race.Bump day was acutally a day where people were giving it everything they had to get into the show. And F1 Divers like Nigel Mansel came here to race at Indy.....but it is still oh so good....
As a kid growing up in Indiana the Indy 500 was a huge deal and to this Indiana kid it still is. I will always remember my first race at the track and my favorite number 14 AJ Foyt winning the Race. This year we celebrate 50 years of AJ being part of the 500 as a driver and an owner. And to throw even more nostalgia into this years race Little AL is racing for AJ....WOW.
I know today car racing is different then it was in the day.....NASCAR is the big event and I love that series and attend the Brickyard 400 every year to root for Tony Stewart in the number 20 car who is from Indiana and started his big career at the brickyard in open wheel. But the Indy 500 is where it all started for many the race fan.
I think the one time I was truley home sick in my entire life was in 1990. I was in my first year of a 4 year work stint in England and had not been home since Christmas. I got to watch the race live thanks to Sky TV and it was great. But during the opening ceremony when Jim Nabors sang "Back Home Again in Indiana" I really felt so far away from home.
So with all that said and as the big race draws closer on Memorial Day weekend I know that when Jim Sing's "Back Home Again" I will take a moment to remember that feeling I had when I was in England and know I was not near as homesick as our Hoosiers in uniform around the world are today. I will look to the sky and hope that each one of them can come home safely and once again hear those famous words " Gentlemen and Ladies, Start your engines".
When you say it's the month of May here Hoosiers know you mean the track is open. Yes it's Indy 500 time. While the "Grand Daddy" of them all may not be as spectacualar as it once was when all of open wheel participated in the race.Bump day was acutally a day where people were giving it everything they had to get into the show. And F1 Divers like Nigel Mansel came here to race at Indy.....but it is still oh so good....
As a kid growing up in Indiana the Indy 500 was a huge deal and to this Indiana kid it still is. I will always remember my first race at the track and my favorite number 14 AJ Foyt winning the Race. This year we celebrate 50 years of AJ being part of the 500 as a driver and an owner. And to throw even more nostalgia into this years race Little AL is racing for AJ....WOW.
I know today car racing is different then it was in the day.....NASCAR is the big event and I love that series and attend the Brickyard 400 every year to root for Tony Stewart in the number 20 car who is from Indiana and started his big career at the brickyard in open wheel. But the Indy 500 is where it all started for many the race fan.
I think the one time I was truley home sick in my entire life was in 1990. I was in my first year of a 4 year work stint in England and had not been home since Christmas. I got to watch the race live thanks to Sky TV and it was great. But during the opening ceremony when Jim Nabors sang "Back Home Again in Indiana" I really felt so far away from home.
So with all that said and as the big race draws closer on Memorial Day weekend I know that when Jim Sing's "Back Home Again" I will take a moment to remember that feeling I had when I was in England and know I was not near as homesick as our Hoosiers in uniform around the world are today. I will look to the sky and hope that each one of them can come home safely and once again hear those famous words " Gentlemen and Ladies, Start your engines".
Friday, May 04, 2007
I'm not a buyer, I'm a seller.......Not today!
Forget my current title of CEO at heart and soul I am a salesman. I started my work career working for my Dad in the restaurant business and then started my career as a professional in sales after college. And not to sound arrogant but I am pretty darn good at it.
Jan always gives me grief about the fact that I never ever get sucked in by the sales pitches the she would fall for if I was not there. As an example I am one of those people that would go to a hard sell time share promo for the freebie and actually enjoy watching them try to close me. I know I am weird.
Well that all flew out the window today when I picked Nash up from his afternoon Kindergarten class. We had been notified that they were taking pictures at school for the class graduation composite...how cute. Well we have already had class pictures taken twice this year and a family portrait. I told Jan lets just choose to let them take his picture for the class but we won't send any money for more. All is cool....right.
So I cruise in to pick up Nash today and on our way out the lady from Teddy Bear Portraits asked if I wanted to look at Nash's pictures. I said that we only had his picture taken for the class picture. She said I know but we went ahead and took some so we could give Nash this free gift (you see she heard me call him Nash). At this point she handed Nash a really cool art apron with his picture on it for him to use in class. Then she whipped out a whole group of sheets of pictures including the ones above.
Well bottom line when it was over I paid $95 for an art apron but got some really great pictures for free.
What a sucker.......
Peace Dude!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Daddy gets busted!
I remember back when we were first told that Nash had Down syndrome and one of my fears was that Nash might never be able to speak clearly enough so people could understand him.
Well as Nash has grown(he is 6) we have seen his speech become amazing by our definition and speaks very clearly (when he wants to) and his pronunciation seems to get clearer all the time. And what always amazes me is his correct usage of words and phrases.
Well tonight was one of those. I am not proud of the fact that I can use some pretty colorful language at times. No excuses here I am guilty of saying things I should not say but I do make a concentrated effort to not use that colorful language around Nash but let's face it at times I do.
So tonight as Jan is coming home we all (Nash, Seger and I) head to the garage to meet her. As Seger decides to boogie out the garage door Nash looks at him and says " God Damn it Seger".
Yes Daddy gets busted by his little imitator one more time.
Peace Dude!
Well as Nash has grown(he is 6) we have seen his speech become amazing by our definition and speaks very clearly (when he wants to) and his pronunciation seems to get clearer all the time. And what always amazes me is his correct usage of words and phrases.
Well tonight was one of those. I am not proud of the fact that I can use some pretty colorful language at times. No excuses here I am guilty of saying things I should not say but I do make a concentrated effort to not use that colorful language around Nash but let's face it at times I do.
So tonight as Jan is coming home we all (Nash, Seger and I) head to the garage to meet her. As Seger decides to boogie out the garage door Nash looks at him and says " God Damn it Seger".
Yes Daddy gets busted by his little imitator one more time.
Peace Dude!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Tony Soprano politically correct?
Who would have thought that of all people.....well OK Tony Soprano is just the lead character in the HBO series the Sopranos.....would use politically correct person first language.
I have to admit that I am a huge Sopranos fan and of all people I probably would have expected him to use the "R" word. I would not have liked it but I would have probably let it slide. But an interesting thing happened last night. As Tony was talking with the son of his murdered captain Vito, little Vito was having all kinds of issues at school. They did not really say what had transpired but Tony raked little Vito over the coals because the girl that he did something to was "Developmentally Disabled". Now I have no idea what supposedly happened nor do I probably want to know but I thought wow that surprised me.
All these people that use and throw the "R" word around as a regular part of their vocabulary and Tony Soprano uses pretty correct language. I am impressed. Maybe Rush Limbaugh and his entire class at The Limbaugh institute for Advanced Conservative Studies should consult with Tony on the proper use of the English Language and that you don't always have to offend to get ratings and afford your Cigars.
Peace Dude!
I have to admit that I am a huge Sopranos fan and of all people I probably would have expected him to use the "R" word. I would not have liked it but I would have probably let it slide. But an interesting thing happened last night. As Tony was talking with the son of his murdered captain Vito, little Vito was having all kinds of issues at school. They did not really say what had transpired but Tony raked little Vito over the coals because the girl that he did something to was "Developmentally Disabled". Now I have no idea what supposedly happened nor do I probably want to know but I thought wow that surprised me.
All these people that use and throw the "R" word around as a regular part of their vocabulary and Tony Soprano uses pretty correct language. I am impressed. Maybe Rush Limbaugh and his entire class at The Limbaugh institute for Advanced Conservative Studies should consult with Tony on the proper use of the English Language and that you don't always have to offend to get ratings and afford your Cigars.
Peace Dude!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Why is it?
In recent months and weeks it seems that the media Moguls have decided what people can say on the air and not. Here are some examples of out of control behavior that got most what they deserve.
1. Micheal Richards of Seinfeld fame got booted out of comedy for using the "N" word at a comedy club....He should have.
2. Don Imus got his final punishment for using a group of words I have no idea why our how he even came up with....
3. Now the record Moguls are starting to look at HIP HOP lyrics....
4. Today Ruben Navarrette Jr. wrote a commentary on CNN about people repeating the use of the "W" word. He also talked about using the "N" word and the "f" word.
All of this quite accurate in my opinion. The other thing I agree with completely with the Don Imus issue, it is not right for people on radio and TV to pick on people that have not entered public life. Don Imus has done some great things in fund raising and I am sure he will be back soon but he messed up. But others seem to get away with it
But here is what I don't understand. Why are all these things not appropriate but the "R" word gets thrown around like it's no big deal. The "R" word is the shortened slang version of Mental Retardation a medical diagnosis. Comedians use it all the time and everyone laughs,Rush Limbaugh has used it and nothing, people use it in the office every time they make a mistake or do anything else that they can find a reason to so they are retarded or that is so retarded. It drives me nuts.
Yes I am your average middle aged white guy but I happen to have a son that has Down syndrome which is classified as mild mental retardation and it really gets under my skin. And of late some Comedians like Chris Rock have actually said they have Down syndrome. Saturday Night Live actually had a skit referring to someones father as having Down syndrome. Now I am just one guy but I can confirm that I use to watch Saturday Night Live and I always liked Chris Rock but neither has to worry about my tuning in to any of their stuff in the future. Hey I know they don't care but I do.
Talk about a group of individuals that have not entered public life, have not done anything to be singled out. If the fine ladies of Rutgers can't defend themselves (which I think they did a fine job on their own)with out the help of the media and Rev Sharpton and Rev Jackson I wonder when the Rev Jackson and Sharpton will stand up against the "R" Word? Let's not forget that Down syndrome and Mental Retardation know no racial bounds.
Ok, I am done and am getting down off my soap box.
In the words of my wonderful niece.....PEACE DUDE!
1. Micheal Richards of Seinfeld fame got booted out of comedy for using the "N" word at a comedy club....He should have.
2. Don Imus got his final punishment for using a group of words I have no idea why our how he even came up with....
3. Now the record Moguls are starting to look at HIP HOP lyrics....
4. Today Ruben Navarrette Jr. wrote a commentary on CNN about people repeating the use of the "W" word. He also talked about using the "N" word and the "f" word.
All of this quite accurate in my opinion. The other thing I agree with completely with the Don Imus issue, it is not right for people on radio and TV to pick on people that have not entered public life. Don Imus has done some great things in fund raising and I am sure he will be back soon but he messed up. But others seem to get away with it
But here is what I don't understand. Why are all these things not appropriate but the "R" word gets thrown around like it's no big deal. The "R" word is the shortened slang version of Mental Retardation a medical diagnosis. Comedians use it all the time and everyone laughs,Rush Limbaugh has used it and nothing, people use it in the office every time they make a mistake or do anything else that they can find a reason to so they are retarded or that is so retarded. It drives me nuts.
Yes I am your average middle aged white guy but I happen to have a son that has Down syndrome which is classified as mild mental retardation and it really gets under my skin. And of late some Comedians like Chris Rock have actually said they have Down syndrome. Saturday Night Live actually had a skit referring to someones father as having Down syndrome. Now I am just one guy but I can confirm that I use to watch Saturday Night Live and I always liked Chris Rock but neither has to worry about my tuning in to any of their stuff in the future. Hey I know they don't care but I do.
Talk about a group of individuals that have not entered public life, have not done anything to be singled out. If the fine ladies of Rutgers can't defend themselves (which I think they did a fine job on their own)with out the help of the media and Rev Sharpton and Rev Jackson I wonder when the Rev Jackson and Sharpton will stand up against the "R" Word? Let's not forget that Down syndrome and Mental Retardation know no racial bounds.
Ok, I am done and am getting down off my soap box.
In the words of my wonderful niece.....PEACE DUDE!
Monday, April 23, 2007
How much is enough?
The 2008 presidential race is in full swing. Fundraising is at an unbelievable level with mega millions of dollars being rasied to wage mud slinging on a whole new level. How many millions are we going to see wasted on negative ads, so called non connected groups spending millions for the campaigns so the campaigns and the candidates can deny deny and deny one more time. What could we do with all those millions of dollars wasted on attack ads?
1. Fully fund the Individuals with Disabilites Education Act?
2. Fully fund No Child Left Behind (or just dump it)?
3. Actually help fund Medicaid waivers around the country?
4. Fix the issues at Walter Reed Hospital?
5. Give half the condidates a million dollars to go home and never speak in public again?
As for me I am paying close attention to Rudy and Barack and waiting to see if I can cast a vote for someone that will actually get in office and make things happen with out all the bickering, fighting and name calling that has become the way of politics in Washington, state and local politics.
1. Fully fund the Individuals with Disabilites Education Act?
2. Fully fund No Child Left Behind (or just dump it)?
3. Actually help fund Medicaid waivers around the country?
4. Fix the issues at Walter Reed Hospital?
5. Give half the condidates a million dollars to go home and never speak in public again?
As for me I am paying close attention to Rudy and Barack and waiting to see if I can cast a vote for someone that will actually get in office and make things happen with out all the bickering, fighting and name calling that has become the way of politics in Washington, state and local politics.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Johnny The Bagger
If you have not seen this incredible story that now has been turned into a training seminar please click the link below. Being involved in helping individuals with intellectual disabilities find employment I sometimes try to get people to think out of the box about jobs and not just shoot for the obvious ones like bagging groceries. But in this case I needed to think out of the box a little bit because John went to work bagging groceries and changed a company and is helping to change others all over the country. To see the story click here.
To see and hear more about the story and training program visit Barbara Glanz's website. I had the opportunity to hear Barbara speak a few years ago and she is an awesome individual.
I hope you enjoy.
To see and hear more about the story and training program visit Barbara Glanz's website. I had the opportunity to hear Barbara speak a few years ago and she is an awesome individual.
I hope you enjoy.
New Look
I am putting together a new look for the blog. I hope to start posting quite a bit more in the future. The blog is going to take a bit of a turn as I am going to start posting allot more about politics, disability issue and the changes that I believe the states and also the disability service industry must make to truly supply the supports and services individuals need to live, work and play independently in our communities.
See you soon.
See you soon.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Bears vs. Colts
As I sit here preparing for the Super Bowl today I spent some time reflecting on how I got to where I am today. When I was born my parents lived in Rensselaer Indiana which happened to be where the Chicago Bears held their spring training every year. There was a little pizza place in town where my parents and their other teacher friends use to hang out. During spring training this was also a favorite hang out for some of the Bears. My mom and dad always tell the stories of me being bounced on the knee of players like O'Bradovich, Butkus, Piccolo and Ditka. How could I be anything other then a Bears fan.
I spent most of my life as a huge Bear fan as most people in Indiana were at that time. I have spent many a game inside the confines of Soldier Field watching our beloved Bears. Win or lose it was a great game especially those years when the Central Division was known as "The Black and Blue Division".
There will always be the 1985 Bears and all the regular guys that made up that football team. From Jimmy Mac, Richard Dent, Danny Hampton, William Perry and everyone's favorite Bear Walter Payton. Most of us can still remember the shock when the news broke that "Sweetness" was no longer with us.
So as you read this you may have come to the conclusion that I am decked out in Blue and Orange today but I am not. I will always have a special place in my heart for the Chicago Bears but I will not be in their corner today. Why you ask?
Will my love for the Bears stopped the day my Bears fired Da Coach. Mike Ditka was and is one of my hero's in life and in sports and was exactly the kind of coach the Bears needed. Not to dwell on the fact I was livid after the firing. And decided soon after to become a Saints fan when Iron Mike found his way to New Orleans even though Nash was born in Chicago. But also at that time my family moved back from a stint in Chicago back to our home here in Indiana. My wife Jan took me to the Colts and Saints game at the RCA Dome to see Coach Ditka lead the saints. Inside the Dome that day I made the decision it was time to move my loyalty to my home town team. And I became a true blue Colts Fan. Year after year of late we have felt the disappointment of not make it to the big show but today we are there. I think it was only two weeks into the season when I made a comment at the office one day that my worst nightmare may come true this year if the Colts play the Bears in the Super Bowl. Well here we are and just a few hours away from the big game. It will be a great game in Miami today and I really think I will be happy no matter what happens in the game today.
I think there is a bit of pride no matter what happens today knowing that one of the gentlemen in sports Tony Dungy is in the Super Bowl playing against his buddy Lovie Smith. These two men have proven that it's the really the make up of your character not the color of your skin that determines your destiny and I am very proud that I get to enjoy both these men's teams in the game today. We need more Tony's and Lovie's in this world today. And I believe that up above us today the man that truly brought us this beloved Game George "Papa Bear" Halas is proud to that Lovie Smith one of the first African American coaches brought HIS team to the Super Bowl.
As for me I am wearing Colts gear from head to tow ready to root for my team but deep down inside I will be proud no matter who wins or loses today.
I spent most of my life as a huge Bear fan as most people in Indiana were at that time. I have spent many a game inside the confines of Soldier Field watching our beloved Bears. Win or lose it was a great game especially those years when the Central Division was known as "The Black and Blue Division".
There will always be the 1985 Bears and all the regular guys that made up that football team. From Jimmy Mac, Richard Dent, Danny Hampton, William Perry and everyone's favorite Bear Walter Payton. Most of us can still remember the shock when the news broke that "Sweetness" was no longer with us.
So as you read this you may have come to the conclusion that I am decked out in Blue and Orange today but I am not. I will always have a special place in my heart for the Chicago Bears but I will not be in their corner today. Why you ask?
Will my love for the Bears stopped the day my Bears fired Da Coach. Mike Ditka was and is one of my hero's in life and in sports and was exactly the kind of coach the Bears needed. Not to dwell on the fact I was livid after the firing. And decided soon after to become a Saints fan when Iron Mike found his way to New Orleans even though Nash was born in Chicago. But also at that time my family moved back from a stint in Chicago back to our home here in Indiana. My wife Jan took me to the Colts and Saints game at the RCA Dome to see Coach Ditka lead the saints. Inside the Dome that day I made the decision it was time to move my loyalty to my home town team. And I became a true blue Colts Fan. Year after year of late we have felt the disappointment of not make it to the big show but today we are there. I think it was only two weeks into the season when I made a comment at the office one day that my worst nightmare may come true this year if the Colts play the Bears in the Super Bowl. Well here we are and just a few hours away from the big game. It will be a great game in Miami today and I really think I will be happy no matter what happens in the game today.
I think there is a bit of pride no matter what happens today knowing that one of the gentlemen in sports Tony Dungy is in the Super Bowl playing against his buddy Lovie Smith. These two men have proven that it's the really the make up of your character not the color of your skin that determines your destiny and I am very proud that I get to enjoy both these men's teams in the game today. We need more Tony's and Lovie's in this world today. And I believe that up above us today the man that truly brought us this beloved Game George "Papa Bear" Halas is proud to that Lovie Smith one of the first African American coaches brought HIS team to the Super Bowl.
As for me I am wearing Colts gear from head to tow ready to root for my team but deep down inside I will be proud no matter who wins or loses today.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Bob Seger still Rocks at 61
We had the awesome opportunity to see Bob Seger in concert here in Indy Saturday night. We lucked out and snagged some tickets about 30 feet from stage right.
I can assure you that Bob Seger can still rock even if he is 61. He came out on stage in jeans, black t-shirt and black loafers and showed everyone "Rock and Roll Never Forgets" for over two hours. Sang all the great song's from the past and some from the new album and if you love Seger and have not heard the new tracks yet you must....They are awesome. The great thing about sitting so close was you could really see how much fun Bob was having entertaining the crowd that varied from teenagers to the top of the AARP crowd. What a show.....What memories it brought back of days gone by....
What more can I say...If you are thinking about catching his tour...Get your tickets now even if you have to go thru a broker and pay to much....I assure you after the show you will think that was money damn well spent.....
Gotta run now and re-load my CD player in the car with Seger, Styx and Mellencamp....Oh heck I think I will throw in a Sinatra also...
Be Cool
I can assure you that Bob Seger can still rock even if he is 61. He came out on stage in jeans, black t-shirt and black loafers and showed everyone "Rock and Roll Never Forgets" for over two hours. Sang all the great song's from the past and some from the new album and if you love Seger and have not heard the new tracks yet you must....They are awesome. The great thing about sitting so close was you could really see how much fun Bob was having entertaining the crowd that varied from teenagers to the top of the AARP crowd. What a show.....What memories it brought back of days gone by....
What more can I say...If you are thinking about catching his tour...Get your tickets now even if you have to go thru a broker and pay to much....I assure you after the show you will think that was money damn well spent.....
Gotta run now and re-load my CD player in the car with Seger, Styx and Mellencamp....Oh heck I think I will throw in a Sinatra also...
Be Cool
Monday, October 23, 2006
Update
Hey Everyone
Please see the post below but keep in mind the post I am referring to is "Open Letter" as B Strong has updated his blog since my post.
Have an awesome day.
Please see the post below but keep in mind the post I am referring to is "Open Letter" as B Strong has updated his blog since my post.
Have an awesome day.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Just want to refer you to another Blog today
Hey All
Many things to write about today but I am going to wait. If you showed up here today scroll down the right side of my blog to the links. Click on Down syndrome life and read the latest post by an awesome Dad.
Many things to write about today but I am going to wait. If you showed up here today scroll down the right side of my blog to the links. Click on Down syndrome life and read the latest post by an awesome Dad.
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