Service Dog Update

Today I planned on going to Harrisburg to meet with several dogs from Susquehanna service dogs to see which dog would best meet my needs. Unfortunately I will not be able to go.

My mom was released from the hospital this week, but is not doing well at all. So I need to go see her instead. It's a stressful situation to say the least.

I will keep you all updated on the service dog situation. Hopefully I am able to get to see the dogs soon and continue with the process.

ANSWER OF THE YEAR 2010 !!

A college teacher reminds her class of tomorrow's final exam. Now class,

I won't tolerate any excuses for you not being here tomorrow. I might

consider a nuclear attack or a serious personal injury, illness, or a

death in your immediate family, but that's it, no other excuses

whatsoever!

A smart-ass student in the back of the room raised his hand and asked,

What would you say if tomorrow I said I was suffering from complete and

utter sexual exhaustion?

The entire class is reduced to laughter and snickering. When silence was

restored, the teacher smiled knowingly at the student, shook her head and

sweetly said, Well, I guess you'd have to write the exam with your other

hand.

Pens vs Canadiens 2010 Playoffs

Last night I watched the Montréal Canadiens beat Washington 2 to 1. Which means the Pittsburgh Penguins will be playing Montréal this Friday night 7pm here at home and again on Sunday afternoon 2pm in the second round of the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs.

I'm looking forward to this round of the playoffs, it's one step closer to winning the most difficult trophy in professional sports, the Stanley Cup.... Let's Go Pens !

Keeping a connection

Keeping a connection
Here is a great article about the ability to receive phone messages through a voicemail box system for individuals who no longer can afford their own phone service. Imagine trying to get anything accomplished (obtain a job, speak with a physician, etc.) with no number for anyone to call you back.

'Boobquake' Facebook: Can Cleavage Cause Earthquakes? Women Challenge Iranian Cleric's Theory - ABC News

'Boobquake' Facebook: Can Cleavage Cause Earthquakes? Women Challenge Iranian Cleric's Theory - ABC News
Thankfully we all survived Monday's radical experiment to test the theory that cleavage causes earthquakes. It was raining here in Pittsburgh so sadly I was unable to venture out and actually experience the amount of cleavage on display...... but thankfully the Internet brought the boob explosion onto my laptop, all in the name of science of course.

Did you participate in this profound scientific experiment? I personally believe the sample size was too small, face book had over 100,000 . I would like to see upwards of 1 million.... would that qualify as 2 million individual boobs or would we count them as a set?

But seriously, can you believe these clerics are teaching such nonsense? What are your thoughts and opinions, should this be an annual event?

Personally, I'm more of a butt guy, but I could get used to an annual boobquake day.

I forget I'm old

The other evening my friend Mark was down to watch the penguin game which was fantastic by the way! And during the course of overtime we started talking about cell phones. He asked me what my first cell phone was and I said the bag phone. He looked at me kind of strange and said what's that?

So I explained that in 1992 I had a Motorola bag phone in my car and tried to explain what it looked like. I was not thinking that in 1992 he was 12 years old. Sometimes I forget I am the old man of the group, unless my friend Dave is with us.... Yes definitely old, definitely.

Today's Jersey

The Penguins really need a win tonight against the Ottawa Senators, so I thought I would breakout my special ops wounded warrior T-shirt along with my vintage Mario Lemieux jersey. Let's Go Pens !

If you have not heard about The Special Operations Foundation please go over to their site and hopefully give a donation. It's an outstanding organization and deserves every Americans support. Have a great weekend!

No Joy in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

The Penguins lost last night in triple overtime (the full 20 minute overtimes) to the Ottawa Senators 4 to 3..... it reminded me of staying up in 2000 watching five overtimes only to see the Penguins lose.

The Pens still lead the series 3 to 2 and can close out the Senators season Saturday evening in Ottawa, let's hope for a victory!

At least the Penguins loss was not as bad as the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team's loss yesterday. Can you believe... 20 to nothing ? That's right sports fans in the 124 year history of the Pittsburgh Pirates, no team has beaten them as badly as the Milwaukee Brewers did yesterday.

How can a team that has five world championships, a history of players such as Pie Traynor, Roberto Clemente, Willie Stargell sink to 17 consecutive losing seasons and a 20 to nothing loss? Every member of this organization should feel ashamed.

The Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators 2010

The Penguins can clinch the series tonight at home against Ottawa. They currently lead the series 3 to 1. My friend Mark is coming over to watch the game and have a few beverages, I'm thinking about getting some Samuel Adams Summer Ale for the occasion. Unless you have another suggestion?

I'm wearing my black Sidney Crosby jersey and looking for a hat trick from the kid tonight. And a few from Geno would be sweet as well.... Nothing is better than Playoff hockey, especially when you live in Pittsburgh Pa. Go Pens!

What a great video from a local high school, way to support the Pittsburgh Penguins! Check out 3:39 seconds into the video, I so want that snuggy.

Let's Go Pens !

Todays visitors at Pittrehab

Num Perc. Country Name
356 71.20% United States
49 9.80% Canada
28 5.60% United Kingdom
8 1.60% France
6 1.20% Brazil
5 1.00% Australia
4 0.80% Portugal
4 0.80% Italy
4 0.80% Saudi Arabia
3 0.60% Israel
3 0.60% Iran, Islamic Republic Of
3 0.60% Bulgaria
2 0.40% Japan
2 0.40% Czech Republic
2 0.40% Denmark
2 0.40% New Zealand
2 0.40% Germany
2 0.40% Hong Kong
1 0.20% Argentina
1 0.20% Indonesia
1 0.20% Estonia
1 0.20% Taiwan
1 0.20% Philippines
1 0.20% Sweden
1 0.20% Finland
1 0.20% Korea, Republic Of
1 0.20% Spain
1 0.20% Morocco
1 0.20% Mexico
1 0.20% Greece
1 0.20% India
1 0.20% Switzerland
1 0.20% Netherlands

Curb Cuts

This morning I had to get my cholesterol checked at a local blood lab. On the way I passed by the new Clearview Federal Credit Union that is being built. Workmen were preparing to install the new sidewalk.

I casually said I'm looking forward to the new Curb Cuts and sidewalk so that I do not have to travel on the street. They said we were just looking at the plans and they do not call for any Curb Cuts.......

I explained the ADA to them for about 10 minutes and they assured me Curb Cuts will be installed. How much easier is it to do things correctly the first time then to try to retrofit everything?

If it wasn't for this chance meeting I'm sure there would be no Curb Cuts installed on this new million dollar project.
Their reply:

Your e-mail to Clearview Federal Credit Union regarding the new facility was forwarded to me, to address. We are the civil engineers who prepared the site and civil plans for the project.

Like many of our valued clients, Clearview FCU is a very responsible corporate citizen, and does its utmost to ensure that it’s new facilities are 100% accessible, in most case, even exceeding the minimum ADAAG requirements.

I am pleased to inform you that the new facility was designed to provide full access from the street to the building, with the new sidewalk in front of Greenside Avenue designed with a maximum cross-slope of 2%, and a maximum running slope of 5%. In addition, the public sidewalks along Greenside are proposed to be replaced, and the driveway approaches flared and sloped to provide a smooth transition for accessibility- again, maximum cross-slope of 2%.

Because the existing grade difference at Greenside and Smith Street is so shallow, we believe no “ramp” with truncated domes is necessary; but the contractor has been instructed to make sure the new sidewalk slopes flush to the pavement at the intersection, to allow full access. The same condition exists at the end of our property on Smith Street, where it meets Robin Way.

Although the sidewalk along East Pike Street is not scheduled to be replaced at this time, the Contractor is investigating the condition of the existing accessible ramps at the crosswalks, and will be making any necessary adjustments to comply with the ADAAG. However, after reviewing the pictures and discussions with the Borough, we believe the intersection is accessible, based on the streetscape work recently done by the Borough. And, any sections of sidewalk on East Pike that are heaved, broken, or restrict accessible access, are to be repaired or replaced.

I trust this e-mail addresses your concerns, and we appreciate your interest.

Carmen A. DiDiano
Project Manager

WHEELIE cATHOLIC: Top Ten Things That Annoy People in Wheelchairs

WHEELIE cATHOLIC: Top Ten Things That Annoy People in Wheelchairs After spending 11 years in my power chair I can certainly sympathize with this top 10 list.... I would also like to add a few.
1. When speaking with a Person in a wheelchair for an extended period of time, try to get down to eye level with him or her. When I am forced to look up for an extended period of time talking with an able-bodied person it really bothers my neck.

2. If you are a waitress or waiter, do not ask the person I am with what I would like to order. I'm perfectly capable of ordering my own dinner, beverage etc. even though I use a wheelchair for mobility.

3. Please don't tell me everything happens for a reason and that God has a plan for me. I don't believe that God was sitting around one day and said "do you know who would be a good quadriplegic, Greg" let's sign him up for a power wheelchair.

4. Touching of any kind, if I don't consider you a friend respect my personal space. No shoulder touching, head rubbing leaning on my wheelchair using my foot rest as an ottoman.... respect my personal space.

5. Just treat me the same as anyone else. That being said I don't mind if you open the door for me, ask me if I need assistance or strike up a conversation with me....

TMI Tuesday

Well let's see, where to start. Friday evening I had plans to attend the Penguins playoff hockey game against the Ottawa Senators with Sean. A thunderstorm with 55 mile an hour winds came through and removed a 10 x 10 section of singles from my roof around 4 PM. So no hockey game for me......



After calling the insurance company I attempted to get emergency repairs completed. Have you ever had a roofer responsed quickly to your phone calls? Me neither.... so I went online and found Fire Dex of Pittsburgh.

They had an emergency 24 hour service and I was very impressed. They arrived at 7 PM as promised, the inspector made some notes and called the crew. He said they would be here by 8:30 PM, they arrived by 9 PM and the emergency repair was completed by 10 PM.

Now we need to deal with the insurance, get an estimate and the all elusive contractor that I can trust.... I'll let you know how the process goes over the next 4 to 6 weeks.

Service Dog Update.... I will be going out to Susquehanna Service Dogs in Harrisburg Pennsylvania later in the month to look at a few Service Dogs in Training. Hopefully I will find one I like and bond with. I'm looking for a few specific traits and abilities. It's the first part of the process and I'm looking forward to it.

Apple Ipad update.... I had the opportunity to use the Apple iPad this week using my knuckles and the Pogo stylus. It's an incredible machine but not exactly quadriplegic friendly. As an entertainment source, I think it's difficult to beat the Apple iPad. I just wish it would work with my pencil instead of the Pogo stylus. Look for some upcoming post regarding the iPad.

Pittsburgh Penguins Hockey..... the pens are currently leading the series 2 to 1 and play in Ottawa tonight at 7 PM. I am really looking forward to the game, hopefully taking a 3 to 1 lead in the series. I'm on the waiting list for additional playoff tickets and hopefully get to see another fantastic run for the Stanley Cup here in Pittsburgh. Let's Go Pens

Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company If you enjoy Starbucks coffee you can get one for free today, April 15, 2010 by bringing a reusable travel mug into any Starbucks coffee shop. They will fill the travel mug for free today !

Thursday's Thoughts

My mom was discharged from the hospital this week and is now home. She is receiving visiting nurses along with aides, all through hospice care.

I went to see her yesterday late in the day.... Which was probably a mistake because she had visitors, and a shower that day. When I arrived she was sleeping, so I sat with her for a while and watched her. I talked with my dad, then made the trip back. A little disappointed that I couldn't speak with her more.

Last night the Pittsburgh Penguins played in the first round of the 2010 playoffs against the Ottawa Senators. The Pens started off fantastic, scoring the first goal. It quickly went downhill, with the Penguins losing 5 to 4........ the next game is Friday and I have a ticket!

My friend Sean Jordan, down at Bigfellas is a season ticket holder and somehow managed to get two tickets for Friday's game. He requested accessible seating so that he could take me along... How nice is that? Hopefully the Penguins can split the series here at home.

It's going to be a beautiful day here in Pittsburgh with the temperature in the 80s, I plan on spending some time with my dog on the deck reading my Kindle. I hope you enjoy this beautiful day as well.

2010 Playoffs Go Pens

LETS GO PENS

Pittsburgh Sports Monday

What a weekend to be living in Pittsburgh, the good the bad and the truly ugly. Let's start with the good shall we?

The Pittsburgh Penguins won their final regular-season game six to five last night on Long Island and are now in the playoffs!

Sidney Crosby scored two goals and three assists, he fell 3 points shy of the NHL scoring title, but he did tie with Stamko from Tampa Bay for the Rocket Richard Trophy as the league's leading goalscorer... Way to go Crosby!

The Penguins will be playing Ottawa in the first round and I have tickets to one of the games here at home, stay tuned for that.

Okay, now for the bad. We find out today whether or not the Steelers quarterback Big Ben will be charged in the sexual assault allegations in Georgia........ the rumor is no charges will be filed, but I'm skeptical.

Also in Steelers news, Santonio Holmes will be going to the New York Jets for a fifth round draft pick..... if you bought a number 10 jersey after the Super Bowl thinking he would be around a long time... It sucks to be you. The rumor is he either failed a drug test or did not show up for it and received a four-game suspension from the NFL..... Another celebrity in rehab?

And now for the truly ugly, the Pittsburgh Pirates had the worst inning ever in a professional baseball game. The Pirates managed to lose to the Arizona Diamondbacks 15 to 6. But not before giving up 13 runs in the fourth inning setting a new standard in suckatude.....

CMU Student's 'Skinput' Turns Human Body Into Touchscreen - Plugged In News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh

CMU Student's 'Skinput' Turns Human Body Into Touchscreen - Plugged In News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh
Even though this technology will not be implemented for several years I still find it amazing.... I wonder what the implications will be for people with mobility disabilities?

Thursday Update

Thought I would let everyone know that my mom is making some progress and is now out of ICU. They've moved her to a step down room at the hospital this week. I really do appreciate all the comments, thoughts and prayers that you sent my way. It's still going to be a long road but she is making headway.

Yesterday it was 80° here in Pittsburgh and I thought I would fire up the gas grill and do some chicken for dinner. The gas grill started right up and lasted approximately 2 minutes before running out of propane....... Ugh

It was still a nice day to read my Kindle 2 on the deck and the food was prepared inside.....

The grass was cut for the first time last night. I met a worker at the local pizza shop who also does landscaping on the side. I gave Jeff a call and he came over and did a great job. It only took about 30 minutes and was well worth the $20.

I couldn't believe the mower started on the first pull after a long winter.... new gasoline is definitely the key. I'm glad the grass is cut because tomorrow it will only be in the 30s.... welcome to spring in Pittsburgh

W. Va. Mine Explosion Kills 25, Many More Missing - ABC News

W. Va. Mine Explosion Kills 25, Many More Missing - ABC News This is a terrible tragedy for the people of West Virginia. I used to travel this area quite a bit on business, and the people are just fantastic.

Hopefully these families receive all of support they need from the community.... If you would like to help please contact the American Red Cross

Free Dunkin' Donuts Turbo Coffee Sample

A free sample sent to your home, just fill out this form

Penguin Hockey

I went to the Penguin game yesterday afternoon at Mellon Arena. It may be my last game at Mellon Arena unless the Penguins call me with playoff tickets!

The game was very exciting and I had great seats behind our goal. The Pens trailed the entire game and finally tied it at 3, with one minute 14 seconds remaining sending the game into overtime, welcome back Gonchar !

It would not be long before the Penguins put the puck through the five hole to score the game-winning goal, giving the fans a reason to celebrate.

The only problem of the afternoon was in the parking lot. I specifically parked on the end, with no parking stripes beside my door (wheelchair lift) don't you know someone pulled into the stripes blocking my van lift.....

I thought about ramming my wheelchair into their headlights, tail lights etc. but decided against it. I was thinking about Al Pacino in scent of a woman, " if I was half the man I used to be I would take a flamethrower to this place " It just really made me mad.

New Site Bigfellaspizza-wings.com

I would like you all to check out my favorite place to watch the Penguins play and to get the best pizza and wings in the area, at least in my opinion. www.bigfellaspizza-wings.com

The owner also recently agreed to pay for all the parking in Canonsburg Pa the entire year. Here is a guy who thinks about the community and is trying to make a difference.

He also noticed I had some trouble getting inside, and is installing an automated door...... check out his site and leave him a comment please!

He is spending $53,000 on parking, lets get him 53000 comments from around the world... get out and blog!

Court ruling on Marine dad is shameful - CNN.com

Court ruling on Marine dad is shameful - CNN.com Have you been following this?

The Snyder family has been ordered by the court to pay $16,000 to pay the legal expenses of Fred Phelps and his followers at Westboro Baptist Church....

These religious zealots protest at military funerals and rage against homosexuality....

My first experience with Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church was when I lived in Topeka Kansas in the late 90s. I would often see them protesting with signs so offensive I will not even discuss them. In my opinion, this is one of the worst groups in America.

They spew hatred under the flag of free speech. The same flag that Lance Cpl. Snyder died protecting.... this group physically sickens me. Hopefully the United States Supreme Court will reverse this decision and find for the Snyder family setting a precedent to protect all military families from this hate group.

Thank You

I really appreciate all the comments, thoughts and prayers regarding my mom.

Yesterday I was able to visit her again but she was heavily sedated. It can't be easy at 77 to recover from this type of surgery, but we are all hoping for the best. Thanks again everyone.