This story takes place in Green Bay, Wisconsin and has nothing to do with the Packers. I've just always wanted to write those seven words.
I was talking to my mother tonight and she told me about young Kennedy Corpus who skipped school on the last day of fourth grade to go to an event with her father, John.
I hadn't heard of the story, so I decided to see just what happened. It turns out, she got a note for her teacher that was a once-in-a-lifetime event for ten-year-old Kennedy.
Since I rarely watch the main stream media any more, I get most of my news from the Internet and discussions with friends and family. Yes, Google is my friend. This is a precious video and story from the Green Bay Press-Gazette on June 11th. To read the story and watch the video, click here.
I'm guessing young Kennedy had a hard time sleeping that night.
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Friday, June 5, 2009
National Sports Center For The Disabled
In 1980, I had the opportunity to go downhill skiing in Winter Park, Colorado at an organization called the National Sports Center for the Disabled. Little did I know just how large and successful it would become. Now, almost thirty years later, they are an incredible organization with year-round activities in Winter Park. They also have offices in Denver and Kansas City.
You can learn all about their summer and winter programs by going to their website. Just click here.
Their website reads, "The NSCD offers a variety of exciting winter adventures, including alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, Nordic hut trips, snowshoeing, and ski racing ... The NSCD offers a variety of exciting summer adventures, including NSCD Sports Camps, rafting, kayaking, canoeing, special camps, horse pack trips, therapeutic horseback riding, mountain biking, overnight river trips, fishing, camping, and rock climbing."
I love to see how programs and organizations for people with disabilities that were started around the time I had my accident, are prospering and helping people with many different issues. It's great to see people with disabilities being offered new and exciting opportunities.
I think this is a FANTASTIC picture:
If you have a disability, check out their website, see what's available, what activity may interest you and take advantage of their programs. Or, if you are able-bodied and you know someone with a disability, send him or her the NSCD's website.
There is another similar organization right here in Minneapolis doing many of the same activities and then some. They have trips that go all over the world! Check out Wilderness Inquiry and see what they are doing. Just click here.
I welcome your comments. Especially, if you have experience with either organization.
Later,
Mike
You can learn all about their summer and winter programs by going to their website. Just click here.
Their website reads, "The NSCD offers a variety of exciting winter adventures, including alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, Nordic hut trips, snowshoeing, and ski racing ... The NSCD offers a variety of exciting summer adventures, including NSCD Sports Camps, rafting, kayaking, canoeing, special camps, horse pack trips, therapeutic horseback riding, mountain biking, overnight river trips, fishing, camping, and rock climbing."
I love to see how programs and organizations for people with disabilities that were started around the time I had my accident, are prospering and helping people with many different issues. It's great to see people with disabilities being offered new and exciting opportunities.
I think this is a FANTASTIC picture:
If you have a disability, check out their website, see what's available, what activity may interest you and take advantage of their programs. Or, if you are able-bodied and you know someone with a disability, send him or her the NSCD's website.
There is another similar organization right here in Minneapolis doing many of the same activities and then some. They have trips that go all over the world! Check out Wilderness Inquiry and see what they are doing. Just click here.
I welcome your comments. Especially, if you have experience with either organization.
Later,
Mike
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Walk On D.J.
We all have challenges, some seem greater than others. For D.J. Gregory, walking is very difficult. So, what did he decide to do? Why not walk every hole, every day of every PGA golf tournament in 2008?
A friend sent me this video and I did a little research about his quest. I just Googled "D.J. Gregory golf" and there was a ton of information about his walk that left a trail. It's an incredibly inspiring story about someone with a disability who set a goal for himself and then went out and accomplished it!
D.J. was thirty last summer and walked in 44 tournaments in 45 weeks. That's 180 rounds, 3256 holes and more than 900 miles on the eleven-month tour! None of the professional golfers did what D.J. did! None of them golfed in every tournament. It's a great video. I encourage you to watch it and see if you agree with me. You can view it by clicking here.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
A friend sent me this video and I did a little research about his quest. I just Googled "D.J. Gregory golf" and there was a ton of information about his walk that left a trail. It's an incredibly inspiring story about someone with a disability who set a goal for himself and then went out and accomplished it!
D.J. was thirty last summer and walked in 44 tournaments in 45 weeks. That's 180 rounds, 3256 holes and more than 900 miles on the eleven-month tour! None of the professional golfers did what D.J. did! None of them golfed in every tournament. It's a great video. I encourage you to watch it and see if you agree with me. You can view it by clicking here.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Friends Are Important
According to an article in the NYTimes.com on April 20, 2009, our friendships are incredibly important in our overall health. This quote comes directly from the article you can read in its entirety by clicking here.
“In general, the role of friendship in our lives isn’t terribly well appreciated,” said Rebecca G. Adams, a professor of sociology at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. “There is just scads of stuff on families and marriage, but very little on friendship. It baffles me. Friendship has a bigger impact on our psychological well-being than family relationships.”
Personally, I have friends from nearly every stage of my life, from as far back as elementary school, junior and senior high school, to college in Worthington, UC Berkeley and the University of Minnesota. I don't always keep in touch with some of them as much as I'd like, but from past experience, I know I can reach out to many of them with a phone call or an email, and we can pick up like we have never been apart.
With living in eight towns and going to school in five different districts before I was fourteen, I made a lot of friends at an early age. They come from many different backgrounds and I can count many people as friends, some going back more than forty-five years!
I have also made many friends with people from all areas of my adult life. I'm happy to say each one of those relationships has helped me to shape who I am. To site a quick example of that, in my recent hospitalization, I had visitors, emails and phone calls from friends from many stages of my life.
Please feel free to comment on how your friends have affected your life. I look forward to reading them.
Later,
Mike
“In general, the role of friendship in our lives isn’t terribly well appreciated,” said Rebecca G. Adams, a professor of sociology at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. “There is just scads of stuff on families and marriage, but very little on friendship. It baffles me. Friendship has a bigger impact on our psychological well-being than family relationships.”
Personally, I have friends from nearly every stage of my life, from as far back as elementary school, junior and senior high school, to college in Worthington, UC Berkeley and the University of Minnesota. I don't always keep in touch with some of them as much as I'd like, but from past experience, I know I can reach out to many of them with a phone call or an email, and we can pick up like we have never been apart.
With living in eight towns and going to school in five different districts before I was fourteen, I made a lot of friends at an early age. They come from many different backgrounds and I can count many people as friends, some going back more than forty-five years!
I have also made many friends with people from all areas of my adult life. I'm happy to say each one of those relationships has helped me to shape who I am. To site a quick example of that, in my recent hospitalization, I had visitors, emails and phone calls from friends from many stages of my life.
Please feel free to comment on how your friends have affected your life. I look forward to reading them.
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Kidney Stones And Children
In the many sleepless hours I spent in the hospital, I spent a lot of time doing research for this blog. One of the sites I spent perusing was the New York Times online. I know it's a credible source and a tremendous wealth of information.
I came across this article and want to share it with you. According to this article by Laurie Tarkan from October 28, 2008, there is a tremendous rise in kidney stones in children as young as five and six years old! You can read the entire article by clicking here.
She gives some incredible numbers and reasons for this dramatic rise in a disorder once considered a problem for middle-aged adults.
One of the most disturbing reasons she sites for this problem is what is causing these kidney stones. She writes, it's food and drinks with high salt content. Drinks like Gatorade, and salty foods like sandwich meats, chips, canned soups, packaged meals and french fries.
One of the major reasons is the fact children are not drinking enough water. These two paragraphs came directly from the article:
Children also tend not to drink enough water. “They don’t want to go to the bathroom at school; they don’t have time, so they drink less,” said Dr. Alicia Neu, medical director of pediatric nephrology and the pediatric stone clinic at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. “Instead, they are likely to drink only once they’re thirsty — but that may be too little, too late, especially for children who play sports or are just active.”
“Drinking more water is the most important step in the prevention of kidney stones,” Dr. Neu said.
I seem to have written a few posts on food lately. I'm not entirely sure why. Maybe I'll go have a sandwich and a Gatorade and think about it. (He said sarcastically.)
Your comments are always welcome.
Later,
Mike
I came across this article and want to share it with you. According to this article by Laurie Tarkan from October 28, 2008, there is a tremendous rise in kidney stones in children as young as five and six years old! You can read the entire article by clicking here.
She gives some incredible numbers and reasons for this dramatic rise in a disorder once considered a problem for middle-aged adults.
One of the most disturbing reasons she sites for this problem is what is causing these kidney stones. She writes, it's food and drinks with high salt content. Drinks like Gatorade, and salty foods like sandwich meats, chips, canned soups, packaged meals and french fries.
One of the major reasons is the fact children are not drinking enough water. These two paragraphs came directly from the article:
Children also tend not to drink enough water. “They don’t want to go to the bathroom at school; they don’t have time, so they drink less,” said Dr. Alicia Neu, medical director of pediatric nephrology and the pediatric stone clinic at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. “Instead, they are likely to drink only once they’re thirsty — but that may be too little, too late, especially for children who play sports or are just active.”
“Drinking more water is the most important step in the prevention of kidney stones,” Dr. Neu said.
I seem to have written a few posts on food lately. I'm not entirely sure why. Maybe I'll go have a sandwich and a Gatorade and think about it. (He said sarcastically.)
Your comments are always welcome.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Morton Cure Paralysis Fund
I have been asked to give the closing speech at the Third Annual Research Symposium for the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund this Sunday afternoon. The keynote speaker is Dr. Anthony Windebank of the Mayo Clinic. He is the director of the Neural Regeneration Program where his research group is focusing on restoring function to damaged spinal cords.
I am excited to hear his message. It promises to be very informative. Who knows, it may lead to another post. You can read all about MCPF and their upcoming symposium by clicking here.
I introduced you to MCPF in my May 3, 2008 post when I quoted them regarding asking questions about spinal cord injuries (SCI). The entire MCPF website is full of good information touching on everything from the basic physiological facts of a spinal cord injury to the latest articles on SCI research.
Last year's symposium was very informative when Dr. Wise Young from Rutgers University told us about his spinal cord research in New Jersey and China where he is working with humans in clinical trials. You can watch the entire symposium including Dr. Young's presentation by clicking here.
Check out the links above and feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
I am excited to hear his message. It promises to be very informative. Who knows, it may lead to another post. You can read all about MCPF and their upcoming symposium by clicking here.I introduced you to MCPF in my May 3, 2008 post when I quoted them regarding asking questions about spinal cord injuries (SCI). The entire MCPF website is full of good information touching on everything from the basic physiological facts of a spinal cord injury to the latest articles on SCI research.
Last year's symposium was very informative when Dr. Wise Young from Rutgers University told us about his spinal cord research in New Jersey and China where he is working with humans in clinical trials. You can watch the entire symposium including Dr. Young's presentation by clicking here.
Check out the links above and feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Friday, May 8, 2009
Wanda Sykes View Of The Bailout
I finally got out of the hospital on Monday, and I'm slowly getting my strength and stamina back. 48 days in a hospital tends to take it out of me. The older I get, the longer it takes to recover from a setback. I'm sure some of you can relate. :-)
I'm feeling better and decided it's time to put up a new post. I thought I would start with showing you a humorous video with Wanda Sykes talking to Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Agree with her or not, she delivers her routine with great comic genius. Check it out by clicking here. My favorite line is, "I want receipts, dammit!"
I will get serious again with my next post. It's good to be back in the saddle.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
I'm feeling better and decided it's time to put up a new post. I thought I would start with showing you a humorous video with Wanda Sykes talking to Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Agree with her or not, she delivers her routine with great comic genius. Check it out by clicking here. My favorite line is, "I want receipts, dammit!"
I will get serious again with my next post. It's good to be back in the saddle.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
What Did You Do For Spring Break?
Me? You ask. On St. Patrick's Day, I decided to take a little vacation of my own in Abbott Northwestern Hospital, (at the behest of the emergency room doctor), and low and behold, six weeks later — I'm still here! Forty-two days and counting. I'm finally over the worst of it and am on the upswing. I need to be strong enough, and have my blood pressure stabilized to the point where I can sit up for at least four hours without having it go down to dangerous levels and I pass out. I'm hoping that will happen by the end of the week.
I'm also getting very tired of hospital food!
It's only been a few days since I've been able to type and even this post is slow and tedious. I've been at it for more than half an hour, and, "I'm not done yet." Like how I worked my quote in there? I still need a little help with some of the keystroke combinations which Mom has helped me with.
Yes, she's been up here every day helping me and teaching new nurses how to do my cares. I don't know where I'd be without her.
I've had a lot of time to do research for future posts; unfortunately, the hospital servers have so many sites blocked, I can't watch YouTube videos, read my Facebook page or even listen to my brother-in-law Jeff Farias' radio show. If you like listening to a good, intelligent, Ivy League-educated, progressive voice, click here to hear what's on The Jeff Farias Show today.
I NEED to get out of here!
Here's a parting shot to show you why I'll never grow a beard or a goatee:
That was only two weeks growth. I had to take a few pictures to make sure my web cam was working properly. I didn't recognize the old guy with the white beard! I don't think even Photoshop could do anything with this picture.
No comments required about the photo.
Later,
Mike
I'm also getting very tired of hospital food!
It's only been a few days since I've been able to type and even this post is slow and tedious. I've been at it for more than half an hour, and, "I'm not done yet." Like how I worked my quote in there? I still need a little help with some of the keystroke combinations which Mom has helped me with.
Yes, she's been up here every day helping me and teaching new nurses how to do my cares. I don't know where I'd be without her.
I've had a lot of time to do research for future posts; unfortunately, the hospital servers have so many sites blocked, I can't watch YouTube videos, read my Facebook page or even listen to my brother-in-law Jeff Farias' radio show. If you like listening to a good, intelligent, Ivy League-educated, progressive voice, click here to hear what's on The Jeff Farias Show today.
I NEED to get out of here!
Here's a parting shot to show you why I'll never grow a beard or a goatee:
That was only two weeks growth. I had to take a few pictures to make sure my web cam was working properly. I didn't recognize the old guy with the white beard! I don't think even Photoshop could do anything with this picture.
No comments required about the photo.
Later,
Mike
Monday, March 16, 2009
Alice's Restaurant
If you're a Baby Boomer like me, you probably remember Arlo Guthrie's 1967 song Alice's Restaurant. The Alice in the song was Alice Brock, a restaurant owner in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. If you're not a Boomer, and you want to learn a little about a fun, satirical piece of American music history, click here to see what Wikipedia has to say about Alice, Arlo Guthrie and the song.
But, Alice Brock is not the Alice I want to introduce you to today. As my regular readers know, I'm a big fan of 60 Minutes. Last night they ran a story on Alice Waters, and her World-famous, French bistro, Chez Panisse, which she started in 1971 in Berkeley, California.
In stark contrast to my February 17th post about the Heart Attack Grill in Chandler, Arizona, which proudly serves artery-clogging burgers that "are worth dying for," Alice only sells locally-grown, organic food that is healthy for us. There's a great story on the CBS News website you can read by clicking here, or you can view the piece with corespondent Lesley Stahl here:
It is very refreshing to see such a positive story about how one woman is making a huge difference in her community and especially in a Berkeley middle school.
What could we do about the obesity problem we have if every middle school in the country were to offer the opportunity to learn about growing organic food, eating healthy and the effects it can have on their students' health?
To look on the other side of the coin, there are many areas of the country that can't grow their own food year-round. Nor, do they have the time to do so, or cook "slow food" as the piece calls it. It is a dilemma with no easy solutions.
As always, I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
But, Alice Brock is not the Alice I want to introduce you to today. As my regular readers know, I'm a big fan of 60 Minutes. Last night they ran a story on Alice Waters, and her World-famous, French bistro, Chez Panisse, which she started in 1971 in Berkeley, California.
In stark contrast to my February 17th post about the Heart Attack Grill in Chandler, Arizona, which proudly serves artery-clogging burgers that "are worth dying for," Alice only sells locally-grown, organic food that is healthy for us. There's a great story on the CBS News website you can read by clicking here, or you can view the piece with corespondent Lesley Stahl here:
It is very refreshing to see such a positive story about how one woman is making a huge difference in her community and especially in a Berkeley middle school.
What could we do about the obesity problem we have if every middle school in the country were to offer the opportunity to learn about growing organic food, eating healthy and the effects it can have on their students' health?
To look on the other side of the coin, there are many areas of the country that can't grow their own food year-round. Nor, do they have the time to do so, or cook "slow food" as the piece calls it. It is a dilemma with no easy solutions.
As always, I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Monday, March 9, 2009
Obama Did It!
If you haven't already heard, President Obama overturned the ban on government-funding for embryonic stem cell research today by signing an executive order in the White House. I couldn't be more thrilled!
The thought of what lies ahead for this exciting science is truly mind boggling! You can read the entire article from CNN.com by clicking here.
Here is a video of his statement just before he signed the order:
A direct quote from the article:
I could write a lot more about my feelings on this subject, and how it will potentially benefit not only me, and literally millions of people; but instead, I think I'll save it for a chapter in my book. After all, that is one of the reasons I'm doing this blog. Remember, I'm not done yet!
Have I said yet how thrilled I am about this?
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
The thought of what lies ahead for this exciting science is truly mind boggling! You can read the entire article from CNN.com by clicking here.
Here is a video of his statement just before he signed the order:
A direct quote from the article:
"In recent years, when it comes to stem cell research, rather than furthering discovery, our government has forced what I believe is a false choice between sound science and moral values," Obama said at the White House.
"In this case, I believe the two are not inconsistent. As a person of faith, I believe we are called to care for each other and work to ease human suffering. I believe we have been given the capacity and will to pursue this research — and the humanity and conscience to do so responsibly."
Former first lady Nancy Reagan also issued a statement Monday thanking Obama for lifting the ban.
"These new rules will now make it possible for scientists to move forward," Reagan said. "Countless people, suffering from many different diseases, stand to benefit from the answers stem cell research can provide. We owe it to ourselves and to our children to do everything in our power to find cures for these diseases."
President Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease after leaving office — an affliction that many scientists say eventually may be cured with the help of embryonic stem cell research.
I'm guessing the spirits of both Christopher Reeve and Ronald Reagan are smiling today.I could write a lot more about my feelings on this subject, and how it will potentially benefit not only me, and literally millions of people; but instead, I think I'll save it for a chapter in my book. After all, that is one of the reasons I'm doing this blog. Remember, I'm not done yet!
Have I said yet how thrilled I am about this?
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Nature Is Truly Amazing!
A few days ago, my aunt sent me these pictures and a story behind them. I decided to share them with you because I doubt many of us will ever see something like them again.
According to snopes.com, the exact location of this siting is not clear. Wherever these were taken, they show us an amazing feat of Mother Nature. Based on the tree line and the topography in these pictures, they were probably taken in Canada or Alaska. One site listed the date as 2006. As you can well imagine, an albino moose is VERY rare. That's right, I'm going to show you an albino moose!
But before I do, Dale Toweill, of the Idaho Fish and Game Commission, states, "Albino moose have been showing up near Soda Spring in Southeastern Idaho for several years." He is the trophy species manager for the fish and game commission. Normally, only 1 in 100,000 moose have the albino trait, which is recessive. But the gene appears to run in the herd in Southeastern Idaho, where Toweill theorizes the probability of an albino moose may be 1 in 10,000.
Again, according to snopes.com, these moose are not actually albino, but rather white-colored. You can read the entire story and their explanation by clicking here.
I did a quick Google search on albino moose and came up with a good deal of information on both the albino moose and white-colored moose. I found it fascinating. One fact I especially liked was sightings of albino moose go back for centuries. Some Native American tribes regard these rare animals as spiritual and mystical or even a re-incarnation of a tribe member.
Look at these photos:
Now, if the odds of actually seeing an albino moose are extraordinary based on the probabilities I mentioned above, how astronomical are the odds of seeing two of them at the same time?
To quote the story that came with these pictures, "Once in a while there is an opportunity to take in a piece of nature you may never see. In these days of unrest and turmoil, it is great to see Mother Nature can still produce some wondrous beauty."
I couldn't agree more.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
P.S. A regular reader saw this post the other day and sent me this note and incredible picture:
According to snopes.com, the exact location of this siting is not clear. Wherever these were taken, they show us an amazing feat of Mother Nature. Based on the tree line and the topography in these pictures, they were probably taken in Canada or Alaska. One site listed the date as 2006. As you can well imagine, an albino moose is VERY rare. That's right, I'm going to show you an albino moose!
But before I do, Dale Toweill, of the Idaho Fish and Game Commission, states, "Albino moose have been showing up near Soda Spring in Southeastern Idaho for several years." He is the trophy species manager for the fish and game commission. Normally, only 1 in 100,000 moose have the albino trait, which is recessive. But the gene appears to run in the herd in Southeastern Idaho, where Toweill theorizes the probability of an albino moose may be 1 in 10,000.
Again, according to snopes.com, these moose are not actually albino, but rather white-colored. You can read the entire story and their explanation by clicking here.
I did a quick Google search on albino moose and came up with a good deal of information on both the albino moose and white-colored moose. I found it fascinating. One fact I especially liked was sightings of albino moose go back for centuries. Some Native American tribes regard these rare animals as spiritual and mystical or even a re-incarnation of a tribe member.
Look at these photos:
Now, if the odds of actually seeing an albino moose are extraordinary based on the probabilities I mentioned above, how astronomical are the odds of seeing two of them at the same time?
To quote the story that came with these pictures, "Once in a while there is an opportunity to take in a piece of nature you may never see. In these days of unrest and turmoil, it is great to see Mother Nature can still produce some wondrous beauty."
I couldn't agree more.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
P.S. A regular reader saw this post the other day and sent me this note and incredible picture:
I just saw your post about the moose, those are great pictures. On a similar note, our friends who live across the river from Wabasha have seen many albino deer. It's not legal to shoot them in Wisconsin. A few years ago we had our motion camera at their place and got several pictures of this one.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
How's Your News?
A friend introduced me to How's Your News? last week and I have to say, "I'm hooked!"
How's Your News? started at a summer camp for adults with disabilities in Massachusetts in 1998, and has steadily grown to a point where they debuted their own show on MTV on Sunday, February 8th at 10:30 PM Eastern. You can read their story by clicking here.
You can view their trailer here:
Trailer for "How's Your News?" Series! from How's Your News? on Vimeo.
I think it's fantastic these young people have found something they like doing, are good at and someone found them to help them pursue their passion.
They are interviewing actors, politicians and ordinary people on the street. They are having fun, loving their jobs, traveling, meeting lots of people and experiencing things they never would have otherwise. Can you say that about your job?
Read the background page, watch some of their videos and watch their confidence rise with every interview.
Let me know what you think.
Later,
Mike
How's Your News? started at a summer camp for adults with disabilities in Massachusetts in 1998, and has steadily grown to a point where they debuted their own show on MTV on Sunday, February 8th at 10:30 PM Eastern. You can read their story by clicking here.
You can view their trailer here:
Trailer for "How's Your News?" Series! from How's Your News? on Vimeo.
I think it's fantastic these young people have found something they like doing, are good at and someone found them to help them pursue their passion.
They are interviewing actors, politicians and ordinary people on the street. They are having fun, loving their jobs, traveling, meeting lots of people and experiencing things they never would have otherwise. Can you say that about your job?
Read the background page, watch some of their videos and watch their confidence rise with every interview.
Let me know what you think.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The Heart Attack Grill
Once again, a friend sent me an entertaining, humorous link to a brutally honest video from the CBS Morning News on November 25, 2008.
Everywhere we go these days, we are warned of the dangers of the food we eat. Many restaurants even put the calorie count on their menu items. Not the Heart Attack Grill in Chandler, Arizona. They are right up front with their menu items. They even label their burgers with names like The Quadruple Bypass Burger for $12.95, and the All-you-can-eat Flatliner Fries Bar.
Watch CBS Videos Online
With restaurants like this, we wonder why we have an obesity problem in the United States! This is obviously over the top with outlandish, artery-clogging, nutrient-deficient food and enough calories in one meal to feed even Michael Phelps for a day; the point is very clear, we overeat at an alarmingly high rate today.
Joel Fuhrman, M.D. wrote this article in 2003, and has some incredible facts about the state of Americans' health. You can read it by clicking here. I was particularly disturbed by the second paragraph which starts out, "The number one health problem in the United States is obesity, and if the current trend continues, by the year 2230 all adults in the United States will be obese. ... "
With our preponderance to overeat and under exercise, we have a real problem in this country.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Everywhere we go these days, we are warned of the dangers of the food we eat. Many restaurants even put the calorie count on their menu items. Not the Heart Attack Grill in Chandler, Arizona. They are right up front with their menu items. They even label their burgers with names like The Quadruple Bypass Burger for $12.95, and the All-you-can-eat Flatliner Fries Bar.
Watch CBS Videos Online
With restaurants like this, we wonder why we have an obesity problem in the United States! This is obviously over the top with outlandish, artery-clogging, nutrient-deficient food and enough calories in one meal to feed even Michael Phelps for a day; the point is very clear, we overeat at an alarmingly high rate today.
Joel Fuhrman, M.D. wrote this article in 2003, and has some incredible facts about the state of Americans' health. You can read it by clicking here. I was particularly disturbed by the second paragraph which starts out, "The number one health problem in the United States is obesity, and if the current trend continues, by the year 2230 all adults in the United States will be obese. ... "
With our preponderance to overeat and under exercise, we have a real problem in this country.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Pink Shirt Day Is Coming
In my January 17, 2008 post, I discussed bullying in schools, how pervasive it is and some of the damaging effects it can have on the victims. You can read it by clicking here.
Today, I want to introduce you to Pink Shirt Day 2009. In an effort to help raise the awareness of bullying in our schools, workplaces, homes and over the Internet, Christy Clark is promoting the idea of Pink Shirt Day on her radio show and through their website. It will be held on February 25th and you can learn more about the day, and how to take part in the event by clicking here.
The cool thing about Pink Shirt Day is it was started by two high school students who had an idea on how to stop some bullies from bullying a ninth grade student. David Sheppard and Travis Price have shown us once again how two people with a good idea can make a big difference.
I encourage you to read about it and see if you want to do something in your school or workplace on February 25th.
I'd be curious to know what you decide. If you have any ideas about how to participate, please feel free to share them.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Today, I want to introduce you to Pink Shirt Day 2009. In an effort to help raise the awareness of bullying in our schools, workplaces, homes and over the Internet, Christy Clark is promoting the idea of Pink Shirt Day on her radio show and through their website. It will be held on February 25th and you can learn more about the day, and how to take part in the event by clicking here.
The cool thing about Pink Shirt Day is it was started by two high school students who had an idea on how to stop some bullies from bullying a ninth grade student. David Sheppard and Travis Price have shown us once again how two people with a good idea can make a big difference.
I encourage you to read about it and see if you want to do something in your school or workplace on February 25th.
I'd be curious to know what you decide. If you have any ideas about how to participate, please feel free to share them.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Scary Report
When you were in school, were you ever tied down, restrained in any way, or put in a secluded room for hours? Neither was I. According to this report by the National Disability Rights Network, it's a fairly common practice to deal with students with special needs.
A very detailed report published just last month, starts out, "Whenever we open a newspaper, turn on the television, or go on the Internet these days, we hear about another child dying or being injured in school while being restrained or secluded. Some may think these are isolated incidents, but, when Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agencies across this country report that school children have been killed, confined, tied up, pinned down, and battered, this is clearly more than an isolated issue — it is one of national concern."
The report chronicles students who have been strapped to chairs — even wheelchairs, held down by adults, grabbed, dragged and left in secluded rooms, handcuffed, locked in closets, and more. They identify extreme cases in virtually every state.
This little, seven-year-old Wisconsin girl died while being restrained and secluded.
You can read the entire report by clicking here. It's a 60-page pdf, and I will confess, I haven't read the whole thing. But I read enough to know it's worth sharing.
Here is a seclusion room in one classroom:
Tell me what you think.
Later,
Mike
A very detailed report published just last month, starts out, "Whenever we open a newspaper, turn on the television, or go on the Internet these days, we hear about another child dying or being injured in school while being restrained or secluded. Some may think these are isolated incidents, but, when Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agencies across this country report that school children have been killed, confined, tied up, pinned down, and battered, this is clearly more than an isolated issue — it is one of national concern."
The report chronicles students who have been strapped to chairs — even wheelchairs, held down by adults, grabbed, dragged and left in secluded rooms, handcuffed, locked in closets, and more. They identify extreme cases in virtually every state.
This little, seven-year-old Wisconsin girl died while being restrained and secluded.
You can read the entire report by clicking here. It's a 60-page pdf, and I will confess, I haven't read the whole thing. But I read enough to know it's worth sharing.
Here is a seclusion room in one classroom:
Tell me what you think.
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Amazing Photograph!
A friend just sent me this photograph. This is absolutely the BEST in “high definition” ... Zoom in (double-click an area) ... and watch it focus. Then zoom some more ... and wait for it to focus. Or, you can use the focusing tool on the upper left side of the screen to zoom in and out, and scan across the photo with the directional arrows at the top left of the page. Or, just grab it somewhere on the photo and move your mouse across the page.
What a surveillance tool this is!
This picture was taken with a robotic camera and weighs in at 1,474 megapixel. (295 times the standard 5 megapixel camera). It was a Canon that pulled together over 200 individual shots. Each zoom in takes a second to focus ... and then you can see some amazing reactions. You can even read the Everest & Jennings logo on Dick Cheney's wheelchair!
I'll give you bonus points if you find Yo-Yo Ma taking a picture with his iPhone.
http://gigapan.org/viewGigapanFullscreen.php?auth=033ef14483ee899496648c2b4b06233c
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
What a surveillance tool this is!
This picture was taken with a robotic camera and weighs in at 1,474 megapixel. (295 times the standard 5 megapixel camera). It was a Canon that pulled together over 200 individual shots. Each zoom in takes a second to focus ... and then you can see some amazing reactions. You can even read the Everest & Jennings logo on Dick Cheney's wheelchair!
I'll give you bonus points if you find Yo-Yo Ma taking a picture with his iPhone.
http://gigapan.org/viewGigapanFullscreen.php?auth=033ef14483ee899496648c2b4b06233c
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Stem Cell Research Is Finally Going To Begin
It's finally going to happen — the first human experimentation with stem cells and human beings! This is VERY exciting news for not only yours truly, but for hundreds of thousands of spinal cord injured people and the people who know and care about us!
According to this article on Disaboom.com, Dr. Glen House, co-founder of Disaboom.com and himself a paraplegic, “This is the news we’ve been waiting for, and the world will be watching with great anticipation and hope. We may someday look back on this study as the genesis of a cure for not just SCI, but also for other types of neurological impairments."
You can read the entire article by clicking here.
Needless to say, I am pumped! I have been waiting a long time to see the first trials and am very anxious to see what becomes of this initial experiment.
I'll keep you informed.
By the way, this is an incredibly informative website full of wonderful information. If you are interested in disability issues and have a little time, I encourage you to check out this site. It will be time well spent.
Please feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
According to this article on Disaboom.com, Dr. Glen House, co-founder of Disaboom.com and himself a paraplegic, “This is the news we’ve been waiting for, and the world will be watching with great anticipation and hope. We may someday look back on this study as the genesis of a cure for not just SCI, but also for other types of neurological impairments."
You can read the entire article by clicking here.
Needless to say, I am pumped! I have been waiting a long time to see the first trials and am very anxious to see what becomes of this initial experiment.
I'll keep you informed.
By the way, this is an incredibly informative website full of wonderful information. If you are interested in disability issues and have a little time, I encourage you to check out this site. It will be time well spent.
Please feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Best Friends
A friend just sent me this video and I think it's worth sharing. It's an extraordinary piece about best friends. The best friends just happen to be a dog and an elephant.
Steve Hartman always does these wonderful stories on the CBS Evening News called Assignment America, and this is no exception. There is one scene that shows how trusting Bella is of Tara I find absolutely amazing!
Check it out and see what you think:
Watch CBS Videos Online
There's a lesson to be learned here. Wouldn't it be wonderful if humans could be as accepting, understanding and tolerant of our differences?
Speaking of tolerant, be forewarned, you have to sit through a commercial before the video plays. It seems there are fewer and fewer places we can go to avoid commercials. I guess they have to get to us somehow.
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Steve Hartman always does these wonderful stories on the CBS Evening News called Assignment America, and this is no exception. There is one scene that shows how trusting Bella is of Tara I find absolutely amazing!
Check it out and see what you think:
Watch CBS Videos Online
There's a lesson to be learned here. Wouldn't it be wonderful if humans could be as accepting, understanding and tolerant of our differences?
Speaking of tolerant, be forewarned, you have to sit through a commercial before the video plays. It seems there are fewer and fewer places we can go to avoid commercials. I guess they have to get to us somehow.
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Thought Identification
If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know I cover a wide range of subjects and I am a firm believer in lifelong learning and change. You also know I like the subjects 60 Minutes addresses and have posted pieces from them on a number of occasions. Well, they had another exceptional piece last Sunday on a potentially very controversial subject neuroscientist Marcel Just refers to as "thought identification" which is basically what I discussed in my November 2, 2008 post entitled Imagine.
The difference in this segment and the Imagine piece is the application of the new technology. Dr. Just is just one scientist who is working on the technology that will allow us to determine what a person is thinking. Yes, you read it right. They are working on the technology to be able to tell what someone is thinking and it is advancing at a "stunning rate."
The implication for the new technology is incredible when we think about its application in the field of criminal investigations, getting information from potential terrorists, talking to employees about something in a business setting, getting information from your teenager, ... and the list goes on and on.
The application I find absolutely intriguing is the possible uses it has for people with disabilities, especially someone who cannot talk because of an injury, birth defect, disease, or any one of a number of disabling conditions. The possibilities are endless and the following video didn't even address disabilities.
One thing I found very interesting was the Comments section on the CBS News website following the transcript and video. There are obviously differing opinions about the entire idea of what some people might do with the technology. You can read the comments by clicking here.
If you haven't already seen the piece, I encourage you to watch Lesley Stahl's January 4th piece here:
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
The difference in this segment and the Imagine piece is the application of the new technology. Dr. Just is just one scientist who is working on the technology that will allow us to determine what a person is thinking. Yes, you read it right. They are working on the technology to be able to tell what someone is thinking and it is advancing at a "stunning rate."
The implication for the new technology is incredible when we think about its application in the field of criminal investigations, getting information from potential terrorists, talking to employees about something in a business setting, getting information from your teenager, ... and the list goes on and on.
The application I find absolutely intriguing is the possible uses it has for people with disabilities, especially someone who cannot talk because of an injury, birth defect, disease, or any one of a number of disabling conditions. The possibilities are endless and the following video didn't even address disabilities.
One thing I found very interesting was the Comments section on the CBS News website following the transcript and video. There are obviously differing opinions about the entire idea of what some people might do with the technology. You can read the comments by clicking here.
If you haven't already seen the piece, I encourage you to watch Lesley Stahl's January 4th piece here:
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Monday, January 5, 2009
Obama's Disability Plan
Welcome to 2009 and a new beginning in many ways. It's very exciting for me to see what the new administration is planning to do for people with disabilities. There is a good video on the Barack Obama website about his plan. It is obviously several months old because it looks like a campaign ad. Having said that, he has some great ideas to help the disability community. You can view it by clicking here.
The website also has this statement:
In addition to reclaiming America's global leadership on this issue by becoming a signatory to — and having the Senate ratify — the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the plan has four parts, designed to provide lifelong supports and resources to Americans with disabilities. They are as follows:
First, provide Americans with disabilities with the educational opportunities they need to succeed.
Second, end discrimination and promote equal opportunity.
Third, increase the employment rate of workers with disabilities.
And fourth, support independent, community-based living for Americans with disabilities.
It was obviously shot before September 25, 2008 when the ADA was amended. You can read a brief synopsis of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 on the EEOC's site by clicking here.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
The website also has this statement:
In addition to reclaiming America's global leadership on this issue by becoming a signatory to — and having the Senate ratify — the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the plan has four parts, designed to provide lifelong supports and resources to Americans with disabilities. They are as follows:
First, provide Americans with disabilities with the educational opportunities they need to succeed.
Second, end discrimination and promote equal opportunity.
Third, increase the employment rate of workers with disabilities.
And fourth, support independent, community-based living for Americans with disabilities.
It was obviously shot before September 25, 2008 when the ADA was amended. You can read a brief synopsis of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 on the EEOC's site by clicking here.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!
I was doing a little research to find an appropriate video to post to ring in the new and exciting year we are about to embark upon; and found one I hope you enjoy.
Many of you remember the 70's with fondness of the days when you had hair, and lots of it, wore platform shoes, danced the night away in a disco and could stay up later than 10 PM. Women had the Farah Fawcett hair style and men wore the cool, or so they thought, polyester disco suits. Bell bottoms were cool and basketball players wore short shorts.
Now, many of my readers weren't even born until at least the 80's, and look back at their parents' wedding pictures and laugh at the powder-blue tuxedos, platform shoes, long hair and mutton chop sideburns. How things have changed!
I hope you enjoy this video and have a great 2009! We are all in this together and change is on the way. We will get through these tough times and come out the better for it. Like the man says, "Yes we can, yes we can."
View this nostalgic Happy New Year's video by clicking here.
Take special notice to the clothes and hair. Then, if you are of that generation, think about what you looked and acted like!
Ah, to be young again!
Any comments will be welcomed.
Later,
Mike
P.S. I do miss my hair!
My friend Tom Wallace and me on the Berkeley campus, 1974!
I was doing a little research to find an appropriate video to post to ring in the new and exciting year we are about to embark upon; and found one I hope you enjoy.
Many of you remember the 70's with fondness of the days when you had hair, and lots of it, wore platform shoes, danced the night away in a disco and could stay up later than 10 PM. Women had the Farah Fawcett hair style and men wore the cool, or so they thought, polyester disco suits. Bell bottoms were cool and basketball players wore short shorts.
Now, many of my readers weren't even born until at least the 80's, and look back at their parents' wedding pictures and laugh at the powder-blue tuxedos, platform shoes, long hair and mutton chop sideburns. How things have changed!
I hope you enjoy this video and have a great 2009! We are all in this together and change is on the way. We will get through these tough times and come out the better for it. Like the man says, "Yes we can, yes we can."
View this nostalgic Happy New Year's video by clicking here.
Take special notice to the clothes and hair. Then, if you are of that generation, think about what you looked and acted like!
Ah, to be young again!
Any comments will be welcomed.
Later,
Mike
P.S. I do miss my hair!
My friend Tom Wallace and me on the Berkeley campus, 1974!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Christmas Lights
'Tis the season — right? Everywhere we drive these days we see peoples' houses and yards decorated with lights, ornaments and now I've noticed more and more inflatable lawn figures. Some of them are very well done, others ... not so much.
Maybe you've seen these videos of a couple of incredibly elaborate displays. Look at these two videos and then check out the letter and photo of the last one. Friends have sent these and many others that fall somewhere in the middle of time and energy spent to make their own personal statement about the holidays.
I'd like to make this a contest and ask you to tell me which one you like the best. The first video is from 2005 and the second video, letter and photo are from this year. Please take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and watch the videos, read the letter and look at the picture at the end. Then, leave a comment and tell me which one you like the best. Thank you.
Now, read this letter and see what this fellow did to decorate his garage:
Hello All,
It's that time of year again. The Mrs. has been on my case to get the Christmas lights up for a couple of weeks. They are up now and for some reason she will not talk to me.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to one and all!
Later,
Mike
Maybe you've seen these videos of a couple of incredibly elaborate displays. Look at these two videos and then check out the letter and photo of the last one. Friends have sent these and many others that fall somewhere in the middle of time and energy spent to make their own personal statement about the holidays.
I'd like to make this a contest and ask you to tell me which one you like the best. The first video is from 2005 and the second video, letter and photo are from this year. Please take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and watch the videos, read the letter and look at the picture at the end. Then, leave a comment and tell me which one you like the best. Thank you.
Now, read this letter and see what this fellow did to decorate his garage:
Hello All,
It's that time of year again. The Mrs. has been on my case to get the Christmas lights up for a couple of weeks. They are up now and for some reason she will not talk to me.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to one and all!
Later,
Mike
Monday, December 15, 2008
Project Walk
I just learned of an organization that exists to help spinal cord injured people who may have the ability to walk, to help them do just that. It's called Project Walk and it's main location is in Carlsbad, California.
They discuss how important the first first year, and especially, the first six months post injury are in getting SCI's up and walking again. They are seeing some amazing results. I am very encouraged for new injuries by reading their website. You can view their site by clicking here. Their site is full of interesting information.
According to their website, their Mission is: Project Walk® exists to provide an improved quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries through intense exercise-based recovery programs, education, support and encouragement.
If you are, or know someone who has just suffered a spinal cord injury, I encourage you to at least check out Project Walk and see if you might be a candidate for their program.
Please feel free to comment. I look forward to them.
Later,
Mike
They discuss how important the first first year, and especially, the first six months post injury are in getting SCI's up and walking again. They are seeing some amazing results. I am very encouraged for new injuries by reading their website. You can view their site by clicking here. Their site is full of interesting information.According to their website, their Mission is: Project Walk® exists to provide an improved quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries through intense exercise-based recovery programs, education, support and encouragement.
If you are, or know someone who has just suffered a spinal cord injury, I encourage you to at least check out Project Walk and see if you might be a candidate for their program.
Please feel free to comment. I look forward to them.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Remember The Wassup Guys?
Can you believe it was 2000 to 2002 when the Wassup? commercial was on TV all the time? The years seem to fly by faster and faster for me. Well, the guys are back with a new commercial and this one isn't endorsed by the original sponsor. Watch for the disclaimer at the end of the video.
You need to know this video is heavily critical of the current administration and is a clear endorsement of the new President-elect. It was produced in October, during the campaign. It is still being viewed thousands of times a day and generating an interesting discussion in the Comments section.
I have said before, I like dark humor. This video definitely has some dark spots. This would be very funny if it wasn't so, as the characters say, "True."
Check it out and see if you agree with me:
After watching, and considering all of the changes we have each gone through both individually, and collectively in the last eight years, what changes do you see for yourself in the next eight years?
I'm curious to read your comments.
Later,
Mike
You need to know this video is heavily critical of the current administration and is a clear endorsement of the new President-elect. It was produced in October, during the campaign. It is still being viewed thousands of times a day and generating an interesting discussion in the Comments section.
I have said before, I like dark humor. This video definitely has some dark spots. This would be very funny if it wasn't so, as the characters say, "True."
Check it out and see if you agree with me:
After watching, and considering all of the changes we have each gone through both individually, and collectively in the last eight years, what changes do you see for yourself in the next eight years?
I'm curious to read your comments.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Windspire
I am always fascinated at the rate of change we are seeing today. In doing some research for a post on change, I came across this video and website from Mariah Power in Reno, Nevada. Mariah Power is building a unique, new wind generator they call the Windspire.
You can read more about them by clicking here. I also encourage you to check out this video to see just what their new Windspire is all about:
It shifted my paradigm about the new wind power technology we are seeing today. We now know the huge wind farms beginning to dot the landscape are not the only way to generate power from the wind. The wind generators of today are drastically different than the windmills from our parents and grandparents farms of only a generation or two ago.
Change is happening in virtually every aspect of our lives these days. To think young people in school today will be working in careers in five to ten years that are not even invented yet truly amazes me!
What are some of the changes you are experiencing in your life? I look forward to reading about them.
Later,
Mike
You can read more about them by clicking here. I also encourage you to check out this video to see just what their new Windspire is all about:
It shifted my paradigm about the new wind power technology we are seeing today. We now know the huge wind farms beginning to dot the landscape are not the only way to generate power from the wind. The wind generators of today are drastically different than the windmills from our parents and grandparents farms of only a generation or two ago.
Change is happening in virtually every aspect of our lives these days. To think young people in school today will be working in careers in five to ten years that are not even invented yet truly amazes me!
What are some of the changes you are experiencing in your life? I look forward to reading about them.
Later,
Mike
Friday, November 28, 2008
The Problem Isn't The Issue ...
If you've ever heard me speak, you've heard me say, "The problem isn't the issue. The issue is how you deal with the problem." Well, I want to introduce you to a young man who is the living embodiment of that quote. His name is Nick Vujicic, and he is from Melbourne, Australia.
Nick is twenty-five and building a very successful speaking business. He travels the globe speaking to groups of all ages. One theme is his very strong Christian faith. From the looks of his schedule, he's really racking up the frequent flyer miles. You can check out more about him by going to one or both of his websites here:
Life Without Limbs
or
Attitude is Altitude
There's one more thing, he was born without arms or legs. A couple friends sent me a video of him recently, and when I went to play it today, it had been pulled off YouTube for some copyright infringement. No problem, I know how to Google! There are dozens of videos on Nick and I'd like to share this one with you. Enjoy, and be prepared to get inspired!
In this season of giving thanks, I hope Nick's story gives you pause to think about the reasons you have to be thankful.
Comments are always welcome.
Later,
Mike
Nick is twenty-five and building a very successful speaking business. He travels the globe speaking to groups of all ages. One theme is his very strong Christian faith. From the looks of his schedule, he's really racking up the frequent flyer miles. You can check out more about him by going to one or both of his websites here:
Life Without Limbs
or
Attitude is Altitude
There's one more thing, he was born without arms or legs. A couple friends sent me a video of him recently, and when I went to play it today, it had been pulled off YouTube for some copyright infringement. No problem, I know how to Google! There are dozens of videos on Nick and I'd like to share this one with you. Enjoy, and be prepared to get inspired!
In this season of giving thanks, I hope Nick's story gives you pause to think about the reasons you have to be thankful.
Comments are always welcome.
Later,
Mike
Monday, November 17, 2008
Max Warburg Courage Curriculum
Max Warburg was another young Max who has left an amazing legecy for a child who died from leukemia at age eleven in 1991! The Max Warburg Courage Curriculum was developed by his parents, Stephanie and Jonathan Warburg, who worked with the Boston Public Schools, a team of doctoral students from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and educators from across the country. It is inspiring youngsters in sixth grade classrooms to be courageous in the face of the problems they face. You can learn more about them at their website by clicking here.
Also, learn how Max's courageous fight affected his classmates and everyone his short life touched in this 1992 video:
I also found this story very moving. It was written by his mother Stephanie and Charlotte Harris. You may read it by clicking here.
As always, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Also, learn how Max's courageous fight affected his classmates and everyone his short life touched in this 1992 video:
I also found this story very moving. It was written by his mother Stephanie and Charlotte Harris. You may read it by clicking here.
As always, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Everybody Has A Talent
You've heard people say everyone has a certain gift or talent, right? Well, how would you like to be Stevie Starr? He has a special talent like none I have ever seen. I found out how he came upon his gift and how he nurtured it on his website. You can learn more about him by clicking here. Here he is in all his splendor. He is truly amazing, a real "One-of-a-kind" individual! Plus, he has a great Scottish accent!
Check out this video of Stevie Starr:
What do you think?
What is your special talent? Have you ever done anything to develop your uniqueness? If not, why? If you have, how is it working for you? I'm not suggesting you have or need a uniqueness as different as Stevie Starr, but imagine, he found his special talent at age four!
In contrast, I found my ability and fondness for public speaking when I was in the ninth grade and my speech teacher TOLD me I was going to emcee the annual variety show. She said I would tell some silly jokes, everyone would laugh at me and I would not want to get off the stage! And, she was right! Now, forty years later, it's not just my career, it's also my therapy. I can't imagine getting a real job! I absolutely love what I do. Can you say the same about your chosen career? I hope so.
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Check out this video of Stevie Starr:
What do you think?
What is your special talent? Have you ever done anything to develop your uniqueness? If not, why? If you have, how is it working for you? I'm not suggesting you have or need a uniqueness as different as Stevie Starr, but imagine, he found his special talent at age four!
In contrast, I found my ability and fondness for public speaking when I was in the ninth grade and my speech teacher TOLD me I was going to emcee the annual variety show. She said I would tell some silly jokes, everyone would laugh at me and I would not want to get off the stage! And, she was right! Now, forty years later, it's not just my career, it's also my therapy. I can't imagine getting a real job! I absolutely love what I do. Can you say the same about your chosen career? I hope so.
I welcome your comments.
Later,
Mike
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Imagine
If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know I'm a big fan of 60 Minutes. Tonight they ran an extraordinary piece on new, cutting-edge technology I would like to share. They showed how an individual can now sit in front of a computer, and think, and the computer can tell what the person is thinking!
The ramifications and possibilities, especially for people with disabilities are truly amazing! One of the reasons I'm so excited is the possibilities it creates for people with a spinal cord injury. I won't say anything else, just watch this piece:
Watch CBS Videos Online
As with all new discoveries, there are many levels of development until it gets to a workable project. Obviously, this idea is in the beginning stages of human experimentation. It will be exciting to watch as this technology develops.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Watch CBS Videos Online
As with all new discoveries, there are many levels of development until it gets to a workable project. Obviously, this idea is in the beginning stages of human experimentation. It will be exciting to watch as this technology develops.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Friday, October 24, 2008
Max Farias Is Cool
Young people constantly amaze me. October first, I shared the story of young Dalton Sherman and how he is a gifted public speaker. Today, I want to share a story about another extraordinary young man who just handled a possible life-threatening situation like an old pro.
His name is Max Farias. He's fifteen years old and a sophomore at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix. He lives with his mother and father, Tammy Patrick and Jeff Farias, and their dog, Brutus. Oh, and he's my nephew. Here's a picture of Max and me in the Badlands of South Dakota two years ago. Yes, he was only thirteen years old!
Max was held hostage for about two hours Wednesday afternoon in the family's home by an armed gunman as helicopters circled above, police cordoned off all the surrounding streets and SWAT teams encircled the house!
During the entire ordeal, Jeff was doing his radio show in their studio in the back yard. To hear Jeff tell the story, I encourage you to listen to the first fourteen minutes of The Jeff Farias Show from yesterday, October 23rd's podcast. You can listen to the podcast by clicking here.
Am I a proud uncle right now? Absolutely! Is Max a hero? In my mind, absolutely! Could the situation have ended differently? Absolutely, and many of the scenarios could have been bad! The critical thinking skills he demonstrated are truly astonishing!
It's just another example of how many of our young people are being nurtured by loving parents who are teaching their children to do the right thing. Like I've said before and will say again, "Young people may not always tell you how important their relationship is to you as parents, but you are the most important role model in their young lives!
WAY TO GO, MAX!
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
His name is Max Farias. He's fifteen years old and a sophomore at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix. He lives with his mother and father, Tammy Patrick and Jeff Farias, and their dog, Brutus. Oh, and he's my nephew. Here's a picture of Max and me in the Badlands of South Dakota two years ago. Yes, he was only thirteen years old!
Max was held hostage for about two hours Wednesday afternoon in the family's home by an armed gunman as helicopters circled above, police cordoned off all the surrounding streets and SWAT teams encircled the house!
During the entire ordeal, Jeff was doing his radio show in their studio in the back yard. To hear Jeff tell the story, I encourage you to listen to the first fourteen minutes of The Jeff Farias Show from yesterday, October 23rd's podcast. You can listen to the podcast by clicking here.Am I a proud uncle right now? Absolutely! Is Max a hero? In my mind, absolutely! Could the situation have ended differently? Absolutely, and many of the scenarios could have been bad! The critical thinking skills he demonstrated are truly astonishing!
It's just another example of how many of our young people are being nurtured by loving parents who are teaching their children to do the right thing. Like I've said before and will say again, "Young people may not always tell you how important their relationship is to you as parents, but you are the most important role model in their young lives!
WAY TO GO, MAX!
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Friday, October 17, 2008
When "It" Happens
Julie Smith, Ph.D., has done it again. Her latest project, When "It" Happens To Your Health is a comprehensive program which consists of a process with five action steps people can use when "It" happens to their health. You can read the flyer on this project by clicking on these images to enlarge them:
Julie asked my mother and me to be a part of the project and interviewed us for the DVD
which is an integral part of the support kit. I am happy to say Mom did a great job speaking as a mother who has shown how to be Change-Resilient when your son's world literally gets turned upside down.
The change-resilience support kit is based on this book and is an excellent tool to help both patients and families take control of their recovery after "It" happens to you, or someone you love.
It will be available soon and you can learn more about it by clcking here to go to LifePath's website.
If you contact the people at LifePath, please tell them, "Mike sent me." Thank you for doing so.
On a side note: after our interview, Julie incorporated a few of my statements in Jerry, the book's main character. That was kind of cool.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
Julie asked my mother and me to be a part of the project and interviewed us for the DVD
which is an integral part of the support kit. I am happy to say Mom did a great job speaking as a mother who has shown how to be Change-Resilient when your son's world literally gets turned upside down.The change-resilience support kit is based on this book and is an excellent tool to help both patients and families take control of their recovery after "It" happens to you, or someone you love.
It will be available soon and you can learn more about it by clcking here to go to LifePath's website.
If you contact the people at LifePath, please tell them, "Mike sent me." Thank you for doing so.
On a side note: after our interview, Julie incorporated a few of my statements in Jerry, the book's main character. That was kind of cool.
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Power Of The Internet
I'm always looking for more material to share with you and it constantly amazes me what we can find online! Besides doing my own research, people are often sending me links to sites I have used as the basis of a post.
A friend sent me this humorous video the other day, and I laughed out loud several times while viewing it three or four times. The thing that really struck me however was, the number of people who have viewed it and commented on it. With more than 67 million hits and almost 100 thousand comments, I believe it is the most watched video I have ever seen!
Imagine, 67 million times someone has watched this funny video!
Here you go:
Personally, I like dark humor. I think this is funny as well as amazing so many people have viewed it!
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
A friend sent me this humorous video the other day, and I laughed out loud several times while viewing it three or four times. The thing that really struck me however was, the number of people who have viewed it and commented on it. With more than 67 million hits and almost 100 thousand comments, I believe it is the most watched video I have ever seen!
Imagine, 67 million times someone has watched this funny video!
Here you go:
Personally, I like dark humor. I think this is funny as well as amazing so many people have viewed it!
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
You Need To See This
Imagine you are standing on a small stage in the middle of an arena filled with over 20,000 teachers, staff and administrators, and you are the keynote speaker for the back-to-school convocation of the Dallas Independent School District. How do you feel? Oh, and there's one more thing, you are ten years old!
Your name is Dalton Sherman and this is what you said:
A friend sent me this video the other day and didn't suggest I post this, he said, "You have to post this."
He was right. This precocious young boy gave me shivers up my spine, and that's hard to do because I'm paralyzed! I certainly couldn't have done this at ten. I couldn't do this today!
He has a gift and I hope he is nurtured and taught well to enhance his gift so he reaches his fullest potential. In my opinion, he has a tremendous future as a professional speaker. I wish him well, and I plan to follow him as best I can. With YouTube, that should be fairly easy.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Your name is Dalton Sherman and this is what you said:
A friend sent me this video the other day and didn't suggest I post this, he said, "You have to post this."
He was right. This precocious young boy gave me shivers up my spine, and that's hard to do because I'm paralyzed! I certainly couldn't have done this at ten. I couldn't do this today!
He has a gift and I hope he is nurtured and taught well to enhance his gift so he reaches his fullest potential. In my opinion, he has a tremendous future as a professional speaker. I wish him well, and I plan to follow him as best I can. With YouTube, that should be fairly easy.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Friday, September 26, 2008
ADA Amendments Passed!
It's official, the new amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act have passed the Congress and the President signed them into law yesterday.
Thursday, Andrew Imparato, President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities, stated, "Today President Bush has followed in his father's footsteps and taken a stand for equal opportunity and full participation for all Americans. I deeply appreciate the bipartisan leadership in the Congress that brought us to this point, and I thank President Bush for his leadership in signing this critical civil rights law that will make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities and chronic health conditions."
You can read the entire AAPD Press Release by clicking here.
It has reversed four Supreme Court decisions which were slowly eroding the rights for people with disabilities which were granted in the original law from July 26, 1990. This is a huge step forward for people with disabilities. I applaud the Congress and the President for getting this significant piece of legislation passed.
As always, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Thursday, Andrew Imparato, President and CEO of the American Association of People with Disabilities, stated, "Today President Bush has followed in his father's footsteps and taken a stand for equal opportunity and full participation for all Americans. I deeply appreciate the bipartisan leadership in the Congress that brought us to this point, and I thank President Bush for his leadership in signing this critical civil rights law that will make a real difference in the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities and chronic health conditions."
You can read the entire AAPD Press Release by clicking here.
It has reversed four Supreme Court decisions which were slowly eroding the rights for people with disabilities which were granted in the original law from July 26, 1990. This is a huge step forward for people with disabilities. I applaud the Congress and the President for getting this significant piece of legislation passed.
As always, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Oscar Did It!
Just hours ago, Oscar Pistorius accomplished his goal of three Gold Medals in the 100, 200 and 400 meters in the Paralympics in Beijing, China. He won the 400 meters in World Record time for the T44 category, to lower his own record to 47.49 seconds. For you non track and field aficionados, that's fast! The Men's World Record for able-bodied runners is held by Michael Johnson of the USA of 43.18 set in 1999, while the Women's Record is held by Maria Koch of East Germany of 47.60 seconds set in 1985.
You can read all about Oscar Pistorius and his recent accomplishments by clicking here.
It is his 27th world record. I'd say that's a great accomplishment for someone who has no feet!
He still wants to compete with the able-bodied runners in the London Olympics in 2012. We'll just have to see how well he does.
Right now, I'm sure he's very pleased with his three Paralymic Gold Medals. At least he looks happy in this picture from the China Daily.com.cn.
Good for him!
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
You can read all about Oscar Pistorius and his recent accomplishments by clicking here.
It is his 27th world record. I'd say that's a great accomplishment for someone who has no feet!
He still wants to compete with the able-bodied runners in the London Olympics in 2012. We'll just have to see how well he does.Right now, I'm sure he's very pleased with his three Paralymic Gold Medals. At least he looks happy in this picture from the China Daily.com.cn.
Good for him!
Any comments?
Later,
Mike
Thursday, September 11, 2008
What Do You Remember?
I used to watch CNN every morning while my attendant got me dressed, into my chair and ready for the day. I'll never forget watching live as the second plane came crashing into the South Tower of the World Trade Center over Aaron Brown's shoulder.
Like most of you, and much of the country, I spent the rest of the day glued to the TV and watched with horror as the day unfolded and stories began to fill the airways. It was a day none of us will ever forget.
Can you believe it's already been seven years? It seems like it was just yesterday. I'm guessing that may never change for me.
I would like to know what your memories are of that fateful day. What did you think on 9/11? Please feel free to comment.
For my subscribers, click on the title of the blog link at the bottom of this email and you will be directed to my blog. Then go to the bottom of the post and click on Comments.
For other readers, simply click on Comments to leave yours.
If you do not want to subscribe to Blogger or are not already a member, just click on Anonymous and you can leave your comment. It's easy to do, just follow the directions.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Like most of you, and much of the country, I spent the rest of the day glued to the TV and watched with horror as the day unfolded and stories began to fill the airways. It was a day none of us will ever forget.Can you believe it's already been seven years? It seems like it was just yesterday. I'm guessing that may never change for me.
I would like to know what your memories are of that fateful day. What did you think on 9/11? Please feel free to comment.
For my subscribers, click on the title of the blog link at the bottom of this email and you will be directed to my blog. Then go to the bottom of the post and click on Comments.
For other readers, simply click on Comments to leave yours.
If you do not want to subscribe to Blogger or are not already a member, just click on Anonymous and you can leave your comment. It's easy to do, just follow the directions.
I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Monday, September 8, 2008
The Paralympics Have Started
For you regular readers, you know I profiled Oscar Pistorius, the "Blade Runner," in my May 23rd post and his bid to compete in the Olympics held last month in Beijing. If you haven't read it, you can click here and read the post.
He didn't qualify for the Olympics for his South African team, but he has qualified for the Paralympics and has started out in tremendous fashion. He already owns the World Records for the 100, 200 and 400 meter dashes, and his goal is to win gold medals in all three. In the process he may even lower his own records.
He won his preliminary heat in the 100 today and seems on his way to achieving his goal. You can read an informative article from the China Daily by clicking here.
I plan to follow his quest. Who knows, I may put up another post to keep you informed of his progress.
Once again, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
He didn't qualify for the Olympics for his South African team, but he has qualified for the Paralympics and has started out in tremendous fashion. He already owns the World Records for the 100, 200 and 400 meter dashes, and his goal is to win gold medals in all three. In the process he may even lower his own records.
He won his preliminary heat in the 100 today and seems on his way to achieving his goal. You can read an informative article from the China Daily by clicking here.
I plan to follow his quest. Who knows, I may put up another post to keep you informed of his progress.
Once again, feel free to comment.
Later,
Mike
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Football Is Here Again
Yes folks, the State Fair is winding down on Labor Day, NFL preseason games are about done, and once again many of us will be watching football games on one or more levels. Whether it's the little kids in the park and rec leagues, middle school and junior varsity during the week, high school on Friday nights, college on Saturdays, or the NFL on Sundays and Monday nights, it's time to crank it up again.
I love watching football on all levels; although over the past several years, I have seen a decline in good sportsmanship and an increase in showboating, dancing in the end zones and just a general decline in decent behavior by players on all levels.
The younger children see their idols making all kinds of efforts to show off and put themselves above team. I think they forget they wouldn't have scored that touchdown or made that sack or interception without the assistance of their teammates. They are role models for the youth who are watching — whether or not they want that responsibility. I think it's very sad to see this trend.
Anyway, a friend sent me this video the other day, and, although it's not a football video, I think it's a great tribute as to why you shouldn't show off when you are an athlete. I believe you should let your actions on the field do your talking. Then after the game, win or lose, line up and shake the hands of your opponents. See if you agree with me about showing off after you watch this video:
What an idiot!
I don't condone fighting, and I despise this type of macho activity, but I think it makes my point about letting your actions do your talking for you.
As always, I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
I love watching football on all levels; although over the past several years, I have seen a decline in good sportsmanship and an increase in showboating, dancing in the end zones and just a general decline in decent behavior by players on all levels.
The younger children see their idols making all kinds of efforts to show off and put themselves above team. I think they forget they wouldn't have scored that touchdown or made that sack or interception without the assistance of their teammates. They are role models for the youth who are watching — whether or not they want that responsibility. I think it's very sad to see this trend.
Anyway, a friend sent me this video the other day, and, although it's not a football video, I think it's a great tribute as to why you shouldn't show off when you are an athlete. I believe you should let your actions on the field do your talking. Then after the game, win or lose, line up and shake the hands of your opponents. See if you agree with me about showing off after you watch this video:
What an idiot!
I don't condone fighting, and I despise this type of macho activity, but I think it makes my point about letting your actions do your talking for you.
As always, I look forward to your comments.
Later,
Mike
Friday, August 22, 2008
For You Boomers!
I came across this video the other day of Tom Rush. If you Boomers out there occasionally have one of those "senior moments," or as I learned recently, they are also known as "intellectual interruptions," I believe you will appreciate it. Enjoy!
For my younger readers, don't worry, life is short. Your time will come soon enough. :-)
He has several more videos on YouTube. Check him out. We all need to laugh at ourselves every once in a while.
I have watched it a few times and laugh out loud each time.
Later,
Mike
For my younger readers, don't worry, life is short. Your time will come soon enough. :-)
He has several more videos on YouTube. Check him out. We all need to laugh at ourselves every once in a while.
I have watched it a few times and laugh out loud each time.
Later,
Mike
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Riane Eisler's View
I heard an interview last week with the eminent social scientist, Riane Eisler, and was very impressed with her ideas and way of thinking. She was promoting her latest book, The Real Wealth of Nations and she struck a cord with me. I just spent an hour reading several of her articles learning about her philosophy of education and changes she feels are necessary in our ever-changing world. You can go to her website by clicking here.
As I have stated in previous posts, I like listening to other speakers. As I listened to Dr. Eisler, I realized I was listening to an extraordinary woman. I read one article that goes into detail on what she calls the Six Keys To Partnership Education. You can read the whole article by clicking here.
Here are her six keys:
Tools
Values
Structures
Science
Integration
Inspiration
I encourage you to check out this article, and others you can find on this page, just click here. I found all of her articles very informative.
In her sister website, The Partnership Education Institute, Dr. Eisler states,
"If we prepare today's children to meet the unprecedented challenges they face, if we help them begin to lay the foundations for a partnership world, then tomorrow's children will have the potential to create a new era of evolution."
I couldn't agree more. Change is one thing we must all address. How we handle it will be the key. Funny, that sounds like another familiar quote, "The problem isn't the issue, the issue if how we deal with the issue." I knew there was a reason why I liked what she was saying.
Later,
Mike
As I have stated in previous posts, I like listening to other speakers. As I listened to Dr. Eisler, I realized I was listening to an extraordinary woman. I read one article that goes into detail on what she calls the Six Keys To Partnership Education. You can read the whole article by clicking here.
Here are her six keys:
Tools
Values
Structures
Science
Integration
Inspiration
I encourage you to check out this article, and others you can find on this page, just click here. I found all of her articles very informative.
In her sister website, The Partnership Education Institute, Dr. Eisler states,
"If we prepare today's children to meet the unprecedented challenges they face, if we help them begin to lay the foundations for a partnership world, then tomorrow's children will have the potential to create a new era of evolution."I couldn't agree more. Change is one thing we must all address. How we handle it will be the key. Funny, that sounds like another familiar quote, "The problem isn't the issue, the issue if how we deal with the issue." I knew there was a reason why I liked what she was saying.
Later,
Mike
Monday, August 4, 2008
Three Things
I just learned of a wonderful resource for the Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injury community. It is called Brain and Spinal Cord Injury.org. You can go to their site by clicking here. It is full of good information.
Their August first blog post has some great advise for someone who has just had a TBI or SCI. Their three points are:
Step 1: Educate Yourself
Step 2: Focus on the Present
Step 3: Prepare for the Future
To learn more about these steps, click here.
I'm curious to see what you think about their recommendations.
Later,
Mike
Their August first blog post has some great advise for someone who has just had a TBI or SCI. Their three points are:
Step 1: Educate Yourself
Step 2: Focus on the Present
Step 3: Prepare for the Future
To learn more about these steps, click here.
I'm curious to see what you think about their recommendations.
Later,
Mike
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)