April 20, 2008 was a great day for the Greater New York Floor Coverers Industry Promotional Fund. Executive Director Jim Dipilesi had the pleasure of representing the Greater New York Floor Coverers Industry Promotional Fund with the delivery of a check in the amount of $11,400 to NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Service) to assist in the training of dogs (Canines for Combat Veterans).

The check was originally to be presented to Army Corporal Christopher Strickland (21) of Waterford, CT and his dog, Ruthie, but Chris could not attend the presentation because he had just learned that three of his buddies were killed in Iraq.

Chris was hit by a roadside bomb in Iraq in July of 2006. Both his legs were shattered, he lost vision in one eye, and his right arm was amputated below the elbow. He recently learned that he is facing at least one more surgery and may need to have his right leg amputated.

Jim said, "The young people are giving so much and I am giving so little". The Executive Director of NEADS advised that when Chris is up to it, Jim will be able to visit him and Ruthie in Connecticut.

Members of the association were very generous in their corporate and personal support. Thy include National Interiors, Steve Keriakos, Sherland and Farrington with Jim's personal check, and gifts from the Coast Guard, the Merchant Marine and other friends making up the difference.