Bringing It Home With You

Reblogged from Black Box Warnings:

I was honored when Eric offered me an opportunity to write here on Black Box Warnings. Many of you know me from my screed/blog, BrainRants. If you’re expecting a laugh or some curmudgeonly behavior here today, I’m sorry. What I’m sharing today isn’t really funny, and from my point of view this is a time-bomb waiting to explode.

I thought I was immune, but facts would seem to indicate I am merely not predisposed to the problem.

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Here is a one man's very personal look at PTSD. As he reminded me, "...it’s not just military that need help."

Joseph Strauss, R.I.P.

“…I am totally out of sympathy with the ‘Can’t be done’ policy, as evidenced by my work on the Golden Gate Bridge, which you may know was considered impossible…my first duty now is to safeguard my health, and for this reason I plan to assume no active duties until fall.” —excerpted from letter, Joseph Strauss to the Pacific Seadrome Company, June 4, 1937

Chief Engineer Joseph Strauss, the man who “dared the impossible” and supervised the construction of “The Bridge that could not be built”, died on May 16, 1938 at the age of 68, less than a year after turning over the Golden Gate Bridge to the newly created Bridge District.

A New Feature on Ohm Sweet Ohm

I have added a “Guest book” to my menu for anyone who wishes to post a question or make a general comment.

A message to parents from your child's teacher

Reblogged from an educator's re-education:

Dear Parent/Guardian,

I am your child’s teacher.  My role as educator extends far beyond the walls of my classroom.  It is my profession, what I practice.   I have chosen to devote the better part of what will be the years that make up my life to educating your child. I take it very seriously and I should; I am a stakeholder in…

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This teacher is making a difference. I applaud her efforts and passion.

Weekly Photo Challenge: A Day in My Life

I am taking the easy way out on this week’s challenge: A Day in My Life. Embedded below is a short video that was made by the Media Department of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. I have been an active member of the IBEW since 1968, and I am one of eight electricians at the Golden Gate Bridge.

I hope that you enjoy my day.

Q: How many electricians does it take to change a light bulb?

A: None. Real electricians aren’t afraid of the dark!

Allan’s Note: I am always on the lookout for new How many….does it take to change a light bulb? jokes. If you have any, please share them in the Comments section below.

Your Money is No Good Here

1937 Packard
Photo © Allan G. Smorra, All Rights Reserved

At 23:00 hours last night I finished my Swing shift at the Golden Gate Bridge and stayed over to be a witness as the last Toll Collector left her booth at Midnight. It was like waiting for an execution.