Iron Firemen Wooden Ladders & Iron Firemen
I’m not sure what all the fuss is about but it’s all I’ve heard or seen on TV today. An “up-rise” against new airport security measures. I don’t see what the big deal is. I mean who honestly didn’t see this coming in the first place?
I wonder how many times they’ll let us go through the line? “Excuse me sir.. haven’t you been through security 3 times already?” LOL. Better yet, now we can just go and hang out at the airport, sit back and watch the show..
Seriously guys… no cover charge .. the bar is just around the corner..clean restrooms and you wont have to hide your truck in the adjoining parking lot. LOL. All kidding aside, it does seem like an invasion of our privacy. I’m not so sure I’d want to watch one of my daughters, my mother or sister go through security. That said, I don’t have an alternate answer BUT I also don’t want to board a plane with people that haven’t been thoroughly searched / scanned.
You may remember back to when Rhett and I flew up to Chicago for FRI 2010. Read the pre-flight post here. Or, when I flew down to Orlando Fla. with our football team the Roanoke Rampage. See that post here. I have to admit that on both flights, the security was pretty detailed. They pretty much strip searched me on the Richmond to Orlando check (of course I understand that the mustache, cowboy hat and boots can make me look like a terrorist). Is the possible embarrassment and a little more time and hassle worth flying worry free? Maybe so IF the system works. Is the “pat down” enough? Will it catch every attempt? Who knows but at least they’re trying.
Ok, moving on. I hope you tuned in to Firefighter Netcast last night. If you haven’t checked em out yet … do it now. I was on with a good friend, and respected Fire Service leader Chris Naum, during his weekly show; Taking it to the Streets. Here’s a quote to offer a brief description of what Chris’ show is geared towards… “Advancing Firefighter Safety and Operational Integrity for the Fire Service through provocative insights and dynamic discussions dedicated to the Art and Science of Firefighting and the Traditions of the Fire Service.”
Last night’s show was about the “first due Officer” and resulted in some good discussion and excellent points for new or old Officers. Direct link to the show here. I would add here that the goal / vision for these shows (netcasts) is to have listener participation. The “chat room” seems to stay busy but not a lot of folks are calling in. CALL. Don’t be shy, scared or whatever. There is no wrong answer when a good debate results in a lesson learned. Firefighter Netcast has weekly shows and then throw in some “special” segments here and there. Go to their site and “follow” them so you’ll get the updates and show schedules. This is interactive training from home. Easy, painless and just another “tool” in the bag to assure everyone goes home. Thanks to Chris, Rhett and John Mitchel(and all the Firefighter Netcast Hosts) for the job they do and the service they provide.
Ok, tonight’s title mentioned “giving back”. Where’s he going there you may ask. Well, I am again talking about Rhett…. my “little buddy” Rhett Fleitz. Call him what you will but underneath, he’s a GIVER. Many of you may know that Rhett runs several sites / blogs and is always finding and passing on important stories / information pertinent to the Fire Service. He’s doing the “leg work” and putting it just a mouse click away from the rest of us.
One of his latest post is Top Ten Hot & Sexy Calendars for 2011. He always makes a post like this around this time of year (along with a Top 10 list of Firefighter gifts) due to the upcoming Holidays. He’s doing the shopping for us. What a saint! So as I sat there reading his list, I began to think. Christmas is just around the corner and I have to figure out the perfect gift to give a giver. Then it hit me… you guys can help. I have a few items in mind but I’m not really sure which he may like the most. I thought maybe I could share a few of my ideas with you folks here on the site and get a little feedback as to which way to go. So, here’s what I was thinking…..(my Top 8)…
8). Engine Entry Assistance Tool
My “little buddy” is somewhat ummmm …. errrrrrrr.. “vertically challenged”. With today’s fire apparatus getting bigger and higher, the physical demands of a short person climbing in and out multiple times a day can be damaging. Maybe a little something like this will make it easier for the little fella.
7). Jazz Platform Shoes for men (black)
Another gift to help with his height deficiency. A comfortable yet durable lightweight shoe suitable for the station or off duty applications. Hold a shine and could be worn with Class A’s or station utilities. Available in 2″, 4″ and 6″ platforms.
6). Colorful, lightweight Stilts
Made of lightweight aluminum, these colorful stilts could for the first time, put him eye to eye with his peers. Available with optional max lengths with each being fully adjustable. There is a recommended minimum age / education level which may cause this possibility to be removed from the list (unless I add a helmet and mouth piece for operator safety).
5). A “King of Blogs” Throne
Exactly what every “Kink of Blogs” needs … a Throne! What better gift to act as a focal point for his office, man room and or Blog Headquarters. Cozy, comfortable and easily cleaned. High end models come with heat, vibration and beverage holder options (note: waitress not included).
4). Padded Potty Seat with Steps.
At times, Rhett’s little belly is upset (understanding that he has a lot of stress on him). Instead of running and jumping up onto a hard, cold toilet seat, how about an easy climb up to a soft, warm comfortable perch? Note the “vagale” bars on either side for when you really have to bear down. Unit folds easily to be placed out of the way for when his taller wife or kids use the same bathroom.
3). Paste 195 Fire Truck Suitcase
Rhett travels more than most these days and in one way or another it’s usually connected with the Fire Service. The sad thing here is that despite his “Yazoo FD” tee-shirt, most folks don’t immediately recognize him as a firefighter. With this lightweight, rolling bag at least he may project the image of a Firefighter’s son. Multi-compartmental, rugged construction and compatible with most airline “carry on” dimensions.
2). Calendar
Obviously, Rhett is a big “calendar” fan. Until his latest Top 10 calendar post, I didn’t realize his “taste” in calendars. He has an annual Luau party and can often be found wearing “flip-flops” so I would assume he considers himself a “boy of summer”.
1). Another maybe “more suitable” Calendar
Bold print, full color pics … right up his alley!
LMAO… so what do ya think? Any better ideas? Considering all he does for us, assuring he has a good Christmas and a little “sompen sompen” under the tree is the least we can do right?
Ok, that’s enough fretting for now (the pay back from the videos is gonna be bad enough). It’s been a decent day here at Lucky 13. A few runs with nothing blog worthy. I have some issues topics I want to hit but will catch up with ya on Saturday. Until then, stay safe and in house.
Captain Wines