Surprised Site Visit.

It's Christmas Eve on the island.  Nothing much going on.  Wife and kids are in Butuan City to celebrate Christmas with the familia there.  I'll be there soon thereafter.  Later on...in the next couple of days.

Didn't know today was an off-day for the company.  Yeah...my buddy Lee told me last Friday.  But he's a joker so I didn't pay to much attention to it.  Found out when I went to work this morning and there was nobody at the trailer, gate was closed.  So I went to my job sites and waited.  Not one person from both companies were around.

Then I drove up to the "Tank" and found a crew working.  That job site is just all ate up in safety violations.  I don't know if the SSHO assigned to that site knows what her crew is doing.  It's just amazing the amount of safety violations that I've found in less than 15 minutes.  The manager of that company just does not care.  Either that, or he has no clue what his responsibilities are in regards to safety.  I am so glad that is not my job site.  But, because that's a P&S Construction Project, I have to insure that the subcontractors follow our Safety and Health Plan. 

Let's get back to Christmas...

Family here have been busy cooking for tonight's Noche Buena, here on the island.  Rhoda is cooking for her family's Noche Buena there in Butuan City.  Food here smells good.  I'm sure the food being cooked by Rhoda is good. 

I was supposed to go shopping today.  I'll forgo until the 26th. 

Working to Save all the Chokoy for Me!

The following message was sent to me by Rhoda, this morning.  A conversation between her and our son, Frenz.  


As told by Rhoda.

during breakfast this morning with kids, I asked our boboi: 

Me: Where is your dad? 
Fren: He's in Guam... 
Me: where?
Fren: Guam...
Me: What is he doing there in Guam? 
Fren: He's working..
Me: what work is he doing there? 
Fren: Mom, you know very well that daddy's work is saving chokoy for me so when he comes home, I will have all of it!!! 

(then he gave me an evil eye) kaduku!!!

Larraine laughed hard and explained to him this way:

daddy is an SSHO and when he is getting paid, that's the time he buys chokoy for you...



My reaction...ROFLMBO!!!  I love my children's analysis of life. 

Miscommunication Caused Safety Discrepancy.

Friday was my biggest challenge for the week, as a SSHO.  When I got to the job site that morning.  I learned that one set of damaged electrical wires, that was not repaired, was buried.  I went from positive outlook to livid in seconds.  I tried so hard to hide my anger.  Hopefully, the guys wouldn't notice.  I couldn't believe that someone would literally order hiding damaged electrical power lines.  

I had to  "Take "5" a couple of times.  "Take 5" is a program that I adopted as a safety precaution for myself to follow.  I'm slowly implementing it with my crews.  When a safety issue happens.  The worker "Takes 5".  "Take 5" is moving 5 feet back, and analyze the issue for 5 minutes.  When you find a solution, you return to finish the job task.  If not, then you "Take 5 again.  Move 5 feet back, and another 5 minutes to analyze.  So I took, maybe, 6 "Take 5's"

During that time, I worked to calm myself down.  I had to move into my Accident Investigative mode.  Ask Questions, Analyze what happened, and make the proper changes and recommendations, so that it never happens again.  

So I asked the questions.  I learned that an operator was told to bury the wires.  I found out a supervisor told him to do it.  Also learned that it was the subprime super who did that.  Then I went to talk to the super.  he said, yes, he told the operator.  But he was told by their subcontractor to remove the forms, so they can back fill.  He assumed that the wires were repaired.  

When the hole was covered with the wires underneath...everyone from the operator, foreman, supers all thought that the wires were repaired.  Nobody confirmed with me or the QC about that matter.  They all thought wrong.  

Root Cause.  After following the dots, in my opinion, this safety discrepancy was due to miscommunication by all parties.  

My Recommendation.  A Safety Huddle should take place prior to any job started on the site, on a daily basis.  The huddle informs the workers what we did already, and where we are going.  It tells of logistics needs for the day, and safety issues we may face and need to keep an eye out for.   

No Spring Chicken.

Pacific Ocean beyond the trees.

For those in my generation, how many times have you believed that you can still do the things you did in your early 20's?  I long for the days when I used to run 20+ miles, go hiking, backpacking, go sky diving, bungee jumping, cliff diving, spelunking, white water rafting, and so many outdoor adventures.  

I broke so many bones and have so many scars from my adventures.  I know when and where each one happened.  


Today, I was doing the Safety Officer thing on my job sites, reminding workers about PPE, working safely, and other things.  I was observing 3 sites today.  Yes, I know.  I know the standard.  One Site Safety Officer per job site.  I've brought it up and still nothing.  But anyway, back to my story.  Majority of the guys within the different crews are young.  Most are in their 20's.  So today, after watching different crews all morning.  I started looking back to the good ole' times.  

The days when I was a young electrician apprentice, paratrooper, and athlete.  Those days when I had so much fun doing so many different things and learning so many different crafts.  My mind was telling me that I could still do the things that the guys in my crews are doing.  I wanted to get my hands dirty.  I could hear those words, "You're still young.  Age is only a number.  You're just as agile and strong as those young bucks".  

So all afternoon, I was starting to feel good about myself.  I was assuring myself through self-affirmations, as I watched the guys doing their jobs throughout the job site.  "Yeah!  I'm young.  I can still do that!"   

When the flat bed truck started to back up on the roadway.  I was in the way.  Instead of walking to the other side of the road to get out of the way like I am supposed to.  I let my mind get the better of me.  I decided to leap across a 16" deep trench by 2' wide.  We had just finished laying a 12" pipe in and back-filled it.  It used to be 4'9" deep.  

I got myself ready.  The flatbed was coming towards me.  I could hear my mind saying...you can do it!  So I did.  I leapt from the curb of the road to the soft ground on the other side of that shallow trench.  What I thought would be a great landing in front of the guys turned into a catastrophe.  My left knee buckled.  I could hear my knee yell...What are you doing?!  Oh, Naw...I'm not letting you do this!  I'm gonna buckle.  Not gonna let all that weight bust me again and get swelled up.  Not Me!  

I lost my balance falling forward.  Everything went into slow motion.  I saw the green grass slowly coming towards me. I distinctly remember yelling in my head, "Jesus, Protect Me"!  I don't know how I did it.  But in mid air, my body turned so my left shoulder will take the brunt of the impact.  Stretching out my right arm to protect my face from banging into anything I didn't see.  

That was the softest landing I ever had...as big as I am.  I didn't strain anything.  My left knee is fine.  There was no impact print on the soft soil.  Just my left boot print.  

I still replay that incident in my head.  Next Monday's Safety Topic, I already know.  


Keep Smiling...  

Site Safety

Dark and getting darker.  

It's been over a month, since I started working as a Site Safety & Health Officer. I really enjoy doing what I'm doing now. Lots of reports to fill out though.  But it's good.  Keeps my mind working too.  I'm on Phase 4 of a Water Distribution System Project.  There are other phases with this project that are ongoing simultaneously.  My first week on the job, I got burnt really bad by the sun.  I went from a light complexion to dark...and getting darker.  But the burning as stopped, especially now that I am using sun block with SPF 50.  

The job we're doing is installing new water lines through certain areas of the base.  It's hard to believe that it took my crew one month to move from where they were when I first started to the intersection behind the control tower.  All the utilities that we encountered that were not marked on the map.  I thank God that we didn't break a single one.  We have a really good excavator operator named, Eddie.  

We jumped from that road behind the control tower to Crum Avenue, last Thursday.  The whole crew seems happy with the change of scenery.  I can see the Pacific Ocean as I look down Crum Ave.  We are making quick progress working along the shoulder of the road.  

My job though is not in production.  It's Safety.  I do help out once in awhile with a production issue, especially since I am the only representative on site from the Prime Contractor.  But I try to let the Sub-Prime's Superintendent do most of the work.  I just work with him and his subcontractor.  What we call a 2nd tier Subcon.  

My day normally starts out by reporting to our company's field office on the base prior to 0630.  Yeah, that's early.  I do some reports, especially now that we are now hard wired with internet instead of wifi.  Also, now that I can scan my reports.  We're trying to change that.  I'm out of the office by 0645 and heading to my job site.  

Sitting in my car, waiting for the rain to stop. 

At the job site, I walk the fence line first.  Check for any discrepancies from the afternoon before or the Friday before, after a weekend.  Since we're doing excavation and trenching operations.  I inspect the trench along the top side looking for any tell tale signs that will lead to a collapse.  When the guys start coming in just before 0700.  I keep an eye on each one as they cross my gate, checking their PPE from head to toe.  A simple reminder usually has them putting on their gloves, eye protection, and sometimes a helmet.  

The 2nd tier sub con is really good about their safety culture.  I really enjoy working with them.  You can really see the difference between a company that has no safety program and a company that has one and enforces their safety program.  

I'm still doing safety training courses with the company for our subcontractors.  Those are fun too.  The preparation is a lot harder when scheduling needed safety courses.  It's not easy doing research when your exhausted from work.  

One of many rain storms that passed through my job site.  

On Columbus Day, I conducted a corporate safety training which involved the following safety topics: MUTCD Flagging, Excavation and Trenching, Accident Investigation, and the Focused Four, for all our Site Safeties, QC's, Program Manager's, Superintendents, and Office staff.  

This past Friday, I conducted MUTCD Flagger Certification Course for our subcontractors.  Now majority of our flaggers are certified.  I even changed the Flagger PPE and raised the standard for our subcontractors to follow.   I'll conduct another class for those subcontractors who didn't make the training last Friday.  It was a good thing they didn't show up.  We could only fit 8 workers in our trailer training room.  

Unfortunately, being a SSHO has it's downside.  Writing up unsafe workers, recommending suspension or termination, working through lunch because a work crew is still working, working in the rain, and sometimes working late.  All the same, I still enjoy my work and the people I work with.  

GCA 20th Family Picnic

I think I have sunburn on my earlobes again.  Starting to sting a bit.

My niece, Ris, and I went down to GCA's 20th Family Picnic at Ypao Beach today.  The food was great!  The games were fun to watch.  Ris and I were hanging out at the main pavilion when we got there.  Ate some food there.  Then we watched this Alaskan dude sweat it out in our humidity as he played his electric violin.  That was awesome.

We walked around after that show.  Saw the face painting being done next to the main pavilion.  Snow Cones, Ice Cream, and colorful cotton candy were an all time kids favorite.  There was a line to the power wheels play area.  They have a nice racing circuit.  We walked by the Hensel Phelps/Granite Tent.  Nice food there.  We saw different companies, whose employees that I've trained, Toltest, DCK, CMS, IAN's, NIPPO, and others that were there.

A lot of my students from my various safety training courses were coming up to me greeting me and shaking my hand.  It was good to see each of them.  I'm glad that many of them are moving up in their respective companies.  We moved towards IAN's Construction.  A close family friend is the safety manager there.  Inas, who his workers call, Chief invited us to eat and drink.  I stood underneath the shadow of the huge tree talking to Inas and some of his workers, who I've trained.  Ris, went to sit down and talk with Liz, Inas's wife.  We're very close to the family.  That's where we parked ourselves for the duration of the picnic.

We watched some volleyball competition set up by GCA between the participating companies.  After more chesaing, drinking beer (Root beer, for me), and shop talk.  We walked over to see the tug-of war competition.  ICC seemed the dominant crew in the competition.  Two more games, then IAN's went up to compete.  I was surprised that they won.  We left soon after.

All in all it was a great day.

Project HATSA Cycle 1 and 2 Graduation Ceremony

Yesterday, I attended the graduation ceremony of the students who were part of the Project HATSA Program from our local community college here on the island. It was great to see my students from Cycles 1 and 2 again. The ladies all looked stunning and the guys were just as spiffy.

As I walked around the banquet hall shaking each of their hands or greeting each one of them. I remembered my first day with each of the cycles. Cycle 1 students had that cautious frustrating eye about them. They seemed guarded. Cycle 2, were all young at heart, unsure of themselves but ready to try anything. Hearing both of the their stories of their past, their struggles, and overcoming challenges. All I could do was to edify and encourage them. Both cycles have come a long way.

I greeted colleagues who have implemented or supported the program from the Department of Public Health or the college. It was great to meet the people behind the scenes.

As the ceremony started, both cycles lined up outside the doors to the banquet hall. As pomp and circumstance began to play, the students marched into the room, turned at the stage and faced the audiences. After they took their seats, we listened to lots of speeches that morning. I particularly liked the speeches from the Acting Governor, Lt. Governor Ray Tenorio, and from the 3 students: Sarah, Heather, and Paula.

These students earned 17 college credits that they can use for whatever degree that is being offered at the community college. That's a lot for a short period of time. The also earned their Construction Technician Certificate and safety certificates for Flagger safety, EM 385-1-1;16 hour safety course, and forklift safety. They earned a lot of credentials that day. I'm happy for each one of them.

The Project HATSA Program from the Department of Public Health and taught at the community college is a really good program for women making a career change. The program coordinators need to make it great by getting rid of one toxic element. I'm hoping to see all my former HATSA students at the GCA Trades Academy soon. ESTA...

Post Op Recovery

My left hand is doing a lot better. I am typing normally now. Unlike, a couple of days ago, I was doing the one hand-two finger typing with my right hand. My finger tips of my left hand are still numb. Doc says, it'll be like that for a couple of weeks. But feeling to my whole hand is back. Haven't taken any pain meds this morning, so the pain is there but really slight. I mean, I'm typing even with the pain. Yesterday, I gave myself a scare. Made a stupid decision to work Camera 4 during the morning service. I should have sat out and rested. Bur for some reason, I decided I was good enough to return. Yesterday afternoon, my left hand was in terrible pain. Even with 800 mg of pain meds to counter the pain I was feeling, I wanted to head to the ER to get it looked at. I waited it out. I reasoned with myself that if it was still really sore this morning then I'll head in to see the doc. But waking up this morning...no pain. My first thought was...did my hand fall off?! I couldn't feel it. Nope...it was still there attached to my wrist. As I tried to shake the sleepiness from my eyes. It was my right hand that was in pain...must've slept on it during the night. My 2 year old son, Frenz, freaked out the other night while chatting with Rhoda via Webcam. I had waved to him with my right hand. He exclaimed to his mommy that daddy's hand is completely healed. There is nothing there, like before. He didn't realize that I waved with my right hand and not my left. He and his sister, told me the night after my surgery that I'm healed. I'll be okay. I'm claiming that healing! ESTA

Awesome Week

A lot has happened in the last week. I signed in to a new career, with a new construction company on island on Monday. Their from the mainland. A move that will definitely help me and my family. The position is a Site Safety and Health Officer. I prefer Site Safety and Health Leader. Trust me, the change in words does wonders in team building. The next day, I had CTS surgery at the Surgery Center. I was originally scheduled for 12 noon. We got there at 1000, and waited. 1145, went in, and was prepped. Thought, I was going in at 1200...told it will be 1230. Got tired counting the dots on the ceiling tile. Found out it was 1400, asked a nurse what was going on. She came back and told me that the doctor is still working on the previous patient with a really bad fracture on his arm. Doc came out around 1500, examined me, and got me ready to go in. At 1530, I was wheeled into the O.R. I remember the anesthesiologist asking if I was comfortable. Next thing, I remember was hearing the doc saying, "Amazing muscle structure...". I moved my head to see...I'm out again. Then I wake up later on in Post Op. The next day was a follow-up appointment for my surgery. Doc was great explaining what he did. Have another follow-up, this Wednesday. Started teaching an EM 385-1-1, 16 hour safety course to a new client. They're a referral from another company. Amazing how many training requests that we're getting and we're not actively marketing. All this training is from our warm market. Doing a 40 hour safety training with the same company, this week. The students in this last class,as with all my classes, were great. They asked many questions about unsafe scenarios that they were involved in. It was also great to hear the president of the company support a "Zero Tolerance Injury Philosophy as part of their Safety Culture". Saturday, yesterday, I was scheduled to teach another class. However, the company postponed to a later date. Since it was payday weekend, I did the routine things, took care of Rhoda and the kids. After that was done and doing some errands, I decided to splurge on myself. Since it was a beautiful day outside. I went to watch a movie, "The Expendables 2". I bought some nachos with cheese and jalapenos. It's really not the same, when they don't splatter the nachos and jalapenos with the melted cheese. This one, you had to dip it. Sucky! Anyway, it came with a large drink. I got my fill of sugar for the next year there. Not good...next time, I'll eat at the food court before watching a movie. Anyway, the movie itself was great. Lots of action, shooting, bombs going off, fighting, and blood. I especially like the guys head blowing up at the beginning. Being an old warrior, I thought that was pretty cool, even though it did trigger some of my own unwanted memories. After finishing Expendables 2, I treated myself to another movie, "The Bourne Legacy". That was another cool awesome movie. I didn't like the lady behind me giving the narrative to her family members. She didn't have to announce to the whole theater that she didn't like her former homeland. Later that evening, I attended the company dinner of my new company at the Fiesta Resort. I met a lot of the managers, supervisors, and the Corporate Safety and the other SSHO. The other 3 SSHO's didn't attend. The Vice-President presided over the dinner with the Superintendent. One of the PM's was a former student of mine from last year. I had a great talk with the Corporate Safety from Corporate HQ's. Dinner was awesome...enjoyed the buffet. Especially like the lechon, fried chicken, lumpia...all the food was great. I learned that the company is expanding. Especially with the project that I am assigned too. The move into Southeast and Southwest Asia really got my attention. This company is a blessing to me and my family. I'm looking forward to working with a great team and leading safety. ESTA...

Exodus Again.

For those who have continuously followed my blogs, I'm moving here from Multiply. This is my 2nd Exodus since Y360. Hopefully, this will be the new blog home for my page. We'll see. So in the mean time, enjoy the blogs I post. ESTA...

Multiply announced they're focusing on eCommerce. We'll be able to download our blogs, pics, videos, and others or migrate them over. I may migrate over to Blogger...I have an account there. Read the yellow banner on top of your multiply page for more details. It's been fun y'all...time to do the great exodus again.

We're in the process of cleaning up Matua Ranch. Spent to much time down at the other ranch. I still go there to help out a bit. Now, I'm focusing on my ranch. Getting ready to order my own egg layers in September.

Traffic Work Zone Incident

Yesterday, students from my Cycle 2 class were working on their operator skills on 3 pieces of heavy equipment: Skid Steer, Backhoe, and mini excavator.  It was a really hot and humid day.  We were along the road, next to the campus, playing with a stockpile of dirt.  Although, the students were done with my safety course for the day.  I stayed back to act as the Site Safety, while the Heavy Equipment Instructor did some one-on-one instruction time with all the students with the mini-excavator. 

At the same time, I went around the "job site" taking pictures of each student as they took turns practicing on each of the heavy equipment.  All of them were having fun on the equipment or hanging out under the shade of the nunu tree patiently awaiting their turn.  

While taking pictures of the current students on the backhoe and skid steer.  Some of the students under the shade tree got my attention that a green tinted sedan ran over one of our traffic safety cones.  The first thing I did was take a look where the cone was knocked over and made sure not one of my students was hit.  Good thing it was just the cone.  

The students pointed out the car, as it drove through the back gate of the campus, and parked in the Technology Buildings parking lot.  I watched as the car parked and the driver exited the vehicle. A part of me wanted to jump on the mini-excavator, drive over to that car, and tear it to shreds.  I had to settle with my imagination.  I had to set the proper safety example to my students, remain cool, calm, and collected.  

Everytime, I do work in a Traffic Work Zone.  It never fails.  Some idiot purposely hits the cones, barrels, or barriers.  Back in the mid 1980's we used to put concrete in those traffic devices.  We stopped because people who were hitting them were getting hurt running over our modified traffic devices.  The Feds didn't want the contractors injuring Joe Public, even though he deserved it.  Now, we have to protect them, the public, and our workers during roadway construction.  I have no qualms with that.  But the idiot drivers, should be fined and their vehicles impounded.  

There was enough room for the driver to avoid the cone.  There was no traffic from the opposite direction.  

It's a beautiful Saturday Morning. Nice breeze coming from the Pacific.

Apprenticeship and Goals: Making that roadmap to succeed.

This evening, I deviated from the course material in Basic Rigging to talk to my class about goals.  A lot of them were never taught on how to plan their goals.  How to make a road map to succeed in their careers.  So I took the time to show them. 

First off topic I hit tonight was the Apprenticeship Program.  Like most in my class, I was misinformed and I parroted the misinformation to others.  I once believed that attending classes at GCA Trades Academy meant that they were apprentices.  I held that belief for a long time, until last Thursday.  I prepping for my Basic Safety Class (T/TH) in the conference room.  Then our Education Director comes in with one of my colleagues and starts showing him the Apprenticeship Program model.  I learned a lot of what an Apprentice is and is not. 

An apprentice has to be hired by an employer and registered with a sponsor, enrolled in a school program, and learning skills from OJT's.  All the classes that my students are learning at the academy will help them as they complete each level of their Related Crafts Instruction.  Although, it sounded complicated it really was not. 

An apprentice has to be employed and then enrolled in a school.  Once the apprentice graduates from the program.  It does not stop there.  They now have to study to take their Journeyman's exam to get certified in their chosen field. 

I basically showed my students that steps they need to become an apprentice. 

Then I worked with some on how to make a road map to succeed in their chosen trade.  For those students who have chosed the safety field.  I sat down with them and showed them exactly what safety classes they need to take in and in what order. 

There is so much misinformation floating around out there.  My students needed to know the truth. 



ESTA

CHEAP: All for free coffee.

There has to be something wrong when you go to a grocery store just to drink their free coffee.  Then you brag about it with your other cohorts, who do the same thing, loud enough for people passing by to over hear your conversation.  Hanging out in the entrance aisle like nobody's business.  Not a care in the world. 

Don't you rent an apartment upstairs?  You're a renter, so you do have money.  Or are you that downtrodden.  No, you're just cheap.  Not just any cheap.  But penny pinching cheap. 

Just because they the grocery store provides that service to their customers.  Does not mean you can abuse it.  Just because you can does not mean you should. 

At least, ask one of the grocery store workers for a broom and mop, so you can sweep and mop up the entrance aisle.  Earn that cup of coffee.  Don't be cheap about it. 

Yes, I remember you.  You used to come into my postal service store next door, and swipe the candy in the candy bowl that I left out for my clients.  After 10 years, you have not changed! 

SMH


ESTA

Don't ask me for referrals.

I don't understand some people.  Why ask for referrals for a job, then you don't take the job when it's offered because it is to far from your house?! 

I went out of my way to help someone..  But it appears that they can't take the job because it is to far from their residence.  It's not like they're going to have to walk to work.  That person has an SUV.  For crying out loud, if you can spend on the gas to fill up that truck.  Then you could, should have taken the job. 

This island is not that big.  We can get most anywhere on this island in an hour's drive.  It's not like you live in a state and have to commute 100 miles to work twice a day. Listening to excuses from to far, out of the way, or whatever was exhausting.  

Just tell me the truth.  You're to lazy to work in construction.  Don't waste my time and the company's time.  Oh, here's something since it's close to your house.  McDonald's is looking for a part-time worker.  You should fit just right in. 


Worthless piece of .........


ESTA 

Why?

Earlier, I was looking in my freezer to cook something for lunch.  I started pulling different packages of meat out and putting them on the table.  Along with the meats, I was pulling bag, after bag, of plastic bags.  There was more plastic bags then there were meats.  I even found the bag of fish that my sister, Ris, gave me months ago.  Last year, months ago.  I thought that was eaten or thrown out.  There is a bag of manahak that was under some ice.  I'm gonna eat that tomorrow. 

Why, in the world, are grocery plastic bags being stored in the freezer?!


 

Collaboration didn't work. Focus is now back on Matua Ranch.

Malfunction deters safety course.

I was browsing my blog entries this evening.  I didn't realize it has been awhile since I posted a blog.  My time has been really busy the last couple of weeks with safety trainings. 

I had a class today to teach Forklift Safety.  Everything went well during the classroom portion off the safety course.  All five students took the written exam.  They all passed.  When we went into the Construction Lab of the Trades Facility to do the performance test.  I got the forklift out of the warehouse with a nice sized load for the students to use.  Brought the around forklift to the other side of the building.  Got it set up.  The first student to do the performance test was the only one who passed.  Unfortunately, the forklift had a major malfunction.  It ran out of fuel.  So I was only able to observe one student to do enough to complete the performance test. 

I didn't have much choice but to reschedule the other students for a later date. 

Learned this yesterday. MA108 College Algebra is required for welding students at GCC to get a certificate. Why??? What in the world is a welder going to use algebra in his craft for?

If you thought I was being to hard. Well you deserve it.

A couple of days ago, I was told that I was to hard on the last group of students who failed their safety exams.  In that group of 6, only 1 passed.  I did not teach this group.  I only helped proctor the exam. 

So that day, after I was told that I was to hard on the students who failed.  I reflected on it for some time. 

Yes, I was hard on the five who failed.  They failed an open book exam.  All the answers are in their handouts.  How in the world do you do fail that?  I thought it could have been a comprehension issue.  Well for one student who got 25% wrong.  Yes, maybe he may have comprehension issues.  I'll lean towards the maybe, on that student.  For the other four, they have no excuse.  They answered more than 25% correctly. 

For one student who was looking over my shoulder as I corrected his paper.  He jokingly said to his buddy, "Hahahaha, I failed".  I glanced at him for a second and just shook my head.  I do not think failing is a laughing matter.  It may cost you your job.  The other three guys were all smiles, like there was nothing wrong.  One even commented, "It's okay...we'll take the retest".  He even asked if they can take the retest right then and there. 

I don't know about you.  But I get upset when I get a wrong answer on any of my exams.  Yet, the only person upset among the six, was the only student that passed.  He was upset for getting 4 questions wrong. 

There is something wrong, when the students taking the course, feel it is okay to fail the test, because they know, they will take a retest.  I don't understand that concept. 

I get upset whenever our locals on island...When I say locals, I'm talking about Chamoru, Filipino, Chuukese, Yapese, Palauan, and others who live here and make Guahan their home...I get upset when they don't push themselves to be better than their past.  I've heard all the excuses. 

"I'm a mason.  Why do I need to learn safety?"
"I'm a laborer.  I don't need this."
"I don't use computers, so I know I'll fail".
"I didn't want to be here."
"I don't have any construction experience.  So I don't know."
"What's the point of learning this?  We're not going to do it."
"I'm old school."


There are much more that I have yet to write down.  but you probably get the gist of what I'm getting at. 

I know these folks can do a lot better.  I know they can.  Some people reading this will probably think that I'm crazy.  But I am sick and tired of seeing many locals get passed over by foreigners.  I'm sick and tired of seeing locals doing hard menial labor while the foreigners are in management. 

Yes, it is their responsibility to better themselves.  But as long as I am a Safety Instructor.  I will kick your arse so many times to move you in the right direction.  You're going to have to reach deep inside you to find that spark to motivate yourself to do better, than what you're doing now.

I'm also sorry that you think that I was hard on you.  IF you thought that was hard, You're a panty.  That's not hard.  My MATUA SCOUTS will tell you what hard is from me.  Coming from a construction worker, that I was being hard.  If you can take the time to think of how hard I was towards you, and complain to your supervisors or to the training coordinator on how hard I was towards you.  YOU should have taken the same amount of time if not more to pay attention during the safety course.  So you can PASS  an OPEN BOOK EXAM!!!

I can only guide a horse to water.  I cannot force it to drink. 


Due to the retest issue, I've instructed my GCC safety students.  They can only retest with the next cycle or whenever the department head schedules the retest but not less than 1 week from the previous test. 

Awkward way to run a company.

Months ago, I entered into a private contract with a company here on Guahan.  Actually, it was with the owner of the company and not the company itself.  I figured it was the same thing.  Later on, I learned it was not the same but separate from the company.  I did not understand the big deal of having a private contract between the me and the owner.  When I am actually contracted to provide safety consultations for his company.  That contract didn't last long.  There were provisions in there that only allowed me to conduct certain safety trainings and not others.  When I first wrote that contract up, it was before I became a authorized trainer to teach the USACE EM 385-1-1, 16 and 40 hour courses. 

I was asked to present a new contract proposal to him.  Which I did.  This time, I made sure that the contract gave me the advantage and not the other way around.  When I submitted the contract via my lawyer friend to his lawyer.  We were told several times that it was to many demands and expensive.  That I needed to lower it down some more.  I refused and held fast.  All the fees were below island average.  The owner refused the contract.  Which I was glad. 

Now, weeks later...He has his secretary asking me to submit a proposal for a project.  I am desperately needed as a Safety Officer, according to them. 

I am doing a lot right now, especially with safety trainings.  So I am good to go. 

What is awkward is the secrecy behind this whole thing.  Not one manager in that company knows of the first contract and the new proposal.  It was between me and the owner.  Why hire the managers if you don't trust them?  It just don't make sense.  It's gonna cause miscommunication later down the road. 




ESTA...

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY NEN!

Wishing my wife, Rhoda, A Happy 4th Anniversary.  It's been a fun and challenging adventure these past four years.  I'm so glad to share each moment with her.

I should have known we would be on a wild ride during our marriage.  Especially, when we decided to spend our honeymoon doing White Water Rafting on the Kagayan River.  I'm pretty sure all marriages are like ours.  Just like the Kagayan river, marriage has it's classes of difficulties, from Class 1 calm meandering waterway to a Class 6, a raging waterfall.  It's getting through those obstacles or rapids together in the rubberized raft with close friends to help you steer through or around those rapids on the river of life. 

We conquered each rapid as we paddled through on the river.  A lot of times it was just a class 1, meandering current taking us downstream.  Along the way, we've had numerous bigger rapids.  The Class 2 and 3's we kind of handled ourselves.  The bigger rapids, the 4's, 5's, and sometimes 6's, we depended on Jesus to guide us around or even through each one safely. 

Marriage, like white water river rafting, is a team effort.  Yeah, you could run the river on a kayak by yourself.  It is a lot more fun going down a river with a partner, in this case my wife.  It's more fun when we have our close family and friends with us.  Either in the same raft or on other rafts, next to ours. 

Along the way, people who we considered our friends have jumped ship or beached their raft.  Leaving us to paddle the raft ourselves or continue on our river journey alone.  Those friends were left on the bank of the river as we continued to  paddle our way downstream.  Sooner or later, we were able to meet new friends along the banks who jumped in our raft, to give us a hand. 


On every river expedition, you still need to have a guide.  On our adventure on our river of life, Jesus is our guide.  Everytime, we encountered a class 5 or 6 rapid, or even thought of a 4 as a 5.  We called on our guide to advise us on how to steer our raft.  Many times, He would say, Be Still.  And we did.  We rode out the rapid putting our faith in Him.   When we didn't listen, our raft overturned dunking us into the river.  Rhoda and I learned quickly not to overturn the raft. 

These last 4 years has been an amazing adventure.  I am so glad to be sharing it with Rhoda.  It's not an easy journey.  Especially, that we have a long distance marriage.  You can only imagine how many class 5 and 6 rapids we conquered with the help of Jesus, guiding us. Technology has certainly made it easy, not that easy, but easy, mind you.  We chat almost daily, sometimes texting, emails, or calling each other.  Unlike the days of the snail mail of the 80's and early 90's. 

I'm looking forward to more high adventures with Rhoda and our children. 

I LOVE YOU NEN.  HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Our honeymoon adventure on the honeymoon raft. 

It's good to enjoy your river trip with close friends and family with you in the raft. 

















The ladies cooling off under the waterfalls.  Rhoda, Mele, Alex, and Rizza. 

Each stop along the river's edge brings its rewards.  












We went from two to three. 

















Then three to four.  We're praying to get more, naturally from within us to add to our own.  I want 12. 











Keep Smiling

I must have punched the headboard the other night. Wrist is really sore moving it laterally, up, and down. Have to look for my wrist brace tomorrow. Glad I didn't break it.

Frenfren's Chicken

I thought giving our son Frenfren a chicken to take care of, was a great idea.  Even though he is only 2 years old, he really enjoys helping out and feeding the chickens.  He started off watching the new day old baby chicks as the men in the compound built cages for them.  The chicks actually belong to the property caretaker, where we stay at.  In return for helping him, my brother-in-law was given some chicks to raise. 



As the weeks turned into months, Frenfren would help with the morning chores feeding the chicks.  He would get so concerned with the chicks and their feed.  He didn't think they were getting enough to eat.  So he'll go back in the house and get the leftovers in the refrigerator and feed the chicks, the family's food or breakfast for that morning.






When the kids were getting ready to go to the family's province.  Frenfren decided that since he will not be home to feed his chicken, he will bring his chicken with him on vacation.  So the chicken, our two kids, and their Uncle Ronald rode the 5+hour long bus all the way to Butuan City. 

When Rhoda first told me that our boy took his chicken with him on vacation.  I thought, ok...that's a little bit weird.  It's okay.  I never thought that that chicken would find it's way back home to  CDO.  The sensible approach would be to leave the chicken at the family compound.  No, not my son, Frenfren, he decided again, that the chicken will go back with him.  He can be very persuasive..  That chicken made it's way back to the family home in CDO.  That's the only chicken that I know of, that rode a bus round trip and not end up inside a pot. 

That chicken is no longer livestock.  It's become a pet. 



Keep Smiling

Raising up our Children.

A couple weeks ago, my family had eaten spaghetti cooked by a close family friend, Dolly.  It must have been really good because my son, Frenfren, picked that dish over his mommy's spaghetti dish.  Everytime they ask him, if Dolly's spaghetti is good.  Frenfren would say, yes.  When asked which spaghetti dish is better, his mommy's or Dolly's.  Fren would reply, Ate Dolly. 

The other day, Rhoda tried again asking Frenfren, which spaghetti dish he liked...her's or Ate Dolly.  Frenfren replied, Ate Dolly. 

Rhoda replied back, "Aiii...bad".

Frenz said, "Mommy, I'm not bad.  I'm only telling the truth". 

ROFLOL!!! 

I could not help but laugh at Rhoda's account to me of that day.  I have to admit, We raised our children up really good. 

The other night.  Rhoda was invited to a monthly celebration close to her church.  When she told her brother that they are going there for dinner. 

Frenfren hurriedly stood up and said, "Wow good food again, let's go papa Bebot".  He calls his uncle/nino (godfather), papa. 

ROFL...

Larraine does the same thing.  She speaks her mind and tells the truth.  Sometimes, her timing is really off when she does, especially when she just speaks her mind.  But what can we do.  We taught her to tell the truth, always.  Now were trying to teach her about discretion.  Its no easy. 

I'm really proud of Rhoda for raising our children up without me there.  Larraine and Frenz are very well behaved for their age.  I have to commend her for doing a great job. 



Keep Smiling. 

Stopped by my Cellphone provider this afternoon. Looked over the Samsung Galaxy S2 and reviewed my contract. I maybe getting a new phone in two months.

My take on the information of Guahan's Military Buildup

It never fails whenever I head to the other ranch or meet people at events.  That one of the topics we talk about is the military buildup.  I hear their concerns about the buildup.  All of their concerns are legit.  It seems most if not all are fearful of change. 

My disclosure:  I personally support the buildup, as long as the military stays inside their current footprint. 

Anyway, some of my primo's and friends really believe what they print in the media.  IMHO, if I should do that, I would get a severe migraine from all the back and forth about the buildup itself.  It's going to happen, It's not going to happen...back and forth.  The story always changes depending on whose side you're look at it from. 

The U.S. military does not have to give proper notice to us, island residents, of who and what they will assign to this island.  It's nice that they are doing it now.  But they don't have to tell us anything. 

Now some can believe the local, regional, and national news about the media.  I personally don't take anything in the media to seriously now-a-days.  There is a lot of misinformation going on with almost everyone regarding this on going military buildup. 

I used to be an assigned driver for my regiments signal officer while stationed at Ft. Bragg.  Later, when I went to Germany, I was assigned to drive the Command's Sergeant Major and as an alternate driver  to the commanding general.  Since those days, I've learned never to trust much that is printed in the media. 

The US military does not divulge it's operational plans to the public.  A lot of this posturing that is going on is done at the federal level and our local politicians want to get in on the action.  Majority of the information coming out of DOD is misinformation.  They will only tell us enough of what they want us to know. 

So all this hoopla about the military buildup will settle down. 

If you really want to know about the military buildup.  I can only suggest that  you watch and observe what is going on inside the bases.  A lot of the construction being done is not even buildup related. 

Ranch: Update on Scout

Since I last posted about Scout.  I noticed that his hearing came back the other day.  Also, he is barking again.  He still has the shakes though.  It looks like he is recovering from his misadventure.  I'll give him more time to recover and heal up.  Good thing that I didn't just react to his earlier condition.  Looks like the relocation is doing him some good too.  

Ranch: Discovered ranch dog, Scout aka Brownie is deaf.

Since moving Scout a couple of weeks ago to his new perimeter post from his old run line.  I felt that something was not right with him.  I just brushed it off as stress from the heat.  Each day, since moving him, I would normally call out to him before approaching his post.  He never came out of his dog house.  Weird...normally he'll coming running and challenging the integrity of his lead.  I brushed it off as stress again.  Thinking that he was not happy being relocated to his new perimeter post. 

Today, I finally realized after I kept calling to him, whistling, calling his name.  And then walking right in front of his house, he came out when he saw me.  I knew right then...he's deaf. 

I was hoping to train him into a hunting dog, like his dam, Duchess.  Now, just thinking about it.  I never heard him barking on the South Side.  I figured he had that area under control.  No wonder that Dinga Tres, Toron Binadu (6 point deer buck) got past him.  Scout never heard him.  It all makes sense now.  The only time Scout would actually bark, is when he probably sees anything that's not supposed to be in his or close to his area. 

Rissa informed me this evening during dinner.  That Scout was recovering from choking a couple of weeks ago when he was still on the runner.  I remember someone had rerouted his lead in between the cable run.  So he won't run back and forth on his runner.  He probably got his lead chain twisted it up that caused a choking hazard.  That explains the collar rash around his neck.  It was severe.  Again, I thought it was the flies that caused the collar rash, similar to what the flies do to the goats.  They lay their eggs on the goats...causing a maggot infestation.  I thought the same thing happened to Scout. 

Now everything makes sense on why Scout is now deaf.  Someone rerouted his chain lead, that caused him to choke on his collar from the twisting and then severe chaffing into his neck.  I know who did it.  Everytime that person does something on the ranch to make convenient for them.  I have to change it back to what I want.  I'm going to fence off the ranch from the house and keep them out. 

I have to decide what I am going to do with a deaf ranch dog. 

Saturday's Escapade from the heat.

Niece Arissa and I went and ran errands today.  We went to Ross at GPO this morning.  I looked around and bought two really nice shirts.  One shirt, an island print, I'll wear for tomorrow night's graduation ceremony.  The other shirt, I'll use when I am teaching.  While waiting in line, I met up with Pastor Clint and his son, Renren.  Arissa ran into Kristine, Clint's wife behind me in the checkout line.  We looked around at the two shoe stores.  I didn't see the boots I wanted.  So it was agreed that my current boots will suffice for the graduation ceremony. 

We had eaten a large breakfast that morning that Rissa had cooked up.  So we were still full when lunch time rolled around.  We decided to head over to Yogurtland to get some frozen yogurt and hide from the heat.  Yogurtland is my once a month treat to myself.  So I got the big cup.  Ris, got the Medium cup.  That was a refreshing treat.  Note to self:  Chocolate Mocha yogurt does not go well with tangarine tango, mango mix, and coconut yogurts.  Do not mix that in the future.  I'll keep the other three flavors next time.  Rissa had the Root Beer float yogurt.  I'll try that next time. 

It was funny seeing Clint, Kristine, and their kids walk into Yogurtland.  We got a chance to fellowship while they enjoyed their yogurt treats.  It was just nice and cool inside. 

At Home Depot, Ris and I got her PPE; safety goggles, and mask, for her lab assignment at school.  She's going to be dissecting frogs.  I got some nails for my home projects.  We ran into Bro. John, Kaelani, and her best friend Tricia.  Bro. John was shopping around for a dog kennel for the German Shepherd they got the other day.  Also, ran into Pastor Billy at the Contractor's Desk.  He was doing some shopping too. 

Funny how we ran into church family on our outing today. 

On the way, home, I stopped by the Vietnamese restaurant and ordered my tray of lumpia for tomorrow's graduation refreshments.  I pray it'll be enough. 

Special thanks to my sister Marissa.  Yes, the VIP's helped out a lot today.  Thank you...much love. 


Keep Smiling... 

Ranch: Eastside Clean up progressing.

Been busy today with the on going clean up on the Eastside of my house.  We did a lot in two days.  Still a lot more to go.  But it is one step at a time.

Arissa and I resumed our burning of yard debris.  Yeah, I know we should compost but we have too much to compost.  Yet, I still have to burn to smoke my mango trees to keep the insects away.  We used the chainsaw to cut more unwanted brush and trees.  It's looking a lot better.

That one planter that we were prepping yesterday.  We added dried mango leaves to the rabbit manure layer, today.  Then we wet it down again.  I want the worms in the manure to  stay healthy.  Next, will be to add potting mix.  I'll have to double check on the approve potting mix for organic production.  We plan to grow red onions and garlic in that planter. 

I had a source of compost to put into that planter.  But it has been contaminated with other junk.  That's what happens when family members think that compost pile is a trash can.  They have no concept of composting.  So I'll have to incinerate that compost pile soon. 

We moved most of the pots away from the planter today.  Not much growing in those pots, only weeds.  We have a really old aluminum extension ladder that we acquired years ago in the '70's.  I moved that away from the area and into the main ranch area and propped it up against a mango tree.  I'm gonna use that for any vegetable vines that I'll grow. 

Arissa and I collected some young coconut saplings, transferred and planted them along the street on the property line/border.  I plan to plant more coconut saplings on another line inside the property line but staggered from the line closest to the road.  These will be future live fence posts for livestock. 

New Goal:  Prep and plant one garden plot each week. 


Keep Smiling

Ranch: Cleaning Eastside of the House.

Catching up on my cleaning.  I worked on the Eastside of the house today.  Did a lot of burning.  Have a big coconut stump to get rid of.  I could compost it.  But, I do have to smoke my mango tree daily to get rid of those pesky insects.  

I cut down all the violet brushes on that side, pulling out some ornamental taro, and cleaned out one of the planters.  My niece/god-daughter, Arissa helped me out.  Lot of ranch training needed for that girl.  Reminded me of when her brother, AJ, started working the ranch.  We did okay.  Still progressing forward. 

New goal is to put up a new row of vegetables each weekend.  That should get us ready year round.  We do have Local Mangoes ready, harvested a couple and enjoyed eating each one.  Waiting for my big Vietnamese Mango tree.  Fruits are slowly getting big.  That's going to be my daily breakfast. 

I'll post pics of our on-going project later this week. 



Keep Smiling

"45 lessons life taught me and five to grow on" by Regina Brett

"1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short -- enjoy it.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Stay true to yourself.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything which isn't useful. Clutter weighs you down in many ways.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to be happy. But it's all up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive but don't forget.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. Accept what you already have not what you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

46. Use your God-given gifts and talents and serve people.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."


Regina Brett  2006, 2009.

Opportunity to teach for my Alma Mater.

Yesterday, I received a call from my Alma Mater for an opportunity to teach with them.  I'm elated with the referral.  It never dawned on me that I would get a call from them asking me to teach.  It has always been a dream of mine to go back to teach for this college but as a JROTC instructor.  When I left the army, after 8 years, instead of retiring, I knew that dream would never happen.  Now, it's a great possibility. 

Electronics and Electrical were fun classes while I was a young student in my teens.  Working with my hands and building things were awesome back then.  Now, I may have the opportunity to give back as an instructor there.   

The courses are all set for the evening schedule,1700 to 2000 (5 to 8 pm), Monday to Friday.  So it doesn't interfere with my commitment to OSH Solutions or my safety clients during the day.

Just getting the referral is an awesome feeling.  It's a good feeling to know that certain people are keeping an eye on what I do.  Especially, now that I'm in the Construction Safety Field. 



Keep Smiling

PM-Scheduling.

I was able to complete my homework earlier to day.  It was for my Project Management Class in Scheduling.  That was a hard assignment.  Since Wednesday last week, I was struggling with it.  Today, I was finally able to  figure it out. Instead of trying to do it in my head.  I just started doing it on paper to help me with my motivation.   Sure enough, it worked. 

At class this evening, we went through it together.  I was short by $1000. I miscalculated the vehicle rentals and the OT.  I was also a day early in completing the case study.  However, I now understand how to do scheduling for construction. 

This evening we had a surprise exam.  I thought we were going to do the exam on Wednesday.  All the students decided to take it. I wanted more time to study.  but decided to go with the group.  Anyway, I passed my test!

Now our class is down to 2 modules.  Only 4 sessions to go, approximately 2 to 3 weeks left. 

Rosa > Rose > Rhoda

Last night I wanted to surprise my Neni Girl (Larraine), that her mommy was coming home on Monday and not last night.  So to throw her off.  I told her that my friend Rosa will come by later that night to drop something off for her mommy.

My neni girl, being the great beautiful daughter that she is to me and her mommy, took me seriously.  She told her uncle, that my friend Rosa was coming over to drop something off for her mommy.  It did not occur to Larraine that I was talking about her mommy. 

So just a few minutes ago, Larraine asked me when Rosa is coming to the house.  I told her that she met her last night. 

"Are you joking or not", replied Larraine. 

So I had to explain to her that Rosa means Rose.  Rose in Greek is Rhoda. 

Larraine told me that her uncle was up late waiting for Rosa last night.  

"Oh...I'm sorry", was my reply. 

I have to remember that my neni girl takes me seriously.  LOL. 

Misadventure. 




Keep Smiling 

All in a Week's Work.

Been pretty busy last week and this weekend.  That's a good thing.  I was teaching the Construction Safety Awareness Course for Contractors, with 5 other Instructors last week.  That was a fun course.  We had great interaction with the students.  I really enjoy the interaction time between me and the students.  It tells me that the students are interested in the course and ask questions relevant to the topic being taught, and that they are concerned about the Safety Program in their companies.  It was also great that the OSH Solution's instructor cadre came out to teach this course.  I always learn something new from the students themselves or the other instructors.  I'm looking forward to the next course. 

I was really busy on Saturday.  I helped out with prepping a single topic safety course for a local construction company here on island.  The instructor did pretty well delivering his course main points.  The students all passed.  But it was in the beginning when I overheard one of the students as the instructor if there was any openings with his company.  I literally laughed out loud.  I don't think the guy was joking.  But he said this right in front of his Safety Manager.  I was like..."Dude, you're crazy!". 

After that safety course was done, my niece, Arissa and I went and did some needed errands.  Then I dropped her to her soccer game.  I went over next door to the swimming pool to see my godson/nephew, Joe and his 1 year old daughter, my grandniece.  The family was celebrating her first birthday.  It was great to see them. 

When that was done, We booked it home.  I went over next door and started helping out with the renovations.  I only got a few hours of work in...so I told my friend, that I will commit the next day to him, to help get his house inspection ready for the realtor's inspection in a couple of days. 

Today of all days, I was across the street helping my friend get his house ready for inspection.  We've been renovating his house for a couple of weeks already.  We did a lot of work.  But there is still so much to do.  Most of it is done on weekends, since that is when most of boys are free.  I have to make time tomorrow to fix an electrical issue.  We've been working all day.   Arissa was helping out painting.  We had to prep our ranch area first before going over to  make room for some cages and large tin to store and later use.  So we cut down some trees and open a temporary path for the cages and tin to come in from across the roadway.  After everything was brought into my ranch.  I closed up that temporary opening.  What a difference the work makes to see the improvements on the house and backyard. 

The former caretaker came by yesterday to lay claim on some items.  He made a comment to me that the place looks nice now compared to before.  I had to bite my tongue to keep from replying.  But in my head, I said to myself, "It was cleaner before you took over".  He didn't do a thing to maintain the front and backyards.  He neglected the work.  Out of respect for Greg and his dad, I kept quiet and walked away. 

Have to finish working on my power point slides for Fall Protection.  Teaching this week.  Looking forward to this training. 


Keep Smiling  

It's a beautiful sunny tropical day outside!

Leading Horses to water.

It's funny to hear people tell me that I'm making the big bucks as a safety consultant.  "You're raking in the money!", they claim.   That's a lot further from the truth.  I wish I was, but I am not.  One day by God's grace, I will. 

This week, I spent my time helping my neighbor Greg, get his house ready to put on the rental market.  There is a lot of work to do.  One day at a time, we're getting the priorities done.

The last two days, I've been following up on potential clients in regards to safety trainings/consultations.  It's amazing how all of them think alike.  The thing is, I can lead a horse to water, but I can't force it to drink.  I gave these companies, the owners or safety managers, the information they needed to bring their safety culture up to the next level. AND, I gave those information pro bono.  If they were dealing with any of my other safety colleagues, they'll be charged for their time and information.  These companies that I am approaching are not strangers.  They are friends and relatives.   I'm sharing information because I care about each one of them and their employees.  They don't have to hire me, but take the information that I freely gave to you and put it to use. 

It's the same lame excuses:

• We don't have time.
• We're too busy with our projects.
• Safety costs too much. 
• Our profit margin will be smaller if we do safety.
• We'll call you when we do actually need you.

I hear that from managers/owners who come into my safety training courses trying to justify their reasons not to do safety.  They only came in because NAVFAC Safety forced them to as part of the requirement to bid on military contracts. 

"How much are you willing to pay for a life?", that is my question to each one of them.  How much are you willing to pay for a life of an employee who dies in your job site?  Is it worth the OSHA citation?  It's amazing when I hear an owner tells his lawyer to go ahead and pay the OSHA fine.  You're willing to pay the OSHA fine but not buy proper PPE or Safety equipment to keep your employees safe.  Something is wrong there.  I should know because I used to work for that company as an electrician. 

The bottom line is what these companies are focusing on.  It will always be about the money.  The thing is, there is nothing wrong with that.  But with proper planning and wise investments in safety, they can make more profit with a positive safety culture. 

I know of a stateside company, that is now on Guahan, who was awarded a huge military contract.  Yet, they did not have a Safety Plan in place.  They, the prime contractor, asked the subcon (subcontractor) to write the safety plan for them.  Something is really wrong with that picture. 

What is the costs of basic PPE per employee: hardhat, reflective vest, safety glasses, gloves, and ear plugs?  Average costs on island is about $200.  There was a company here that was fined $32,000 for not providing their employees proper PPE.  How many PPE can you buy for $32,000?  Alot, about 15 sets! This is just one of many examples that I use in my safety trainings. 

Here is my prediction for the five companies that I have been visiting.  They will call me or another safety consultant when one or combination of the following will happen. 

• NAVFAC will require some type of safety training credentials that they have to produce.
• They will get cited by OSHA or NAVFAC for a serious or IDLH safety violation.
• They have a serious injury on the job site. 
• They just had a serious safety incident.
• They have a death in the job site.  (I don't wish this on any company but this happens when there is no safety program in place, or it's not enforced.)

It's time to move on to other companies.  I've dealt with these companies for more than two months.  After this week, should they call me again.  I will send them my consultation contract for consulting services.  Once, they sign it.  I'll help them out, then I'll invoice them for services rendered. 

I got a call yesterday from a new company.  Let's see what comes of this. 


Keep Smiling






 

Thank you Lord for keeping me alert and my driving reactions swift to avoid that pedestrian 30 minutes ago on Marine Corps Drive, by KFC in Dededo. Forgive me for cursing and blowing my horn at him as I narrowly avoided him by inches. Forgive me also for thinking to getting out of my car to beat him up. Thank you for just letting me drive away and calming me down the rest of the drive back home. Thank you Lord.

So close and it got away. A Toron Binadu was in the North Side of the ranch behind the store by the big coconut trees. All the dogs were barking. Stormie my perimeter dog was going nuts...growling, trying to snap at the toro. He was no more than 25 feet away. I could smell him. I couldn't shoot blindly, yet I knew where he was at. He was stomping the ground. He finally went to the Barcinas old property. If the neighbors were not awake and outside their houses...I would have taken the shot, if I had a clean sight picture. It's okay. There is always next time.

Deja Vu all over again. Went through this 12 years ago. Let's see if history repeats itself.

Leaders! With today's technology, we have texting, cell phones, emails, skype, voice chat, satellite connections, and other electronic means for us to effectively communicate with our team and subordinates. Please use one or all systems to effectively communicate with your team. Failure to do so causes miscommunication.

Major TV Ministry Challenge.

This morning I learned that our two directors for the TV ministry were not on island.  I didn't even know they left for vacation for three to four weeks.  To be told to operate the TV controls and and run one camera 10 minutes prior to service starting was a bit stressful. 

The last time I sat on the Director's chair was years ago.  During ROTV's first training with Sis. Hannita and Sis. Trixie.  That was just a familiarization course to let us feel how the director feels behind the controls. 

I am thankful to Pastor Eric and Bro. Marjune for getting the TV system up and running.  Pastor Rick helped get Alpha Cam (camera) online.  I helped with the White Balance and the AE settings for the camera.  Sis. Loida helped with the fade in and outs for the screen shots.  We got the system recording a couple of minutes late but we did good.  I don't know the quality of the recording.  I just know we got the service recorded. 

It's only through prayer and God's grace that today's shoot/recording was not a dud. 

After service, I talked with Pastor Rick and Bro. Ricky regarding next Sunday's shoot/recording.  We have a plan.  We will be able to retrieve Charlie Cam and the radios to use next Sunday. 

I'm not going to take credit for being the Director for today.  This was a major team effort with Video/Audio and TV ministries.  Again, Thanks to Pastor Eric, Bro. Marjune, Sis. Loida, Pastor Rick for helping to get this production recording done this morning.  Special Thanks to the Holy Spirit for getting rid of that stress during Praise and Worship. 


Keep Smiling

Soccer, Rodeo, and Renovations.

It was a beautiful and busy day today,

Watched my niece Arissa's soccer game.  I was able to take some pictures and a short video recording using her new camera.  Not bad for a digital camera, It has a lot of bells and whistles on it.  As for the game, Ris did okay up until she got stepped on by another player from the opposing team.  She was down for a couple of minutes.  But got up and shook it off.  After that, Ris had spurts of energy try to get at the ball.  I could tell she was hurting.  Been there, years ago, when I played for my unit during the Post League at Ft. Bragg.  Anyway, the team needs a lot of work in team development.  I don't blame the players.  That's the coaches job to do.  Hopefully, the team will get better as the season moves forward. 

After the game, we made a quick stop at the Guam Contractor's Association's Construction Rodeo at the Guam Raceway Park.  They were still setting up their booths and competition areas.  As I walked around, I spotted a lot of safety violations.  I understand that this is a rodeo type event and should be fun, and it is not a construction job site.  But what are we telling the public when they come to watch these events.  It's okay.  We are safe on the job site.  However, events like these, we put safety to the side.  I don't agree.  Seeing Electrical cords on the ground presenting a trip hazard or  having one electrical cord tap into another electrical cord because the first one was short and they need a longer run.  Heavy Equipment operators were not wearing their seat belts and/or hearing protection devices.  People standing on chairs to put up or fix banners.   Hopefully, the day progressed and the corporate safeties took control of their men's safety and health welfare. 

After we got back home, I went across the street to Greg's house to help him with his renovation project.  I did some painting on the roof putting down elastomeric roof paint.  Helped Greg take out the washer, dryer, and stove from inside the house to the garage.  Later in the afternoon, Primo Ferdinand and I brought the dryer to my house.  I may keep it.  Most likely, I'll clean it up a bit and then sell it for about $50.  It's still running and the body is in good condition.  When the new light fixtures are in, I'll be installing them. 

I'll be getting some equipment and supplies from Greg for my ranch.  I will also be adopting his dog, Shorty.  Getting another Shorty.  Really nice ranch dog.  Gonna train him, when I finally get him. 


Keep Smiling

Have to stop being Stupid, and just Love my Wife.

There are times when I really am upset at myself.  Especially when it comes to how I treat my wife and kids.  For the life of me, I don't know how Rhoda puts up with all the baloney I dish out.  It's not until after I cool down after a heated discussion that I realize what a jerk I've been to my wife.  All I have to do is shut my mouth, keep my pride in check, and Listen.  But do I do that.  No.  I do stupid things, jump to conclusions, and stress out Rhoda. 

I have to keep my temper in check and remember this lady is the one, Jesus chose for me.  She accepted me, for me -- "As Is", and married this battle weary Warrior.  I have to constantly remind myself, that Rhoda is my wife, not one of my troopers.

 I do love Rhoda.  I have to do more for her.  I have to love her as Christ loved the church and keep 1 Corinthians 13:4.  To do anything else is not love. 

Rhoda has done more in keep our family together and raising our children, than I have.  I do appreciate her.  I can't do what she does.  My last trip home in September...5 minutes playing with my son and I was tired.  Frenfren wore me out.  I had to surrender, give him back to his mommy.  Yet, Rhoda can handle him the whole day.  She also tutors Larraine late in the evening.  Am I there to do that?  No.  Yet, whenever it gets stressful.  I take out my stress on her.  I have to learn to stop doing that.

One day, God willing, Rhoda is gonna kick my arse.  And, I'm gonna deserve it.  She punches hard because I showed her how to do some punching drills.  That's why I am hesitant to teach her KAJUKENBO (martial arts). 

Rhoda deserves better.  I have to control my temper.  I have to stop taking her for granted.  With Jesus's help, I'm gonna change for the better.  Rhoda and my kids deserves it.

I will be a Prophet, Priest, Provider, and Protector to my wife and children.  

How much is a life worth?

I had a meeting with an OSHA official in regards to safety violations with a company that called me in, to help them.  For the last month, I've been helping --pro bono-- the new safety manager to get his company moving towards a positive safety culture.   So with today's meeting, we discussed safety violations that I've verbally recommended to the safety manager to correct, weeks ago.  As of to date, none have been corrected. 

The owner of this company wants me to come on board part-time, to help them out.  With what, I've seen in that construction company's yard, I'm not so sure that I want to work there.  Sure enough, the violations that I've seen first hand and relayed to the OSHA official is not just serious, but willful.  They know of the safety hazards but decided not to do anything about it. 

Safety violations that I've observed:

• Exposed Electrical Wires  --  IDLH (Imminent Danger to Life and Health)
• Smoking within 50 feet of a fuel tank --  IDLH
• Welder not using welding screens and PPE  --  Serious
• Unqualified Forklift Operators not wearing seatbelt -- IDLH
• Unserviceable ladders 4 each  --  Serious

That's just a few of the serious ones, there are many more safety violations. 

It upsets me everytime I set foot on that compound to see all those safety violation not mitigated/abated..  The safety culture is non-existent in the yard.  Workers are not using the minimum required PPE. 

The safety culture has to start from the top down.  If the owner don't care.  The employees won't care.  And, the owner's goal is be at the same level as the two top construction companies on island.  He better start investing in safety. 

How much are Octogon box covers for the electrical boxes compared to a life? 
How much is a brand new ladder to a life?
How much is it to send an employee to get properly trained in Forklift Safety to a life?

Really sad state of affairs with this company. 

The OSHA Official's advice to me:  Have the Safety Manager invite him to do a courtesy inspection.  I will relay that message to the new Safety Manager. 


Keep Smiling

Frenz and the Eggs.

As told to me by Rhoda, added some creative work to her story. 






The other day, inside the kitchen playing around, Frenfren opened the refrigerator door.  He saw the nice eggs his mommy had bought last night. 10 of them in all, sitting inside the refrigerator.  He was excited when he saw the eggs just sitting there.  He remembered how nice the chicks were when he helped care for the chicks right after they came out of the eggs.  All newly hatched, wet, and needing help.  He remembered how his nino and the caretaker carefully cared for each chick that was hatching from it's egg. 

So he decided right there with the cold air from the refrigerator escaping into the kitchen.  The chicks in the 10 eggs needs help in getting out.  With 10 eggs, he'll get 10 baby chicks.  So he carefully took the first egg and cracked it open.  The yolk spilling unto the kitchen floor.  There was no baby chick. 

Not disappointed, he thought there must be chicks in the other eggs.  They need help.  So he took the next egg, cracked it open, yolk spilling unto the floor next to the first egg.  There was no baby chick.  He knew there has to baby chicks in the eggs.  He saw it himself when the chicks hatched the other week.  His nino and the caretaker next door, helped the baby chicks from the eggs.  He knew in his heart that there are baby chicks waiting to hatch from the eggs in the refrigerator. 

So again, he took an egg, cracked it, the yolk again fell to the ground next to the other yolks.  Yet, there were no baby chicks.  Frenfren did this seven more times, until all the eggs were cracked, the egg yolks all on the kitchen floor, mixing together.  Again, after each opened egg, there was no baby chick. 

Not to be disappointed, since there was no baby chicks.  He looked at the egg yolks on the kitchen floor.  Frenfren thought again to himself, since there are no baby chicks in the eggs,  I will make dinner.  He spied the ripe tomatoes his mommy had bought with the eggs the night before.  Took a tomato, set it on the floor.  Then he went back to the refrigerator and took the kitchen knife that his mommy stores with the other utensils on the inside of the refrigerator door. 

With the tomato in one hand and kitchen knife in the other, he started slicing tomatoes just like his mommy does when she is preparing their dinner.  He was intent on making dinner for the family, just like how his mommy makes it. 

Just then, his mommy walks into the kitchen and sees the wonderful mess on the kitchen floor.  Her baby boy was cutting tomatoes into slices amid the egg yolks.  She calmly asked Frenfren what is going on.  Frenfren explained that he saw the 10 eggs in the refrigerator and that he wanted 10 chicks of his own.  But since there were no chicks, he decided to make dinner for the family. 

Her son displayed self-esteem, self-confidence, and initiative.  She could not bring herself to spanking the boy.  After cleaning up the mess on the kitchen floor, she took the time to explain to her young son, that chicks are not found in eggs inside the refrigerator.  Those eggs are outside under a hen or inside an incubator.  Also, that we prepare the dinner on the table or counter, not on the kitchen floor. 

Later that evening, during her chat with her husband who is away.  She relayed the days of events of their son.  He laughed at the story being told.  For it was years ago, at about the same age as his son, that he and his cousins did the exact same thing in their Lolo's house, in the family compound, looking for chicks in the eggs inside the refrigerator. 



Keep Smiling


Since this story came out.  All the sharps have been taken out of the refrigerator and secured in a higher place that Frenfren will not get to.