I hooked up with Ryder Truck Leasing working the Service Island on the 3rd shift. I do get to drive some of the trucks around the yard just to keep in "practice" shifting and other assorted "FUN" driver things....

Now it's time to start chasing storms, full time. My oldest son, Brandyn, has decided that's what he wants to do when he finished school. So, I'll be sure to send him out there when he gradumutates in 2 years and you can take him under your wing. :D

Best wishes, Doc! Please keep us informed with new stories!

He may want to stay where he is to practice chasing. Isn't it true that Iowa is a Native American word for "TORNADO MAGNET?????":lol:

That's for sure. I've certainly seen my fair share of them. :eek2: Maybe you should come out here, Pete. :thumbsup:

That's quite alright. There's enough "Twisty Cloud" activity here to keep me busy as the next story will disclose.

Stay tuned for Lightning and the MBM driver: A new tale from an ex-driver now fuel island person....

Doc! Good to see ya!
We will be 10-10 on the side, waiting to hear...

Lightning and the MBM Driver
 

About two weeks ago an extremely severe thunderstorm arrived*

Ryder policy states that during a lightning outbreak the diesel pumps do not run which is all fine and well with me since I don't want to be standing under a METAL shed during the light show.

Anyway a driver for MBM showed up as the storm started and demanded that I fuel his truck so he could get home after a "short" trip on the road. I did inform this "gentleman" that I was going to wait until the storm passed as the light show grew in intensity. Of course, this did not sit well this driver and he vented his displeasure claiming he was going to whip my ass and all the other crap that comes with a temper tantrum.

He began to piss me off until a HUGE bolt of lightning shot across the sky and hit a cell phone tower in the yard next to Ryders. The flash was a brilliant blue and the sparks flew like a July 4th fireworks display. All I could say was "DAMN!" and then I turned back to the irate driver and noticed him cutting a fast trail towards the shop.

It took about 45 minutes to get the driver back to his truck after the storm had passed.... Another fun night at the service island...


*Side Note: This chain of thunderstorms produced several deadly tornadoes. It made for a miserable Friday night!!!

That little lightening bolt showed how tough he was. :lol:
(I live in tornado alley, and I would probably do the same thing :p)

Well Doc, I'm glad you made it through the rough stuff.

I've always enjoyed your writings. Keep em coming!

after a few days of reading i am to the end so far good stuff every one and put me on that book list aswell doc