Welderman

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 15

Monday, November 23, 2020 - Noon
E. Tropicana & Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas

Jose directed Third to turn into an alleyway behind the University Plaza shopping center. “Short cut – Tropicana & Maryland can be a bear sometimes. Just pull around behind the Vons and we’re there.”

Third did as he was told and nearly ran over a large, burly black security guard with a pistol on his hip and a pistol-grip shotgun in his arms. A security car blocked the loading bay of the Vons. Jose waved and the guard waved back. “Third, stop here a second. I know this guy.”

Jose got out as the guard walked up to Third’s side of the car. “Franklin, how’s it going?”

The guard snorted and shook Jose’s hand. “Homeboy, you do NOT want to be asking me that question today. Who’re these folks?”

“This is my brother-in-law Third – oh shit, I mean...” Jose sputtered.

Third laughed. “It’s okay, Jose – Franklin, I’m Third Welderman, Jose’s brother-in-law, and this is my new wife, Maria.”

“Third son?” Franklin asked with a grin.

“Nope, the third John Welderman. Sounds a lot less snobby than being called ‘the Third’ all the time.”

“That it does, my friend, that it does. So where you been, Jose? Haven’t seen you around for the better part of a week.”

“I’ve been staying with Third and Maria for a few days. The way the news looked earlier, we decided to make that a few more days, so I came by to pick up my mail, check the apartment.”

“Oh hell. You haven’t heard then?” Franklin asked Jose.

“Heard what, man? Something going on?” Jose asked.

“There was a fire over there last night – some idiot fell asleep making french fries. Can you fuc- oh, sorry, Maria – can you believe that? Took out eight units. Five dead, including the french fry guy.”

“Which building?” Jose asked with a growing feeling of dread which was mirrored on the faces of Third and Maria.

“West of the pool is what a couple of firemen said,” Franklin replied. “They had a command post set up over by the Del Taco and I talked to a few of ‘em as they were coming and going.”

Franklin could tell by the way Jose’s face dropped and shoulders sagged which building he lived in. “Ah hell, man, that’s a lousy way to be told your home’s gone. I’m sorry, man.”

“Thanks, Franklin. At least I had some stuff with me. Say, what’s the deal with the heavy hardware?” Jose asked, pointing to the shotgun.

“Getting crazy around here, man. That stock market stuff on the news, people are freakin’ out. Been a line all morning at the ATMs, and they’ve had six checkers going nonstop.” Franklin shook his head and spit on the ground. “Couple of fist fights in the ATM lines, lots of shouting and short nerves. Boss was afraid they’d try to break in the back and start looting. I’ve been out here since 10 AM.”

“Well, guess I better walk over and see what isn’t left of my place,” Jose said with a big sigh.

“Hey, Franklin,” Third asked, “any problem with parking back here? We’d like to walk over with Jose.”

“No problem at all, man. Just pull up behind the Pizza Hut. I’ll be back here the rest of my shift, so I’ll keep an eye on that beauty.”

Third backed up and pulled up near the back door of the Pizza Hut, and he and Maria got out and rejoined Jose and Franklin.

“Thanks, Franklin,” Third said, shaking his hand. “Stay loose out here, ok? Watch your back.”

“Will do, Third. Congrats on the marriage. Jose, sorry about the apartment, man. You need help, give me a holler, ok?”

“Thanks, Franklin. We’ll see you in a little while.”

The trio walked down the sidewalk and saw police tape and a Metro PD squad car blocking the driveway.

“Sorry folks, restricted area, residents only,” the officer said when they got within about ten feet of him.

“I live here, officer – or used to, I guess,” Jose replied. “This is my sister and brother-in-law.”

“Do you have some ID to verify your address, sir?” the officer asked.

“I’ve got my driver’s license,” Jose replied. “Before I reach for it, you should know, we’re all CCW holders and carrying.”

“Where you carrying?” the officer asked, more alert but not upset.

“Revolver, right side,” Jose replied. “Wallet’s on the same side.”

“Okay, remove your wallet nice and slow, please. If you folks would keep your hands in plain sight, please, I’d appreciate it.”

The officer looked at Jose’s ID and CCW card carefully. “All right, Mr. Diaz, here’s your ID & CCW card. Sorry about the delay. Already had to arrest a couple people for trying to steal or take pictures. Ghouls. Oh, and thanks for disclosing about the CCWs. Much appreciated. You can go in now.”

The trio walked under the police tape. Third asked the officer, “How bad is it?”

The officer shook his head. “Five dead, dozen injured, eight units totaled, water and smoke damage to the rest of that building.”

“Didn’t plan for this disaster, did we?” Jose said quietly as they surveyed the damage.

“Where was your apartment in the building, Jose?” Third asked.

“Second floor, one down from the pool,” Jose pointed. “Right in the middle of that pile of debris.”

Maria heard the catch in his voice and placed a hand on his shoulder as they stood near a fire vehicle and watched the firefighters poking at the debris, looking for hot spots.

A firefighter in a white helmet was talking into a walkie talkie and saw the three standing there watching. “Did you folks live in the building?”

Jose raised his hand. “I did. Apt. 202. I’m Jose Diaz.”

The firefighter, a battalion chief by the logo on the front of his helmet, looked at his clipboard and made a note. “We had you listed as missing, Mr. Diaz. Glad to take you off the list and mark you as accounted for.”

“Where’d the fire start, Chief?” Jose asked.

“Looks like it was a cooking fire in 102, somebody fell asleep or passed out while making french fries. Spread like, well, wildfire. The people in 201 and 203 didn’t get out.”

“The Freemans were in 201, husband and wife. The Ramirez family lived in 203 – husband, wife, and Monica, the husband’s sister,” Jose said quietly. “Damn meth head lived in 102, probably was stoned out of his mind and tried to cook. Hope he burns in hell.”

“I won’t argue that with you, Mr. Diaz,” the battalion chief responded. “Say, did you know a Monica Ramirez?”

Jose nodded. “I guess she died in 203 with her brother and sister-in-law.”

The chief looked confused. “No she didn’t, Mr. Diaz,” the chief revealed. “She was working late at Smart & Final, saw the fire, and came over. Damn near had to put her in cuffs to keep her from running into the building.”

“Any idea where she is now, Chief?” Jose asked.

A loud scream – Third would later recall it was the loudest human scream he’d ever heard – pierced the air.

“JOSE! JOOOSSSEEEE!”

A Hispanic woman, about Maria’s height and weight but younger, came running from the direction of the manager’s office and threw herself into Jose’s arms, practically knocking him off his feet. Jose and Monica dropped to their knees, both crying and clutching at the other.

Third, Maria and the battalion chief stepped back a few feet. Third leaned over to Maria and whispered, “I didn’t know Jose had a girlfriend.”

Maria smiled and whispered back, “I’m not sure Jose knew it, either. But I suspect he’s figured it out by now. Did you see the look on his face when the chief said she was okay?”

Third nodded. “She’s about your size, isn’t she?”

Maria nodded, then smiled. “I know what you’re thinking and it’s a great idea, Third.”

The two smiled at each other and watched first Jose, then Monica stand up, arms wrapped around each other. They walked over to the others and Jose spoke: “Third, Maria, this is Monica Ramirez. She lived next door to me with her brother and sister-in-law. Monica, this is my sister Maria and her new husband, Third Welderman.”

Monica looked up, still sniffling and asked, “Did Jose say your name was Third?”

Third smiled. “That he did, Monica. My dad and granddad were both named John, so I got nicknamed Third, and it’s stuck.” He paused. “We’re sorry for your loss, Monica.”

Monica nodded. “Thank you. I don’t know what I’m going to do now.” The sobbing started again.

Maria immediately put an arm around Monica’s shoulders and started talking rapid-fire Spanish with her as she gently started walking her towards the police-taped entrance.

“Chief, Jose’s staying with us, so if you need him for anything, here’s my home number,” Third said, and gave him the number.

“Good luck, Mr. Diaz. And to that young lady too.” The chief smiled. “Take good care of her.”

“What did he mean by that, Third? ‘Take good care of her’?” Jose asked as he and Third headed for the Caddy.

“Jose, Maria and I saw the way you looked when you thought she was dead, and then when you saw her running at you,” Third said quietly. “She’s special, isn’t she?”

Jose looked embarrassed, then nodded. “Yeah, I guess she is, Third. She was married once, no kids, had a really bad divorce. Moved in with her brother a couple years ago. We’ve been friends ever since.”

“Friends?” Third said with an arched eyebrow. Both men laughed.

“Okay, maybe more than friends,” Jose replied. “Neither one of us has gone out with anyone else since we met. She’s pretty special.”

“Special enough to move into the house with us?” Third asked.

Jose stopped in his tracks. “I couldn’t ask that of you, Third.”

“You didn’t ask, Jose. Maria and I are offering.”

Jose looked like he was going to cry. “I – I’d appreciate that, man. I don’t know how I can ever repay you for everything you’ve done.”

“Family takes care of family,” Third said quietly, nodding to the police officer on duty as they ducked under the tape and headed towards Maria and Monica, who were talking to Franklin, the security guard, at the alley entrance.

“Maria,” Third said as he and Jose walked up, “did you talk to Monica about joining us?”

Maria nodded. “All arranged, though it took a bit of convincing. Can we make a stop at a Walmart on the way home? Monica doesn’t have anything but the clothes on her back. She said there’s one about three big blocks east of here.”

“Absolutely we can,” Third replied. “Let’s head over there right now and get on home, quick as we can. Monica, do you have a car?”

Still sniffling, Monica shook her head. “The building collapsed towards the parking lot and burned the cars parked closest. I usually walked to work.”

“No worries, Monica,” Third said as he unlocked the Caddy, opened the door and held the seat forward for Monica. Jose practically leapt in after her and was holding her hand as soon as they were buckled in.

"Franklin," Third said, "take care. Thanks for watching the car. Hang loose, ok?"

"Will do, Third. Watch your back."

Third walked around the back of the Caddy and opened Maria’s door for her, whispering “Quite a couple,” motioning with his head to the back seat.

Maria put her hand on Third’s and smiled. “Remind you of anyone?”

[9idrr]

Okay, sir, nice way to ease us into the approaching unrest. I was hoping that the new love interest was gonna be a known quantity, rather than some hitch-hikin' chick they rescued from MZBs along the Strip. Now I'm curious if they've got enough vehicles for what's ahead.

[ss1442]

Great story thanks. The only nit pick has to do with all the cash they all pulled out. I don't think it will be worth anything other than toilet paper. Smarter would have been to convert it into hard assets as much as possible anyhow. PM, ammo, guns, food, trucks, jeeps, steel, armor, booze, more land whatever they can get purchased.

Sure enjoying the story though.

Thank you again for all of your work.

Mike

[methos]

Agreed pb, hope that people have used the proliferation of this genre to learn things. So much is lost to people growing up now days.

Good work Bruce.

[papaof2]

Third is going to be surprised as events develop. I won't blow any "secrets," but he's not as prepped as he thinks he is.

I'm with you on the refueling, even though I just drive a regular car. Half a tank is my "empty" light.

There's a series of videos on youtube by LDSPrepper. He's in the utility service area but with stored water, some solar power, etc. He decided to turn off the incoming water, electricity and natural gas and effectively go off grid for a week. He found himself much less prepared than he thought he was. His expected 5 days of power from the battery bank lasted perhaps 30 hours - and similar problems in other areas. While he had collected rainwater to use for watering the garden, that storage wasn't connected to the irrigation system normally used when commercial power was available so he was powering a pump to move water that could have been moved by gravity. I think there are 5 or 6 videos in the series. It starts here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecT5RXcKL64 Probably a couple of hours in total length.

On our personal vehicles, half tank is refill. Being consistent about that and about having three 5 gallon cans of treated gas for the lawn equipment means one vehicle can always have a full tank from what's on hand. The gas cans are also a way to test how well the fuel treatment works. A month or so ago, I was cutting grass with gasoline purchased and treated more than a year previously.

Good story - just far enough in the future for events to have worked out that way.

[freebirde]

Jul 29, 2016 18:16:50 GMT -6 brucearmstrong65 said:

I'm going to do a "low-income" prepper story next, I think. Jerry D. Young did an excellent take on the low-income prepper a while back with his story "One Man Alone: A Vignette." One of his best stories, I think. His website is down but you can read "One Man Alone" here: www.americanpreppersnetwork.net/viewtopic.php?f=145&t=1569 .

Third is going to be surprised as events develop. I won't blow any "secrets," but he's not as prepped as he thinks he is.

I'm with you on the refueling, even though I just drive a regular car. Half a tank is my "empty" light.

Jerry has several low-income stories, one of my favorite is "Suburban Homesteader". pawfiction.proboards.com/attachment/download/194

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 16

In comparison to the Vons that Franklin was guarding, the Walmart Supercenter a mile and a half to the east of the Tropicana Village apartments appeared normal, if a bit busier than usual for a midday. As Third swing into the parking lot from E. Tropicana Avenue, he could see a security vehicle parked near one entrance, but other than that, there was no sign of any trouble. Third parked at the west end of the Supercenter, as much to avoid getting his Caddy dinged up as to give him easy access to the street if trouble started.

“Jose, take this,” Third said quietly as he held the seat forward for Jose to get out and put something in Jose’s hand.

Jose looked down at a wad of $100 bills and immediately tried to give it back. “Third, we can’t take your money.”

“Jose, I suspect in a few days this will only be useful as toilet paper,” Third replied. “I should have converted more of it into usable goods rather than just piling it up at home.” Third shook his head. “I wonder what else I’ve forgotten to take care of.”

Each person took a shopping cart and together they headed for the clothing department. Third & Maria each got several pairs of jeans and long-sleeve outdoors shirts, as well as extra underwear and socks. Jose did much the same, as everything of his had been destroyed except for what he took to Third & Maria’s home.

Monica got one pair of jeans, a three-pack of panties, a blouse and a bra, and put them in one corner of her cart, looking almost embarrassed to be doing so.

“Monica, aren’t you going to need more than that?” Jose asked her, taking the words out of Third’s mouth.

“I didn’t want to impose,” Monica said quietly and began to tear up. Maria put an arm around her and after a moment said, “Third, why don’t you and Jose wander over to the hardware section for a bit. We’ll catch up with you after we’re done here.”

Jose started to speak but Third held up his hand. “Good idea, hon,” Third replied, with one hand on his cart and the other on Jose’s arm. “We’ll see you over there in a few minutes.”

“Relax, Jose,” Third said as they pushed their carts towards hardware & automotive. “Maria will make sure she gets everything she needs.”

“But I don’t -,” Jose sputtered, and Third held up his hand again.

“I suspect Monica was embarrassed at depending on charity, and maybe buying certain things in front of you,” Third said. “Don’t worry, Maria will take care of her. I just remembered a few things I didn’t get before.”

When the two couples met up again 10 minutes later, Third had a couple cases of motor oil, filters, and assorted belts and hoses in addition to his clothing choices. Jose’s cart held his clothing selections, a good tool set for household and automotive work, and several pairs of work gloves. Both of the men’s carts had four empty five-gallon jerry cans. Maria and Monica’s carts was loaded near to to overflowing with shirts, jeans, sneakers, hiking boots, and various and sundry clothing and women’s items.

Maria took Third’s arm and said, “Looks like we’re in pretty good shape as far as clothes and footwear go.”

“Sure seems like it,” Third agreed, “so if nobody needs anything else, let’s checkout and head for home.”

A few minutes and several hundred dollars later, the bags were unloaded in to the Cadillac’s trunk and everyone was back inside the car.

A thought occurred to Maria and she turned towards the back set. “Monica, when’s the last time you ate?”

“I – I don’t know,” Monica replied, looking tired and confused. “I guess it was dinner last night, with my brother.” The thought of her losses started her sobbing again, and Jose put an arm around her.

“Third, there’s a KFC across the parking lot, the other side of the McD’s,” Maria pointed towards Tropicana. “Let’s pick something up to take home.”

“Excellent idea, my love,” Third replied as he maneuvered the Caddy through the steadily thickening foot and vehicle traffic in the parking lot. “Things are getting busier here. I’d like to get home promptly if we can.”

Ten minutes later, the foursome had two buckets of chicken and a selection of side dishes in the car and were headed southbound on the I-15 to Nevada 160 and home to Mountain Springs.

A couple hours later

One bucket of KFC had been demolished and a small dent put in the other, with the leftovers put away for later. The two couples were sitting in the living room. Jose and Monica were sitting together, appropriately enough, on the love seat. Maria suspected that they had had feelings for one another long before the loss of their homes and Monica’s brother.

“Say, Maria,” Third asked, “you feel like making a quick run into town?”

“Is there anything left in Vegas you haven’t bought?” she replied in mock astonishment.

“Actually, there is,” Third replied, “gasoline. The propane is full up, so we’re okay there. But gasoline – well, we’ve only got what are in the cars. Much as I love the Caddy, it’s a fuel hog. I’d like to go to the Chevron down on Durango and 160. If there’s a line or any problem, we can try the Circle K or Terrible’s at the same intersection.”

“How much do you want to get?” Maria asked.

“I’ve got a total of 12 empty jerry cans – four from the garage, and the eight we got at Walmart earlier. That’s 60 gallons. I figured we’d use your Hilux pickup – it gets the best mileage, much as I love the Caddy.”

“Let’s go and get it done before dark,” Maria commented, standing up. “I’d like to get back here and have a quiet night.”

“Jose,” Third said, “can you and Monica manage here by yourselves for a while? Jose?”

“Wh- oh, I’m sorry Third,” Jose stumbled, looking embarrassed. “What did you say?”

Trying not to smile too much, Third repeated, “I asked if you and Monica can manage by yourselves for a while? Maria and I are going to take her Hilux and fill up the jerry cans.”

Looking at Monica with a smile, Jose replied, “We’ll be fine, Third. Thanks.”

“Right,” Third said with a roll of his eyes at Maria. “We’ll be back within the hour.”

Third and Maria pulled on their jackets and gloves and headed out to the pickup. “Y’know, I think the house could have fallen down around them, and neither Jose nor Monica would’ve noticed,” Third grumbled.

“Jealous, are you?” Maria laughed as they got into the Hilux.

“I can drive this thing with one hand, you know,” Third said as he started the engine and headed toward the street. “Hands-free, if we’re on a straight road.”

“Eyes forward, mister, and both hands on the wheel,” Maria admonished him with mock severity. “We’ll put your hands to good use later.”

All three gas stations were busy but Third was able to get to a pump at the Chevron with only a short wait. Maria filled up the truck while Third got the twelve jerry cans lined up in front of the pump. He glanced around while filling up the jerry cans and noticed three or four other people doing the same, with the same knowing look on their faces.

“Looks like we’re not the only ones getting ready for the Spam to hit the fan,” Third said to Maria, motioning with his head at the others. “People were watching the news or else word is spreading around.”

Third hoisted the last of the full cans into the back of the Hilux, made sure they were properly secured and wouldn’t move around, and paid the tab inside in cash. Inside of 20 minutes, they were heading back home.

Third switched on the radio to get the latest news, as it was the top of the hour. The news was much the same as before – lines reported at banks, ATMs, supermarkets and superstores. No looting was reported, at least not on a widespread basis. Futures on the Asian markets were reported sharply downward, indicating a continuing massive selloff when those exchanges opened in a few hours.

“Sounds like more of the same,” Maria commented. “Wonder what things will be like tomorrow?”

“Can’t see how they’ll be any better,” Third replied. “Guess it’s just a matter of how bad.”

[9idrr]

I've got 3 older vehicles that are EFI and 2 with carbs but I doubt that it'd be easy convert any of 'em to run on propane so I just try to keep a few full gas cans around for the truck/cars/bikes and the one genset that needs liquid fuel. There's another genny that'll burn gas or propane, plus an on-demand propane water heater. Always have at least 2 out of 3 100 pounders full, plus several smaller tanks. It may not last forever, but it'll get me through any small bumps in the economic machinery. I might have to just run one of the gensets a couple of hours a day to stay in water and keep the reefer and freezer cold but I bet that means I'm better off than the majority of the folks in my little burg. I even have one of those little 1K 2-stroke things that I could loan out to anybody who'd be willin' to supply their own gas, in exchange for an equal amount of fuel. Oh, yeah, there's an electric stove in the house but we also have a total of 4 propane burners available so that'll cover cooking for at least a little while. I ain't even close to bein' as ready as Third is. I'm guessin', ba65, that you're in full hunker-down-in-the-bunker mode already. :^)

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 17

Tuesday, November 24th, 2020

Third was up early to get the latest on CNBC. He padded out to the kitchen and turned on the already set-up coffee maker without turning a light on. Half-asleep, he stepped down into the living room and sat down on the sofa…

and right on top of Jose, who went from sound asleep to screaming at the top of his lungs in about one-half of one second. His screaming was joined by Third’s yelling. Between the two of them, they made enough noise to wake up both Maria and Monica, who came running down the stairs to see what the commotion was about.

Twas quite a sight that the two women found: Jose in a t-shirt and sweat pants peering from behind an overturned sofa, Third sprawled across the coffee table in his bathrobe and slippers.

“Why did you sit on top of me?!?” Jose yelled.

“Why were you sleeping on the sofa?” Third yelled back.

Maria started giggling, Monica followed suit, and after the two men realized how silly they looked, they both started laughing until they cried. Eventually Third got on his feet and gave Jose a hand up, and the two men got the couch righted.

“Monica, you just can’t leave two grown men alone,” Maria said, shaking her head, as the women walked into the kitchen, heading for the perking coffeemaker.

“I’ve never met a grown man before,” Monica replied, rolling her eyes at the sight of the men, “what’re they like?”

“Beats me,” Maria replied, “I don’t know any either.”

Jose and Third straightened things up in the living room. “Honest to God, Jose, I didn’t see you there until you started yelling. What were you doing down here, man?”

Jose folded up the afghan and set it over the back of the couch. “You mean, why wasn’t I with Monica? Because we’re not married. Especially after yesterday, it would’ve been taking advantage of her.”

Third nodded. “Good call, man. Well, let’s go get some coffee and listen to the ladies cackle at us for a while. Bad news can wait for a while.”

An hour later

With the cackling over and everyone’s heart rate back at a normal pace after the unusual morning wake-up call, Third and Jose sat down in easy chairs and turned on CNBC while the women went upstairs to get ready for the day.

As Third expected, the news was not good. The Asian markets had all taken a pounding; most had closed early. News from the European markets was no better. The dollar was plunging in value against every currency; oil was up, but not as much as gold, silver, and platinum. When the NYSE opened at 6:30 AM, sell orders flooded the market, so many that the Level 1 circuit breaker was tripped at 6:40 AM; trading was suspended until 6:55 AM, with the DJIA at 15,949 (down 1386 points). CNBC was running a digital stopwatch in the lower right hand corner of their signal, and it took precisely 4 minutes and 49 seconds for the DJIA to plunge through 14,735 and trigger the Level 2 circuit breaker and another 15-minute closure.

Five minutes into the Level 2 closure, CNBC carried a report that the NYSE Chairman was in an emergency conference call with President Clinton, Treasury Secretary Elizabeth Warren, and Janet Yellen, in her second term as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. Hard news was scarce, but the talking heads were speculating on the possibility of an equity holiday being declared – the stock market equivalent of a bank holiday.

The market reopened at 7:15 AM and the plunge or crash (depending on which term you preferred) turned into an utter rout. The Level 3 breaker was tripped at 7:21 AM, when the DJIA dropped through 13,868 (a 20% loss from the day’s opening) and trading was suspended for the rest of the day.

As with the previous day, orders were so backed up in the system that it took an hour to process transactions that were officially time-stamped as prior to the official closing time of 7:21 AM. The final tally: the DJIA closed down 28% at 12,500. The S&P 500 was down 30%, closing at 1207. Kitco had the spot price of gold at nearly $3,000 an ounce bid.

CNBC was reporting major liquidity problems at trading houses and banks across the country. Long lines were reported at banks, credit unions, grocery stores, and warehouse stores across the country. The City of New York had anticipated a recurrence of yesterday’s wave of suicidal jumpers and had stationed a fireman, paramedic or police officer at every window in the NYSE building. That did not, of course, stop brokers who, financially ruined with no hope of recovery, slit their wrists, took pills or, in three cases, took the emergency worker with them as they jumped to their deaths. Reports of suicides related to the economic collapse began pouring in from across the country, either brokers or investors who had seen their nest egg, college fund, or retirement accounts disintegrate.

A report from the White House indicated that President Clinton would make a statement from the White House Press Briefing Room at 8:00 AM. Secretary Warren and Fed Chair Yellen would be at her side.

Reports continued to come in of long lines and unruly crowds at financial institutions and stores across the country. People were beginning to break windows and doors at banks and stores in the West that had not yet opened for business.

At precisely 8:00 AM, a tired-looking President Clinton entered the Press Briefing Room, accompanied by Treasury Secretary Warren and Fed Chair Yellen. The President stood at the podium, ignoring questions, until getting the high sign that all network feeds were live. She began to speak.

“My fellow Americans:

“Turmoil in the international equity and bond markets has continued unabated since I spoke to you yesterday. The Chinese government continues to flood the market with its holdings of United States securities in a deliberate act of economic warfare against the United States and the Western world.

“After extensive consultations with Secretary Warren, Fed Chair Yellen, and major leaders in the banking and financial affairs sectors, I have decided to take the following actions, effective immediately.

“First, I am declaring an unlimited state of national emergency to exist throughout the United States of America, and all territories under its control, to last until further notice.

“Second, I am declaring a financial holiday until the normal opening time of the stock market on Monday, November 30th, at 9:30 AM Eastern time. All trading of stocks, bonds, securities, commodities and other financial instruments will cease until that time. All banks, credit unions, and related institutions will remain closed until that time. Those institutions now open will close immediately. This includes all credit cards, money market accounts, checking accounts, and ATM/debit transactions. These closures, I believe, are necessary in order to resolve liquidity issues and to give your government the opportunity to coordinate a joint response with those nations willing to work with us, rather than against us.

“Third, I have directed the Secretary of the Treasury to freeze all Chinese financial assets in the United States or under the operational control of U.S. firms. China will not be allowed to use our financial system to wage economic warfare against us.

“Fourth, I have directed the Secretary of the Treasury to default on all securities currently held by the People’s Republic of China as of today. Those entities who buy U.S. securities held by the PRC as of today will be buying worthless paper.

“Fifth, I am freezing all prices and wages at the level they were at 12:01 AM Eastern time this morning. Just as I will not allow China to wage economic war against us, so I will also not allow greedmongers and profiteers to attempt to benefit from this grave crisis.

“I will be meeting throughout the day with Secretary Warren and Chair Yellen, as well as other key government and civilian advisers, in order to craft a working strategy to calm the markets and allow normal financial activity to resume on Monday, November 30th. No questions.”

The three women quickly left the Briefing Room to frantically yelled questions from reporters, which went unanswered.

Third muted the TV and looked at Jose, then at Maria and Monica, who had just come down the stairs and into the living room.

“The big clampdown,” Third said, simply. “All stock exchanges and banks closed until Monday. Credit cards, debit cards, the works.”

“What happens now, Third?” Maria asked, as Monica walked over and sat on the arm of Jose’s chair.

“I’m guessing there’ll be rioting across the country within the hour,” Third said. “People will NOT like being unable to dump their stocks or pull their money out of the banks.”

“Something’s going on,” Monica said, pointing to the screen, where a four-star Marine general was walking to the Press Briefing Room podium. Third pressed the mute button again, in time to hear the CNBC anchor say, “Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine General Joseph Dunford has just stepped to the podium. Let’s go to the White House.”

General Dunford was brief and to the point.

“At the direction of the President, under the unlimited state of national emergency declared earlier today, I have issued the following orders:

“First: All leaves and passes for active-duty personnel are cancelled immediately. Report to your units immediately by fastest available means.

“Second: All Reserve personnel are hereby placed on immediate, indefinite active duty. Report immediately to your Reserve unit. If you are unable to report to your Reserve unit within the next 24 hours, report as soon as possible to the nearest Reserve center, regardless of branch.

“Third: Members of the Individual Ready Reserve should prepare to receive activation orders within the next 72 hours.

“That is all.”

Reporters shouted out questions about World War III and war with China as General Dunford left the briefing room. Network talking heads immediately began analyzing the comments of President Clinton and General Dunford. A retired Army brigadier general on CNN said simply that the United States was at war with China – an economic war, at the moment, and possibly a shooting war.

Third muted the TV again and tossed the remote down. Maria went to him and they held each other. Monica wrapped an arm around Jose’s neck and he took her hand. Minutes went by and nobody spoke.

Finally, Third, keeping an arm around Maria’s shoulders, turned to look at Jose and Monica clinging together.

“Come on, Jose, let’s get dressed and get ready. We’ve got a lot to do and no idea how much time to do it in.”

“What’s the plan, Third?” Jose asked, standing from the chair but hanging onto Monica’s hand.

“First, you and I go through the shelter, room by room, system by system, and make sure everything’s ready. Second -”

“Wait a second, Third – did you say shelter?” Jose interrupted.

Third smiled. “Didn’t we tell you about that yet? Well, we have one. Pretty well equipped too, if I do say so. Anyway, we’ll want to get our food storage re-organized somewhat, as we’re using all but two of the bunks as storage shelves at the moment.”

“How many bunks are there?”

“Well, the shelter has a capacity of 12 people, but only six bunks,” Third explained. “Any more than six and people are going to have to hot-bunk. More than 12 and we put too much of a strain on the air filtration system.

“Now, once that’s done, we’ll move all of our supplies down to the basement, and fit what we can in the shelter. That’s where the dumbwaiter in the garage comes in. Be a lot easier using that than carrying tons of stuff down, box by box,” Third pointed out.

“Sounds like a lot of work, Third,” Jose said. “Let me get washed up and grab some coffee, and we’ll get started."

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 18

Tuesday, November 24th, 2020 – 10 AM

The first thing Third and Jose began working on was to move all the supplies kept in the second spare bedroom down to the garage, where they could be quickly moved to the basement using the dumbwaiter. Food, water, and weapons were moved into the shelter proper; most dry goods, extra clothing & bedding, and the like were stacked on shelves in the masonry shelter in the basement, and the basement proper.

Once that was accomplished, Third and Jose filled the two 320-gallon Water Reserve units that had come with the last two Variety 2000 year supply sets that Third had ordered from Emergency Essentials. The Wolf Den shelter from Utah Shelter Systems came with 320 gallons of water storage, so the free units from Emergency Essentials tripled their water capacity. That didn’t take into account the several cases of bottled water from Costco they normally kept on hand for day-to-day use.

Third moved the twelve full 5-gallon gas cans from the back of Maria’s Hilux to a small outbuilding on the back side of the property that held gardening equipment and the like. He treated each can with a small amount of Pri-G, which he also stored in the outbuilding.

The women had gone through the clothing upstairs and brought down a selection to keep on hand in the shelter, in the event that something happened and they were either unable or unwilling to get things from the bedrooms. The six bunks in the Wolf Den Shelter were made up with sheets and blankets, as were the two bunks in the in-basement shelter.

The cash, gold and silver coins and other valuables were moved down into the gun room. What in the hell was I thinking, saving this and not spending it? Third shook his head as he loaded the stacks of bills into a compartment of the gun safe. From the sound of the news, this’ll be good for toilet paper or fire starter, and that’s about all.

The garage was basically empty except for Third’s Cadillac and Maria’s Hilux. Jose’s Grand Cherokee was parked in the driveway. He’d been thinking about his Cadillac the last day or two, particularly since getting the 60 gallons of gasoline yesterday afternoon. Of the three vehicles they had, Third’s Caddy was by far the biggest gas hog, averaging only about 10 MPG. Maria’s Hilux got the best mileage, with Jose’s Grand Cherokee a close second. Third sighed. Guess the Caddy gets outdoor parking for the duration. Sorry, old girl. He raised the garage door, started the Cadillac and moved it to a clear spot just off the driveway. Going back into the garage, he got a custom-made cover and fastened it to the Cadillac.

Third went back in the house and found Jose having a glass of water while the women were sitting at the kitchen table, making notes on what to have for Thanksgiving dinner.

“Jose, why don’t you pull your Grand Cherokee in the garage?” Third said, getting a glass of water for himself.

“There’s no room, Third, with the Cadillac and Maria’s truck there.”

Third sighed again. “I know, which is why I pulled the Caddy to the side of the driveway and put her cover on. Your and Maria’s cars get better mileage. If things continue downhill, we’ll have to conserve what gas we’ve got, which is 60 gallons in the shed plus whatever’s in the three vehicles. Which reminds me, in a couple days, we should drain the Cadillac and transfer it into the truck.”

Maria looked up from her notes. “You think things are going to be that bad, hon?”

Third nodded. “If the financial system remains jammed up, with no liquidity, people will stop getting paid. Nobody will sell us oil for dollars, nobody will be working at the refineries to process it, and nobody will be driving tanker trucks to get it to us.” Third paused, wondering how far to go. “What we have now is all we can depend on – I suspect for a very long time.”

“Well,” Maria said emphatically, “we’ve got quite a lot to be thankful for, which means we better do this Thanksgiving up right. The turkey’s been defrosting in the fridge since yesterday, Monica and I are going to work on the pies and side dishes tomorrow, and the turkey goes in the oven Thursday morning. Andy and Gloria are still coming, right?”

Third nodded. “Last I heard from Andy, they were; I was going to walk down later and see how they’re doing.”

“Tell Gloria not to worry about bringing anything but themselves,” Maria emphasized. “We’ve got this under control.”

“Will do, boss! Jose, let’s take a walk.”

The two men bundled up and were walking out the front door, just in time to see Andy’s Mercedes sedan pull in, looking much the worse for wear. The front windshield had been smashed in two places, the front end had significant body damage, and the right rear tire was flat and the rim was damaged.

Third pushed Jose back inside and closed the front door.

“Jose, where’s your pistol?”

“In my bag, over by the couch.”

“Okay, get it,” Third pointed. “I’m going to get mine.”

Third opened the hall closet and unlocked a small metal box, removing his pistol and a fanny pack with extra ammo.

Maria came into the entryway to see Third checking the loads on his revolver and putting it in his coat pocket. “Madre Dios! What’s wrong?”

“Andy just pulled into his driveway, the Mercedes was beat all to hell – looked like it had been in a wreck too.” Jose came into the entryway, checking his pistol and putting a handful of ammo in his jacket pocket. “Jose and I are going down to check on Andy and Gloria, see what happened. You and Monica stay here, doors locked. Keep your rifle handy.”

Maria started to argue, but stopped at the hard look on Third’s face. She ran upstairs and came back down with the Circuit Judge rifle and a similar fanny pack on her hip.

Monica heard the commotion and came from the kitchen to see Maria holding a rifle, Jose a pistol and Third shifting the pistol his his jacket pocket for better access. She didn’t say anything but her eyes grew wide. Jose stepped close and spoke a few words to her, after which she kissed him on the cheek.

“Okay, Jose, let’s go. Maria, just in case, call 911, explain the situation, and make sure you tell them Jose and I are heading down there armed, ok?” Third stepped over and kissed her. “We’ll be fine.”

Third and Jose went out the door. Maria stood watching as Jose went down their side of the street, while Third went across the street and down the other side.

Third knelt by the brick pillar mailbox at the edge of the driveway, taking his pistol out of his jacket pocket and double-checking the cylinder. Jose had his pistol out and was kneeling next to a similar mailbox across the street.

The vehicle didn’t appear to be occupied, both front doors sitting open. The rear window looked to Third as if it had been hit by at least one gunshot.

Third waved Jose across the street to his position and then eased closer to where he could see inside the car. Both front seats had blood and broken glass on them, as did the steering wheel. Third started to wave Jose closer when he heard the front door open and close, followed by footsteps. He knelt down behind the Mercedes’ engine compartment and trained his pistol towards the flagstone path leading to the front door.

[ss1442]

CLIFF HANGER! Thanks.

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 19

A figure of average height, in a torn and bloody overcoat, limped around the corner, using an umbrella as a cane. The man’s face and head were bloody, and he was holding a towel to his face with his free hand. Third wouldn’t have recognized Andy Simone if it wasn’t for the camel-hair overcoat, which was Andy’s pride and joy.

Third stood, keeping the pistol trained in Andy’s direction as he motioned at Jose to stay put for the moment. Third’s motion caught Andy’s eye and he stopped, towel clutched to his face. “Oh good, Third, it’s you,” Andy croaked as the umbrella slipped from his hand and Andy collapsed to the ground, falling on his right side.

“Jose! Get Maria and her med kit down here, pronto!” Third yelled as he raced to where Andy lay unconscious on the edge of the walkway. The towel had fallen away from his face, revealing a gash on the left side of his forehead which was bleeding freely. There were numerous other cuts, scrapes and bruises on his face and hands. His overcoat fell open, showing a torn and bloody shirt. Third felt for any obvious wounds and thought there was movement when he touched Andy’s sides, suggesting multiple broken ribs.

Maria and Monica came running down the street, Maria carrying her rifle and Monica lugging the neon orange medical kit Maria had put together. Maria came around the front of the Mercedes and skidded to a stop at the sight of Third’s best friend, unconscious and bloody. “Don’t move him, Third! Monica, come hold the towel to Andy’s head. It’s okay, you can do it.”

Slowly Monica came over from Jose’s side, knelt down by Andy’s head, and carefully held the already bloody towel against his wound.

Maria checked Andy over the same way Third had. “I did that already – I think he’s got broken ribs on both sides,” Third said as he stepped back, out of Maria’s way. A siren sounded in the distance and seemed to be coming closer.

“Third, where’s Gloria?” Maria asked.

“I haven’t seen her,” Third replied, looking around. “I think Andy must’ve gotten her inside before he came back out here for some reason.”

“Go look for her – and call an ambulance while you’re inside!” Maria yelled. “I called 911 for a police officer but I don’t know if they sent an ambulance!”

Third raised his pistol and moved towards the front door, Jose a couple of steps behind him. Third held up his hand, motioning to Jose to stay at the doorway, and went inside.

Gloria was in the living room, her bloody figure a jarring contrast against the white leather sofa and matching area rug. Andy had somehow gotten her into the house and put her on the sofa. Like Andy’s, her face was bloody and bruised. Unlike Andy, she had a gunshot wound in the left shoulder. A trail of blood led from the front door to her resting place on the sofa.

Third checked for a pulse on her neck, then felt her wrist and leaned down to put his ear to her mouth. After a few seconds, he stood up, took a crocheted throw that was draped over the back of the couch, and covered Gloria with it, including her face.

The siren stopped outside. “Put your pistol in your pocket and keep your hands in plain sight, Jose,” Third advised, and did the same. Both men went out the front door, not holding their hands up, but keeping them away from their pockets. A Metro PD unit was facing the house, lights flashing, two officers with hands on their guns surveying the scene.

“Officers, we’re neighbors came to check on our friends,” Third said. “I’m John Welderman the Third, and this is Jose Diaz. We’re both CCW holders and we’re both carrying. We need an ambulance forthwith.”

Both officers drew their pistols. The driver, a sergeant, said, “Okay, Mr. Welderman, you come towards me first, hands away from your body, nice and slow. Mr. Diaz, stay right where you are, please. What pocket is your pistol in, Mr. Welderman?”

“Right jacket pocket. My wallet is in my right rear pocket,” Third replied.

“Okay, stop right there and let me get that pistol out of your pocket first,” the first officer, whose name tag read Wilson and whose sleeves bore three stripes, said. He came forward and did just that, handing the pistol to his partner and then frisking Third. When that was done, Sergeant Wilson repeated the process with Jose.

“Okay, let’s see your driver’s licenses and CCW cards, please,” Sergeant Wilson said to both men, who slowly withdrew their wallets and presented the cards. He checked the cards against the licenses, and then ran a check on both of them. A minute later, he returned from the car and handed the men their documents back. “Everything checks,” Sergeant Wilson told them, “and thanks for giving me the heads up about the CCWs. Too much crap going on today to shoot somebody by accident.”

“Bad in town?” Third asked, as he put his wallet away, and both officers holstered their weapons.

“I’ve been on Metro PD 21 years, and I’ve never seen anything this bad,” Sergeant Wilson replied. “So what happened here, Mr. Welderman?”

“Andy Simone and his wife Gloria just moved here,” Third explained. “We saw Andy’s Mercedes pull in, oh, fifteen minutes ago, looking like that.” Third pointed to the basically wrecked vehicle. “Jose and I came over to see what happened. Andy came out the front door after carrying his wife inside. She’s on the living room sofa.” Third paused and lowered his voice. “She didn’t make it.”

Sergeant Wilson told his partner to report a 10-79 (dead body) and get an ETA on detectives and the ambulance. The other officer, a female named Jackson, spoke on the radio for a few minutes, and came back. “Ambulance is 5 minutes out. No detectives.”

“You mean no ETA on detectives, Jackson?” Sergeant Wilson asked.

Officer Jackson shook her head. “Sarge, the dispatcher’s exact words were ‘There are no detectives available. Period.’”

Sergeant Wilson shook his head. “It’s a miracle we’ve got an ambulance, for that matter. Okay, Jackson, stay with the ladies out here and see what you can do for the victim. I’m going inside with these two.” Sergeant Wilson motioned to the front door and the three men went inside, the sergeant directing them to try and avoid stepping in the bloody trail. He checked Gloria’s body for a pulse and found none.

“Okay, I’ll need a statement from both of you, and I’ll have to hang on to your pistols for the moment. Let’s sit at -”

“Hey Sarge,” Officer Jackson yelled from the doorway, “this guy just came to. He’s asking for third, or a third, something like that.” Third broke into a dead run, nearly knocking Officer Jackson off her feet as he headed for Andy’s side.

Third dropped to his knees and took Andy’s left hand. Maria and Monica were both kneeling by Andy’s head, trying to clean up some of his wounds. Another siren was audible but was some distance away.

“Andy, it’s me. Third. I’m right here, man,” Third nearly shouted, not sure if Andy understood him.

Third felt a squeeze on his hand. “Knew you’d … help, son,” Andy gasped out and coughed. “Gl – Gloria?”

“She’s inside, Andy, an officer’s with her and the ambulance is on the way.” Third looked up at Maria at the mention of Gloria’s name and shook his head, once.

“What happened, Andy?” Third asked.

“Gloria … doctor’s appointment … stopped to … get insulin at … Walgreens,” Andy forced the words out, every one a supreme effort. “Mob … stormed the place … I was inside … Gloria in car...” He paused, gasping for air. “Got to car … fighting … shot car as … leaving … Wanted … home.”

“Ambulance is almost here, Andy,” Third said, as another siren grew louder.

“Don’t … bother,” Andy forced the words out. “Gloria … gone when I … got here … I’m right … behind her.” Another squeeze on Third’s hand. “All yours … everything … God … speed … Third.” A squeeze on the hand, a long gasp, then nothing.

Third, his eyes filling with tears, looked at Andy’s face for a long minute, then lifted up Andy’s hand, kissed it, then placed at down at Andy’s side. Monica had gotten up and run into Jose’s arms. Maria, weeping, placed her hand on Third’s shoulder. Third clutched blindly to it. Officer Jackson walked over to the car and spoke to Sergeant Wilson, who spoke briefly on the radio. The ambulance turned onto the street, and Sergeant Wilson signaled them to cut the siren, after which he walked over to Third.

“Mr. Welderman, I’m sorry to interrupt your grief, but I need a moment with you, please,” Sergeant Wilson said, as quietly and gently as he could.

Third stood up, staggering briefly as he did so. He took off his jacket and laid it across Andy’s face and shoulders. Wiping his eyes with a handkerchief, Third nodded and he and Wilson walked over to the cruiser. “Jackson,” Sergeant Wilson said to the officer, “stand by as the ambulance people take … the Simones, please.” He was thankful he stopped from saying “the bodies.”

“I’m sorry for your loss, Mr. Welderman,” Sergeant Wilson began, “but we’ve got a, well, an extreme situation in town. There are no detectives available, from any division. No CSI techs, either. All we can do is have the ambulance take your friends to the coroner’s office.”

“That bad in town?” Third asked, looking up at Wilson, who nodded.

“Fights at every bank, looting at every store that’s open, breaking & entering at every store that’s not. The casinos are trying to lock down, tourists are trying to get to the airport and get home. That Walgreens your friend was at has burned to the ground.” Wilson paused. “We’ve already lost three officers. We’re on full tactical alert and every single hand is needed in town.”

Wilson reached into the patrol unit and handed Third the two pistols. “There won’t be any investigation, I’m afraid. You can have these back. Would you be willing to secure the house? Your friend’s dying declaration is good enough for me. I’ll include it in my report, if I ever get a chance to write one. I don’t think probate courts will be a worry anymore.”

Third nodded and, checking the pistols were on safe, put one in each front pants pocket. “So that’s it?”

Sergeant Wilson nodded and put a hand on Third’s shoulder. “I’m sorry, sir. We’ve got to be going back into town. Good luck to you and your family. I don’t know when anyone will be out this way for a while, sir.”

Third took a deep breath and extended his hand. “Thank you, Sergeant. Thank your partner for us too. Watch your back out there.”

Sergeant Wilson nodded, and got into the patrol unit, leaning his head forward and resting his forehead on the steering wheel for a moment. The ambulance crew had both bodies loaded into the ambulance and began to drive away as Officer Jackson got into the patrol vehicle. Sergeant Wilson and Third nodded at each other as the patrol unit left the scene.

Third walked over and stood where Andy’s body had been only minutes before. Maria walked over and took Third’s arm, holding it and resting her head on his shoulder. Monica and Jose were standing at the street edge of the driveway, heads together.

“Dear God, Third, what’s going to happen?” Maria whispered.

Finally Third spoke. “I’m going to secure Andy’s front door, Maria. His keys are still in the lock. After that, let’s go home and get cleaned up.”

Third locked Andy’s front door, pocketing his keys after a moment’s hesitation. Maria picked up her medical kit and, hand in hand with Third, walked up the driveway to Jose and Monica. Wordlessly, Third handed Jose his pistol. With a look back at Andy’s bloodstains on the front lawn, Third shook his head and said quietly, “Time to go home.”

[willc453]

Note: state of emergency not declared by President, so there are limitations on calling up the Individual Ready Reserve.

military.wikia.com/wiki/Individual_Ready_Reserve

Another good chapter. Thanks.

[9idrr]

Thanks for two more chapters. Didn't have a chance to look here when I got home from work so I just found 'em. Nice surprise.

[frankie]

Wow, what a great story. I can't wait to read more.

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 20

Tuesday, November 24th, 2020 – Afternoon

After the morning’s events, nobody felt like lunch that day in the Welderman home. Third was in the living room, flipping between CNN and KSNV News-3 out of Las Vegas. The news was basically the same on both – widespread looting, theft, arson and rioting in cities across the country. CNN reported that martial law had been declared in the District of Columbia, and there were shots of Hummers at major intersections and troops in full “battle rattle” on patrol outside the White House, Capitol and other important buildings.

KSNV reported several fires burning in the greater Las Vegas area, mainly businesses that had been torched by looters. To compound the fire problem, potshots were being taken at firefighters, who were having to be escorted and guarded by overburdened police officers. Conflicting reports suggested that the mayor of Las Vegas had requested National Guard support from the Governor’s office, which were denied by a city spokesman, then confirmed by a governor’s spokesman, then denied by a different spokesman for the governor. Confusion seemed to be the order of the day.

Jose had a whispered conversation with Maria and Monica in the kitchen, and then he and Monica went outside, taking Andy’s keys, which Third had tossed on the kitchen table upon coming in, with them.

Maria looked at her husband from the kitchen doorway and walked down into the living room to sit beside him. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders without saying a word, staring at the screen without really understanding what he was watching.

Maria was certain he was adding Andy and Gloria’s names to the list of people he blamed himself for not protecting, after his mom and his grandparents. She wasn’t certain that talking would help, at least until he was ready to, so she simply sat with him and held him.

The picture on CNN switched from the anchor desk to the White House Press Briefing Room. Third un-muted the sound. A spokesperson was approaching the podium.

“Good afternoon. President Clinton and her senior advisers have been monitoring the ongoing unlawful activities occurring across the nation in the wake of the declared financial holiday.

“Acting upon the advice of those advisers, and under the authority provided her under the state of unlimited national emergency declared earlier, the President has declared a state of martial law to exist throughout the United States. A curfew has been declared from 7 PM through 7 AM, local times. Any persons not in their homes or place of employment, or directly en route to or from those places, is subject to being fired on or detained indefinitely. This nightly curfew will be in place until further notice.

“The President has, through the Secretary of Defense, authorized the use of active-duty military personnel to assist state and local authorities in the maintenance of public order and public safety functions. The President believes these actions are within her authority as Commander-in-Chief and meet the conditions of the Insurrection Act, as amended. Questions?”

“Q: Will soldiers and marines be making arrests or using lethal force?”

“The President is hopeful that law enforcement as such will continue to be conducted by local authorities, and that the armed forces will only be necessary to provide additional manpower for support functions. These forces are, of course, fully able to use deadly force to protect themselves as well as first responders and civilians under standard rules of engagement. Yes?

“Q: Will the federal government be seizing or confiscating any firearms, as occurred in New Orleans?”

“As a rule, no. Certain specific situations may require a limited, temporary seizure – and I emphasize temporary – but any seizures will be extremely limited both in scope and duration and will be repealed at the earliest possible opportunity. One more question. Frank?”

“Q: Is the President planning action against the Chinese government, including military action?”

“The President is prepared to take any necessary action against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that attempt to harm the national or economic security of the United States. I’m sorry, that’s all I have time for right now.”

The spokesman left the podium to a sea of reporters yelling questions, waving their hands and otherwise clamoring for attention.

Third muted the TV again and set the remote down on the coffee table. “Well, what do you think of that, my love?” he said quietly, surprising Maria. Those were the first words he had spoken since coming back from Andy’s.

“Well, things are either a lot worse than we’re being told, or, Hillary’s taking advantage of a temporary crisis to solve a lot of things that she hasn’t been able to address so far.” Maria paused for a moment. “Remember Rahm Emmanuel, Obama’s first chief of staff? He once said something to the effect of ‘Never let a serious crisis go to waste; it’s an opportunity to do things you could not do before.’”

Third nodded. “Well said, love. Just so. I imagine restrictions on gold, silver, and other precious metals will be next. Under that state of emergency she declared, the government can, in theory anyway, seize a lot of things – stockpiled food, money, vehicles, guns, ammo, property, and so on.”

“You said ‘in theory’, hon. What do you mean?”

“Well, in theory, because it’s never happened before – except with the guns during Katrina, and most of that was local agencies,” Third explained. “Same with the looting – hell the authorities were stealing more than the looters were, at times.”

“So they could just come in and steal all our stuff, everything that you and your Granddad did?” Maria had an astonished look on her face.

“They could try,” Third said with a wry half-grin on his face. “If they can find it. I suspect many gun dealers and companies like Emergency Essentials and Utah Shelter Systems are about to have a wave of break-ins and fires where only business records are stolen or destroyed. Much harder to track holders of PMs, LTS foods and guns if the records are all burned, stolen, or hidden somewhere.”

Maria shook her head. “I never really thought it’d come to that, in this country.”

“A lot of people didn’t,” Third agreed, “which, in a way, is why it has – if people didn’t believe it would happen, they wouldn’t be on the alert. An author from the early 1900s, Sinclair Lewis I think was his name, wrote a novel called ‘It Can’t Happen Here,’ about a dictatorship rising to power in America. His whole point was it can happen here. Who knows? Maybe it is now.”

“So what do we do now, Third?” she asked.

Third sighed. “Keep our heads down and our power dry, is about all I can think of. I’m thinking about going over to the saloon, let Leadfather know what happened to Andy and see what his plans are.”

“That’s a good idea, hon,” Maria said. “If he’s open, let’s have dinner there with Jose and Monica.”

Third smiled. “I’d like that.” He looked around. “Say, where are those two? I haven’t seen them since we got back.”

“Jose and Monica went over to clean up Andy’s place. Jose had the idea and mentioned it to me in the kitchen, right after we got back, when you sat down in here,” Maria explained.

“That’s darn considerate of those two, especially Monica, after what she’s been through,” Third exclaimed.

The front door opened and closed, and Third got up to see Jose and Monica hanging up their coats in the hall closet.

“Looks like you two have been busy,” Third said.

“We did the best we could at Andy’s place,” Jose said quietly, as Monica hung onto his arm. “I’m afraid the carpet will require some more work. Everything else looks okay now. I secured a couple of blue plastic tarps I found in Andy’s garage over the car.”

Third put a hand on Jose’s & Monica’s shoulders. “Thanks, you two. That’s about the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me – except Maria marrying me, that is.” Third looked over his shoulder at Maria standing in the living room doorway.

“Yeah, little sister outranks us there,” Jose said.

“Why don’t we all get cleaned up?” Third suggested. “I need to talk to Leadfather, and if he’s open for business, we can have dinner there.”

About 5 PM that afternoon

The parking lot of the Mountain Springs Saloon was mostly empty when Jose pulled his Grand Cherokee into the lot and parked next to Leadfather’s old pickup. Three or four motorcycles were parked together, and Third recognized them all as regulars.

“Customers, by God!” Leadfather exclaimed as the foursome walked in the door. “And good ones, too! Take that table over by the slots. How’ve you been, Third?”

“Had better days, had worse days,” Third replied, “but not many. You remember a friend of mine and Senior’s named Andy Simone?”

“Simone, Simone… yeah, he’s a delegate with the Sheet Metal Union, isn’t he? Came in for lunch with Senior a couple times.” Leadfather got a good look at Third’s face. “What happened, Third?”

“Andy and his wife moved into Jerry Watkins’ place last week. They were attacked by a mob looting the Walgreens in Enterprise this morning. Andy managed to make it back here, but Gloria was dead and Andy” - Third gave a big sigh - “died before the ambulance could get here.”

“Ah damn it all, Third,” Leadfather spat out and gave Third a big bear hug. “Senior thought the world of him, as I remember.”

“I did too. He helped get the family through losing my folks, then kept me going when I lost my grandfolks in that DUI wreck 15 years ago. Even gave us a heads up on this financial crisis, gave us a chance to get some money out of the bank and some preparations made.”

“You and Maria doing okay?” Leadfather asked, smiling at Maria. “Haven’t seen this pretty young lady in a while.”

“You’re just an old flirt, Leadfather,” Maria said, blushing. “You remember my brother Jose, from the wedding? And this is his girl-, well, his friend, Monica.”

“Hello again, Jose, glad to see you’re okay. Monica, I’m Leadfather, and I try to run this joint. Welcome.”

“Thank you, sir,” Monica said quietly.

“None of that sir stuff now, young lady,” Leadfather said with a laugh. “I work for a living. What can I get you folks to start with?”

“I guess Maria and I’ll have a beer – Monica?”

“I don’t drink – is coffee okay?” she asked.

“Of course it is, Monica,” Leadfather said. “Not a problem. Beer for you, Jose?” He nodded. Leadfather had the waitress get the drink order.

“Wasn’t sure you’d be open with everything going on,” Third said, as the waitress came over with three beers and a coffee for Monica.

“This place is my life,” Leadfather replied, as he pulled a stool over to the table. “I suspect I’ll be buried under the floorboards when my time comes. Not for a while, mind you.”

At the mention of “my time comes,” Monica went pale and ran for the ladies’ room. “I’ll check on her,” Maria said quietly and followed.

“Did I say something wrong, Third?” Leadfather asked, looking towards the ladies’ room.

“No, Lead, I guess I should’ve said something earlier,” Third replied. “Jose and Monica were next-door neighbors in an apartment complex in Vegas. There was a fire Sunday night, five dead, eight units destroyed, including Jose’s & Monica’s apartments. She lost her brother and his wife.”

“Ah, crap,” Leadfather said and kicked at the floor. “I’m sorry, Jose, I didn’t know.”

“No worries, man, but thanks,” Jose said. “Losing her brother & sister-in-law, then seeing Andy and Gloria today – well, it’s been a rough week, y’know?”

Leadfather nodded. “World’s going into the crapper, that’s for sure. Well, Third, at least you guys are set up pretty good.”

“I think so, but that depends on what happens,” Third replied. “What’re you planning to do, Lead?”

“I’m going to stay open as long as I’ve got beer to pour and burgers to cook,” Leadfather said. “Speaking of burgers, can I set you guys up with four?”

“Good idea, Lead,” Third said, as Maria and Monica came out of the ladies’ room. Lead got up and told the bartender to get the burger order in, and then walked over towards the two women. He put a hand on Monica’s shoulder and said something, and in return got a smile and a kiss on the cheek.

“I don’t know what he said, Jose,” Third said as the women rejoined them, “but it was spot on.”

“Sorry about that,” Monica said, looking embarrassed. “I just – well, it’s been a long couple days.”

“You’re okay?” Jose asked, looking into her eyes.

“I’m fine,” she replied, holding his hand on the table and giving him a kiss.

“I ordered burgers and fries for everyone, if that’s okay … and here they are,” Third said, as Leadfather brought two plates over for Maria and Monica and went back to the bar for Third’s and Jose’s.

For a few minutes, the events of the past few days were pushed aside if not forgotten, and the two couples enjoyed a good meal. All declined a second beer and Leadfather brought over coffee for the three and a refill for Monica.

Third checked his watch and was surprised to see it was nearly 6:30 PM. “Well, I guess we better think about heading out. I don’t know if they’re going to be enforcing that curfew way out here, but no sense taking chances.” The four stood up and Third went to pay the tab, while the others got their coats on.

“Leaving already, Third?” Leadfather looked up from the far end of the bar as Third walked over.

“Yeah, didn’t you hear on the news? Curfew from 7 PM to 7 AM across the country. The White House announced it earlier, along with martial law.”

“Shee-it, I was out back cleaning up and doing some repair work, didn’t listen to the news all afternoon,” Leadfather shook his head. “I’d better tell Margie to sound last call and start closing up, not that we’re doing that much business today.”

“You and Margie still got somethin’ going on?” Third said with a wise-guy grin.

Leadfather smiled. “Yeah, more often that not,” he replied.

“Well, why don’t you two come over for Thanksgiving with us? We’ve got plenty of room and plenty of food,”Third offered, as he pulled his wallet out to pay.

“Sounds good, Third. I’ll double-check with Margie and let you know if there’s a problem,” Leadfather replied. “And you can just put that wallet away. My treat tonight. Keep your cash handy.”

“Much appreciated, Lead. Hope to see you two Thursday. Stay loose and give me a call if you need anything, ok?”

“Will do, Third. Take it easy.”

The two men shook hands and Third joined the others at the front door, as they headed out to Jose’s Grand Cherokee for the quick drive home.

Back at home

The porch had four chairs this evening, with Monica and Jose on one side of the table and Third and Maria on the other. Nobody was drinking, but Third and Jose each had a cigar going.

“Oh, by the way, Maria, we’ll have two guests coming for Thanksgiving,” Third said. “Leadfather and Margie are probably coming over for dinner.”

“Leadfather and Margie?” Maria said, sounding surprised. “I didn’t know they were, well, an item.”

“Lead’s a pretty mellow guy, once you get past the exterior,” Third replied, “and Margie’s a sweetheart too - again, once you get past the exterior. Not as sweet as you of course.”

“Nice save, Third,” Maria said laughingly.

[9idrr]

Go ahead, just keep right on feedin' my habit.
Just a quick hint, that maybe "Keep our heads down and our power dry" should be "powder" instead?

[brucearmstrong65]

Aug 2, 2016 21:21:35 GMT -6 9idrr said:

Go ahead, just keep right on feedin' my habit.
Just a quick hint, that maybe "Keep our heads down and our power dry" should be "powder" instead?

Good catch - but y'know, as any electrician will tell you, keeping your power dry is also excellent advice. Thanks!

[willc453]

It Can't Happen Here published 1935 and is available free in pdf and other forms. Sorry, but as a retarded computer geek, couldn't get the address to copy.

Also liked the line of "Will the federal government be seizing or confiscating any firearms, as occurred in New Orleans?”
“As a rule, absolutely not. Certain specific situations may require a limited, temporary seizure – and I emphasize temporary – but any seizures will be extremely limited both in scope and duration and will be repealed at the earliest possible opportunity. One more question. Frank?”

No doubt this is a major furball neither the cops or military is even wanting to handle. Remember, we're from the govt. and here to help you.

[brucearmstrong65]

Aug 3, 2016 0:12:46 GMT -6 willc453 said:

It Can't Happen Here published 1935 and is available free in pdf and other forms. Sorry, but as a retarded computer geek, couldn't get the address to copy.

Also liked the line of "Will the federal government be seizing or confiscating any firearms, as occurred in New Orleans?”
“As a rule, absolutely not. Certain specific situations may require a limited, temporary seizure – and I emphasize temporary – but any seizures will be extremely limited both in scope and duration and will be repealed at the earliest possible opportunity. One more question. Frank?”

No doubt this is a major furball neither the cops or military is even wanting to handle. Remember, we're from the govt. and here to help you.

Project Gutenberg Australia has It Can't Happen Here - gutenberg.net.au/ebooks03/0301001h.html

The University of Adelaide also has it - ebooks.adelaide.edu.au/l/lewis/sinclair/happen/

[pbbrown0]

Also liked the line of "Will the federal government be seizing or confiscating any firearms, as occurred in New Orleans?”
“As a rule, absolutely not. Certain specific situations may require a limited, temporary seizure – and I emphasize temporary – but any seizures will be extremely limited both in scope and duration and will be repealed at the earliest possible opportunity. One more question. Frank?”

Read more: pawfiction.proboards.com/thread/638/welderman#ixzz4GHXfIu96



Hmm.. I seem to recall videos on the internet after the bomb went off during the Boston Marathon showing military style forces (Swat? Mass. National Guard?) with armored vehicles going through neighborhoods searching house by house without warrants. "specific situations" is a pretty ambiguous term leaving it wide open for anyone to interpret.

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 21

Wednesday, November 25 – 7 AM

Maria found Third sitting at the kitchen table with a notepad, making notes and drinking coffee. Jose and Monica were both still asleep in the two spare bedrooms, the supplies that had been stored in one having been moved to the basement and the shelter earlier in the week.

“Whatcha working on, sweetie?” Maria said, hugging Third from behind and kissing him on the cheek.

“Oh, just making a list of things I forgot to do before the stuff hit the fan,” Third replied. “Think you could top me off there, hon?”

“Of course,” Maria said, filling her own cup and then bringing the pot over to refill Third’s. “What kind of things?”

“Well, I’m going to call Jack Bishop and see if he’s got any firewood left that he’d be willing to deliver,” Third replied, looking at the pad. “I’d like to get to a store and see if we can get some fresh stuff, eggs and like that. We’ve got plenty of powdered milk and eggs down below, but I’d like to have fresh stuff while we can.”

“Speaking of fresh stuff, I’m going to bake some bread later on,” Maria mentioned. “Can you bring up some flour and yeast from the basement?”

“Sure thing, hon. Ten pounds of flour and one jar enough?”

“Should be plenty, Third. Even with your appetite.”

“You never complained about my appetites before,” Third said, trying not to smile.

Maria blushed and was composing a suitable reply when Jose and Monica, still yawning, came into the kitchen and headed straight for the coffee maker.

“Morning Third, sis,” Jose said after his first sip of coffee. “What’s up?”

“Just working on a list of things to do today,” Third answered. “You feel like chancing a trip into town today?”

“Do we need anything that badly?” Jose asked.

“No, but like I was saying to Maria, I’d like to have fresh stuff while it’s available.”

“Well, I’ll go if you want to, Third,” Jose said, then paused for a sip of coffee, “but I’m not sure it’s a good idea. Maybe it’s time to lay low, rely on what we’ve got – I mean, what you’ve -”

Third held up his hand. “Hold it right there, Jose. We’re family and we’re in this together. That includes you too, Monica, for as long as you can put up with Jose.”

Monica smiled, and then looked over at Jose. “Thanks, Third. I think I can put up with him for a while.”

After breakfast, Third picked up the phone and dialed Jack Bishop.

“Jack’s Tree Service & Firewood, Jack speaking.”

“Good to hear your voice, Jack! John Welderman here.”

“John! Long time no talk to – you keeping your head down up there?”

“Trying to. Had a little trouble yesterday but we’re okay.”

“We?”

Third laughed. “Yes, we. I got married on Halloween. My brother-in-law and his girl are up here too, since the stuff hit the fan.”

“Boy, it has that, hasn’t it? City’s getting damned squirrelly. I’m heading out for my brother’s place in Pahrump as soon as I can get closed up down here.”

“Any chance of getting some firewood before you close up shop?”

“That’s doable. How much you want?”

“At least a cord, but I’ll pay cash for everything you can get up here.”

“Well, I’ve got nearly a full dump truck load ready to roll right now, I’d say 4 to 4-1/2 cords’ worth. $800 delivered sound ok? I can’t stack it for you, I’m running solo today, but I can dump it in an open space.”

Third was surprised. “Only $800? I’m not complaining, mind you, but don’t short yourself.”

“Hey, you’ve been a good customer over the years, John – and John Senior, before you. Nobody’s getting shorted here.”

“Bring it on up then, and I’ll pay you cash on the barrelhead.”

“Good deal, John. I’ll tow my Ram behind it. I’ll need a hand to unhook the truck before we dump the wood. End of your road like before?”

“Same spot, Jack. We’ll have four warm bodies to lend a hand with whatever you need.”

“All right, John. I should be there within an hour, good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise.”

“We’ll be ready, Jack.”

“Well!” Third exclaimed as he set down the cordless handset. “Worked out for everybody, didn’t it?” He glanced at the others. “You three mind working outside in about an hour?” Three heads nodded. “Good deal.”

An hour later

Good as his word, Jack pulled up in front of Red’s place in an hour and hopped out of the cab of a dump truck loaded almost to overflowing with wood. Towed behind the dump truck was a gorgeous forest green 2016 Dodge Ram 2500 with magnetic signs on both sides advertising his business.

Third was outside waiting for him and shook hands as the others came outside. The Ram was unhooked and parked in Andy’s driveway. Jack maneuvered the dump truck where Third directed and dumped the wood in a vacant area at the end of the dead end street. A little maneuvering and the Ram was hooked back up to the dump truck.

Third pulled ten $100 bills from his shirt pocket and handed them to Jack, who immediately tried to hand two back. “Call it a well-deserved delivery charge, Jack,” Third said, refusing the money. “I’m darn grateful you got out here as quick as you did.”

“You keep your head down, John, you hear me? Vegas is falling apart at the seams.”

“Will do, Jack. You watch yourself too.”

Jack climbed back into the dump truck’s cab, started up the engine, and pulled away with a wave.

“Well, I don’t think we’ll be lacking for work to do for a while, getting all that stacked up,” Third said. “Let’s fill the back patio, then we’ll stack and tarp it back by the shed and over the shelter.”

Maria and Monica moved what firewood was already on the back porch into the house on the fireplace hearth while Jose and Third traded shifts moving wood with the wheelbarrow and stacking it on the back porch. After an hour’s steady work, the back porch was as full as Third wanted it. Third then staked out where he wanted the rest of the wood stacked, which they would let wait until Friday, and covered the dumped pile with several large tarps.

Despite the cold temperatures, Third and Jose were both sweating by the time they finished with the last tarp, weighing it down with several of the logs.

Jose sat down on a large upended log and caught his breath, as he looked at Third surveying the neighborhood from the end of the street. “What’s it all about, Third? You look worried.”

“That obvious, is it?” Third laughed and sat down on another log. “I’m wondering where everybody is. Andy pulls up in a beat-up, shot-up Mercedes, and nobody but us comes out. A Metro PD car and an ambulance, both going Code 3, pull up – and nobody comes out. Eleven houses and nobody else comes out. That seem strange to you?”

“Yeah, come to think of it, it does, Third,” Jose said. “What kind of people are your neighbors?”

Third look a bit chagrined. “Tell you the truth, Jose, I don’t know anymore, even before this,” he admitted. “Most everybody my granddad knew, the people who built up here, sold years ago, or died. I’m wondering if these are vacation homes for people who live in Vegas or California.” He looked around. “And, to be honest, I was never the most sociable person, particularly after losing my grandparents in that accident.”

“You think we ought to check on the neighborhood, go door-to-door maybe?” Jose suggested.

Third smiled. “Excellent idea, mi compadre!” He stood up and stretched his back. “Let’s go get cleaned up, have some lunch and relax a bit, and then take a walk around.”

The two men went inside and were washing up when the phone rang. Third, in the kitchen, wiped his hands and picked up the cordless handset. “Welderman residence.”

“Third! Leadfather here. How’s it going over there today?”

“Fair to middling, Lead. How’s things with you?”

“Can’t complain – Margie’s tired of listening if I do, so what’s the point?”

“Same with Maria, Lead. So what can I do ya for today?”

“Well, I got hold of my wholesale supplier to stock up until this economic thing settles down, and I was wondering if you wanted to order anything. He’ll be heading up here this afternoon, so I need to let him know pretty quick. Interested?”

“Sure am, Lead. Couple flats of eggs and a couple gallons of milk, at least. Several loaves of bread would be good too. What quantity do your hamburgers come in?”

“10-pound boxes. Want a couple?”

“If it’s not too much trouble, sure would. Couple bags of potatoes and onions, too.”

“Okay, Third. I’ll call him and up the order. Should be up here by 4 PM. I’ll call you when he gets here.”

“Much appreciated, Lead. Everyone here says hello – and thanks.”

“No problemo, Third. I’m out.”

Third put the phone handset back on the charging cradle and sat down at the table. “Man, that’s twice today I’ve gotten lucky and filled in some holes in our preps.”

Maria brought over two bowls of chili and put one each in front of Jose and Third before going back for hers and Monica’s. “So we’re looking pretty good then?”

“I think so, hon,” Third replied as he crumbled some crackers into his bowl and stirred it up. “Four-alarm chili this time?”

“Nah, I made it milder,” she replied. “One Maalox at most.”

Later that afternoon – 5 PM

Third and Jose did the walk around that afternoon, knocking on each of the other 11 houses in their informal community on the south side of Nevada 160. The only sign of life was at a house on Benedict Drive, where the living room curtain moved slightly when Third knocked. The two men finished their walking tour by going up the side of Nevada 160 and crossed over to Fire Station 79, a Forest Service facility. They found the station locked up tight, with no sign of personnel, equipment, or vehicles. Somewhat disheartened, Third and Jose walked back home, reporting their lack of success to Maria and Monica.

Leadfather called about 4:30 and told them the truck was on the way up the hill from Enterprise. Both couples got in the Grand Cherokee and drove the short distance to the Mountain Springs Saloon, to have an early dinner as well as pick up the grocery items Third had ordered through Leadfather.

They parked in the half-full parking lot and went in the front door, where Margie greeted them and said the truck had just come in, and Leadfather was out back signing for the delivery. Third and Jose went through to the back and helped Leadfather get everything inside the kitchen and the storeroom.

When they finished unloading the truck and putting things away as directed by Leadfather, there was still a considerable pile of food products sitting on a worktable just outside the back door.

“What about this stuff, Lead?” Third gestured to the pile.

“That’s yours, Third,” Leadfather said.

The “pile” contained a couple of flats of eggs, a dozen loaves of bread, a couple dozen hamburger buns, several gallons of milk, two 50-pound bags of potatoes and one of onions, half-a-dozen boxes of hamburger patties and several industrial-size jars of condiments.

“Little more than you expected?” Leadfather said with a grin.

“Any more and we’d have to open up a saloon to use it all up,” Third replied, “but thanks. We’ll use it, freeze it, or preserve it somehow. Can’t waste anything now, that’s for sure.”

“Well, it’ll be safe enough right here,” Leadfather nodded. “Let’s go in and get something to eat.”

The two couples and Leadfather were at the same table as previous, all having burgers and fries. Nobody felt like drinking that night, so Margie brought five mugs and a fresh pot of coffee over and left the pot on the table.

Third relayed what news he’d heard to Leadfather, which wasn’t much, including the departure of Jack Bishop after making his last delivery.

“I’ve known Jack Bishop for, gosh, 20 years at least,” Leadfather said, shaking his head. “If he’s worried enough to pull out of Vegas, it’s not only serious, it’s probably critical.”

The five sat around, drinking coffee after finishing their dinner, until Margie rang a bell behind the bar. “Last call, everyone,” she said. “Don’t forget the curfew at seven.”

Third and Leadfather settled up the bill for the bulk supplies, as Jose and the women got in the Grand Cherokee and pulled around back. The two men got the supplies loaded up, just barely getting everything in, finally having to hand the hamburger buns to Maria to carry on her lap.

“Don’t forget Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow, Lead,” Maria called out as Third got in the back seat with her. “Bring Margie by anytime. Turkey’ll be ready about 3.”

“Sounds great, Maria,” Leadfather said, as he closed the door and waved as Jose pulled away.

A few minutes later, and the four were in Third’s garage, unloading the Grand Cherokee. The eggs went into the kitchen; everything else went into the basement freezer, refrigerator or shelves.

“I suspect Lead cut us a break on that food,” Third said quietly, as he and Maria stood surveying a basement that was nearly full to overflowing.

“We’ve got a lot to be thankful for, Third,” Maria replied. “Food, shelter, good friends like Leadfather.”

“And each other,” Third said softly.

“Oh, most definitely, mi esposa,” Maria said, turning to kiss him.

[9idrr]

"as any electrician will tell you, keeping your power dry is also excellent advice"
Ah, you pros think you know it all. Any redneck handyman knows that all you need to do wiring is a butterknife/screwdriver and a couple of top and bottom teeth for strippin' insulation off an extension cord an' you can repair anything. Hell, as for dry, any Okie worth his bibs can prove to you that water's the best ground there is. Next time you wife's in the tub, just turn on the hair dryer and toss it in with her. Bet that's the the quickest short to ground you'll ever see. Great way to check fuses/circuit breakers, too.

[brucearmstrong65]

Welderman – Chapter 22

Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2020 – 7 AM

Maria and Monica were up early Thanksgiving morning and had been working away in the kitchen for more than an hour when Third and Jose came downstairs. Maria directed them into the living room where she had just sat down a tray with an Oggi Pumpmaster full of fresh-brewed coffee, two mugs, and two plates of toast. “Relax in here, gentlemen,” she said with a smile. “The kitchen is off limits until further notice. There’ll be plenty for you two to do later.”

Jose started to speak but Third just raised his hand and shook his head. “First lesson of marriage, my man: Know when to be quiet,” he said with a grin, as he dispensed coffee for the both of them and handed Jose a plate and a mug. Third picked up the remote and switched to CNN.

The national situation seemed to have deteriorated significantly overnight. Major cities were reported increased rioting, looting, and arson, as well as armed attacks against police officers; the Justice Department estimated at least 100 officers and 20 firefighters had died since disturbances started Monday.

Third shook his head and switched the TV to KSNV News 3 in Las Vegas. The big news locally was the destruction of the University Plaza shopping center on East Tropicana by fire. Fire officials reported that the blaze was deliberately started by persons looting a smoke shop and spread quickly to the rest of the stores in the center, including a Vons supermarket. No fatalities were reported but several firefighters were injured when a wall collapsed, as well as a security guard who was trying to help evacuate shoppers from the Vons. Casualties were being treated at the University Medical Center.

Jose looked from the TV set to Third. “Franklin,” he said quietly.

Third nodded his head. “Probably so. Well, at least they just said injured, I guess that’s something.”

“He’s a good guy,” Jose said. “Called the cops more than once when he saw something going on at my complex. Always a good word to say.” Jose shook his head. “Hell, sometimes I’d walk over just to B.S. with him.”

“Maybe you will again someday – you never know,” Third suggested.

“I’d like that, but I don’t think I’ll be going back there, at least to that complex. Guess you can’t count on anything anymore.” Jose sighed and set his half-eaten toast down. “I’m gonna go up and get showered, then maybe take a walk” - he glanced toward the kitchen and smiled - “if I can sneak Monica out of the kitchen for a bit.”

An idea was forming in the back of Third’s head, not fully formed, just a shadow of a thought. He filed it away for the moment.

Picking up his coffee and the last piece of toast, he wandered over to the kitchen and stood in the living room doorway, watching the two women working and chattering and enjoying the good smells and the warmth, both physical and emotional. How in the hell did Jose and I get this lucky? Third thought. Maria looked up and saw him studying her, and smiled.

“Why aren’t you in the living room, Mister?” Maria asked with mock sternness.

“Technically I am, dear,” Third said, pointing to his toes, which were (just barely) in the living room.

Maria and Monica glanced at each other and simultaneously said, “Men,” then laughed.

“Jose and I watched a bit of news and then he went up to take a shower and get dressed,” Third said. “I’ll head up afterwards and do the same.”

“Anything new,” Maria said, “or do I not want to ask that question?”

Third shook his head. “No different than yesterday,” he replied. “Same stuff, different day.”

“Did they cancel the games today?”

“No, but the paper said they weren’t sure how much of a crowd would be on hand.” Third finished his coffee and placed the mug in the sink. Before Maria could say a word, Third said, “I know, I’m going.” He headed for the staircase and met Jose on the landing, coming down.

“Good luck getting Monica out of that kitchen,” Third said with a smile. “Oh, if you and her go for that walk, do me a favor and take your pistol, ok? We probably ought to do that whenever we leave the house anymore.”

Jose nodded and after a second, “Helluva world when we have to do that, isn’t it?”

“Helluva world indeed,” Third agreed as he headed upstairs. “But needs must.”

A couple hours later

Jose did manage to get Monica out of the kitchen for that walk, and as promised, he did carry his S&W Governor pistol. Maria saw Jose’s hangdog expression as he stood at the kitchen doorway and shooed the two lovebirds out the front door. Jose turned his head and winked at Maria, standing in the front doorway, as he and Monica headed towards the street.

Third came down, turned the TV back on and switched to CBS for the first football game, between the Lions and the Vikings in Detroit, which was scheduled to start at 9:30 AM. He turned the volume up and went into the kitchen.

“Need a hand, young lady?” he asked.

“You could baste the turkey, if you’d like,” Maria said. “After that, there’s a pile of potatoes that could use peeling.” She saw the look on Third’s face at seeing one side of the kitchen sink nearly filled with wet potatoes. “You asked.”

They both laughed as Third basted the turkey and then set to work on the potatoes.

The two worked in a companionable silence for a time, with the pre-game show droning on in the background.

A noise from the front door indicated Jose and Monica had gotten back from their walk. The two came into the kitchen and sat down at the kitchen table. Both looked red-cheeked and were breathing a bit harder than normal.

“Awful quiet out there,” Jose remarked. “No activity anywhere. Can’t even hear traffic from the highway.”

“It’s often like that,” Third said, as he plunked another peeled potato into a pot of water and picked up his next victim from the sink. “We never hear the highway noise up here. The lack of neighborhood noise is a little creepy, though.”

From the living room, the opening strains of the National Anthem could be heard. Third looked at his watch – 9:45 AM. Maria saw the gesture and said, “Oh, go on then, Monica and I can finish up here.”

Third handed the peeler and half-finished potato to Monica and wiped his hands on a dish towel. “Thank you, ladies. You’ll know where to find me and Jose for the next few hours.”

Just as he stepped into the living room from the kitchen, there was a loud noise from the TV and the signal was interrupted. After a few seconds, the white noise and static was replaced by a “Technical Difficulties” card, which was followed about a minute later by a pale, frightened looking newscaster.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we have lost our signal from Detroit. The Associated Press is reporting a major explosion at or near Ford Field in downtown Detroit. We have no communication from any of our personnel at the Lions-Vikings game. Please stand by.”

The newscaster pressed his right hand to his ear and looked to his right at his laptop. “I’m being told – we’re receiving a signal from our Detroit affiliate CBS 62 – we should have that up for you in just a moment.”

The picture switched to a shaky camera shot of a large mushroom-shaped cloud in the distance. An off-camera voice said, “This is CBS 62 Detroit. We’re broadcasting from the roof of our station building in Southfield. You are looking at a mushroom cloud from the direction of Ford Field in downtown Detroit, where the pre-game ceremonies in the Vikings-Lions game were just concluding. We can only assume that this cloud is the result of a nuclear explosion of some sort. We are operating on emergency power at this time and will continue to transmit a signal as long as possible. If you are in the greater Detroit-Windsor area, you should probably seek shelter immediately in a basement or interior room.”

Third sat open-mouthed, staring at the screen. He flipped around to MSNBC, Fox, CNN and back to CBS. All were showing the same picture from CBS 62 in Detroit.

There was a scream from behind Third, and he turned to see Monica, sobbing, clutching to Maria. Jose jumped up and ran to her side, holding her in a crushing hug. After a minute, he led her upstairs, her sobs still audible.

Third switched back to CNN, set down the remote, and walked over to Maria, still standing in the kitchen doorway, tears in her eyes, wringing a dish towel in her hands. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her head to his shoulder. As they stood there, the announcer talking in the background, Third could hear Maria quietly reciting the last part of the Hail Mary: “Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”

[brucearmstrong65]

Aug 3, 2016 19:51:38 GMT -6 9idrr said:

"as any electrician will tell you, keeping your power dry is also excellent advice"
Ah, you pros think you know it all. Any redneck handyman knows that all you need to do wiring is a butterknife/screwdriver and a couple of top and bottom teeth for strippin' insulation off an extension cord an' you can repair anything. Hell, as for dry, any Okie worth his bibs can prove to you that water's the best ground there is. Next time you wife's in the tub, just turn on the hair dryer and toss it in with her. Bet that's the the quickest short to ground you'll ever see. Great way to check fuses/circuit breakers, too.

The old hair dryer in the bathtub routine, eh? Talk about a quickie divorce...