We just received this very interesting infogram from securitydegreehub.com/bioterrorism. No one wants to even think about such a terrible thing happening to anyone; but from the history and information below, it has occurred with devastating results. We must be better prepared.
If you have never been involved with the energy industry, take time to read these interesting facts sent to us by Grattan Boyland of http://northseaworkwear.com. He has given historical information in an infograph highlighting just how much is demanded of workers who work in oilfields on land, or offshore. Providing us with power is a hazardous job that puts huge demands on workers, who must have the equipment to stay safe on the job. Texas America Safety Company, our parent company, also provides the same personal protective equipment that is required for worker safety. 
Every year Halloween is celebrated on the 31st of October. The origins of Halloween can be traced all the way back to the 5th century BC. The celebration was originally adopted by the Romans in the first century AD. Two different Roman traditions that took place in October became a single holiday. The practice of dressing up a costume began a more ceremonial role as the belief in spirit possession lessened.
The distinct American version of Halloween has its origins in the separate beliefs and customs among many different European ethnic groups and the American Indians, which led to the history of the act of trick or treating. Kicking off early celebrations were public events that celebrated the harvest. Neighbors would often gather and share tales of the dead, reiterate ghost stories, and enlighten each other with fortunes.
In the United States, European immigrants had introduced Halloween by the 1840’s. The immigrants brought with them an assortment of holiday traditions and customs. Due to rigid religious beliefs during this time period, the act of celebrating Halloween was greatly restricted. Irish immigrants to the United States began the popularization of the celebration nationally. The traditions of the Irish and English led to trick or treating. People would go house to house asking for food or money.
Trick or Treating is a great way for kids to have fun; however Halloween is no longer restricted to the kids, as adults dress up and attend Halloween parties to have fun and impress coworkers, friends, and peers. Also, the expense of this holiday has expanded. According to the National Retail Federation, an estimated $6.9 billion nationwide will be spent to celebrate All Hallows Eve. Their figures for 2010 showed Halloween decorations brought in $1.6B, and candy sales amounted to $1.8B. This means that it has since become the second largest commercial holiday in the United States. Many people enjoy decorating their homes. It is common to see pumpkins carved, hay, straw, spider webs, strobe lights, and scary masks. People will often even try to scare others who are trick or treating at their home. Men, women, and children attend costume parties and wear disguises to both school and work. Haunted Houses have also become largely popular – where people walk through the dark and try to not get too scared and freaked out.
Like all holidays, Halloween is one to be enjoyed but should not be taken too lightly. Candy could potentially be harmful and must be inspected before given to children. In addition, parents need to follow their children while they are trick or treating. It is also essential to take the time to make sure the children wear costumes that are bright and colorful, sometimes by adding some high-visibility decals or stickers.
We wish all little goblins a “Happy and Safe Halloween,” and for you big “ghouls and boys,” make it a safe one, as well! See you in November!
Whether the “luck of the Irish” is myth or fact, it is a fact that Wednesday, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day, and folks of Ireland observe it as both a national and religious holiday. Others worldwide celebrate the day regardless of their heritage. St. Patrick’s Day Parades and other activities started this past weekend, and green beer has started flowing! For those of us who know little about St. Patrick, here’s a wee bit of information:
Fifth century Ireland was a lost world, both to archaeologists and historians. What little is known about the life and work of Patrick comes from his own writings in Latin, now accepted as authentic. Written in his old age, he said he was a native of Roman Britain, the son of a deacon who lived in the village of Bannaven Taberniae. He was captured by Irish raiders at the age of sixteen, and sold into bondage to watch over swine and sheep on the slopes of Slemish mountain for a chief named Milchu. During his captivity, his thoughts turned to God, and he spent many hours in solitary prayer. Following his escape, he spent 15 years studying religion, and then returned to Ireland to spread Christianity throughout the country. He died on March 17, 493, A.D., the date later chosen to honor him. Many of the accounts of the history of St. Patrick vary, but his legacy for the success of the Christian movement in Ireland will always live on.
Being descendants of great Celtic and Viking fighters and invaders, the Irish had great fighting skills; because they survived many battles, they became known as “lucky people”. There is other folklore that comes from the Green Isle:
We hope you have enjoyed some of the background of this special day, and want to share this Irish wish with you:
“May the leprechauns be near you,
To spread luck along your way.
And may Irish angels
Smile upon you St. Patrick’s Day.”
It’s our hope that Irish angels smile on all of you every day, and bring you good fortune! Whether we are at work or play, we mustn’t depend on luck, however. Sometimes a little luck goes a long way, but other times, we simply run out of it. Keep yourself safe always. If you want to carry a lucky charm in your pocket, that’s great, but the key to staying safe is paying attention and being careful. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! (Don’t forget to wear green!)