Many of our employees are "ill" on payday Friday, and today is no exception. This is a phenomenon I've never understood, but it is well-documented. Ever since the institution of direct deposit, with the money available first thing on Friday morning, payday Friday has been an attendance problem.

Later this morning I'm going to a ceremony to honor those people who have perfect safety records (often for many years in a row) and perfect attendance for the previous year. This seems like an appropriate day to show our appreciation for their dedication and service.

Am I being too preachy? We have another of these award ceremonies on Monday, not-so-coincidentally on Halloween day. Perhaps another confluence of appropriate events. I have heard giggles and music coming from the place where the awards team has been practicing, so I anticipate some fun along with the serious business of the day. Maybe even breakfast; who knows?

The jobs our people do are often onerous and difficult. Anyone who can come to work every single day, rain or shine, hail or earthquake and/or can maintain a perfect safety record (they are often the same people) deserves our respect and our thanks.

Monday I think I'll wear my jack-o-lantern tee shirt.