More about placating the boss when the T is late

[talonvaki.livejournal.com]

I have been late - and yelled at - more times than I care to relate because of the T. Yesterday, it was "traffic." Today, a "medical emergency." These "reasons" sound ludicrous coming from the T, and believe me, it's even more suspicious sounding when I say it.

I called MBTA complaints at 617-222-5216 and spoke to Micheal. He was quite understanding and confirmed that it was not my fault that I got to work late and it was completely beyond my control. He also told me three interesting things:

1. Porter to Downtown Crossing should only take 15-20 minutes.
   
   
2. If you have your boss call the complaint number, they will vouch for your being late.
   
   
3. If you have a fax machine and call them up, they will fax you a letter explaining the delay, which your boss can frame or put into your permanent file or staple to a TPS report, or whatever.

So...they can't get you to work on time, but at least they'll try to keep you from being fired. Yay, MBTA

Help with a Ceiling Fan

[desiringsubject.livejournal.com]

Backstory: I was raised to do all possible home repairs by myself. And I've installed a number of ceiling fans before. But, not in this rather aged house with rather aged wiring. And I've lost my nerve.

What I'm looking for: Either a person who has knowledge of older wiring and could help me get the connections correct (perhaps a person who owns one of those nifty testers to make sure your wires are correct?) Or a person who is, in fact, a qualified electrician but who will not (and this is key) make fun of me in any way. Almost my entire experience with qualified technicians is with them patting me on the metaphorical head and saying patronizing things. I am not willing to pay someone to come into my house and be mean to me. I am interested in learning about what's up there in the ceiling, and how to do this right. If someone knows, or is, a qualified electrician or simply a qualified person I am willing to pay reasonable rates, or barter, or cook for you. Leave a comment, or send me an e-mail with contact information.

Some more details on the job: We've already opened the ceiling. The wires are visible. (Yes, the power is shut off at the breaker!) There's a platform under the hole which makes very easy access for anyone over, say 5'6" and we have a step ladder and most of the tools you could want. (Except the aforementioned circuit tester. A keyhole saw wouldn't be amiss either, I think.) My guess is that for someone with slightly more knowledge and more nerve, this is a quick and easy job.

Looking for a Part-Time Job

[rainbowbride617.livejournal.com]

Hello everyone! I'm new to the Davis Square area and this live journal bit. My partner and I just moved into the area a couple of weeks ago. I work for an educational travel company in the area, but I'm looking for a part-time job nights and weekends to help supplement my income for a bit. I've got a strong background in office work and retail. Does anyone have any suggestions of places to look in the area? I'd prefer something office like, or a front desk/receptionist type of deal, but I'm open to anything. Suggestions are welcome. :)