Cigarettes, coffee cups, and exotic birds (Back-In-The-Day-Series)

Sampson and Allison

(This is my new "Back in the Day" series from the original TAMPA TAXI SHOTS. This was from January 14, 2006!)

When cab drivers are in between fares they go to what are called stands. The entire county is divided into stands for almost each neighborhood. This morning I was at the Hyde Park stand. This is located across from the Kash and Karry on Swann. Look to the east where the basketball courts are and you will probably see cabs there.

If you see United #497 that is me. Come over and say hi. I have never meet anyone who has read my blog. It would be beyond cool to do so!

The two drivers in the photo are from our international division. Allyson, one of our female drivers, is from England. Sampson, is from Ethiopia. These two are very good friends and drinking buddies.

Note the cigarettes and coffee cups. That is almost a staple among drivers. I personally do not smoke. I do, however, consume massive amounts of coffee. That comes with the job.

I did take advantage of a Grey and misty morn to walk over to a retention pond that is next to the stand and found some cool birds. They have yet to figure out there are no fish in the pond.  I think one of them is a baby Rosette Spoonbill. They are seen more in south Florida. I did see one later at the cruise ship terminal where the Royal Caribbean liner was parked. Again in a retention pond  Like I always said; you don't need airline tickets to exotic places to find interesting subjects. Damn! I stepped on a twig and they took off!