from Harlem High School Welding 3
On Tuesday, September 23, 2008 the Welding 3 Class at Harlem High School was set to continue their third day of work on their, as always, secret Pimp My Bookcart design, when all classes were cancelled because of an arson that took place in the school’s library. Eighty-four books were burned, carpet damaged, and there was smoke damage throughout. Needless to say, the welding class’s initial project was immediately scrapped. When the school was again closed on October 14, 2008 due to a second arson, they knew they had picked the right theme on their second attempt. Submission photos were taken by an Advanced Computer Art student. As the librarian, I am kept completely in the dark about the design or the progress until the unveiling at the submission deadline. Neither photos nor my description can due justice to the workmanship on the vehicle. It includes real hosing, Maltese cross logo, gauges, axes, flags, a working extension ladder, and even a Dalmatian in the basket; additionally, the two bottom panels open so that all three shelves are still accessible. All students who worked on the cart have signed the ladder and the truck is number 08. The rear of the vehicle includes a traditional “Support Our Troops” ribbon magnet. Close observation reveals a circular emblem on the back of the truck bearing our schools mascot, the Huskie, engulfed in flame with the label, Huskie Welding. Our first book display will include the library titles related to heat, arson, flame, and ash. A second round will be “hot” new books. As the final cherry on top, much to my surprise, the area fire department arrived simultaneously with the full-sized hook and ladder truck for the formal unveiling ceremony.
Second Prize
Judge comments:
Clearly, this firetruck has the best finish of all the carts submitted this year. The level of detail is simply amazing, as is the story of why it was built. Harlem High School wins a Smith System Mini 3 sloping book truck in their choice of color.
