MOTM

> What does EBS mean, anyway? And why is that initial tone so 
familiar?
> 
> Mike

What does that mean?!!!  Are you KIDDING?!!!  No, wait, you're under 
40...

The EBS is the Emergency Broadcast System.  It is an electronic 
network that ties all radio and television stations together for 
emergency service broadcasts.  These broadcasts can be regionalized 
or nationwide.  The EBS was put into operation in the early 1950's 
and fully implemented shortly after.

Why?  Because of the nuclear threat and the Cold War!  As a child, I 
saw many films and filmstrips (beep!- next frame...) about how to 
protect myself when a nuclear explosion occurred in my area.  Useful 
stuff like, "lie in a ditch and cover your head", "cover yourself 
with a raincoat", "put your head down on your desk until your 
teacher says it's safe".  I only wish I were kidding, Mike.

You know, I can still remember the "Duck and Cover" song and film!  
Yeah!  There was this little turtle guy skipping down the street.  
Suddenly he sees the "bright flash" of an atomic weapon exploding on 
the corner!  Does our little friend panic?  Of course not, silly!  
He merely pulls his head, feet and tail into his shell while 
singing - "Duck, duck and cover!  When you see the flash..."  
Afterwards, he shakes the fallout dust off and goes on his way 
whistling merrily.  Naturally all of his friends would have been 
alerted by the Emergency Broadcast Network and were safely ducking 
under raincoats and the like.

Just be thankful that the familiar voice and accompanying eerie tone 
has so far been "a test".

Chub - presently hiding under his pillow...