quote Originally posted by Wichita: If you are interested.

Sounds like that just might be something.
PM sent.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: The only thing that worries me is the heat. Would it kill me? Besides the heat issue, San Antonio seems to kind of just feel right to me. I don't know why, though.

Boonie,
You come here, Texas will try to kill you. It's one of the reasons we love her so much. People who can't deal with it, they leave. Those who stay tend to be good people. Not soft, maybe not the best educated, or the most erudite. But for the most part, they're good people. In the cities, the dangers are less, fewer snakes, fewer scorpions, etc. But the heat's going to be there, in the summers, and in the winters, there's nothing out there to stop that cold, Canadian air but barbed wire. Little or no snow, this far south, so the snowpack insulation you may be used to doesn't work here. For the most part, we build to withstand the heat, and just deal with the occasional bad cold snap as it comes.

The heat's not fun. Especially, as Don mentioned, when it's coupled with the oppressive humidity of southeast Texas. I once saw a magazine article that referred to Houston as the world's largest outdoor sauna. Had to credit the guy, because at its worst, that's an apt description.

San Antonio's drier, but the heat's still there. If you come, don't expect paradise. This is not Nirvana.

It's Home. If you belong here, you will endure the heat, take on the cold, and enjoy all she has to offer. And if you do not belong here, well, 'tis a pity, but I wish you well wherever you end up.

quote Originally posted by Shyster: If you come, don't expect paradise. This is not Nirvana.

Oh, don't worry.
Even the word Texas sounds like the noise that rockets from your body when someone boots you squarely in the hacky sack.

[This message has been edited by Boondawg (edited 01-23-2010).]

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Oh, don't worry. Even the word Texas sounds like the noise that rockets from your body when someone boots you squarely in the hacky sack.

??(?????) Smilies aside, I was unaware that we were that offensive to you. Your pardon, sirrah!, your pardon.

I take back what I said. Go find some nice, soft spot, where life is good and you can relax, as is no doubt your due.

quote Originally posted by Shyster: ??(?????) Smilies aside, I was unaware that we were that offensive to you. Your pardon, sirrah!, your pardon. I take back what I said. Go find some nice, soft spot, where life is good and you can relax, as is no doubt your due.

Um, it's humor.
I notice you don't really seem to get that from me, though.

Maybe if I break it down.

quote Originally posted by Shyster: Boonie, You come here, Texas will try to kill you. It's one of the reasons we love her so much. People who can't deal with it, they leave. Those who stay tend to be good people. Not soft, maybe not the best educated, or the most erudite. But for the most part, they're good people.

Your post was all about how tough Texas can be on those that can't hack it.
I was creating a visual about how tough Texas is, where Texas comes up and kicks all non-hackers that do not pack the gear to be there in the hacky sack.
The last sound you make is the name of the very state that gave you the beat down.

Boy, that sure took all the wind out of what I thought was complimentary humor to your declaration of how tuff Texas was on those that don't have the constitution to man up.

I think anyone that knows me here knows I meant no disrespect.
That wouldn't exactly get me a recommendation for a job, now would it?

[This message has been edited by Boondawg (edited 01-23-2010).]

Boonie, I have to somewhat disagree with Shyster.
If I lived around Conroe, although around Lake Conroe is pretty nice, I would probably not compare Texas to Nirvana, but most of the people I know who are from the hill country would say it`s pretty close.
Like the ad says, Texas, it`s a whole `nother country.
You can cover a lot of different scenarios just within the state.
I have lived in and around Houston and for me the killer was the humidity, but here in Austin and into the hill country it`s not too bad.

Boonie, as far as heat goes, you'll get used to it. Everybody has to get acclimatized to changing seasons, even Alaskans. Once you're used to what passes for summer up there, the first couple of really cold days are tough. You just have the clothing for it. By the end of winter, you're gallivanting about in T-shirts.

Summer is the same. We're almost as hot as Texas here in NJ, and the humidity is just as bad. The first couple of transition days are brutal, but you adapt.

As a final note, if you move, you're going to have to find new suppliers of, umm, recreational items. New Jersey just passed a Medical Marijuana bill. I can see your argument: "I just moved here from Alaska! I can't take this heat! I need something to calm me down."

And we do have bowling alleyes here in NJ. I live about 8 miles due wwest of the Barnegat Lighthouse, for New Jersey, a very picturesque place. Lots of stuff to do, places to work, and Bowling Alleys.

Only downside is: you're living in New Jersey.

Pittsburgh's economy is doing pretty good. It feels like a small town (except for downtown) because it is a ton of towns put together.

Oh, and there are around 300 bowling alleys in SW PA, people are addicted to it here.

http://maps.google. com/maps...um=1&ved=0CBwQtQMwAA

Most have phone numbers listed, and make sure you page through the results. The only areas I would stay away from are in the city (around where the 3 rivers meet - mainly the hill district, hazelwood, homestead). Everyplace else is pretty nice. The further south you go, the cheaper the houses are (greene county and fayette county dont have emissions). You could probably find a decent house 45 mins south of the city for 50-60k. My house in a nice community was only 90k.

[This message has been edited by Formula (edited 01-23-2010).]

Boondawg, cliffw, and maryjane.......in the same proximity. Look out Texas. Hope you and the miss's gets something worked out. I'd say come here, but I'm afraid that there might not be anything for you. We do have two bowling alleys though.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Your post was all about how tough Texas can be on those that can't hack it. I was creating a visual about how tough Texas is, where Texas comes up and kicks all non-hackers that do not pack the gear to be there in the hacky sack. The last sound you make is the name of the very state that gave you the beat down. Boy, that sure took all the wind out of what I thought was complimentary humor to your declaration of how tuff Texas was on those that don't have the constitution to man up.

My apologies. I misunderstood your intent, and my wording in response was, accordingly, poor.
Did not catch this till now, and I apologize accordingly for the lag.

quote Originally posted by Wichita: I could have a job for you in Arkansas. You can choose where you want to live, but it has to be on the west side. Bentonville to Ft. Smith area. You could choose far eastern Oklahoma if you want. Mechanical skills and a little electrical knowledge is about what it takes. You will get a company vehicle (you can use it for personal purposes), uniforms, cell phone, tablet computer and a company credit card. Good bennies with pension. Starting pay would be around the $40k area. No time clock to punch either. If you are interested.

OFF TOPIC OFF TOPIC
1. tell me about your occupation please--you list "legislator".

2. Is your homepage broken?

Well, apparently, there are options:
Struggling NJ Bowling Alley Owner Torches Better-Run Competitor
http://www.dailyfinance.com...etitor%2F19324840%2F

Probably not worth the "years" someone is going to spend in jail though.

Ron

quote Originally posted by TXGOOD: I would probably not compare Texas to Nirvana, but most of the people I know who are from the hill country would say it`s pretty close. I have lived in and around Houston and for me the killer was the humidity, but here in Austin and into the hill country it`s not too bad.

I live in the Hill Country. (I know you know that Mike.) I would say it is closer to heaven. Nirvana is not even a place. It is more a state of mind.
I lived and worked in Houston for four years. Worked outside. Humidity was/is just another thing. One that I don't notice. I have not been in the dry heat of Arizona but I have been in the dry cold of Wyoming. People were commenting on it but I couldn't figure out why. I am in Corpus Christi a lot which is supposed to be humid but I don't notice it much either.
Boondawg, I have an appointment to meet with the manager of our local bowling alley today at 1:30PM. It, to me, has a good number of lanes but it is more than a bowling alley. I thought it was called the the Sports Palace. I think that's what hangs on the building. As I say, I do not go much have only been once but drive by a bunch.
I wish I had more vernacular (buzz words) to feel them out.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: See if they need a 25 year AMF Mechanic.

You might think bigger. Your talents and experience, I would think should qualify you as a consultant. When I talk to them, I hope to find out about the bowling business community. Gosh, I would think that you have the ability to service many different bowling companies.
Anyways, I'll have some info for you tonight. If you can get me a "cliffnotes" of the industry it would be helpful. Maybe an informative webpage that I could study over lunch.

It has been my experience in life, at working on mechanical, hydraulic. and electrical equipment in all sorts of different operations, that you could probably work in any sort of plant or operation. No matter what the place actually does, it--and all of industry, uses actuators, relays, circuits, elec motors, bushings, bearings, solenoids, valves etc. Think outside your bowling lane.

Boonie, maybe this could happen where you live.
http://www.dailyfinance.com...-competitor%2F193248 40%2F

quote Originally posted by maryjane: It has been my experience in life, at working on mechanical, hydraulic. and electrical equipment in all sorts of different operations, that you could probably work in any sort of plant or operation. No matter what the place actually does, it--and all of industry, uses actuators, relays, circuits, elec motors, bushings, bearings, solenoids, valves etc. Think outside your bowling lane.

I think you may be one of the few that gets that.
But most people don't even know that there is machines back there, let alone a person maintaining them!

Yes, what I do is done to doughnut machines as well as tampon stampers.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Yup, shipping. I would be doing better AND I would get to see a woman wearing a dress! That would ALMOST be a first for me!

Dress? We don't got no stinken dress's. Around here you can get your Spam McMuffen and watch the girls in thong bikinis, and Its the only place where no shoes or shirts doesn't always apply.

C'mon Boonie, help me out here.
Twenty-five year AMF mechanic ? I could have swore you said you did their computer stuff too. You know me and my "puter knowlege. I could make you out like dumber than I am. Can't I name drop competitor type X equipment familiar ? They sell and drill bowling balls here. You can do that right ?

quote Originally posted by cliffw: What is the name of your facility ? So I can credit your twenty-five years to that location. Was it the number one alley ? How many lanes ?

I have been the Head Mechanic at the 34 lane house, Park Lanes in Anchorage, Ak., for 25 years.
I install, maintain, repair, & service AMF 8270 Pinsetters & Surepic Ball Returns.
I install, maintain, repair, & service Anvillane Synthitic lane overlays & approches.
I install, maintain, repair, & service Twelve Strike Scoring Systems.
I install, maintain, repair, & service all Closed Curcut Cameras.
I install, maintain, repair, & service the Bowling Centers network systems & 23 computers.
I install, maintain, repair, & service the lane conditioner machine (currently a Kegel Kustodian ION Sport Edition) , as well as build, program, setdown, and tape (test) the lane conditioning & shot.
I prepare & repare the lanes for USBC Equipment Specifications and Certification.
I order parts & control inventory.
I control 4 mechanics & pinchasers working under me.
I do all the hiring & firing, as well as work scheduling for all mechs/pinchasers.
I recommend my mechs/chasers for raises & advancements as deserved.
I communicate well with Management & customers alike.

I also do most building repair & maintainece, as time allows.

I have never drilled balls or run the proshop, frontdesk, or snackbar.

[This message has been edited by Boondawg (edited 01-25-2010).]

Reply coming.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: snip

Too late. No problem. I used what little information I had, ... and made up the rest, .
I met with the manager but was not impressed. I am thinking of speaking with the owners or facility managers(that would be your title, no?). I got the bowling manager and as I said, was not impressed.
He says he does not need someone at this time. He could not understand that you were not applying for a job. He said he would start you out at $7.25 an hour since you are AMF. That was a joke. They are Brunswick. I wouldn't shine your shoes for $8.00 an hour.
I was able to get some AMF info for you though. I spoke with Carlos at AMF Country Lanes (located in San Antonio, phone # 210 496 3811). From who I found out that AMF has A,B, and C level mechanics. A being the facility manager. They were on salary with a vehicle but have gone hourly. Carlos stated $16.00 to $20.00 an hour entry. He at the particular location did not need anyone but his facility manager is in Dallas and will have to go to Waco next. To help out. There is a need. He did say that they do like to promote from within but suggested that you contact Cloyd (correct spelling) Lindsey, who is a recruiter. His number is (303) 704 1435 (located in Denver Colorado Carlos thinks). Carlos also gave me this web site. Gee, I would think that you could just transfer and keep all your benefits intact.
$16.00 to $20.00 an hour down here is good money considering the cost of living. I know you have said with sarcasm that you just let Uncle Sam reach in your pocket for your tax obligations (as do I) but you can deduct job moving expenses. Including looking for a job. Why don't you come for a visit ?

quote Originally posted by cliffw: By the way, I refuse to learn spanish.

I'll learn you some Mexican food, .

quote Originally posted by cliffw:

Thanx for the info Cliff.
Yeah, I don't work on Brunswick machines.
I'm an AMF man.
$8.00 an hour for an "A" mechanic is an insult. (not you, the "manager" you talked to.)

I know how hard it is for someone to speak for someone else.
But I really appreciate the effort!
Thanx!

When (If) Boonie moves to SATX, maybe a Fiero meet is in the works.

By the bowling alley no less.

https://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum6/HTML/071647.html

quote Originally posted by maryjane: https://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum6/HTML/071647.html

Senerio: MJ hears Boondawg is thinking about moving to San Antonio.
He digs away the earth under the retaining wall there.
The whole thing starts to collapse, leaving the land unusable & solving the possability of a future "Dawg" problem.

Medals, beer, & backslapping is seen all around!

quote Originally posted by maryjane: https://www.fiero.nl/forum/Forum6/HTML/071647.html

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Senerio: MJ hears Boondawg is thinking about moving to San Antonio. He digs away the earth under the retaining wall there. The whole thing starts to collapse, leaving the land unusable & solving the possability of a future "Dawg" problem. Medals, beer, & backslapping is seen all around!

100 for a = 1 to 1,000,000,000
200 print "Thrown Out of Bubble"
300 print "Unstable ground out in Texas"
400 next a

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: The only thing that worries me is the heat.

Yeah, but it's a dry heat...

sorry, I know it's not the time to be funny.
(you actually may not know what I'm talking about)

A job that I would like to bring up that you may have never though of.
Repairing redemption and video games in an arcade.
I know money is tight and people are not spending much on entertainment.
But hopefully that will change before the USA fails.

redemption games mostly work off of micro switches or optical switches.
simple repetitive moving parts
and basic circuit boards
What you've been dealing with at the alley.

modern video games are basically a PC with a few snap switches thrown into to mix.

I'm just trying to help broaden your job search.

good luck.

quote Originally posted by buddycraigg: I'm just trying to help broaden your job search. good luck.

There ARE no bad ideas.
Sometimes though........................

[This message has been edited by Boondawg (edited 01-26-2010).]

There are some plant machinery maintenance jobs always available near here, but I would not reccomend them. There is a reason the turnover rate is high. Poultry processing plants. yuck. Worse than working on the hydraulics of garbage trucks.

You are in Alaska--why not do the job that is the envy of every lower 48er? crab boats.

Maybe, in my best days years ago----but only maybe.

Hey Boonie, check it out...

"Arlington says new title as 'bowling capital of the world' is a good fit"
"We’re thrilled to be the bowling capital of the world," Jay Burress, president and CEO of the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, declared to more than 500 bowling dignitaries and others who celebrated the grand opening of the International Bowling Campus on Six Flags Drive.

http://www.star-telegram.co...l/story/1920976.html

LOL. Come to Texas!

quote Originally posted by cjgable: Hey Boonie, check it out... "Arlington says new title as 'bowling capital of the world' is a good fit" "We’re thrilled to be the bowling capital of the world," Jay Burress, president and CEO of the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, declared to more than 500 bowling dignitaries and others who celebrated the grand opening of the International Bowling Campus on Six Flags Drive. http://www.star-telegram.co...l/story/1920976.html LOL. Come to Texas!

Very interesting!
Thanx!