Joe, you're right about the union stewards. By and large they were pretty straightforward and abided by the rules they had negotiated. I'd bet dealing with volunteers could be tough, as they are likely to be independent. I hope you had good experiences with firemen, who are morivated by good intentions as a rule. My hopes are with Alan as well. The labor department in each state will try and help you find work, though with the unemployment rate over 10 percent, it won't be easy, as there are roughly six applicants for every job. Have a good short resume, and interview for jobs you may not really hope to get; its good experience. Stan