History

This site was last updated Feb 09, 2009

Computers have been my hobby since 1978. I no longer do any programming, but still enjoy the benefits of that learning experience. I am by no means an expert, but have a solid knowledge of Microsoft Office 2003 (but prefer Open Office - an excellent replacement) & Paint Shop Pro (a graphics program).

I am also knowledgeable in the way of the Internet and small network systems (I run one at home).

I have earned the respect of my business acquaintances and have a reputation for honesty and being "UP FRONT" in all my business transactions.
The construction business is volatile and the Iron Works business is extremely hazardous to the longevity of a single employer.

I was an Iron Worker (Gishner Iron Works 1979-1984, no longer exists) (Koppers Fabricators, Inc. 1984-1987), certified welder and Bench Mechanic.
I started as Misc. Metals Detailer (drafting @ Koppers) in June 1986, after graduation from Maryland Institute of Drafting (which is no longer in business), I thank Mr. Koppers for that. All custom drafting had been on the "board”, while at Koppers.

Mr. Koppers had financial problems and had to reduce his costs. I was let go, on good terms.

I restarted my own Detailing business.

Work was done with TurboCad (which I still use occasionally) and then AutoCad (when they added the graphic interface).

I Detailed for Thrifty Iron Works 1987-1995 (owner died).

Wamo Welding 1995 (the manager and I had serious disagreements and I left).

Hallmark Iron Works Feb. 1996 – Feb. 2004 (A great Commercial Company).

My small home CAD business, had to close, because "outside" work was not allowed,
I had to leave Hallmark due to politics and travel time to and from Hallmark

(2 hours, minimum, on the road and the Wilson Bridge were too much on a good day).

I cranked up my home business again.

I Detailed for Milestone-Tarant Feb. 9, 2004 – Jan. 3, 2005.

I was fired the day I returned from Christmas vacation.

No warning, no discussion. "Sorry, that's the way it is", was the only comment.

I was shortly joined by a bunch of good people who suffered the same fate.

We all started our own businesses and doing just fine.

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I Detailed for Bethesda Iron Works Feb. 22 to Sept.23, 2005.

Nice little company, but they were having serious money flow problems.

The owner and company died in 2007 (but not in the same month).

I went SOLO. Scooter's Desk was open for business, FULL TIME.

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A unique opportunity came my way. I accepted a dual role:

March 03, 2006 to Feb. 01, 2008 Criss Brothers Iron Works, Inc.

Detailer - Shop Manager and Assistant PM from 6 AM till Noon (M-F)

I enjoyed working with the Cristaldi Brothers @ Criss Brothers Iron Works and the hard working shop guys.

BUT, trying to do two jobs, was too much. I had to make a choice.

I had to leave CBI and concentrate on Scooter's Desk.

The Little depression of Nov 2008, put hard times to ALL small businesses.

The Government stimulous "Bail Out" of Corporate America is/was a joke. Stocks still went down like a rock, due to fear.

Housing Loans almost disappeared.

Home Repossession was common place. Some of this Improved by DEC.

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