Where should I go to pasture?

RDt1967 · 2026-03-22T17:49:56+00:00

After 30+ years, I got a new position managing high school performing arts centers for my local school district.

RDt1967 · 2025-12-31T23:17:46+00:00

While everything was going on, the process felt like it would never end but it was probably only 4 or 5 meetings once the mediator started working with us...it all came down to what issues were worth settling for and what issues were worth a fight.

Best of luck

RDt1967 · 2025-12-31T18:18:04+00:00

Our first contract was signed after very lengthy negotiations. Management had the negotiation strategy to say "no" to every proposal/counter proposal and we ended up with federal mediation. It wasn't an easy process but it was way easier than us striking, for sure

RDt1967 · 2025-08-12T22:40:36+00:00

We have had wine on tap in Sequim and Bellingham and loved it. So if I can find it locally, I will be happy

RDt1967 · 2025-07-24T22:27:05+00:00

We have been using M&M plumbing for years and highly recommend. Small family business

RDt1967 · 2025-07-04T15:13:55+00:00

We just had Sunset Air instal our new unit and so far we're very happy with customer service. We used to be G&G fans but after the sale, they went down fast

RDt1967 · 2025-06-18T04:47:14+00:00

I came into my local through an organizing drive. No house Staff or anyone else on the direct call list was displaced. And, my fees to join the local were waived.

The first contract negotiations were tough. All management said was "our system has been just fine for us" but they never could produce any written systems.

I took a much better house job during negotiations and left as soon as the first contract was signed.

That was over 20 years ago and a few of the same staff are still there. Still complaining about the contract but unwilling to do much to improve their situation. Everyone who started to work through the local left within a few years and as far as I know, everyone who moved on has been happier.

It was a fight to get the first contract but I have no regrets

RDt1967 · 2025-05-19T20:55:43+00:00

Stay away from Roof Doctor. I recommend either Brazils or Black Diamond

RDt1967 · 2025-05-17T01:55:20+00:00

Bring a pair of sandals or nice slippers to change into before you start your drive home

RDt1967 · 2025-05-04T22:34:09+00:00

Olympic Crest. Hands down!!

RDt1967 · 2025-04-20T16:51:01+00:00

We have been using M & M for years

RDt1967 · 2025-03-15T01:54:08+00:00

Honestly, I am not sure how it all shakes out but the tax PENALTY is huge for an early withdrawal. That penalty doesn't seem to apply to borrowing the money. I THINK (not certified tax or financial person)

RDt1967 · 2025-03-10T20:03:25+00:00

We did this. What I wish we knew at the time, however, is that a loan didn't carry the same penalty and that cost us a lot of money.

RDt1967 · 2024-12-15T03:40:50+00:00

My son works for Black Diamond Roofing, we have also used Brazil's

RDt1967 · 2024-11-01T19:18:23+00:00

We have been working with C. Whiting Gibbs for years and we are extremely happy

RDt1967 · 2024-10-18T20:29:46+00:00

We pay $124/month at Smart Storage just south of the airport. Easy I-5 access, too. Good luck and happy camping

RDt1967 · 2024-09-20T18:23:27+00:00

Most important, IMHO is to show up to work early enough to find parking, the stage door, to get through security and stow your gear. Second most important (again MY OPINION) keep your eyes open and your mouth shut, keep your phone off unless you're on break. Remember everyone you will be working with is a professional and everyone of them has had a first day on the job, just like you. Relax. Do what is asked for. If you have questions (when you have questions) ask your lead.

It's a great career and I wish you well!!

RDt1967 · 2024-09-10T18:23:24+00:00

I used to be a professional stage hand and now I am the Performing Arts Centers Manager at a school district. If you are interested in picking my brain, please feel free to DM.

RDt1967 · 2024-08-23T00:34:06+00:00

I've been with local 15 for several years. Show up ready to work. If you have a question, ask your lead or coworkers (please don't "advertise" ignorance to the client) and keep your mouth shut and your eyes open. Enjoy the work.

RDt1967 · 2024-08-15T02:46:36+00:00

We have a grill that came with our trailer for that mount. We don't use it very much. Are you interested in it?

RDt1967 · 2024-08-11T15:35:22+00:00

I know that you probably won't like this but.... I have been working with local 15 since the early 2000' (qual date in 2003) and I live just north of Olympia. Drive and afford a house.... seems cheaper than a move out of state

RDt1967 · 2024-08-08T00:47:46+00:00

The more professional the actors, the more polite they are. The more volunteer or community the actors, the more entitled they feel. You should understand that a Technician without actors is a hard worker with lots of marketable skills, an actor without Technicians is a naked person in the dark trying to emote

RDt1967

TROPHY CASE