Networking Geocacher Style

8.4k · August 27, 2003

Hi All,

We geocachers are a pretty impressive group. IMHO One of the greatest subsets of humanity that I have ever encountered. Anyone who has been to an event cache can attest to this. We are, for the most part, highly intelligent, educated, gainfully employed, and family oriented. The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent.

I personally correspond regularly, by email, with over two dozen people that I have met on these forums. Triple that figure for those that I have met at event caches. This amazes me to no end. My opinion of the average "Joe Public" before geocaching caused me to limit my friends to a manageable handful. Now, I have more friends than I could possibly make time for. I have never met another geocacher in person that I didn't like, or that has even remotely tingled my spider senses.

Another thing that I have noticed (locally/Texas) is that we take care of our own. The term "Geocaching Family," is starting to get used more often.

So let's get this network started officially:

Share your stories of how other geocachers have helped you, whether in the activity itself, or beyond the call of duty.

Ask for, or give, a job tip to some of our fellow unemployed geocachers.

Help a geocacher, who's moving to your area, find suitable accommodations. ETC.

The possibilities are endless.

Ask for replies to your post by email if you're not sharing a story.

Your GeoBuddy,

Norm

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

1.2k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:

Ask for, or give, a job tip to some of our fellow unemployed geocachers.

Heck, I'll start off, we're hiring at the Harris County Sheriff's Office, in Houston, Texas, so check out the web page at http://www.co.harris.tx.us/so/recruitment.htm.

If you don't want to do police work, simply hire on as a jailer, which was the easiest job I've ever had in Law Enforcement for the year I had to do it...lol. Everyone puts in a year in the jail before you can put in to do other things.

C'mon down!!!

*EDIT* After reading DocDean's post below, thought I'd mention that some of our best officers and jailers are former *IT* people....LOL. (Although some of our actual *IT* people ought to be jailers as well, or in jail....sigh).

"Trade up, trade even, or don't trade!!!" My philosophy of life.

[This message was edited by Breaktrack on August 27, 2003 at 07:11 PM.]

2.3k · August 27, 2003

I haven't met any other geocachers in person yet. But that will soon change, I have organized a CITO event next month and hopefully will get some of the local geocachers to come out and we'll all get to know one another. We have certainly hit all of each others caches. Maybe we will even form one of those cool regional geocacher associations and get to have a cool logo or something...

I think that the networking idea is a very good one.

Unfortunately for all you out of work 'IT' people, I have no job tips other than don't give up!

As for me, I would be happy to help out anyone with any first aid or medically related questions.

Lets see what else?? I also recently trained in weapons of mass destruction and mass casualty management.

---------------------------------------------------

Free your mind and the rest will follow

38.2k · August 27, 2003

I'm a trails supervisor for a NJ state forest and also a trail maintainer. When I was appointed to the position of super, I maintained a stretch of trail in another state park. Being a super in one park AND a maintainer in another would have been a bit more than I wanted to chew, so I posted in the NE forums asking for someone willing to take over my trail. I received several responses and geocacher Mxtyptlk agreed to assume responsibility for it. Thanks Mxtyptlk!

A few weeks later, one of my maintainers quit, so again I went to these boards and geocacher, Roosteroo volunteered for the vacant section. Thanks Roo!

I now have a list of several other geocachers who are interested in maintaining trails and geocacher Harrald has worked on a at least one trail crew (the people who do the really hard work).

It's great to see the geocaching community get involved with trail work in our area and I know the hiking community appreciates their hard work.

quote:
Unfortunately for all you out of work 'IT' people, I have no job tips other than don't give up

Thanks for the encouragement! I have my first job interview (well first in nearly 24 years) tomorrow . But it's in Brooklyn .

"You can't make a man by standing a sheep on his hind legs. But by standing a flock of sheep in that position, you can make a crowd of men" - Max Beerbohm

[This message was edited by BrianSnat on August 27, 2003 at 07:18 PM.]

9.4k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
We are...gainfully employed....

Ask for, or give, a job tip to some of our fellow unemployed geocachers.

Huh?

quote:
The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent.

I'm not too sure about this, think of NudeCacher, Oregone, and Jomarac5 to name a few...

Just kidding, you brought up several good points in your post.

Took sun from sky, left world in eternal darkness

August 27, 2003

This is one of the spookier things I've experienced! I literally came to these boards with the thought of doing just this. As the site was coming up I was trying to balance whether it would be appropriate or not and came to the conclusion "why not"? (just hope it doesn't get locked)

Anyway, in the Bryan/College Station area the big employer is Texas A&M University. They have an organized job board here - http://tamujobs.tamu.edu Click on Search Postings and the position dropdown shows a list of positions that have openings.

I have a job here, but would love to find one in Austin.

24.7k · August 27, 2003

First of all I hate people. Too top it off I'm antisocial. Given a choice of meeting a geocacher on the trails or not I'd take not every time.

Then becase I worked with the wife of the guy who started idahogeocachers.org and they organized an event and she and another cacher I knew before geocaching pressured me into coming. I met some geocachers. Much to my suprise I survived. Even more amzing I wasn't scarred for life at the event and even liked the people I met.

Now other than the occasional death threat geocachers are ok.

August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Renegade Knight:
First of all I hate people. Too top it off I'm antisocial. Given a choice of meeting a geocacher on the trails or not I'd take not every time.

Then becase I worked with the wife of the guy who started idahogeocachers.org and they organized an event and she and another cacher I knew before geocaching pressured me into coming. I met some geocachers. Much to my suprise I survived. Even more amzing I wasn't scarred for life at the event and even liked the people I met.

Now other than the occasional death threat geocachers are ok.

I'm the same way, for the most part. But with nearly 3600 posts, I see you do like "socializing" here.

1.4k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Sax Man wrote:
I'm not too sure about this, think of NudeCacher, Oregone, and Jomarac5 to name a few...

Just kidding...

Hmmm...

*****

2.1k · August 27, 2003

Snoogans is on the right path. Several years ago I was considering going with the Border Patrol. There is an unofficial BP hiring website/message board that had similar features. The idea was so people could tell where they were in the process and where they were going to be stationed. It was like a family on there because when someone knew where they were going to be, others would eagerly help them out with finding a place to live, what areas to stay away from and etc.

It's a great thing to have. WE moved over 1000 miles away from our hometown back in January to snow and not knowing anyone. It would of been easier if we knew some things...

Brian

As long as you're going to think anyway, think big. -Donald Trump

8.4k · August 27, 2003

I don't think my company would mind if I post this: http://www.jobsataramco.com

Most jobs are overseas (Tax FREE!!) and pay reeeeealy well.

For domestic jobs call 1-713-432-4177. Recorded message of all jobs foriegn and domestic 24/7.

Domestic jobs are rare and the cost of living in Houston is sooo low that you will be amazed compared to the East or West coasts.

If you get an interview, you will be coming to Houston. (I think they pay, or at least subsidize. Not completely sure though.) Shoot me an email if you do get one.

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

4.8k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Share your stories of how other geocachers have helped you, whether in the activity itself, or beyond the call of duty.

Well, I posted one in this thread. Tahosa, whom I've never personally met, answered a plea from me and adopted a vacation cache (I didn't place it) that was in an area that was very personally special to me. I also got to learn some about a great cacher in the process!

[This message was edited by carleenp on August 27, 2003 at 09:35 PM.]

9.4k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Jomarac5:

quote:
Team GPSaxophone wrote:
I'm not too sure about this, think of NudeCacher, Oregone, and Jomarac5 to name a few...

Just kidding...

Hmmm...

Hmmm?

Took sun from sky, left world in eternal darkness

4.8k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Thanks for the encouragement! I have my first job interview (well first in nearly 24 years) tomorrow . But it's in Brooklyn .

Good luck at the interview! I would post Nebraska job sites, but I doubt anyone is really itching to move here (even though it has low unemployment and is actually a nice state). With that said, in the spirit of networking, if anyone wants info about Nebraska jobs or in particular about law school here, feel free to email!

4.2k · August 27, 2003

Hey, I'll give it a shot!

I'm an unemployed (due to dot.com bust) eMarketer and Account Manager for Agencies. If there are any Bay Area cachers who need to fill a spot...think fellow cachers first. Reponses via email, thanks!

I will say that Marky was very helpful to me via a couple of email exchanges when I started doing thsi a few months ago. Helped me out with some software issues. Thanks Marky!

9.5k · August 27, 2003

On a very recent hike, Moun10Bike was kind enough to share water with my dog, Snickers! when I mentioned I was getting low on water.

Currently, I'm an unemployed IT looking for work in Facilities, PBX, or IT.

Cheers!

TL

August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by TotemLake:
On a very recent hike, Moun10Bike was kind enough to share water with my dog, Snickers! when I mentioned I was getting low on water.

Currently, I'm an unemployed IT looking for work in Facilities, PBX, or IT.

Cheers!

TL

You actually ran into the fella, huh? That is probably more rare than finding one of his coins.

Washington, eh. I've been dying to see the Northwest. Perhaps I can ask you for some pointers if it come to fruition?

August 27, 2003

quote:

Thanks for the encouragement! I have my first job interview (well first in nearly 24 years) tomorrow . But it's in Brooklyn .

Hey! How you doin?

SR and dboggny.

9.5k · August 27, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by SamLowrey:

quote:
Originally posted by TotemLake:
On a very recent hike, Moun10Bike was kind enough to share water with my dog, Snickers! when I mentioned I was getting low on water.

Currently, I'm an unemployed IT looking for work in Facilities, PBX, or IT.

Cheers!

TL

You actually ran into the fella, huh? That is probably more rare than finding one of his coins.

Washington, eh. I've been dying to see the Northwest. Perhaps I can ask you for some pointers if it come to fruition?

I had the distinct pleasure to hike with Moun10Bike, Criminal, Hazard, and UWdawg on the 23rd.

Some incredible pictures were taken:

Snow Lake Overlook

Gem Cache

Come on over! If I can't point you in the right direction, someone in our association can!

Cheers!

TL

8.4k · August 27, 2003

OK T-Lake,

Now those are on my "TO DO" list. Sounds Funnnnnnnnn!!!

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

2.1k · August 28, 2003

Man those were some awesome pics...Definitely gotta go to the northwest! Been all over except there. Have lived in the southeast, southwest, texas, and now in the northeast (new england). Looks like Washington is next.

Brian

As long as you're going to think anyway, think big. -Donald Trump

August 28, 2003

This may be old and you may have already heard it, but during the job interview be sure to ask "What sort of challenges will I be facing?"

Employers seem to love the question. I've used it, several friends have used it, and ALL got the job.

Give it a shot.

August 28, 2003

I would will be willing to answer questions about Pennsylvania Law Schools or the PA Bar Exam (I seem to be getting a lot of practice with it lately). I'm a state worker and PA, like many other states, is in the middle of a fiscal crisis so there are not a lot of professional or executive opportunities right now with the state. Any private sector folks out there who need a law school trained, former military intelligence interrogator, who has forgotten most of the russian he learned while in the service, who happens to be a great guy?

8.4k · August 28, 2003

I am not at all an expert in any of these areas, but if I can help:

Security Shift Supervisor (In house/high speed)

Classroom and Firearms Instructor

Texas Security Officer Commision Instructor

Texas Concealed Handgun License Instructor

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Instructor

NRA Instructor: Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Personal Protection, Refuse to be a Victim

NRA Certified Law Enforcement Armorer

Smith and Wesson Academy Certified SW-99 Armorer

DPS Certified Civilian Fingerprint Recorder

and soon to be Verbal Judo Instructor (fingers crossed on that last one, but very familiar with the subject.)

I also speak, read, and write a little Arabic. (Not even close to fluent. Survival Arabic only.) I am very familiar with Arab culture and social graces. (15 Years with Aramco stateside.) I might be able to advise a first timer headed the Middle East; although I have never been there. I have many friends there. There is an excellent Arab forum on this site as well.

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

9.4k · August 28, 2003

Man of many hats

Took sun from sky, left world in eternal darkness

9.5k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
OK T-Lake,

Now those are on my "TO DO" list. Sounds Funnnnnnnnn!!!

Sngans

http://www.texasgeocaching.com Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

All-in-all it really was a blast. My aches and pains are almost gone. Just my two big toes are feeling it now.

Cheers!

TL

2.3k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Team GPSaxophone:
Man of many hats

Man of many GUNS

---------------------------------------------------

Free your mind and the rest will follow

2.1k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Doc-Dean:

quote:
Originally posted by Team GPSaxophone:
Man of many hats

Man of many GUNS

---------------------------------------------------

Free your mind and the rest will follow http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung/aktion/action-smiley-076.gif

But does he have any ammo?

Brian

As long as you're going to think anyway, think big. -Donald Trump

8.4k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Woodsters Outdoors:

quote:
Originally posted by Doc-Dean:

quote:
Originally posted by Team GPSaxophone:
Man of many hats

Man of many GUNS

But does he have any ammo?

AhHmmm! <My best Lee Ermy, Full Metal Jacket voice, shouting...>

This is myyy rIII-fle; this is my GUN! [and so on]

Ask Mystery Woman. She may be the next Snoogstress. <Dang, still no emoticon that licks its eyebrows.>

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

2.3k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
<Dang, still no emoticon that licks its eyebrows.>

How about this one... it's trying...

---------------------------------------------------

Free your mind and the rest will follow

8.4k · August 28, 2003

Ooooookay....Back on topic.

I mentioned this warm fuzzy on another thread.

If this isn't networking; I don't know what is. Talk about a way to win friends and influence people. A multi-cache that has a special stage for each cacher listed. We're talkin a monumental cache with over 30 stages. That's WORK. You gotta believe that the cacher who does something like this is quite special.

Yay PARKERPLUS!!!!

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

5.7k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
... The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent. ...

This is a fairly subjective statement, as I'm pretty sure a lot of people think I'm a weirdo. Maybe you weren't considering the bay area when you made that statement.

--Marky

"All of us get lost in the darkness, dreamers learn to steer with a backlit GPSr"

8.4k · August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Marky:

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
... The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent. ...

This is a fairly subjective statement, as I'm pretty sure a lot of people think I'm a weirdo. Maybe you weren't considering the bay area when you made that statement.

You're quite right about the subjectivity of my statement.

To clarify:

A "weirdo" to me is someone that alerts my spider senses that something is wrong or more than a little off center. I get paid well to notice these things. I've even been to training courses on reading people. Being a poker player also helps.

I think this paragraph from my profile would make things crystal clear:

I am also a connoisseur of the strange, bizarre, weird, and surreal. (I.E. My favorite artists are H. R. Giger, Salvidor Dali and M.C. Escher. I love movies like; Being John Malkovich, City of Lost Children, A Clockwork Orange, O' Lucky Man, Naked Lunch, & Soylent Green) This will become much clearer to you if you meet one of my Travel Bugs.

If I was reeeeally rich, or had multiple degrees, people would call ME eccentric. I aspire to someday be as "Weird" as Oregone.

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

August 28, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
... The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent. ...

I really resent that remark! I truly cherish my wierdness and to have it written off so casually is not acceptable. On top of that, I have visited the middle east many times and, on top of that too, a lot of those times was for Aramco in a sort of secondhand way, and, on top of that also, I am going to visit my kids in Houston in around two weeks. Is it still to danged hot to breath there or has it cooled down a bit yet?

Only nuts eat squirrels,

Snake

August 28, 2003

quote:
I mentioned this http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?ID=84334 on another thread.

If this isn't networking; I don't know what is. Talk about a way to win friends and influence people. A multi-cache that has a special stage for each cacher listed. We're talkin a monumental cache with over 30 stages. That's WORK. You gotta believe that the cacher who does something like this is quite special.

Yay PARKERPLUS!!!!

Good show PARKERPLUS! That is one of the nicest things I've seen. What a tremendous spirit of friendship and respect. I hope you don't mind if people use your idea to pay tribute to those in their local areas. We have a few caches in the Victoria area that have been placed in honour of other cachers. I love it. Have to admit though, I'd love to have one placed for me some day. It would kinda be like being asked to do a voice on the The Simpsons.

"You are cleared for geocaching."

8.4k · August 29, 2003

quote:
Originally posted by Bug and Snake:

quote:
Originally posted by Snoogans:
... The "Weirdo Factor" is almost nonexistent. ...

I really resent that remark! I truly cherish my wierdness and to have it written off so casually is not acceptable.

I didn't see one of these: so I'm guessing you're serious? May I direct you to the post directly above yours....

quote:
Originally posted by Bug and Snake:

and, on top of that also, I am going to visit my kids in Houston in around two weeks. Is it still to danged hot to breath there or has it cooled down a bit yet?

Umm, yea it's hot and rainy and humid. That's why I spend most of the hottest part of the summer, in the mountains, in California.

quote:
Originally posted by Bug and Snake:
Only nuts eat squirrels,

Snake

I must be a nut. I eat alllll kinds of squirrels.

Sngans

Sacred cows make the best hamburger....Mark Twain.

9.4k · August 29, 2003

with jelly donuts?

Took sun from sky, left world in eternal darkness

August 29, 2003

quote:
I really resent that remark! I truly cherish my wierdness and to have it written off so casually is not acceptable.

quote:
I didn't see one of these: so I'm guessing you're serious?

Serious? What's that?

<panic>MOTHER, why is that man using big words that I don't understand? MOM, help me PLEASE!</panic>

Only nuts eat squirrels,

Snake

8.4k · October 24, 2003

Didn't I say we take care of our own:

#1-9Key was the overwhelming 1st place winner.

Sngans

If you are not failing now and again, it's a sign you're playing it safe. - Woody Allen

1.4k · October 24, 2003

(Although some of our actual *IT* people ought to be jailers as well, or in jail....sigh).

It's good to know that law enforcement agencies around the nation all suffer the same woes

Jeff

http://www.StarsFellOnAlabama.com

http://www.NotAChance.com

If you hide it, they will come....

October 24, 2003

Anyone interested in hiring a Geocacher consultant who also has a 15 years experience in embedded systems/firmware engineering?

Email me. Looking for short term (4-6months) contract position.

Somewhere In ND

South of the hill

North of the tree

Networking Geocacher Style

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