Same Old Same Old

Yeah, I know. Every time I get on a roll here, something pops up. Now that the news that HotHouse is "relocating" is officially out in the open - among people I knew it was one of the worst kept secrets around - other opportunities have arisen.

On New Year's Day I wrote that this was going to be the "year of the Squeaky Wheel." I call it that because, at the time, I was unsure how much longer HotHouse would stay open. Back in January it was conceivable that the place wouldn't be open past February. It made it past that, thankfully, and just when it seemed as though a corner had been turned, the dead end came out of nowhere. It's ironic that, with all the back-and-forth between Marguerite Horberg and the board (and there's more to all that that I'd love to write about, but because I'm finishing my professional obligations to HotHouse I'll stay quiet for now), the decision to relocate was ultimately made by a property owner who wants to make fair market value on the property. I find it hard to fault anyone for that, although it comes at the expense of an institution that I hold very dear.

However, when one door closes, another opens. In my case, a few may have opened. If you check out the blogroll, you'll see that I've added Centerstage as a place where I write. I always wanted to write, it's just that I didn't always want to be paid for the privilege. Increasing my freelance writing opportunities was a goal I set for myself in the year of the Squeaky Wheel. As the news about HotHouse started to spread, some real good opportunities arose that I don't want to pass by. Good opportunities.

I'm also realizing that all those years of experience behind and running a bar are good resume points. I don't look at tending bar as a bad way to earn a living; it's actually a noble profession. When you become a bar buyer, or a beverage manager, you gain practical experience that can transfer to a career in sales, marketing, or other management opportunities.

I haven't been without a job in eight years. The last time I lost a job, I didn't know how to handle it. This time around I'm aware of my ability, potential, and options. It makes me better prepared for the hunt.