Rowdog:
If you were in California, you could probably have a job by tomorrow. There is such a shortage of techs with the right attitude out here, that you would likely be a breath of fresh air. You probably already know more than a lot of guys who are employed in this industry. Almost every successful company that I know would like to hire the "right guy". I am surprised to hear of your difficulty in finding a position in the NYC area. It sounds like your head is in the right place, but you have only been only interviewed by meatheads or companies without growth. Don't be discouraged and keep looking until someone realizes that you are a good investment. I can assure you that your persistance will eventually pay off.

Stew