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