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New to IBM Z

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Introduce yourself!

  • 1.  Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue May 19, 2020 10:03 AM

    Roll Call πŸ“’

    Let's get to know one another now that we're all spending a bit more time finding social connections online.

    What is your job role?
    Where can others follow your work?
    How long have you been working on the mainframe?

    πŸ‘‹πŸ»



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

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


  • 2.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue May 19, 2020 10:30 AM
    I'll start :
    Theresa
    Z Advocate Program Specialist
    You can follow along on twitter @ TheresaLHans where I tweet about Baseball, Dogs, and Mainframes
    I've been working on Z for the past 5 years
    ​

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed May 20, 2020 07:48 AM
    Edited by Omer Sevki Akalin Wed May 20, 2020 07:55 AM

    Hi to all,

    My name is Γ–mer Şevki AkalΔ±n. I am Mechatronics Engineer, and study Control and Automation Engineering at YΔ±ldΔ±z Technical University meantime I work in IBM. 

    What is your job role?
    -IBM Z Software Engineer, I mostly study and learn as Mainframe System Engineer

    Where can others follow your work?
    -https://www.linkedin.com/in/âmer-şevki-akalın-90306714b

    How long have you been working on the mainframe?
    -almost 9 months

    Stay safe



    ------------------------------
    Omer Sevki Akalin
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed May 20, 2020 09:09 AM
    Great to meet you!

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri September 11, 2020 02:51 PM
    Hi, all! I've served on content development teams for various IBM Z software products for the entirety of my 21-year IBM career. I'm currently on z/OSMF and loving it. If you ever have any questions about z/OS product documentation or other content, let me know! In the meantime, definitely consider checking out and bookmarking the z/OS Internet Library - it's a perfect jumping-off point to tons of useful information about z/OS.

    -Sue

    ------------------------------
    Susan Shumway
    Project Lead and Client Advocate, z/OS Content Design and Development, IBM Systems
    Email/ST: chalensk@us.ibm.com
    Twitter: @susan_shumway

    z/OS Internet Library: http://www.ibm.com/servers/resourcelink/svc00100.nsf/pages/zosInternetLibrary
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon May 10, 2021 10:13 AM
    Hello Theresa Mam,
    Like to virtually have a talk once.

    ------------------------------
    Rajat Tiwari
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 7.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu December 23, 2021 10:20 AM
    Hi, my name is Glenn Havelock and I'm currently a Systems Engineer with UNICOM Systems, Inc. / Macro 4. In my present role, I provide technical support for the company's mainframe product set, which is listed here:  https://www.unicomglobal.com/home/# 

    From the URL above, click on 'Product Catalog' and 'Macro 4',  and that's the product set I'm supporting these days.

    I've been working with mainframes since I graduated college in 1978 as a programmer, pre sales representative, and technical support representative, with most of my career spent working for software vendors. If you're curious as to my background, you will find that I'm the only 'Glenn Havelock' on LinkedIn and please feel free to connect with me there if you wish.

    Nice to meet you all virtually! Feel free to reach out, and above all, don't let anyone tell you all the mainframes are going away....they're not....)

    Wishing you all safety and good health during these uncertain times with COVID-19.

    Regards,

    Glenn


    ------------------------------
    glenn havelock
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 8.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed May 20, 2020 03:39 AM

    Hello, everyone, I am Abdelrazek from Alexandria, Egypt, have a BSc in Agricultural Sciences 2001, working as Accountants and Pharmacy Claims internal auditor. I am glad to be part of this community.

    Looking for my first job in data analyst, I am a newbie data analyst, looking for an opportunity to join an operational team in data since.

    Completion of IBM Data Science by IBM on Coursera Professional Certificate 2020 where we learn Data Science and its Methodology, we used Open Source tools for Data Science Including Python skills, and apply them and SQL to query databases for Analysis, Visualization Data finally Applied our knowledge throw course to finish Data Science Capstone

    I became interested in data analyst many years ago and, I decided to develop in this field, graduated from Udacity data foundations nanodegree 2018.

    And I've completed the MTM challenge in 2019 challenge myself in new Era

    And for now, I join Open Mainframe Project study 

    New to Z

     Feel free to contact me

    Portfolio     https://abdelrazekrizk.github.io/

    LinkedIn     https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdelrazek-rizk/

    GitHub        https://github.com/abdelrazekrizk

    Twitter        https://twitter.com/RizkAbdelrazek

    Facebook    https://www.facebook.com/abdelrazek.rizk.1

    Devpost      https://devpost.com/abdelrazekrizk

     



    ------------------------------
    Abdelrazekrizk
    Alexandria,Egypt
    abdelrazek.rizk@hotmail.com
    201004904524
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 9.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed May 20, 2020 09:10 AM
    Congrats on completing Master the Mainframe! Thanks for joining the community πŸ‘‹πŸ»

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 10.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed May 20, 2020 10:18 AM
    Mark Martin

    Currently working as the Offering Manager covering GTM for IBM's ZaaS Private Cloud portfolio which includes OpenShift on Z, Cloud Paks for Applications on Z, z/OS Cloud Broker, Blockchain on Z, Hyper Protect Virtual Servers On-Premises, Data Privacy Passports and Hyper Protect Digital Assets Platform.

    You can find me on:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-martin-cscp-136927159/
    Twitter: @mumartin686

    ​Returned to mainframe in January 2019 in my current role. My first IT job was with a hospital in their data center which utilized IBM 4381 (2 of them), MVS and CICS. Formal training prior to that role... Cobol, RPG and JCL on IBM s/34. Spent the first 10 years of my career working on IBM s/36 and AS/400 as a Programmer Analyst and Consultant. Including installing numerous instances of MAPICS on AS/400 and training clients on configuration / operations / utilization.

    ------------------------------
    Mark Martin
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 11.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu June 18, 2020 01:48 PM
    Well, here goes nothing. :) I'm Bill Phillips and I'm the new System Programmer for Salt Lake County in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. I have lots (years) of experience with open systems, primarily Windows and linux (Ubuntu and RHEL/Fedora, mostly). I have experience with DB2 LUW and some DB2 z/OS as well. I've been on the mainframe in this role for 3 months and I'm still trying to get on top of the crush of new information that is vying for my attention. 

    I find the mainframe to be satisfying in a way the open systems don't. It's funny, but the way a SysProg works is most like what I learned during my high education experience. It's a bit hard to explain, but feel free to ask and I'll try. 

    One of the most daunting parts of my new role is that I am a "team of one". I don't have a set of peers covering the different subsystems. z/OS, DFSMS, CICS, DB2, HSM, hardware, support systems, DR, it's all me. Having a place to turn to for silly questions (at least I feel silly asking them sometimes) is a big relief. It's not always best to engage tech support when you really need just a nudge. :)

    This also marks the first time in quite a while I've started a dialog in a user experience. I am looking forward to hearing from others and look forward to getting more involved.

    Thanks!

    ------------------------------
    William Phillips
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 12.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu June 18, 2020 02:09 PM
    Hi Bill!
    Thanks for joining and introducing yourself. It does sound daunting to be a team of one and I hope the New to Z community can help with that. If you have any specific questions, please reach out to me. Otherwise, welcome, enjoy poking around the community, and I hope to hear more from you!

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 13.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri June 19, 2020 06:00 AM
    Hi Bill, That's an amazing situation you've found yourself in!  You'll be glad to know that the communities pages are a great resource for Q&A.  There are a lot of eyes upon these pages that will help you be successful.
    I would encourage you to use www.redbooks.ibm.com as a resource.  Since you have so many broad areas to support, perhaps you can share what area you need the most help in and we can help point you to other resources.
    Best of Luck!!

    ------------------------------
    Phillip Allison
    ENterprise Architect
    Black Knight Inc
    Jacksonville FL
    904-854-5905
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 14.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon June 22, 2020 12:07 PM
    Thanks! I appreciate the encouragement and community here. Well, I'm wading through the "ABCs of System Programming" redbooks now as well as looking at the Coursera offerings. I think something that would be helpful is a type of roadmap of studies. Or, since everyone probably has an individual pattern of growth and learning on the platform, a quick note about what subjects you started with and a short progression of topics you learned and worked on? Or, to be less wordy (too late), what did you tackle first and why?

    Thanks again!

    ------------------------------
    William Phillips
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 15.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon June 22, 2020 04:55 PM
    Hi Bill,

    In addition to what Phillip suggested, I would also add the ibm-main google group => https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/bit.listserv.ibm-main
    It's an active forum where colleagues from all over the industry can ask technical questions, and where lots of questions that may come up have already been answered.

    Adam

    ------------------------------
    ADAM MULLENBACH
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 16.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon June 22, 2020 04:55 PM
    Hi Bill,

    You might like to checkout the ibm-main google group => https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/bit.listserv.ibm-main

    It's an active forum with people from all over the industry that you can ask questions and bounce ideas off.

    Adam

    ------------------------------
    ADAM MULLENBACH
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 17.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 02:19 PM

    To show you how small of a world this is....

    I became the DB2 DBA when Bill left and came back us the Z\OS system programmer. I have been with my currently employer for 23 years (7 years from the golden ticket of retirement pension). I started out as a COBOL\Natural programmer. Mostly doing Natural. About 15+ years ago I moved away from the mainframe and became the system admin for our financial system which used IBM WebSphere. My primary goals were to assist users with Business Objects reports and universes and assist the vendor with Upgrades. From there I went on to support other third party apps (kronos, POB, PeopleSoft) and eventually was approached to becoming a SQL Server DBA. Two years into that role the DB2 DBA position became available and I was asked to become the DB2 DBA.  So many years later here I am back on a z\OS system. 

    Like all things you slowly pickup what you remembered, but have to be reminded from time to time on things work in the black and green screen of CICS. 



    ------------------------------
    Phil Martinez
    DBA - z\OS DB2
    Salt Lake County
    Salt Lake City UT
    (385) 468 0678
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 18.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu June 25, 2020 02:18 PM
    Hi,
    My name is Ricardo but i preffer callme Richard.
    Mainframe systems programmer Networking.
    I've been working on Z last 5 years.
    Viva México ‘‘‘‘ =P

    ------------------------------
    RICARDO ROMERO CEREZO
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 19.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon July 06, 2020 09:49 AM
    Hey, everyone!
    I'm Hugo and I've been working with mainframe related technologies for the past 6 years now. I act primarily as a software developer/system integrator maintaining legacy Enterprise COBOL systems. I'm planning to get more involved with zOS internals and hopefully learn more about CICS and the ways to integrate with other platforms. Here's my linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugofredericosoares/
    Feel free to connect! I'm always up for connecting with different people and cultures!

    ------------------------------
    Hugo Soares
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 20.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon August 17, 2020 07:00 PM
    Hey @Rachel , I saw your blog and realized it would be better suited for this discussion :

    Introduction from Rachel :

    I am new in Mainframe. I am in the Adabas/IDMS department. Does anyone know what's the easiest way to learn upgrades? I haven't had any training in it at all and new to mainframe all together. Anyone know what can be the best way to learn these?

    Thank you! ​

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 21.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu August 20, 2020 03:48 PM
    Howdy everyone,

    Over the years I've done "it all" when it comes to mainframe systems.
    I started as a console operator fresh out of college, moved into applications programming, and finally into systems programming in the mid-1970's.
    I quite literally "hacked" my way into systems programming, but that's a story for another time.
    Yes, not only am I older than dirt, I remember when dirt was invented.
    I've worked in small shops, insanely large shops, and as an independent consultant.  They all have their merits, but I have to say that I like consulting the best.
    I currently have my own consulting business.
    As I said, over the years I've had my fingers in pretty much every aspect of mainframe systems at some point, but I've spent the most time working with CICS.
    I also *love* Assembler and consider it my native tongue.

    Happy to be here as an unapologetic fan of all things mainframe.

    ------------------------------
    J Robert Garrett -aka- "Bear"
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 22.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue August 18, 2020 10:06 AM

    What is your job role?

    Currently I am a senior computer information system at "Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University".
    Where can others follow your work?

    www.linkedin.com/in/razan-bin-mohini-7a0842186

    How long have you been working on the mainframe?

    Less than one month, I am new 😊



    ------------------------------
    Razan Bin Mohini
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 23.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue August 18, 2020 11:12 AM

    Hi Razan!

    Great to meet you. Thanks for joining the community!



    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 24.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue August 18, 2020 01:38 PM
    Hello,

    I am Camila Lui, have been working with Linux/UNIX for about 18 years. I had a break in my career when I moved country then started working in Identity Access Management and got introduced to MTM, as Mainframe then started to be part of my daily work.
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilalui/

    ------------------------------
    Camila Lui
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 25.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 08:42 AM
    Hi everyone, my name is Bruce Gilkes. 
    I am the IBM Lead Architect and Focal for the IBM Community Cloud hosted and in partnership with Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. 

    I have been with IBM for 21 years
    You can find me on linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-gilkes/

    Welcome to the NEW to Z Community!!!

    Everyone is invited to get access to a real enterprise LinuxONE III Server, no strings, just open community access to develop and learn using Virtual Machines and OpenShift Container Platform.
    Get started here:
    https://developer.ibm.com/components/ibm-linuxone/gettingstarted/

    ------------------------------
    Bruce Gilkes
    Architect for the LinuxONE Community Cloud
    IBM
    Baltimore MD
    9542345929
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 26.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 09:25 AM
    Prabodh Mathur
    Delivery Services Manager - Mainframe support
    You can follow me on  https://www.linkedin.com/in/prabodh-mathur-b3a62332/
    Worked on Mainframe for 7 years & the into Management since last 5 years.

    ------------------------------
    Prabodh Mathur
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 27.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 11:22 AM
    Hello All!
    Lovely to be here, and to hopefully meet new z/OS system programmers!

    My job role:  I work on z/OS system programmer activities, in IBM Poughkeepsie.  I work in the z/OS Development organization, and hopefully the stuff I work on helps to simplify and modernize the z/OS technical system management tasks (like installing, servicing, setting up new functions, ...)

    Follow my work:  I'm just about everywhere on social media (although I only use Facebook for personal reasons, and I probably won't accept a FB friend request). 
    • I have a podcast with Martin Packer called "Mainframe, Performance, Topics".  You can find it any podcast app.
    • I have a blog here: https://www.share.org/p/bl/et/blogid=12
    • I post articles on LinkedIn, where I will  accept your connection request!
    • I tweet:  @mwalle
    I've been on the mainframe a long time (which seems like a short time).  With all the new capabilities of z/OS, I find myself "New to Z" for all these items.

    ------------------------------
    Marna Walle
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 28.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 02:18 PM
    Hi, I'm Peter.  I'm a company director, consultant and software developer for the rail industry.  I've been working in IT for 20+ years, and primarily in rail for the last 8 or 9, and I started my career here by building a website called OpenTrainTimes (https://www.opentraintimes.com/), which is very popular.

    I've worked with mainframes as an end-user for about eight or nine years, and I'm fascinated by the scale and power of what many people call legacy technology.  The railway here in Great Britain uses a number of mainframe (z/OS) based systems - many of them run under CICS, but some have a CICS-based punch card emulator.

    Now that I run my own company, I'm trying to dedicate time to getting a z/PDT system up and running.  I'm really interested in Zowe and what I can contribute to it from my 20+ year career in IT.

    ------------------------------
    Peter Hicks
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 29.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 02:41 PM
    Hi Theresa and everyone!

    My name is Javier Perez and I'm Open Source Program Manager for IBM Z and LinuxONE.

    You can follow me on Linkedin javierperez or Twitter @jperezp_bos

    I recently joined IBM so my experience with mainframes is only 3 months old, but I have learned so much, I'm amazed by the IBM Z and LinuxONE capabilities around performance, security and resiliency.  My job is to promote the growing ecosystem of open source software and bring more community participation.

    - Javier



    ------------------------------
    Javier Perez
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 30.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed August 19, 2020 02:54 PM
    Hello to all of the new folks joining lately. Great to see you in the community!

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 31.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu August 20, 2020 12:21 PM
    ​Hello all!  I do DB2 and IMS on z/OS  with USS.  8 months experience.  Follow me on LinkedIn.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-brosius-24a50916b

    ------------------------------
    Jack Brosius
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 32.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri August 21, 2020 12:25 PM
    Hello everyone, my name is Walter Church and I am a Software Engineer in z/VM CP Memory Management.

    You can follow me at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walter-church-iv-1bba7447/

    I have been working on IBM Z since I graduated with my BS in Computer Engineering from NJIT in 2015.

    ------------------------------
    WALTER CHURCH
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 33.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 12:57 PM
    Thanks for joining, Walter!

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 34.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon August 24, 2020 09:54 AM
    Edited by Joseph Jabkiewicz Mon August 24, 2020 09:59 AM
    Hey everybody, my name is Joseph Jabkiewicz and I've just finished up Patterns on Friday (8/21) and am joining the Z team as a UX Designer officially today!

    You can find me online at LinkedIn . I look forward to working with, and meeting you all soon. Take care.

    ------------------------------
    Joseph Jabkiewicz
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 35.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 12:56 PM
    Nice to virtually meet you, Joseph. Congrats on finishing up Patterns and welcome to Z!

    ------------------------------
    Theresa Hans
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 36.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon August 24, 2020 09:57 AM
    Hi, 

    My name is Steen Spuur Hansen and I'm from Denmark.

    What is your job role?

    I started my career in 1980 as application programmer using PL/I and CICS macro-level programming (yes, that's 40 years ago now).
    Then I became Systems programmer specialized in DOS/VSE, VM/SP, CICS and SNA networking.
    In 1989 I became z/OS systems programmer and in 1998 I changed to Windows administration, followed by server virtualization (this was pretty easy due to my background in VM/SP.
    In 2016 I needed a change and became assembler language developer. Assembler is really the only programming language I ever used besides REXX.
    I have maintained middleware applications written in assembler and I'm probably one of the few people in this world who enjoy programming in assembler.
    I realized that z/OS has changed considerably between 1989 and 2016 and  in order to bring myself up to speed I therefore have taken the IBM master the mainframe challenge and I also followed the virtual z/OS Academy.


    Where can others follow your work?

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/steen-spuur-hansen-3909081/

    How long have you been working on the mainframe?
    1980 to 1998 plus
    2016 to 2020 making 24 years in total




    ------------------------------
    Steen Spuur Hansen
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 37.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 10:38 AM
    Hi Everyone, my name is Scott McFall
    I am a principal with ProTech Enterprise IT Training & Consulting, a long-time IBM Business Partner.
    You can find out more about me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrmcfall/
    I have been involved with the mainframe for 40 years (I was 13, my mother taught punched card Cobol at the local vocational school)

    ------------------------------
    Scott McFall
    Vice President
    ProTech
    Pittsburgh PA
    800-373-9188x113
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 38.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 11:15 AM
    Hello,

    I started my career in coding on mainframe since 2004. It has been an exiting career so far. Lost job due to downsizing. Looking forward to get an opportunity soon so that I get back to my usual mainframe life. I really liked the MTM event as it gave me access to mainframe for a bit. Felt like I was at work :)

    ------------------------------
    @tul Josh!
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 39.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 11:21 AM
    Does anyone know of a class that teaches you how to use the DB2 Admin tool for Z/os? I have taken the DB2 admin class, but it uses SPUFI and the DB2 commands in TSO.

    ------------------------------
    Phil Martinez
    DBA - z\OS DB2
    Salt Lake County
    Salt Lake City UT
    (385) 468 0678
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 40.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue September 08, 2020 02:23 PM
    Hi Phil,

    I see you attended our Db2 Admin class, I checked with our instructor Rick and he wrote back this....

    (clip)

    The DB2 Admin tool is a DB2 support tool that some companies may chose to use. There have been third party solutions for years. Tools like Platinum and BMC come to mind. You can manage your database maintenance utility jobs by either generating them out of DB2I option 8, as well as using DB2I commands or performing similar functions using DB2 Admin Tool. Either way, you are doing the same thing. DB2 Admin Tool also allows you to look at your DB2 objects (like Platinum and BMC). We talk about how to do this class. I think what Mr. Martinez wants is a comprehensive manual that covers all of the DB2 Admin Tool options. Here is a link to the Admin Tool PDF from IBM https://www.ibm.com/support/knowledgecenter/SSAUZ9_12.1.0/adbugl14.pdf

     I hope this helps,

     Rick



    ------------------------------
    Scott McFall
    Vice President
    ProTech
    Pittsburgh PA
    800-373-9188x113
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 41.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu September 24, 2020 06:00 PM

    Hello everyone.  "New to Z" can have many meanings.  I have worked with the IBM mainframe (VS1, MVS, S/390, and now z/OS) continually since 1976.  But our Z environment is changing--with new capabilities unique to Z and z/OS, and with the inclusion of many open interfaces and standards.  So, although I have more than 40 years of experience, there is much on Z that is NEW to me.

    > What is your job role?

    I'm a CICS and z/OS specialist in IBM's Washington Systems Center.  I've worked with CICS for almost all of my career, now specializing in integration/connectivity and security.  

    > Where can others follow your work?

    Well, I have a twitter account, @LeighYCompton, but I don't tweet very often.

    > How long have you been working on the mainframe?

    Yeah.  More than 40 years.  After graduate school, I started my career as a new systems programmer working for a state government agency.  I came to IBM in 1984 and for 8 years, I worked closely with nearby customers supporting networking (VTAM, NCP), CICS, and RACF.  I had the opportunity to move to the [then] IBM Dallas Systems Center in 1984 as a CICS specialist.  I can proudly claim to have hands-on experience with every release of CICS from CICS OS/VS V1.1.1 to CICS TS V5.6, with the exception of CICS OS/VS V1.7.

    ​

    ------------------------------
    Leigh Compton
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 42.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed September 30, 2020 08:57 AM

    What is your job role? I'm working in Sales but I'm also a storage specialist 
    Where can others follow your work? https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidreynoldstes/
    How long have you been working on the mainframe? I've worked with solutions around Mainframe for about 23 years but only working with mainframe and LinuxOne from a technical sales perspective for about five months 



    ------------------------------
    David Reynolds
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 43.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon January 04, 2021 04:36 AM
    Hi 

    Are there any plans to re run some of the online events from last year? I wasn't able to attend due to workload but would be interested in 2021 as I want to expand my Z/LinuxOne knowledge this year



    ------------------------------
    David Reynolds
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 44.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon January 11, 2021 10:22 AM
    Hello David,
    I can't speak for all events, but a number of them will occur again in 2021. For the z/VM and Linux related ones, you can follow https://www.vm.ibm.com/events/ for a list of related events. We update them as they we are made aware of them. The Z Customer Council calendar is another good resource https://ibm-zcouncil.com/events-calendar/.

    ------------------------------
    Bill Bitner
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 45.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue December 22, 2020 12:43 PM

    [Let's try this again]  I'm a Content Developer (up-to-date title for "tech writer") for several z/OS products, including Db2 Recovery Expert. Although I've been working with z/OS for almost four years, there's always a lot more to learn, as others have noted. When I'm not writing documentation, I'm a bogey golfer and scratch bowler.



    ------------------------------
    John Kafalas
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 46.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue December 22, 2020 01:01 PM

    I'm a capacity planning and performance analyst for Brazilian Government IT. I'm working by 14 years, at least 8 on mainframe, focused on Websphere, zVM and Linux on Z. When not working with that, I'm a cosplayer and RPG player and podcaster



    ------------------------------
    FΓ‘bio Emilio Costa
    Performance Analyst
    SERPRO
    Sao Paulo
    +551121731676
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 47.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue December 22, 2020 06:34 PM

    Hi John,

    Do you write material for the knowledge center?



    ------------------------------
    J Robert Garrett
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 48.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed December 23, 2020 07:46 AM
    Edited by John Kafalas Wed December 23, 2020 07:48 AM

    Hi, Robert - yes, I do write (well, mostly update and maintain, but occasionally I write something new) content that's in the Knowledge Center, for several products:

    • Db2 Recovery Expert for z/OS
    • Db2 Recovery Expert for LUW
    • SQL Performance Analyzer
    • Db2 Table Editor
    • IBM Z Service Management Explorer
    • OMEGAMON for Messaging

    Which is another way of saying that if you have questions/suggestions/brickbats on any of the above, please let me know!



    ------------------------------
    John Kafalas
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 49.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed December 23, 2020 08:03 AM

    Hi John,

    I'd welcome the opportunity to engage in discussion with you about the KC and documentation in general.   For years I've wished for such an opportunity, to connect with someone who's in a position such as yours. 

    Would you prefer to do that here? Privately? 

    Cheers,

    Robert



    ------------------------------
    J Robert Garrett
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 50.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed December 23, 2020 08:18 AM

    Hi, Robert - best to send me a DM, so we don't hijack this introductions thread!



    ------------------------------
    John Kafalas
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 51.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed December 23, 2020 12:03 PM

    Hi Robert, I also write content for the Knowledge Center (see my post above). I'm actually moving to another position in the new year, but I'd be happy to put you in touch with one of my current teammates if you want to also chat about the z/OS (or z/VM, or z hardware/firmware) library experience. DM me if so!



    ------------------------------
    Susan Shumway
    Project Lead and Client Advocate, z/OS Content Design and Development, IBM Systems
    Email: chalensk@us.ibm.com
    Twitter: @susan_shumway

    z/OS Internet Library: http://www.ibm.com/servers/resourcelink/svc00100.nsf/pages/zosInternetLibrary
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 52.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon December 28, 2020 01:14 PM

    Hi. im Bongani Mokotsi

    I'm a java developer.

    but currently I'm working as an IT Technician.



    ------------------------------
    Bongani Mokotsi
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 53.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon January 11, 2021 10:26 AM
    Hello I am visrut.
    I am currently student in 2nd year of computer science , I am exploring new fields .
    I also have interest in how computer works at low level and what is going on under the hood.

    I am currently attempting master the mainframe but stuck in level 2 where can i ask about that ?

    ------------------------------
    Visrut Navadiya
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 54.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue January 12, 2021 08:50 AM
    Hi there.  Please visit ibm.biz/mtm_slack to post your questions.  This is the best way to get your questions in front of the right techies.  Thanks!

    ------------------------------
    Matthew Cousens
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 55.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon January 11, 2021 05:20 PM

    Hi! I'm Michael.

    I just completed the MtM 2020 challenges and I'm excited to learn more about mainframes, also looking for great opportunities along the way.

    You can find me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-almeida-da-franca-monteiro-822400143/



    ------------------------------
    Michael Almeida da Franca Monteiro
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 56.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon March 08, 2021 01:14 PM
    Nice to meet you,  Michael.

    ------------------------------
    MD Zahidul islam
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 57.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon March 01, 2021 07:55 AM
    Hi, I'm Ludmila Salimena from the IBM Z Ecosystem Team, based in Brazil. 
    I've been working with universities and client skills in LA for 10 years now.

    I'm not a Twitter person but you can find me on LinkedIn: /in/ludmilasalimena ;-) 



    ------------------------------
    Ludmila Salimena
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 58.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon March 01, 2021 08:37 AM
    Hello Everyone.

    I'm Fabio Costa. I'm a system analyst, capacity planner for Brazilian government IT business at SERPRO. I've been working on mainframe at least for 12 years, focused on Java/Websphere, zVM and Linux on z.

    You can find me on Facebook and LinkedIn

    ------------------------------
    FΓ‘bio Emilio Costa
    Performance Analyst
    SERPRO
    Sao Paulo
    +551121731676
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 59.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon March 01, 2021 09:24 AM
    Hello Everyone,
    My name is Phil Allison, I am an Enterprise Architect for Black Knight Inc.  I've been working with mainframes just shy of 38 years.  I started as a COBOL/ASM Programmer and later moved on to Systems Programming and over the past 6 years onto Architecture.
    Over the past few years, most of my work relates to technologies which reduce risk, increase resiliency, modernization and automation.  I also spend a portion of my time helping to educate employees on the Z platform with a new program called Mainframe Days.  In this series I've covered multiple topics such processors, disk & virtual tape storage, Parallel Sysplex, GDPS & Replication.
    Externally I've also presented at various IBM and RedHat conferences on topics such as Pervasive Encryption and getting started with Ansible automation for z/OS.

    In 02020 I became an IBM Champion and which was renewed this year in 2021.

    I do not spend much time on Twitter but can often be found on LinkedIn.

    ------------------------------
    Phillip Allison
    ENterprise Architect
    Black Knight Inc
    Jacksonville FL
    904-854-5905
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 60.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue March 02, 2021 03:41 PM
    Hello everyone, 
    My name is Pierre ZAMBLE, I come from Cote d'Ivoire (West Arica). I am a Geophysicist Technician.
    I am taking course on Coursera about IBM Data Science Certificate. I am new on the field. And I hope i will find assistance for my integration. 
    You can join me on : 
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierre-zamble-b80966201/
    Website: https://pierrezamble01.wixsite.com/website

    ------------------------------
    TIE PIERRE ZAMBLE
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 61.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed March 03, 2021 09:43 AM
    Hey Everyone!

    To introduce myself shortly.

    LinkedIn:
    www.linkedin.com/in/    smangaliso-ntuli-a29a70196

    Website: https://careerday.belgiumcampus.ac.za/sites/s575884/MyCV/Index.html

    ------------------------------
    Smangaliso Ntuli
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 62.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed March 31, 2021 04:09 PM
    Hello Newbies,

    I am Marc Smith. I'm not new to Z, in fact I worked for IBM for 33 years of which 29 were on/around the mainframe. I currently consult on mainframe education with ProTech Training of which I see our VP Scott McFall is part of this group.  My career with the mainframe started when I was asked to write the debug guide for the VM/ESA release 1 product, followed by product planning for the VM/HPO product, running several ESP (Early Support Programs) for VM, and then product marketing for VM, VSE, and the Z hardware including channel enablment, working with IBM Business Partners who resell the hardware and software. 

    I have been named an IBM Champion for Z for the last three years, and have justified my appointment by both evangelizing the mainframe to high school and college students, and as a volunteer on the VM Workshop planning committee. I plan to post more info on both of these items on this group. Please watch for them and let me know if you have questions  regarding the things I do!

    ------------------------------
    Marc Smith
    Mainframe Education Consultant
    ProTech Training Corp.
    Austin
    5122468712
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 63.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu April 01, 2021 05:25 AM

    Hi Marc

     

    Would be very happy to hear more about the evangelising as that is something I would like to do and maybe build skills and knowledge as I go

     

    Regards

    David 




    Original Message


  • 64.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri April 02, 2021 09:56 AM
    Hi, Good morning from Virginia.
    I am happy to join the group. Looking forward to a wonderful Z and Linux experience!

    ------------------------------
    Larry Pimentel
    Sr IT Specialist
    IBM
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 65.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon April 05, 2021 10:27 AM
    Hi David,

    Happy to share my story.  Here are a couple of articles that explain what I have been doing and seeing.  If you would like to review my presentation I can send it to you and we can walk through it together.

    https://mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?i=657478&p=16


    https://techchannel.com/Enterprise/01/2020/new-talent-mainframe

    Have a great  day!

    Marc

    ------------------------------
    Marc Smith
    Mainframe Education Consultant
    ProTech Training Corp.
    Austin
    5122468712
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 66.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon April 05, 2021 08:52 AM
    Hi Marc

    I am a Senior Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg-South Africa and an IBM Z champion (2021). Last year I was involved in spreading the knowledge around IBM Z and the mainframe at the University. Perhaps we can partner to run some online workshops/webinars on the mainframe for students at my University (University of Johannesburg)?

    Regards
    Patrick

    ------------------------------
    Patrick Ndayizigamiye
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 67.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri April 02, 2021 12:02 PM
    Hi,

    I'm Volker Birk,  head of development of pretty Easy privacy. I'm programming since 1982 and doing software architecture since 1993.

    We port a list of software to z/OS and make all our products available there, so messages sent from COBOL, PL/I and Assembler can be end-to-end protected for implementing Zero Trust Architecture.

    Actually, we port an OpenPGP implementation to the mainframe, which is based on z/OS Encryption Facility but not on Java, so it's easier to use from compiled languages. We publish our work here: https://gitea.pEp.foundation  https://pEp-security.lu/gitlab/

    I'm still comparable new to the mainframe. It's two years now. Loving the community idea, looking forward to learn.

    Yours,
    VB.

    ------------------------------
    Volker Birk
    p≑p project
    https://pEp.software
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 68.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon April 05, 2021 08:53 AM
    Hi

    I am Patrick Ndayizigamiye, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa and an IBM 2021 champion. Besides my busy schedule as a lecturer, I do supervise Masters and PhD research projects. I also do research in ICT4D.  Throughout 2020, I have been an advocate for IBM Z mainframe and I was one of the judges for the Master the frame competition for level 3. You can follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-ndayizigamiye-703aaa95/ 

    ------------------------------
    Patrick Ndayizigamiye
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 69.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue April 06, 2021 04:31 PM
    I am new to Z. I started programming BASIC on an Altair 8800 in 1977. My first job as a programmer was writing OS/2 and AIX device drivers and communications software for IBM ARTIC adapters. After that I ran an ISP, mostly using FreeBSD and Linux. I participated in MTM 2020 and found the IBM mainframe environment fascinating. My programming experience is with C, C++, Perl, and PHP. I'd like to work with COBOL in the mainframe environment.

    ------------------------------
    Patrick Linstruth
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 70.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu May 06, 2021 08:34 AM
    Hallo,
             my name is Sebastian, English but based in Germany. I've been around mainframes since I left school and started as an operator on a 370/168 with OS/VS1 and have pretty much worked on most mainframe hardware systems up to the current z15 and LinuxONE since then. Not only have I been lucky enough to work with the mainstream OS'es such as z/OS, z/VM and z/VSE but also the not so common ones such as TPF and AIX/370! Also worked a fair bit on Linux for z going back to the original Marist distributions and now the latest ones from the big 3 (and I've also worked with such exotic software as Lotus 1-2-3 and WordPerfect on VM/ESA which shows that the mainframe was doing desktop a long time ago!) Although I'm primarily a consultant or external contractor (3 stints in BΓΆblingen to date) my current position is that of supporting zPDT and ZD&T for ITC (Information Technology Company). I design the hardware, the underlying Linux OS and then everything else to do with it including the z systems installed on it so very busy dealing with various aspects of this great product. I was also one of the original co-authors of the Redbook before it was called zPDT so have seen this product also grow into what it is today.

    One thing I'm enjoying is seeing more and more younger people get interested in the mainframe which is something we tried to introduce quite a few years ago but never really took off but it looks like where we failed, others are succeeding, well done. 

    Great to be here,

    Sebastian.

    LinkedIn Profile
    XING Profile

    ------------------------------
    Sebastian Welton
    welton.de
    Darmstadt
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 71.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon May 10, 2021 10:12 AM
    Hello Everyone 
    Hope you all will be safe from Covid 19
    It brings me immense pleasure to join the IBM community 
    Myself Rajat Tiwari, a student of Electronics and Communication Engineering. I want to explore more and more and want to interact with such amazing professionals. I am very pleased to be a part of IBM Z and LinuxONE Community. Love to be mentored and meet new people.
    Thank You so much.

    ------------------------------
    Rajat Tiwari
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 72.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Mon July 26, 2021 12:50 PM
    Toju Mikie

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/toju-mikie-87ba96101/

    I don't really know anything about mainframe and just wanted to know what it is and how it is used, so I'm going through the Master the Mainframe challenge.

    ------------------------------
    Toritseju Mikie
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 73.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue January 04, 2022 04:04 AM
    Hi everybody!

    My name is Lynda and my role is marketing manager at software developer Macro 4.  

    You can follow me at LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynda-kershaw-40874914/

    I worked on the mainframe in my first job, as an analyst programmer some thirty years ago (I can't quite believe it was so long ago!). Back then I was programming in COBOL and something called TELON, a COBOL code generator. Since that time I have worked in commercial rather than technical roles across many different technologies but I have never forgotten my mainframe roots. I have joined this group to learn more about the modern IBM Z platform and to contribute to the community.

    I would love to connect!

    ------------------------------
    Lynda Kershaw
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 74.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Tue January 04, 2022 06:41 PM
    Welcome Lynda.   CA-TELON....we're still teaching it believe it or not! :)

    Scott Redmond McFall
    VP, Business Development & Strategy
    ProTech Enterprise IT Training & Consulting
    800-373-9188x113 (o) 412-445-8070 (c)

    Courses/schedules @ www.protechtraining.com






    Original Message


  • 75.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed January 05, 2022 05:43 AM
    Thanks for the welcome, Scott.

    I had no idea TELON was still going strong!

    ------------------------------
    Lynda Kershaw
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 76.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Wed April 09, 2025 09:28 AM

    Hi Everyone!  

    I'm a new (very new) Mainframe Administrator.  1yr in and always learning and growing.

    Mo



    ------------------------------
    Mo Ferrante
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 77.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu April 10, 2025 08:48 PM

    Role Call!

    Job Role: Retired/ Resurrected Technology Advocate/ 2025 IBM Champion!

    Mainframer since: 1968 -In Chicago Public Schools, Punch carded my first program  (not called 'code' then because it was Data Processing.. ) Fortran66 (great great grandparent to C).  Early post college data processing was my hidden skillset, until Aetna Life & Casualty University's IBM Programmer curriculum + University of Hartford COBOL + Polytech rejuvenated my interest.  Thus, my brain went deep dive mainframe - IBM: ISPF, TSO, VSAM, JCL, CICS, REXX, RAMIS, KnowledgeWare, and more to name a few. Lots of methodologies trying to balance technology and customer service models. In the 1980's (yes we are just at he 1980s), emulators were sending data to the mainframes.  The environment was a combination of screens, telephones, printers and lot and lots of green stripe paper.... (some I still have in the basement).

    A couple of summers ago, I mentored tech genius Ashis N. (not authorized to use his full name - smile). We worked on IBM Z... many times he was ahead of me in the coursework.... I caught up when we got to JCL problem solving! Then he took off.. again! At the end of the summer, I was amazed by his second attempt final project submission.  IBM Z totally leveled up the comprehension equivalency of 40+ years hands-on mainframe experiences to IBM Z Xplore learning modules.  Even IBM MQ, I formerly, instructed in the early 2000s.  The concepts were a challenge to explain!  Fast forward to today... money transfers are easier to understand and execute than making apple pies! 

    Today, I am attracted to Quantum Physics! Moving on from 0 and 1 is intriguing and energizing, a total life learner 15 certifications in 2024.

    I am a 'late bloomer - baby boomer': Started running marathons at 40 years and daily indoor cyclist in my 70s just scored 5000+ rides! Training with former cyclist Olympian!



    ------------------------------
    Lezlie Browder
    Chief Solutions Architect
    Eugene Alexander Research & Results
    Chicago
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 78.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu April 10, 2025 09:55 AM

    Hi Theresa,

    My name is Rogerio, and I am a beginner in Mainframe.

    Yesterday, I completed all the Badges from IBM Z Day 2025.

    I would like to build a network to improve my skills.



    ------------------------------
    Rogerio Alexandre Braga
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 79.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu April 10, 2025 03:02 PM

    Hello. My name is Rogerio.
    I am a beginner in Mainframe and would really like to create a network to support people new to Mainframe.
    My LinkedIn is:
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerio-alexandre-braga-jl/



    ------------------------------
    Rogerio Alexandre Braga
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 80.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Fri April 11, 2025 04:59 AM

    Hi Rogerio!

     

    Welcome to the Z network!

     

    May I suggest you subscribe to The Mainframe Society and Planet Mainframe to begin with. Great groups with great people working behind them

     

    Regards,

    Marcus Davage CEng CITP MBCS

    Lead Product Developer
    Intelligent Z Optimization and Transformation
    BMC Software Ltd
    Direct +44 118 921 8517
    Mobile +44 7840 023 560
    Email marcus_davage@bmc.com

    MarcusDavage@bmcsoftware.onmicrosoft.com/bookings/">Book time to meet with me

    My Digital Pin IBM Champion 2025 badge image. Experience. Advanced level. Issued by IBM

     




    Original Message


  • 81.  RE: Introduce yourself!

    Posted Thu April 10, 2025 03:40 PM

    Howdy,

    My name is Robert Garrett.  I've been a mainframe guy for what, going on 50+ years at this point?  I started as an operator in 1974 while still attending university at what was then West Texas State University, now West Texas A&M since the school was annexed into the Texas A&M system.   I've been in a system programmer role since 1976.  I now have my own independent consulting company now and am still actively working, having "retired" (haha) from my last real job in December 2017.   I've worked on everything from 370/145 up through and including z16, DOS/VS ("good old" R34, not VSE), OS/VS1, VM, MVS/370, MVS/SP, MVS/XA, MVS/ESA, now z/OS.  I've pretty much "done it all" on every system and subsystem across all those platforms.  I've continuously worked with CICS ever since 1.1.2 (two releases prior to the "new fangled" command level API) and am still involved, now as a business partner/beta tester for new but yet unreleased CICS/TS versions.  I've done mainframe networking ever since VTAM II was free and bundled with the operating system (and have the scars to prove it).  I also have been providing pro-bono system programmer support for my alma mater, WT A&M, for several years and mentoring the professors who teach mainframe-centric classes there.   I write in Assembler, REXX, COBOL, and quite a few other languages.  REXX is my favorite for getting something done quickly, but for the heavy-lifting nothing beats Assembler.    What am I passionate about?  Supporting the mainframe and the software that runs on it in all its various forms,  combating the erroneous ideas about it "going away" or is somehow inferior just because of how long the technology been around.   (In a age where a year-old smart phone is considered to be a relic, how does a technology even begin to survive to be 60 years old?  You don't accomplish that by "getting it wrong.")   I'm also passionate about teaching, something I do almost daily on my current contract with people who aren't necessarily mainframe-savvy.   

    Fun fact?  Favorite hobby(s)?  I feel really fortunate to have enjoyed as much as I do the same work that has paid my bills and fed my family for as long as it has.   It's like getting paid to go play.  I wondered for years why I so much loved going to CICS conferences in Hursley UK and just being in that area of England.  Then after much wifely prodding got me to do one of those DNA tests, I found out that this 100% intensely proud to be a Texan turns out to be 75% British.  Go figure.  Hobbies: besides computers and software they extend to all kinds of mechanical, working with my hands endeavors including those surrounding a 1969 Pontiac GTO that I've had since my college days and have done all the work restoring it myself, woodworking, metal working, welding,  managing my home/business network which, from the way I treat it any time there's a problem, you'd think I was hosting nuclear launch codes on it, aviation, racing, and on and on. 



    ------------------------------
    J Robert Garrett
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


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