Great post Keith - so nice to see someone who's worked their way up the ladders rather than bitching about their particular issue as to why they can't get on the first or second rung. Ours is a very tough industry to break into; networking and a good reputation are two of the key factors that will ensure your success. Skin color and social or cultural backgrounds have little to no impact and should not be seen as constraints or impediments on being successful.
4HP