Was hired-on in Sept '89 when the union workers were on strike. Trained for a month @ the MIA training center for ticketing but when we returned to our station as part-timers we were all cross-trained for the various positions: ticket counter, gate, operations, ramp/baggage/aircraft service & cleaning, etc. Positions were "re-bid" every 6 months or so, based on seniority date. I started part-time ticket counter, moved to part-time gate agent, then full-time ramp work and eventually night ramp supervisor/ops. We worked 4/10's so my workweek was Mon-Tue-Wed-Thur nights (9pm to 7am the next morning) so when I got off work Fri @ 7am I didn't go back to work til 9pm Monday night. Kwaj boy & I went somewhere nearly every weeked - I'd check flight stats to see where we could non-rev in F/C that weekend based on how many open seats were still available and how many elites were booked and eligible for upgrades. I would then "list" us as standby and only once did we not get a seat. Thus we were forever spoiled - where else could you pay $10 to fly F/C systemwide? Now we're both plats on NW so at least we have a decent shot for an upgrade on most domestic flights we take. Ahhh....the good ol' days...