I used to be in telephone sales but I was forced to get out of that line of work because I was lousy at it. ``Hi, my name is Gabe. Would you like to buy a (whatever)?''

``No.''

And then I'd say something savvy like, ``I can't say that I blame you. Take care.''

I never believed in the products I pushed, but I could have made a fortune on the phone if I were selling generators. I recently 'cold' called bars and restaurants around town to see if they'd be powered by generators if a hurricane knocked out the power. Based on past experience, I know I'll be craving a warm meal and cold drink after living on bottled water and peanut butter for days.

After Hurricane Wilma, the few bars and restaurants running on generators drew desperate customers lining up out the door. You'd think more would realize getting a generator is a smart business move, but after a quick survey, looks like many watering holes haven't learned that lesson.

Here are places to keep in mind the next time we're facing a storm. They're either properly prepared with backup power or they're far enough inland that they might have a better chance of keeping the lights (and refrigerators) on -- not a guarantee, as we've learned, but worth a try.

Downtowner Saloon, 10 S. New River Dr. E., Fort Lauderdale. The bartender confirms the Downtowner still has a generator. He says their proximity to the Broward County jail -- it's across the street -- affords them priority FPL service if a storm knocks down wires. It may be the one time being close to a jail is an actual bonus.

Solo guitarists play during happy hour Monday through Friday. Bands perform Thursday and Saturday nights and a DJ spins on Wednesday and Friday.

Sign up for a free card and earn points with every dollar spent on food or alcohol here. The points can be used like money on future purchases.

Mamasita Mexican Bar & Grill, 591 N. Broadwalk, Hollywood. They've recently redecorated and upgraded their beer and wine license to a full liquor license. The authentic Mexican fare is still fantastic and so is the live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.

This nightspot is a few yards from the ocean so if doesn't get washed away by a giant swell, it will be fully operational thanks to two huge generators that could probably power a battleship.

Jimmie's Chocolates and Café, 148 N. Federal Hwy., Dania Beach. If a hurricane comes our way, the chef here will be back to work cooking by candlelight with his gas oven. I suggest a red wine with anything he whips up (it doesn't need to be refrigerated).

Ra Sushi, The Shops of Pembroke Gardens, 201 SW 145th Ter., Pembroke Pines. The chic restaurant, with a splashy decor -- check out the red granite bar -- doesn't have a generator, but it's located in southwest Broward by Interstate 75. Even a hurricane might want to avoid the traffic on Pines Boulevard.

Swig Bartini, 1744 Main St., Weston. It doesn't have a generator but Weston fared pretty well during Hurricane Wilma. Sip martinis and generate leads on Tuesday's Biz-card Exchange from 5 to 8 p.m. My card says: Gabe Berman: Columnist / Generator Sales.

COMING UP

• The Bendy Pastorius Group is playing at 9:30 p.m. Friday at Alligator Alley Native Florida Tap Room & Music Hall (1321 E. Commercial Blvd.) in Oakland Park. There's a $5 cover.

• The upscale shopping area The Walk (2700 University Dr.) in Coral Springs is offering free live music on Wednesday night. This week, it's 100 Proof, playing oldies and more modern tunes.

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