Tip,
I'm weighing my options with the Palace Chase thing right now too. I've got a bud with the Phoenix Guard who pulls in about 30K a year without volunteering for everything that comes his way. Everything I've heard so far points to the 20-40K range. Have you turned in any PC paperwork? I'd be interested to hear what the typical commander's reaction is. Hate to get blackballed for the rest of my career, but if it means putting up with less bs I guess it's probably worth trying anyway. Have you applied with any units yet? I hear that it's pretty easy to get hired on as a traditional these days, but never had it confirmed. Keep us updated and good luck.
TD