Saturday, March 26, 2005
memorable jobs... from some immemorial time long gone by...?!?
Does it make any sense that this publication titled "jobboom" is a freebie that advertises itself in the following manner: "vous avez un emploi? On a le magazine pour vous!" IN OTHER WORDS... "you have a job? We've got a rag... uh... mag for ya!". Free of charge. Cool. But then again, if you HAVE A JOB... you can pay a buck or two for the crappy magazine... logically... no?
Compare this with OTHER magazines (that shall remain nameless) which are meant to be (or profess to be) helping tools for the job seeker, the everyman that seeketh gainful employment, the unlucky one freshly arrived into the cold cruel world called "reality"... and THOSE magazines are NOT freebies?!?
If you got a break, you get more breaks - if you didn't get a break, you get broken some more...! No wonder that they invented the colloquialism "you're broke" then... hmm?
And then there is the other fallacy - that this is a "man's world"... Really? Given the choice, would anyone hire a guy... over a lady? Equal qualifications - or NOT! The lady is simply a more interesting employee to have - and not just for her lower wages! In the comments section today, you will find a top ten of "memorable jobs" recollections... All women! Almost all of them jobs that guys would simply not be as good at than grrrls can be... (yep - grrrrrls!). All the way down to the cider donut vendor - I would rather buy such a donut from a girl than a guy! My worst fast food recollections of my own involve MALE employees at fast food joints... girls are simply neater in those places! Maybe I am a traditionalist... eh? Guys can always tinker with cars in the garage - right? *LOL*
As bad as my fast food memories are (and yes - they are mostly from Saturday nights too!) - nothing comes close to Wendy's chili in California recently - the chili bowl that was served to some poor unsuspecting lady that is... I suspect a clown and a king to be co-plotters in this... and that some good ol' fella is twisting in his grave over the bad publicity poor Wendy's gonna get here... :(
Compare this with OTHER magazines (that shall remain nameless) which are meant to be (or profess to be) helping tools for the job seeker, the everyman that seeketh gainful employment, the unlucky one freshly arrived into the cold cruel world called "reality"... and THOSE magazines are NOT freebies?!?
If you got a break, you get more breaks - if you didn't get a break, you get broken some more...! No wonder that they invented the colloquialism "you're broke" then... hmm?
And then there is the other fallacy - that this is a "man's world"... Really? Given the choice, would anyone hire a guy... over a lady? Equal qualifications - or NOT! The lady is simply a more interesting employee to have - and not just for her lower wages! In the comments section today, you will find a top ten of "memorable jobs" recollections... All women! Almost all of them jobs that guys would simply not be as good at than grrrls can be... (yep - grrrrrls!). All the way down to the cider donut vendor - I would rather buy such a donut from a girl than a guy! My worst fast food recollections of my own involve MALE employees at fast food joints... girls are simply neater in those places! Maybe I am a traditionalist... eh? Guys can always tinker with cars in the garage - right? *LOL*
As bad as my fast food memories are (and yes - they are mostly from Saturday nights too!) - nothing comes close to Wendy's chili in California recently - the chili bowl that was served to some poor unsuspecting lady that is... I suspect a clown and a king to be co-plotters in this... and that some good ol' fella is twisting in his grave over the bad publicity poor Wendy's gonna get here... :(
Comments:
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Homemakers.com readers share stories of fulfilling work.
By Sarah Hatten (Homemakers)
There are those who are defined by their job; they feel that their career is a reflection of who they are. Then there are those who simply see their occupation as a necessity; it helps support their family, pay the bills and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. No matter which category you fit into, one thing's for certain: each position allows you to learn something about yourself and the world you live in. In the December/January 2005 issue of Homemakers magazine we asked you to tell us about your most memorable job. Here, 10 readers share their personal experiences and explain why they were so invaluable. (Thank you for all submissions. We regret that we cannot print them all.)
Working from home
The most meaningful job I've ever had was one where the pay was terrible, the hours long, and the tasks sometimes menial, though the responsibilities were enormous. At times, I had to do the job of two people, and never received a bonus. There were no raises or incentives, and most of the time, no one noticed how hard I worked. I'm speaking, of course, of staying home with my kids while they were growing up.
I'm very happy and grateful to have had the option to be with them on a full-time basis until they were almost finished elementary school, and nothing could possibly be more meaningful than guiding two little ones to adulthood. They are both young adults now, and I wouldn't trade the experience of raising them for all the money in the world -- though if I'd won the lottery while at home, it would have made things much easier.
--Val Tobin, Bradford, Ont.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
I have had numerous jobs over my lifetime. When I think back, each one had some special meaning and served to meet my needs at that particular time in my life. But hands down, the most meaningful job I have ever had, and will hold for the rest of my life, is one that requires I be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. The job I am referring to is being a mom to my young son. It is challenging and ever changing. To watch him grow and learn and to see the world through his eyes is more rewarding than anything I could ever do or have in my life.
--Sandra Koch, Brandon, Man.
Giving back
The most meaningful job I have ever had is two-fold -- being a daughter and a mother. My mother passed away four years ago; during the last few years of her life she became quite ill. While it is not a "job" being a daughter, it was my job to ensure she received the best care possible. Many nights were spent sneaking into the hospital after visiting hours, once my own children were tucked into bed, and slipping into to my mom's hospital room and snuggling up in her bed beside her. I'm not sure who looked forward to that time the most, me or her. My own children were able to see the importance of taking care of people, spending time with them and most importantly they were able to see and feel what love could do.
--Sherri, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.
A rewarding experience
The most meaningful job I've ever had in my career was when I was unemployed for one year. During that year while searching for employment, I began volunteering at a teen drop-in centre, and it changed my life. It took the focus off my circumstances and rather than being discouraged about being out of work, I was empowered because I could still make a difference. Being unemployed enabled me to stay at the drop-in centre late at night because I didn't need to get up early for work, and during the day while I was searching for work, I would often run into the teens and we would just talk. To this day, that is the most meaningful job I've ever had.
--Sandi Reimer, Winnipeg, Man.
Maximizing potential
My most memorable job was not a paid position but as a volunteer; I worked in a cerebral palsy clinic schoolroom. The courage of the children brought tears to my eyes and their sense of humour was amazing. The philosophy of the school was to help each individual develop to the utmost of his or her potential. One boy had very limited use of his limbs and very little speech but he had a wonderful grasp of mathematics. To respond to a question he had to nod or smile, both of which required tremendous effort. I learned that people can overcome or cope with tremendous obstacles in their lives. Their generosity in applauding each other's achievements, however small, was incredible. The two years I spent there were the highlight of my life.
--Jena Parker, Victoria, B.C.
Helping others to rebuild
The most meaningful job in my career to date would have to be my work as an addictions counsellor. Part of my training took place at The Donwood Institute in Toronto and I went on to work at Bellwood Health Services.
I loved the depth with which I worked with clients and their families. Many of my clients were in a fight for their lives because their health, relationships/marriages, jobs and spiritual foundation had eroded significantly due to their addiction(s). I admired their courage to change, their vulnerability to trust and their determination. The work demanded that I impart knowledge, hope, compassion and strong, but flexible boundaries. I learned and grew both professionally and personally from this work. I have many memorable experiences from this work.
--Kate McEwen, Toronto, Ont.
Proud to be Canadian
Almost 12 years ago, I worked for a temporary office service and had the opportunity to work for six months in the office of Canadian citizenship. This job placement was a wonderful experience and gave me the opportunity to participate in the courtroom swearing in ceremonies. It was my privilege to watch new immigrants take this final step in becoming a Canadian citizen and I will always regard this as my most rewarding job.
--Julie Seiler, Waterloo, Ont.
A young entrepreneur
Each job I've had has provided me with a learning opportunity. Whether that lesson was "oh man, I don't want to do this for the rest of my life..." or an upgrade in skills, it was a lesson well learned. However, I'd have to go with one of my very first jobs.
I was in high school and used to go to the local Farmer's Market with my parents. I decided I just wasn't earning enough with my parents so I decided to invest in a donut-making machine that a local orchard was selling. Thus began my business career. I borrowed money from my parents and used my savings and I was a 15-year-old entrepreneur. I got to the market every Saturday morning at 6:30 a.m. and fired up the machine, selling hundreds of donuts between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. I worked one day a week and made enough money to pay back my loan and fund several school trips as well as pay for my standard high school needs.
However, there came a day when I was ready to sell up. I was graduating and heading out to British Columbia and would no longer be able to run the machine. I put up a "For Sale" sign, and within a couple of weeks a bidding war going on. In the end, I sold it to the highest bidder (which much to my father's chagrin was not him) for more than I paid for it.
Ten years later I've returned to my hometown and still go to our local farmer's market to have an apple cider donut. I still get quite the kick out of the stall that still has posters up that I drew. That job taught me more about business than anything else. More importantly, it taught me the value of loving my job.
--Olga Petrik, Guelph, Ont.
Paid with love
Ever since I was a little girl all I wanted to do was be a secretary. After receiving training in this field, I enjoyed working at a helicopter company, church office and a financial office over the years. All were wonderful jobs. But it wasn't until I moved back to my small hometown in Manitoba that I understood what "loving your job" really meant.
After my youngest son was in school I was looking to get back into the work force when a notice for a nursery school teacher assistant came up. I thought this might be interesting since I enjoyed being with children. I got the job and for the next four years I got to work with three- and four-year-old children. Never before had I received such love from the people I worked with every day. The first time one of the children said "I love you" I was a bit shocked but soon I heard it often and received many hugs and gifts. Children are so accepting and open and I loved being with them. What a privilege to be a part of their first school experience. Due to health reasons I had to leave this job; it was a very sad time for me. But I'm thrilled when I still hear former students call out "Hi Mrs. Buhler!"
--Brenda Buhler, MacGregor, Man.
A lesson for life
Between my second and third years of university I found myself desperately seeking summer employment in Toronto. The personal manager of Dupont Paper Box reluctantly hired me, predicting that I'd last only a week. On the contrary, I stayed all summer and enjoyably learned valuable lessons lasting my whole life. Although the jobs were repetitive and simple, there was a wide range of latitude to reach a degree of perfection and harmony with yourself, other workers and machines. Anyone could be an expert. I left with great respect and admiration for anyone who is executing any task well, easy or hard, no matter who they are or what the reward for their labour.
--Suzi Gabany, Port Hope, Ont.
By Sarah Hatten (Homemakers)
There are those who are defined by their job; they feel that their career is a reflection of who they are. Then there are those who simply see their occupation as a necessity; it helps support their family, pay the bills and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. No matter which category you fit into, one thing's for certain: each position allows you to learn something about yourself and the world you live in. In the December/January 2005 issue of Homemakers magazine we asked you to tell us about your most memorable job. Here, 10 readers share their personal experiences and explain why they were so invaluable. (Thank you for all submissions. We regret that we cannot print them all.)
Working from home
The most meaningful job I've ever had was one where the pay was terrible, the hours long, and the tasks sometimes menial, though the responsibilities were enormous. At times, I had to do the job of two people, and never received a bonus. There were no raises or incentives, and most of the time, no one noticed how hard I worked. I'm speaking, of course, of staying home with my kids while they were growing up.
I'm very happy and grateful to have had the option to be with them on a full-time basis until they were almost finished elementary school, and nothing could possibly be more meaningful than guiding two little ones to adulthood. They are both young adults now, and I wouldn't trade the experience of raising them for all the money in the world -- though if I'd won the lottery while at home, it would have made things much easier.
--Val Tobin, Bradford, Ont.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
I have had numerous jobs over my lifetime. When I think back, each one had some special meaning and served to meet my needs at that particular time in my life. But hands down, the most meaningful job I have ever had, and will hold for the rest of my life, is one that requires I be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. The job I am referring to is being a mom to my young son. It is challenging and ever changing. To watch him grow and learn and to see the world through his eyes is more rewarding than anything I could ever do or have in my life.
--Sandra Koch, Brandon, Man.
Giving back
The most meaningful job I have ever had is two-fold -- being a daughter and a mother. My mother passed away four years ago; during the last few years of her life she became quite ill. While it is not a "job" being a daughter, it was my job to ensure she received the best care possible. Many nights were spent sneaking into the hospital after visiting hours, once my own children were tucked into bed, and slipping into to my mom's hospital room and snuggling up in her bed beside her. I'm not sure who looked forward to that time the most, me or her. My own children were able to see the importance of taking care of people, spending time with them and most importantly they were able to see and feel what love could do.
--Sherri, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.
A rewarding experience
The most meaningful job I've ever had in my career was when I was unemployed for one year. During that year while searching for employment, I began volunteering at a teen drop-in centre, and it changed my life. It took the focus off my circumstances and rather than being discouraged about being out of work, I was empowered because I could still make a difference. Being unemployed enabled me to stay at the drop-in centre late at night because I didn't need to get up early for work, and during the day while I was searching for work, I would often run into the teens and we would just talk. To this day, that is the most meaningful job I've ever had.
--Sandi Reimer, Winnipeg, Man.
Maximizing potential
My most memorable job was not a paid position but as a volunteer; I worked in a cerebral palsy clinic schoolroom. The courage of the children brought tears to my eyes and their sense of humour was amazing. The philosophy of the school was to help each individual develop to the utmost of his or her potential. One boy had very limited use of his limbs and very little speech but he had a wonderful grasp of mathematics. To respond to a question he had to nod or smile, both of which required tremendous effort. I learned that people can overcome or cope with tremendous obstacles in their lives. Their generosity in applauding each other's achievements, however small, was incredible. The two years I spent there were the highlight of my life.
--Jena Parker, Victoria, B.C.
Helping others to rebuild
The most meaningful job in my career to date would have to be my work as an addictions counsellor. Part of my training took place at The Donwood Institute in Toronto and I went on to work at Bellwood Health Services.
I loved the depth with which I worked with clients and their families. Many of my clients were in a fight for their lives because their health, relationships/marriages, jobs and spiritual foundation had eroded significantly due to their addiction(s). I admired their courage to change, their vulnerability to trust and their determination. The work demanded that I impart knowledge, hope, compassion and strong, but flexible boundaries. I learned and grew both professionally and personally from this work. I have many memorable experiences from this work.
--Kate McEwen, Toronto, Ont.
Proud to be Canadian
Almost 12 years ago, I worked for a temporary office service and had the opportunity to work for six months in the office of Canadian citizenship. This job placement was a wonderful experience and gave me the opportunity to participate in the courtroom swearing in ceremonies. It was my privilege to watch new immigrants take this final step in becoming a Canadian citizen and I will always regard this as my most rewarding job.
--Julie Seiler, Waterloo, Ont.
A young entrepreneur
Each job I've had has provided me with a learning opportunity. Whether that lesson was "oh man, I don't want to do this for the rest of my life..." or an upgrade in skills, it was a lesson well learned. However, I'd have to go with one of my very first jobs.
I was in high school and used to go to the local Farmer's Market with my parents. I decided I just wasn't earning enough with my parents so I decided to invest in a donut-making machine that a local orchard was selling. Thus began my business career. I borrowed money from my parents and used my savings and I was a 15-year-old entrepreneur. I got to the market every Saturday morning at 6:30 a.m. and fired up the machine, selling hundreds of donuts between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. I worked one day a week and made enough money to pay back my loan and fund several school trips as well as pay for my standard high school needs.
However, there came a day when I was ready to sell up. I was graduating and heading out to British Columbia and would no longer be able to run the machine. I put up a "For Sale" sign, and within a couple of weeks a bidding war going on. In the end, I sold it to the highest bidder (which much to my father's chagrin was not him) for more than I paid for it.
Ten years later I've returned to my hometown and still go to our local farmer's market to have an apple cider donut. I still get quite the kick out of the stall that still has posters up that I drew. That job taught me more about business than anything else. More importantly, it taught me the value of loving my job.
--Olga Petrik, Guelph, Ont.
Paid with love
Ever since I was a little girl all I wanted to do was be a secretary. After receiving training in this field, I enjoyed working at a helicopter company, church office and a financial office over the years. All were wonderful jobs. But it wasn't until I moved back to my small hometown in Manitoba that I understood what "loving your job" really meant.
After my youngest son was in school I was looking to get back into the work force when a notice for a nursery school teacher assistant came up. I thought this might be interesting since I enjoyed being with children. I got the job and for the next four years I got to work with three- and four-year-old children. Never before had I received such love from the people I worked with every day. The first time one of the children said "I love you" I was a bit shocked but soon I heard it often and received many hugs and gifts. Children are so accepting and open and I loved being with them. What a privilege to be a part of their first school experience. Due to health reasons I had to leave this job; it was a very sad time for me. But I'm thrilled when I still hear former students call out "Hi Mrs. Buhler!"
--Brenda Buhler, MacGregor, Man.
A lesson for life
Between my second and third years of university I found myself desperately seeking summer employment in Toronto. The personal manager of Dupont Paper Box reluctantly hired me, predicting that I'd last only a week. On the contrary, I stayed all summer and enjoyably learned valuable lessons lasting my whole life. Although the jobs were repetitive and simple, there was a wide range of latitude to reach a degree of perfection and harmony with yourself, other workers and machines. Anyone could be an expert. I left with great respect and admiration for anyone who is executing any task well, easy or hard, no matter who they are or what the reward for their labour.
--Suzi Gabany, Port Hope, Ont.
Wendy's staff fingers counted as search continues for owner of digit in chili
24/03/2005 8:46:00 PM
----------------------------
(AP) - A woman bit into a partial finger served in a bowl of chili at California a Wendy's restaurant, leading authorities to a use a fingerprint database Thursday to determine who lost the digit.
A portion of a human finger that a woman says she found while eating a bowl of chili at Wendys Restaurant. (AP Photo/Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health)
The incident occurred Tuesday night at a San Jose Wendy's restaurant and left the customer ill and distraught, said Joy Alexiou, a spokeswoman for the Santa Clara County Health Department. "She was so emotionally upset once she found out what it was," Alexiou said.
"She was vomiting."
Employees at the Wendy's store were asked to show investigators their fingers after the Tuesday night incident. All employees' digits were accounted for, officials said, adding the well-cooked finger may have come from a food-processing plant that supplies the company.
"All of our employees have ten digits," said Denny Lynch, a spokesman for Wendy's International Inc., based in Dublin, Ohio.
He said there have been no reports to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration of injuries at any supplier of chili ingredients to Wendy's.
"By law, you can't hide that sort of stuff," Lynch said.
"All of our chili suppliers report no accidents."
Investigators seized the remaining chili and closed the restaurant for a few hours late Tuesday.
Health officials said the fingertip was approximately four centimetres long. They believe it belongs to a woman because of the long, manicured nail.
Alexiou said the woman who bit into the finger, who asked officials not to identify her, is at minimal risk of contracting illnesses from the finger.
"It's an extremely low chance because the chili was cooked at a very high temperature that would have killed anything in the finger," Alexiou said.
Still, she said health officials would ask the woman's doctor to test her blood "to make sure nothing got passed to her."
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24/03/2005 8:46:00 PM
----------------------------
(AP) - A woman bit into a partial finger served in a bowl of chili at California a Wendy's restaurant, leading authorities to a use a fingerprint database Thursday to determine who lost the digit.
A portion of a human finger that a woman says she found while eating a bowl of chili at Wendys Restaurant. (AP Photo/Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health)
The incident occurred Tuesday night at a San Jose Wendy's restaurant and left the customer ill and distraught, said Joy Alexiou, a spokeswoman for the Santa Clara County Health Department. "She was so emotionally upset once she found out what it was," Alexiou said.
"She was vomiting."
Employees at the Wendy's store were asked to show investigators their fingers after the Tuesday night incident. All employees' digits were accounted for, officials said, adding the well-cooked finger may have come from a food-processing plant that supplies the company.
"All of our employees have ten digits," said Denny Lynch, a spokesman for Wendy's International Inc., based in Dublin, Ohio.
He said there have been no reports to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration of injuries at any supplier of chili ingredients to Wendy's.
"By law, you can't hide that sort of stuff," Lynch said.
"All of our chili suppliers report no accidents."
Investigators seized the remaining chili and closed the restaurant for a few hours late Tuesday.
Health officials said the fingertip was approximately four centimetres long. They believe it belongs to a woman because of the long, manicured nail.
Alexiou said the woman who bit into the finger, who asked officials not to identify her, is at minimal risk of contracting illnesses from the finger.
"It's an extremely low chance because the chili was cooked at a very high temperature that would have killed anything in the finger," Alexiou said.
Still, she said health officials would ask the woman's doctor to test her blood "to make sure nothing got passed to her."
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