Archive for the ‘Career Hunt’ Category

Being Productive

Monday, February 8th, 2010

Since April of last year I haven’t worked more than 24 hours in a week.  While over the summer I was plenty busy with home remodeling projects and going to school full-time, I didn’t feel like a productive member of society.

While I’m not technically working full time, I am doing what I can, at 36 hours it’s not as bad as only 24.  I’ve discovered some things about myself that I find interesting.

I’m more productive.  I tend to try to accomplish more tasks and goals opposed to when I had more time, it seems strange but also interesting.

I have better self esteem.  While I am tired, both mentally and physically, I feel better about myself which helps my motivation for things above.

I am lucky in the fact that both of my positions allow for me to work on my homework while there.  I guess it’s an advantage of working in the world of academia.  I try to take advantage of this resource as much as possible.

I was thrown into the world of “work” at an early age, 14.  That’s when I got my first job cleaning tables and doing dishes at Gresham Dining Hall at IU.  I enjoyed the work, but didn’t enjoy the atmosphere.  Boys can be just as bad as girls at that age.

I guess age and maturity have changed my outlook since then.  I want to work, it’s just been impossible to find a job.  I hope that with time and with my blossoming skills, I will be able to find a position that pays me what I’m worth.

Ouch!

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010

Today we were able to receive our 2009 W-2 statement online and I must say it was quite a shocker.  My income has significantly went down since I left Baxter, but I think this is a new low.  I’m not going to publicly state how much, but lets just say it’s under 10 grand by a significant amount.

There were many issues that contributed to this.  I’m going to outline them for documentation should I need a reference.

  • CSR – They didn’t schedule me to work since April of 2009.  Last week I resigned that position.
  • School – I decided to take off over the summer and focus on my studies and remodeling of our home.  Mainly due to the fact that I could not attain summer employment, or any employment for that matter.
  • Unemployment – While off for the summer I applied for unemployment, received it – now they want it back!

I have been in a war of words with our state unemployment system.  Technically employees of state funded educational institutions cannot receive unemployment during “an established break period.”  We all know that summer is an established break period.  However, this is only the case when there is “reasonable assurance” that the applicant will be returning to their position after that break.  This was not the case here.

Since I have two positions, it can become muddy water from there.  I was “assured” by both of my supervisors that I would indeed return.  This only happened with one of them.  With the job market virtually non existent, it has taken me this long to find another position.

I was paid around $1,000 in unemployment in a 4 week period.  Of that money, I only received around half of that due to taxes, child support, etc.  It then stopped, with potentially libelous statements to follow.  The DWD actually stated that it was “the claimant’s fault.”  It was my fault that I received benefits?  Isn’t it the DWD’s job to ensure I’m applicable to receive them before they are paid?  I appealed the findings, hoping to receive a hearing with an administrative judge.  I received a letter that my appeal had been received, but still no hearing.  I’m now receiving statements on a semi-regular basis demanding I pay this back or “severe civil and or criminal findings may be placed against me.”  I say bring it!  I deserve due process.

When I received the first notice, I responded quickly inquiring about why I never received a hearing.  I Highlighted incorrect data that was entered by the DWD, not myself.  I then asked to receive my hearing, but am still only receiving the mentioned notices.  I have evidence that I believe shows my case – if I ever get a chance to show it.

I just wish this nightmare would come to an end.  Seriously.

Spring Semester 2010

Friday, January 15th, 2010

It’s a new year and a new decade (for those who believe).

I’m still taking classes at Ivy Tech and this semester will make me or break me.  I’m taking MATH-111, Intermediate Algebra and CINS-102, Information Systems Fundamentals.

I took the math course years ago, and failed miserably.  I don’t know why exactly, but I do know that I have much more desire and drive to succeed than I did back then.  My instructor seems like a really nice guy who is good at explaining concepts and ensuring everyone understands.  Something lacking in instructors at that school.

My CINS course seems to be another story however.  While I believe the content of the course shouldn’t be too hard, the instructor’s attitude clashes with me in a big way.  I won’t go into specifics, but I would change courses if I could.  This course focuses on XHTML, HTML and CSS.  The main focus of this class is to create a web site and to learn how to manage it on a Unix server.  Ivy Tech has one for student use, it’s name is Bob.

Little Amelia is growing and changing like never before.  At her last checkup, Dr. Laughlin said this would be a period of “social explosion.”  Boy was he right.  She loves using her voice, and discovering what new sounds she can make.  She also likes to support her own weight by “standing” with support from someone.

She has also learned how to grasp and hold objects.  Her rattle and yellow duck are her favorites at this point.  She tracks objects with her eyes, which are beautifully deep.

Rachel has been on maternity leave since the birth of our daughter.  However, all good things must come to an end.  She went back to work on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.  Next week she goes back full time.  I’ve noticed it’s difficult on her, but it’s good for her to have time away and get a greater appreciation of our little miracle.  We found a stay at home mom who will be watching Amelia.  She has a 4 year old daughter, named Madison who adores Snow White.

Today I officially sent in my resignation to the CSR or what I would like to call “the window to hell.”  I wasn’t scheduled at all for last semester, which was really hard on our checkbook.  I looked and looked and in the end a co-worker at TS, Kasey became the connection to my new 2nd job, TCC or Technology Center Consulting.  It is a division of UITS which is Indiana University’s information technology department.  TCC’s primary objective is to staff the numerous computing labs around campus.  We also help students in the dorms with networking issues.  I have worked one week with them and it’s been interesting to say the least!

Must Find Happy Place

Thursday, February 19th, 2009

Nothing seems to be going right lately.  The things that normally bring joy to my life have disappeared or are disappearing.  It’s hard to wake up in the morning when you don’t have a lot to look forward to.  The only thing I have currently that brings some potential light at the end of the tunnel are my classes.

Education is sought after more than skills at this point.  At least in my experience.  I learned this the hard way and it’s really doing a number on me.  There was an opening at my job in Technology Services at the Kelley School of Business.  It’s almost exactly what I do, with a few other added responsibilities.  I’ve been here just one month shy of a year now and I thought I would be a good fit.  The only caveat, they wanted someone with at least an associates degree which I do not have.

They must have thought I was a good fit as well, because I almost immediately was asked for an interview.  It went extremely well.  I thought it was only a matter of time before the job would be offered to me.  Then my boss’s boss wanted to speak with me, it was regarding the position.  They offered it to someone who had “more rounded experience.”  They said she “can give a different perspective that nobody else in the department can.”  While I understand they have to do what’s best for the department and not myself, it didn’t hit me until today – the day she started.

There is really nothing I can do to make myself happy but continue my education and hope to find something someday.  The only real issue bugging me is that I know that day won’t come soon enough.

This on top of all of the other issues I’m facing.  I need a new computer & printer, I am on a deadline for remodeling the basement and old “office.”  I need to start planning a summer job or load up on classes for the summer semester and get a large student loan to cover the lack of income.

I feel like I haven’t moved forward at all, but just taken a few dozen steps back since I started on my own back in 1999.

My only solace at this point is my love affair with ROX and computers in general.  The computer doesn’t care about how much money I make or any of the other human conditions.

If only life were this simple.

Cha Cha Cha Changes

Friday, September 19th, 2008

Many changes are in the works right now.  Like many Americans, the economy has affected the bottom line of our wallets.  It has been over a year since I’ve had a full time position, and it seems to me like I’m starting to be pigeon-holed.

I’m going back to Ivy-Tech, for the 5th time, I believe.  I plan on starting the spring semester of ‘09.  For a while it’s going to be general courses.  I think my best bet is to get a degree in a technology field, such as CIS, or computer networking – the same degree my father has.

I don’t really want to go back, but it seems like I need to just to obtain real employment around here.  The other plus, the FSSA will pay for all expenses through the Vocation Rehabilitation program.  So I won’t be out anything but my time.

I’m going to actually bring my business activities down to a lull while in school.  I will still provide my memory saving services to individuals who are seeking them.  I’m just not going to be working at it like I once did.  There is simply not enough time.

Life isn’t that fun anymore, and I don’t have much else to say except for this update.

 

Back at the Olde TS

Thursday, July 17th, 2008

Today I have begun working at the Kelley School of Business in the Technology Services department again.  Right now I am only working on Thursday’s and Friday’s.

Hopefully this will give my ankle enough of a break to actually heal.  I hope so, as the pain is constant and uncomfortable.

I’m unsure how long I will stay with Morgenstern Home Services, as the hours have became not steady.  The price of gas is also really cutting into things, as I’ve had to fill up my tank typically twice a week.

I have sent an email to the CSR, and am awaiting a response as to when they would like me back.

The one thing that bothers me about leaving Morgenstern is the flexibility and the pay, as it is much more than I have made in a long time.  But the savings in fuel would more than make up for that difference in pay.

It’s one of those tough decisions that everyone has to make sometime in their lives.

This, That and Everything in Between

Friday, May 30th, 2008

It’s been an extremely long time since I’ve posted, and there’s a very good reason why.  I haven’t had much free time at all lately.

I took on a paper route, then after getting the kinks out and finally getting it down pat I started a new job as a Handyman for Morgenstern Home Services.

Between the two, I barely had time to sleep, let alone all the other responsibilities I have.

I’m currently in Chicago, IL.  Rachel has a conference tomorrow, and we used it as a reason to get away for a few days.

We’re staying at the Club Quarters Hotel located in the Mather Tower.  It’s the first time I’ve ever stayed in Chicago, and I must say I am enjoying it!

We’ve done much, I’ll list the highlights here:  Wicked the MusicalChicago River and Lake Michigan Boat tour, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, The Art Institute, Navy Pier, The John Hancock Center and “The Magnificent Mile.”

Pictures and more posts are sure to follow.

This break has given me an opportunity to find a replacement for the paper route.  She called me tonight asking about inserts for the Sunday paper.  I no longer have to worry about that 7 day a week commitment.

Now I have time to concentrate on various projects, such as our upcoming trip to Oklahoma to see my aunts.

Need A Paper?

Saturday, May 10th, 2008

Then I’m your man, at least on the far westside of Bloomington.

I officially became a carrier for the Herald-Times today.

Rachel and I went on the route, and we had a few hiccups but it went pretty smooth.

200 papers, 2 hours.

With high gas prices, you would think that it would be a losing situation, but it’s not.  The route is only 26 miles, and I can deduct that expense on my taxes next year.

I’m eventually going to buy a beater of a car and use it.  Until then, I think I’m going to use my truck.  This morning we learned that Rachel’s car is just a wee bit small.

Opportunity or Not?

Tuesday, May 6th, 2008

While making dinner this evening, I received a phone call.  The phone was ringing like crazy today, but this one was way out of left field.

It was the Herald-Times, asking me if I was interested in becoming a paper carrier.  I had sent them my resume about a month ago when a carrier position opened up.  It just happens that the carrier for “my” area quit.

I’ve agreed to go on a “test” run tomorrow morning, bright and early at 4:15.

This is something that I would love to do, but a 7 day a week commitment is tough for a young individual like myself.  We occasionally spend the night at friends and family members homes.  I wouldn’t want to be grounded.

In other job seeking news, I had an interview at the VA clinic in town, and got another call for an interview with what seems to be a general contracting company in town.

The interview at the VA clinic went well.  It’s a position in their front office, I’m just worried that my lack of experience in a medical office setting puts me at a disadvantage.

It would definitely be exciting to work for a general contractor again, but my back isn’t what it used to be.

Due to these concerns, I’m giving this some serious consideration.

I don’t want to work for KFC again, anything but fast food.

Just Like New…I Think

Wednesday, April 30th, 2008

I worked my last day of the semester at Kelley today, and after I left, I immediately went to pick up my mower.  It had been at John Deere since last Saturday being repaired.

I was in for a shocker at first, as I couldn’t get it started.  Once I got it started though, I was nothing but amazed.

One new but insignificant problem emerged, due to it running much better, there is much more vibration.  Because of this, the throttle will not stay at position while the engine is running.  As a quick, simple fix I jammed a wood shim underneath the throttle lever to keep it in place.  I will find a permanent fix later.

Since I bought it 2 years ago, it has been a good mower.  I have always worried about it’s lack of power, but I learned today that it was simply a carburetor problem.  It is much faster, and doesn’t bog down when going through think and tall grass.

It was definitely money well spent.

I spent the afternoon mowing our entire yard.  This task normally takes me 3 hours, I completed it in a mere 2 hours today.

The Heat is On

Monday, April 28th, 2008

This is my last week at Technology Services until next semester, at the earliest.  The CSR is going to begin to slow down, but there might be a large study to do.  It’s just a waiting game until then.

I have been applying to positions at what seems like a crazy pace at times.  I’ve had several interviews, but nothing has panned out thus far.

Hopefully I can find something to do this summer, at least.

I’m beginning to wonder if my situation would be applicable for unemployment benefits.  I haven’t quit any jobs, there is just a “lack of work” situation.

Situations such as these always work themselves out in the end, so I am sure everything will be okay.

Feast or Famine

Wednesday, April 16th, 2008

I have been steadily applying for new positions, even though I currently have 2 jobs.

I would generally get an interview here, or a callback there, but nothing really panned out.

For the past couple of nights, when we’ve gotten home there has been at least 1 message on our answering machine asking me for an interview.

Great news, right?  There’s two sides to that coin.

My current positons are academic year only, meaning they generally end once the academic year is over.  Although, I get a feeling that I may be asked to work significantly more hours next semester or even this summer at my job at the Kelley School of Business.

I have had a few interviews lately, but it seems like I’m un-something.  I guess I’m not wanted, or my skills lie in between what they are seeking and what person I’m interviewing with have.

I’m a likable guy, I don’t know what the problem is.

So I have a job interview today, tomorrow and perhaps another one within a week or so.  Two of those interviews are for “real” full time jobs.

People always say it’s easier to get a new job when you have a job, but I don’t really see it that way.  It’s a PITA for me, especially since when I’m at one job, I can barely send an email, let alone talk on the phone, and while I’m at the other I cannot speak on the phone.

This frustrates me to a point where sometimes I wish I could just crawl into a hole and not come out…

The Doors Are Opening

Thursday, February 28th, 2008

It was hard to schedule at first, but I interviewed for a computer support position at the Kelley School of Business.  It sounded interesting, but I felt like I didn’t have the skills necessary.  I was offered the job within hours of my interview.

As a touch of deja vu, it is in the “Technical Services” department, the same department I worked in at Baxter.

The customer base is very small, as they only support faculty, staff and graduate students.  It is also filtered more because they only deal with certain issues, larger problems are delegated to UITS.

I started yesterday, and didn’t do a whole lot but read.  I see this opening the doors to something greater in the future though.

Although it’s only 8 hours a week, hopefully I can add this to my resume and wow people some more.

One of my new co-workers actually said that when they saw my resume, people said that they called it the “uber-resume.”

I can’t take credit for that as my wife mainly designed it.

Spread Thin

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

Progress on projects I have undertaken has come very slow.

Here is a list of things I am currently working or trying to work on:
1. Redesign my website.
2. Redesign all electronic menus for DVDs and packaging for my products.
3. Look for permanent position with ANY company.
4. House fixes and updates.
5. Work with Kelley School of Business on plan to strategically market my business services to other local businesses.
6. Always workin’ on ROX

I do have to say that I have made some progress on the house.  A couple of weeks ago I had a day off and started a surprise for my wife.  She doesn’t like it when I do things that she has no knowledge of.  I painted our hallway.

The color doesn’t come out well in these pictures, but it’s called “Grand Stand Tan.”  It dried a lot darker than we expected, but we still like it.  I was very surprised when I went to purchase the paint, it was on sale!  So after Rachel was surprised, we bought a few more gallons to have enough to finish our living room and entry.

I also must say that all the hard work I put into the hallway definitely paid off.  Our “red” wall has a lot of character due to the texture in the wall.  That texture is there because I didn’t work on it like I did the hallway.  Besides a paint streak here and there, it’s smooth as a baby’s butt.

I have slowed way down on the redesign of my website. All the content is there, I just haven’t found a good way to add PayPal buttons on a Joomla site yet.

The redesign of my menus and packaging are going good, too good to be exact!  I have been working with my logo and have a “translucent design” working right now.  My only problem right now is that it doesn’t look good at smaller sizes.

My work situation is a weird one.  Yes I have a job, and I’m thankful for that.  But I am not a full time employee with IU, I’m an hourly employee.  I do not get paid for holidays, or time off.  Also my position is mostly an “academic-year” position.  Meaning when schools out, I’m out.  I have been applying for positions that seem to suit me, only when they come around.  I’ve had a couple of interviews, but nothing has panned out thus far.  I was really excited about a position I interviewed for last week, but as each day passes I wonder.  I don’t think this economy helps either.  I know it’s sick, but it’s times like these that I really miss my job at Baxter.

I am trying to focus on direct business sales this year.  I think if I start a working relationship with other businesses in this area, it will help my business become more successful and profitable.  I’m no marketing major, so my wife has used some of her contacts in the Kelley School of Business (where she used to work).  I have been in contact with the deans’ wife.  She teaches marketing, and is trying to help.  The only problem is communication right now.  I work when she’s in her office, and I can’t really talk on the phone.  Right now I’m not even near a computer either.  I hope this pans out, with the right plan I could make LML Video Services something bigger this year.

I’m still transferring what I have of ROX onto DVDs for storage.  Some episodes will have to be, dare I say it, repaired.  They just have too much heat damage.  I’m waiting to finish a job for a aunt to get some money.  Once that is done, B will have about 50 odd DVD’s for homework.

Plus we discovered a clog in our sewer line.  Everytime our washer drans, water comes out from under our toilet in a hurry.  My ex-contractor neighbor Bill is going to help me try to fix this problem Saturday.  I got his Wi-Fi going, he’s returning the favor.  He has some specialty tools to help.  I hope we can get this clog gone.

I have finally got my hands on a basketball goal as well.  We have a “post” that appears to be designed to have a basketball goal on it.  I have wanted one for a long time.  The prices for a bracket to attach to the post and a goal add up to a cool $100.  I have been offered one on freecycle for free.  There’s only one kicker, I have to dig this one out.  That’s my plan for Sunday – pray for me.  The strange thing?  I have never been good or even really liked basketball.  I just want the goal!

That’s all I’ve got for right now.  I’d like to write more often, but it’s hard when you have things such as this on your hands day in and day out.

I Got A REAL Job!

Wednesday, September 26th, 2007

Today I accepted a position with IU!

It’s with the Center for Survey Research as a Production Staff member.  My job duties will be as follows.

Survey packet assembly
Opening/Sorting/Batching returned mail and surveys
Formatting addresses in databases
Scanning surveys
Correcting scanned surveys
Occasional data entry
Other office tasks

I am excited about this position for several reasons.  First and foremost, it’s in Eigenmann Hallwhere my wife works, just on a different floor.  Second, it’s an office position which I have desired for a long time.

I have to go back tomorrow to fill out paperwork, ect.  I was told that I will be starting within the next couple of weeks.

The job is very flexible, as I get to set my own hours.  There is only one downside though, as it is mainly an academic year position, meaning the position is out when the kids are.  It’s something I’m willing to live with, only if the boss is.

Still Searching, But For What?!?

Friday, September 7th, 2007

Since losing my job with Sternberg, my job search efforts which were already underway have picked up significantly.  I have applied for many positions, with many different companies.

I’ve gotten several interviews, but not much more than that.

I had an interesting interview with Smithville Telephone Company (our telephone and DSL provider).  It was for a DSL support technician.  I thought the interview went well, and was told that I would be informed of a decision either way by “early” this week.  I’m still waiting…..

I had an inproptu interview at IU, in my wifes’ old stomping ground.  Interestingly enough the department I interviewed with is “somewhat” of a competitor for students with her new department.  It went great!  It’s the best interview I’ve had in a long time.  In a joking manner, the director of the department actually told me I should just stay at home since my wife’s a “big shot now.”  The job is perfect for me, as it’s mainly scanning transcripts and admission applications for the department.  I’m everything but an expert in that department, with my business experience, and the scanning I did for Baxter, I should be a shoe in.  We’ll see I guess.

Today I applied for jobs with Cook Pharmica and Whitestone.  I had to take a 6 hour test from hell just to apply to Cook Pharmica.

I still don’t know what I’m looking for exactly though.  The job market in this area is pretty bad right now.  So bad that in the end, I will probably be looking at least a 20% pay cut, if not more.  That’s just to get a job, not a job I want or desire.

The Stress is Over, For Now

Friday, August 31st, 2007

After 4 of the longest months of my life, I am finally free.  I “lost” my job at Sternbergs.  It became a living nightmare, and the most painful thing I have ever had to do.  I wanted to quit, but couldn’t.  I started searching for other means of employment but still haven’t found another position.

All I can say about the job, is that it’s the worst I’ve ever had, and that’s saying a lot!  As a teenager, I would go through jobs like most women go through clothes.

I was treated worse than the dirt I cleaned.  Many would make messes just because they knew I would have to clean them.  I was also not allowed to use the forklift, for no reason at all!  When I started asking questions, I was terminated.

My mowing opportunity was cut short with no reason at all, I received the last of my money on the day I was fired.

I’m not upset, but not happy at the same time.  It’s almost like after you experience the “O” word, you’re relaxed, stress free and have no worries.

Hopefully I will never feel like I look in this picture anymore.

So a new search is on.  A search for a job, and a search for a career.  I have scheduled a test required for Cook Pharmica and applied to PTS Electronics and Monroe Hospital.  Wish me luck!

A New Venture

Tuesday, July 10th, 2007

I have officially decided to try to expand my very small mowing business.  Just to emphasize how small it is, I only have one customer!  And that’s my current employer.

It seems to be more lucrative than video transfers, but my heart will always belong to it.

I am tired of working for someone else.  I think a vast majority of americans agree with me on that point.  I’m taking the first step to be my own boss.

My wife and I created the flyer below, I have printed 100 of them and I’m currently working on sending them out.  I specifically picked a wide variety of businesses, churches and upper middle class to upper class homeowners who might already pay to have someone handle their yard work.

I hope to receive a 25% rate of return on this venture.  If so the possibility of me being self employed is quite possible.

The only problem with a business of this type is the shear number of them in the area, literally hundreds!  I do have one leg up on them though, the same leg I have with my video business, I can undercut anyone due to my lack of expenses.  I have good equipment, and do a good job.  I’m not trying to get rich, I’m just hoping to make the same as I do now.

Wish me luck, please?

The Last Shift

Saturday, April 7th, 2007

Tonight as I sit here I am trying to figure out an ingenious way to say “goodbye.”

I am due to start at Sternbergs on Monday, and didn’t have time to give an official notice.

I left many, many jobs as a teenager by interesting means.  When I was a landscaper, I really wanted out.  I called my mom and told her to come where I was and tell the supervisor that I had a doctors appointment.  She came, we left and I never looked back.

I feel as if I need to “leave my mark,” but I’m not sure how.  I thought of leaving the manager a note.  It would read:  I wanted to write a poem, I wanted to write a letter.  In the end, f*** you sounded much better.  Thank you for the 5 months that I appreciated so.  I have come to find that my family means more to me than any job.  Of course, you don’t have to worry about such things.

What repurcussions might I face?  This place is a customer of my new employer.  Could I be “haunted” from beyond?  That’s the only thing holding me back from performing this deed.

Free At Last, Free At Last

Wednesday, April 4th, 2007

Those very famous words, spoken by the immortal Dr. Martin Luther King are exactly what I’m feeling now.

Today, I accepted an offer for a new job.  I finally get to leave my horrible work hours, days and conditions behind.  Thank God!

The new position is at Sternberg, an International truck dealership.  They are headquartered out of Jasper Indiana, with locations in Evansville and Bloomington.  The position isn’t glamourous by any means, I will be simply cleaning up the shop.  The best part is I can have a life again, as it is Monday thru Friday (with some Saturdays) and 7:30 to 4:30.  Small world, my wife’s hometown is 10 minutes away from Jasper!

It is in a place with the same atmosphere as where I’m currently working (a truck shop), but there is room for advancement within the company and other “normal” benefits.  What’s normal you ask?  Try holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving.

All I feel is joy, I never realized how better I would feel about a new job.

The person hiring me has done a very quick job.  I applied to the position last Thursday, had an interview Monday and was offered the position today!  He called here and spoke with my wife first thing this morning and said “he wanted to talk to me.”  She immediately called me and told me to call him.  I was still at my soon to be old job, so I went and hid and started calling.  Their automated night time system was still on and I couldn’t get a hold of anyone for a while, once I did I told him I would be there asap.

I will miss my co-worker CJ, as he has become a dear friend.  I told him this morning about everything before I left, as I am on my weekend now and wouldn’t see him again until Sunday night.  He gave me his digits and told me to call him.  I told him the same.  I’ll miss you CJ!

Things at FirstLease were getting to a breaking point, and I’m glad to be gone.  I was a temp there the whole time, 2 months after I started they hired another temp.  Just a week or so ago they hired him as a permanent employee, but didn’t mention a thing to me.  The climate there is very hostile, and discrimintory.  There are a select few who can do no wrong (but do all the time) and then the rest are always “on notice.”  CJ has a picture and sign on his toolbox, that are quite funny.  The picture has 3 people figures of different colors and it says, “equal what???.”  The other is a sign made out of cardboard, it says “Discrimination Lane.”  I think that paints the picture of how he sees the place.

Thank God Almighty I’m Free At Last.