"The Ranger" > wrote in message
...
> On Wed, 13 Oct 2004 12:53:19 GMT, "Jack Schidt®"
> > wrote:
>> My remark wasn't in support of tipping a counterperson
>> but rather a response to the way $7 an hour was
>> presented as a kingly sum of money.
>
> But it _is_ a nice wage, commensurate with the level of work
> required and (usually) the level of education said grunt has
> attained. Graveyard and <Parentitis Flare-up on the other early-am
> shift title> get paid slightly more because of the hours needed but
> US$7.00 for simple counter help is quite high. Especially with
> today's cash registers; scan the item (or punch a specific key),
> punch in the amount tendered, and give back the correct change
> stated on the display. How much effort is required from that?
> Certainly not a BS in EE... You have to be able to breath or smile,
> usually not both simultaneously; that's a bonus but you don't pay
> extra for that.
>
> The Ranger

I agree, working a counter ain't rocket science and it depends on what kinda
counter is being worked. A busy Dunkin Donuts or a gift shop?

$7 an hour is ok for a kid who lives with his parents and can walk to work.
Or it's probably ok for someone living in the sun belt or in the flyover
states. Around here, gas is 2 bucks a gallon and a one bedroom apt is at
least $800 a month. Food prices are climbing, too. So that 7 an hour,
full-time is $1120 or probably closer to a thousand bucks after deductions.
Take away the 800 for rent and you've got 200 bucks, or 50 a week to live
on. Good argument to stay in school, no?

If pay were truly commensurate with the level of work performed, half this
country would be making 7 bucks an hour. [your emoticon here] Of course,
that excludes me because my job is truly valuable [your emoticon here].

Jack Wage