Letter: Everyone must do their part for economy

Tuesday, May 28, 2002 | 8:50 a.m.

In response to Jeff German's May 19 column, "Culinary steps up the heat in talks":

In the aftermath of Sept. 11, I was only one of thousands laid off from the gaming and hospitality industry. I was a part-time dealer in a major Strip hotel. After six months of job hunting, training for another field and accepting a lower- paying job, I was rehired on March 18. Currently, I have no benefits; however, I consider myself fortunate to have a job and the opportunity for possible benefit eligibility.

Our city's economy is just starting to recover. We cannot afford, neither as business owners nor employees, to risk losing what has taken eight months to attain. Concerned visitors may decide to cancel their plans to travel to Las Vegas, due to the impending strike. This could cause our rebounding occupancy rates to crumble.

After being humbled from the events of the past eight months, people should take stock at what we have and be thankful. This does not mean accept demeaning actions or behavior, but to understand that everyone has responsibilities.

Most employees, from any industry, must pay either all or at least a portion of their medical benefits. This can be costly and unmanageable for some, though I believe most are appreciative simply for the eligibility of these benefits.

In addition, many employees have daily goals or quotas to accomplish. An individual's work ethic should include viewing the big picture.

SUSAN DICKERMAN