Job Spike for the Holiday Season... that's all

[Michael Lawler]

Dear Senator Brown,

I am concerned about the new unemployment numbers and people perceiving this might be a growth in quality career opportunities for folks.  Couldn't this just be a reflection of a seasonal spike in minimum wage retail jobs that will disappear after the holiday gift rush is over?  Will people gain health plans with these jobs? Add to their retirement plans or family's college funds with these opportunities?

And of course the statisticians don't adjust this figure for people who have just given up seeking jobs or who have used up their unemployment benefits and aren't included in the analysis.  

When the UMass senior asked about her prospects for a career in the recent debate, she got the stump speech from Professor Warren.  In essence the college senior was told to wait for a stimulus job laying asphalt on road projects.  You gave the student a more thoughtful answer, detailing the dynamic process of job creation through the reduction of burdens which inhibit small business growth or indeed, cause them to shrink.  You talked to the student about specific mechanisms which will enhance job creation, not down to her with a vague stump speech.  I think she got it. I think she saw the difference. 

Can people really perceive this dip in the unemployment numbers as any more than minimum wages for three months?  I don't get it.  The nation needs more. We need careers not seasonal work.  America deserves better. Keep up the good work Senator Brown.

The South Shore Brigade