Jan 20, 2009 19:29
Today, the United States and most of the world watched in wonder as the first African-American was sworn into the highest elected office in this nation. It was riveting, and exciting, and no one will forget where they were when it happened.
I know I won't. I was waiting to find out if I still had a job.
This afternoon, at 2pm, ClearChannel radio terminated my position at the local AM radio station, along with three other workers. My position was the most expendable on the AM side; while I did do board operator work, my main role was as a reporter, which ClearChannel no longer needed as they are weeding out local news coverage. I was given my last three weeks' worth of pay, and a nice severance package for the next couple pay cycles.
Tomorrow, while millions of people wait to see how Obama's first full day in office goes, I will be speaking with my apartment complex, packing boxes, and trying desperately to find employment in an economy already drained to the dregs. My husband and I will be moving in with my mother-in-law, and trying to get our feet back underneath us.
I'm actually rather excited about the prospect. My previous job was the only thing holding my husband and I in the area, and now that it's gone, I see several doors opening. But that doesn't mean anything in the next couple months is going to be easy.
living,
journalism,
job