To the editor: I used to be 14 once I received a job on the Sizzling Canine on a Stick location within the Glendale Galleria, which had not too long ago opened circa 1977 (“Hot Dog on a Stick comeback road map: New owner, rapid expansion and lobster — on a stick,” July 22). Again then, all you can purchase was a corn canine, cheese stick and/or lemonade, every costing solely $1. I pounded recent lemons and used an influence drill to combine the cornmeal whereas sporting the quick shorts, tank high and tall hat that the institution provided.
There have been solely feminine workers on the time, and we labored in vibrant mild on a raised platform with mirrored partitions — clearly, we have been on show. We performed up to date music that blared throughout the meals court docket. It was extra enjoyable than work.
I knew founder Dave Barham. He handled the ladies with respect and kindness and paid us above minimal wage with common, constant raises. There have been Sizzling Canine on a Sticks in nearly each mall, so I used to be allowed to work at different retailers throughout summer season break (once I wished to be by the seaside).
By the point I used to be a junior in highschool, I used to be making $17.50 an hour. Even in my teenage mind, I understood that Barham noticed that his empire was worthwhile primarily as a result of minimal stock, so he invested in paying his workers wage.
I hope this iconic California “quick meals joint” lives on, even when it’s in Las Vegas and nowhere close to a seaside.
Heidi Simmons, Coachella Valley
