She is Club Ray's bouncer and one of the most talked about members of the waitstaff here at PC. You may know her as the lady who catches you sneaking out cups, or the one who turns your frown up-side down as you lug your thesis and Civ books into Ray, but there are two things that are certain about Janina; she loves her job and she is a staple of our student life. It was a hard task to get this busy woman to sit down for an interview, but once established, the secret life of Janina was unraveled.
Janina's accent hails from Ladz, Poland, where she was born and raised. At age 20, she came to New York City. Her 14 years in the Big Apple consisted of taking computer courses and working at J.P. Morgan. This Polish poppet was married for 42 years and now has four grandchildren. Her husband passed away nine years ago, but "now I'm single!" she laughs; however, "I'm not looking for a boyfriend." So stay away, PC men! Anyway, her schedule is booked as it is without dates. When not working, she's cooking authentic Polish food like pierogis or golabki (stuffed cabbage), playing cards with her friends, or going out to her favorite restaurant, Greek, located on North Main Street. It has been nine years since she entered the Café Ray-Ray doors and her enthusiasm throughout the interview attests that it has been= great since the start.
A Little Q and A:
What's your favorite food at Ray?
Salad and the beef barley soup.
What's your favorite time of year?
Summer and winter; in the winter I used to go skiing and skating… those are some of my favorite memories. I'm too old to do that now!
What's your favorite Ray themed meal?
Oh yes! I dress up for different holidays like Halloween… [but] Christmas is my favorite.
What's your favorite station to work at in Ray?
The cash register. I've worked there for eight years now. I get to see you kids and be involved in student life.
Who's your favorite student?
My favorite student is everyone! I love you all! I enjoy seeing you kids and being active in the student life…You know, I'm always joking and cheering you [the students] up…some [students] come in here down or stressed and I'll ask them 'What's wrong?' I'm the mom and grandmother (laughs). Sometimes I'm the doctor! They say they have a stomachache… and I'll tell them to drink hot tea and lemon.
Where do you want to go on vacation?
Europe! I've been back to Poland six or seven times since I left, (but) I would really love to go to Europe for two to three months.
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