In the Headlights: Lavette Petersen
This month, Lavette Petersen is "in the headlights." Lavette works in Mercer's Driver Qualifications department.
Q: Lavette, how long have you been working at Mercer?
A: 4 years.
Q: What is a typical day like for you in the DQ?
A: I receive several applications a day and run their MVR's, DAC"s, verify employment histories, fill out reference requests and termination paperwork. I also take phone calls and help cover the phones for the safety department.
Q:What do you like most about working at Mercer?
A: The camaraderie. I've made a lot of friends here.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: I'm proud of my grandchildren. My granddaughter, Melanie, is 7 and my grandson, Sammy, is 4.
Q: Do the grandkids have their Halloween costumes picked out yet?
A: Well, Sammy is going to be a "bumblebee transformer." Melanie wants to be a "mean witch" - not just a regular witch (laughs).
Q: I heard you moved into a new place? What's it like?
A: Yes! I bought my first home this year in the South End of Louisville. I love working on it and fixing it up.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: I have two dogs. Jacks is a chow mix. I got him a month after I moved to my new home. I also have a blue heeler, Isis. I got her in August and she is 6 months old. They are two peas in a pod. I feel safer with them in the house.
Q: What sort of things do you like to do in your free time?
A: I love motorcycles and going to motorcycle rallies. I like going to country and rock concerts. I love doing anything outdoors - just being out in the sun. I love the beach! If I have the chance to travel, I'd visit all of the best beaches.
Q: What is something that most people don't know about you?
A: I read a lot. Right now, I'm reading a romance novel, but I also like science fiction. I like to switch from one extreme to the other.
Q: Have you ever visited a foreign country?
A: I've always wanted to visit Mexico and last year I decided to do it by myself. I just made up my mind that I was going and I took two part time jobs to pay for it. It was beautiful. The weather was great and I met a lot of people from all over the world.