By Kevin Pham

Staff Writer

  From fresh fruits and vegetables to piping hot meals, the bustling Alhambra Farmers Market is where one would find freshman Elliott Gray on Sundays. Working with her father, she serves customers of Rub45 their specialty: barbeque.  

  She landed the job in a rather unconventional way. Fortunately for Gray, her dad did not require a job application.

 “My dad needed somebody to work with him on Sundays and I was always curious about what it was like to be a cashier so I asked and he said sure,” stated Gray.

  Gray ended up falling in love with the atmosphere of the busy market after spending a summer working in the family business as a cashier.

  “I stayed because he needed help and I really enjoyed the people who worked in the booths next to me,” explained Gray. “Our regulars are really sweet too and I’m not just saying that because they buy food from us.”

  Her father’s passion for cooking is what brought their business to life. Rub45 features delectable meats that include Austin style brisket, North Carolina pulled pork, Kansas City baby back ribs, rosemary lemon chicken, among many other amazing dishes.

  Gray revealed that her dad “enjoys cooking and learned when he was younger from his Grandma. He also enjoys making people happy and food was a way to do that.”

  Running and starting a business at a farmers market is not an easy task. Although it is only one day of work for Gray, it is hours of preparation for her dad as he caters at different markets throughout the week. His days start at 3 am most mornings due to the variety of items highlighted at his booth.

  “[The job] taught me how hard it is to do something you love,” said Gray. “Of course there are days when I don’t want to wake up, but, I think about how my dad needs my help and that is what gets me out of bed every Sunday.”

  Despite all the grueling work that Gray and her father have to invest in order to make their business successful, she is grateful for everything her job has taught her.

  For someone considering having a job in high school, Gray advised, “Do it! Go for it. It’s a great way to get an idea of what it’s like to have a job and a somewhat big responsibility.”