On July 4, we took several families and OSY to see the fireworks at Parris Island. Although we got there too late for the inflatables and food, we did get to see a great fireworks show. Next year we will have to arrive when the gates open at 5 to take full advantage of all the events and music. What a great opportunity to expose others to American culture.
OSY Update: As of July 4, 2011, we have identified and recruited 182 OSY. Although the number of migrant workers seems to be greater this summer, the number of OSY would seem to be fewer than last year. One reason I suspect this is true is because of the fact that we had 350 H-2A (Visa) workers this year who came to South Carolina instead of working in Georgia as planned. H-2A workers tend to be a little older than the maximum age of 21 to be given the OSY status. By the way, one reason that so many workers skipped Georgia this year is because of the strict, anti-immigration law that was passed in Georgia just before harvest season began. Sadly, as a result, 40% of Georgia's harvest went unpicked this year.
The greater number of workers in SC meant that less money was to be made for the workers in general. As a result, many workers, especially with families, left SC early to be the first ones in line to pick tomatoes in Virginia. This explains why the migrant day school at St. Helena Elementary School is closing about 2 weeks early this year.
It will be interesting to see how the strict, new immigration law going into effect in SC on January 1, 2012 will affect next years number of workers and harvest totals.
OSY Update: As of July 4, 2011, we have identified and recruited 182 OSY. Although the number of migrant workers seems to be greater this summer, the number of OSY would seem to be fewer than last year. One reason I suspect this is true is because of the fact that we had 350 H-2A (Visa) workers this year who came to South Carolina instead of working in Georgia as planned. H-2A workers tend to be a little older than the maximum age of 21 to be given the OSY status. By the way, one reason that so many workers skipped Georgia this year is because of the strict, anti-immigration law that was passed in Georgia just before harvest season began. Sadly, as a result, 40% of Georgia's harvest went unpicked this year.
The greater number of workers in SC meant that less money was to be made for the workers in general. As a result, many workers, especially with families, left SC early to be the first ones in line to pick tomatoes in Virginia. This explains why the migrant day school at St. Helena Elementary School is closing about 2 weeks early this year.
It will be interesting to see how the strict, new immigration law going into effect in SC on January 1, 2012 will affect next years number of workers and harvest totals.
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