Going Back to Work with the Grizzlies | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Friday, April 10, 2009

Fresno, CA For fans and players, the Grizzlies home opener has been a long-time coming. But it's more than just a game. For some, it's a fresh start.

"I lost my job and I've been looking for a job for a year and a half," said Joaquin Sosa.

/*Chukchansi Park*/ hired Joaquin Sosa after he, and more than a thousand other job seekers, showed up for a job fair back in January. Only 100 people were hired for various part-time, seasonal positions that pay eight-dollars an hour.

"Having a little money in my pocket, it's a blessing," said Sosa.

At 61 years old, Dick Dailey says he too, feels lucky to work at Chukchansi Park. Dailey was laid off from his transportation job last summer. He and his wife have ushered in the past, and were both hired after they too, showed up at January's job fair.

Dailey said, "We really do this for mad money. It's just something extra."

Park officials say many of the people hired this season come from a variety of industries. Paul Kennedy, with the Grizzlies said, "The nice thing about what we do here is we can teach you to do the jobs that we need you to do and if you like being around people and you like being around the game of baseball, it's going to be an easy transition for you. But, absolutely, this is I'm sure a little of an employment shock for some of these people."

Bryan Sall said, "No I didn't really see myself working out here at the /*Grizzlies stadium*/, but you have to do what you have to do."

The people hired from that job fair will work other events hosted at Chukchansi Park, like concerts and Fuego games.

Their jobs will last until the end of August.