Massive turnout out at Westerly Armory for Ocean House job fair

Westerly – Hundreds of unemployed people turned out for the job fair at the Westerly Armory this morning hoping to snag hospitality work at Ocean House.

Laid-off workers from Foxwoods Resort Casino, college students, and people who have been unemployed for a year or more lined the walkway into the street, then waited in lines when they got in the door. After filling out applications and submitting resumes, they sat in rows of seats waiting for a series of four interviews that might lead to a call back.

Job candidates began arriving as early as 8:15 a.m., said Michael J. London, who handles public relations for Ocean House.

The 136-year-old New England hotel reopens in June after a $140 million rebuild and restoration. Daniel Hostettler, the luxury, beachfront resort's managing director, is overseeing a staff of 30 interviewing for full- and part-time positions ranging from guest relations and restaurant managers to floor valets that combine the skills of butler and housekeeper.

About 200 jobs will be filled, he said.

Kathleen Gilbertie and Margaret Saunders of Pawcatuck waited in line inside the armory, resumes and references in hand. Gilbertie was laid off from Foxwoods last July. Saunders lost her job at Ametek SCP of Westerly, which makes cables for submarines, she said.

"It's a long road to get hired," said Gilbertie. "I figure, the more you put yourself out there, the better your chances of getting hired."

Hiring was scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. today, and again on March 23.