In the bustling world of Fenway Park, there's a hidden community of concessions workers who have dedicated decades of their lives to the iconic ballpark. Their stories are a testament to the unique bonds formed within the walls of this legendary sports venue.
The Fenway Family
What makes these workers stay for so long? It's a question that leads us down a path of understanding the deep-rooted connections and the sense of community that thrives behind the scenes.
Peter Dankens, a veteran worker, sums it up perfectly: "It's just family here. Everybody looks out for everybody." This sentiment echoes through the generations of workers, from Dankens himself to his son, Charlie, who is now in his third year at the park.
The longevity of these workers is remarkable. Michelle Doherty, a platinum-blonde native of Woburn, and Alicia, a silver-haired tough-talker, have both clocked in an impressive 47 years at Fenway. Their barback, Raresh Ivancov, a Romanian immigrant, might be considered a rookie by comparison, but his five years of service is still a significant commitment.
A Second Home, A Second Family
For many, Fenway is more than just a workplace; it's a second home. Dankens, who also works full-time at John Hancock, plans to retire from his corporate job but not from his beloved post at Fenway. "I'm gonna stay forever," he declares with a sense of loyalty and affection.
The job is not without its challenges. Workers are on their feet for hours, often in sweltering conditions, and they must deal with the occasional 'chucklehead' customer. Yet, the rewards are evident in the tight-knit community they've built.
Derek Swartz, vice president of operations at Aramark, which runs Fenway's concessions, notes that roughly 350 workers have been there for over a decade. This longevity speaks volumes about the appeal of working at Fenway.
A Culture of Care and Camaraderie
The subculture behind the scenes at Fenway is one of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Dankens grew up near the concessions manager and many neighborhood kids got their start at the ballpark. The sense of family is palpable, with workers looking out for each other and sharing in each other's joys and sorrows.
This culture of care extends to the customers as well. Doherty and Alicia, with their warm and welcoming personalities, have become Fenway institutions in their own right. Customers like Ann French and her husband, Alan Brock, treat them as friends, exchanging Christmas cards and sharing in the ups and downs of the Sox's season.
The Power of Union and Community
Last year's strike, the first of its kind for concessions workers, highlighted the strength of their community. Dankens, despite not relying heavily on wage raises, stood with his team out of a sense of obligation and solidarity.
The strike resulted in a new union contract, securing pay bumps, seniority provisions, and limits on self-checkout machines. It was a testament to the power of collective action and the deep bonds that these workers share.
A Legacy of Loyalty
The story of Fenway's concessions workers is a heartwarming tale of loyalty, community, and the enduring power of human connection. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding aspects of life are found in the places we least expect, and the people we work alongside can become our second family.
As Dankens rolls down the shutter at the end of a long night, he's not just closing a booth; he's closing another chapter in the ongoing story of Fenway Park's enduring family.
