Heck, I should apply for my old CA slot. They already typed me and it sounds like if I sit just right in the interview I could sweet talk them into getting my '99 seniority number back.
All kidding aside, take what "Dad" says between the lines to heart. Highly qualified pilots will not be applying to Mesaba or any other regional for that matter. There are too many places hiring with more to offer. That being said, XJ and any other regional, are great places to learn some skills and move on if you are on the lower end of the experience level.
HOWEVER....
Those hired from '96-'01 had very little experience as well. XJ was growing, majors were hiring, and other regionals were getting jets. XJ got the low timers when everyone was requiring around 1500tt/500me. Doesn't seem like much has changed except the numbers in the hiring mins.
Good luck to all the applicants and best wishes for those friends I have that are still there.