New York, NY – Laborers Local 60 and the New York State Laborers-Employers Cooperation Education Trust recognized essential workers helping to keep Westchester County moving by giving them free meals on Tuesday as they worked on job sites in New Rochelle and Yonkers.
At the Montesano job site in Yonkers, 35 union members consisting of Laborers, Operating Engineers and Teamsters milled and paved over utility patches for the utility work that has been completed along the Bronx River Parkway. The 35 union members employed for PAB Contracting did similar work in New Rochelle.
“From highway maintenance and repairs, to hospital construction, to housing for the homeless and more, New York’s Laborers have been on the frontlines doing the hard work to benefit their communities,” said Anthony Ascencao, Business Manager, Laborers’ Local 60. “It’s true across the state, and it’s especially here in Westchester County. We are eternally grateful for the work of hospital staffs and first responders, but also want to take a moment to thank these hardworking men and women.”
Two members from Laborers’ LECET, two staff members from Local 60 and one person from the New York State Laborers’ Health and Safety Trust Fund handed out the food, which they received a discount for from Bagel Land owner Joe Gil, who appreciated the work they were doing.
“It’s been a great experience serving these workers on the job today. And they are helping local restaurants like mine survive these hard times,” said Gil. “We might not always recognize some professions as essential until we need them. These workers are keeping the roads I drive to work in safe and operational.”
Patrick Purcell, the executive director of LECET wants the members to know their wellbeing is his top priority.
“Our members play an essential role in keeping our state safe and operational. We are thankful for the opportunity to show our gratitude,” said Purcell.
Jay Fragoso, a field representative for Local 60, believes it’s always important to tell the members “thank you” for their dedication.
“Construction, in ideal conditions, can be dangerous, difficult and demanding work,” said Fragoso. “This is especially true in the middle of a pandemic. And yet, we have so many members working every day and getting the job done safely because they know others are depending on them.”
Laborers Local 60 has been using the hashtag #Local60Strong on social media to show solidarity on essential work sites, which people can follow along on Facebook to see the progress they are making on these sites, and any new projects they are working on.
Local 60 would like community members to show their appreciation by posting words of encouragement for these men and women in the field on social media.
“I want them to know that their work is important and has not gone unnoticed,” Ascencao said.
