Local workers honored

Two local union workers were honored on October 2 for their heroism and speedy action that saved the lives of Upper West Side residents last July.
The event, organized by Manhattan Media and Local 32BJ, acknowledges the efforts of door attendants, security officers, commercial officers, school cleaners, repair people and other service workers who have made outstanding contributions to their workplace and community.
Special distinctions include the Lifesaver Award, which recognizing those who go beyond the call of duty to keep others from harm, the 30 Year Award to honor lifetime service and the Doorman of the Year Award. “We are happy for this prize and grateful that no one was hurt in the fire,” said Izet Neljkovic.
The two heroes, Izet Neljkovic and Endri Brahimaj, were at work when they noticed that a brownstone across the street was filling with smoke. Ablaze, the top floor of the apartment was ablaze and the fire quickly spread to the building’s roof but did rouse the occupants. As the heat engulfed the upper floors and glass from the exploding windows went crashing down onto the street, both men rushed to into the building, banging on doors, yelling, “fire,” and ushering the residents to safety.
Originally, from Montenegro, Izet Neljkovic moved to the United States in 1995. He is a proud father of his 17-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter. Currently, a resident of Astoria, Queens, Neljkovic has been employed in the Upper West Side as a porter at the Level Club for the past 11 years. Endri Brahimaj, a 19-year-old who has family in Tirana, Albania, and who now lives in Glendale, plans to enroll in college in the near future. He has been a door attendant for the Level Club since the summer of 2007.