Sanitation workers recognized as unsung heroes

On May 21, 2020, Essex County Freeholder President Brendan Gill and Montclair landmark Ray’s Luncheonette provided lunch to the entire Montclair Sanitation Department in gratitude for their continued service during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, sponsored by Freeholder Gill and catered by Ray’s Luncheonette, was held at the Refuse Recycling and Bulk Waste Community Services Building on North Fullerton Avenue.

Sanitation workers are extremely important to the cleanliness and order of our communities. Yet in many respects, they have been overlooked and have not received the proper recognition for their service. In Montclair, the sanitation workers have not missed a beat. They have continued to do their job and do it well. Freeholder President Gill stated. “This lunch was just a small gesture to show them they are appreciated, and we do recognize their service as front-line essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

In addition to honoring the sanitation workers, President Gill also conveyed how important it is for residents to patronize local small businesses. “Ray’s has a long and storied history in Montclair,” Gill stated, “and now more than ever we need to support Ray’s and similar small businesses.”

Ray’s Luncheonette is owned by Angelica Flores. She is a former waitress of the restaurant who purchased the business in 2018 from Usredo Molina. She expressed great joy and pride in having the opportunity to give back to the community. “I was very happy to take part in feeding our sanitation workers today,” Ms. Flores stated, “and continuing the tradition of serving the Montclair community established by Ray Festa.”

The event lasted two hours and 60 people were served. Ray’s is open for business and looking forward to serving as many people as possible while maintaining social distancing protocols and keeping customers safe.