NYSEG workers and their families honored in Beekman after July 4 storm response
Many of the workers were called away from family celebrations when strong winds knocked out power to nearly 23,000 NYSEG customers in eastern Dutchess County.
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A Dutchess County community is recognizing the utility workers and families who spent much of the summer restoring power during severe storms.
NYSEG line workers, engineers and their families were honored with a special luncheon at Beekman Town Hall after a storm season that included major outages during the July 4 holiday weekend.
Many of the workers were called away from family celebrations when strong winds knocked out power to nearly 23,000 NYSEG customers in eastern Dutchess County.
For line worker Jon Stern and his family, those interruptions have become part of life.
His wife, Jessica Stern, says their two sons understand the importance of their father's work and are proud of the role he plays in helping communities recover after storms.
Town Supervisor Laureen Abbatatuono said she understands those sacrifices. Her father worked as a line worker for more than four decades.
"We are truly grateful for everything you did during that time, a very difficult time. Your dedication did not go unnoticed," Abbatatuono told workers.
The event also highlighted the dangers utility crews face while restoring power. Officials noted that an NYSEG contractor suffered an electric shock during restoration efforts earlier this summer.
Line worker Mark Musumeci said community support means a great deal to workers who spend long hours away from home during emergencies.
"This helps a lot. It shows the workers that people do notice and do care," Musumeci said.
NYSEG CEO Patricia Nilsen also attended the event and spoke about the sacrifices utility workers and their families make when storms strike.
She recalled having to leave while helping her daughter move into a college dorm because of a storm response.
"All of the families here understand what it takes," Nilsen said.
