There is an episode of Seinfeld in which George Costanza worries that a store’s security guard might be tired, so he brings him a rocking chair to sit in; the episode ends with the guard falling asleep and the store being robbed. In contrast, Anton and Henry—two of the Lincoln Square BID’s Public Safety Team Supervisors—could not be persuaded to sit, even while being interviewed, preferring to stand so that passers-by recognized that they were still available to offer support, if needed. Almost on cue, an Italian family hesitantly walked up to Anton and requested information on the quickest way to get from Lincoln Center’s Fordham Campus to Grand Central.
Clad in crisp uniforms—white button-downs, black slacks, and black officers’ caps—the duo is part of a team of about 10 public safety officers that monitor conditions on the streets 7 days a week. When asked what their job entails, they discussed their roles managing the Public Safety team and teaching new employees; reporting on issues such as vendors and homelessness; working hand in hand with the Clean Team to note and remove graffiti, posters, and other trash; and perhaps, most important of all, serving as ambassadors. “We basically provide customer service; it’s not just about Lincoln Square—we help people navigate the whole city, even getting to the airports,” notes Anton.
Originally from Russia and Georgia respectively, Anton and Henry both previously worked in the security industry at other locations throughout the City. Anton joined the team two years ago, and Henry has helped guide visitors and residents in Lincoln Square for 22 years. Both public safety officers show an astounding level of service to the neighborhood, with a professionalism that truly sets them apart. For Anton, interacting with people from all over the world is a highlight of the job; Henry also enjoys meeting visitors, but says he equally appreciates the familiarity brought about by getting to know residents: “That’s also my favorite part: the people who live here considering us neighbors, not just security guards or ambassadors; it creates a real community feeling.”
While on duty, our public safety officers do not have the luxury of enjoying the neighborhood, as they are on their feet, ready to assist, but their favorite spots include Dante Park in the summer for Henry and the benches located in the Broadway Malls for Anton. Outside of work, Anton enjoys reading, in particular horror or detective stories. He is also interested in history, noting some of the interesting facts he’s learned about the neighborhood—like the role of Russian-born George Balanchine in creating the NYC Ballet and the David H. Koch Theater, or how the elevated train cut through the neighborhood years ago. Meanwhile, Henry enjoys boxing. Beyond being a great stress reliever, he finds it a great way to learn about dealing with pressure, setting boundaries, and thinking about problems in a new way.
“What’s one thing you’d like to tell people in the neighborhood?” I prodded, as we wrapped up our interview. “Thank you!” Henry replied. “People consider me a neighbor, thank me for my job, know my name. I used to know a Japanese neighbor who would always say ‘Hello’ and tell me about Japan. To experience that and learn from him… Thank you!” For Anton, it was “Have a great day!” People always ask for help or directions, and that’s always his reply—he hopes his directions and recommendations help everyone have a safe and happy rest of their day.
