Locals seek employment for Quiksilver event

“I think this is great for locals,” Long Beach resident Rich Napolitano said on Monday at City Hall. “I have a security license — I’m looking for part-time work.”

Though Napolitano works as a middle and high school social studies teacher in Islip, the decision to come to an open house to apply for a security position for the upcoming Quiksilver Pro New York surf contest was an easy one, he said. “I’ve done security for years — I’ve worked in clubs and bars in Long Beach,” he said. “I have two kids and a wife. Money is always needed.”

Uniondale-based Summit Security Services Inc. will provide security for the tournament Sept. 1-15 — the first Association of Surfing Professionals world tour event ever held on the East Coast, which is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors not only for the surfing, but for concerts, action sports exhibitions and other activities.

Summit has hosted open houses at City Hall throughout August, and representatives said that the company is seeking active and retired law enforcement and EMS personnel for security positions. Hundreds of job seekers from Long Beach and surrounding communities have turned out, many of whom say that given the current economic climate, they welcome any available job.

“No one’s hiring — it’s slow,” said Oceanside resident Gary Pearlstein, who was an alarm technician for 27 years but has been unemployed for two and a half years. “I’d rather go into my own field. But I need a job.”

Among the requirements for those applying for the temporary positions include a high school diploma or GED, a minimum age of 18 and, preferably, a New York state security officer’s license, according to information on the city’s website.

Summit representatives said the company has provided security for such large-scale events as the U.S. Open. Nick Auletta, Summit’s vice president, said that it is thrilled to be a part of the Quiksilver Pro New York. “We’re excited for the event — it’s going to be great for Long Beach,” Auletta said, adding that the company is offering “part-time positions to supplement our current guard force.”