October 8, 2008 Irishman Jimmy Gibbons had the door opened for him this time. Gibbons has been recognized as New York City's East Side Doorman of the Year.
Gibbons, who stepped ashore in America in 1959 after bidding farewell to his native county Mayo, has been working for the past 20 years as the doorman at 1120 Park Avenue.

"His hard work and dedication brought him a record number of nominations from building tenants, family members and co-workers," said Lynsey Kryzwick of SEIU Local 32BJ, which is behind the award.

The presentation to Gibbons was part of the 2nd annual Building Service Workers Awards ceremony which was presided over by legendary journalists Jimmy Breslin and Gabe Pressman of WNBC.

The awards recognize doormen, security officers, commercial office and school cleaners, handymen, and other service workers who have made outstanding contributions to their workplace and community.

Winners were selected based on online nominations from co-workers, employers, building tenants, family and friends.

With more than 100,000 members, including 70,000 in the New York City area, Local 32BJ is the largest property services union in the country.