A different kind of Sept. 11 memorial
In the six years since the Sept. 11 attacks, the memorials and tributes have been as diverse as the victims we lost that day. From Port Authority police officers to pilots and World Trade Center custodians, the more than 3,000 people we remember today will continue to be memorialized around the globe forever.
Standing apart from big screen movies donating a percentage of their box office and countless local fundraisers is a restaurant. Yes, a restaurant. New York City’s Colors, which opened in 2006, is rare in that it’s actually a co-op in which all employees (from managers to dishwashers) are actually equal owners in the business. And pay begins at $13.50 per hour.
But that’s not the only thing that makes Colors unique. The restaurant is actually staffed by about 50 workers who previously worked at Windows on the World, the famous upscale eatery and bar that called the World Trade Center home until Sept. 11, 2001. That’s when American Airlines flight 11 slammed into the complex’s North Tower, claiming the lives of 73 Windows workers. These victims included dozens of hourly restaurant workers, such as Jesus Canezas, 66, a cook; and Nancy Diaz, 28, a kitchen assistant.
Now Colors serves as a memorial for the lost but never forgotten Windows workers, as well as their living friends and former co-workers who raised money for the new restaurant and managed its launch. In fact, the name “Colors” has a purpose: The eclectic group of workers who run the restaurant all contribute to the unique and diverse menu.
In addition, Window’s former Executive Chef Michael Lomonaco helped raise more than $20 million for the families’ of fallen Windows’ workers. Lomonaco, who cooked at a Sept. 11 relief kitchen after the attacks, also has a new restaurant: Porter House New York.
So if you find yourself in the Big Apple looking for a bite to eat, why not make your meal truly meaningful?
