150 Line Up for 15 Union Jobs in Queens

Dozens of people camped out for days outside a Queens union hall for the chance at a job with a union that works on insulation projects.
 
More than 150 hopeful workers were in line early Monday just to get an application. There are only about 15 to 17 spots with Local 12 of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators.
 
"It's a really good opportunity to better your life for your family," said Joseph Taddeo, of Ronkonkoma, who has been camped out on the sidewalk in a tent since Thursday night.
 
The first person was in line at 8 p.m. Thursday, and by Monday, the line was around the building and down the block.
 
The workers, mostly men, huddled in tents through the weekend rain, but were allowed into the hall to use the bathrooms.
 
The applicants said they are attracted to the union because of the strong benefits and its reputation as a unified family.
 
"You've got a lot more back, you've got a bunch of guys behind you instead of being on your own," said Joseph Bencivenga, of Bethpage. 

--Sheldon Dutes contributed to this story

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