'Your Business' Is Their Business: Long Beach Heroes

LONG BEACH, NY — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. Together with Ring, we’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Johanna Mathieson-Ellmer, who nominated Long Beach's wastewater management plant operators.

Name: Wastewater Management plant operators for the City of Long Beach
Home town: Long Beach
Hero's job: Other
If other, job: This team operates 24/7 and manages the critical processing of the city's wastewater, thereby ensuring the health and safety of its residents.
Reason for recognition: Like healthcare professionals and hospitals, these workers operate 24/7 often at great risk to their own health from exposure to hazardous and infectious wastes. They have all been working full time through the pandemic.
One thing to know: Sadly, they are often overlooked because no one wants to think about who's taking care of "your business" every time you flush, take a shower, wash dishes, etc. These are licensed professionals who deserve a show of gratitude and recognition!