Community Corner

Waste, Recycling Collection Co. Owners Named Long Branch Heroes

We all know someone who's making a difference in this difficult time. Let's help share these amazing stories!

Dominick and James Mazza were nominated as Long Branch heroes.
Dominick and James Mazza were nominated as Long Branch heroes. (Courtesy of Brynn Mosello)

LONG BRANCH, NJ — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Brynn Mosello, who nominated Dominick and James Mazza.

Names of heroes: Dominick and James Mazza.

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Where the heroes live: Long Branch

Name of the person who nominated the heroes: Brynn Mosello

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Relationship to heroes: employee

Are the nominees considered "essential workers?" Yes.

What do they do for work? Waste and recycling collection.


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Why do you believe the nominees deserve to be honored? Dominick Mazza, alongside his cousin, James Mazza, are dedicated to the health and safety of their employees. Dominick himself has said, “During this process of flattening the curve, one thing has remained steady. Trash and recycling collection, especially residential which has increased in volume, has had little or no disruptions. Public works employees as well as private collection company employees should be thanked for their service. Thank you for keeping this essential process running smoothly so that households can continue being a safe environment while we wait out this storm.”

What's one thing you want everyone to know about your heroes? While Dominick remains humble and grateful to his staff, I believe he deserves a huge thank you as well. Dominick is definitely a hero for jumping to the rescue of his staff and customers, providing them with extra PPE, hand sanitizer, and face coverings.

James Mazza, throughout all of COVID-19, has put his staff first, prioritizing their safety and job security over all else. He has said his main concern is keeping his staff employed and safe despite health and safety challenges.

To James and Dominick Mazza and all employees at Mazza Recycling, thank you for all you do.

Do YOU have a hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

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