Meet Ethen Hazelton and Daniel Romero, who have been recognized as the Clean and Safe Team Employees of the Quarter. They were recently celebrated during a wonderful luncheon at Modica’s Deli for their abilities to make a difference on Downtown streets — even saving lives!
Clean and Safe Team Employees of the Quarter luncheon at Modica’s
“Safe Team Member Daniel Romero is fresh out of his 90-day introductory period and he’s already wowing us,” said Sara Payne, Operations Manager for Block by Block, the company contracted by the DTLB Alliance to manage the Teams. “He’s making himself available, he’s flexible, and he has amazing attention to detail. He was there when a double overdose happened in front of the Block by Block office a few weeks ago. He kept his cool, got us involved, and we were able to save two lives that way.”
Safe Team Member Daniel Romero receiving his Employee of The Quarter award
Romero, who grew up in Long Beach, now commutes from Azusa, where he lives with his family. Prior to his hiring by the Clean and Safe Team, he completed six months of training at a security academy. That knowledge came in handy the day he happened upon two unhoused individuals in severe distress. “Two people overdosed right outside the Block by Block office,” he explained. “One of them was unconscious. His friend told me they did some illicit drugs and didn’t know if they were laced with anything.”
After calling 9-1-1, Romero contacted his Ops team for assistance. When the paramedics arrived and were administering aid to the unconscious person, the friend also started overdosing. They both lived, thanks in large part to Romero’s quick and decisive actions.
Ethen Hazelton, who has worked full-time on the Clean Team for seven years, also received high praise from Payne. “Ethen is one of our jacks-of-all-trades,” she said. “That comes with all those years of experience. From special projects to pressure washing, Ethen is very helpful. On weekends where there wasn’t a manager first thing on duty, Ethan stepped up and led the team. We really appreciate everything he offers.”
Clean Team Member Ethen Hazelton receiving his Employee of The Quarter award
Born in San Pedro, Hazelton ended up in Long Beach 12 years ago. He’s a Downtown resident, and he loves it. “I don’t want to live anywhere else! There’s a lot of variety from morning ’til night. My girlfriend and I love The Pike and having picnics over at the lighthouse. We will probably watch the fireworks from there on July 4th,” he said.
You can see Hazelton, Romero, and their colleagues daily, putting out their best efforts to keep Downtown streets clean, safe, and welcoming. Don’t be shy about extending a kind word!