by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer
LONG BEACH (GG) — Coffee: because heroes need backup too. That idea poured freely through Bankhouse Coffee on Thursday, January 22, as the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Coffee with First Responders. Where first responders, city leaders, business owners, and residents gathered over coffee and pastries to share appreciation face-to-face.
Bankhouse buzzed with conversation and familiar faces as police officers and firefighters took a rare moment to slow down.
Long Beach Mayor Tim Pierce spoke candidly about how Long Beach stands apart from surrounding communities. After hearing accounts of challenges faced across the Coast, he said the difference here is clear. “It’s because we’ve got such a good community and a good police force,” Pierce shared. “Y’all are the ones that reach out to the people of our town, and when you go out and meet your people, it really makes a big deal in our community.” He added, “I hear nothing but good things about our police and fire departments, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Long Beach Police Chief Billy Seal emphasized that safety in Long Beach is rooted in partnership. “It’s not just us,” he said. “It’s the community working with us to keep our town safe. It feels more like family here.”
With Mardi Gras season approaching and long days ahead, the morning served as a reminder that in the city of Long Beach, support is always on the menu.
(Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette)
