Long Beach News, CA Local News

Volunteer Center, based in Torrance, celebrates 60th anniversary

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 08:01:32 +0000

When Jon Phelps was looking for a new place to work, he wanted to find something that “wasn’t just a job,” he said — but was also something that would help “the community out.”

That’s how he landed at Volunteer Center, South Bay-Harbor-Long Beach, where he works as the organization’s program coordinator. The organization, which serves as the volunteer hub for hundreds of nonprofits, celebrated its 60th anniversary last week with a food drive-thru and a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to christen a recent remodel, which was hosted by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce.

Catherine Paez was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Jon Phelps poses with members of the National Charity League, South Bay Chapter, winners of the Volunteer Group of the Year Award, during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Jon Phelps poses with members of the National Charity League, South Bay Chapter, winners of the Volunteer Group of the Year Award, during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Josh Gezahegn, President and CEO of the Volunteer Center, speaks during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Josh Gezahegn, President and CEO of the Volunteer Center, speaks during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
The Volunteer Center in Torrance celebrates its 60th Anniversary of operation with a food drive and ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
The Volunteer Center in Torrance celebrates its 60th Anniversary of operation with a food drive and ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
The Volunteer Center in Torrance celebrates its 60th Anniversary of operation with a food drive and ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Torrance Mayor George Chen attends the celebration for the Volunteer Center’s 60th anniversary of operation and a ribbon cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Catherine Paez was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center in Torrance on Thursday, November, 9, 2023. (Photo by Axel Koester, Contributing Photographer)
Jim Whitman helps with the food drive during a 60th anniversary celebration for the Volunteer Center

Let’s Play Ball: Press-Telegram’s holiday ball drive for kids kicks off

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 07:00:47 +0000

Playing soccer is like “a magical adventure” to 11-year-old Samantha.

“I cherish every moment spent on the field with my friends,” she said. “We kick those balls with all our heart, making unforgettable memories.”

Samantha is just one of thousands of kids who annually benefit from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach’s athletic programs, keeping them off the streets by participating in healthy activities.

But for the clubs to keep doing so, they need athletic equipment — especially sports balls.

That’s why the Press-Telegram is once again kicking off the “Let’s Play Ball” campaign (pun intended) today, our sixth annual holiday partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach. The P-T, along with its sister paper, the Grunion Gazette, is asking readers to donate new balls and money for the clubs’ sports, fitness and recreation programs.

The goal is to provide 3,000 balls to the clubs by the campaign’s deadline on Dec 15.

“We’re excited about partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs again — and about helping to unleash our readers’ generosity once more,” Tom Bray, senior editor of the Press-Telegram and Grunion Gazette, said in a statement. “Thanks in advance for all our sponsors and all our donors.”

Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Long Beach clubs, thanked donors in advance for their contributions.

“This isn’t just about collecting balls,” he said. “It’s about collecting dreams, smiles and opportunities for the youth in our community. These contributions ensure that every child has a chance to experience the joy of sports and creation, shaping their lives in meaningful ways.

“Last year, our community rallied to provide over 2,800 balls,” Rodriguez added. “This year, we are aiming even higher, to 3,000 balls, knowing that reader contributions make a world of difference in our kids’ lives.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach annually serves more than 2,500 youngsters from ages 6 to 18 across 13 sites in neighborhoods in the western, northern and central areas of the city. The clubs also have expanded their programs to Long Beach City College to help students who are also parents.

The ball drive, Rodriguez said, not only gives clubs enough equipment so every kid has the opportunity to play sports, but it also introduces them to so many new and different sports and activities.

“Basketball, soccer, volleyball and other sports are more than activities at our clubs,” Rodriguez said. “They’re avenues for growth, learning and building lasting friendships. These donations, whether of cash or balls, ensure that our children have the equipment they need to excel in these experiences and flourish.”

The clubs, he said, offer free basketball, soccer, baseball and football leagues, uniforms included. But besides staffing and maintenance costs, there is also a cost to provide balls and athletic equipment to the kids.

“With so many club sites, keeping a storage of good balls available all the time is nearly impossible,” Rodriguez said. “The balls go flat or just wear out with use. We have to keep purchasing new balls every few months just to keep up.”

The clubs need a variety of balls and equipment: soccer balls, basketballs, softballs, baseballs, dodgeballs, volleyballs, kickballs, tether balls, tennis balls — and even items that aren’t balls at all. The latter group includes hockey pucks, badminton birdies, flag footfall flags, jump ropes, Frisbees and ball bumps.

You may drop off new sports balls at the following locations:

Big 5 Sporting Goods: 4780 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; and 5247 Lakewood Blvd., Lakewood, during store hours. Big 5 will once again provide 25% off any regularly priced sports ball folks buy to donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach’s main office, 3635 Long Beach Blvd., from 8 a.m. to 6 p. m. Monday to Friday.
First Bank: 6200 E. Pacific Coast Highway and 4040 Atlantic Ave., in Long Beach; and 5195 Lakewood Blvd. in Lakewood.
Phil Trani’s Restaurant, 3490 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach.
Boathouse on the Bay Restaurant, 190 N. Marina Drive, Long Beach.

If you want to donate money or purchase balls or other items off the clubs’ Amazon wish list, click on bgclub.org/Joy. For more information, email Kari Cho, vice president of marketing and development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, at karic@bgclublb.org, or call 562-595-5945.

Thank you in advance for helping kids like Samantha and for making a difference in her life — and hundreds of other youngsters this holiday season.

Wini Williams Carter, a Long Beach treasure, dies at 104

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 06:01:10 +0000

Wini Williams Carter, a Long Beach icon who lived a lifetime of volunteer service to the community, has died. She was 104.

Carter died at her home recently after months of hospice care for aging issues and an infection following eye surgery, according to her daughter, Renee Williams. A celebration of Carter’s life will take place at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 525 E. Seventh St.

“Wini was a Long Beach treasure,” Rep. Robert Garcia, former two-term Long Beach mayor, said Thursday, Nov. 9. “I’ve enjoyed celebrating birthdays with her and seeing her supporting our community. She was kind, caring and a true blessing to everyone she came in contact with. She will be greatly missed.”

The Rev. Antonio Gallardo, rector at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, said Carter is now with God.

“I have no doubt that Wini has already been received with God’s applause,” he said, “because of a life well-lived and always keeping up the faith.”

Carter’s daughter said she was inspired by her mother’s “exemplary life,” which, in addition to her volunteerism, included knitting hundreds of sweaters, shawls and hats for anyone in need. When she was 99 in 2018, she threw out the first pitch on Labor Day at Dodger Stadium for the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets. She was honored for her years of service to the community.

Naomi Rainey-Pierson, president of the Long Beach chapter of the NAACP, said Carter “lived an incredible life of generosity with all segments of our community. She was so well loved as a role model and a cherished icon.”

Wini Williams Carter at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. (Photo courtesy of St. Luke’s)
a recent photo of Wini Williams Carter (Photo Courtesy of St. Luke’s Church)
Wini Williams Carter on her 100th birthday. (Photo courtesy of St. Luke’s Church)
Press Telegram’s Amazing Women Awards Gala Wednesday, November 12, 2014, Lakewood, CA. Lifetime Achievement Honoree Wini Williams Carter, 95, speaks to the crowd as she is honored. Photo by Steve McCrank/Daily Breeze

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Carter, who died in mid-October, was also a modest and humble person.

When she received the Josephine Gumbiner Foundation award for her humanitarian service in 2003, she told Julie Bartolotto, president of the Historical Society of Long Beach, that she was surprised.

“It was quite a surprise,” she said, “because helping others is something I do naturally with no regard required.”

Carter’s daughter said her mother wrote her own obituary, with interesting details about her life. In her obituary, Carter tells how she was born as Winifred Matti on April 13, 1919, in Sommerville, Massachusetts, to Jamaican-born parents, Alexander and Lucy Dempster Mattis.

When she was 4, her father died and her mother moved the family, one boy and seven girls, to New York City. Tragically, her mother died six months later and the siblings grew up as orphans in foster homes.

While cleaning houses during the Great Depression, Carter completed high school, excelling in shorthand and typing. In the early months of World War II, she worked as a clerk typist at the newly opened Pentagon Building in Washington, D.C. She was eventually promoted to secretarial positions in city, state and federal civil service.

When Hawaii became a state in 1959, she transferred there and worked at Pearl Harbor. In 1964, she married Edwin Williams, a United Airlines employee who helped her overcome an intense fear of flying.

Her first flight in a plane from New York to Hawaii seemed terrifying for her. The lady and man on either side of her, she said, “still have my nail prints on their arms as a memento of my first flight.

“Needless to say,” Carter said, “I prayed the whole time.”

But after that first trip, she became a world traveler — including flying to every continent.

In 1970, she and her husband adopted Renee, a 2-year-old African child. She said it was love at first sight. Unfortunately, her husband died a few months later.

“My Hawaiian bubble had burst,” she said.

United Airlines offered her a job as a secretary working out of Los Angeles International Airport so she took that job, moved back to the mainland and bought a home in North Long Beach.

Two years later, she married Clarence Carter, who was a widower and longtime employee of McDonnell Douglas.

In 1981, she retired from United Airlines and began her years of volunteer work, starting with Meals on Wheels as a driver and visitor; with St. Mary Medical Center as a receptionist in its intensive care ward; and with the International Children’s Choir as a chaperone.

In her neighborhood, Carter took on the job of block captain and became involved with the Neighborhood Association at Houghton Park. She heard that the Long Beach Police Department was recruiting for its reserve police officers program so she began knocking on doors looking for recruits — but no one applied.

She discovered there was no age limit so, at 62, she applied herself. Carter completed the program and became a reserve police officer at 67, the oldest person to join the force.

During her training program, she met another trainee, Robert Luna, then only 18 who eventually became the Long Beach police chief and who is now the Los Angeles County sheriff.

Luna said that Carter has always been an inspiration to him. “Her lifelong journey was extremely challenging, but she never complained or blamed others,” he said. “She was passionate about serving her community. She focused on helping others until her last days. She was always smiling and that’s what I will miss the most, her beautiful smile.”

Bartolotto, of the Historical Society, said Carter followed the precept of “do it yourself” all her life.

“I encouraged people to be of service by doing it myself,” Carter said at the time.

She became a full time employee in the Police Department Records Division and was doing well, but her husband died in 1990 after a heart bypass operation.

“I was ready to give up then,” Carter said, “but my daughter encouraged me to take hold of my life and go back to school to get that long-desired college degree.”

So in 1991, she enrolled as a freshman at Cal State Dominguez Hills, at age 71, while her daughter was graduating.

“I had been out of school for 54 years, but I trudged along with the youngsters, majored in English and communications and, at age 78, received my Bachelor of Arts degree,” she said. “The Press-Telegram put my picture and story on the front page!”

Carter continued her volunteer work at the Senior Center in Houghton Park, as a Rotary Club Reader and with the Police Department’s Senior Police Partner program, helping seniors who had become victims of crime or abuse.

She also started a scholarship fund through the Black Police Employee’s Organization, awarding a scholarship in her name to a Long Beach student who had been accepted to college.

In 2014, she was appointed as a commissioner to the Long Beach Senior Citizens Advisory Commission. And you always could find her at St. Luke’s, helping feed those who were homeless and knitting apparel for whoever needed clothing.

For her years of humanitarian service, Carter received multiple awards. She had been honored by the Long Beach City Council, the NAACP, the Historical Society of Long Beach, the Josephine Gumbiner Foundation and the Long Beach City College Senior Center. She also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Press-Telegram as part of the newspaper’s Amazing Women program.

In 2009, she lost sight in her left eye after cataract surgery — but, she said, it didn’t deter her from helping others.

When she celebrated her 92nd birthday, she said, “You can squeeze a lot into 92 years, and I know there is still more waiting for me to accomplish.

“I thank God each day for allowing me to do what I do,” she added at the time, “and blessing me with the strength to do it.”

When she was honored on her 100th birthday and asked how she felt, she said, “pretty good.”

“I get up every morning and help out at the Senior Center,” Carter said then. “It keeps me occupied and makes me feel good.”

Gallardo, of St. Luke’s, expressed gratitude for Carter in a written statement on Friday, Nov. 10.

“We are so grateful for Wini’s lifetime of service to her country, her city and her church,” he said. “We are blessed to count her as one of Long Beach’s treasured women and as a matriarch of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.”

Carter, who died Oct. 14, is survived by her daughter, Renee Williams; a grandson, Omavi Littleton; a niece, Norma Crews; a great-niece, Nadine Asbery; and a great-grand nephew, Benny Zenno.

Shirley Wild: A Few Good Men Gala raises $500K for Ronald McDonald House

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 06:00:47 +0000

Excitement was in the air on Oct. 19 at the Long Beach Arena.

It was the Ninth Annual A Few Good Men Gala. The event is well-known for its fun, large attendance and fundraising — and the evening did not disappoint. The event, which benefits the Long Beach Ronald McDonald House, attracked 863 attendees and raised $500,000.

Gala guests enjoyed a red-carpet arrival with a champagne greeting, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. As they mixed and mingled, attendees had an opportunity to bid on numerous tempting items.

The program was highlighted by a first-hand, heart-warming narration from a family who has stayed at the Ronald McDonald House. The father of the patient related of how convenient it was to spend time with their baby during its stay at the hospital and how much that meant to both he and his wife. It was noted that it costs approximately $125 per family, per night, to stay, and families are never turned away for their inability to pay. Guests were invited to raise their bid numbers and donate.

The Fund-A-Family raised more than $150,000

Ronald McDonald House, photos from left: Honorees Peter Smith, Tony Azevedo, Gary Fields, Frank Newell, Sean Hitchcock, Rich Archbold, George L. Pla, Felton Williams Ph.D., Rob Bellevue, Ricardo Azevedo, Rick Adams, M.D., Robert N. Braun, M.D. (only leopard print shoe and jacket can be seen) (Photo by Shirley Wild, The Press-Telegram/SCNG)
Rich Archbold dressed in his best “newsboy” outfit with his granddaughters Carmen and Huitzil and their news carry-bags.(Photo by Shirley Wild, The Press-Telegram/SCNG)
Ronald McDonald House, photos from left: Gloria Deukmejian, Marlene Temple and Class of 2016 Richard Neri (Photo by Shirley Wild, The Press-Telegram/SCNG)
Precious Lamb Preschool Gala, photos from left: Parent spotlight Claudia Grimaldo and her son, Chair Randy Gordon and board member Linda Perry. (Photo by Shirley Wild, The Press-Telegram/SCNG)
Precious Lamb Preschool Gala, photos from left: Volunteers Diane Jensen, Julie Hamlin, Randy Gordon and board member Genevieve Brill Murphy. (Photo by Shirley Wild, The Press-Telegram/SCNG)

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The annual “A Few Good Men Gala,” presented by the Don Temple Family Charitable Foundation and the Molina/Rudy Family Fund, has a special theme: it honors esteemed gentlemen from the Long Beach community. This year’s “Few Good Men Gala” honorees were: Dr. Rick Adams, Press-Telegram columnist Rich Archbold, Ricardo Azevedo, Tony Azevedo, Rob Bellevue, Dr. Robert Braun, Gary Fields, Sean Hitchcock, Frank Newell, George Pla, Peter Smith and Felton Williams.

These esteemed men put on quite a show during the fun “fashion walk.” To applause, whoops and hollers, each honoree had the opportunity to strut down the runway dressed in fashions provided by Umberto’s and additional clothiers of their choice. Standouts included Archbold, who was dressed in his best “Newsie” knickers, tall socks, suspenders and newsboy cap, with a paper-delivery bag slung over his shoulder. His granddaughters joined him on stage, handing out mock newspapers to the guests and dancing to “Shout” by the Isley Brothers.

Seven-time vintage car racing champion Bellevue wore his Sparco Competition suit, made from the latest generation of synthetic fireproof fabrics. He passed out checkered flags and danced to “Hot Rod Lincoln” by Commander Cody. Frank Newell, attired in golfing knickers and old-time cap and vest, was joined on-stage by his “golf caddy” (also known as his wife, Margie, who was presented with a bouquet from the audience for her birthday that day). His finale was a golf ball expertly driven to an off-stage goal. Peter Smith and his two sons mesmerized the audience with their prowess at batting a tennis ball back and forth with precision.

With the audience in high spirits, auctioneer Randy Gordon and his helpers kept the audience eager to bid on priceless, uniquely selected experiences with each honoree.

Seen at the scene: Executive Director Cheryl Vargas, Co-chairs Rose Hamm Bothner and Debbie Uba, master of ceremonies Justin Rudd, Randy Gordon and Nancy Becker, Arlene and Dr. Mike Walter, Linda and Allan Rahn, Braden and Susan Phillips, Kevin Peterson, Marlene Temple, Gloria Deukmejian, Jane Close Conoley, Ginny Baxter, Don and Julie Knabe, Barbara Blackwell, Jean Smith, Mari Hooper, Jill Rosenberg, Kelly Ruggirello, Robert Gunsalus, Richard Neri.

Precious Lamb Preschool Gala

There were 350 supporters attending the 21st annual Precious Lamb Preschool Gala at the Westin on Nov. 2. The event raised $285,000 to support the children of Precious Lamb Preschool.

Gordon served as the auctioneer of the live auction and the Fund-a-Need program that’s raised more than $110,000.

Precious Lamb Preschool creates systemic and social change by interrupting the cycle of homelessness for young children, aged 18 months to 5 years, whose families are currently experiencing homelessness. The goal of the ministry is to develop school readiness through an emphasis on academic, social and emotional development with trauma-informed curriculum. Children receive a full-day education, while parents pursue employment, education, counseling and housing resources.

Gordon was honored for his fourth year as chair and his 10 years of contributions to the charity. It’s a cause he “believes in wholeheartedly,” as he is often heard saying. Other honorees were Garden Church, volunteers Diane Jensen and Julie Hamlin, staff member and chef Regina Yanagisawa, parent Claudia Grimaldo and student Sunshine Vazquez.

Incoming Chair Matt Cullen gave an update on the new and larger remodeled facility on Pacific Avenue, which will open by summer of 2024. The new location will allow twice as many children, including a new infant program. Major sponsors included the Patricia Lee Wang Foundation and the Neal Family Foundation.

Seen at the scene: Randy and Nancy Gordon, Matt and Judy Cullen, board members John Howard, Linda Perry, Genevieve Brill Murphy, Scott Bristol, Robyn Gordon Peterson, Tony Gales and Mike Tande. Also attending were John and Patricia Wang, Dennis and Chris Neal, Marlene Temple, and Sumer Temple.

News of Social events with charitable purposes may be sent to Shirley Wild at spwild@verizon.net or by fax to 562-594-9468. Please include a contact phone number. Send high-resolution jpeg photos, by attachment, to spwild@verizon.net and include group name and identification of individuals from left. Call Shirley at 562-594-9468 for more information.

Remembering Bob Crow: Long Beach Pride, community honor cofounder/LGBTQ icon at memorial procession

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 16:46:16 +0000

Board members of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, Jewels Long Beach, and Tony Crow stand for a photo at Harvey Milk Park, the end destination of the car procession where a memorial is being held. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Tony Crow, the widower of Bob Crow, (who was the last founding survivor of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach,) looks at a photo of Bob Crow that rides on top of the float in his memory. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
The PRIDE flag lays beautifully next to the flowers that are in honor of the memory of Bob Crow, the last surviving founder of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach founder. November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
The widower of Bob Crow, Tony Crow, sits at the Harvey Milk Plaza during his last husbands memorial. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees gather at the Harvey Milk Plaza in Long Beach in memory of Bob Crow, the last founder of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach. November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Tony Crow, who is the widower of Bob Crow, rides on the float in his husbands memory. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Tony Crow, the widower of Bob Crow, stands in the middle of the board members for The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, which is the organization that Bob Crow was a founder of. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
In memory of Bob Crow, the last surviving founder of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Jewels Long Beach greets the attendees at the Bob Crow memorial in Lonb Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Tony Crow is hugged by an attendee at the memorial of his late husband, Bob Crow. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees gather for the memorial of Bob Crow, taking place at the Harvey Milk Plaza in Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
The float in memory of Bob Crow, the last survivor of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach, travels down Broadway to the Harvey Milk Park where a ceremony will be held in his honor. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)
This photo rides on the top of the float the will travel down Broadway Blvd toward the Harvey Milk Promenade in honor of the memory of Bab Crow, the last survinving founder of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach. Long Beach, November 11, 2023. (Photo by Stephanie E’amato, Contributing Photographer)

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Long Beach Pride, which organizes the city’s annual Pride Parade & Festival, bid farewell to local LGBTQ legend Bob Crow — who was the nonprofit’s last surviving founder — with a procession and tribute ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Crow died in late September. He was 78.

The tribute kicked off on Saturday morning at Bixby Park, where Crow’s friends, family and community members gathered to take part in a procession featuring the Long Beach Pride float.

“We are indeed united by the common thread of humanity, of love, and the pursuit of a more inclusive and passionate world,” said Rev. Sunshine Daye, a local consultant, speaker, facilitator and author.

“And Bob’s life, of course, was a testament to the power of purpose, a purpose driven by love by acceptance, and by the belief that diversity is the cornerstone of a stronger, healthier society,” added Daye, a past Long Beach Pride grand marshal.

The procession traveled from the park down Broadway — a commercial corridor with a rich history as an LGBTQ cultural hub — toward Harvey Milk Promenade Park and Equity Plaza, where Crow’s farewell tribute took place.

Community members, LGBTQ activists, families and friends convened together to celebrate Crow’s life at Harvey Milk Promenade Park. Daye, Sunshine Daye, Vice Mayor Cindy Allen and Long Beach Pride President Tanya Martin spoke in tribute.

Rows of chairs were lined up in front of a stage filled with three large white and red flower bouquets and a Pride flag poised above Crow’s photo.

“He would always advocate behind the scenes eventually getting his way when it came to Pride,” Martin said. “Bobby (was) a man who never gave up on Long Beach Pride — (he) never gave up on his family.”

Crow died of Stage 4 lung cancer on Friday, Sept. 29, at his Long Beach home, which he shared with his husband, Tony Almeida-Crow. He had been diagnosed with the disease in 2018.

The news was a blow to the Long Beach community at-large, but even more so to the city’s LGBTQ community — to which Crow had dedicated the bulk of his life and advocacy.

Crow, along with Judith Doyle and Marylin Barlow, founded the nonprofit Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride Inc. — now Long Beach Pride — in 1983. It celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.

Just one year later, the city held its inaugural Pride Parade — which over the next four decades became one of the biggest and most popular LGBTQ celebrations in the nation.

Crow himself was actively involved in organizing the festival until last year, when he decided to finally take a break to tend to his health issues.

Bob Crow was born on Aug. 29, 1945, in Alabama. He lived there for much of his early life. But he didn’t come out until he moved to Mobile, which had more of a gay scene than any other city he’d lived in up until then.

Crow later moved to Long Beach and began working at a bar called The Executive Suite. That’s Long Beach Pride’s co-founding trio met and eventually secured funding from the bar’s owner to launch the inaugural Pride Parade.

That inaugural parade took place in 1984. About 600 people marched in the short parade, a mere preview of what the event would evolve into over the coming 40 years.

Pride has changed in more ways than just its name since then, though its significance to Long Beach’s LGBTQ community remains — especially in recent years, as the community has dealt with a dramatic spike in anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and legislation nationwide.

Crow’s activism for his community, though, wasn’t limited to organizing the Pride parade.

The Long Beach Pride nonprofit and parade formed during the height of the AIDS epidemic, and its creation

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Regarded widely as the biggest Veterans Day event in Los Angeles County, the parade held to its tradition of allowing only vets and their families ride in the 1.1-mile-long procession, which wound from Laurel Canyon and San Fernando Mission boulevards in Mission Hills, down Laurel Canyon Boulevard, and finally to Paxton Street at the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center in Pacoima.

Sen. Caroline Menjivar, D-Panorama City, served as the grand marshal.

Menjivar served in the Marine Corps from 2009-16, enlisting when she was 20, shortly after receiving an associate’s degree in fire technology from Los Angeles Valley College. She had hoped to be a Los Angeles Fire Department firefighter, but a hiring freeze prompted by the recession delayed that plan.

“When I was in high school, I was part of the Police Academy Magnet where our main teacher was a Marine veteran,” Menjivar, a Reseda High School graduate, said. “Each time we ran, we would run to a Marine Corps cadence. We would do mini-obstacle courses copied after the courses Marine recruits had to complete.

“He spoke about the camaraderie, the physicality needed to be a Marine, and the fact that they were known as the best. I wanted to be part of that, I wanted to be ready for the fire department when they started hiring again, and I loved being on teams, so I joined the Marine Corps.”

Menjivar was mainly stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego and served as a radio operator and platoon sergeant. She was briefly stationed at Camp Pendleton where she also worked as a military police officer.

Menjivar was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal and twice awarded the Marine Corps Reserve Medal.

What asked what she learned in the Corps, Menjivar responded, “It’s all relative! When I think about boot camp, when I think about all the things I did while in the Corps, nothing seems as hard as what I went through.

“Those 10-mile hikes, out in the field without showering, standing at attention under the sun, working out all the time, getting screamed out, sleepless nights, really early mornings, and ‘hurry up and wait,’ is the bar I compare everything to. I am very flexible, I can adjust on the spot, I can be in uncomfortable situations, I can work forever, I follow direction, I’m a team player and, overall, the leadership skills I’ve learned are invaluable.”

Menjivar called “wearing the uniform, especially the dress blues,” the highlight of her Marine Corps service.

“The camaraderie is what I miss the most, which is why I will light up each time I am around another Marine,” Menjivar said. “I loved being at the shooting range, shooting all types of weapons, throwing grenades, but my favorite was practicing with a an M249 light machine gun.

“It definitely didn’t hurt to be a sergeant in charge of about 50 Marines and leading their daily schedules, especially as a woman.”

Menjivar said her service in the Marine Corps “made me the person I am today.”

“The Marine Corps saved my life,” she said. “I was dealing with familial issues, trying to find a place to land, to feel part of something bigger and Marine Corps did just that.

“It was the best decision I could have made. I got to work with all types of people from across the country and now have friends in every corner of the states. Marines, no matter if we’ve never met will always be there for each other, because we are ‘Semper Fidelis.”‘

The popular parade, which draws thousands of Angelenos, was founded by Fred A. Flores, a U.S. Marine veteran.

“Veterans Day is about honoring our veterans and their family members for their sacrifices, their service and commitment to our country and community we live in

Photos: Long Beach hosts Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 14:34:31 +0000

97-year-old World War || Navy Seaman First Class Wayne Miller of Long Beach attends the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Nicholas Mueller, 7, plays on a military obstacle course at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Singing and dancing group the Satin Dolls salute during a performance at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Visitors check out vendor and resource booths at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Visitors check out vendor and resource booths at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Visitors check out vendor and resource booths at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
97-year-old World War || Navy veteran Wayne Miller of Long Beach visits a resource booth at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
An Army veteran visits a resource booth at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
6-year-old Johnny Ramirez Aguilar flashes a peace sign in the children’s play area at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Visitors take part in the festivities at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Veteran Army Specialist Thomas Estrada of Long Beach checks out a resource booth at the Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at Houghton Park in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)

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Local elected officials and community leaders paid tribute to Long Beach veterans and their families during the city’s annual Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Long Beach honored four individuals and organizations who’ve dedicated themselves to serving the city’s veteran population — which totals around 16,000 individuals and their families — during the free event.

Rev. Dr. O. Leon Wood Jr., who has served an educator, community activist and pastor at various Southern California institutions, including Long Beach City College, over the past 50 years, according to his LinkedIn profile, was named the 2023 Veterans Day Celebration Grand Marshall.

Two nonprofits, the April Parker Foundation and Veterans Stand Together, were designated as Outstanding Community Organizations on Saturday.

The April Parker Foundation provides veterans and other marginalized groups in Long Beach with access to health, economic development, and supportive service resources, according to its website.

Veterans Stand Together, meanwhile, is a national nonprofit with a branch in Southgate. Its mission, the organization’s website said, is to help veterans experiencing homelessness and substance use disorder, as well as other mental health conditions.

Long Beach also gave Juanita Wilson, a longtime volunteer who’s dedicated her time to serving veterans and unhoused folks, an Outstanding Volunteer award.

The free event takes place annually to honor folks who have served, or are currently serving, in the U.S. military. The celebration included a veterans recognition ceremony, live entertainment and more.

The event also featured a community resource fair, various live performances and historic aircraft flyovers.

2 women wounded in Long Beach shooting; 2 men sought

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 14:28:10 +0000

Two women were wounded after a shooting broke out between two men at a large gathering in Long Beach on Friday evening, Nov. 10, police said.

The group was gathered near Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and East Pacific Coast Highway around 8:30 p.m., the Long Beach Police Department said in a news release. At some point, a man opened fire toward the gathering, and a man in the group returned fire.

The two victims were struck by gunfire and taken to a hospital, police said.

Both men fled, and gang detectives responded to the scene. Descriptions of the shooters were not immediately available.

There were no other injuries reported.

Anyone with information about the shooting was asked to call the LBPD. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service contributed to this report.

Long Beach veteran was homeless. Then she found US Vets — and wants to bring veterans hope

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 07:31:22 +0000

Shanaide Robinson, a Long Beach resident, was just 21 years old when she enlisted in the U.S. Army.

At the time, she’d been working toward a college degree at Allen University in her hometown of Columbia, South Carolina.

But Robinson faced several challenges, and her college career ultimately did not work out.

“It was just a lot that was going on with me and I needed to do something different — I couldn’t do the college thing,” Robinson said. “Serving the country just felt right.”

But a health crisis forced the corporal out of the military. Her life fell apart and she eventually found herself homeless in Southern California.

That is, until she learned about U.S VETS, a national nonprofit that helps veterans struggling to find housing. With the nonprofit’s help, things finally began to change – for the better.

And on Veterans Day, Robinson’s story provides a message of hope to former service members who, like her, struggled during their transition to civilian life.

“You might feel like you’re alone,” Robinson said, “but there’s always somebody there that can help you and that will make you feel like you can do anything that you put your mind to.”

Shanaide Robinson, a U.S. Army veteran, shared her story of facing housing instability as a past veteran in Southern California. U.S.VETS supported her to find permanent housing and she is now residing in Long Beach. (Photo courtesy of U.SVETS)
Staff of U.S. VETS Long Beach chapter, a nonprofit organization that seeks to end veteran homelessness. (Photo courtesy of U.S. VETS)
Staff of U.S. VETS Long Beach chapter, a nonprofit organization that seeks to end veteran homelessness. (Photo courtesy of U.S. VETS)
Staff of U.S. VETS Long Beach chapter, a nonprofit organization that seeks to end veteran homelessness. (Photo courtesy of U.S. VETS)

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Robinson enlisted in the U.S Army in 2011 shortly after leaving college, where she was stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and was quickly deployed to Kuwait.

There, she worked as a transportation management coordinator responsible for the movement of soldiers overseas. She helped send about 2,500 soldiers back to America from Kuwait during her time there.

But her international tour was cut short when she was unexpectedly diagnosed with endometriosis — a severely painful condition in which tissue grows outside the uterus and can make pregnancy more difficult.

While running a 5K in Kuwait, Robinson began to feel an agonizing pain and wasn’t able to finish the race. A rushed visit to the hospital uncovered the underlying endometriosis diagnosis.

Seven surgeries later — including having her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed, which then led to a full hysterectomy — Robinson was forced to retire from the Army.

And not only did the disease cost Robinson her career, but it also cost the veteran her husband and her dreams of a family.

“I can’t have any kids. I don’t have any at all (and) that was a struggle,” Robinson said in a recent interview. “I was married. My husband left because of it (and) it was a lot.”

She returned home to South Carolina, where she spent the next 10 years working to recover from endometriosis and rebuild the life she’d envisioned for herself. But Robinson still grappled with many hardships — particularly the death of at least one close family member and her best friend.

A decade later, Robinson said, she wanted a fresh start — and decided to move to Southern California. She arrived with two packed bags — nothing more.

With no plan, no family and no connections to guide her journey, Robinson first headed to Corona

She lived in a $950 one-bedroom apartment with a roommate and worked at a rehabilitation facility.

But after a month, Robinson realized she couldn’t keep up with California’s high cost of living.

She wound up living without stable housing for a year. Robinson lived out of her car, she said, and occasionally couch-surfed at the homes of church acquaintances and generous strangers who offered her a place to stay.

“(People) would tell me places where I could park my car, Robinson said. “Sometimes they would just let me come and stay inside of that house.”

Robinson’s case is not an isolated case. Rather, it highlights the issues of housing insecurity and homelessness among the veteran population nationwide.

There are more than 40,000 unhoused veterans in the U.S., according to the National Association of American Veterans, despite decreasing trends of unsheltered veterans in the past years.

The California Association of Veterans Service has reported that about 71% of veterans experiencing homelessness are unsheltered statewide. Los Angeles County and city topped the list.

And Robinson was part of that statistic.

“It was mentally draining. I didn’t know what to do,” Robinson said. “I just felt like I was thrown to the wolves after a while.”

It wasn’t until a friend told her about the services of U.S VETS that things finally began to improve for Robinson.

She drove to the nonprofit’s Long Beach office, where she received temporary emergency housing while the organization worked with her and the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department to find her permanent housing.

“(For) the first two weeks, I was still a little uneasy. I stayed inside of my room,” Robinson said. “And then I started going to classes and started learning about all of the different benefits that (U.S VETS) had to offer.”

Robinson said she attended different classes aimed at helping her get back on her feet, with topics ranging from housing to anger management.

She was paired with a case manager who provided her with the support she needed to track appointments and obtain official documents, such as her birth certificate and California driver’s license.

Robinson also eventually received a housing voucher from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s VA Supportive Housing Program — which subsidizes housing costs for veterans.

“I got my voucher after about two months of being (at U.S. VETS), and (started) looking for places that would take (my) voucher,” Robinson said. “I actually found a place that I got approved for.

“That’s when I moved into my place,” she added, “and (eventually) I started school.”

Robinson now lives in Long Beach and is a second-year psychology student at Long Beach City College.

She dreams of studying at Cal State Long Beach, with a concentration in childhood psychology, so she can work as a high school counselor.

Robinson’s fondness for high school students stems from the knowledge that students at that age are still continuing to develop their own identity — a tough journey she knows all too well.

Robinson said she wants to help others experiencing similar situations find comfort — even if she, herself, doesn’t have everything figured out.

“I choose every day to smile (and) laugh,” Robinson said. “When I walk into a room, I want everybody to feel my energy (and) feel like, you know, I got through this.

“I always want to let everybody know that I’ve been through a lot,” she added, “but I’m still here and I’m still working on myself and working on everything.”

Rich Archbold: Veteran at Long Beach VA remains optimistic despite quadriplegia

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 06:01:27 +0000

U.S. Army veteran Christopher Lee Patterson, at 37 years old, has lost the use of his arms and legs.

He cannot breathe by himself and he needs a ventilator and around-the-clock care to survive. But despite these overwhelming disabilities, caused by two tragic accidents in the United States and a bomb explosion while he was serving in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, Patterson has not lost his optimism and hope for the future.

“I’m not angry or bitter at what’s happened to me,” he said this weekend from his bed at the Long Beach Veterans Affairs Spinal Cord Center, where he has been living with quadriplegia for the past five years.

“It definitely sucks sometimes and the pain never really goes away,” he said, “but I try to focus on stuff I want to do and dreams I have.”

Above his head is a bank of screens keeping him in touch with the world. He controls a specially equipped overhead computer by blinking his eyes. He controls a television with a special remote.

His eyes lit up when two of his aunts, Cathleen Koch and Nancy Carriaga, who helped raise him when he was growing up, flew in from Washington recently to spend time with him. The aunts talk to him on the phone a lot, but they had not seen him in person for three years because of the coronavirus pandemic.

U.S. Army veteran Christopher Lee Patterson while he was serving in Afghanistan. (Photo courtesy of Long Beach Fisher House)
Army veteran Chris Patterson chats with Press-Telegram columnist Rich Archbold taking notes during an interview on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson smiles in his hospital room on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson smiles in his hospital room on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Chris Patterson types out words on a keyboard by aiming his pupils at an overhead computer monitor in his hospital room on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson spends time in his hospital room with two aunts who flew in from Washington — Nancy Carriaga, left, and Cathleen Koch, on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson smiles in his hospital room on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Quadraplegic Chris Patterson moves his pupils to transcribe words on a computer monitor set up in his hospital room on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson watches his beloved Dallas Cowboys play a football game on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Elizabeth Lucas holds the two Purple Hearts her late husband, Campbell (Sandy) Lucas, received during World War II. (Photo courtesy of Long Beach Fisher House)
Fisher House Southern California Executive Director Linda Rahn, left, and longtime supporter Elizabeth Lucas visit the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson looks at greeting cards designed by longtime Fisher House supporter Elizabeth Lucas on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
From left, two aunts visiting quadriplegic Army veteran Chris Patterson — Nancy Carriaga and Cathleen Koch of Washington, are hosted by longtime Fisher House supporter Elizabeth Lucas and Executive Director Linda Rahn on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in front of the Fisher House, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson gets a visit from Linda Rahn and Elizabeth Lucas of the Fisher House and one of Chris’s aunts Cathleen Koch, right, on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Center in Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Army veteran Chris Patterson is visited by two aunts who flew in from Washington — Cathleen Koch, left, and Nancy Carriaga, on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the the Dr. Ernest Bors Spinal Cord Injury Center, part of the VA Medical Cente

Second-ever case of local dengue virus reported in Southern California

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 03:51:12 +0000

Long Beach health officials confirmed the city’s first case of locally-acquired dengue feve r on Wednesday.

The virus is a mosquito-borne disease that is typically connected to those who have traveled outside of the country.

Long Beach’s case marks the state’s second locally-acquired case without travel. The first-ever case was confirmed in October 2023 after a Pasadena resident contracted it and was hospitalized.

Both the Long Beach and Pasadena residents had no history of traveling to a region where dengue is common, officials said. Both patients have since recovered and no other suspected cases have been identified, health officials said.

Dengue is a disease caused by a virus that spreads through mosquito bites, according to the L.A. County Department of Health.

“When a mosquito bites someone with dengue virus in their blood, that mosquito can then spread the virus to others,” city officials said.

Most people who are infected with the dengue virus have no symptoms, but about 1 in 4 infected people will experience symptoms that may include:

-High fever
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Rash
-Aches and pains to the eyes, joints or bones

Symptoms typically last two to seven days and most people recover within two weeks. While some people may experience severe illness, fatalities from dengue are rare, city officials note.

Although there are no specific medications for the disease, healthcare providers can recommend treatments for recovery including fluids, rest, and medication for pain or fever.

Aedes mosquitos are most active during the day and in well-lit areas at nighttime and only need a small amount of water to breed.

Tips to avoid mosquito bites and to reduce mosquito populations include:

-Use a mosquito repellent with DEET, IR3535, picaridin or products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (do not use oil of lemon eucalyptus on children younger than 3 years old).
-Wear loosely fitted, long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
-Eliminate standing water around clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs, and anything that holds water for over a week; Aedes mosquitos can breed in a very small amount of water, including a bottle cap.
-Keep weeds, vines, hedges and grass trimmed; adult mosquitos like to rest in vegetation.
-Change water in pet dishes, birdbaths and other small containers weekly.
-Ensure that swimming pools, spas and ponds are properly maintained.
-Report neglected swimming pools in your neighborhood to the Health Department’s Vector Control Program.

“We are taking many steps to prevent mosquito-borne infections in Long Beach,” said Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis. “Outreach teams are visiting the neighborhood where dengue was identified to provide information on mosquito bite prevention and ways to control mosquito breeding around the home. Health Department staff continue to trap and test mosquitoes in nearby areas to look for infected mosquitoes and are intensifying efforts to reduce breeding and control mosquito populations.”

"The health and well-being of the community is our most important priority,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We are working closely with health officials to do everything we can to prevent more cases. We ask that everyone do their part by removing any standing water on their property to help us control the mosquitoes in our neighborhoods."

Long Beach sex assault survivor angered by DA's decision

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 01:07:48 +0000

A woman who was sexually assaulted by a homeless man in Long Beach is distraught at county prosecutors' decision to not file felony charges against the suspect.

Following the man's arrest, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office only filed a misdemeanor charge, which the victim said was a stark disparity from the severe nature of the crime.

The attack happened on Oct. 20 at 2:15 p.m. in front of Village Market on the 140 block of Linden Avenue.

Surveillance video shows the victim, Rebekah Pederson, walking on a sidewalk near Linden and Broadway when the suspect, Miguel Avila, 30, suddenly stands up, exposes himself and grabs her from behind.

She falls onto the ground as Avila appears to pull up her skirt and thrust himself against her. An older man sitting nearby is seen getting up and pepper spraying the suspect. Avila then runs away from the scene.

“Nobody in their right mind looked at that video and thought anything less than attempted rape,” Pedersen said.

Miguel Avila, 30, is seen on video sexually assaulting a woman in Long Beach.
Miguel Avila, 30, is seen on video assaulting a woman in Long Beach.
Surveillance video shows the victim walking alone when her attacker, who was sitting on the sidewalk, stands up, exposes himself, and grabs the woman from behind. Oct. 20, 2023.
Miguel Avila, 30, is seen on video assaulting a woman in Long Beach.

According to authorities, Avila is homeless. He was eventually arrested not far from where the assault happened. Authorities charged Avila with sexual battery, a misdemeanor, which they claim was the most serious charge they could bring as the city charter doesn’t allow the DA’s office to file felonies.

Pedersen claimed the Long Beach Police Department presented the case to the DA’s office for felony consideration, but they declined.

Long Beach city prosecutors have now sent a letter to the DA urging them to reconsider.

“The reason we brought this case back to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is that we think it’s very serious conduct,” said Doug Haubert, a Long Beach City Prosecutor. “At the time of the case, we thought it was felony level but as we researched it and investigated it even further, now we’re even more convinced it’s felony level and we want the L.A. District Attorney’s Office to take another look at it to bring felony charges.”

Moving forward, Pedersen said she's worried for other women in the area and that she will personally be taking precautions from now on.

"Every woman needs to be armed with something to protect themselves and take defense classes," she said. "That's what I'm about to start doing."

Some residents said the incident serves as an example of the growing violence in downtown Long Beach — a problem some say has impacted the safety of local businesses as residents remain afraid to venture out at night.

“The police call this area ‘The Beast,’” said Jason Greenleaf, a Long Beach resident. “They say they don’t have enough officers to patrol the area and they tell us not to do anything. We’re in a predicament.”

As far as the DA office's initial refusal to consider felony charges, Pedersen said she is distraught.

“I’m angry,” she said. “The fact that this has gotten so much attention is really good because I am a person who doesn’t mind speaking out. I don’t want to be terrified to walk around because I’m not a person who lives in fear. I don’t want it to come to that point, so I want to speak out so maybe some things can change.”

The DA’s office later confirmed to KTLA that based on additional information and a new witness, the case will be reviewed again, saying in a statement:

“We received a correspondence from the Long Beach City Attorney sharing his opinion on the matter. The case was carefully reviewed previously; however, based on additional information, the head deputy of our Sex Crimes Division will review the evidence and interview a witness that was located AFTER our initial decision was made to determine whether any felony charges are provable.”

Avila has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is being held on $75,000 bail. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for Nov. 8.

“We do believe that exposure to greater time in jail or prison is appropriate for the facts of this case,” Haubert said.

Hospitals seek help identifying 3 patients found in Southern California

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 02:58:16 +0000

Hospital staff needs the public's help to identify three male patients found across Southern California.

All three men were found near public roads or areas and remain hospitalized at Dignity Health facilities. They were all found without personal items or documentation of their identity.

The first patient was discovered on Oct. 10. He was found lying on the sidewalk in front of the Long Beach Library located at 101 Pacific Avenue.

Staff described him as a Hispanic man in his mid to late 50s, about 5 feet 7 inches tall and around 137 pounds. He has brown eyes and dark-colored hair with some graying. His left hand has a tattoo featuring a circle with the letter “JJ.” The second “J” is reversed, staff said.

Male patient found lying on the sidewalk in front of the Long Beach Library on Oct. 10, 2023. (Dignity Health)

The second patient was discovered on Oct. 12. He was found inside a tent on the L.A. riverbed in Long Beach. A good Samaritan brought the man to a Dignity Health hospital where he still remains.

He is described as a Hispanic man around 50-55 years old. He stands about 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 210 pounds. He has brown eyes and salt-and-pepper brown hair.

Male patient found lying on the L.A. riverbed in Long Beach on Oct. 12, 2023. (Dignity Health)

The third patient was found on Oct. 22 at around 2:10 a.m. He was discovered on a sidewalk off N. Sierra Way and E. 5th Street in San Bernardino.

He is described as a Black man around 40 years old. He stands about 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 146 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

Male patient found lying on a San Bernardino sidewalk on Oct. 22, 2023. (Dignity Health)

Anyone who recognizes these men or has additional information about their cases is asked to call 562-491-9381 for the Long Beach patients and 909-883-8711 Ext. 23420 for the San Bernardino patient.

Woman sexually assaulted by homeless man in Long Beach speaks out

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 00:44:07 +0000

The mayor of Long Beach took to social media on Tuesday to address the disturbing sexual assault of a woman by a transient that was captured on camera.

“This incident is absolutely unacceptable,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a video update streamed on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Every resident deserves to feel safe as they walk through our community.”

The attack occurred on the afternoon of Oct. 20 in the 140 block of Linden Avenue, in front of Village Market.

Surveillance video shows the victim walking alone when her attacker, who was sitting on the sidewalk, stands up, exposes himself, and grabs her from behind. She falls to the ground as the man pulls up her skirt and thrusts himself against her.

Surveillance video shows the victim walking alone when her attacker, who was sitting on the sidewalk, stands up, exposes himself, and grabs the woman from behind. Oct. 20, 2023.
Surveillance video shows the victim walking alone when her attacker, who was sitting on the sidewalk, stands up, exposes himself, and grabs the woman from behind. Oct. 20, 2023.
Surveillance video shows the victim walking alone when her attacker, who was sitting on the sidewalk, stands up, exposes himself, and grabs the woman from behind. Oct. 20, 2023.
Rebekah Pedersen spoke with KTLA about the homeless man who sexually assaulted her in an incident captured on video. Oct. 23, 2023.

An older man who was sitting at a table on the sidewalk intervenes and pepper sprays the attacker, who then runs away, the video shows.

The victim, Rebekah Pedersen, bravely chose to speak publicly about the attack with KTLA’s Chris Wolfe.

“In that moment, I had no idea [what was happening],” she said. “My first thought was, ‘Is this someone I know playing a joke on me? Then, in a matter of seconds, I was like ‘Oh no. He’s not letting me go.’ So I turned really quick and fell to the ground.”

While traumatized and horrified by the attack, Pedersen also acknowledges the incident could have turned out much worse.

“I’m just lucky that it happened in daylight and not at night because then I probably would have been raped,” she said.

The suspect, 30-year-old Miguel Avila, was arrested not far from the scene. He has been charged with sexual battery and was being held on $1,000 bail. After his arraignment, the 30-year-old's bail was increased to $75,000.

The attack is the most visible and recent example of what residents say is a deteriorating situation in downtown Long Beach caused by drug-addicted and violent transients.

In his social media message, Mayor Richardson said he is working with law enforcement to improve safety and will also ask Los Angeles County for additional resources.

“The reality is the substance abuse challenges, the mental health challenges, are affecting downtowns across our region. That’s why I’ll be asking for enhanced focus on our downtown.”

L.A. County residents robbed 10 pharmacies at gunpoint in 6-week span, DOJ says

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 19:01:50 +0000

Three Los Angeles County residents are facing decades in prison after the U.S. Department of Justice charged them in connection with 10 pharmacy robberies this summer.

Makai Yusef Sanders and Kenyatta Kamar Jones of Hawthorne and Diavion Deshawna Mouton of Carson, all 22 years old, were charged earlier this month with Hobbs Act robbery (indicating it affected interstate or foreign commerce) and using a firearm during a violent crime, the DOJ said in a news release.

Federal authorities allege the trio targeted Rite Aid and Walgreens stores between Aug. 9 and Sept. 19, striking in Long Beach, Bellflower, South Los Angeles, Pasadena, Whittier, Lakewood, Monterey Park, Burbank and Glendale.

"Mouton allegedly served as the driver while Sanders and Jones allegedly robbed the stores," the release said.

The robberies typically occurred about an hour before closing, and the robbers used guns while stealing cellphones and money from the stores' offices, authorities said, adding that in some cases, they "assault[ed] and injur[ed] their victims."

The DOJ highlighted the Sept. 19 robbery of a Walgreens in Glendale in particular.

That day, "two armed men believed to be Sanders and Jones – one wearing a black balaclava mask and the other wearing a black mask with a red logo – robbed a Walgreens store in Glendale," the release said. "The suspects robbed a store customer who was at a register attempting to purchase some items, held the victim at gunpoint, and stole the victim’s iPhone."

They also robbed a store employee, who "in fear for her life" took one of the robbers to the safe at the back of the store before she "noticed the robber was distracted talking to the other robber," locked herself in the office and called 911, officials said.

Though the robbers didn't get into the safe, they made off with four iPhones and about $776 from the cash registers before fleeing in a white Honda Civic that had been booked through a carsharing company, investigators said.

The three were arrested a week later after police used phone and GPS data to track them.

"At the time of their arrests, Jones and Sanders allegedly possessed handguns consistent with the firearms used in the Walgreens robbery," the release said. "Law enforcement also found clothing – including the black mask with a red logo – consistent with what one of the suspects wore during that robbery."

The three are now in federal custody and were due to appear in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday.

If convicted of both charges, each person could be sentenced to 20 years in federal prison on the robbery charge and up to life in prison on the gun charge.

Police seek shooter in fatal park attack in Long Beach

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 18:32:42 +0000

A man was fatally shot at 14th Street Park in Long Beach Sunday afternoon, and police are asking anyone who was at the park to come forward and help them identify the shooter.

The man, 33-year-old Thomas Ferguson of Fontana, was at the park at about 2:30 p.m. when he was shot multiple times in the upper body, the Long Beach Police Department said in a news release.

Ferguson was found on the ground near 14th Street and Palmer Court, and he succumbed to his wounds after being transported to a local hospital.

The shooter fled before officials arrived, and the investigation is ongoing.

"Detectives believe there were multiple people in or near 14th Street Park when the shooting occurred and are seeking the public’s assistance for any additional information," the release said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detectives Jesus Espinoza or Alfredo Chairez at 562-570-7244.

Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting lacrimestoppers.org.

Videos show teens terrorizing residents of Long Beach apartment complex

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 13:32:09 +0000

Residents of the upscale Camden Harbor View Apartments in Long Beach say they are fed up with relentless crime, run-ins with the homeless, and now juvenile delinquents.

“These kids don’t care. They are looking for trouble,” one tenant, Kimberly, told KTLA. “One hit me with a skateboard.”

Security and cell phone cameras have captured some of the incidents, including one where teens attacked a man who was simply walking in the area.

“They were stalking him and he didn’t want to fight back. He was just trying to get them to stop. He didn’t want to hurt kids,” said Kimberly.

Surveillance cameras have captured some of the incidents, including one where teens assaulted a man who was simply walking in the area. October 2023.

Another video shows a teen "donkey kick" an apartment door and then run away with his friends.

Tenants say they're dealing with a constant cycle of trouble.

In early September, several cars were set on fire by a serial arsonist. People keep getting attacked, and residents say management is doing nothing about it.

“They have a courtesy patrol that’s a joke,” said Susan Herman, who told us she was attacked at the apartment complex’s pool. “Cars stolen, cars vandalized, people beat up … what does it take? We have amenities here that we’re too afraid to use because you don’t know what you’re going to find. Those teenagers are just out of control,”

Kimberly believes armed guards are the only solution.

“We need somebody who actually cares. You have to take back your property.”

KTLA reached out to Long Beach Police and the apartment complex's management on Sunday but did not get a response. Management previously told us they increased security after the arson attacks.

Residents plan to take their complaints to Long Beach City Hall.

Beaches Closed To Swimmers In Long Beach After LA River Sewage Spill In Compton

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 21:46:55 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Swimming areas off Long Beach were temporarily closed Tuesday following a sewage spill into the Los Angeles River.

About 12,000 gallons of sewage was discharged into the L.A. River Monday, prompting the closure of swimming areas west of Belmont Pier in Long Beach.

“The sewage spill occurred in the City of Compton due to a grease blockage causing sewage to overflow from a manhole,” the Long Beach Health Department tweeted.

Long Beach has about seven miles of public beach, and city officials say its Recreational Water Quality health inspection team is monitoring water quality along the affected beach sites until they comply with state water quality standards. Water samples are already collected and routinely tested at Long Beach’s public beaches to monitor bacterial levels.

For more information about Long Beach recreational beach water quality, call (562) 570-4199 or visit longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

Long Beach Police Investigating Fatal Shooting On Saturday

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 00:18:17 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — A fatal shooting that occurred in Long Beach on Saturday afternoon has prompted an investigation from Long Beach Police Department homicide detectives.

Officers were dispatched to the area near Long Beach Boulevard and East 14th Street just after 2 p.m. on Saturday in response to reports of a shooting.

As authorities investigated the fatal shooting, the area was said to be indefinitely closed off to the public.

There were no further details available on suspect, motive or the victim’s identity.

Long Beach Man Wounded In Possible Gang Shooting

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 03:31:36 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Long Beach Police Department gang detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred on Thursday evening.

They were called to the scene of a car crash on Cherry Avenue at around 7 p.m. on Thursday.

When they arrived, they found the man, suffering from a gunshot wound in his car. He was taken to a nearby hospital and is said to be in stable condition.

According to their incident report, the suspect that the man was shot while in his vehicle on East Fourth Street, he then drove away from the initial scene of the incident, when he crashed into another parked vehicle on Cherry Ave.

They are looking for two suspects involved in the shooting, which they believe may be gang related. There was no information on the suspects readily available.

Citing Backlog Progress, Ports Again Delay Fines For Idling Containers

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 21:47:34 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach announced Friday that implementation of a fee on companies whose import containers linger at marine terminals will be delayed again, with it now potentially taking effect, if necessary, next Friday.

The Container Dwell Fee has been delayed numerous times due to progress in reducing the number of containers at the terminals — with the ports reporting Friday a 67% combined decline in aging cargo on the docks since the fee was announced.

Over the next week, port officials will monitor and reassess the fee’s implementation.

The fee was also delayed on Nov. 22 and 29; Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27; and Jan. 3, 10, 14 and 21.

The fee is one of several efforts aimed at speeding the processing of cargo at the San Pedro Port Complex to eliminate a backlog of ships trying to deliver merchandise. Port of Los Angeles officials said when the policy was announced that about 40% of import containers were idling at terminals for at least nine days.

Harbor commissions for both Long Beach and Los Angeles unanimously approved the policy on Oct. 29, to be in effect for 90 days. The Harbor Commission on Jan. 13 voted 5-0 to extend the program through April 29.

“Merely announcing the fee reduced the number of those idling containers by more than 60%. The results have been phenomenal and I’m happy to say we have not implemented the fee,” Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka said during his State of the Port speech on Jan. 20.

The fines, if implemented, will begin at $100 per container, increasing by $100 per container each day. Containers set to be transported by truck and rail will incur fines if they remain at the port for nine days or more.

Fees collected from the policy will be reinvested into programs that aim to enhance efficiency, accelerate cargo velocity and address congestion impacts.

The policy to implement fees was developed in coordination with the Biden-Harris Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Port of Long Beach and supply chain stakeholders.

On Dec. 30, the Port of Los Angeles announced an additional planned fee on carriers with empty containers that linger for at least nine days on marine terminals. That fee needs to be approved by the Los Angeles Harbor Commission.

Long Beach Man Arrested, Suspect In Multiple Sexual Batteries

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 04:31:55 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — On Thursday, Long Beach police arrested a 33-year-old man suspected of at least eight sexual batteries.

Officers from the Long Beach Police Department arrested Christopher Royal Starr in his home in the 1600 block of East First Street. According to LBPD, he was booked on three counts of sexual battery which allegedly occurred between May and September 2021.

(Credit: LBPD)

“Generally, the incidents involved female adult victims and occurred while the victims were walking alone,” LBPD said.

All batteries took place within two miles of each other with the first instance reportedly occurring at 5:38 p.m. on May 30 near Redondo Avenue and Anaheim Street. Starr is reportedly responsible for seven more batteries occurring on June 29 near Third Street and Cherry Avenue, two more on Aug. 16 near Temple Avenue and Fourth Street, the other on Orizaba Avenue and Fourth Street, one on Aug. 30 near Alamitos Avenue and East Broadway, Sept. 3 near Alamitos Avenue and Third Street, Sept. 12 near Alamitos Avenue and Second Street, and finally on Friday, Jan. 21 near Redondo Avenue and Fourth Street.

“During several of the incidents, it was reported that the suspect appeared to be jogging, and as he passed the victim, he would commit a sexual batter and flee from the area on foot,” LBPD said.

Starr is being held on a $100,000 bail.

Queen Mary Closed To The Public For Critical Repairs

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 23:06:19 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — The Queen Mary was closed to the public this week so Long Beach city officials could begin critical repairs to the iconic cruise ship.

The City of Long Beach, which regained control of the Queen Mary last summer, will begin a $5 million repair and rehabilitation project to start in February. The ship will remain closed to the public while repair work is being done, but will still be available for filming.

“Addressing these critical repairs has been a long time coming and an effort that will greatly benefit the structural safety and historical preservation of the Queen Mary,” Long Beach City Councilwoman Mary Zendejas said in a statement.

The work will include the removal of 13 deteriorated lifeboats that are original to the ship. Officials say the lifeboats exert stress on the Queen Mary’s side shell and has created severe cracks in the support system, and removing them will enhance the structural stability of the ship.

The lifeboats will not be discarded, but will instead be temporarily stored while the city gauges interest from museums and other non-profits interested in preserving them.

Another critical repair will be the installation of new permanent bilge pumps to discharge water intrusion in an emergency, improvements to the bulkhead, an emergency generator, and a water intrusion warning system. City officials say the project is the result of decades of deferred maintenance by the ship’s former operators, Urban Commons Queensway LLC.

Earlier this month, the city had already made repairs to relight one of the ship’s exhaust funnels, a skyline focal point that is illuminated by several spotlights on the deck, and to the surrounding circuits, electrical timeclock, and lighting fixtures to ensure the safety of the funnel’s electrical system’s and proper functionality of the lights.

The Queen Mary is expected to reopen to the public later this year.

Suspect Arrested In Connection With Long Beach Bar Shooting

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 19:15:22 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Long Beach Police Department announced that they arrested the gunman wanted in connection with a shooting that occurred in Long Beach on Jan. 16.

The incident occurred at around 10:15 p.m. that Sunday, when authorities reported to the business were a shooting was reported to have taken place. When they arrived, they found a man, 39-year old James Lopez, of Bell suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. He was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

On Friday, authorities arrested Salvador Rivera, 33-years-old, of Wilmington, in connection with the murder. He was arrested around 2:30 p.m., during a routine traffic stop near the intersection of Riverside Drive and Roswell Avenue in Chino.

He is being held at Long Beach County Jail on $2 million bail.

Incident reports detailed that Lopez, the victim, was an employee at the business on Willow Street where Rivera was on Jan. 16, when a verbal dispute broke out between the two of them that escalated into the shooting. Witnesses reported that Rivera was seen fleeing from the store on foot.

Authorities are still seeking additional information on the incident, and are asking anyone who can offer assistance to call Long Beach Police homicide detectives at (562) 570-7244.

One Wounded In Towne Center Shooting On Saturday

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 04:20:34 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — A man was wounded in a shooting that occurred in the Towne Center shopping center in Long Beach on Saturday.

The shooting occurred just after 4:30 p.m. on Carson Boulevard.

According to an incident report from Long Beach Police Department, a 28-year-old man was wounded via an unknown amount of gunshot wounds.

He was transported to a nearby medical facility with non-life-threatening wounds to his upper body. His identity was not disclosed.

At the time of the report, authorities had no information on a suspect involved in the shooting, however they did claim to book several pieces of evidence from the scene, including shell casings.

Long Beach Pedestrian Struck By 2 Cars Pronounced Dead At Scene

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 00:50:39 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A man was fatally struck by two vehicles in Long Beach and the motorists inside those vehicles stayed at the scene to cooperate with police, authorities said Saturday.

Distracted driving, speeding and impairment do not appear to be factors in the crashes, the Long Beach Police Department reported.

Officers were dispatched at about 5:50 p.m. Friday to the area of Bellflower Boulevard and Beach Drive. A 2002 Acura sedan going southbound on Bellflower Boulevard struck the pedestrian, who was trying to cross Bellflower outside a crosswalk.

Immediately after being struck by the Acura, the pedestrian was then struck by a 2005 Honda Pilot. Both drivers remained at the location and arriving paramedics pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene.

The LBPD’s Collision Investigation Detail urged anyone with information regarding the crashes to call them at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222- 8477, or by visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

Long Beach Man, Former A/V Technician With Huntington Beach Union High School District, Arrested For Alleged Possession Of Child Porn

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 21:00:01 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — A man who used to work as an audio and visual technician for the Huntington Beach Union High School District has been arrested on suspicion of possessing child pornography.

(credit: Long Beach Police Department)

Randal Stevens, 53, of Long Beach, was arrested Monday on suspicion of possession of child sexual abuse material. His arrest comes after Long Beach police say they were tipped off in July of last year by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that there may be someone in the city in possession of child sexual abuse material.

Investigators identified Stevens as a possible suspect, and eventually served search warrants at his home in the 4200 block of East 4th Street, where police say they collected multiple pieces of evidence.

Police say Stevens, who previously worked as a contracted audio and visual technician with the Huntington Beach Union High School District, may have more victims. Anyone with information about Stevens can contact Long Beach police’s Computer Crimes Detail at (562) 570-7223.

Long Beach Unified’s Classified Workers Threaten Strike After Contract Talks Break Down

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:53:54 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Employees with the Long Beach Unified School District are threatening to go on strike after labor negotiations broke down.

(credit: CBS)

Dozens of workers protested Wednesday after the contract talks broke down. Employees say their salary hasn’t gone up since 2018.

District officials say they offered the union — which represents more than 2,500 classified employees – a competitive package in line with what was offered to teachers last year.

“That included a 5% raise, that 5% raise was declined,” district spokeswoman David Zaid said. “We believe that that was a fair amount.”

The California Schools Employees Association want a 7% pay raise and $2,200 in hazard pay.

“The money’s there, but help us. We’re in a bad economy right now, we need to be able to survive here,” said Gilbert Bonilla, Jr. of the CSEA.

Hearing For Long Beach School Officer Charged In Woman’s Shooting Death

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 18:01:19 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A hearing was scheduled Wednesday to determine if there is enough evidence to require a former Long Beach Unified School District safety officer to stand trial on a murder charge stemming from an 18-year-old woman’s fatal shooting last year.

Long Beach police at the scene of a fatal shooting by a Long Beach Unified School District safety officer on Sept. 27, 2021. (Brittany Murray/Long Beach Press-Telegram/Getty Images)

Eddie Gonzalez, who was fired by the LBUSD about a week after shooting Manuela “Mona” Rodriguez in the head on the afternoon of Sept. 27 as she sat inside a moving car, was charged a month later with her killing. He pleaded not guilty at a Dec. 8 court hearing.

Rodriguez was shot near Spring Street and Palo Verde Avenue, near Millikan High School, and was on life support until Oct. 5.

The woman, who was the mother of an infant son, was in the front passenger seat of a car that was being driven away from the scene of an altercation when the shooting occurred shortly after 3 p.m.

Then-Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna — who has since retired — said at the time that detectives determined the school safety officer was driving on patrol when he saw a physical altercation between Rodriguez and a 15- year-old girl occurring in the lanes of traffic.

Rodriguez was accompanied by a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy “whose level of participation is still under investigation,” according to the police chief.

When Rodriguez, the man and the boy attempted to flee in a four-door sedan, the school safety officer approached the car and discharged his weapon as the driver began driving away, Luna said.

“Mona was in the front passenger seat of the vehicle and was struck by the gunfire,” Luna said.

Video of the shooting posted online appears to show the officer firing at least two shots at the car.

Her family’s lawyer said her heart, lungs, liver and both kidneys were donated that day, saving the lives of five people.

Gonzalez has been in custody in lieu of $2 million bail since his arrest Oct. 27 by Long Beach police detectives in the city of Orange.

Multiple Convenience Stores Hit By Armed Robbers In Bellflower, Long Beach, Paramount

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 23:40:22 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – Authorities are investigating a spree of convenience store armed robberies which occurred in South Los Angeles County Monday night.

At least five robberies occurred in Bellflower, Long Beach and Paramount between 8 p.m. and midnight.

Surveillance video of armed robbers inside a Circle K store in Bellflower, Calif. Jan. 17, 2022. (LLN)

According to Long Beach police and the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, a Circle K was hit in Bellflower, along with a 7-Eleven store in Long Beach, a Ruby’s Liquor store in Long Beach, and another two 7-Eleven stores in Paramount.

According to the sheriff’s department, the Bellflower robbery occurred at 11:58 p.m. at a Circle K in the 17200 block of Downey Avenue. Three Black male suspects, possibly in their 30s, armed with a gun and wearing ski masks, entered the store and demanded cash from the register.

The suspects fled in a older white-colored four-door Mercedes.

The suspects in one of the 7-Eleven store robberies in Paramount — which took place at a store in the 8500 block of Alondra Boulevard — had a similar description.

Surveillance video of armed robbers inside a Circle K store in Bellflower. Jan. 17, 2022. (LLN)

Meanwhile, Long Beach police told CBSLA that cash was stolen in the two robberies that occurred in their city, at a 7-Eleven store located at Cherry and Artesia avenues at 8:05 p.m., and at Ruby’s Liquor, located at 5442 Del Amo Blvd., at around 11 p.m.

There were no injuries in either robbery, police said.

Police would not speculate as to whether the same suspects were responsible for all five robberies.

Both the sheriff’s department and Long Beach police are investigating. No arrests have yet been made.

Anyone with information was asked to contact the LASD Major Crimes Bureau at 562-946-7150. Anonymous tips can be called into Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or submitted online.

Employee Shot, Killed In Long Beach Bar; Gunman At Large

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:43:42 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – An employee was shot and killed by a customer following a dispute at a bar in Long Beach late Sunday night, authorities said.

The shooting occurred at 10:15 p.m. in the 1900 block of Willow Street, according to Long Beach police. It took place in a bar called the Crow’s Nest, the Long Beach Post reported.

According to police, a male customer got into a verbal altercation with a male employee. The customer then pulled out a gun and opened fire, striking him.

The victim was rushed by ambulance to a hospital, where he died, police said. His name was not immediately released.

The suspect was last seen running from the bar. A description was not immediately provided. It’s unclear if investigators had surveillance video of the shooting, or an identification for the suspect.

The details of the dispute that lead up to the shooting were not confirmed.

On Friday, Jan. 22, authorities arrested the gunman wanted in connection with the incident.

Missing Diver’s Body Recovered After Hours-Long Search

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 02:43:04 +0000

HUNTINGTON BEACH (CBSLA) — The body of a diver that disappeared was located after an hours-long search on Sunday.

The diver was reported missing at around 10:30 a.m., near the Elly Oil platform off the coast of Huntington Beach. Apparently the diver was part of a group that launched from Long Beach.

Multiple agencies gathered to search, including the Long Beach Fire Department and the United States Coast Guard, which began searching via air and then sea. The body was located at around 4 p.m., under nearly 200 feet of water and almost nine miles off the coast.

The body was transported back to shore via a Long Beach Fire Department ship, to meet with officials, including a representative from the Coroner’s Office.

The identity of the diver has yet to be disclosed, and it is currently unclear which diving group the person was a part of.

Pete Buttigieg Visits LA, Long Beach Ports To Discuss Cargo Logjam

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 17:56:55 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was visiting the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach Tuesday in order to meet with local leaders about the ongoing supply chain crisis.

FILE — A person fishes near container ships at the Port of Long Beach on Dec. 2, 2021, in Long Beach, Calif. (Getty Images)

Buttigieg was taking a boat tour of the ports and then was set to hold a news conference with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia.

The trip comes one day after California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a plan to invest $2.3 billion in California ports as part of his proposed state budget.

“Our supply chain challenges require both near-term and long-term solutions. I applaud Gov. Newsom for meeting the moment with bold leadership,” Port of L.A. Executive Director Gene Seroka said in a statement Monday. “The Governor’s budget allocates $2.3 billion for ports to address bottlenecks in our supply chain, advance our efforts to decarbonize the freight system, and ensure a robust and resilient workforce continues to move goods on behalf of the state and nation.”

Dozens of cargo ships have been anchored offshore from the ports of L.A. and Long Beach for months, leading to a supply chain crisis nationwide. The logjam is due partly to the shortage of warehouse workers and truck drivers to pick up goods.

Representatives for the ports said Monday that there are 12 ships waiting at anchor within 40 miles of the San Pedro Port Complex, and another 93 ships are waiting further off the coast or still approaching the ports.

Once the ships are unloaded, however, it has lead to a new litany of problems, with surrounding neighborhoods being used for storage, trucks idling for hours in residential streets and even property damage.

In October, President Joe Biden announced the Port of L.A. would begin operating 24/7, a move that had already been made at the Port of Long Beach. At the time, there were about 70 ships waiting to get into one of the ports.

The ports changed its queuing process, now allowing ships leaving Asia to get in line upon departure, which allows ships to no longer race to get to the ports and instead are anchoring outside the region’s air quality basin as they wait for their turn to enter the port complex.

The ports also announced fee on companies which have import containers linger at marine terminals, but the fee has been repeatedly delayed due to progress reducing the number of containers, with the ports announcing on Monday a 45% combined decline in aging cargo since the fee was announced on Oct. 25. The policy to implement fees was developed in coordination with the Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Port of Long Beach and supply chain stakeholders.

New COVID-19 Testing Sites Open In City Of Industry, Long Beach

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 19:49:00 +0000

CITY OF INDUSTRY (CBSLA) — With demand high for COVID-19 testing, new sites are opening Monday in Long Beach and the City of Industry.

(credit: CBS)

A line of cars formed at the Industry Hills Expo Center on Temple Avenue even before Total Testing Solutions had finished setting up to open at 8:30 a.m.

The new site, a partnership between the City of Industry and Supervisor Hilda Solis, will feature multiple lanes for drive-thru testing and will have the capacity to provide dual COVID-19 PCR and Influenza A & B tests for up to 1,000 vehicles. The Industry Hills Expo Center testing site will be open Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Jan. 31. Appointments are strongly encouraged and can be made online at www.totaltestingsolutions.com.

The City of Long Beach is also streamlining its testing and vaccination capacity by opening a new, larger-drive thru and walk-up clinic in the former Boeing parking lot near 3590 E. Wardlow Road. With this addition, the city will transition its Long Beach City College and Pacific Coast campus sites to vaccine-only sites.

Long Beach public health officials say their current positivity rate is 25.8%, with 202.4 cases per 100,000 people – the highest the city has seen since the pandemic began.

Additionally, the city will restrict its Cabrillo High School testing site to Long Beach Unified School District students, faculty, and staff.

“Our top priority is keeping our schools open,” Long Beach Unified Superintendent Jill A. Baker said. “The positive impact that in-person learning has on our students cannot be overstated. The best way to keep our schools open is to ensure students and staff have access to vaccines and testing.”

To make an appointment at a Long Beach testing site, visit longbeach.gov or call (562) 570-4636.

Two Wounded In Long Beach Drive-By Shooting

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 00:08:00 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Long Beach Police Department detectives are investigating a drive-by shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday.

The shooting, which took place on East 14th Street just after 6:30 a.m., when a vehicle approached two teenage boys standing outside of a multi-unit residence. According to the LBPD report, an unknown number of suspects opened fire on them.

Both boys, aged 15 and 16, respectively, were transported to a hospital for treatment. Both suffered non-life threatening gunshot wounds.

When authorities arrived on scene, they found multiple shell casings, and gunfire damage to the residence.

Body Found Burned On Top Of Pallet Near Freeway Connector Road In Long Beach

Sat, 08 Jan 2022 14:32:20 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A body was found burned on top of a pallet near a freeway connector road in Long Beach Saturday morning, authorities said.

Officers responded at 1:46 a.m. to the connector road of the Artesia (91) Freeway and the northbound Long Beach (710) Freeway where they found the victim, the California Highway Patrol reported.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, and on Sunday authorities ruled the death a homicide.

An arson investigator with the Long Beach Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 6:33 a.m. and a representative from the coroner’s office was called out to the location at 6:48 a.m.

The CHP urged anyone with information regarding the death to call them at (323) 644-9550.

Man Shot In Chest During Robbery In Long Beach

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 03:25:06 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Long Beach Police Department officers were seeking public help in locating a suspect involved in a shooting that took place in Long Beach on Wednesday.

Reported just after 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening, the incident took place in the area of Long Beach Boulevard and 14th Street.

A Long Beach Police report indicated that the victim, who was shot in the chest during a robbery, was approached by three suspects, one of which was armed with a handgun.

According to the report, the wound the man sustained was not life-threatening, but still required medical attention as the man drove himself to the hospital following the confrontation.

Authorities are looking for any information on the suspects involved.

Woman Found Dead In SUV In Long Beach

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 15:11:00 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Police are investigating the possible murder of a woman found shot dead in an SUV Monday morning.

Long Beach Police Department first responded to the call at about 7:22 a.m. after firefighters from Long Beach Fire Department called for assistance with a gunshot victim.

Officers arrived at the scene in the 1300 block of West 16th Street to find a woman who was shot in the upper body. The victim was in the front area of the SUV, however, authorities did not specify if she was seated on the driver or passenger’s side.

She was declared dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner—Coroner’s Office determined that the woman, identified on Monday as 34-year-old Guadalupe Ruiz, was in her thirties.

Homicide detectives are currently investigating the shooting. No motive is known at this time and it is unclear if police have a suspect.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting is asked to call detectives at (562) 570-7244. People can anonymously submit tips through the L.A. Crime Stoppers website here, or by calling (800) 222-7244 as well as through the mobile app “P3 Tips.”

Rescued Baby Sea Otter Settles Into New Home At Aquarium Of The Pacific In Long Beach

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 21:58:51 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — A baby sea otter that was found orphaned off Pismo Beach has a new home at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.

(credit: Aquarium of the Pacific)

The 14-week-old southern sea otter was found by Marine Mammal Center’s trained responders, who determined the orphaned pup could not survive on his own in the wild. The Aquarium of the Pacific, which participates in the Sea Otter Surrogacy program, stepped up to offer the pup a new home.

The pup has since been receiving round-the-clock care, which includes feeding him every one to three hours. He has been residing with one of the aquarium’s female sea otters, officials said, and is looking healthier and gaining weight.

“When he arrived at the aquarium a few weeks ago, he weighed about 10 pounds,” Brett Long, the aquarium’s curator of marine mammals and birds, said in a statement. “He is eating well and is now up to 16 pounds.”

The sea otter pup – who doesn’t seem to have a name yet — will officially join the aquarium’s other sea otter residents in the main habitat on Dec. 28.

(credit: Aquarium of the Pacific)

The pup’s arrival gives aquarium staff working with the Sea Otter Surrogacy program a chance to learn more about caring for orphaned pups. The program pairs resident otters with orphans so they can teach them skills to survive in the wild. The Aquarium of the Pacific is building its new surrogacy area at its Molina Care Center, with a goal of caring for up to four rescued sea otter pups every year.

“Staff interaction with the orphaned otters in the surrogacy program will need to be minimal, and staff will need to wear special suits that distort the human form so these pups have a better chance at surviving in the wild,” Long said.

California’s sea otters were hunted to near extinction in the early 1900s and are now a protected species. The population has grown from 50 in 1938 to nearly 3,000 today, but their population growth has stalled due to factors like oil spills, pollution, and climate change, according to the aquarium.

Drunk Driver Pursuit Ends With Boxed-In Vehicle In Hawaiian Gardens

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 05:15:17 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – Huntington Beach Police were in pursuit of a suspected drunk driver in a stolen vehicle on Sunday.

Police vehicles surrounding a vehicle wanted in a pursuit on Sunday evening. (Photo Credit: Sky2 Chopper, CBS2 News)

The pursuit began in Huntington Beach, before the driver led authorities through Bellflower and into Long Beach.

Five police vehicles surrounded the vehicle off the side of a residential road in Hawaiian Gardens.

Authorities were searching the vehicle after the driver was taken into custody.

This is a developing story. Check back for details.

Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia To Run for Congress

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 19:18:08 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – Democratic Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia is running for Congress, he announced Friday.

FILE — Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia speaking at Long Beach City College on the final day of campaigning for Gov. Gavin Newsom against the recall in Long Beach on Sept. 13, 2021. (Brittany Murray/Long Beach Press-Telegram/Getty Images)

The 44-year-old Garcia will be running for the seat that is being vacated by Rep. Alan Lowenthal, who announced Thursday he is retiring from Congress when his term ends in 2022.

Garcia has served as mayor of Long Beach since 2014. He is the first Latino and openly gay mayor in the city’s history.

Garcia’s mother and stepfather both died of COVID-19 weeks apart in the early months of the pandemic.

Considered a rising star in the Democratic party, Garcia took part in the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in August of 2020.

“My mom brought me to this country and risked everything so that I could become an American,” Garcia said in a video posted to social media. “She came here never doubting that America was a place where her immigrant son could succeed. That’s why today, I am fighting for every kid to get the same shot that this country gave me.”

Long Beach Rep. Alan Lowenthal To Retire From Congress After Term Ends

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 20:13:58 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – Democratic U.S. Rep. Alan Lowenthal, who represents Long Beach, will not seek re-election to Congress next year, he announced Thursday.

“I am announcing today that I will not be running for reelection to Congress in 2022,” the 80-year-old Lowenthall said in a statement.

Rep. Alan Lowenthal speaks during a press conference held at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center on the Cal State Long Beach campus, alongside, Governor Newsom, and local politicians, in Long Beach on March 3, 2021.(Brittany Murray/Long Beach Press-Telegram/Getty Images)

Lowenthal has represented California’s 47th District since 2012. The district encompasses portions of eastern Los Angeles and western Orange counties.

Lowenthal serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

His long political career began as a member of the Long Beach City Council in 1992. He then served in the California State Assembly from 1998 to 2004, and the California State Senate from 2004 to 2012.

His ex-wife Bonnie Lowenthal also served on the Long Beach City Council and in the California Assembly. His daughter-in-law Suja Lowenthal served on Long Beach’s city council and school board, and is currently the city manager of Hermosa Beach.

102-Year-Old Long Beach Woman Hit, Killed By Rolling Car

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 19:40:07 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A 102-year-old woman died after being struck by a rolling car in the driveway of her Long Beach home Thursday afternoon.

At around 3:40 p.m., Helen Morris was sitting in a rolling walker on the sidewalk outside her home, in the 4500 block of Tolbert Avenue, when an unattended car in the driveway began to roll backwards and struck her, family members told Long Beach police.

Family members halted the vehicle and then provided medical aid to Morris until paramedics arrived on scene, police said.

She was rushed by ambulance to a hospital, where she died.

Police are unsure what exactly caused the car to roll. Morris’ family member who is believed to have been the last person to operate the car is cooperating with investigators.

Long Beach Police Suspends Officer Maxwell Schroeder For ‘Biased And Prejudiced’ Comments In Torrance Racist Texts Scandal

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 16:34:55 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — A Long Beach police officer who was identified as one of more than a dozen who exchanged racist text messages with his colleagues in Torrance has been suspended, officials said Friday.

Officer Maxwell Schroeder, a former Torrance police recruit who has been with the Long Beach Police Department since 2016, has been suspended for “comments that were biased and prejudiced in nature.”

Long Beach police says it was notified on Aug. 19 about biased and prejudiced remarks made by Schroeder in electronic communications with a non-LBPD employee. An internal administrative investigation was immediately launched, and the officer, identified as Schroeder, was reassigned to desk assignment, a statement from the department said.

Since August, Long Beach police says it has acquired additional evidence and if internal affairs investigators interviewed Schroeder. Because of the serious nature of the allegations and based on a preliminary review of the evidence of investigation, the decision was made to suspend Schroeder.

“This department does not tolerate biased or prejudicial behavior by any employee – this officer’s actions do not reflect the morals held by our officers who engage with our diverse community,” Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna said in a statement.

Schroeder was most recently assigned to field support, and Long Beach police say previous use-of-force incidents and arrest reports made by Schroeder are also under review.

Schroeder was identified by the Los Angeles Times as one of the more than a dozen police officers who have exchanged racist, homophobic, and anti-Semitic texts and images for years. The texts and images surfaced during an investigation into two Torrance police officers who have been charged with vandalizing an impounded vehicle with a swastika, and the California Attorney General Rob Bonta earlier this week launched an independent review into the Torrance Police Department.

Long Beach Confirms First Case Of Omicron; Patient Had Recently Traveled Internationally

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:57:00 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — Another case of Omicron has been confirmed by the Long Beach Health Department, officials announced Tuesday.

Public health officials say they received confirmation Monday of Long Beach’s first case of COVID-19 with mutations consistent with the Omicron variant. The case involved a fully vaccinated person who had returned to Long Beach on Nov. 29 after an international trip.

The trip was not to the South African region, health officials said. Omicron was first detected by scientists in South Africa and has since been confirmed on every continent except Antarctica.

Los Angeles County public health officials say they have confirmed three cases of Omicron, and it’s unclear if the Long Beach case in one of those cases. Each case so far has involved fully vaccinated people who have traveled recently.

“As of now, the impact of Omicron is not fully known, but everyone is urged to reduce COVID-19 transmission by getting vaccinated or boosted, wearing masks indoors and at large outdoor events, and by getting tested when feeling sick or if exposed to COVID-19,” Long Beach public health officials said in a statement.

The Omicron variant is believed to be more contagious, but public health officials believe the vaccines currently available still provide protection. The Delta variant remains the dominant strain of COVID-19 in Long Beach.

Youth Volleyball Coach Held On Suspicion Of Sexual Battery Against Minor In Long Beach

Sat, 04 Dec 2021 21:50:38 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A-29-year-old youth volleyball coach has been arrested on suspicion of multiple counts of sexual battery and sexual crimes against a minor, Long Beach police said Saturday.

A female juvenile contacted police on Nov. 30 to report that she had been inappropriately touched by Jerod Curtis of Carson, who was working as a massage therapist in the 5800 block of Naples Avenue, the Long Beach Police Department reported.

Curtis is also suspected in two sexual batteries involving adult female victims, which occurred in July and November, police said.

He was arrested Friday and was being held at the Long Beach City Jail on $225,000 bail.

Police detectives urged anyone who may know of more alleged victims to call them at 562-570-7321 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – Plans for a new aquatic center at a Long Beach high school include a gender-neutral locker room.

Wilson High’s $23 million project has one planned locker room facility that would be used by all students.

The floor plan for the locker room includes private, individual shower and changing stalls.

Administrators said the locker room will benefit gender-diverse students, as well as students with disabilities. Critics of the new locker room facility said, however, that it will create safety issues.

Woman Killed In Fiery Single-Vehicle Crash In Long Beach

Sat, 27 Nov 2021 18:18:46 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) – A woman smashed her car into a freeway sign near the 405 Freeway in Long Beach and was killed, authorities said Saturday.

The woman was driving a 2012 Chrysler 300 southbound on Lakewood Boulevard at a little after 9 p.m. Friday when it crashed into the sign and guardrail for the ramp onto the freeway, the Long Beach Police Department reported.

Police and firefighters were dispatched to the scene, where they saw the Chrysler engulfed in flames. The woman, the lone occupant inside the car, was pronounced dead at the scene.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

The LBPD’s Collision Investigation Detail asked anyone with information regarding the crash to call them at 562-570-7355 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

Cal State University Expands Program Lending Apple iPads To Incoming Freshmen, Transfer Students

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 23:32:03 +0000

LONG BEACH (CBSLA) — California State University is expanding a program that distributes discounted devices to its incoming and transfer students to more campuses this coming spring semester.

(credit: Cal State University)

CSUCCESS, which stands for California State University Connectivity Contributing To Equity And Student Success, was launched in Fall 2021 at the university system’s Bakersfield, Channel Islands, Fresno, Humboldt, Los Angeles, Maritime Academy, Northridge, and San Marcos campuses. Under the program, eligible incoming first-year and new transfer students can request a technology bundle that includes a new iPad Air, Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot that includes an unlimited data plan from a national carrier.

In the first phase of the program, more than 22,700 students – half of whom receive Pell Grants and nearly a third of whom are the first in their families to pursue a bachelor’s degree – received devices under CSUCCESS.

“Phase One of CSUCCESS was well-received by our students and the program shows tremendous promise in advancing our goals of student success and educational equity,” CSU Chancellor Joseph I. Castro said in a statement.

The program was launched to help students who reported difficulties accessing quality devices and reliable internet during the pandemic. Its second phase this spring will expand to CSU’s campuses in Dominguez Hills, Fullerton, Long Beach, Pomona, San Bernardino, and Sonoma.

Students who receive this iPad bundle will be able to keep them for the entirety of their undergraduate time at CSU. University officials say this is the largest device distribution of its kind in the country.

“Reliable, modern technology builds a foundation for achievement and can transform opportunities for our students statewide,” Castro said.

Historic Long Beach Hospital To Close Emergency Department

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:29:29 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – A nearly 100-year-old hospital in Long Beach will shutter its emergency department this month.

FILE — Officials hold a grand reopening celebration for Community Hospital Long Beach in Long Beach on May 27, 2021. A vintage 1929 fire truck, same year the hospital originally opened, was on display for the event. (Brittany Murray/Long Beach Press-Telegram/Getty Images)

Community Hospital Long Beach (CHLB) announced Tuesday that it will phase out its emergency department and acute care services over the next week.

Beginning Wednesday, Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency closed CHLB to 911 ambulance dispatches.

Then, on the morning of Nov. 24, the emergency department will close to all walk-ins and visitors.

Molina, Wu, Network LLC — the nonprofit healthcare group which has been operating the CHLB since it leased it from the city in December of 2019 — indicated the closure was due to staffing issues.

“Available staffing for acute care units has become increasingly challenging,” MWN said in a news release Tuesday. “In addition, several nurse registry staffing agencies have indicated their intent to cease providing services to Community Hospital Long Beach, effective this current month.”

CHLB first opened back in 1924. It was controversially closed in 2018 when its then-operator determined a state-mandated seismic retrofit was too expensive.

It partially reopened in January of 2021 to help neighboring hospitals which were stressed by the influx of COVID-19 patients. It then fully reopened in May.